Melbourne Official Visitors Guide - Spring 2018

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE

Melbourne Spring 2018

Lush Life

Spring in Melbourne’s parks

Fast Times

Racing’s biggest season

Festival Fun

Fashion, music and more

Live his journey

OPENS 22 SEPT. MELBOURNE MUSEUM

BOOK NOW AT

12 Melbourne Music Week

22 Do it now: plans

to suit everyone 26 Chef Scott Pickett shows us his favourite places

Inside 4

Welcome to Melbourne

6

What’s On

8

Melbourne's Spring Fling

16 Love the Laneways

18 Melbourne Laneways Map

20 Welcome to the Neighbourhood

22

Itineraries

26 My Melbourne with Scott Pickett

28

Shop

42

Eat & Drink

53

Arts & Culture

66

See & Do

92

Neighbourhoods

98 Melbourne Neighbourhoods Map

105 Regional Victoria

114 Regional Victoria Map 116 V/ Line Network Map

123 Useful Information

130 Melbourne Tram Network Map

132 Victorian Train Network Map

136 Traveller Tips

37 Market forces:

Melbourne’s best shopping

140 Frequently Asked Questions

142 Advertiser Index

143 Accommodation Index

144 Inner Melbourne Map

146 Melbourne City Map

149 Spring Coupons

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Message from the Minister

on the Heart-stopping sport and fashion and field combine with the best in arts culture this spring. g Racing There’s nothing like the iconic Sprin e Cup – ourn Melb the by lined head Carnival the race that stops a nation. during Footy season reaches fever pitch s.

Serie s Final AFL the action-packed g casin show e, ourn to Melb MoMA at NGV comes exclusively ourne Melb The and ture sculp and art the best contemporary ram of thoughtFestival delivers an outstanding prog provoking experiences. spring. I invite everyone to Victoria has the best of everything this our state has to offer. best the enjoy and ities festiv embrace the The Hon. John Eren MP r Events Minister for Tourism and Majo

Message from the Lord Mayor With warmer days and plenty of sunshine, Melbourne is in full bloo m in spring.

Our city’s events calendar is jam-packed: fashionistas can frock up for Melbourne Fashion Week, cultu re vultures can head to MoMA at NGV: 130 years of Modern and Contemporary Art, while Melbourne Fringe Festi val and Melbourne Music Week will surprise and delig ht.

For the sports lovers, footy fans can don their team colours for the AFL Grand Final, and then there’s the race that stops the nation, the Melb ourne Cup. Check out our What’s On website for events on around town. And, we would love to see you enjoying our city: share your experiences by tagging #melbmoment on social media.

Sally Capp Lord Mayor

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Welcome to Melbourne

Welcome to

Melbourne

Visitors to Melbourne are spoiled for choice with sporting spectacles, arts and culture attractions, stylish shopping, beautiful arcades and laneways, and picturesque public parks.

Outdoors

Within the leafy city limits there are beautiful botanical gardens and public parks.

Explore Port Phillip Bay’s sheltered beaches, take a boat cruise on the Yarra River or follow a walking track along the water’s edge.

Food & Wine

Melbourne is renowned for its flair for food, acclaimed chefs and cool bar scene.

The city boasts more than 3,000 restaurants, cafes and bars representing about 75 different ethnic cuisines.

Shopping

Melbourne is a favourite destination for those with a passion for fashion. The city’s shopping precincts cater to all tastes and budgets with luxe designer boutiques, large department stores and local artisan markets.

Chin Chin

Sport

Melbourne lives and breathes sport. A jam-packed calendar of high-profile sporting events runs year round, with spectators able to get up close to the action at our world-class arenas.

Arts & Culture

From grand theatres, museums and galleries to laneway street art and vibrant cultural festivals, Melbourne is the place to get your fix of art, design, music and live shows.

5 5

Melbourne Music Week

What’s

on On Now Until 2 September

Melbourne Writers Festival

Various locations across Melbourne w mwf.com.au Until 7 September

Melbourne Fashion Week

Various locations across Melbourne w melbourne.vic.gov.au/mfw Until 7 October

Wonderland ACMI w acmi.net.au

Until 7 October

MoMA at NGV: 130 Years of Modern and Contemporary Art NGV International w ngv.vic.gov.au

Until 28 January

Baldessin/Whiteley: Parallel Visions

NGV Australia, Federation Square w ngv.vic.gov.au

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Melbourne Festival Stephen Rhall

Every Sunday

St Kilda Esplanade Market

The Esplanade, St Kilda w stkildaesplanademarket.com.au

Melbourne Fashion Week

22 September – 2 October

Royal Melbourne Show Melbourne Showgrounds w royalshow.com.au From 22 September

September 1–2 September

Melbourne Esports Open

Melbourne & Olympic Park w melbourneesportsopen.com.au 6–22 September

2018 Toyota AFL Finals Series

Melbourne Cricket Ground and Etihad Stadium w afl.com.au/finals 13–30 September

Melbourne Fringe

Various locations across Melbourne w melbournefringe.com.au 18–29 September

Spartacus

Arts Centre Melbourne w australianballet.com.au

Mandela My Life: The Exhibition

Melbourne Museum w mandelamylifeexhibition.com 27 September – 31 October

The Architect

The Sumner, Southbank Theatre w mtc.com.au/the-architect 29 September

2018 Toyota AFL Grand Final

Melbourne Cricket Ground w afl.com.au/finals

October 3–7 October

Queensland Balletʼs A Midsummer Nightʼs Dream Her Majesty’s Theatre w queenslandballet.com.au

Melbourne Fringe Festival

Welcome to Melbourne

Above: Glitter and Snatch, Post Apocolyptic Body-Slam, Melbourne Fringe 2017.

Photo by Theresa Harrison.

Melbourne Cup Carnival

3–21 October

Melbourne Festival

Various locations across Melbourne w festival.melbourne

For more information on what’s happening in Melbourne whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au From 31 October

10 November – 6 January

Her Majesty’s Theatre w au.schoolofrockthemusical.com

Bourke Street Mall w myer.com.au

School of Rock: The Musical

6 October

WWE Super Show-Down Melbourne Cricket Ground w wwe.com/wwe-super-show-down 20 October

Stella Artois Caulfield Cup Day

Caulfield Racecourse w mrc.racing.com/calendar 26–28 October

Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit w motogp.com.au 27 October

Ladbrokes Cox Plate Day

November 3–4 November

The Lost Lands

Werribee Park and Mansion w thelostlands.com.au

Melbourne Music Week Various venues across Melbourne w melbourne.vic.gov.au/mmw 21–25 November

Melbourne World Cup of Golf

The Metropolitan Golf Club w pgatour.com

Flemington Racecourse w flemington.com.au/ melbournecupcarnival

30 November – 25 December

Melbourne Cup Carnival

5 November

Melbourne Cup Parade Swanston Street w flemington.com.au 7–24 November

27–28 October

State Theatre, Arts Centre Melbourne w opera.org.au/melbourne

Hisense Arena w fast5worldseries.com.au

16–24 November

3–10 November

Moonee Valley Racecourse w thevalley.com.au/cox-plate-carnival

Fast5 Netball World Series

Myer Christmas Windows

La Bohème

Christmas Festival

Various venues across Melbourne w whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au

Looking Ahead 5–30 December

Evita

State Theatre, Arts Centre Melbourne w opera.org.au/melbourne

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Melbourne’s

Spring Fling

The weather’s heating up and so are excitement levels as epic events and fascinating festivals fill the calendar.

And They’re Racing

The thundering of hooves on turf, glamorous fashion and a party atmosphere can mean only one thing: the Melbourne Cup Carnival (3–10 November) has arrived. Flemington Racecourse hosts four huge days of thoroughbred racing, beginning with AAMI Victoria Derby Day (3 November) before the race that stops a nation on Lexus Melbourne Cup Day (6 November). Get ready for racing at the Melbourne Cup Parade on

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Swanston Street (5 November), then prep for the big day. There are plenty of options: a party in the Flemington car park, being one of thousands of fans trackside, watching celebs at the Birdcage, or attending a lunch in the city.

When the winner has been celebrated, there are still more race days to enjoy: Kennedy Oaks Day (8 November) and Stakes Day (10 November). w flemington.com.au/ melbournecupcarnival

Melbourne Cup Carnival

The Carnival Begins

Before the focus shifts to Flemington, feel the thrill of Moonee Valley’s Cox Plate Carnival (26–27 October). It begins with the Manikato Stakes, Australia’s richest race under lights. The next day, it’s the WS Cox Plate, and everyone is excited

by Winx’s scheduled return. This champion mare has won the past three Cox Plates and a fourth will cement her place in history. w thevalley.com.au/cox-platecarnival

On The Roof Before or after the big event, make the most of the warm weather at a rooftop bar.

01 Good Heavens

Welcome to Melbourne

Sunshine, good times and 80s-inspired cocktails… You’ll get them all here. Try the Pretty in Pink, a blend of gin, Aperol and fresh citrus. w goodheavens.com.au

02 Sweetie & Moustache

Cocktails and crepes are the order of the day at this dessert lounge and rooftop bar. Layered mille crepe cakes, in a dozen flavours, are the specialty.

AFL

Caulfield Class

One of the most important lead-up events to the Melbourne Cup is the Stella Artois Caulfield Cup (20 October). It’s the world’s richest turf handicap over 2,400 metres and attracts the best from around the globe. There’s plenty happening off the track, too. The Style Stakes, delicious dishes, the finest drinks and marquee action are a huge part of the day. w mrc.racing.com/calendar

The Finals Countdown

For five months, 18 teams from across the nation have vied for supremacy in the AFL homeand-away season. Now, it’s the business end of the year, with the best eight teams polishing their skills while their fans dream of glory. The 2018 Toyota AFL Finals Series (31 August – 22 September) takes place at arenas

in most states, but the MCG and Etihad Stadium in Melbourne and GMHBA Stadium in Geelong are where you can catch the action in Victoria.

w sweetiemoustache.com

w afl.com.au/finals

Footy’s Big Dance

These two teams have slugged it out since March, beating all others to get to the 2018 Toyota AFL Grand Final (29 September).

The MCG will be packed with supporters, and millions more will watch it on television. The day before, join the Grand Final Parade (28 September), when fans line Spring Street and Wellington Parade to cheer on the players.

You’re unlikely to score a ticket to the game, but join the fun watching the action on Federation Square’s big screen. w afl.com.au/finals

Waterside Hotel

03 Waterside Hotel

Enjoy skyline views at this relaxed venue, where there’s a good selection of beer, wine and cocktails, as well as tasty pub dishes. w watersidehotel.com.au

04 Goldilocks

Stare out over the city as you peruse the drinks list. The cocktails here are inventive and, most importantly, delicious. w goldilocksbar.com.au

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The Style Files

Ready to update your look?

This is the city’s biggest fashion event and one that introduces the latest looks for the coming season. Melbourne Fashion Week (until 7 September) features a jam-packed program of runway shows at Melbourne Town Hall, street runways, creative workshops, stunning exhibitions and fashion seminars. The country’s leading designers will be there, presenting their newseason collections. But this is also where you’ll discover the brightest up-and-comers, ready to take the fashion world by storm. If you want to be ahead in the style stakes there is no other place to be this spring.

Melbourne Fashion Week

w melbourne.vic.gov.au/mfw

Finishing Touches

As spring racing looms on the calendar, there is one creative profession that experiences a boom. A hat is a must-have trackside, so milliners are busy blocking felt, stitching flowers and fitting them to customers’ heads. Louise Macdonald Millinery has been topping the outfits of Melbourne’s most fashionable for 30 years. Either have your dream creation made for you or choose from the ready-to-wear line. Need more styles to check out? The work of Phillip Rhodes is so good it’s made the NGV’s permanent collection, and Marea Bright once worked with the Queen’s personal milliner. w millinery.com.au w philliprhodes.com.au w mareabright.com.au

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Melbourne Fashion Week

Local Talent Take a reminder of your visit home when you buy a piece from a Melbourne designer.

Welcome to Melbourne

Collins Street

Hot-spot Shopping

Update your wardrobe with the latest in style at some of the city’s chic shopping precincts. For high-end luxury brands — Prada, Hermès, Gucci and more — head to the eastern end of Collins Street. If Australian labels are more your thing, Emporium Melbourne has the largest offering in one spot in the whole country. Jump on the Fashion Shuttle from Federation Square to Melbourne’s favourite mega-mall, Chadstone, where there are more than 500 retailers under one roof. w collinstreet.com.au w emporiummelbourne.com.au w chadstone.com.au

Time to Relax

All that retail therapy can be exhausting. Take some time out to either relax with a soothing massage, body treatment or facial at glamorous Miss Fox. If you prefer to soak away the sore muscles, try Onsen Ma, a serene Japanese bathhouse in the heart of the CBD. w missfox.com.au w onsenma.com.au For more fashion and shopping inspiration, see the Shop section on page 28.

Kuwaii

01 Design a Space

Emerging designers are offered short-term spaces in this gallery-style store, meaning there’s always something new to try on. w designaspace.com.au

02 Habbot

Annie Abbot designs stylish shoes, boots, sandals and sneakers at her studio in Collingwood then has them made in Italy.

There’s also a customised line available. w habbotstudios.com

03 Kuwaii

This locally designed, ethical range of women’s clothing, footwear and accessories offers cool, classic styles in fashionable colourways. w kuwaii.com.au

04 Lois Hazel

After training in Paris, Lois McGruer-Fraser launched her label of gorgeous ethical clothing in 2015. Hollywood star Emma Watson is a fan.

Available at Preap & Coutts. w preapandcoutts.com

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Share Your Melbourne Moment

Tag #melbmoment to share your favourite city experiences with others.

Melbourne Fringe

Melbourne Festival

Creative Culture

Some of the most innovative performers from around the globe will light up the stages at the Melbourne Festival (3–21 October). The program, which takes place across the city, will feature all forms of artistic expression, including dance, theatre, music and more. One of the highlights will be Mark Morris Dance Group and Silkroad Ensemble’s co-production of Layla and Manjun, which debuted more than a century ago as the Middle East’s first opera.

Melbourne Music Week

An Arty Party

If you’re looking for diversity in a line-up you can’t go past the exciting program from Melbourne Fringe (13–30 September).

Whether you’re up for a good laugh, a song or world premiere performance, there’s comedy, dance, cabaret or a theatre production — plus a whole lot more — to be enjoyed. Check the program for the many free events held during this fun fortnight. w melbournefringe.com.au

w festival.melbourne

Opposite, top left: Costume worn by AC/DC guitarist Angus Young, c.1973, Arts Centre Melbourne, Australian Performing Arts Collection.

Opposite, bottom: Hat worn by Ian ‘Molly’ Meldrum, c.1991, Arts Centre Melbourne, Australian Performing Arts Collection

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The Beat Goes On

Did you know Melbourne is the live music capital of the world?

There are more music venues per capita here than any other city — including New York and London — and about 73,000 gigs are performed at local venues each year. Celebrate the scene at Melbourne Music Week (16–24 November), which, unlike most other major music festivals, eschews big international names to showcase local talent. Gigs take place in unconventional spaces, as well as the city’s many bars, and include a wide variety of genres and experiences. Shake your groove thing at parties in laneways, watch musicians record new tracks or perhaps see the next big thing playing in a car park. w melbourne.vic.gov.au/mmw

In The Know

Gordon Blake He’s a mild-mannered engineer during the week, but after hours Gordon Blake plays guitar with Damian Cowell’s Disco Machine — a band that combines social commentary and electro beats — and is a multi-instrumentalist, singer and songwriter with psych folk outfit Vicuna Coat. After 16 years of gigging around Melbourne, Vicuna Coat will be playing songs from their new album at Northcote Social Club (28 September) in the lead up to the Grand Final.

Here are some of Gordon’s favourite places.

Bar

My local watering hole is The Thornbury Local.

It has live music, open mic nights and Trivia Tuesdays, which I co-host. It’s also good for random catch-ups in the beer garden.

Restaurant Australian Music Vault

Music History Revealed

Check out the story of Australia’s contemporary music scene at the Australian Music Vault. Located at Arts Centre Melbourne, this free gallery uses archival footage, memorabilia, costumes and more to explore the ground-breaking rock ’n’ rollers of the 1950s like Johnny O’Keefe, the punk and new wave movements, music and politics, and the careers of some of Australia’s biggest stars, including Kylie Minogue and Nick Cave. Make your own playlist while you’re there or listen to the Sound As Ever podcast when you get home. w australianmusicvault.com.au

Australian Music Vault

We’ve been going to Ha Long Bay on Victoria Street, Richmond, since 2005. Birthdays, catch-ups, bad day at work pick-me-ups — it’s always a winner.

Shop

Northcote has the country’s highest population of musicians and Echo Tone Guitars is a new store that sells old, odd, rare or simply functional guitars and amps.

Guilty Pleasure

The burgers, loaded fries and beers at American-style Kustom Burgers have saved me on many a Sunday.

View

We used to live in the worst accommodation — a pink, one-bedroom apartment — in the best location. Ruckers Hill on High Street, Northcote, looks back at the city. There are always photographers capturing the view and it gets packed on New Year’s Eve. Connect with Gordon’s bands at: /damiancowellmusic /vicunacoat

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Welcome to Melbourne

Above: Carbie Warbie

Melbourne musician

When Worlds Collide

In a work commissioned by the Melbourne Theatre Company, Linda Cropper stars as a seriously ill, yet fiercely independent woman who hires a carer when her husband has to travel overseas. In an act of defiance, she brings in the most unlikely candidate — a young, unqualified, homeless tradie. Aiden Fennessy’s The Architect examines what happens when worlds collide and lives implausibly intertwine. At the Southbank Theatre from 27 September to 31 October. w mtc.com.au/the-architect

The Architect

School’s In

It’s garnered rave reviews on Broadway and now Andrew Lloyd Webber’s production of School of Rock: The Musical (from 31 October) is coming to Melbourne’s Her Majesty’s Theatre. Based on the popular Jack Black movie, the role of Dewey Finn, the down-on-his-luck musician turned teacher, is being played on stage by Brent Hill. Plus, there’s an ensemble of 36 ridiculously talented young performers, aged nine to 13, playing the kids on a rotating basis. As well as the songs from the film, Lloyd Webber and lyricist Glenn Slater have added 14 originals to the stage version that is suitable for ages five and up. w au.schoolofrockthemusical.com

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School of Rock: The Musical

New Sensations Get a taste of the latest Melbourne has to offer at these recently opened eateries.

Welcome to Melbourne

Mandela My Life: The Exhibition

Love On Stage

Giacomo Puccini wrote La Bohème in 1895, but for the latest Opera Australia production, director Gail Edwards has chosen to move the drama to bohemian Berlin of the 1930s. The themes — romance in its many forms, from the first rush of passion to the realisation it may not last forever — are, of course, universal and timeless, and this glittering production is sure to take viewers on a journey of love and loss. See it at Arts Centre Melbourne from 7 to 24 November. w opera.org.au/melbourne

A Legend Examined

Anti-apartheid revolutionary, political prisoner, philanthropist, South African president… Nelson Mandela was all these things and so much more. In a world premiere, Mandela My Life: The Exhibition opens at Melbourne Museum on 22 September.

This comprehensive collection of artefacts and memorabilia will examine and share his great legacy to coincide with the centenary of his birth. w mandelamylifeexhibition.com For more cultural inspiration, see the Arts & Culture section on page 53.

Mjølner

01 Mjølner

Contemporary Scandinavian style meets Viking vibes at this hot spot, where beast, bird, fish and veggies are cooked using fire and coals. w mjolner.com.au

02 Sunda

The bold flavours of South-east Asia are combined with native Australian ingredients — muntries, finger limes, lemon myrtle and much more — at this Punch Lane crowd pleaser. w sunda.com.au

03 Ippudo

The famous Japanese noodle joint, renowned for Hakata ramen (rich pork broth with thin noodles), has finally arrived in Melbourne. w ippudo.com.au

04 Lobby Coffee & Wine

Simple fare suited to the time of day — bagels, salads and baked goods during daylight hours; nut, olives and cheese boards at night — are on the menu at this relaxed spot. f /lobbycoffeewine

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Love Laneways the

Explore Melbourne’s tiny streets and alleyways to find art, fashion, food and more.

Hosier Lane

At any time of day you’ll find people strolling this tiny cobblestoned street and admiring the ever-changing street art that covers the surrounding walls. Chances are you’ll want to spend some time taking photos of the stencils and murals.

And don’t forget to duck into Rutledge Lane, where the street art continues but the crowds thin. When you’re done, drop into Bar Tini — it’s modelled on a Spanish bodega, with vermouth on tap, montaditos (little open sandwiches) and tapas dishes. w bartini.com.au

Hosier Lane

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Word on the Street Jeremy (32) from Ballarat “When we head to Melbourne for the weekend, we always end up at ACDC Lane after dinner. Cherry Bar is the best spot in the city limits for music. Most times, there’ll be bands playing, but there are often great DJs, too — although they always play rock rather than dance.”

Welcome to Melbourne

w cherrybar.com.au

ACDC Lane

Postal Lane

Wedged between Myer and H&M on bustling Bourke Street Mall is this blink-and-you’llmiss-it laneway that’s perfect for when you need to refuel. Tuck into a plate of pasta or share a traditional pizza at Italian eatery Ca de Vin. Delve further to discover modern Vietnamese dishes with cocktails to match at Mama’s Buoi. w cadevin.com w mamasbuoi.com.au

Hardware Lane

There’s a certain European charm to this pedestrian thoroughfare.

It’s a little wider than many of Melbourne’s laneways, shaded by trees and lined with restaurants and bars. With the weather warming, head upstairs at Campari House to its rooftop.

Whether you’re thinking a long, lazy lunch or sunset drinks, it’s open every day. When you’re done with drinks, stroll to French Saloon to dine on classic bistro food like steak frites. w camparihouse.com.au w frenchsaloon.com

Degraves Street

There’s no way you can miss it. Opposite bustling Centre Place, Degraves Street is filled with tables, cafe umbrellas and the chattering masses enjoying coffee at all times. Get ready for the day at The Quarter, where classic breakfast dishes like French toast and omelettes are Ezard crowd pleasers. Get a Melbourne souvenir you can use for years at Crumpler, famous for its quirky yet sturdy messenger and laptop bags. More take-home treats can be found at Clementine’s, where locally produced gifts and fine food are the specialty. w thequarter.com.au w crumpler.com w clementines.com.au

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LA TR OBE ST

Sniders Ln

Drewery Ln

E LI Z AB ETH ST

Finlay Av

239

Caledonian Ln

Driver Ln

Emporium Melbourne

Postal Ln

259

01

Somerset Pl

Warburton Ln Rankins Ln

Racing Club Ln

Niagara Ln

Hardware Ln Hardware Ln

Lt Bourke St

Goldie Pl

w murmur.com.au

352

Drewery Pl

Melbourne Central

LON SDA LE ST Q UE E N ST

Grab a cocktail then join the other patrons gathered around the Yamaha baby grand piano singing pop songs and show tunes.

It’s the only bar of its kind in Melbourne.

Hardware St

Lt Lonsdale St

01 Murmur Piano Bar

WI LLI AM ST

Knox Pl

Melbourne Central Station

Guildford Ln

Bourke St Mall

Union Ln Howey Pl

Block Arc

Carson Pl

Equitable Pl

Dame Edna Pl

Presgrave

220

342

Manchester Ln

City Library

Scott Al

57

Centre Pl Degraves St

Flinders Ln

Fulham Pl

COLLIN S ST

Bond St

Immigration Museum

Block Pl

Lt Collins St

53

Market St

a 11 Gallaghers Place

The Walk Arc

Royal Arcade

Bank Pl

There’s street art on the exterior, Industry Beans coffee and a range of jaffles available, and a few tables made from recycled materials at this cute cafe in a transformed substation.

The Causeway

Bligh Pl

02 Kinship & Co

02

McKillop St

151

BOURK E ST

Cathedral Ar

FLIN DE RS ST

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Flinders St Station

E X H I B I TI O N ST

180

SWANSTON ST

S PRI NG ST

Laneways

R US S ELL ST

Albert Coates Ln

56

2

120

Windsor Pl

Designer Marietta Marlow uses both new and vintage fabrics to create limited-edition, hand-finished women’s fashions. Unique and stylish, they’re the sort of pieces that can be worn for years.

75

Alfred Pl

03 Blonde Venus

Meyers Pl

TRAMS

Melbourne Pl

Melbourne Town Hall

Parliament Station

Liverpool St

Punch Ln

03

Crossley St

153

Cohen Pl

Chinese Museum

Market Ln

Paynes Pl

Croft Al

Corrs Ln Coverlid Pl

Waratah Pl

180

Smythe Ln

Russell Pl

Rainbow Al

La Trobe Pl

Chinatown

Bullens Ln

Heffernan Ln

Celestial Av

Tattersalls Ln

Greek Precinct

St Paul’s Cathedral

Federation Square

Duckboard Pl

Malthouse Ln

Rutledge Ln

ACDC Ln

George Pde

a 3 Crossley Street

Oliver Ln

r

Red Cape Ln

Hosier Ln

0

State Library Victoria

Regent Pl

e Pl

Melbourne

Bennetts Ln

l

3 minutes’ walk per block

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Lygon Street, Carlton

Welcome to the Neighbourhood

Spend some time in Melbourne’s varied precincts to experience some real local flavour.

South Wharf

Use the afternoon to check out the bargains at DFO South Wharf, where there are outlet stores for labels from Armani to Victoria’s Secret. Then find a table in the sunshine at The Boatbuilders Yard, a great casual spot for burgers and beers overlooking the water. w dfo.com.au/south-wharf w theboatbuildersyard.com.au

Hopscotch

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North Melbourne and Kensington

Ever wanted to star in The Walking Dead? Get yourself to Zero Latency, where your team can fight the zombie invasion in a virtual reality game. If you survive, recover at White Rabbit Record Bar. Flip through the vinyl in the store, then tuck into simple snacks and jugs of sangria in the courtyard. w zerolatencyvr.com w whiterabbitrecords.com.au

Southbank

Stretching along the Yarra River, Southbank is the perfect spot for a stroll on a sunny afternoon.

This shopping, dining and entertainment precinct has something for everyone at any time of day. Grab a table where you can see the lights of the city skyline sparkle at Hopscotch, a microbrewery and bar. Treat yourself to a dinner of the finest Japanese fusion dishes at Nobu and, if you’re still looking for fun well after the sun has gone down, head to The Den, a subterranean playground featuring expertly crafted cocktails and rare whiskies. w hopscotchmelbourne.com.au w noburestaurants.com/ melbourne w theatlanticgroup.com.au

Docklands in a Day Set by the water, this intriguing neighbourhood has plenty of attractions.

Chinese Museum

w cargorestaurant.com.au

Midday There’s an amazing collection of public sculpture, including pieces

by Callum Morton and Reko Rennie, on the NewQuay Art Walk. Take a wander and check it out.

Cinema Nova, Carlton

Federation Square

Stroll around this architecturally designed precinct where you can watch entertainment on the main stage, stop for a Japanese lunch on the terrace at Chocolate Buddha, and explore the world of movies at ACMI (Australian Centre for the Moving Image). w chocolatebuddha.com.au w acmi.net.au

Lygon Street

Get into the Italian atmosphere at Tiamo, where lunch could consist of pizza or a simple pasta dish.

When you’re done, check out the latest arthouse movie at Cinema Nova. w tiamo.com.au w cinemanova.com.au

Melina on the Rooftop

Chinatown

Head to Melbourne institution Shark Fin House for a yum cha lunch you won’t forget. Steamed dumplings, sesame prawn and salted egg yolk buns are all on the roving trolleys. Afterwards, explore the heritage and culture of Chinese people in Australia at the Chinese Museum. w sharkfin.com.au w chinesemuseum.com.au

Greek Precinct

Anyone with a passion for Greek culture — both ancient and modern — should check out the Hellenic Museum. Then it’s time to tuck into some mezze, like saganaki prawns and zucchini and feta fritters, at Melina on the Rooftop.

w newquay.com.au

2pm Ready to shop? You’ll find plenty of Australian and international labels, including H&M, at The District Docklands. There are food options, too. w thedistrictdocklands. com.au

4pm Put yourself in the picture at ArtVo, an immersive, ‘trick art’ gallery.

If you’ve ever wanted a photo of yourself on safari or riding a big wave, this is the place. w artvo.com.au

6pm As the sun sets, climb into a car at Melbourne Star for an incredible view of the city. w melbournestar.com.au

w hellenic.org.au w melinaontherooftop.com.au

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Welcome to Melbourne

10am Start the day with an indulgent brunch — the waffles with banana and salted caramel are delicious — right on the waterfront at Cargo.

Abbotsford Convent

Itineraries Whatever your interests, we’ve designed an itinerary that uncovers the best of the city just for you.

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A Day with Kids

9am You’ll feel far out of the city at The Farm Cafe in Abbotsford, where hearty breakfasts and tiny temptations fill the family-friendly menu.

10.30am Let them pat the rabbits, help milk the cow and check the coop for eggs at the adjacent Collingwood Children’s Farm.

12.30pm There’s plenty to see at Melbourne

Museum, but be sure to take them to the museum’s Milarri Pond at 1.45pm when the short-finned eels are fed.

4.30pm Take a walk along the river to the

playground at Birrarung Marr, where they can burn off any remaining energy on the slides, climbing features and swings. w farmcafe.com.au w farm.org.au w museumsvictoria.com.au/melbournemuseum w brunetti.com.au Brunetti Lani Angele

Collingwood Children’s Farm

Caption credit

For the Wine Lover

4pm There are more than 600 different types of wine on the shelves at Port Melbourne’s Harry & Frankie.

Sit at the bar for glasses of Yarra Valley pinot grigio, Gippsland pinot noir and whatever else you might fancy. There’s also delicious food, like plates of charcuterie and cheese to have on the side. Before you go, pick a bottle of wine to take with you.

7pm Bring your creativity to the fore at South Melbourne’s Cork & Canvas, a two-hour art class where you’re encouraged to arrive with wine.

Each class is themed and there are even Paint Your Mate nights.

Caption Cork & Canvas credit

w harryandfrankie.com.au w corkandcanvas.com.au

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Itineraries

3pm Catch the tram to Flinders Lane where you can refuel with coffee (for you), hot chocolate (for them), slices of pizza and tempting pastries at Italian cafe, Brunetti.

Uniquely Melbourne Vegemite is manufactured at only one place in the world and that is a factory in Port Melbourne.

Lovers of Literature

10am The State Library Victoria is not just home to thousands of tomes, but also a stunning building.

Check out the magnificent dome in the La Trobe Reading Room and take some time to explore the World of the Book exhibition (until 31 December), which showcases the history of book design, illustration and production from the Middle Ages to today.

1pm Tucked beneath the library is The Moat, a literary-themed restaurant and bar. At lunch there are bagels, toasted sandwiches, salads and more substantial dishes.

3pm Browse some of Melbourne’s favourite book stores. Across the road is Embiggen Books, where there’s a particularly good selection if you’re interested in popular science or philosophy, and a short walk away is Hill of Content, which has an excellent choice of locally produced titles. w slv.vic.gov.au w themoat.com.au w embiggenbooks.com w hillofcontentbookshop.com

Royal Arcade

For Serious Shopaholics

10am Start your day of retail therapy by ducking into Royal Arcade and The Block Arcade, both of which still boast 19th-century architectural features, as well as dozens of independent, quality stores.

12pm Make your way to Emporium Melbourne, an

upmarket mall bursting with international designers and local labels. It’s also home to one of the most popular foodie hot spots in the city centre. Try Unabara Lobster & Oyster Bar for Japanese cuisine with a twist. w royalarcade.com.au w theblock.com.au w emporiummelbourne.com.au w unabara.com.au

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State Library Victoria Cameron Murray

Accessible Melbourne 1.5 hours before sunrise Meet your pilot and crew for an unforgettable sunrise hot air balloon ride over Melbourne’s city skyline courtesy of Global Ballooning. The company has easy-access baskets so that passengers with impaired mobility can also enjoy the best views in town.

9.30am(ish) Back on solid ground, head to

w globalballooning.com.au w southofjohnston.com.au

Global Ballooning

Australian Football League

Calling Sports Lovers

During September, check at the closest visitor centre (or ask at your hotel reception) to find out if one of the Australian Football League finals is being played at the mighty Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) or Etihad Stadium.

2pm When it’s not hosting a footy match (or cricket game during the summer months), the MCG welcomes visitors for its MCG Tour. Your friendly guide will give you a glimpse behind the scenes at this grand stadium, taking in the dressing rooms, media boxes and more.

3.30pm Combine your MCG Tour with a visit to the

National Sports Museum, also located at the MCG. You can see some amazing memorabilia, as well as have fun in the interactive Game On! gallery.

Suitable for all ages. w afl.com.au w mcg.org.au w nsm.org.au

Global Ballooning

Want more regional Victoria highlights?

See page 105.

ACMI

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Itineraries

South of Johnston, with its easily accessed outdoor area at the front, for a hearty breakfast of pancakes, southern-style baked beans and more.

My Melbourne

Matilda

Scott Pickett Chef and restaurateur

One of the city’s favourite chefs has spread his wings and opened an exciting new restaurant south of the Yarra River.

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He’s one of Melbourne’s most admired and respected chefs, but even for someone like Scott Pickett, Matilda is an ambitious project. Located in South Yarra, across the road from the Royal Botanic Gardens, it has a sophisticated restaurant on the ground floor and, downstairs, a basement bar. The kitchen also prepares the breakfast hampers for United Places, the 12-suite hotel that has opened upstairs. Oh, and there’s a wall of wood right beside the kitchen.

“We use fire to cook everything here,” says Scott.

“Ironbark is the main wood, and we add cherrywood, pinot vines and apple wood for flavour.”

Scott’s Favourites Cafe

In Northcote, Tinker is a couple of doors down from Estelle Bistro and it always has great coffee and food and a good vibe.

Restaurant

Shaun Quade is a great cook and doing some really interesting things at Lûmé in South Melbourne. He uses a lot of native ingredients in his tasting menu.

Matilda

The design of Matilda, named after Scott’s daughter, reflects the importance of fire, coal and smoke and flips the standard restaurant layout — the kitchen is located just inside the front windows, attracting the attention of anyone walking past.

It’s a big change from Scott’s other successful restaurants. He has Estelle Bistro in Northcote and Pickett’s Deli & Rotisserie in the Queen Victoria Market.

Like most chefs, South Australian-born Scott finds the restaurant scene of Melbourne an exciting prospect. “It’s a strong food city,” he explains. “For a long time, we did the top end really well, but now it’s consistently excellent at all levels. And there are multicultural areas, like Victoria Street in Richmond and Footscray, where you can get great food from around the world.”

Spring Racing Carnival

View

Itineraries

John Dory is cooked on the bone and topped with a twist on the traditional French grenoblaise — rather than capers and lemon, it is flavoured with salt bush, desert lime and lemon myrtle. Spanner crab is smoked and served with prawn butter and charred flatbread. There are vegetarian dishes, too, including Musquee de Provence (a type of pumpkin) with pepita and Jerusalem artichoke.

Looking at my new kitchen at Matilda. We cook everything using fire and I worked with the designers at Projects of Imagination for the past 18 months to make sure we got it right.

Event

The city comes alive during the Spring Racing Carnival. I love to see Melbourne on show.

Hidden Gem

We have access to such good food and produce in Melbourne. On the fourth Saturday of each month, the family goes to the Slow Food Farmers’ Market at Abbotsford Convent to stock up.

Great Ocean Road

Place

There’s nowhere I’d rather be than kicking the footy with my son at the local oval in Fairfield.

Guilty Pleasure

Riding my Harley down the Great Ocean Road.

You can’t beat that feeling of freedom.

Connect with Matilda: w matilda159.com @matilda159domain

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Pieces of Eight

Shop Take home some treasured mementoes from your time in Melbourne. Whether your passion is fashion or you treasure local design, these are the retail hot spots.

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Melbourne Central

Burch and Purchese

Shop

Bibelot

Lucy Folk

Shopping Central

Looking for the convenience and style of some of Australia’s best shopping centres, right here in Melbourne’s city centre? Melbourne Central and Emporium Melbourne are connected by weather-proof walkways, making your morning of retail therapy stretch into a full day with little effort. If you’d prefer to explore some of the suburban malls, Chadstone in the southeast and Highpoint in the west are your best bets. w melbournecentral.com.au w emporiummelbourne.com.au w chadstone.com.au w highpoint.com.au

Statement Pieces

Want to add the perfect finishing touch to an outfit? Quirky, fun jewellery, sunglasses and bags can be found in the petite store of local designer Lucy Folk. An Australian label that’s gone global is Mimco, best known for its ontrend handbags and shimmering costume jewels. If vintage is more your style, Keshett offers amazing Art Deco pieces featuring precious stones, including diamonds. w lucyfolk.com w mimco.com.au w keshett.com.au

Oh So Sweet

Shopping shouldn’t only be about what you put over your body — it should be about what fills you as well. Luckily, Melbourne has you covered with some truly decadent sweet shops, like Burch and Purchese in South Yarra. Its hand-crafted cakes and desserts are intense.

Stop by Chocamama for some indulgent Melbourne-made chocolate and confectionery.

You’ll also find pretty sweet treats at Bibelot, which is worth a detour if you find yourself near the South Melbourne Market. w burchandpurchese.com w chocamama.com w bibelot.com.au

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Green Olive at Red Hill

Made in Melbourne. Green Olive at Red Hill is a whole farm experience. We grow olives, grapes, herbs and veggies, raise sheep, chooks and pigs, and use fresh produce to create a range of food, wine and body products you’ll love.

Our city store houses all our favourite products, including our beautifully nourishing olive-based body washes and lotions.

All our farm produce and gift sets are handmade in Melbourne with natural farm ingredients.

Open: Mon–Fri, 10am to 6pm; Sat, 10am to 5pm & Sun, 11am to 4pm Shop 11 Centreway Arcade, 259–263 Collins Street, Melbourne t 0438 002 606 w greenolive.com.au

Central Equity Apartments Superb Southbank and city locations.

Walk to Arts Centre Melbourne, Hamer Hall, NGV, Royal Botanic Gardens, Crown, MCG, restaurants and cafes, RMIT, Melbourne University and more.

Brand new off-the-plan, spacious 1 and 2 bedroom apartments.

Open to inspect: Mon–Sat, 10am to 5pm & Sun, 12pm to 5pm 560 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne | 199 City Road, Southbank t 03 9278 8888 w centralequity.com.au

Left: Artist impression

Spoilt Gift & Homewares

Visit one of Melbourne’s leading gift and souvenir boutiques, with seven stores conveniently located in Melbourne CBD. Spoilt offers an amazing variety of Australian designed and made gifts, so you can treat yourself or find something special for friends and family. Spoilt has something for all ages, including toys, books, candles, jewellery, homewares and more.

Open: Store hours vary, see website for details 546 Collins Street | 550 Bourke Street | 231 Bourke Street 111 Bourke Street | 44 Lonsdale Street | Southgate Spencer Outlet Centre t 03 9663 4444 w spoilt.com.au Find us on:

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Shop

Queen Vic Market Queen Victoria Market is an authentic, bustling, inner-city market that has been the heart and soul of Melbourne for 140 years. Home to more than 700 small businesses, it’s a great place to discover fresh and specialty produce, handmade and unique products, great coffee and food, souvenirs and clothing. Shopping at the market has always been one of life’s great pleasures. It’s not just the abundance of fresh food, it’s the friendly banter with the traders, the vibrant and multicultural atmosphere, the special events and festivals, and the sense of belonging that comes with it.

Tram: Route 19, 57 or 59 to stop 7 and route 58 to stop 9 Train: To Melbourne Central or Flagstaff Stations Open: Tue 8am to 2pm, Thur 8am to 2pm, Fri 8am to 5pm, Sat 8am to 3pm, Sun 9am to 4pm Corner Elizabeth & Victoria Streets, Melbourne t 03 9320 5822 w qvm.com.au/tours /queenvicmarket @vicmarket

Take the Ultimate Foodie Tour, a delicious and fascinating guided walking tour where you’ll taste the freshest produce, discover unique ingredients, learn tips and tricks for shopping and cooking, discover the market’s history and meet some of our beloved traders. Bookings essential at the website opposite.

Queen Victoria Market is also home to the Night Market on Wednesday nights, showcasing global street food, live music and entertainment, festival bars, specialty shopping and a uniquely Melbourne night out.

Come and explore the market and see why it is one of Melbourne’s best-loved places.

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Tax Free Luxury at Melbourne Airport International travellers can now discover a premium, pre-flight retail and dining destination at Melbourne Airport.

Located within the International Terminal after security, the T2 luxury precinct is home to 11 global designer fashion and accessories brands offering endless pre-flight retail therapy.

Fashion in full flight Label lovers can shop the latest runway looks tax free, from an impressive line-up of international designers including Tiffany & Co, Burberry, Salvatore Ferragamo, Max Mara, Emporio Armani, Watches of Switzerland, Bally, Michael Kors, Hugo Boss, Furla and Tumi.

This curated collection of some of the world’s finest fashion brands is Melbourne’s newest, luxury shopping attraction.

Tax & Duty Free Prices

Dining destination

Travellers can also shop tax and duty free on their favourite premium brands from the new duty free retail store.

As the last stop on the travel itinerary, jetsetters can enjoy a pre-flight bite to eat or drink from some of the city’s top hospitality hot spots.

As one of Australia’s best duty free experiences, Melbourne Duty Free has popular cosmetics, liquor, health and wellbeing, jewellery, electronics, and accessories brands available at unmissable prices. Whether it’s shopping for that perfect souvenir, or a gift for a loved one, visitors can spend less on top brands and exclusive products to depart Melbourne with lasting memories.

Six of Melbourne’s favourite restaurants and bars are on the menu, serving up a variety of gourmet dishes and cuisines.

Enjoy Spanish tapas at Bar Pulpo by Movida, French-inspired fare at Café Vue, healthy snacks from Urban Provedore, a refreshing drink at Two Johns pub or coffee from local institution, Brunetti.

www.melbourneairport.com.au

DFO South Wharf Bursting for brands? Need DFO.

Find more than 180 Australian and international designer brands at up to 70% off.

Pick up your Tourism Offer Booklet today.

Train: To Southern Cross Station Tram: Route 12, 96 or 109 to stop 124a and route 35, 70 or 75 to stop D5 Open: Sat–Thu, 10am to 6pm, Fri, 10am to 9pm 20 Convention Centre Place, South Wharf t 03 9099 1111 w dfo.com.au/south-wharf Find us on:

Lightning Ridge Opal Mines

Join the Le Souëf family to learn about the most beautiful gemstone in the world. With more than 40 years experience mining, cutting and exporting opals, we can teach you about all eight varieties available in Australia and how they are cut, polished and valued.

Visit our showroom for a unique, interactive, obligation-free lesson, then browse our huge range of internationally guaranteed opals.

Tram: Route 19, 57 or 59 to stop 2 Open: Mon–Fri, 9.30am to 5.30pm & Sat–Sun, 10am to 5pm 63 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne t 03 9654 4444 w opals.net.au Find us on:

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#ImagineDifferent

The District Docklands is the experiential heart of the Docklands.

Shop your favourite Australian and global brands. Ride the iconic Melbourne Star for a bird’s eye view of Melbourne and experience 3D art at the ArtVo immersive gallery. Enjoy a unique all-day experience with a new entertainment precinct, a place to imagine different.

Right next to the Melbourne Star thedistrictdocklands.com.au

The Block Arcade

Stroll the Arcades

Blend a touch of history with your serve of shopping at two of Melbourne’s most beautiful arcades. The Block Arcade, part of the Golden Mile heritage walk, is blessed with original stainedglass windows, mosaic floors and an arched glass skylight.

Plus, there are a number of independent retailers, including Australian by Design and Beechworth Honey. Similar in style is Royal Arcade, the oldest arcade in Australia. While you’re shopping, check out Gaunt’s Clock, where mythical figures Gog and Magog ring the chimes every hour.

All the Pretty Things

Take something home for your home. Check out top3 by design for a unique concept — a tight edit of the three best products in each category. For beautiful prints, stunning ceramics and artistic tea towels with a local theme, drop into Melbournalia. w top3.com.au w melbournalia.com.au

w theblock.com.au w royalarcade.com.au

Arts Centre Sunday Market

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Don’t Forget the Kids

Imagine the best of everything, just smaller than expected, and you have Bloom & Co Mini in Williamstown. You’ll want everything from its ranges of baby and children’s clothing, toys and puzzles, and kids’ interior products. If you’re after classic and educational toys, enter the magical world of Jasper Junior. w bloomandcomini.com.au w jasperjunior.com.au

Brilliant Brunswick Street Spend the day strolling and shopping at this Fitzroy hub. Here are some of its finest stores.

01 Mondopiero Queen Victoria Market

Market Share

w qvm.com.au w artscentremelbourne.com.au

w mondopiero.com.au

02 HoMie

This is streetwear with a heart. All profits from this ethically made, local label are used to help people facing homelessness and hardship.

Shop

Head to the edge of the city to immerse yourself in the hustle and bustle of historic Queen Victoria Market (Tuesday and Thursday–Sunday). This is where locals go to buy fruit, vegetables and other produce, but there are also great little stores in the surrounding laneways, stalls of souvenirs and general merchandise, and the chance to grab coffee and lunch. On Sundays, the lawn at Arts Centre Melbourne is transformed, with 80 artisans hawking their wares, from arts and crafts to freshly baked cakes, at the Sunday Market.

If you love beautiful things, this store will feel like heaven. Browse the finest art, homewares and fashion and beauty products, sourced from around the globe.

w homie.com.au

03 Brunswick Street Bookstore

Find your next holiday read and browse the excellent selection of independent and literary magazines lining the shelves. w brunswickstreetbookstore.com

Have a Heart

As many people become aware of the issues surrounding fast fashion, we’re seeing more stores like Shifting Worlds open. The fashion and beauty products sold here are both aesthetically gorgeous and created with sustainability in mind. Shop brands like Jil Sander and Issey Mikyake. More ethical fashion, this time made in Australia, can be found at stylish The Ark Clothing Co.

Polyester Records

w shifting-worlds.com w theark.com.au The Ark Clothing Co

04 Polyester Records

Vinyl’s back, and this is the place to stock up on new releases, including those by many Melbourne acts, as well as classic titles. w polyesterrecords.com

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Johnston Jewellers

Johnston Jewellers, a family business dating back to 1901, is proud to be one of Melbourne’s largest opal dealers.

With knowledge stemming from an involvement in opal mining and manufacturing, Johnston Jewellers can provide first-class quality and a selection to suit all budgets.

We stock a huge selection of unmounted opals, as well as set opal jewellery, and are only too happy to explain the intricacies of purchasing one of these fine gems.

Johnston Jewellers also has a magnificent range of South Sea black, white and gold pearls, as well as jewellery, to choose from.

Shop

124 Exhibition Street, Melbourne t 03 9650 7434 e info@johnstonjewellers.com w johnstonjewellers.com Find us on:

Downies Coins & Collectables

One of Australia's largest displays of Chinese Lunar and collector coins featuring modern numismatic releases, decimal and pre-decimal Australian and world coins and banknotes.

Featuring three interactive, rotating coin display cabinets, mechanically controlled with a forward and reverse viewing function. Holding more than a thousand coins from all over the world, including an extensive British, Colonial, Ancient and Australian selection.

Specialised services include rare coin sales and wish-list fulfillment, valuation services including auction consignments, and gold and silver bullion sales.

Open: Mon–Thu, 9.30am to 5pm; Fri, 9.30am to 6pm & Sat, 9.30am to 5pm Shop U04 Southgate 3 Southgate Avenue, Southbank t 03 9686 8411 w downies.com

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Local & international fashion, exquisite giftware, quality entertainment & mouth watering cuisine.

45 Collins St, Melbourne | collinsplace.com.au

Spencer Outlet Centre

VIP TOURIST REWARDS Exclusive access to our VIP shopping specials and discounts.

Pick up your offers booklet today from the Centre Management Office (near TK Maxx).

Terms and Conditions apply.

Melbourne CBD’s only outlet centre

Big on brands. Big on convenience.

You’ll find over 100 quality eateries, specialty stores, major brands and on-trend fashion stores in one convenient location.

spenceroutletcentre.com.au |  |  201 Spencer Street Docklands VIC 3008 T: (03) 8689 7577 Next to Southern Cross Station & above the Skybus Terminal.

Atlas Dining, Prahran

Eat& Drink At any time of the day and well into the night, you’ll discover exceptional dining in Melbourne. From breakfast bagels to evening cocktails, we’ve got you covered.

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Word on the Street Leonora (43) from Balaclava “The guy who runs Hawker Chan won a Michelin star for his Singapore street stall, so we couldn’t resist trying it when it opened in Melbourne. There are quite a few options, but you can’t go past the soya chicken with rice, the chef’s specialty.” w hawkerchan.com.au

Ponyfish Island

Eat & Drink

PolePole Bar + Kitchen

Global Goodness

What makes Melbourne’s dining scene so interesting is its multicultural make-up. PolePole Bar + Kitchen is inspired by the food and drink of East Africa, including All You Can Meat on Wednesdays ($39, bookings recommended). ENA Greek Street Food is situated in Southgate overlooking the Yarra River, and — you guessed it — specialises in scrumptious Greek pickings. For modern Korean dishes and matching cocktails in a cosy space, head to Suda.

PolePole Bar + Kitchen

By the Water

With spring in the air, it’s tempting to relax with a river view. Tucked beneath Federation Square is Pilgrim Bar, which specialises in boutique Australian wines. Kick back with a cocktail surrounded by the Yarra River at Ponyfish Island, located beneath the Southbank Pedestrian Bridge. w pilgrimbar.com.au w ponyfish.com.au

Savour a Slice

Coburg’s Stretched Pizza — all the bases are created solely by hand resulting in a crispier finish — likes to veer from tradition. If a cheeseburger on a pizza sounds like your idea of heaven, try the Hangover. Traditionalists should try award-winning 400 Gradi.

There are a number of handy locations, including Southbank. w stretchedpizza.com.au w 400gradi.com.au

w polepolebar.com.au w enagreekstreetfood.com.au /restaurantsuda

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Advertorial

Down by the Water

With spring in the air and the sun shining, there’s no better time of year to enjoy Melbourne’s finest riverside bars.

Ship Hot

Whether you’re looking for a great spot for lunch or somewhere to chill for the day, you’ll love The Boatbuilders Yard. Situated beside the Polly Woodside historic sailing ship — she makes the bar easy to find — this is the spot for an icy-cold beer over a game of bocce, wine and holiday reading in a deckchair, or impressing your significant other with sunset cocktails. w theboatbuildersyard.com.au

Four Seasons Covered

Under The Arches

In the historic Federation Wharf vaults by the Yarra River, you’ll discover an enduring favourite, Riverland Bar. Locals love it for after-work drinks, but the location means it’s perfect for a meal before a show at Arts Centre Melbourne or if you’re walking to the MCG. Tuck into crowd-pleasing favourites and wash it down with a full selection of local wines, craft beers and spirits. w riverlandbar.com.au

Small Is Beautiful

When you enter The General Assembly it’s as if the CBD’s laneway vibe has been transported to South Wharf. Local artists have created street art installations on walls and staircases around the indoor-outdoor venue. Peruse the menu featuring the latest food trends, while you sample a huge range of drinks and listen to local acoustic artists.

Beneath Federation Square, discover a riverside venue that specialises in locally produced and boutique wines, beers and spirits. At Pilgrim Bar that philosophy extends to the focused menu of seasonal share plates. This intimate spot with spectacular views of the Yarra is the kind of unpretentious bar where you can take someone you want to impress or pop in after a hard day’s sightseeing.

w thegeneralassembly.com.au

w pilgrimbar.com.au

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Secret Kitchen CBD

When you’re looking for a sophisticated dining experience, let our award-winning chefs spoil you. Secret Kitchen offers a full range of dim sum, exceptional Cantonese cuisine and the freshest seafood, which comes from Melbourne’s largest restaurant aquarium.

Open daily: Yum cha, 11am to 3pm; dinner, 5.30pm to 11.00pm 222 Exhibition Street, Melbourne t 03 9988 7778 w secret-kitchen.com.au Find us on:

Bridge Road Richmond

A visit to Melbourne isn’t complete without experiencing the huge array of cuisine from around the globe available in the Bridge Road Precinct. With more than 145 restaurants and cafes, you will find the area bustling day and night. Make sure you also have enough time to explore the shops offering fashion and homewares.

Eat & Drink

Tram: Route 48, 75 or 78 Train: To Richmond or West Richmond Station w bridgerd.com.au Find us on:

The Hotel Windsor

Step back in time in Australia’s most cherished grand hotel and partake in the age-old tradition of afternoon tea. Enjoy delicious finger sandwiches, irresistible pastries and our famous Windsor scones from an exquisite tiered silver stand as you sip French sparkling wine and freshly brewed tea. On weekends, treat yourself to an additional indulgent dessert buffet set to satisfy any sweet tooth.

Served since 1883, it's a quintessential Melbourne experience you cannot miss.

Tram: Route 11, 12, 35 (free City Circle), 48 or 109 to stop 8; and route 86 or 96 to stop 9 Train: Parliament Station (Bourke Street exit) Open: Mon–Tue, 12pm to 2pm; Wed–Fri, 12pm to 2pm & 2.30pm to 4.30pm; Sat–Sun, 12pm to 2pm & 3pm to 5pm 111 Spring Street, Melbourne t 03 9633 6004 w thehotelwindsor.com.au Find us on:

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Lûmé

Spring Our

Picks

Starward Distillery

In a huge Port Melbourne space, the Starward distillers create their award-winning whisky. Take a tour of the premises then grab a seat at the onsite bar to taste the wares, including some that are exclusive to the distillery. w starward.com.au

Lûmé

The tasting menu here, created by chef Shaun Quade, is unlike anything else you’ll find in Melbourne. Each dish is a surprise, often utilising native ingredients, and matched to a carefully selected beverage — to keep things interesting, it’s not always wine. w restaurantlume.com

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Marion

Humble Rays

w marionwine.com.au

w humblerays.com

It bills itself as a wine bar, and there are certainly plenty of interesting choices of small production and natural varieties on the list, but the food here is also excellent. The menu is short and the ingredients treated simply, but it’s incredibly accomplished.

Marion

If you love breakfast and dessert, you’ve come to the right place.

This colourful, welcoming cafe specialises in all-day sweets, including Hong Kong egg waffles topped with an amazing array of ingredients. Don’t worry, there are savoury dishes as well.

Transit Rooftop Bar

This is a great place to show off to your significant other. Set on the edge of Federation Square, it’s a secret hidden in plain sight.

From your table on the terrace you’ll be able to look towards Flinders Street Station and Arts Centre Melbourne’s spire. It’s open till late, so head up after dinner for cocktails.

Transit Rooftop Bar

w transitrooftopbar.com.au

Fancy Hank’s

w fancyhanks.com

Fancy Hank’s

Eureka 89

On the top floor of Eureka Tower is this sophisticated bar with glorious views through floor-to-ceiling windows. It now offers cocktail or whisky flights to enjoy either before you head out for dinner or to finish up the night. Reservations are essential. w eureka89.com.au Eureka 89

Pierrick Boyer Cafe Patisserie

The acclaimed pastry chef blends sophisticated Melbourne brunch with his fine French pastries to create a Prahran cafe where you can be naughty or nice (or both) — at least when it comes to choosing from the menu. w pierrickboyer.com.au

Eat & Drink

Every Sunday this barbecue joint turns its attention to the most important meal of the day.

At Fancy Brunch Sundays, held between midday and 2pm, you can choose two items from a menu that includes breakfast tacos and poached eggs with sausage gravy and enjoy them with bottomless Kentucky iced tea and pomelo spritz.

5 & Dime Bagel

This cute space is where it all happens. Bagels are boiled and baked traditionally but occasionally with some unconventional toppings (like dill and salt). Get them with a schmear of flavoured cream cheese or as a sandwich, then grab a few more for breakfast the next day. w 5dimebagel.com.au

Secret Kitchen

Order baskets of dim sum — steamed Shanghai pork dumplings, crispy garlic prawn spring rolls, Peking duck rolls, vegetarian lettuce cups, roasted meats — and share them around.

There are also restorative soups, including ginseng and quail soup, for anyone looking for some comfort food. w secret-kitchen.com.au

Secret Kitchen

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Fargo & Co

Higher Ground

Pidapipó

Something Extra Special Make your Melbourne visit even more memorable by treating yourself. Celebrity chef Shannon Bennett’s Iki Jime focuses on sustainably caught seafood prepared in a head-to-tail-fin manner. Cementing its reputation as the country’s finest restaurant, Attica was named at number 20 on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in June. Book in advance or call on the day to see if there’s been a cancellation. w ikijime.com.au w attica.com.au

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Glacé

Start the Day Right

The inventive breakfast dishes, like polenta porridge with persimmon and fresh and dried raspberry, draw diners to stylish Higher Ground from across the CBD. Also popular is compact cafe Hardware Société, which serves up French- and Spanishinspired dishes for breakfast.

On the weekend, head to Richmond’s glam Fargo & Co for its bottomless brunch. w higherground melbourne.com.au a Hardware Société, 120 Hardware Lane w fargoandco.com.au

Frozen Moments

Cool off when the temperature rises with gelato churned daily at Pidapipó. Look for the special, seasonal flavours on offer at its three stores in Carlton, Windsor and Degraves Street. It’s worth a detour to Caulfield North to experience Sundae School, an American-style ice-cream parlour with unique, handmade flavours created by a chef who once worked with Heston Blumenthal.

For something different, drop by bright yellow cafe, Glacé, which specialises in frozen desserts. w pidapipo.com.au /sundaeschoolicecreamery w glacefrozen.com

Neighbourhood Favourites When you’re out and about discovering Melbourne’s suburbs, try some of their choice cafes.

01 The Kettle Black

It seems almost wrong to describe this South Melbourne venue as a cafe. Both its interior design and daytime menu are sophisticated and inventive. w thekettleblack.com.au

02 Cornerstone & Co Bad Frankie, Fitzroy

Toasties or jaffles aren’t an Australian invention, but we do love them. Basically, they involve jamming ingredients between slices of bread and cooking them in a sandwich press. Seinfeld-inspired George’s Bar has a full toastie menu, including the Takai, with pineapple, ham, mozzarella and green Tabasco.

Another bar serving jaffles — this time alongside local small-batch booze — is Bad Frankie. At the end of the night, order the Lamington, which has jam toasted into chocolate sponge cake, rolled in coconut and served with cream.

/cornerstoneandco

Eat & Drink

Best on Bread

This cafe in the leafy streets of bayside Hampton serves breakfast, brunch and lunch dishes with both southern Italian and Japanese influences in a friendly atmosphere.

03 Angus & Bon

It may be named after two members of AC/ DC, but this steak house, set in the grand old Prahran Post Office, boasts classic New York style. Weekend brunch is a popular option. w angusandbon.com.au

04 Don’t Lose Your Temper

w georgesbar.com.au w badfrankie.com

Sure, you can get a sandwich here, but this Fitzroy offering from two pastry chefs is one for the sweet tooths. Tuck into pretty berry cheesecakes, coconut caramel slice and more.

Open all Hours

w dontloseyourtemper.com.au

Jet lag and late-night dancing can cause a need for good food after hours. Tuck into a nourishing bowl of broth and noodles at the always-open Twenty Pho Seven. The perfect spot to soak up too many beers is Butchers Diner, where you can get burgers, Japanese fried chicken and octopus yakitori 24 hours a day. w twentyphoseven.com.au w butchersdiner.com Want more suggestions for places to eat in Melbourne’s neighbourhoods?

See page 92.

The Kettle Black, South Melbourne

Fatto Bar & Cantina

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Advertorial

5 Reasons to Visit Hophaus Munich meets Melbourne at this Southgate favourite, a modern take on the Bavarian beer hall.

The Yarra’s Southern Star

Just a short stroll from the city, discover one of Melbourne’s most exciting shopping and dining precincts, Southgate.

Perfectly Placed

Whether you jump off the train at Flinders Street Station or are cruising past on a tram, it’s a quick walk to Southgate, one of the city’s pre-eminent retail and gourmet destinations. There are casual and classy restaurants and bars, boutique shops and places to pick up life’s little essentials, seven days a week.

Rewarding Retail

Looking for a gift or something for yourself? Southgate has you covered. Browse the racks of carefully edited vintage fashion at American Rag, update your stationery at kikki.K. or pick up a holiday read at Mary Martin Books. w southgate.com.au

Dining Delights

With a number of fine-dining restaurants with beautiful river views — Pure South Dining, Miyako and Red Emperor, for example — it’s perfect if you’re planning a special night. On your way to a show? Check out ENA Greek Street Food and BearBrass.

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01 Choose from the finest German and Czech beers, served from the venue’s 30 taps.

02 Feast on house-smoked meats, schnitzels and, of course, bratwurst from the extensive menu.

03 The Art Deco-influenced dining hall has sweeping views of the Yarra and Flinders Street Station.

04 It’s open for lunch,

dinner, after-work catch-ups, pre-theatre drinks and just about whatever occasion you can think of.

05 Speaking of occasions,

get a group together for the house specialty, a whole suckling pig cooked over the coal pit.

Hophaus

w hophaus.com.au

Industry Beans, Fitzroy

Industry Beans, Fitzroy

These are the places you need to try if caffeine is one of your most important food groups.

The Vertue of the Coffee Drink

In what was originally a stable, you can choose a batch brew, pour over or other specialty coffee to have alongside a fancy pastry. The coffee roaster is right in the chic room with you, so you know what you’re drinking has been prepared carefully. There’s a great brunch menu, including plenty of options for vegans, too. w vertuecoffee.com.au

Eat & Drink

Coffee Connections St Ali, South Melbourne

St Ali

Salvatore Malatesta was one of the first Melburnians to introduce the city to specialty coffee, and the fruits of his labour — beans sourced from around the globe — can be tasted at cafes Australia wide. Go to the source at his buzzing, rustic South Melbourne cafe, and try the Coffee Adventure featuring six of the best bean blends available on any day. w stali.com.au

Industry Beans

This Fitzroy cafe in a former warehouse is one of the suburb’s most popular spots for brunch, but it’s also where the roaster is located. Try single-origin coffee sourced from places like Ethiopia and Panama, or Kenyan beans from a microlot prepared in an Aeropress. There’s cold drip, too, for when the weather’s warm. w industrybeans.com

The Little Mule Cafe

Tucked in a laneway, this spot in the centre of the CBD is relaxed and intimate. The barista team may not roast the cafe’s beans — a Proud Mary blend is used — but you can choose to have it any way you like. Team it with bagels, toasted sandwiches and other simple meals. /thelittlemule

St Ali, South Melbourne

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turn up the

romance Special night? Special person?

Here are your special locations.

1. Jardin Tan

Special doesn’t need to mean exclusive. Vietnameseinspired dishes served on the edge of the Royal Botanic Gardens are perfect for that post-lunch stroll.

The Everleigh

w jardintan.com.au

2. Tipo 00

If local Italian favourite Tipo 00 had an adjective that everyone had to use, it would be sophisticated.

The pasta is buttery, the desserts are sweet, and the clientele is satisfied. w tipo00.com.au

3. The Everleigh

With seven years on the scene in foodie mecca Gertrude Street, the Everleigh is still at the forefront of classy, intimate drinking — although it can cater for larger groups, too.

Gin Palace Tipo 00

w theeverleigh.com.au

4. Izakaya Den

High-quality Japanese food, washed down with a premier wine and sake list? It’s a combination that has ‘special night in Melbourne’ written all over it.

Enjoy it and tell everyone about it the next day (the food, that is). w izakayaden.com.au

5. Gin Palace

Okay, the food menu might not be as wide-reaching as some of the other options on this list, but it’s guaranteed none of them holds a candle to this place for late-night soirees or the number of gins on its list. w ginpalace.com.au

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Izakaya Den

Jardin Tan

The Ian Potter Museum of Art, Parkville

Arts& Culture From blockbuster exhibitions to world-class music and theatre performances, Melbourne offers all kinds of experiences to satisfy your creative side.

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Melbourne By Foot

Hidden Secrets Tours

Word on the Street Louise (27) from Brunswick East “My friends and I love Nocturnal, the adultsonly nights at Melbourne Museum held on the first Friday of the month. There are bands playing, the bar is open and you can check out the exhibits.” w museumsvictoria.com.au

Old Melbourne Gaol

Cooks’ Cottage

The World’s on Stage

Step it Up

w mtc.com.au w australianballet.com.au

w melbournebyfoot.com w hiddensecretstours.com

Get an insight into Geelong in the 80s at Melbourne Theatre Company’s Astroman (from 27 October). The action follows gifted teenager Jimmy Djalu and his relationship with family and friends.

It’s one of the Australian Ballet’s most popular works and Spartacus (18–29 September) returns to the stage showcasing the male dancers at their athletic best.

Get to know the city better on Melbourne By Foot’s Cultural Walk. You’ll stroll through laneways and arcades while learning about Aboriginal history, architecture, street art and more.

History buffs who want to peek inside some of the city’s grandest buildings should book a spot on Hidden Secrets Tours’ Golden Mile Heritage Walk.

Slice of History

Built in 1755 in North Yorkshire, England, by the parents of Captain James Cook, Cooks’ Cottage was transported to Melbourne in 1934 and rebuilt in the Fitzroy Gardens. Visit to see interpretations of the explorer’s voyages. Between 1842 and 1929, Old Melbourne Gaol held the state’s worst prisoners and witnessed 133 hangings, including that of bushranger Ned Kelly. See historic artefacts and find out what it was like to be held here during the Watch House Experience. w melbourne.vic.gov.au/ cookscottage w oldmelbournegaol.com.au

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Proudly presented

by Suncorp

A Midsummer Night’s Dream 3 – 7 OCTOBER, HER MAJESTY’S THEATRE

Artists Mia Heathcote, Tamara Hanton, Lina Kim and Lucy Green Creative Direction: Designfront Photography Justin Ridler

Opera at Arts Centre Melbourne

Melbourne is the cultural capital of Australia, and there’s no better way to get your culture fix than by seeing an opera at Arts Centre Melbourne. Hear magnificent voices and see spectacular drama in the best opera theatre in the country.

Choose from two incredible productions this spring.

Fall for La Bohème, one of the world’s favourite operas, or revel in Wagner’s Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg, performed by an enormous cast and orchestra.

Tram: Route 1, 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 or 72 to stop 14 Train: To Flinders Street Station La Bohème: Evenings at 7.30pm and matinees at 1pm on select dates.

Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg: Afternoons at 4pm and matinees at 12pm.

See website for details.

100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne t 03 9685 3700 w opera.org.au Find us on:

Old Treasury Building

Discover Melbourne’s history, heritage and people.

Built at the height of the gold rush, the magnificent Old Treasury Building now hosts a variety of displays centred on the history of Melbourne, featuring rare original documents from the Public Record Office Victoria. Uncover the development of Melbourne from fledgling village to modern metropolis.

Temporary exhibitions Gold Rush: 20 Stories, 20 Objects captures some of the stories from the 1850s gold rush, while Behind the Lines (on display until 15 October) showcases Australian political cartoons of 2017.

Train: To Parliament Station Tram: Route 11, 12, 35, 48 or 109 to stops 8 or 10 Open hours: Sun–Fri, 10am to 4pm 20 Spring Street, Melbourne t 03 9651 2233 e info@otb.org.au w otb.org.au Find us on:

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State Library Victoria Ned Kelly's armour

Arts & Culture

The fourth most popular library in the world and the busiest in Australia, State Library Victoria is a mustvisit Melbourne attraction.

Dating back to 1856, the State Library boasts incredible heritage architecture, including the majestic domed La Trobe Reading Room – one of the city’s most magnificent and photographed spaces. It has a soaring glass ceiling and book-lined balconies; head up to the viewing platform on level six for the best view in the house.

Free exhibitions surround the dome, showcasing some of the library’s most precious treasures from its Tram: Number 1, 3, 3a, 5, 6, 16, 30, 35 (free City Circle), 64, 67 or 72 to stop 6 Train: Melbourne Central Station Open: Mon–Thu, 10am to 9pm & Fri–Sun, 10am to 6pm Corner Russell Street and La Trobe Street, Melbourne t 03 8664 7000 w slv.viv.gov.au /statelibraryofvictoria @library_vic @library_vic

collection of more than five million items. Enjoy free daily tours and discover the stories of Victoria and its people. See the original armour of Australia’s most infamous bushranger, Ned Kelly, and a dedicated display of some of the world’s rarest books, including medieval manuscripts illuminated in gold.

Free entry and Wi-Fi available.

Relax before or after your visit at one of our two onsite cafes.

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History, Science and More

Regardless of your interests, there are a clutch of museums sure to fascinate. Got kids with curious minds? Head to Scienceworks, where the interactive and immersive exhibits are both educational and entertaining. Above and Beyond (until 7 October), developed in collaboration with Boeing and NASA, explores the wonder of flight and the marvels of aerospace innovation, design and technology. Find out about this history of the city, from when the dinosaurs roamed to the present day, at Melbourne Museum. A favourite exhibit is Bugs Alive! — it even includes living examples of spiders and other creepycrawlies. Anyone captivated by Li Cunxin’s incredible journey should visit Mao’s Last Dancer: The Exhibition (until 7 October), featuring rare interviews, footage and personal effects, at the Immigration Museum. w museumsvictoria.com.au

Melbourne Museum

Immigration Museum

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Scienceworks

Culture for Kids Why should grown-ups get to see all the interesting things? Share the love with your kids.

01 Pauline Gandel Children’s Gallery

Little ones, from babies to five-year-olds, will get a thrill as they dig, play, explore and party in Melbourne Museum’s dedicated space for kids. w museumsvictoria.com.au The Forum

Arts & Culture

Melbourne Museum

02 Jams for Juniors

Bird’s Basement

Get to a Gig

The live music scene is a solid drawcard for Melbourne visitors, with about 73,000 gigs held across the city each year. Get your fix while you’re here at The Forum, a beautifully restored atmospheric theatre that hosts rock shows, comedy and more year-round. Australian indie sensations Gang of Youths are playing a string of eight shows there (28 October – 12 November) if you can nab a ticket. If your preference is jazz, book a ticket to a show at Bird’s Basement, a sister venue to New York’s famous Birdland. w forummelbourne.com.au w birdsbasement.com

The Melbourne Symphony Orchestra’s music workshops for babies and toddlers aged up to five years old take place on selected Saturdays throughout the year. w mso.com.au

03 ArtPlay

If you’ve got kids younger than 12, this is the place for them to express their creativity. There are more than 300 workshops, events and performances each year. w artplay.com.au

04 Instant Rockstar

At this workshop, for ages eight to 12, your child will compose a song using a library of sound samples then create their own music video. w artscentremelbourne.com.au

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THE BLOCK ARCADE 19-18/282 Collins Street Melbourne, VIC, 3000 (+61 3) 9639 0680

Connect with the Land

Take an Aboriginal Heritage Walk in the Royal Botanic Gardens’ Melbourne Gardens, on the land of the Kulin nation, with an Indigenous guide. He or she will perform a traditional smoking ceremony, then tell you about the local Boonerwurrung and Woiwurrung people and how they used native plants for food, tools and medicine. w rbg.vic.gov.au

History Retold

At Melbourne Museum, Bunjilaka’s First Peoples exhibition tells the story of Aboriginal Victoria.

It’s a story that stretches back more than 60,000 years and this exhibition celebrates the diversity, continuity and vitality of the Koorie people. Visit the Milarri Garden to see plants used by the Indigenous people and view sculptures and animals.

At 1.45pm each day, a guide feeds the short-finned eels in Milarri Pond and explains their importance to Aboriginal people. w museumsvictoria.com.au/ bunjilaka

Aboriginal Heritage Walk

Victorian Stories

Bunjilaka, Melbourne Museum

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Trace the history and culture of the Indigenous people of southeastern Australia from Creation Time till the present day at the Koorie Heritage Trust Indigenous Culture Centre’s interactive multimedia exhibition. The centre is also the starting point for the Birrarung Wilma (River Camp) Walk. With a friendly guide, you’ll walk down to Birrarung Marr on the banks of the Yarra River to gain a more meaningful appreciation of the location and its significance to local Indigenous people. w koorieheritagetrust.com

Advertorial

In-spire-ing

Arts Centre Melbourne

Sitting beneath one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks — the magnificent spire — Arts Centre Melbourne is at the heart of Australia’s largest performing arts precinct.

The Cultural Hub

Arts Centre Melbourne is much bigger than even most Victorians realise, comprising three venues on both sides of St Kilda Road: The Theatres Building has the impressive State Theatre, Playhouse and intimate Fairfax Studio; Hamer Hall is a premier venue for musical performances, including those by Melbourne Symphony Orchestra; and Sidney Myer Music Bowl is popular for open-air concerts.

More than merely a place to see a show, this buzzing cultural precinct is a remarkable tourist attraction in its own right that can be explored and enjoyed in a variety of ways.

More Than Meets the Eye Take an entertaining insider's journey with guided tours available daily. On Sundays (10am to 4pm), local artisans present their unique handmade goods at the Sunday Market on the Arts Centre Melbourne lawn.

Wining and Dining

There are plenty of great places to eat and drink. The Barre is perfect for a pre-show wine, meal or late-night drink. For a quick coffee and cake break try Café Vic and the café on the forecourt. At Hamer Hall, Bombini Buzz serves coffee and ice-cream during the day, morphing into a pre-show bar.

Fatto Bar & Cantina, Teatro and Saké all overlook the Yarra River.

Arts & Culture

For more than 30 years, Arts Centre Melbourne has been a hub for story-telling through world-class theatre, dance, music, art and circus, and has thrilled audiences with a diverse program of local and international productions and exhibitions.

Australian Music Vault Open daily, free

Melbourne has long been Australia’s music capital, but now it’s the permanent home of the Australian Music Vault, a free exhibition showcasing the stories of contemporary Australian music.

tixatsix

Line up at the Theatres Building Box Office at 6pm nightly for your chance at one of 20 tickets to select evening performances for just $30. w artscentremelbourne.com.au

Guided tour

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Li Cunxin, Rite of Spring 1988 Photograph Jim Caldwell, courtesy Houston Ballet and Li Cunxin

16 JUN—7 OCT IMMIGRATION MUSEUM

Free with Museum Entry

museumsvictoria.com.au/maos-last-dancer

Melbourne Theatre Company

A much-loved cultural icon, Melbourne Theatre Company is your ticket to the city’s best entertainment, all year round. Offering some of the most exciting theatre from Australia and around the world, from stage classics to cutting-edge new works, there is something for everyone at Melbourne’s home of theatre.

This spring, step back in time to 1980s Geelong for the irresistibly funny and heart-warming new tale Astroman (pictured). Marta Dusseldorp (Janet King) stars in the Broadway hit A Doll’s House, Part 2 and Linda Cropper (Offspring) takes to the stage in the world premiere of The Architect. Discover what's on during your visit.

Train: To Flinders Street Station Tram: Route 1 to stop 17 Open: The MTC Box Office at Southbank Theatre is open Mon–Sat from 9am 140 Southbank Boulevard, Southbank t 03 8688 0800 w mtc.com.au Find us on:

Join a Shrine Tour and immerse yourself as a guide takes you on a 75-minute journey into the fascinating stories behind the Shrine.

Uncover the captivating narrative that draws together a compelling chronicle of this unique monument’s historical and cultural significance. Take the road less travelled and gain unique insights into the Sanctuary, Crypt and Galleries.

Savour the magnificent views of Melbourne and the memorial gardens from the balcony.

Guided tours depart 11am and 12.45pm.

Tram: Any tram on Swanston Street (except route 1) from Federation Square to stop 19 Open: Daily, 10am to 5pm (last entry at 4.30pm) Closed Good Friday and Christmas Day Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne t 03 9661 8100 w shrine.org.au Find us on:

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Arts & Culture

Shrine of Remembrance

The Forum

See & Do Here’s something we can promise you: you’ll never be bored in Melbourne.

There are attractions and experiences galore to discover during your visit.

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Word on the Street Heath (57) from Edinburgh, Scotland “My wife and I did a tour of Ornamental Lake in the Royal Botanic Gardens with Punting on the Lake. It was superb. The setting is beautiful and our guide told us about the plants and birds we saw. I highly recommend it.” w puntingonthelake.com.au

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Make a splash exploring the sights of the city from the Yarra River on a Kayak Melbourne tour. An option where you’re less likely to get damp is on a tour with Melbourne River Cruises. At this time of year, the hour-long River Gardens cruise is highly recommended. w kayakmelbourne.com.au w melbcruises.com.au

Take a Snap

Get out your camera because there are many places to take stunning photographs. Get a backdrop of street art in Presgrave Place. At sunset, capture reflections on the water and the golden hue behind city skyscrapers from Princes Bridge.

Want more tips? Book a threehour course with Melbourne Photography Tours and be taken to all the best spots. w alfonso.com.au/melbournephotography-courses

Melbourne River Cruises

The Great Outdoors

See the city in full bloom at Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, an oasis of more than 8,500 plant species arranged in themed gardens. You could spend all day there, so take a picnic basket.

Set beside the Royal Exhibition Building, impressive Carlton Gardens, with water features and majestic landscaping, is a popular lunch spot for students and city workers. Further afield, stop and smell the offerings at Werribee’s Victoria State Rose Garden.

There are more than 5,000 roses and many are in full bloom during spring. w rbg.vic.gov.au a Carlton Gardens, 1–111 Carlton Street, Carlton w vicstaterosegarden.com.au

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See & Do

Take to the Water

Balloon Flights Over Melbourne

Take an unforgettable one-hour balloon flight over the city of Melbourne followed by a five-star champagne breakfast at Grand Hyatt.

Take pleasure from the serene spectacle of Melbourne, a bustling metropolis of more than four million people. Drifting with the wind, experience Melbourne’s wonderful landmarks.

Enjoy stunning 360-degree panoramic views only available from a hot-air balloon. Fly with owner/ operator Chris Shorten, the BalloonMan with more than 25 yearsʼ experience.

Free in-flight photos, flight video and flight map.

Heading to country Victoria? We offer flights over historic Bendigo, with a post-flight champagne breakfast at Balgownie Estate Winery, Bendigo. t 1800 468 247 (1800 HOT AIR) w balloonman.com.au Find us on:

Come and discover some of the most amazing landscapes Victoria has to offer with Bunyip Tours, our small group sizes (24) ensures personalised and interactive experiences. From the Twelve Apostles to Wilson’s Promontory, Phillip Island or Ramsay Street, we have something to blow everyone away.

Special offer: Save $72 with Melbourne Attractions Pass Package – Great Ocean Road + Phillip Island Tour + Melbourne Zoo and Melbourne Star.

Free translation app downloadable in seven languages on selected services. Available for iPhone and Android.

For a 10% discount, book online with promotion code ‛OVG’ (valid for direct bookings only).

Train: To Southern Cross Station Tram: Route 35 (free City Circle), 70 or 75 to stop 1 Open: Daily, 7am to 7pm 570 Flinders Street t 03 9650 9680 w bunyiptours.com Find us on:

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See & Do

Bunyip Tours

Arthurs Seat Eagle

Get ready to soar! Board a state-of-the-art gondola and fly over the state forest to the highest point of the beautiful Mornington Peninsula. Enjoy breathtaking views across the bay to the city in the safety and comfort of a contemporary gondola cabin.

Open: Daily, from 10am 1085 Arthurs Seat Road, Dromana t 03 5987 0600 e info@aseagle.com.au w aseagle.com.au

Arts Centre Melbourne Sunday Market

On Sundays from 10am to 4pm, more than 80 local artisans fill Arts Centre Melbourne's lawn to showcase their unique, handmade goods, ranging from arts and crafts to freshly made edible delicacies. Everything on offer is produced locally, making the market a real favourite for those seeking one-of-a-kind treasures.

Open: Sun, 10am to 4pm 100 St Kilda Road, Melbourne t 1300 182 183 w artscentremelbourne.com.au

Melbourne’s award-winning wildlife park. Explore our bushland, meet endangered species, feed kangaroos, cuddle up to koalas and enjoy encounters with colourful birds, reptiles, dingoes and many other animals. Or come on a magical lantern-lit evening wildlife walk.

Close to Melbourne on the way to Phillip Island.

Open: Daily, 10am to 5pm 550 Tyabb-Tooradin Road, Pearcedale t 03 5978 7935 w moonlitsanctuary.com.au

City River Cruises Melbourne

Experience the true charm of Melbourne from the water. Enjoy a one- or two-hour cruise along the Yarra to Herring Island, Docklands or both. We offer live commentary, tea and coffee, bar, sun deck and friendly service. We look forward to welcoming you on board.

Tram: Route 1, 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 or 72 to stop 13 Train: To Flinders Street Station Open: Daily, 9.30am to 3.30pm Berth 4, Federation Wharf, Princes Walk, Melbourne t 0450 778 000 w cityrivercruises.com.au

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See & Do

Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park

IMAX Melbourne

Holey Moley

SEA LIFE Melbourne

Screens Big and Small

Get an eyeful of the action at the city’s biggest screen — it’s 23 metres high! IMAX Melbourne screens familyfriendly blockbusters and nature documentaries. New to the northern suburbs is Thornbury Picture House, a 57-seat independent cinema showing arthouse and cult movies in a transformed 1920s petrol station.

The bar has Italian food, local beers and batch-brew Padre coffee. w imaxmelbourne.com.au w thornburypicturehouse.com.au

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Strike Bowling Bar

Creatures Feature

Feel as though you’ve become part of the underwater world at SEA LIFE Melbourne. Everyone loves watching the king and gentoo penguins splash in their icy pool, but there’s also the chance to walk through the oceanarium’s glass tunnel and stare at sharks and rays gliding overhead. Want to make the most of your visit to Melbourne Zoo? Book a close-up encounter with the kangaroos or one of the other animals. w melbourneaquarium.com.au w zoo.org.au

A Bit of Fun

Find out just who’s the best with ball (and drink) in hand at Strike Bowling Bar. There’s also the chance to test your aim and get your revenge on annoying mates with a game of laser tag. Add an element of difficulty at Holey Moley, where cocktails and mini golf (finally) sit side by side. w strikebowling.com.au w holeymoley.com.au

Melbourne River Cruises

Enjoy a sightseeing cruise and discover the best of what Melbourne has to offer. + Yarra Sightseeing Cruises: One- or two-hour cruises Daily, 11am, 12.10pm, 1.30pm and 3pm + City and Williamstown Ferry: One-way or return trip Daily, 10.30am, 12.30pm and 2.30pm Special offer: 20% discount on all cruises (show this ad) Open: Daily, 9.30am to 3.30pm Ticket Kiosk: Southbank Promenade Berth 5 (below Southgate food court) t 03 8610 2600 w melbcruises.com.au

Port Phillip Ferries

Set the cruise control. Cruise by ferry from Docklands to the Bellarine Peninsula for a scenic day trip or regional stay. Enjoy local seafood, wineries and beautiful landscapes. Experience the licensed on-board cafe and free Wi-Fi, plus look out for dolphins along the journey. Perfect for groups, families or a romantic getaway. Departing just across the road from Etihad Stadium and on the CBD free tram network.

See & Do

Tram: Route 5, 70 or 75 to stop D3 Train: To Southern Cross Station Open: 365 days a year. Two return services per day 131 Harbour Esplanade, Docklands t 03 9514 8959 w portphillipferries.com.au Find us on:

William Ricketts Sanctuary

Wander along the lush, fern-lined paths and discover more than 90 beautiful clay sculptures. Created by William Ricketts and inspired by the culture and traditions of the Pitjantjatjara and Arrernte Aboriginal people of Central Australia, the forest gallery is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty and tranquillity of the Dandenong Ranges. Entry is free.

Make the most of your day with a picnic nearby in the Alfred Nicholas Gardens or Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden.

Train: Belgrave Line to Upper Ferntree Gully Station Bus: Route 688 from Upper Ferntree Gully Sation Open: Daily, 10am to 4.30pm (except Christmas Day) 1402 Mount Dandenong Tourist Road, Mount Dandenong t 13 1963 w parks.vic.gov.au

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Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

Located in the city’s waterfront precinct of Docklands, Melbourne Star is the perfect way to start your Melbourne visit. Hear stories of Melbourne’s origins and its place in the world while taking in views stretching up to 40 kilometres.

Towering 120 metres high over the Docklands, the Melbourne Star is the only giant observation wheel in the southern hemisphere, and one of only four in

Special offer: Present this ad for 20% off full price general admission tickets Tram: Route 70, 86 or 35 to stop D11, free from CBD Open: Daily; May–Aug, 11am to 7pm; Sep–Apr, 11am to 10pm; Christmas Day and ANZAC Day, 1pm to 10pm Last flight departs 30 minutes prior to closing time Last ticket sales 45 minutes prior to closing time 101 Waterfront Way, Docklands t 03 8688 9688 w melbournestar.com Find us on:

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the world, joining London Eye, Singapore Flyer and Las Vegas High Roller.

You’re invited to take flight and discover a truly unique experience. Get a fresh perspective on Melbourne as you step into a temperaturecontrolled cabin with floor to ceiling windows and take in the spectacular 360 degree views as you float above the streets of the Victorian capital.

With its stunning light show and striking scale, the Melbourne Star is a glittering jewel in the sky above Melbourne’s Docklands, transformed at night by a kaleidoscope of colours in a spectacular LED display.

Come fly with us!

Live Wire Park

Visit Australia’s largest and most electrifying elevated adventure park. Unplug, recharge and set your senses alight with the beauty of the Great Ocean Road while zip lining, roller coasting, climbing, exploring and wandering through this world-class adventure experience.

Experience nature super-charged on the Shockwave Zip Coaster, epic high ropes courses and the treetop Canopy Circuit.

Take the VLine train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station, then change to a Lorne-bound V/Line bus in either Geelong or Colac.

Train: For V/Line service information, visit ptv.vic.gov.au.

Open: Daily, 8.45am to 5pm (not Christmas Day) 180 Erskine Falls Road, Lorne t 1300LIVEWIRE w livewirepark.com.au Find us on:

A must for any visitor to Melbourne, the City Circle Tram (Route 35) is a free travel option, running around the edge of the city’s central business district and the Docklands Waterfront precinct.

Enjoy a leisurely hour-long circuit on a treasured symbol of Melbourne’s history, with trams running conveniently every 12 minutes during hours of operation. Hop on and off at your pleasure at famous Melbourne attractions such as Parliament House, Federation Square, SEA LIFE Melbourne and the Princess Theatre. For more information about seeing Melbourne by tram, visit the website below. w yarratrams.com.au

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See & Do

City Circle Tram

Unmissable Spring Experiences

01 Everyone’s Favourite Block

Give the kids a thrill at Australia’s only LEGOLAND Discovery Centre. There are rides, a 4D cinema, a factory tour and, of course, plenty of opportunities to build something. A word of warning: you have to bring the kids with you — unaccompanied adults aren’t allowed to enter.

The top 10 — in no particular order — of the best Melbourne has to offer this season.

w melbourne. legolanddiscoverycentre.com.au

02 All Aussie Animals

At Healesville Sanctuary you’ll get the chance to check out this country’s cutest and kookiest creatures. Get close to a koala, watch birds of prey during a sky show, pat a wombat and loads more.

LEGOLAND Discovery Centre, Chadstone

Healesville Sanctuary

04 Taste And Ride

Discover the craft breweries of the city’s inner suburbs, taking part in little tastes along the way, all while cruising the back streets.

Freddy’s Bike Tours offers Bikes ’N’ Brews every Saturday and Sunday afternoon.

w zoo.org.au/healesville

w freddysbiketours.com.au

03 Explore War History

05 Love A Good Scare?

The Shrine of Remembrance is one of the most impressive and sombre buildings in Melbourne.

There are excellent exhibits about Australia at war, more than 800 pieces of art and a spectacular view from the balcony. w shrine.org.au

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Discover olden-day Melbourne’s dark side, when Chinatown was home to opium dens and poor houses supplied bodies to medical scientists, with Lantern Ghost Tours.

Shrine of Remembrance Craig Ridley

w lanternghosttours.com.au

06 Soak Away Your Stress

In the heart of Collingwood, discover a little patch of serenity.

The Japanese Bath House offers a traditional experience — scrubbing and a sauna followed by single gender, communal bathing. Relax afterwards in the tatami lounge or book a shiatsu massage. w japanesebathhouse.com

07 Enter The Smile Zone

Walk through Luna Park’s instantly recognisable smiling face and get ready for an adrenaline rush.

There are full-on rides for big kids and gentle ones for littlies.

Combine a few hours there with a visit to St Kilda Beach.

08 Jump Off A Building If you’re a thrill seeker, check out Rap Jumping, which involves running down a seven-storey building head first. Don’t worry, you’re attached to a rope. w rapjumping.com

09 Take A Skate

Strap on your blades of glory and take to the rink at O’Brien Group Arena. There are open ice-skating sessions every day and Ice Ambassadors on hand to give out tips if you’re a beginner or a bit rusty.

Luna Park, St Kilda

O’Brien Group Arena, Docklands

w obriengrouparena.com.au

w lunapark.com.au

See & Do

10 Fun Of The Fair

Get close to farm animals, see live performances, cheer on the woodchoppers, compare the show bags and so much more at the Royal Melbourne Show 2018 (22 September – 2 October).

This is one of the city’s favourite events, for both kids and adults, and you shouldn’t miss it.

Royal Melbourne Show, Flemington

w royalshow.com.au

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Advertorial

Lunch =on the= Rails Sail away from Melbourne to experience a unique dining experience on board a restored heritage train.

9.30am At Docklands, board one of Port Phillip Ferries’ vessels and get ready to cruise to the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula. You’ll travel in comfort and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery — watch out for dolphins. The journey to Portarlington takes about 75 minutes.

11am Once you’ve arrived, a representative from Fergos Bongo Tours will meet you for a transfer to Drysdale Station where The Q Train departs.

11.15am Enjoy a glass of wine at the Club Loco Bar,

before the maitre d’ asks you to board one of The Q Train’s restored dining carriages.

11.30am Travel in style on The Q Train along a

heritage railway line to the picturesque seaside town of Queenscliff. A six-course seasonal degusation menu, featuring the finest local Bellarine produce and wine, beer and cider from the region, will be served. A vegetarian menu is also available. Peer out of the window between courses to see views of Swan Bay and the surrounding landscape or wander up to the Club Loco Bar Car to chat to other travellers and soak up the train’s rich history.

2.30pm You’ll return to Drysdale for transfers back to the 3.30pm ferry to Docklands.

5pm Arrive at Docklands, ready for another exciting

night in Melbourne.

The Sail, Rail and Dine package with Q Train and Port Phillip Ferries starts at $169 a person, and bookings are essential via 0474 968 309 or the website below. w theqtrain.com.au

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Get onboard a guided safari across the open range savannah spotting rhinos, giraffes and zebras! Come face to face with a pride of lions, visit the gorillas, see cheeky monkeys at play and discover a family of hippos in their wetland home.

K Road, Werribee Just a 30 minute drive from Melbourne Public Transport: Take the Werribee line train to Werribee Station, then Bus Route 439 to Werribee Open Range Zoo.

Elliott Avenue, Parkville See some of the world’s most dangerous predators including the elusive Snow Leopard in the new Carnivores’ Trail. Plus, see the world-first National Geographic photography exhibition ’50 Greatest Wildlife Photographs’ only from 7 September to 30 November.

Wander tranquil tracks to see koalas, kangaroos, platypus, dingoes, wombats and emus. Meet the kangaroo mob in the new exhibit, Kangaroo Country! Enjoy feeding Australia’s best loved birds and don’t miss the exclusive platypus presentation.

KIDS ARE FREE Children under 16 years of age receive free entry every weekend, during Victorian Government school holidays and on Victorian public holidays.

Open daily 9am to 5pm 1300 966 784 | zoo.org.au

Only 10 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD. Public transport: No. 58 tram from William St or Upfield train line to Royal Park Station from Flinders St or Southern Cross stations.

Badger Creek Road, Healesville One hour scenic drive from Melbourne.

Coach tours to Healesville Sanctuary depart from Federation Square daily.

ArtVo

ArtVo is Australia’s first immersive trick-art gallery.

There are 11 themed zones to explore more than a hundred hand-painted immersive installations just minutes from the Melbourne CBD. Grab your smartphone or camera and bring your partner, your kids, your friends or your entire family, and become a work of art.

Getting to ArtVo is easy. We're a quick tram ride from the CBD or jump in the car and head to District Docklands’ east or west multi-level car parks, where you can park for free, conditions apply.

As part of the Access Ability Australia network we welcome people of all ages and abilities.

Touch the art. Be the art.

Tram: Route 35, 70 or 86 to stop D11 Open: Daily 10am to 6pm District Docklands, Level 1, 26 Star Crescent, Docklands t 03 3600 1118 w artvo.com.au Find us on:

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

Located in the heart of Melbourne, Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria is one of the world's finest gardens, offering visitors a calm oasis of beautiful plants and landscapes.

This spring, join one of our Indigenous guides on an Aboriginal Heritage Walk or experience a traditional punt tour on Ornamental Lake. Enjoy a relaxing scenic drive on the Garden Explorer bus, then recharge at one of our cafes, Jardin Tan or The Terrace. Visit the gift shop for a unique range of botanical-inspired homewares, books and gardening accessories.

Tram: Route 3, 5, 6, 16, 64, 67 or 72 to stop 19 Open: Daily, 7.30am until sunset Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria, Melbourne Gardens, Birdwood Avenue, Melbourne t 03 9252 2300 w rbg.vic.gov.au Find us on:

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MCG

Experience the National Sports Museum tours, special events and more at the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG).

Soak up footy fever on a MCG tour

You can’t beat the excitement of being in Melbourne during a thrilling September of AFL finals. As the traditional home of Australian rules footy and host Tram: Route 48 or 75 to stop 12; 70 to stop 7C Train: To Richmond or Jolimont Station National Sports Museum: Daily, 10am to 5pm MCG Tours: Daily, every 30 minutes between 10am to 3pm Alternative trading hours apply on event days.

Please visit our website for information.

Gate 3, MCG, Brunton Avenue, Richmond t 03 9657 8879 w mcg.org.au /melbournecricketground @mcg @mcg

of the pinnacle event of the season, the Grand Final, there’s no better time to visit the MCG and go behind the scenes on a guided tour.

WWE

The largest roster of WWE superstars ever to appear in Australia will take part in WWE Super Show-Down on Saturday 6 October at the MCG. The stadium is set to transform like never before, as a massive crowd of fans converge on the MCG to see all time legends, including The Undertaker, John Cena and Ronda Rousey.

Experience Lab at National Sports Museum Sport and digital technology collide at the Experience Lab, an exciting interactive gallery at the National Sports Museum from 8 September until 7 October.

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See & Do

Spring is a sporting season in Melbourne, and there is plenty on offer at the mighty MCG.

Parliament House

Visit Victoria’s Parliament House, one of Australia’s oldest and most architecturally distinguished public buildings. Free guided tours are provided on non-sitting days, Monday to Friday. Groups of six or more must book. On sitting days, come and see Parliament in action.

Public tours: Non-sitting days, Mon–Fri, 9.30am; 10.30am; 11.30am; 1.30pm; 2.30pm & 3.30pm Express tours: 1pm & 4pm Spring Street, East Melbourne t 03 9651 8568 w parliament.vic.gov.au/visit

Sunny Ridge

For generations, Sunny Ridge has been a much-loved attraction in the hinterland region of Victoria's Mornington Peninsula. We invite you to pick your own strawberries (Nov–April), enjoy delicious desserts from our cafe and browse our retail emporium of local products and seasonal produce.

Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm (Nov–Apr); Fri–Sun, school and public holidays, 11am to 4pm (May–Oct) 244 Shands Road, Main Ridge t 03 5989 4500 w sunnyridge.com.au

Find us on:

RAAF Museum Point Cook

See Australia’s Air Force in fascinating detail through thousands of memorabilia items, beautifully preserved aircraft and interactive flying displays, just 25 minutes from the CBD. Admission is free!

Open: Tue–Fri, 10am to 3pm; weekends and public holidays, 10am to 5pm (closed Mon, Christmas Day & Good Friday) RAAF Base Point Cook, Point Cook Road, Point Cook t 03 8348 6040 e raaf.museuminfo@defence.gov.au w airforce.gov.au/raafmuseum

Colonial Tramcar Restaurant

Dining in Melbourne is a fabulous experience, especially aboard the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. As the glossy, burgundy trams cruise the scenic streets of Melbourne, diners enjoy our fine cuisine and drink the very best Australian wines or something from the selection of beverages from our fully stocked bar at an inclusive price.

Open: Daily; Luncheon, 1pm to 3pm; Early Dinner, 5.45pm to 7.15pm & Late Dinner, 8.35pm to 11.30pm t 03 9695 4000 w tramrestaurant.com.au Find us on:

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Gardens of the Dandenong Ranges See & Do

The gardens of the Dandenong Ranges are a riot of colour in spring and perfect for a memorable day out with family and friends. Just one hour from Melbourne, these grand landscaped gardens were originally created as shady summer retreats for wealthy local families.

Now free to visit, the gardens are enchanting settings where you can wander along paths winding through luxuriant tree ferns and majestic gum trees, or picnic on green lawns framed with flowering plants and leafy deciduous trees.

Train: Lilydale or Belgrave lines to Belgrave or Croydon Station Bus: Route 694 and 688 to Olinda or Sherbrooke from Belgrave or Croydon Station Car: The Dandenong Ranges are approximately 50 kilometres from Melbourne, via Burwood Highway or Canterbury Road Open: Daily (excluding Christmas Day and days of total fire ban or severe wind risk) t 13 1963 w parks.vic.gov.au

In spring, see a carpet of colour at the Dandenong Ranges Botanic Garden as thousands of daffodils, rhododendrons, cherry blossoms, azaleas and camellias burst into flower. Discover hidden secrets among the tranquillity of rock gardens, ponds and waterfalls in the stunning Alfred Nicholas Memorial Garden. Or stroll along the hillside terraces of Pirianda Garden and the shady pathways of the George Tindale Memorial Garden, where exotic trees and lush ferns blend harmoniously in dappled light and spring flowers blossom in abundance.

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Use code OVGSPRING for extra $5 off your booking

Luxury Great Ocean Road Tour as low as $99 - normally $165 Phillip Island Penguin Parade Tour as low as $99 - normally $165 Puffing Billy Tour as low as $79 normally $109 Small group Yarra Valley Tours as low as $109 - normally $139 Melbourne City Tours, top regional destinations and short breaks.

Global Ballooning

Miss Fox

With a View

See Melbourne from a higher plain at Eureka Skydeck — from the 88th floor you’ll spy the city, Port Phillip Bay and the Dandenong Ranges. If you’re not afraid of heights, add a ticket for The Edge, a glass box suspended 300 metres above the ground. It’s like a giant ferris wheel, but there’s a lot more scenery to view when you take a spin on Melbourne Star.

For a completely different aspect, plan your circuit for sunset or later, when the lights of the city are sparkling. If romance is on your mind, you can even book a private cabin — add a bottle of champagne for extra brownie points. If you don’t mind early mornings, you can sail across the city as the sun comes up with Global Ballooning. w eurekaskydeck.com.au w melbournestar.com w globalballooning.com.au

See & Do

Melbourne Star

Eureka Skydeck

Pamper Yourself

Want to stay relaxed while you’re on holiday?

Melbourne has plenty of places to while away an hour or two and come out feeling refreshed. Miss Fox has a variety of spa treatments, and its central city location makes it easy to duck in and duck back out into the action. With a little bit more time up your sleeve, make a beeline to the bayside suburb of Williamstown and Lavanya Spa Retreat. With massages, facials, body treatments, spa packages and more on offer, combine a visit here with a walk along Williamstown Beach. You’ll be at ease with the world before you know it. w missfox.com.au w lavanyaretreat.com.au

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e h t E c n e i r E P x e

P U k C O l

DISCOVER YOUR OLD MELBOURNE GAOL STORY OPEN DAILY 9.30am to 5.00pm 377 Russell St, Melbourne oldmelbournegaol.com.au

Phillip Island Nature Parks Only 90 minutes from Melbourne, Phillip Island offers a spectacular coastal environment with an abundance of Australian wildlife and exciting experiences.

Experience the magic of little penguins crossing the beach at sunset at the world-famous Penguin Parade. Choose from a range of viewing options, including Penguins Plus or the underground area for an up-close view. A selection of ranger-guided tours offers a unique and intimate viewing experience.

The new Antarctic Journey offers hands-on fun and a state-of-the-art multimedia experience. The Wild Oceans EcoBoat takes a high-speed adventure to Australia’s largest fur seal colony, while the Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm encourage a more relaxed pace.

Open: Daily, from 10am 1019 Ventnor Road, Summerlands t 03 5951 2800 w penguins.org.au

Screen Worlds presents the incredible story of the moving image in an interactive exhibition for people of all ages. Play computer games from across the decades, immerse yourself in virtual reality, get up close to Cate Blanchett’s Oscar and imitate Neo from The Matrix.

Free entry Tram: Any route along Swanston or Flinders Streets to Federation Square Train: To Flinders Street Station Open daily: 10am to 5pm Federation Square t 03 8663 2200 w acmi.net.au Find us on:

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See & Do

ACMI

Welcome to a World of Entertainment

For terrace dining at award-winning restaurants, indulgent luxury hotel escapes, sophisticated bars, and breathtaking views, Crown offers the perfect mix for the season.

This spring, you’ll find everything you need to enjoy the warmer days and cool nights, all under one roof.

Watch all the footy finals on the big screens, catch the latest blockbuster movie or live show, shop spring racing fashion from leading designer brands. Then sit back with cocktail in hand and a delicious meal as the Riverwalk crowds stroll by.

Train: The closest train stations are Southern Cross Station and Flinders Street

Trams: Catch the number 12, 96 or 109 tram to stop 124A; or the number 58 to stop 115

Visit crownmelbourne.com.au

Walk: From Southern Cross Station (9 mins) or Federation Square (17 mins)

Luna Park Melbourne

Step through the mouth of Mr Moon and soak up the carnival atmosphere, rides and attractions that have entertained visitors for more than 105 years.

Brave the heights of the Great Scenic Railway for spectacular views of the city and Port Phillip Bay, or experience the 6,000 bright lights of the magical Carousel. Try out your dodgem skills, enter the House of Horrors if you dare, plus enjoy all the spinning, zooming, twirling and shrieking you could possibly fit into a day with an unlimited ride ticket.

Tram: Route 16, 96 and 3a to stop 138 Train: Sandringham Line to Balaclava Station, then Tram 16 to stop 138 Open: Victorian school holidays, weekends and public holidays from 11am.

See website for more details.

18 Lower Esplanade, St Kilda e justforfun@lunapark.com.au w lunapark.com.au Find us on:

See & Do

Puffing Billy Railway

Loved by locals and visitors from around the world, Puffing Billy is Australia’s favourite steam train. Experience the historic train as it travels through the Dandenong Ranges, located only one hour east of Melbourne.

Experiences include: + An authentic open-carriage train journey to Lakeside or Gembrook + Lunch in style in the lovingly restored dining carriages + Enjoy an evening of mystery and suspense during Murder on the Puffing Billy Express Tours are offered by all major day-tour operators.

Train: Belgrave Line to Belgrave Station Open: Daily except Christmas Day 1 Old Monbulk Road, Belgrave t 03 9757 0700 w puffingbilly.com.au Find us on:

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Acland Street, St Kilda

Neighbourhoods

Take some time to discover the personalities and possibilities of the suburbs. In just a few hours you’ll unlock the city’s many other sides.

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Northcote

Jump on the route 86 tram to check out a wide range of independent stores. A favourite is Melbourne fashion house Obus, which makes easy-towear, practical, beautiful pieces inspired by designer Kylie Zerbst’s travels. When you’re hungry, feast on burgers, salad and nachos at cute all-day cafe, Poke the Bear. w obus.com.au w ptbnorthcote.com

Obus, Northcote

The most scenic way to arrive in this bayside suburb is with Williamstown Ferries. Work up an appetite taking a walk from Gem Pier, through the Botanic Gardens and along Williamstown Beach.

It should take just over an hour.

If it’s a warm day, take off your shoes, roll up your trousers and take a paddle in the bay. Explore the boutiques along Douglas Parade and Ferguson Street, before stopping for lunch at light and bright Hellenic Republic, which serves up tasty Greek dishes.

Port Melbourne

Tram route 109 goes straight to this bayside neighbourhood.

Keep teenagers happy by putting them in a go-kart at Auscart Racing. Refuel when you’re done at cheeky casual Ciao Cucina with its excellent Italian snacks, pasta and pizza in a sunny courtyard. w auscarts.com.au w ciaocielo.com.au/introducingciao-cucina

Prahran

Catch a train on the Sandringham line in the afternoon to this great shopping destination. Start on Greville Street, with its cool vibe and stores hawking indie fashion, art and gifts. You’ll soon come to Chapel Street, which has a huge variety of high-street fashion labels. Should you finish late, head to Gramercy Social, where you can sip on reviving cocktails and order excellent burgers. w chapelstreet.com.au w gramercysocial.com.au

w visitwilliamstown.com.au w williamstownferries.com.au w hellenicrepublic.com.au

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Neighbourhoods

Williamstown

Hellenic Republic, Williamstown

St Kilda Pier

Shadowfax Wines, Werribee

Donovans, St Kilda

St Kilda

Bayside St Kilda has a real charm.

It has a lot to do with the long stretches of sand and many other attractions. But consider heading here late in the afternoon — the fastest way from the city is on the route 96 tram. At dusk, penguins come in from the ocean at St Kilda Pier. Afterwards, head to Donovans, with its excellent views and Mediterranean-inspired menu. End the night with a martini at classy Bar Di Stasio. w stkildapenguins.com.au w donovans.com.au w distasio.com.au

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Werribee Open Range Zoo

Box Hill

Catch a Lilydale or Belgrave line train to check out one of the city’s most interesting and diverse neighbourhoods. If you’re there early, seek out Pancake Village for jianbing, a delicious crepe filled with egg, hoisin sauce, spring onion and savoury biscuit.

Later, head to buzzy Roast Duck Inn for traditional Cantonese roasted meats. a Pancake Village, Shop 45A, Box Hill Central South a Roast Duck Inn, 29–31 Carrington Road

Werribee South

It might be 32 kilometres outside the city centre, but there are many reasons to hire a car and visit.

Take the kids to Werribee Open Range Zoo, where you can see rhinos, giraffes and other plains animals on an off-road safari.

Visit Werribee Mansion, a grand Italianate home with majestic formal gardens built in 1877. It’s an interesting glimpse into the past. Nearby, the cellar door and restaurant at Shadowfax Wines are open daily for tastings and Mediterranean-style lunch. There’s even live music on the weekends. w zoo.org.au a Werribee Park Mansion, 306 K Road w shadowfax.com.au

Retreat Hotel, Brunswick

Sydney Road, Brunswick

Seddon

/seddonbookalley w sedonia.com.au w commongalaxia.com.au

Alight the route 19 tram anywhere along Sydney Road, and you’ll find enough interesting shops to keep you busy for hours.

Brunswick Bound has an amazing array of books, albums, stationery, jewellery and gifts. There are lots of vintage stores on the strip, but a favourite is Melbourne Vintage for its edited selection of fashion, bags, hats and costume jewellery.

If the weather is sunny, head for the Retreat Hotel’s huge beer garden. You can have a refreshing ale and order from the menu of classic pub food, with plenty of vegetarian options. On the weekend, there might even be a band playing.

Collingwood

Time your visit (tram route 86 goes right through here) for later in the afternoon and check out the work of upcoming contemporary artists at Backwoods Gallery.

Have a beer or cocktail at Dingo’s Bar, which combines Australiana kitsch and an 80s retro vibe.

It’s completely different to your ultimate destination, IDES, where chef Peter Gunn serves an innovative tasting menu in an intimate restaurant with exquisite service. w backwoods.gallery w dingosbar.com.au w idesmelbourne.com.au

w brunswickbound.com.au w melbournevintage.com w retreathotelbrunswick. squarespace.com

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Neighbourhoods

Wedged between Footscray and Yarraville, Seddon — on the Werribee train line — is a lively spot during the day. Browse the huge selection of second-hand tomes at Seddon Book Alley before moving on to homewares, gifts and fashion at stylish Sedonia. Named after a fish that inhabits the nearby Maribyrnong River, Common Galaxia is a smart, minimalist cafe with a satisfying, seasonal menu.

Brunswick

Common Galaxia, Seddon

Did You Know...

Melbourne has been named the world’s most liveable city by the Economist Intelligence Unit every year since 2011?

Maribyrnong River, Footscray

West Footscray

Once Footscray’s sleepy neighbour, this suburb with its diverse community is slowly changing. Those who like quirky homewares, art and accessories should check out Post Industrial Design, which sells the work of Melbourne designers and artisans.

Be equally impressed by the specialty coffee and upscale brunch dishes at West 48. w postindustrialdesign.com.au w west48.com.au

Axil Coffee Roasters, Hawthorn

Hawthorn

Jump off the Lilydale train at Glenferrie — just one of the suburb’s two train stations — and start the day at Axil Coffee Roasters. The bright, modern space is the company’s HQ, so the beans are roasted here.

Order a New Orleans cold brew to have alongside one of the jaffles on the menu. At nearby Hawthorn Arts Centre, the gallery presents impressive exhibitions featuring contemporary artists. Stroll along Glenferrie Road taking in the shops and, when it’s time for lunch, take a seat at Gami Chicken and Beer. The concept is simple: serve great Korean fried chicken with a whole bunch of sauces and sides, then offer cold beer to wash it all down. w axilcoffee.com.au w hawthornartscentre.com.au w gamichicken.com.au

Parkville

This tiny suburb neighbouring Carlton is thought to have been named Parkville because of its proximity to Royal Park. The city’s biggest patch of green covers 170 hectares, and includes a nature playground, eucalypt woodlands, walking trails and playing fields. This is also where you’ll find Melbourne Zoo. Get there on the route 58 tram.

Melbourne Zoo, Parkville

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w royalpark.org.au w zoo.org.au

In the Know

In The Know

Kelly’s Favourites Kelly’s also a local and has explored all that Werribee has to offer.

Cafe

Chatterbox Cafe on Watton Street has the best coffee in Werribee, as well as friendly staff and a great atmosphere.

Bar

Not far away is The Park. It’s relaxed and cozy, with an open fire. It has good food, too.

Restaurant

In the next suburb, Wyndham Vale, is Fresh Chilli, which serves cheap and amazing Thai food.

Shop

I love the new entertainment and eating area at Pacific Werribee. Shops like Mecca Maxima and JB Hi-Fi get me spending my money every time I visit.

Place

My mother used to work at Werribee Mansion (below) and I have fond memories of playing in the mansion’s rooms and exploring its grounds.

It’s open to visitors.

Kelly Hobbs Animal training coordinator, Werribee Open Range Zoo Having started her career at 18 with Zoos Victoria, Kelly Hobbs has worked with a number of species including great apes, big and small cats, bears and many more. It all led to an interest in animal training, but it’s not the sort you might think.

“It focuses on communicating effectively with each animal to build a trusting relationship,” explains Kelly.

“The result is trained behaviours that assist with the animal’s veterinary management and mental stimulation.”

Hidden Gem

Neighbourhoods

Werribee Open Range Zoo

I love walking through the Werribee Mansion grounds down to Werribee River and seeing the views. You always encounter beautiful native animals in this area, too.

Guilty Pleasure

A massage at the Mansion Hotel & Spa. The surrounds are so luxurious. I love taking a swim in the indoor heated pool before an amazing treatment.

Connect with Werribee Open Range Zoo: w zoo.org.au f /zoosvictoria @zoosvictoria

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Sunbury

Melbourne Airport Broadmeadows

Melton

Keilor

Airport West

St Albans Caroline Springs

Essendon Moonee Ponds Flemington

Sunshine

Footscray Seddon

Melbourne

neighbourhoods Hoppers Crossing

Werribee Point Cook

Wyndham Harbour

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Yarraville Spotswood

Newport

Altona

Williamstown

Port Phillip Bay

Epping

Hurstbridge

Diamond Creek

Thomastown

Kangaroo Ground

Bundoora Greensborough Eltham Pascoe Vale Preston

Coburg

Brunswick

Northcote

Parkville

Melbourne

Docklands

South Melbourne

Doncaster Kew

Richmond

Port Melbourne

Bulleen

Ivanhoe

Carlton Collingwood North Melbourne Fitzroy

Hawthorn

South Yarra Toorak

Camberwell

Burwood

Armadale

St Kilda

Box Hill

Canterbury

Mitcham

Ringwood

Wantirna

Glen Waverley

Caulfield

Brighton

Oakleigh

Wheelers Hill

Bentleigh Mulgrave Clayton South

Hampton

Springvale

Noble Park

Sandringham Beaumaris

Rowville

Mentone Mordialloc

Dandenong

Doveton

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Neighbourhoods

Prahran Windsor

Elsternwick

Warrandyte

Templestowe

Heidelberg

Victoria State Rose Garden

Werribee & Surrounds

Just 30 minutes from the city and en route to the famed Great Ocean Road is one of Victoria’s holiday playgrounds — don’t miss it!

Werribee and its surrounds have so much to offer visitors this spring.

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Victoria State Rose Garden

Werribee Open Range Zoo

Werribee Park Mansion

Spring is the perfect time to visit the Werribee Park Precinct, a hub of activity and world-class attractions.

Take the chance to visit the superb Victoria State Rose Garden. With more than 5,000 roses, it will be at its bloomin’ best right about now as the lovely spring roses come into flower.

Big cats, towering giraffes and quirky meerkats are just a few of the creatures great and small you will find at the amazing Werribee Open Range Zoo. It’s wild!

Step into history at Werribee Park Mansion, where stories brim of scullery maids and wealthy pastoralists. Just beyond the mansion’s formal garden you will discover the bluestone homestead, a sculpture walk and the heritage orchid.

While you’re with us, don’t forget to taste awardwinning food and wine at the famous Shadowfax Winery, or indulge yourself with a night or two at the gorgeous Werribee Park Mansion Hotel and Spa. Feed your soul in the luxurious day spa or sit down to a grand high tea.

10–11 November State Rose & Garden Show Victoria State Rose Garden Don’t miss the spectacular spring blooms at the State Rose and Garden Show! Held in the beautiful Victoria State Rose Garden, it's the perfect opportunity to admire the garden's collection of more than 5,000 roses at their best and enjoy live music, entertainment, food trucks and demonstrations with gardening experts. Dust off your picnic rug and bring along your camera for the ultimate spring selfie!

Werribee Visitor Information Centre Train: Werribee Line to Werribee Station Bus: Route 439 from Werribee Train Station to Werribee Park and Werribee Open Range Zoo Open daily: 9am to 5pm Werribee Park Tourism Precinct, K Road, Werribee t 03 8734 6006 w experiencewyndham.com.au /experiencewyndham @experiencewyndham

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Neighbourhoods

Where else can you experience a morning wander through a grand mansion, an afternoon safari across the savannah and get cosy for the night in a luxury hotel? And that’s just a taste. Come see it all.

What’s On

Williamstown

Williamstown, Altona, Newport & Spotswood Explore the innerwest’s heritage, culture and waterfront locations. Itʼs the perfect day trip close to the CBD, yet a world away.

Waterfront Williamstown Historical charm mixes freely with a contemporary lifestyle showcasing cafes and restaurants overlooking a picturesque waterfront in Melbourne’s oldest suburb. Board the HMAS Castlemaine, a floating museum or visit Seaworks maritime precinct. Experience a seaplane flight, ghost tour, Titanic adventure, railway museum and more. Take one of three selfguided tours and visit more than 300 shops in a friendly main street setting, including 70 restaurants, bars and cafes. Take the ferry from Southgate or the train to Williamstown station.

Beach town Altona

Stroll the beach, spot the birds, walk the pier then watch the sun set over the bay as you dine

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from a selection of restaurants and bars. With the beach and a tree-lined reserve adjacent to the shopping area, Altona is a destination with something for everyone. Accessible beach matting is in place throughout the year. Take the train to Altona station.

Cultural Newport

The Substation is one of Melbourne’s most exciting contemporary arts destinations.

Housed in a former electricity substation, it provides the opportunity for artists and audiences to connect in a unique space, with challenging, thoughtprovoking cultural experiences.

Check out the website below for up-to-date program information.

Take the train to Newport station. w thesubstation.org.au

Melbourne Aces Baseball

Historic Spotswood

Spotswood is the home of Scienceworks, Melbourne Planetarium, cool cafes and Australian history. Head to Scienceworks where you can explore, unearth and unveil the inner workings of the world. See a show at Melbourne Planetarium then download the Spotswood industrial heritage tour app to see the set of Mad Max, where Ned Kelly’s armour was made and the home of the infamous stubbie.

Later head to the nearby Hudsons Road Wine and Beer for a wine, latte or some shopping or visit Two Birds Brewery in Hall Street. Take the train to Spotswood station. w museumsvictoria.com.au/ scienceworks

Biking and walking

Hobsons Bay is blessed with 23 kilometres of paved walking and cycling trails set along a stunning coastline. Take the punt across the Yarra River, start at Spotswood and set your own course passing through Williamstown, Altona and beyond. Look out for public artworks and markers along the trail.

Markets Regional Farmers Market, Williamstown Second and fourth Sunday of the month, 9am to 1pm w rfm.net.au Williamstown Craft Market Third Sunday of the month, 10am to 4pm w williamstowncraftmarket.com.au Altona Beach Market Every Tuesday, 9am to 3pm

Candied Bakery, Spotswood

What’s on 4 September – 30 November

Free guided heritage walking tours

Mabel and Woods, Spotswood

Visitor Information Hobsons Bay Visitor Information Centre

Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm Commonwealth Reserve, Williamstown t 03 9932 4310 w visithobsonsbay.com.au w dyob.com.au/hobsonsbay

6 October & 10 October Particle/Wave Scienceworks, Spotswood

Japanese sound artist and multiinstrumentalist ASUNA presents a live music performance featuring more than 100 keyboards.

11 November The Jamaican Music & Food Festival Seaworks, Williamstown 11am to 7pm

Daily 7pm to 9pm

16–25 November Art & Industry Festival

13 October Out on the Weekend Seaworks, Williamstown

Industry-inspired art events and open days throughout Hobsons Bay.

A celebration of Americana music, lifestyle and good times.

November Melbourne Aces Baseball It’s the professional baseball season. Take the train to Laverton Station. w melbourneaces.com.au

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Neighbourhoods

Every Tuesday and Friday from 11.45am to 12.45pm (excluding Melbourne Cup on 6 November).

Contact the Visitor Information Centre on 03 9932 4310.

10–13 October ASUNA The Substation

Hawthorn Makers Market

Hawthorn Makers Market

Cityof Boroondara

Boroondara Farmers Market

Whether you’re looking for high fashion, markets or fabulous eateries, you’ll find it all just east of the city in Boroondara.

Boroondara’s shopping centres offer an enviable lifestyle and a range of opportunities. Explore our abundance of matchbox cafes and hidden courtyard bars, hunt for vintage buys and bargains, find classic retailers, or visit one of our established markets.

Camberwell Sunday Market is more than a local institution.

This suburban favourite attracts collectors from all over Melbourne. Located on Station Street in Camberwell, 7.30am to 12.30pm every Sunday

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Boroondara Farmers Market brings the best produce from regional Victoria to you from 8am to1pm on the third and fifth Saturday of the month.

Boroondara’s beloved Hawthorn Makers Market operates out of the beautiful Hawthorn Arts Centre. You’ll find artisans working in a variety of mediums. Open from 10am to 3pm on the first Sunday of every month. w camberwellsundaymarket.org/ @boroondarafarmersmarket w hawthornmakersmarket.org.au/

Getting There

Train: Belgrave or Lilydale Line to Auburn, Hawthorn, Camberwell or Glenferrie Stations Tram: Route 16, 48, 70, 72, 75 or 109 w boroondara.vic.gov.au @boroondaralife @boroondarafarmersmarket

Buchan Caves, Gippsland

Regional Victoria Travel out of the city to discover stunning landscapes across the state. From pristine beaches to historic towns, Victoria has it all.

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Grampians

Set yourself up with a hire car and head towards the sandstone mountains of central Victoria.

Base yourself in Halls Gap and make the most of nature, following walking trails past waterfalls and dazzling displays of wildflowers towards lookouts that take in the surrounding views.

Grampians

Art Gallery of Ballarat

Ballarat

This historic goldrush town is easy to reach on a V/Line service from Southern Cross Station. Drop your bags at the beautifully restored Craig’s Royal Hotel, which dates back to 1865. There are great cultural attractions on offer, from the Art Gallery of Ballarat to the Ballarat Mechanics Institute, which hosts exhibitions, concerts and performances.

History buffs are also well catered for, with Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum depicting an early gold diggings area, and the Eureka Centre, home of the original Eureka flag, both near the city. Foodies will be happy too, with a full range of restaurants and cafes, although a favourite for casual eats and craft beer is Hop Temple. w visitballarat.com.au

w visitgrampians.com.au

Peninsula Hot Springs, Fingal

Yarra Valley

Hop in your hire car and take a day to explore this picturesque region, just 50 minutes’ drive east of the city. It’s best known for its world-class wineries, but be sure to try the award-winning spirits at Four Pillars Gin and the handmade sweets at Yarra Valley Chocolaterie. w visityarravalley.com.au

Mornington Peninsula

Rolling hills combine with spectacular beaches at this popular weekend spot, an hour’s drive south of Melbourne. While you should definitely not miss lunch and tastings at places like Ten Minutes

by Tractor, don’t forget to relax at Peninsula Hot Springs. w visitmorningtonpeninsula.org

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Great Ocean Road

Bright

Did You Know...

The Great Ocean Road was built by 3,000 returned soldiers after the First World War as a memorial for those who were killed?

Baywalk Bollards, Geelong

Great Ocean Road

w visitgreatoceanroad.org.au

High Country

Drive through Beechworth and Bright on your way to Alpine National Park. During spring, it’s blanketed by native wildflowers, so get your hiking boots out or cover more ground on a mountain bike. Another way to get around is in the saddle with Bogong Horseback Adventures.

It’s only an hour on a V/Line train from Melbourne to the state’s second biggest city, set on the waterfront.

Geelong has undergone a transformation, with many parts of the city attracting new restaurants, bars and shops. Hit up Little Malop Street for Sober Ramen, Uncle Donut and Cabinet Bar. For boutique shopping and cute cafes, as well as the impressive and affordable Boom Gallery, head to Pakington Street. Also in the neighbourhood is the formidable Little Creatures Brewery, where you can do a tour or just enjoy the casual eats and fresh brews. Don’t forget to take a stroll around Corio Bay to check out the Baywalk Bollards, painted to chronicle the history of the city, before stopping in for lunch at Wah Wah Gee on Cunningham Pier. w visitgeelongbellarine.com.au

w victoriashighcountry.com.au

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Regional Victoria

It’s recognised as one of the most beautiful drives in the country, so hire a car and give yourself a couple of days to explore the coastline. Get up early to see the stunning 12 Apostles as the sun comes up, then stop for lunch in Apollo Bay at the Great Ocean Road Brewhouse. Stay the night at Merrijig Inn in Port Fairy before heading back towards Melbourne.

Geelong

Word on the street Regina (38) from Castlemaine “The Goldfields region is full of beautiful and very different towns. Each year, we go to the nearby Maldon Folk Festival (2–5 November). There are bands in venues around the historic town, as well as good food and company.” w maldonfolkfestival.com.au Bendigo Art Gallery

Talking Tram, Bendigo

Bendigo

There are regular V/Line services from Melbourne to the goldrush town of Bendigo each day.

When you arrive, jump on the vintage Talking Tram to get your bearings and find out a bit about the town’s history. At Bendigo Art Gallery, check out Jessie Boylan: Rapture (from 22 September), an ambitious new body of work by a local artist. The parks and gardens of Pall Mall will be bright with colour during

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The Murray

the Bendigo Annual Tulip Display (15 September – 14 October) as about 30,000 bulbs bloom. The region is known for its excellent wineries and produce, and you can taste the best of it during Bendigo Uncorked Week (12–20 October). w bendigotourism.com

The Murray

This mighty river borders Victoria and New South Wales and is the lifeblood for millions of people. Head in your hire car to Mildura and treat your family to a holiday on the water with Mildura Houseboats. You can swim in the river, go fishing, look for wildlife or just relax. Be sure to eat at Stefano’s, which serves Italian cucina povera in Mildura’s Grand Hotel. w visitthemurray.com.au

Phillip Island

Penguins, you say? They are the best-known attractions on Phillip Island, but take the whole day to see more. On an ecoboat tour you’ll see a colony of fur seals.

Later, visit the Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island, home to a historical farm. w penguins.org.au

Gippsland

The seaside towns of Metung and Paynesville are some of Victoria’s best-kept secrets. Tranquil and unspoiled, they’re perfect if your idea of fun is fishing, walking along the beach, water-skiing and wildlife watching.

Daylesford

Known for its healing spa waters and excellent produce, this region is a must-do for visitors wanting to indulge. Take to the waters and have a spa treatment at Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa. Stroll along Vincent Street and browse in the shops, before heading to the Lake House for an exceptional dinner. w visithepburnshire.com.au

Cheese?

Yes, Please When you’re travelling around the state, drop in to taste the wares of these cheesemakers.

01 Milawa Cheese Co

In the historic Milawa Butter Factory, farmhouse cheeses are made using traditional European methods. Don’t miss the washed rind King River Gold.

w visiteastgippsland.com.au

w milawacheese.com.au

02 Yarra Valley Dairy Using cow’s milk from the surrounding region and goat’s milk from Gippsland, cheesemaker Jack Holman makes a superior selection of soft varieties.

Metung

Lake House, Daylesford

w yvd.com.au

03 Timboon Cheesery

w timbooncheesery.com.au

04 Main Ridge Dairy The farm shop here offers tastings of goat’s milk cheeses, from chèvre to caprine (an aged Romano-style), made on this Mornington Peninsula property. w mainridgedairy.com.au Phillip Island

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Regional Victoria

Duck off the Great Ocean Road to stock up on farmhouse cheese created from organic milk. Light lunches are also available.

In The Know

Scott’s Favourites Cafe

Just off Pakington Street, you’ll find Box Office Cafe. It has excellent coffee and simple but healthy food.

Bar

Right in the middle of Geelong is Geelong Cellar Door Wine Bar. Owner Jon Helmer has done a fantastic job getting local wine into people’s glasses.

Restaurant

I’ve got a couple of favourites. For good, everyday comfort food, I’d recommend Pako Raw, but for a special occasion go to Restaurant Igni. It’s worldclass food; chef Aaron Turner is a significant talent and his care and detail is outstanding.

Scott Ireland Winemaker, Provenance Wines Just 10 minutes’ drive from Geelong in Fyansford, there’s an idyllic riverside spot complete with a hulking industrial building that was abandoned in the 1920s. It was the Barwon Paper Mill, but its newest resident is Provenance Wines.

“I wanted to link the land to the person drinking the wine,” says Scott. “We’ll be operating a 10,000-case winery and processing 150 tonnes of grapes each year from here.”

In March, he launched a welcoming cellar door, where guests can taste Provenance’s pinot gris, chardonnay, pinot noir and shiraz and enjoy plates of local cheese and charcuterie — a full kitchen is close to opening.

Geelong

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Event

At the paper mills we have the 2 Worlds Festival (20 October), which is a celebration of Aboriginal culture. It also raises funds for a leadership and education program for Aboriginal children in remote communities.

View

At Torquay, The Esplanade is a beautiful spot, and it overlooks Fishermans Beach.

Place

The Geelong Art Gallery is a much underutilised resource. It’s terrific, and has some great regional art.

Connect with Provenance Wines: w provenancewines.com.au f /provenancewinesau

Torquay

A Beach Break

Advertorial

In Inverloch Sit back and let the V/Line coach take you to this picture-perfect seaside town.

Friday

9.10am* Board the V/Line coach service for Yarram from Southern Cross Station. Hop off at Koo Wee Rup for your next coach.

10.20am Jump on the next

Midday Check in at the luxurious

Eugenie’s Accommodation.

It has seaside rooms that will take your breath away.

1pm Head to Vaughan’s Cafe Deli where you can feast on dishes like avocado smash or salted cod croquettes made from the finest local produce.

While you’re there, pick up some Fish Creek Olives or Karingal Berries for later.

11am Now that you’re fully fuelled, spend the morning walking in the sunshine. Head west along the waterfront and you’ll come to Inverloch Surf Beach. Have your swimmers ready and your favourite book with you to alternate between splashing and relaxing.

6pm Stop at the Invy Espy

quintessential post-surf snack, so grab a quick lunch at Paul the Pieman.

Hotel for a sundowner in the beer garden.

1.30pm A good meat pie is the

8pm Tomo’s Japanese is a smartcasual dinner spot for sushi rolls, tempura, hot pot dishes and more. You won’t be disappointed.

2.15pm* Now you’re sun-kissed and sleepy, head to the V/Line coach for your relaxing trip home.

Saturday

5pm You’re back in Melbourne, feeling refreshed after your short break by the sea.

10am Feel like a local at the Beach Box Cafe, where the breakfast menu is excellent and the service is warm and friendly.

*Check the timetables on the dates you want to travel. w vline.com.au

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Regional Victoria

V/Line coach for Inverloch and for the next hour and 20 minutes you’ll pass through rolling countryside before the stunning coastline comes into view.

3pm Spend the afternoon walking along the soft sand and splashing at Anderson Inlet.

It’s a protected, safe bay where people (and their dogs) jump in for a swim or take their kayaks and windsurfers out for a few hours. You can hire a stand-up paddle board from Offshore Surf School if you fancy giving it a try.

Self-drive

Adventures

Hit the open road to discover Victoria’s regions at your own pace on a self-drive tour.

Go Beyond Melbourne

Travel from Melbourne to the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges, Phillip Island and on to the white beaches and wineries of the Mornington and Bellarine Peninsulas. Put together a three-, four- or five-day journey winding through lush valleys and pristine coastal landscapes.

Sydney–Melbourne Touring Routes

Chart a course from Melbourne to Sydney (via Canberra) on the Heritage Drive, exploring historic gold rush towns, award-winning vineyards and the mighty Murray River along the way. Alternatively, the 1160-kilometre Coastal Drive hugs the southeast coast of Australia, taking in national parks, pristine beaches and amazing native wildlife.

Great Southern Touring Route

The 850-kilometre Great Southern Touring Route takes in the breathtaking beauty of the Great Ocean Road, rich Aboriginal culture in the Grampians and the intriguing history of the Goldfields.

Great Alpine Road

The Great Alpine Road extends from the High Country region to East Gippsland, winding through lofty mountains, pine forests, bushland and past rivers, vineyards and farms. The 308-kilometre touring route got its name for being the mountain equivalent of Victoria’s famous Great Ocean Road.

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Toll Roads

Some major roads around Melbourne carry tolls, which means you need to pay to use them. If you use the CityLink or EastLink toll roads, you’ll need to pay in advance or within three days of travel via the applicable operator’s website (see below). Alternatively, you can call CityLink or EastLink (see website for phone numbers) to make a payment over the phone, or purchase a pass over the counter at a post office.

If you are hiring a car, check with your hire company to see if toll payments are taken care of as part of the hire fee. w citylink.com.au w eastlink.com.au

Get Touring

The best way to get around Melbourne and the surrounding regions is with a great-value rental car. Enterprise Rent-ACar will have you sorted with a comfortable and safe car that’s the right size for your travel party and suitable for the terrain you’ll be driving through while sightseeing.

Vehicle pick-up and drop-off is available at Melbourne Airport, in the city on Little Collins Street and in South Melbourne on Thistlewaite Street. t 1300 035 807 w enterpriserentacar.com.au

Great Ocean Road

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Halls Gap

Grampians

Bendigo

Ararat

He Castlemaine

Daylesford

Creswick

Dunkeld

Ballarat

Woodend

Daylesford & The Macedon Ranges

Geelong & The Bellarine Peninsula

Me Geelong

Portarlington

Ocean Grove Torquay

Warrnambool

Great Ocean Road

Apollo Bay

Mornington Peninsula

12 Apostles

Distance from Melbourne Geelong & The Bellarine Bendigo Ballarat

The Murray

Mornington Peninsula

Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

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75km / 47mi 147km / 91mi 115km / 71mi 214km / 133mi 55km / 34mi 60km / 37mi

Gippsland

Great Ocean Road

188km / 117mi 207km / 128mi

Phillip Island

142km / 88mi

High Country

308km / 191mi

Daylesford & Macedon Ranges Grampians

113km / 70mi 254km / 158mi

So

The Murray

Bright Mount Beauty

Nagambie

eathcote

High Country

MansďŹ eld

Marysville Healesville

elbourne

n

Myrtleford

Shepparton

Echuca

Port Phillip Bay

orrento

Yarra Valley & Dandenong Ranges

Lakes Entrance

Gippsland

French Island

Regional Victoria

Phillip Island

Mt Baw Baw

Wonthaggi Inverloch Wilsons Promotory

Regional

Victoria

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Alfred Sisley, The Seine at Sures nes, c.1874

A Season of Regional Art Hop Lane

Spring in Ballarat is characterised by the blooming of arts and culture. This season, make the journey to this historic goldfields city.

Celebrate Art

Dine in Heritage

Feast your eyes on one of the city’s historic eateries where you can dine in heritage surroundings while enjoying locally sourced

Discover the Hidden Gems

Explore Ballarat’s ever-increasing offering of galleries and museums. Head to The Lost Ones Gallery and delight in the contemporary and quirky art housed in a 19th-century Masonic Lodge, or admire the work of budding artists at the Post Office Gallery.

Cafe Brilliance

Settle in to one of our prized cafes for a hearty and cosy lunch.

Find your spot at Kittelty’s for home-cooking at its best, or visit Webster’s Market and Café for a premium caffeine hit accompanied by contemporary cuisine.

Getting Here

Jump aboard a V/Line train from Melbourne’s Southern Cross Station and you’ll arrive in the heart of the CBD in just over an hour, with a gorgeous view of the countryside along the way.

For more information, call the number or visit the website below. t 1800 44 66 33 w visitballarat.com.au

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Regional Victoria

This spring, the Biennale of Australian Art takes over the city, with 150 artists from across Australia exhibiting their work in various venues around Ballarat.

Head to the Art Gallery of Ballarat, Australia’s oldest regional art gallery. Located on one of the city’s most beautiful boulevards, the gallery will have you in awe.

Make sure to check out the gallery’s Into Light exhibition, featuring French masterpieces.

and produced fare. Restaurants such as Craig’s Royal Hotel, Moon & Mountain and The Forge, or bars like Mitchell Harris Wines and Hop Temple, are housed in historic locales with fascinating stories to tell.

Moon & Mountain

Craig’s Royal Hotel Ballarat

Located on historic Lydiard Street, Craig’s is the legendary Australian gold-rush era grand hotel. Sample the best in local produce in The Gallery restaurant or indulge in our famous high tea in the stunning ballroom.

Experience the extraordinary.

10 Lydiard Street South, Ballarat t 03 5331 1377 w craigsroyal.com.au Find us on:

Sovereign Hill

Sovereign Hill brings to life the colour and excitement of Australia’s 1850s goldrush. Pan for gold then journey underground on a mine tour. See a spectacular $160,000 gold pour and watch lost trades in action. Meet costumed characters and tour the township in a horsedrawn carriage.

Open daily: 10am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day) Bradshaw Street, Ballarat t 03 5337 1199 w sovereignhill.com.au Find us on:

Ballarat Wildlife Park

Meet Australia’s famous native animals including kangaroos, koalas, wombats and reptiles. See Tasmanian devils and Crunch, our fivemetre super croc. Don’t miss the little penguins and meerkats.

There’s a daily guided tour and engaging animal keeper talks.

250 Fussell Street, Ballarat East t 03 5333 5933 w wildlifepark.com.au Find us on:

Art Gallery of Ballarat

Discover great Australian stories at Australia’s premier regional gallery. Experience the amazing collection, with works by leading artists, or catch an exciting temporary exhibition. Join a free tour, and enjoy a coffee or lunch in Kittelty’s Café.

Open daily: 10am to 5pm, except Christmas Day and Boxing Day 40 Lydiard Street North, Ballarat t 03 5320 5858 w artgalleryofballarat.com.au Find us on:

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BOAA ART 2018 will be the largest ever showcase of living Australian artists.

Discover Australian stories of our past, present and future. BOAA ART 2018 will have a strong Aboriginal focus, and will celebrate our multiculturalism.

This six-week event will be a coming of age for Australian audiences and artists alike. + 65 solo shows + 40 outdoor sculptures + 6 performance art projects + 15 video projects + 9 landscape projects + 17 venue and locations Train: V/Line service from Southern Cross Station 115 Armstrong Street, North Ballarat Open daily: 10am to 5pm t 0417 324 795 w boaa.net.au Find us on:

Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa

Located a short 90-minute drive from Melbourne, the historic Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa is a must-visit destination.

12pm to to 2pm

The historic bathhouse has been providing traditional wellness bathing since 1895. Drawing mineral-rich waters directly from the source, this bathhouse reconnects you with an array of mineral wellness experiences, including indulgent 100 per cent pure, private mineral baths and a selection of specially designed wellness packages.

ers

Enjoy indulgences ranging from the large social bathhouse or experience the more exclusive Sanctuary bathing, which includes the aroma steam room, magnesium salt therapy pool and relaxation pool.

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Mineral Springs Reserve Road, Hepburn Springs t 03 5321 6000 e info@hepburnbathhouse.com w hepburnbathhouse.com Find us on:

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Regional Victoria

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Biennale of Australian Art

Taste the arts in

Geelong

Archibald Prize 2018

& The Bellarine

Explore

Geelong, Victoria’s second largest city, is emerging as a go-to destination for outstanding dining, hip new cafes, a thriving waterfront, world-class events calendar and an emerging cultural scene.

The Bellarine, no more than half an hour from Geelong, is surrounded by water, dotted with small seaside villages, sprawling beaches and award-winning wineries and producers.

See

Spring sees Australia’s favourite art award, and one of its most prestigious, reside at the Geelong Gallery. The 2018 Archibald Prize will be on display from September to November.

It’s a who’s who of Australian culture, with subjects including celebrities, authors and artists.

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The world-wide Toast to the Coast phenomenon that is White Night has cemented itself as an annual fixture in Melbourne’s nightlife and in 2018 White Night will light 22 September – 18 November up Geelong's darkness along its Archibald Prize cultural hub in October.

Geelong Gallery Artists from all over the world will descend on Queenscliff for the 13 October ever-popular Queenscliff Music White Night Geelong Festival. Take pole position for 3–4 November the quarter mile sprints along the Toast to the Coast waterfront at the Geelong Revival Various wineries on the Bellarine, Motoring Festival.

Moorabool Valley and Surf Coast

What’s On

Taste

The Geelong region's wineries are explored as venues pull out all stops for a two-day festival to celebrate the region's wine at Toast to the Coast in November. t 1800 755 611 (toll free) w visitgeelongbellarine. com.au

23–25 November Queenscliff Music Festival 23–25 November Geelong Revival Motoring Festival Geelong Waterfront Top: 2018 Archibald Prize finalist, Anne Middleton, ‘Guy’, © the artist

DOCKLANDS – PORTARLINGTON

Visit the Bellarine Escape the city for a day trip to the coast for under $30 return.

www.portphillipferries.com.au

LICENSED CAFÉ NOW ON BOARD

Bendigo Blooms Bendigo is a vibrant regional city with beautiful heritage streets, that are the legacy of one of the world’s greatest gold rushes.

Explore it’s streets to discover the heart of Bendigo.

The arts culture is led by the acclaimed Bendigo Art Gallery, and accompanied by award-winning restaurants and cafes. Relive the gold rush by visiting world-class attractions, and taste quality local wines and produce from markets, nearby farms, and surrounding vineyards. There's shopping, too, with the chance to unearth vintage fashions and collectables.

Bendigo is only a 90 minute drive from Melbourne Airport and 90 to 120 minutes via V/Line trains from Southern Cross Station.

Bendigo Visitor Centre

Open: Daily, 9am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day) 51–67 Pall Mall t 1800 813 153 w bendigotourism.com /explorebendigo @explorebendigo @explorebendigo

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Chancery Lane

Top Spring Events 01 See 30,000 of Bendigo’s famed tulips on display in Pall Mall in mid to late September.

02 Celebrate Bendigo’s music scene with more

than 140 acts across 50 venues at the Bendigo Blues and Roots Music Festival (8–11 November).

03 Bendigo’s grand heritage buildings, along with local wine and food, are celebrated at Bendigo Uncorked Week (12–20 October).

04 Meet local winemakers at the Heathcote Wine and Food Festival (6–7 October).

05 Bring your pets to the Vegecareian Festival at The Great Stupa (6 October).

For more events and experiences, visit the website below or follow Explore Bendigo on Facebook and Instagram. w bendigotourism.com

Carlton Gardens

Useful Information

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Melbourne Airport

With four terminals servicing arrivals and departures, Melbourne Airport is Victoria’s gateway to the world. More than 305 million passengers use the airport each year, and there are plenty of ways to spend your time before your plane takes off.

Terminal 1

Terminal 2

Home to Qantas’ Melbourne domestic aircraft, Terminal 1 has more than 60 retail outlets, offering a broad range of products and services. Whether it’s the latest fashions, a new magazine or just some travel essentials, there’s something for everyone.

The transformation of our Terminal 2 luxury precinct is now completed. Showcasing the sophisticated essence of Melbourne city, all 11 world-class retailers are ready for travellers to explore a range of luxury goods.

Fashion labels such as Victoria’s Secret, Mimco and Sunglass Hut will ensure you’re suitably dressed for any occasion, while restaurant Billie Chu brings a taste of Asia to travellers, offering a range of exciting dishes. Throw in a number of other cafes, bars and fast food outlets, and there’s a meal for any traveller.

This international terminal houses some of the most fashionable and desirable brands in the world, including Tiffany & Co, Burberry, Salvatore Ferragamo, Max Mara, Emporio Armani, Watches of Switzerland, Bally, Michael Kors, Hugo Boss, Furla and Tumi.

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Terminal 2

Adjacent to the luxury precinct is our nextgeneration Melbourne Duty Free and a variety of new shopping and dining experiences. Reflecting the Melburnian food and coffee culture, our restaurants and bars feature culinary delights from some of the city’s most celebrated chefs, serving up an authentic taste of the city.

Terminal 3

Virgin Australia operates from Terminal 3, which is located at the left end of the main airport building, directly adjacent to the International Terminal.

One of the most popular venues in the airport is PJ O’Brien’s Irish pub, with Able Baker Charlie another favourite for authentic Italian food.

Terminal 4

Among the extensive list of retailers are household names Country Road, Witchery, Mimco and Peter Alexander. One of Melbourne’s favourite eateries, Brunetti Café, is also on hand to provide a tasty way to spend your time before flying off on your Jetstar, Tigerair or Regional Express flight. w melbourneairport.com.au Terminal 2

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Useful Information

Terminal 4 was opened in August 2015 and features new technology, including automated check-in kiosks and bag-drop facilities, as well as an expanded departure lounge and more shopping and food choices.

Getting into

Melbourne After touching down at Melbourne or Avalon Airport, you have a number of options for making your way into the city.

SkyBus

SkyBus operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and provides an express service every 10 minutes from Melbourne Airport to Southern Cross Station in the city. There are three SkyBus stops just outside Terminal 1, Terminal 3 and Terminal 4. Tickets can be bought online and shown to the driver in paper form or on your smartphone. Alternatively, you can visit one of the SkyBus ticket booths near the terminals. For a one-way trip to the city, it costs $20 per adult and $20 to $38 for families. w skybus.com.au

Starbus

Starbus Melbourne Shuttle Service offers transfers from Melbourne Airport to your accommodation in the CBD or inner suburbs. The service runs seven days a week from 6am to 7pm, with departures every 15 minutes between 6am and 7pm then every half hour until 9pm.

The Starbus leaves from Bus Zone L (otherwise known as Groups and Charters). Bookings can be made online or via phone. The price for a one-way trip to the city is $20. w starbusshuttle.com.au

Taxi

You can catch a taxi from designated taxi ranks located on the ground floor outside Terminal 1 and between Terminals 2 and 3 at Melbourne Airport.

If you’ve pre-ordered a taxi to pick you up from the airport, the driver will park in the short-term car park and should meet you at the baggage carousel.

Taxi fares vary based on distance, location and time of travel. You can use the taxi fare estimator on the Taxi Services Commission’s website to obtain an approximate cost. w taxi.vic.gov.au

Hire Car

If you like the idea of deciding where you want to go and for how long, then a hire car from one of the many car hire companies. Pick up the keys to your temporary set of wheels and let the adventure begin.

Avalon Arrivals

If you’re flying into Avalon Airport, you can catch a ride to Southern Cross Station in the city on a SkyBus Avalon Express. Meeting all departing and arriving flights, the service offers access to free Wi-Fi and easy ticketing options. You can buy tickets online or at dedicated e-kiosks at Avalon Airport or Southern Cross Station. One-way tickets are $22 for adults (or $42 return) and children 16 and under travel free when booked with an adult fare. Avalon Airport also has a taxi rank directly outside the terminal.

For travellers heading to Geelong, Bellarine or the Surf Coast, SkyBus also offers a SkyBus Geelong Express. Tickets are available at the SkyBus ticket counter at Avalon Airport and a one-way journey costs $18 for an adult. Skybus has reached an agreement with Geelong Taxi Network to provide pick-up and drop-off services throughout Geelong, Bellarine and the Surf Coast for reservations made through SkyBus on 5278 8788. w skybus.com.au

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SkyBus Airport Transfers SkyBus operates a world-class, budget-friendly airport transfer to and from Melbourne Airport 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Our Southbank, Docklands, St Kilda and Peninsula Express services operate seven days a week.

SkyBus Western Express from Werribee and Tarneit launched in July. SkyBus meets every flight at Avalon Airport.

Enjoy free Wi-Fi, unlimited luggage and free travel for kids on all family tickets.

SkyBus Link is a free transfer service between Southern Cross Station and accommodation in Melbourne’s city centre, available to all Melbourne City Express and Avalon City Express passengers.

24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

Melbourne Airport at kerbside (T1, T3 & T4 outside arrivals) CBD SkyBus Gateway Terminal at Southern Cross Station t 1300 SKYBUS w skybus.com.au Find us on:

Avalon Airport

If you want to touch down and drive straight out to enjoy the sights, choose Avalon Airport. Avalon is the most efficient and economical airport in Australia.

It’s only 40 minutes from Melbourne’s CBD, which is now easier than ever to reach through SkyBus Avalon City Express.

Avalon Airport is also the closest international airport to the Great Ocean Road, Bells Beach, Geelong and the 12 Apostles.

Bus: SkyBus Avalon City Express to/from Southern Cross Station via Werribee, or SkyBus Geelong Express to/from Geelong, the Bellarine and the Surf Coast.

Open: Daily, 4am to midnight 80 Beach Road, Lara t 03 5227 9100 w avalonairport.com.au Find us on:

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Useful Information

Drive straight up the highway, park out the front, grab a drink or meal and stay connected with free Wi-Fi, while charging all your devices in comfort right by the gate. It really is flying made easy.

Getting Around From trams and trains to bike hire and ferries, here’s all you need to know about getting around Melbourne.

Tickets

myki is a reusable travel card — your ticket for trains, trams and buses in Melbourne and many parts of regional Victoria. To get started, buy a myki Explorer pack or myki card.

myki Explorer

Enjoy a ready-to-use myki card with one day’s unlimited travel on public transport in Melbourne.

Your pack also includes handy maps, a souvenir wallet and discounts to lots of our favourite places.

If you want to keep travelling, just top up your myki at a huge range of shops, myki machines or online.

To find out where to buy yours, visit the website below. w ptv.vic.gov.au/mykiexplorer

Buy Your myki Card and Top Up

You can buy and top up your myki at a huge range of shops (including all 7-Eleven stores), myki machines and station ticket offices. As a guide, $10 will get you around Melbourne for a day, with a little change.

For more on fares, visit the website below. w ptv.vic.gov.au/fares

Plan Your Journey

Download the PTV app or visit the website below to plan your journey and get real-time travel updates. w ptv.vic.gov.au

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Free Tram Travel

The Free Tram Zone includes the city centre and extends from Queen Victoria Market to Docklands, Spring Street, Flinders Street Station and Federation Square (see the Melbourne tram map on page 130).

If you’re only travelling in the Free Tram Zone you don’t need a myki.

Travel on the City Circle Tram is also free. Hop on and off the historic trams as often as you like. You don’t need a myki if you’re only travelling on the City Circle Tram.

Regional Victoria

With the largest public transport network in Australia, Victoriaʼs trains and coaches can take you to many parts of regional Victoria. Simply make your way to V/Lineʼs passenger hub at Southern Cross Station and the staff will help you plan your next adventure.

PTV Hubs

To find out more about public transport in Melbourne and Victoria, visit a PTV Hub at Southern Cross Station or 750 Collins Street, Docklands.

Night Network

Explore the night with the Night Network on weekends. Public transport runs all night on weekends for metropolitan trains, some trams and buses, with coaches running to regional towns from 2am. Stay out longer and enjoy Melbourne’s vibrant nightlife, popular hot spots and special events throughout the year. w ptv.vic.gov.au/nightnetwork

SkyBus

SkyBus is a direct service between Southern Cross Station and Melbourne Airport that operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The buses depart every 10 minutes in both directions and stop at Terminals 1, 3 and 4. If you’re heading to Southbank, Docklands, St Kilda, Elsternwick, Elwood, Brighton, Frankston or Mornington Peninsula, SkyBus runs services to these areas. w skybus.com.au

Bike Hire

Melbourne Bike Share allows locals and visitors aged 15 and older to hire a set of wheels (and helmet) from one of 50 public bike racks across the CBD. You can borrow and return bikes at any of the racks across the borrowing network. Bikes can be hired for as little as $3 per day and $8 per week (providing you with unlimited 30-minute trips) using VISA or Mastercard. For everything you need to know about the bike sharing program, including pricing and rack locations, visit the website. w melbournebikeshare.com.au

Melbourne Water Taxis

Catching a Melbourne Water Taxi can be a smart way to beat the traffic or simply enjoy a scenic ride to your destination. There’s a regular service between Southgate, Rod Laver Arena, Melbourne Park and the MCG for major events, such as football matches and concerts. Water taxis operate on the Yarra and Maribyrnong Rivers seven days a week, day and night. w melbournewatertaxis.com.au

Taxis

Taxis can be hired off the street, from designated taxi ranks or by phone/online bookings. There are taxi ranks all over the CBD (refer to the Melbourne City map on the inside back cover), including four safe-city taxi ranks for late-night travellers. Taxi fares vary based on distance, location and time of travel. You can use the taxi fare estimator on the Taxi Services Commission’s website to obtain an approximate cost. Between 10pm and 5am, Victorian taxi drivers are allowed to ask for an upfront deposit for the trip fare. Melbourne’s major taxi companies are 13 CABS and Silvertop Taxis.

Uber is another way to get around Melbourne.

Download the Uber app on your smartphone then book a driver. Although they are generally more affordable than taxis, Uber can implement surge charging at busy times. w taxi.vic.gov.au w 13cabs.com.au w silvertop.com.au w uber.com/en-au

Useful Information 129

Name

Copy here

Transport: Number xx to stop xx Open: Mon–Fri, X.XXam to Xpm & Sat–Sun/ public holidays, XXam to Xpm Address t 9999 9999 w website.com.au /name

130

Driving around town Road Rules

Traffic laws in Victoria may be different to those in your home city. Below are some of the major traffic rules that apply in Victoria to keep road users safe and ensure traffic flows efficiently. ++ Drivers are required to carry a licence at all times. International Driver Licences are acceptable for up to three months, however you will require a Victorian Drivers Licence after this period. ++ Australians drive on the left-hand side of the road, which can be initially disconcerting for visitors used to driving on the right. ++ Drivers and passengers are required to wear seatbelts. Infants must be restrained in baby capsules and small children in an appropriate booster seat.

++ Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol carries serious penalties. In Australia, you are not permitted to drive a car if your blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is 0.05 or higher. If you hold a probationary or provisional driver’s licence, your blood alcohol level must be zero at all times.

Traffic Near Trams

Cars share the roads with trams on many streets within Melbourne. With these trams come some important rules about driving near them: ++ Tram lanes are designated by a tram lane sign (that may indicate hours of operation) and continuous yellow line.

You must not drive in a tram lane during the times it is operational, except for up to 50 metres before turning, so long as you do not obstruct the progress of a tram. ++ You may only overtake a tram on the left. ++ Do not drive past the rear of a tram stopped at a tram stop (where there is no safety zone, dividing strip or traffic island). ++ You must stop level with the rear of the tram and wait for people to get on and off.

The tram doors must be closed again before proceeding.

Bicycle Lanes

Bicycle lanes are indicated by a bicycle lane sign and a continuous or broken white line. You must not drive in a bicycle lane during the times it is operational, except for up to 50 metres before turning or when parking.

Some particular driving manoeuvres that are used in Melbourne are described below.

Hook Turns

Due to tramlines running down the middle of major city streets, there are some intersections where cars turning right need to do so from the left lane. The vehicle remains there until the traffic lights for the road it’s entering turn green, then carefully executes its turn. See the website below for a short video demonstration of how to perform a hook turn. w onlymelbourne.com.au

U-turns

To perform a U-turn, a driver makes a 180-degree turn to head back in the direction from which they came. The simple rule to remember is drivers performing U-turns are required to give way to other vehicles and pedestrians. In Victoria, drivers are allowed to make U-turns at intersections with or without traffic signals and at breaks in the median unless there is a ‘No U-turn’ sign.

Visit the VicRoads website For more information about Victoria’s road laws and guidelines for appropriate child restraints. w vicroads.vic.gov.au

131

Useful Information

++ Speed limits are clearly marked (generally 50km/h or 60 km/h in built-up areas and 100 km/h on open roads) and police operate speed safety cameras across Victoria.

Driving is an efficient way to get around during your time in Melbourne, so read on to familiarise yourself with our road rules before taking to the street.

City of

Melbourne Visitor Services

Visitors will find much to love in Melbourne. On every street and laneway, there are shopping, dining and cultural experiences to discover. It’s all here — let a local show you the way.

Melbourne Visitor Services

Melbourne visitor services are your key to unlocking the secrets of the city and getting the most out of your visit to Melbourne. With key hubs around the city, pop-up services at premier events and roving ambassadors in some of our most visited areas, you’re never too far away from helpful, local advice.

Let the friendly staff and volunteers give you their tips on the must-visit bars and restaurants, shopping, key attractions and events not to miss in Melbourne.

Find us at: ++ Melbourne Visitor Booth ++ Melbourne Visitor Hub at Town Hall ++ Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre ++ City Ambassadors ++ Queen Victoria Market Visitor Hub

Melbourne Visitor Hub at Town Hall

Located within the historic Melbourne Town Hall, this hub is close to the retail, dining and laneways for which Melbourne is revered. City Ambassadors can help you plan your time in Melbourne and share tips only a local would know, as well as providing maps, advice on public transport connections and access to free Wi-Fi. Open daily, 9am to 6pm (closed Christmas Day)

134

Melbourne Visitor Booth in Bourke Street Mall

Friendly volunteers at the Melbourne Visitor Booth provide free maps and information on shopping, attractions and what’s on in Melbourne, from the centre of this busy retail strip.

Open daily, 9am to 5pm (closed Good Friday and Christmas Day)

Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre

Make this hub your first stop when visiting the heritage-listed Fitzroy Gardens. Find out about the picturesque surrounds, current events and attractions, purchase your Cooks’ Cottage tickets, and pause to enjoy the cafe and free Wi-Fi. Open daily, 9am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day)

Queen Victoria Market Visitor Hub

Visit the hub in String Bean Alley at the Queen Victoria Market or seek out our ambassadors in their eye-catching, red uniforms to receive trusted, local advice on how to best explore the sights and delights of the market and beyond.

Open market days: Tue and Thu, 10am to 1pm; Fri–Sun, 9am to 3pm

Fitzroy Gardens Visitor Centre

City Ambassadors

Dressed in their distinctive red uniforms, City Ambassadors provide a mobile information service in the city and can help with advice on shopping, events and how to get around.

Mon–Sat, 10am to 4pm; Sun, 11.30am to 3pm (excluding Good Friday and Christmas Day)

Melbourne Greeter Service

Free two- to four-hour walking orientations of the city are conducted by trained volunteers. Orientations in English depart daily at 9.30am. Orientations in other languages are available upon request.

Bookings are essential, phone 9658 9658 on weekdays and 9658 9942 on weekends or visit the website for further information.

Melbourne Town Hall Tours

Mon, Wed–Fri, 11am and 1pm (excluding public holidays)

Cooks’ Cottage

A visit to the family-friendly Cooks’ Cottage in the heritage-listed Fitzroy Gardens is a must when exploring Melbourne. Step back in time and learn about life in the 18th century. Dress up in traditional costumes and surround yourself with centuries-old antiques. Stroll through a delightful English cottage garden, and find out about James Cook’s adventures.

Open daily, 9am to 5pm (closed Christmas Day) For ticket prices and more information visit the What’s On website.

24/7 Guide to What’s On in Melbourne For more information on events, restaurants, shopping destinations and things to do in Melbourne City visit the dedicated What’s On website. Share your favourite city experiences using #melbmoment.

Explore Melbourne in Chinese

For the latest updates on what’s going on in Melbourne, including upcoming events and opportunities, search CityofMelb in the WeChat app to subscribe. t 03 9658 9658 e visitor@melbourne.vic.gov.au w whatson.melbourne.vic.gov.au/visitors /whatsonmelb @whatsonmelb @whatsonmelb

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Useful Information

Free one-hour tours of the historic Melbourne Town Hall give visitors the chance to learn about the architectural, social and political significance of this impressive 19th-century building.

Cooks’ Cottage

Traveller

Tips Wondering where to get your hands on visitor information, buy tickets to a show or what to do in an emergency? Here is a handy reference guide and tips to help your trip run smoothly.

Time Zone

Melbourne is located in the Australian Eastern Time zone.

Standard Time is UTC/GMT +10 hours. Daylight Saving Time is UTC/GMT +11 hours and commences at 2am on 1 October.

Weather

During spring (September to November), Melbourne’s average temperatures during the day are 10 to 20ºC (49 to 67ºF). For daily forecasts, check the Bureau of Meteorology (BOM) website. w bom.gov.au

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Luggage Lockers

Be Sun Smart

Various sized lockers are available at Southern Cross Station and hire ranges from $6 to $12 for 24 hours. Travellers Aid offers short-term luggage storage at Flinders Street Station between 8am and 8pm daily (same day only, not overnight). For costs, visit the website.

w sunsmart.com.au

Lockers are available for hire at several locations throughout Melbourne.

w southerncrossstation.com.au/ luggage-services w travellersaid.org.au

Too much of the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation can cause painful sunburn. Australia has some of the highest UV levels in the world, so it is important to apply sunscreen and wear protective clothing such as a shirt, hat and sunglasses if you’re spending time outdoors. Visit the SunSmart Victoria website to check the daily UV index and alerts.

Smoking Laws

Victoria has strict laws on where people are permitted to smoke tobacco as well as e-cigarettes and personal vaporisers.

Smoking is not allowed in or around non-enclosed drinking and eating venues, outdoor areas where food is served (alfresco dining), train stations and platforms, public transport, cars carrying passengers under the age of 18 years, shopping centres, and enclosed spaces that are workplaces (to protect the health of employees, customers and public).

QV Melbourne and The Tan running track have also been declared smoke-free precincts.

Visit the website below for full details of smoke-free locations and smoking laws in Melbourne. w melbourne.vic.gov.au

Accessible Melbourne

Improving accessibility to Melbourne’s public transport, visitor attractions, events, venues and amenities for people with special mobility needs is a major priority of the Victorian Government and City Council.

Maps and Resources

The City of Melbourne offers downloadable Mobility Maps on its website covering the different city precincts. Lonely Planet also offers a free Accessible Melbourne e-book packed with tips and recommendations for travellers with special needs.

Other useful online resources for accessible travel and recreation throughout Victoria and Australia are provided by Australia For All and NICAN. w melbourne.vic.gov.au w lonelyplanet.com/ accessible-melbourne w australiaforall.com w nican.com.au

Travellers Aid

The below support numbers can be of service during an emergency.

Emergency Services (Police, Fire, Ambulance) 000 Lifeline (Counselling/crisis support) 131 114 Poisons Information 131 126 Nurse-On-Call 1300 606 024

Police Stations Melbourne East 226 Flinders Lane, Melbourne East 03 9637 1100

Melbourne West 313 Spencer Street, Docklands 03 8690 4444

Major Hospitals

Epworth Hospital 89 Bridge Road, Richmond 03 9426 6666 Royal Melbourne Hospital 300 Grattan Street, Parkville 03 9342 7000 St. Vincent’s Health 41 Victoria Parade, Fitzroy 03 9288 2211

Useful Information

Assistance and Support Travellers Aid provides travelrelated support and aid, including accessible toilets, showers, equipment loan and a rest area.

It provides advice and assistance to older and frail people, and people with disabilities to ensure safe passage. This not-for-profit operation has been helping travellers for almost 100 years.

Some services attract a small fee, but many are performed free of charge by staff and volunteers. Travellers Aid is located at Southern Cross Station (open seven days from 6.30am to 9.30pm) and Flinders Street Station (open seven days from 8am to 8pm).

In an Emergency

The Alfred Hospital 55 Commercial Road, St Kilda 03 9076 2000 The Royal Children’s Hospital 50 Flemington Road, Parkville 03 9345 5522

w travellersaid.org.au

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Flinders Lane

Shopping and Bank Hours

As a general guide, large shopping centres and specialty stores are open from 9am to 5.30pm, Monday to Saturday (except Friday where stores tend to stay open longer). Sunday shopping centre opening hours are usually 10am to 5pm.

Most banks are open 9.30am to 4pm Monday to Thursday and 9.30am to 5pm Friday. Most banks are closed on weekends.

ATMs are operational 24 hours.

Currency Exchange

The currency used throughout Australia is the Australian dollar (AUD). Foreign money can be exchanged for Australian dollars at banks and currency exchange desks at the airport and other locations (such as currency kiosks at shopping centres) around Melbourne.

Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS)

A 10% goods and services tax (GST) is incorporated into the price of all goods and services, except some basic items, sold in Australia. Under the Tourist Refund Scheme (TRS) you can claim a refund of the GST and wine equalisation tax (WET) that you pay on goods you have purchased during your stay.

To claim a refund you must: ++ Spend $300 (GST inclusive) or more in the one store and retain your invoices ++ Have purchased the goods no more than 60 days before your departure from Australia ++ Wear or carry the goods on board the aircraft or ship and present them along with your original tax invoice, passport and international boarding pass to a Customs and Border Protection Officer at a TRS facility. w border.gov.au

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Tipping

Unlike other countries, tipping is not customary and generally not expected, although it is appreciated.

City Postal Services

Melbourne GPO 250 Elizabeth Street, Melbourne Mon–Fri, 8.30am to 5.30pm & Sat, 9am to 5pm. w auspost.com.au

Visa Information

For comprehensive information about visitor visas, bridging visas and transit visas, visit the Australian Government’s Department of Immigration and Border Protection website. w border.gov.au

Consulates

All of the following countries have consulates in Melbourne: China

03 9822 0604

France

03 9690 6075

Germany

03 9642 8088

Greece

03 9866 4524

India

03 9384 0141

Indonesia

03 9525 2755

Italy

03 9867 5744

Japan

03 9679 4510

United Kingdom 03 9652 1600 USA

03 9526 5900

Fast and Free Wi-Fi

Free public Wi-Fi is available in Melbourne CBD, including CBD train stations, Bourke Street Mall, Queen Victoria Market and South Wharf Promenade at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre.

The VicFreeWiFi pilot is managed and maintained by telecommunications company TPG and allows for the download of up to 250MB per device, per day. It also does not require personal information or feature pop-up advertising.

To login to VicFreeWiFi: 1. Look up available networks on your device 2. Select 'VicFreeWiFi' 3. Accept the terms and conditions VicFreeWiFi is also available in two regional Victorian cities: central Ballarat and central Bendigo.

As you explore Melbourne CBD use VicFreeWiFi to contact family and friends, book accommodation, get directions, book tickets to events or find restaurants and cafes.

Visit the website below to find your nearest outdoor VicFreeWiFi hotspot. w vic.gov.au/wifi

Arts Centre Melbourne Robert Blackburn

Frequently Called Country Codes

Australia 61 Canada 1 China 86 Germany 49 Greece 30 Indonesia 62 Ireland 353 Italy 39 Japan 81 New Zealand 64 Spain 34 Taiwan 886 UK 44 USA 1

Public phone boxes are dotted throughout the city and can be used for local, interstate and international calls (mobile and landline numbers). Local calls cost 50 cents, while long-distance calls are charged depending on duration. You can use either coins or prepaid phone cards.

Alternatively, prepaid SIM cards for mobile phones can be purchased at retailers across the city. To make an international phone call, dial 0011 (the international access code), then the country code followed by the telephone number, including area code.

Ticket Booking Services Tickets for major events, theatre productions, exhibitions and attractions can be booked and bought through a number of vendors, including Ticketek and Ticketmaster.

Halftix is a great way to save money on last-minute bookings.

Located in the Melbourne Town Hall Administration Building on Swanston Street, Halftix sells tickets to events on the day at a discount.

Arts Centre Melbourne also has a Tixatsix offer. At 6pm each night, at least 20 tickets become available for selected evening performances for just $30. Tickets must be booked in person from the Box Office on level five of the Theatres Building. w ticketek.com.au w ticketmaster.com.au w halftixmelbourne.com w artscentremelbourne.com.au

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Useful Information

Hong Kong 852

Public Phones

8 Bit

Frequently Asked

Questions New to Melbourne? Here are the answers to common travel questions.

Where can I rent a car in Melbourne?

Enterprise Rent-A-Car will have you sorted with a comfortable and safe car that’s the right size for your travel party and suitable for the terrain you’ll be driving through while sight-seeing. Vehicle pick-up and drop-off is available at Melbourne Airport, in the city on Little Collins Street and in South Melbourne on Thistlewaite Street. t 1300 668 810 w enterpriserentacar.com.au

What’s the best way to get around the city? What are the public transport options in Melbourne?

Melbourne’s public transport system is an ideal (and cost-effective) way to explore every pocket of the city and further afield. The extensive train, tram and bus network stretches from the city into surrounding suburbs and regional areas.

For more information about public transport, refer to page 128.

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What type of ticket do I need to use public transport in Melbourne?

myki is the name of Melbourne’s public transport ticketing system and covers travel on trains, trams and buses. International and interstate visitors can purchase a myki Explorer Pack that includes: a myki smartcard (a credit card-sized plastic card that is effectively your ticket) pre-loaded with enough credit for one day’s unlimited travel in metropolitan Melbourne; instructions on how to use myki; handy maps; discount offers at many tourist attractions (more than $200 value); and souvenir wallet. A full fare pack for an adult is $15; child and concession packs are $7.50.

The myki Explorer Pack is available from the PTV Hub at Southern Cross Station and SkyBus terminals at Melbourne Airport and Southern Cross Station.

Are there any free ways to travel around the city?

Melbourne has a Free Tram Zone in the CBD and Docklands. You don’t need a myki to ride any tram in this zone. However, if you travel anywhere outside this zone, you will need to touch on with a valid myki card. See the map on the inside back cover for zone boundaries.

You can also see Melbourne on the free City Circle Tram, an iconic W-Class tram that travels past major attractions and shops. If you’re only travelling on the City Circle Tram, you don't need a myki.

Where can I find public bathrooms or accessible public bathrooms around Melbourne?

Public bathrooms can be found throughout the city.

For locations, please refer to the map on the inside back cover.

Where can I find travel-related assistance and help?

Travellers Aid Access Services operates from both Southern Cross and Flinders Street train stations, offering personal care and assistance for senior, disabled or disadvantaged travellers, as well as information, referrals for accommodation, showers, rest facilities, internet access, and transport and travel information. Travellers Aid Access Services at Southern Cross are available weekdays from 10am to 5pm and weekends from 11am to 4pm.

The Flinders Street service is open seven days from 8am to 8pm. w travellersaid.org.au

Travellers Aid

Where can I buy discounted tickets to shows and events?

Halftix is a great way to save money on last-minute bookings. Located in the Melbourne Town Hall Administration Building on Swanston Street, Halftix sells tickets to events on the day at a discount.

Arts Centre Melbourne also has a Tixatsix offer.

At 6pm each night, at least 20 tickets become available for selected evening performances for just $30. Tickets must be booked in person from the Box Office on level five of the Theatres Building.

Where can I get face-to-face information about what to do and how to get around Melbourne?

Collins Street

City Ambassadors and the Melbourne Greeter Service are local experts who know everything there is to know about Melbourne. They offer useful advice and assistance and can be found at a variety of locations. For more information, refer to page 134. You can also visit a PTV Hub at Southern Cross Station or at 750 Collins Street for public transport information.

141

Useful Information

w halftixmelbourne.com w artscentremelbourne.com.au/tixatsix

Advertiser Index Shop Central Equity Apartments

30

Gardens of the Dandenong Ranges

85

Collins Place

40

Gumbaya World

70

Collins234 38

Healesville Sanctuary

81

DFO South Wharf

34

Last Minute Day Tours

86

Downies Coins & Collectables

39

Live Wire Park

77

Green Olive at Red Hill

30

Luna Park Melbourne

91

Johnston Jewellers

39

Mandela My Life: The Official Exhibition 2

Lightning Ridge Opal Mines

34

Melbourne Cricket Ground

83

Melbourne Airport Shopping

32

Melbourne Cup Carnival

73

Queen Victoria Market

31

Melbourne River Cruises

75

Spencer Outlet Centre

41

Melbourne Star Observation Wheel

76

Spoilt Gift & Homewares

30

Melbourne Zoo

81

The District Docklands

35

Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park

71

Old Melbourne Gaol

88

Parliament House

84

Phillip Island Nature Parks

89

Port Phillip Ferries

75

Puffing Billy Railway

91

RAAF Museum Point Cook

84

Royal Botanic Gardens Victoria

82

SEA LIFE Melbourne

74

St Kilda Esplanade Market

68

Sunny Ridge

84

The Q Train

80

Werribee Open Range Zoo

81

William Ricketts Sanctuary

75

Eat & Drink Bridge Road Richmond

45

Pilgrim Bar

44

Riverland Bar

44

Secret Kitchen CBD

45

Southgate 50 The Boatbuilders Yard

44

The General Assembly

44

The Hotel Windsor

45

Arts & Culture Arts Centre Melbourne

63

Mao's Last Dancer, Immigration Museum

64

Melbourne Theatre Company

65

Old Treasury Building

56

Opera Australia’s Die Meistersinger von Nürnberg

56

Opera Australia’s La Bohème 56 Queensland Ballet’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream 55 Shrine of Remembrance

65

State Library Victoria

57

The Art of Dr. Suess Collection, Harvey Galleries

61

The Australian Ballet’s Spartacus 60

See & Do ACMI

89

Arthurs Seat Eagle

71

Arts Centre Melbourne Sunday Market

71

ArtVo

82

BalloonMan 69 Bunyip Tours

69

City Circle Tram

77

City River Cruises Melbourne

71

Colonial Tramcar Restaurant

84

Crown Melbourne Eureka Skydeck

142

90 148

Regional Victoria Art Gallery of Ballarat

118

Ballarat Wildlife Park

118

Biennale of Australian Art

119

City of Greater Bendigo

122

Craig's Royal Hotel

118

Geelong & The Bellarine

120

Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa

119

Port Phillip Ferries

121

Sovereign Hill

118

V/Line 111 Visit Ballarat

117

Useful Information Avalon Airport

127

SkyBus 127

Accommodation Index Refer to maps on pages 144-147 Melbourne CITY MAP

GRID REF

31

QT Melbourne | 03 8636 8800

E2

1

Adelphi Hotel | 03 8080 8888

E3

32

Rydges Melbourne | 03 9662 0511

F2

2

Atlantis Hotel Melbourne | 03 9600 2900

C2

33

Sheraton Melbourne Hotel | 1800 450 010

F2

3

Batman's Hill On Collins | 03 9614 6344

C3

34

Stamford Plaza Melbourne | 03 9659 1000

F2

4

City Limits Hotel Apartments | 03 9662 2544

F2

35

The Hotel Windsor | 03 9633 6002

F2

5

Crossley Hotel Melbourne | 03 9639 1639

F2

36

The Langham, Melbourne | 1800 858 662

E3

6

Crown Metropol Melbourne | 03 9292 6211

C4

37

The Paramount Serviced Apartments | 03 9251 5555

F2

7

Crown Promenade Melbourne | 03 9292 6688

D4

38

The Sebel Melbourne Docklands | 03 9641 7500

B1

8

Crown Towers Melbourne | 03 9292 6868

D3

39

The Westin Melbourne | 1800 450 010

E3

9

DoubleTree by Hilton Melbourne — Flinders Street 03 9654 6888

E3

40

Treasury On Collins Apartment Hotel | 03 8535 8535

D2

10

Four Points by Sheraton Melbourne Docklands 1800 450 010

A1

11

Fraser Place Melbourne | 03 9669 6888

F2

12

Grand Hyatt Melbourne | 03 9657 1234

F3

13

Holiday Inn Melbourne on Flinders | 1800 HOTELS

C3

14

The Victoria Hotel | 03 9669 0000

E2

15

Jazz Corner Hotel | 03 9454 9000

D1

16

Melbourne Marriott Hotel | 1800 251 259

17

INNER Melbourne MAP

GRID REF

Abode St Kilda | 03 8598 0251

42

Amora Hotel Riverwalk Melbourne | 1800 339 436

F2

43

Bayview Eden Melbourne | 03 9250 2222

E3

44

Quest Flemington Central | 1300 929 992

B1

45

Crest On Barkly | 1800 335 318

E4

F2

46

Crest on Park (Apart Hotel) | 03 9525 4139

D4

Melbourne Short Stay Apartments, City Tempo 1800 008 910

D1

47

Easystay Studio Apartments | 03 8598 0255

E4

18

Melbourne Short Stay Apartments on Lonsdale 1800 008 910

48

Hyatt Place Melbourne | 03 9190 1234

C1

C2

49

Miami Hotel Melbourne | 03 9321 2444

C1

19

Melbourne Short Stay Apartments, MP Deluxe 1800 008 910

50

PARKROYAL Melbourne Airport | 03 8347 2000

C1

C4

51

Punthill Essendon | 1800 331 529

C1

20

Melbourne Short Stay Apartments on Power 1800 008 910

52

Punthill South Yarra Grand | 1800 331 529

E3

D4

53

Punthill Williamstown | 1800 331 529

A4

21

Melbourne Short Stay Apartments, Southbank Collection 1800 008 910

D4

54

Quest Hawthorn | 03 8803 7700

G2

22

Melbourne Short Stay Apartments, SouthbankONE 1800 008 910

55

Royce Hotel | 03 9677 9900

E3

D4

56

The Blackman | 1800 278 468

E3

23

Melbourne Short Stay Apartments on Whiteman 1800 008 910

57

The Chen | 1800 278 468

G1

C4

58

The Cullen | 1800 278 468

E3

24

Novotel Melbourne South Wharf | 1300 656 565

B3

59

The Larwill Studio | 1800 278 468

D1

25

Pan Pacific Melbourne | 03 9027 2000

B3

60

The Olsen | 1800 278 468

F3

26

Pegasus Apart'Hotel | 03 9284 2400

D1

27

Punthill Flinders Lane | 1800 331 529

E3

28

Punthill Little Bourke | 1800 331 529

F2

29

Punthill Manhattan | 1800 331 529

F3

30

Punthill Northbank | 1800 331 529

C3

Published by Destination Melbourne Melbourne’s Tourism Organisation e marketing@destination.melbourne w destination.melbourne

E4

This guide uses paper from internationally certified sustainably managed forests and is printed at a plant that holds the ISO14001 Environmental Management System certification.

The following organisations have actively endorsed this publication as the Official Visitor Guide to Melbourne While every attempt has been made to ensure accurate information at the time of going to press, the publishers accept no responsibility for supplied information or omissions.

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An experience above all else

OFFICIAL VISITOR GUIDE

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