DESTINATIONS MAGAZINE AUTUMN 2013 by Tara Tyrrell

Destinations for the discerning traveller

Discover Kangaroo Island

Australia and the South Pacific Islands

$8.95 inc GST Autumn 2013

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image Courtesy of Southern Ocean Lodge

Southern Ocean Lodge Australia’s Prestigious Sanctuary

South Pacific

Norfolk Island Welcome to our world

South Australia A brilliant blend to be savoured New South Wales Australia’s Gateway to the Great Southern Land Northern Territory Australia’s Outback Adventure Tourism Step outside your comfort zone LEISURE | ACCOMMODATION | REVIEWS | FINANCE | TRAVEL | FOOD & WINE

One

Beautiful Island

Three

Beautiful Houses

The Cliff House

The Sky House

The Stone House

Exclusive Beach-Front Luxury Accommodation on South Australia's Kangaroo Island Kangaroo Island, just 16 kilometres off the South Australia's southern coast, is one of Australia's most iconic holiday destinations. LifeTime Private Retreats offers three spectacular holiday villas for those seeking to get away from it all. Choose from our three levels of luxury accommodation: You have the unique privacy and seclusion of a seaside villa but retain all the services of a luxury resort. Each villa is at least 150 meters apart, meaning noise is not an issue for you or other guests. Snelling Beach, North Coast Road, Kangaroo Island SA | 08 85592248 res@life-time.com.au | www.life-time.com.au

Contents issue 03

SPECIAL FEATURES

3 Hours from Sydney

ACT – Celebrating 100 Years

South Australia – A Brilliant Blend

Northern Territory – Lose Yourself

120

Adventure Tourism

142

REGULARS 120

Contributors Destination Discovers

Dining

Chef Q&A, with Tess Addie, NT

140

Finance

152

Armchair Traveller

154

142

ARTICLES Byron Bay – A World of its Own Lord Howe Island

Norfolk Island

Barossa Vintage Festival

MANAGING EDITOR Tara Tyrrell PUBLISHER/DIRECTOR Samantha Pearse MANAGING DIRECTOR Charles Werb ART DIRECTOR Samantha Pearse

Editor’s Letter Welcome to the autumn edition of Destinations for the discerning traveller. When you imagine spending the warmer months in Australia and the South Pacific, it generally brings to mind sunshine, beaches, cold icy drinks straight from the esky and for the lucky ones – cooling down in a pool after a long hot day. Personally I love nothing more than grabbing a group of friends, heading down to the local park for a BBQ, some cold beverages and a lie down in the shade. To me, THAT is the epitome of the seasons in Australia - the perfect way to spend my holidays. But for you, the perfect summer holiday might mean taking a holiday with loved ones, heading south to see nature at its best, taking off to an exotic destination, and simply trying something a little different. Australia and the South Pacific have so many great holiday options available – all year round! In this edition we thought we would take you on a journey to some of the warmest places on earth. Join us as we take to the skies across the Red Centre of Australia, flying across the Northern Territory in an experience you will never forget. Come with us to discover South Australia - covering some of the most arid parts of the continent, and without a doubt, some of the most stunning. We spend time sipping wines in the Barossa Valley; take a trip to Kangaroo Island to spend time with the sea lions and penguins; and visit the National Parks, Fleurieu Peninsula and Flinders Ranges, all of which are sure to take your breath away. Take a drive through New South Wales with our 3 Hours From Sydney special through the Hunter Valley, South Coast and Sydney; and visit the ever-popular Byron Bay and the secluded Lord Howe Island. And don’t miss our comprehensive guide to the ACT’s 100 year celebration. Visit Norfolk Island, and embark on a journey through Adventure Travel with self-made adventurer Kristan Fischer. Kristan has experienced a lifestyle many people never imagined – riding a WWII motorbike with sidecar from Siberia to the Arctic Circle, driven 2,700km by mototaxi in Peru, lived on a remote island off the coast of Papua New Guinea, drove a yellow corvette 11,000 miles across America. So who better to introduce the world of Adventure than someone who has “done it all and more” – and is only in his mid-20s! The autumn edition will not only guide you through hundreds of destinations around Australia and the Pacific, it will take hold of your mind so with every story, you will be able to picture yourself there, amongst the locals – wining, dining, relaxing, or trying something a little different. We hope you enjoy the ride.

Tara

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Vincent Clarke ONLINE DEVELOPER Dargan Parminder PRINTER Shenzhen Sixiang Printing Co., Ltd. ADVERTISING Ph: 0418 984 019 SUBSCRIPTIONS admin@destinationsmag.com.au CONTACT DETAILS Chalya Pty Ltd PO Box 533 Broadbeach Waters QLD 4218 Ph: 07 5538 5156 M: 042 064 5153 / 041 898 4019 www.destinationsmag.com.au © DESTINATIONS for the discerning traveller. All rights reserved. No material published in this magazine may be reproduced in whole or in part without prior written authority from DESTINATIONS for the discerning traveller. Every endeavour has been made to ensure information contained in this magazine is correct at the time of printing and no responsibility can be accepted by DESTINATIONS for the discerning traveller for the quality of the goods and services, and prices quoted by advertisers. Neither is responsibility accepted for the accuracy of the authors’ work as views expressed by contributors are personal views.

LETTER FROM THE PUBLISHER Welcome to the third edition of Destinations for the discerning traveller. Creating this publication for our carefully selected demographic – those who are active and self-funded – has proven to be the right decision. Our readers and advertisers have been able to engage with each other which in turn has allowed us to step up the look and feel of this third edition.

Enjoy

LUXURY CITY CAMPING - THAT’S WILD Tandara, when a unique and luxurious experience is paramount. Tandara, it’s a little bit special and is Sydney’s very own ‘Night under the Stars’ accommodation experience.

www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/lane-covenational-park/tandara-tent/accommodation

Meet our Contributors Kristan Fischer

Fisch a young and energetic individual; commonly described as the Energiser Bunny without a cause was once a successful space engineer that left the world of white collar work behind to pursue a life of adventure guiding and travel. For four years Fisch has travelled and lived in some of the most remote and undiscovered places in the world. Everything ranging from remote tropical islands off the coast of Papua New Guinea to the Siberian Arctic in the middle of winter and gang controlled villages deep in the heart of Colombia. With a thirst for the unusual and crazy, his tales of adventure will always leave you shaking your head in bewilderment.

Arabella Hille

Arabella started the first twenty years of her life travelling around Australia, the United States and the United Kingdom. Bor n to mis sionary parents in 1980 Arabella gained a unique perspective on the wo rld and its people. From a young age Ara bella had a love for writing. Div ing into every National Geographic Magazine she could Arabella dre amed that one day she would becom e a travel writer. Later on in life Arabella worked as a wholesale travel ope rator and published a collection of poems titled, Then there was Lig ht. She is now working toward a career in Travel Writing. You can read more about Arabella on her websi te. www.arabellahille.com

Kate Webster

Kate Webster is a travel journalist – travel writer and photographer who travels the globe in search of vivi d imagery and compelling stories that capture the essence of the places she visits. Bor n out of a life-lon g love of travel and fascination with the world around her, is Kate’s inspira tion behind her writing and photograp hy. When she’s not exploring the ramshackle buses, bouncing abo world on ut the African bush in an open air vehicle of diving around the reefs of the Pacific, you can find her based in Sydney or the Gold Coast, Australia eag erly planning her next adventure . Kat worked for the past year with an online travel trade publication and e has been published regularly. has

Andrew Graham

Andrew Graham has been in the financial planning industry for over 10 years. During this time he has helped financial advisers and their clients with regards to superannuation, retirement income planning, estate planning and life insurances. Andrew became a financial adviser in 2006 and is a licensed and authorised representative of AIW Dealer Services Pty Ltd. Andrew Graham of Approved Financial Planning Pty Ltd is an authorised representative of AIW Dealer Services Pty Ltd - AFSL 414256 and wishes everyone a safe and prosperous new year.

Foreword

Tourism 2020 There’s Nothing Like Australia

By Andrew McEvoy, Managing Director, Tourism Australia Welcome to the autumn edition of Destinations. As many readers of this magazine would know there’s nothing like holidaying in Australia in autumn. Like summer, autumn is the season that best accentuates our revered outdoor lifestyle. Whether it’s lazing on the beach, plunging in to the ocean, enjoying a leisurely barbeque with friends, or fine dining alfresco style on our world class food and wine - it’s the perfect time for taking time out and experiencing world’s best right here on our doorstop. However, it is easy to sometimes forget just what Australia has to offer. That’s why our latest campaign - There’s nothing like Australia - not only aims to inspire international visitors about the depth of Australia’s tourism experiences but also serves to remind Australians about what is unique and special about their country. Fortunately this message is getting through and Australians have been increasingly taking more domestic trips in recent years, similar to levels seen early last decade. In fact in the past year alone Australians took around 75 million overnight trips, equating to more than 280 million nights travelling domestically. So this latest phase of our campaign, which was launched globally in Shanghai in June, is about putting Australia’s best foot forward to ensure the love affair with Australian holidays continue. The broadcast, print and digital elements of the campaign all lead with our world’s best experiences – helping to demonstrate why There’s nothing like Australia. From the pristine coastlines of Freycinet in Tasmania and the Great Ocean Road in Victoria, to Queensland’s idyllic islands of Lizard and Hayman in the Great Barrier Reef, the Bungle Bungles in The Kimberley, South Australia’s Kangaroo Island, Sydney’s magnificent harbour, and the spiritual heart of Australia - Uluru. The new campaign creative - particularly the locations and how they have been shot - clearly and deliberately demonstrate Australia’s distinctive and high quality tourism products and experiences that are amongst the world’s finest. No doubt the pages of this latest edition of Destination will inspire many readers to get out and explore new and exciting destinations. In choosing where you might next holiday I encourage you to rethink what an Australian holiday might entail – whether it be a short stay at one of Australia’s luxury lodges, exploring the endless natural wonders or immersing yourself in Australia’s vibrant cities. A good starting point is our consumer website – www. australia.com – or better still our new There’s Nothing Like Australia app, which brings to life the stories, destinations and experiences featured in our latest broadcast ad. I urge you to start exploring and rediscover for yourself why there truly is nothing like Australia.

Byron Bay

A World Of Its Own by Tara Downey

he mere mention of Byron Bay conjures up such a variety of images in your mind, there is no denying this little seaside town is in a world of its own. From its surf culture to its alternative philosophies, Byron Bay on the north coast of New South Wales is the epitome of “laid back” and is known worldwide for its surfing beaches, whale watching, natural beauty. Located 772 kilometres north of Sydney and 165 kilometres south of Brisbane, this relaxed seaside town has a history that dates back to 1770, and a future that is just as appealing. No matter your age, your interests or your budget, you will easily find something to do here. Byron Bay was first discovered in 1770 when Captain James Cook found a safe anchorage. He named the spot Cape Byron - after the world circumnavigator John Byron – and it has since been confirmed as the Easternmost point of mainland Australia. The local aboriginal name for the area is Cavvanbah – “meeting place” – and the Cape is special to the Bundjalung of Byron Bay (Arakwal) Aboriginal people. When in Byron Bay, a visit to the Cape Byron Headland Reserve, a State Conservation Area, is a must. Surrounding the Cape itself, standing atop the cliffs here and walking along the track, you can see an immense variety of flora and fauna and stunning views of the area’s beaches and nearby hinterland, with something to see in every direction. The most popular feature here is the Cape Byron Lighthouse, brightly painted blue and white so it shines with its own character. The lighthouse and the light keeper’s cottage were built in 1901 and offer an insight into the life of a lighthouse keeper in the early 1900s. Byron’s industrial history includes logging, dairy, abattoirs, fishing and whaling. It wasn’t until the 1960s that the area became a tourist destination, following the arrival of longboard surfers to the area. These days there are three main beaches here which attract a host of tourists and locals to the surf, the sand and the sunshine. Byron Main beach is most popular with families and

swimmers due to its smaller waves, while Watego’s Beach has a cult longboarder crowd and Tallows Beach is a surfers dream with its larger swells. It was back in the 1970s that natural breaks like Wategos and The Pass (at Byron Main) became the “place to be” and with the help of the Aquarius Festival in the nearby town of Nimbin in 1973, crowds of tourists and settlers moved into the area and the culture that is Byron Bay was born. Within town there is plenty of shopping, restaurants and cafes, galleries and bars to choose from, with festivals held throughout the year which enhance the alternative culture of the region’s people. With everything from gourmet dining to a relaxing dinner by the beach, through to adventure sports like skydiving, hang-gliding and bike riding; the Byron Bay region also has a variety of spas offering all kinds of alternative therapy massages and meditation, including yoga, pilates, reflexology, aromatherapy, reiki and day spa treatments. But it isn’t just the town itself that provides an amazing experience, with the district also teeming with beauty and adventure. Just minutes from town and you will be able to immerse yourself in a world of rainforests, waterfalls, mountains and some of the most amazing views. The sub-tropical hinterland outside Byron Bay is teeming with some country experiences, from tropical fruit and dairy farms, to markets and macadamia plantations. You might like to take a day, or even a few, to discover this stunning scenery with its abundant wildlife, take yourself on some bushwalks and explore a hidden, barely touched, world. Towns and villages like Brunswick Heads, Bangalow and Mullumbimby create comfort outside the tourist centre; all of which are within close travelling distance. Brunswick Heads is a great spot for surfing and fishing and is located on the mouth of the Brunswick River, just 15 minutes from Byron Bay itself. Bangalow is named after the palms that line the streets, which are filled with art stores, galleries, antiques, homewares, gifts, boutiques and cafes specialising in local produce. Meanwhile Mullumbimby, at the foot of the hinterland, provides another nearby stop-in destination – proclaiming to be the “Biggest Little Town in Australia!” The mix of culture in the Byron Bay region is undoubtedly one of a kind, with something for everyone and a visit here is one that should not be missed. The scenery, the wildlife and the friendly locals will leave an impression on you that is second to none and you will be astounded by the broad range of memories, and souvenirs, you take away with you.

SHAMBHALA @ BYRON In the exclusive enclave of Belongil Beach lies Byron Bay’s best-kept secret for those seeking ambience, uniqueness and indulgence. A spectacular oasis that affords total privacy yet is only a few kilometres from the centre of Byron, the retreat Shambhala, which in Buddhism means “pure land” or “mythical hidden kingdom”. The wow factor impacts immediately, as eyes, hearts, and minds focus on the massive, beautifully shaped Brazilian amethyst. Along the elevated boardwalk, the cottages float within the canopy of trees. Perfect for honeymoon couples, retreats, celebrations or wedding, Shambhala transcends all expectations. The popular and economical Shiva Studio is perfect for aspiring or practiced yogis. The Shiva Studio features a queen size bed with ensuite bathroom. Enjoy the unique loft-style reading area complete with beanbag chairs. Samadhi Retreat is a one bedroom, two-storey cottage, and is ideal for aromantic getaway. Intimate, yet spacious for a couple, Samadhi’s interior is immaculately furnished. Shanti Retreat is perfect for two friends, or two couples, the Shanti Retreat transcends peace of mind. With a generous two-storey expanse, three or four guests will enjoy both intimacy and privacy. Many come to Byron Bay to nurture their soul and set their spirit free. The name Sarita refers to “fluent, flowing” or

river. Sarita is also the name of a preserved female Inca mummy. Why not enjoy an interlude in Sarita and feel like royalty? Befittingly named as the largest cottage it sleeps up to five guests and is perfect for a family getaway, or a friends retreat. Elevated into the treetops the large living space, is perfect to contemplate, write, sketch, or snuggle up with a good book. Many visitors to Byron Bay return to discover this hidden kingdom. Luxurious fully appointed self-contained accommodation with exceptional facilities, such as the beautifully enclosed Yoga Pavilion, giant Steam Room and hot rock Sauna are waiting for you at Shambhala Retreat.

SHAMBHALA IS KNOWN AS BY RONS RETREAT FOR THE STARS

However you don’t have to be famous

elevate your senses

to come escape and set your spirit free

nourish your soul

experience shambhala

Samadhi Cottage - Shanti Cottage - Sarita Cottage

1800 Shambhala (742624) | www.shambhala.org.au

JADES ON LAWSON If you’re heading to Byron Bay, why not make your holiday extra special and stay in a luxury apartment at Jades on Lawson. Located in the heart of Byron, within easy walking distance of beaches, shops, fine dining and all that Byron has to offer, Jades on Lawson has plenty of privacy for a relaxing getaway with your loved ones. Owner and operator Donna Pike has “a passion to provide a unique and personalised experience for all visitors” and regardless of if you are after a short stay or a long holiday, you will feel right at home. This spacious full self-contained, two bedroom two bathroom apartment is designed for both business and leisure travel and can sleep up to 6 guests. It comes with superior services and a broad range of amenities to ensure your stay is as comfortable as possible. Experience a great night’s rest with bedrooms including a king size bed and singles. The apartment features two bathtubs and private spas, an outdoor Jacuzzi, kitchenette and coffee/tea making facilities. A range of on-site recreational facilities will satisfy all tastes, including gas BBQ, TVs (with Austar available), DVDs, stereo and board games. If you are bringing your young children with you on this break, a complimentary cot and high chair is also available. The apartment also has ducted reverse cycle air conditioning to ensure you are comfortable year round.

Byron Bay has so many activities you will never be bored. Visit the famous lighthouse where the views will leave you breathless and take a walk out to Cape Byron – a headland adjacent to the town and the most Eastern point of mainland Australia. Take a simple walk through the village, venture out on a diving trip, take yourself surfing or whale watching, visit one of the gorgeous subtropical rainforests in the region or spend your days simply relaxing in the comfort of the apartment. Whatever your choice, if you’re after a relaxed and hassle-free stay when you visit Byron Bay, Jades on Lawson is the ideal location.

THIS IS THE ULTIMATE GETAWAY

Perfect spot…right in the heart of Byron Bay

Spacious luxury Byron Bay Apartment nestled in the heart of the cosmopolitan shopping village. Just a short stroll to the beautiful sands of Main Beach.

‘“I have a passion to provide a unique and personalised experience for all visitors.”- Donna Pike (owner, operator) 0433 644 872 | www.jadesonlawson.com.au

BUDDHA’S BUNGALOW Welcome to Buddha’s Bungalow where you can wind down from a stressful week at work, reduce the tension and relax in a two-bedroom house situated in an enchanted forest. Tucked away in a wilderness sanctuary on two acres of untouched Byron Bay rainforest and near a sacred lake and the sea you will feel like nothing else matters. This beautiful hideaway features accommodation for four to six people. You will find a television in the bungalow but you may not want to spoil the ambience, so sit back and listen to some relaxation music while you enjoy the views. A ten-minute walk will take you to the sacred lake and you will pass forest meditation zones where you will be inspired to take some time to enjoy the serenity of the outdoors. Buddha’s Bungalow rates are affordable and to enhance your stay in Buddha’s Bungalow, add a massage to your itinerary. Reflexology Massage is based on the principle that particular areas in the feet, hands and ears relate to the internal organs and other structures of the body and is an alternative and safe therapeutic method of relieving pain stimulating predefined pressure points. Reflexology massage is also renowned for its ability to reduce stress, harmonize the body, increase immunity.

A Reiki treatment will relax you even more. Believed to have been developed in Japan by a Tendai Buddhist monk at the beginning of the 20 century it is a noninvasive, gentle yet powerful energy that enhances your natural healing ability, well-being and increases your energy flow. If you want to do some touring around Cape Byron, you will find plenty to do. With its numerous beaches, unspoilt hinterland, and relaxed lifestyle, Byron Bay is a popular tourist destination.

BE ENCHANTED BYRON BAY’S MOST MAGICAL HOLIDAY ACCOMODATION

• Tucked away in 2 acres of magical rainforest • 2 beautiful bedrooms • Only 2 minutes walk from the beach • 4 minutes to the heart of the Bay • Ideal for 4-6 people

Byron Bay Holiday Accommodation P. 0407 487290 E. inquiry@byronbay-accommodation.com.au W. www.buddhas.com.au

VILLAS OF BYRON If you’re looking for an experience like no other, the Villas of Byron offers luxury accommodation that will take your breath away. Located in the heart of Byron Bay, the Villas of Byron is a five villa complex offering privacy and seclusion to ensure your next break is as peaceful as possible. The immaculately designed villas blend modern comfort and convenience with an ambience that has been inspired by both Balinese and Javanese elements. Be welcomed by the standing Buddha and step through the 300 year old handcrafted Javanese doors into a private world of nine foot walls, bamboo ceilings, tropical gardens and soothing water features. Villas of Byron offers five exclusive villas catering to singles, couples, families and groups. Choose from one and two bedroom Villas, or one and two bedroom Grand Villas nestled in their own private sanctuary, hidden from the outside world. In each room you will relish in the king size canopy bed nets, handcrafted day beds, traditional Balinese offerings and batik bathrobes; and enjoy every moment with the ultra-modern entertainment system, seductive mood lighting and gourmet kitchen.

Warm up in winter with the heated marble floors, or turn on the air conditioning if you want to cool down on a hot summer’s day. Take time out in your own private heated pool and spa, refresh yourself in the outdoor rain shower, release some tension with a massage, take a private yoga lesson or visit the nearby day spa. And to top it off, all of this is just a short distance from Byron Bay’s town centre and stunning beaches. You will be assured absolute privacy and freedom, so if you’re looking for the ultimate escape, the Villas of Byron will take you to another realm, a world of peace, tranquillity and relaxation. Just be prepared... you may never want to leave.

The Villas of Byron a sanctuary for the soul

Escape to a world of pure luxury where 1 & 2 bedroom villas feature a private heated pool and spa, outdoor rain showers and heated marble floors, Our “Bliss Butler” concierge service will arrange in villa massages, romantic turndowns, rose petal baths, private yoga, in villa candle lit dinners or gourmet 2 course breakfast prepared by your very own chef.

The Villas of Byron Bay offers a luxury accommodation option like no other 19-23 Gordon St, Byron Bay NSW 2481 02 6685 6746 | escape@thevillasofbyron.com.au www.thevillasofbyron.com.au

Destinations Discovers I was looking for a simple week away. Somewhere I could go to relax, enjoy the serenity and to be alone with my thoughts. It was a time when I was so busy with work that I knew “time off” wasn’t feasible, so I also needed somewhere I could work in comfort and peace and quiet. Not long into my search I came across what looked to be the perfect place to get all of that – and so much more. Hillview House in the Byron Bay Hinterland announced themselves as a 5 Star “home-away-from-home”, with seclusion and privacy, yet located just a short drive to beaches, nightlife, cafes and restaurants. It sounded perfect. What more could you want on a week of intermingled work-relaxation? High on a hill in Ewingsdale, the property is completely private and as I approached, I was enchanted by the unexpected - left guessing right until I reached the bottom of the driveway. Here I was greeted by a paradise at the end of a culde-sac. Like entering a magical heaven! A tropical oasis with so much to explore. Walking through the door, I was overcome with an amazing sense of tranquillity. It truly does feel like a “home-awayfrom-home” – in fact, I found out the owners had actually lived here themselves before deciding to share the space with a world of visitors. Even the furnishings are collectables and all have a story to tell. Owner, Heather Ferguson is the perfect host and offers a range of extra services tailor-made to make your experience unforgettable. Heather offers services like babysitters, picnic baskets and dinners – to ensure your stay is as comfortable as you need. The views are also spectacular - from the deck or top level main bedroom where you can see the famous Byron Bay lighthouse, to views of the rolling hinterland stretching for miles; I’m surprised I got any work done at all! It’s not just for singles or couples either – families and pets are all welcome and there is plenty of choice for sleeping space as well as activities. A pool and games room is perfect for entertaining the kids and an outdoor shower offers a unique sense of truly being in the country or an exotic location, despite being so close to town. Hillview House is unique and my stay here was so comfortable and special. It offers visitors a chance to experience the “real Byron” ... My only goal - next time I will go for a holiday, no computers allowed! To find out more about Byron’s best kept secret call Heather Ferguson on 0403 200 794 to arrange your next unforgettable holiday with a difference or visit www.hillviewbyron.com.au.

Samantha Pearse Publisher/Director

Hillview House Byron Bay -

Escape to the real Byron Bay The Design

– whether it is the split level home and its separate pavilion, the winding entry driveway or the lush and tropical gardens, Hillview House gives its guests seclusion and privacy by design. The property is large enough for its 8 guests to gather together or to take some time out to relax and unwind in one of its many indoor and outdoor areas.

The Real Byron

– there is a reason why places become popular and with its numerous beaches, unspoilt hinterland, and relaxed lifestyle Byron is a popular place! Hillview House gives its guests a glimpse into the ‘real Byron’ and why this part of the world is so loved. From rolling hills to the ocean, the constant hum of wildlife and a feeling of peace and tranquillity that you don’t get from being right in town (which is only 5 minutes away!).

The View

– Set on one tropical acre, Hillview is perched high on a hill in Ewingsdale and provides a postcard view of the iconic Byron lighthouse from its pool and deck. The King Suite on the upper level overlooks the rolling hills to the sea and turns the postcard into a spectacular rural panorama with the lighthouse at its centre. So sit back, take a deep breath of the Byron country air and enjoy the view.

A Home Away From Home

– the owners lived in the house for 2 years before deciding to share the space. Most of the furniture was specially chosen to give the house a homely and relaxed feel while not taking away from its luxury. And if you don’t like to leave your pet at home, take it with you! Hillview House is a pet friendly home and your hosts can even provide dog bedding and bowls on request. 17

3 Hours From Sydney More than just a destination

by KAte Webster

But New South Wales is much more than Sydney, and if you travel just three hours outside this humming harbour city you will find a region just as diverse. It gives that sense of getting away for a short break, while still staying close. The New South Wales coastline stretches 2000 kilometres from the Queensland border to Victoria in the South and boasts stunning scenery, gorgeous beaches, small fishing villages and resort towns.Part of this is the Central Coast, just a short drive from Sydney, and offers some of the most accessible coastline in Australia, with national parks, nature reserves and headland lookouts. Attracting more visitors than any other wine region in Australia, the Hunter Valley is a gem in regional New South Wales and the perfect gourmet getaway destination to indulge in spa treatments, dine in acclaimed restaurants set amongst the vineyards or tee off at one of the golf resorts with green rolling landscapes. North-West of Sydney lies the scenic Blue Mountains with their picturesque landscapes fit for a painting and abundant in walking trails of natural beauty. Venture south from the Blue Mountains and the range continues to the Southern Highlands and Snowy Mountains that inspired the legendary poems and stories of the mountain horsemen who were famously immortalised in Banjo Paterson’s ‘The Man from Snowy River’. The Sydney – 3 hours region is more than just a destination. It is getting back to nature and exploring the area’s many walking trails, camping grounds and national parks. It is relaxing with a local glass of wine and sampling local culinary delights while simply enjoying the stunning scenery. It is learning the country’s history, diving into cultural attractions to enrich the soul. It is time on the beach, exploring the coastline’s wonders. It is a selection of sights, activities and attractions to keep even the most discerning traveller entertained.

Image courtesy of Tourism New South Wales

ydney is a city that buzzes – with picture perfect beaches, icons such as the Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge, not to mention its extraordinary nightlife, hidden bars, fantastic viewpoints and shopping experiences to suit all tastes and budgets!

rowned the nation’s favourite city by Australians and ranking third in the world for the 2012 City Reputation Index, Sydney is a city that personifies diversity. This is a city of a multitude of experiences for shopping, culture and ethnic blend. It is a city buzzing in cosmopolitan delights, picture-perfect beaches and harbour attractions that host the world recognised Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Opera House. Sydney is increasingly seeing hatted restaurants push culinary expectations; luxury hotels gain worldwide acclaim and chic hidden bars popping-up all over the place. The iconic Sydney Opera House is a top attraction for visitors and just a short walk from the other side of Circular Quay at Bennelong Point. With over 3000 performances a year, from Opera to Jazz, plays to dance and orchestras to movies - to name a few, the Sydney Opera House is enjoyed just as much on the inside than from its unique architecture on the outside. Views from the Sydney Opera House extend across the harbour to the northern beaches and look out towards the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Built in 1932 and affectionately known as ‘the coat hanger’, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is most recognised as an Australian icon around the world. Every year on New Year’s Eve, the Sydney Harbour Bridge lights up the night sky in spectacular displays of fireworks to bring in the New Year. Visitors have the opportunity to climb the bridge and gaze over the beauty of the harbour city. Sydney Harbour itself radiates beauty from fantastic views of the city and surrounds. To see it in all its glory, you can take a cruise around the harbour to view the grand vistas of Sydney, its many attractions and numerous islands. This allows perfect vantage points to see the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. Cruises operate throughout the day or for a special evening, take to the water for dinner. A short ferry ride from Circular Quay is the picturesque Darling Harbour, home to a number of attractions to keep travellers from all walks of life entertained. This area of Sydney is a hub of waterside restaurants, bars and clubs that in the warm summer nights are a popular spot to enjoy a cool evening by the water.

The European history of early colonial explorers is never more evident in Sydney than in the historic Rocks area. Oozing character and heritage, the Rocks area sits on the shoreline of Sydney Harbour and offers everything from boutique shops to fine art galleries. Many of Sydney’s well known restaurants are here and a night of dining can normally include spectacular street entertainment. Even a walk around the historical buildings and museums with displays and artefacts from a much earlier Sydney will transport you back in time to when the city was first colonised. Just a short trip east from the city centre is one of Australia’s most famous beaches, Bondi Beach. Believed to be an Aboriginal word meaning ‘the sound of breaking waves’, Bondi Beach is around one kilometre long and the widest beach in the Sydney region. The warm clear water, golden sands and beach lifestyle attracts visitors from near and wide to this seaside playground. The Bondi Baths at the southern end of the beach are over 100 years old, while at the northern end of the beach there is the children’s wading pool. Meanwhile, a scenic ferry ride from Circular Quay gets you to Manly Beach, another of Sydney’s famous beaches. The esplanade is littered with local shops, cafes and seaside delights and it is the perfect place to enjoy an ice-cream on the beach. You can escape for just a few hours to these northern shores, or spend the night at one of the many hotels along the esplanade and make a weekend of it. With all these places to visit and things to do in Sydney, you would find it hard to believe the city turns it on even more, with various events year round. Not only does Sydney attract people from all over to attend the many sporting events and cultural shows, but the city is a favourite host to international stars, music festivals and concerts. From iconic landmarks and sensational culinary experiences to the spectacular display of New Year’s Eve on Sydney Harbour and the Sydney Festival that sees an explosion of exceptional theatre, dance, music, visual arts, film and more take over Sydney’s venues and streets, Sydney is a city that has it all.

Image courtesy of Harbour Rocks Hotel Sydney

Sydney

New South Wales Hunter With its historical towns and national parks, the Hunter Region, or Hunter Valley, is the 6th most visited place in Australia with more than 2.5 million visitors each year. And it’s not hard to see why. The region extends from around 120 kilometres to 310 kilometres north of Sydney, with Newcastle being its largest city and other centres including the townships of Kurri Kurri, Muswellbrook, Scone and Singleton. The region is one of the largest river valleys on the New South Wales coast and it is well known for its wine growing – it was one of the first wine regions planted in Australia in the early 1800s. The Hunter Valley today boasts more than 120 wineries which not only offer visitors an array of great tastings, but also plenty of tasty food, often created with locally grown produce. The Valley is also home to some of the country’s best regional dining and produce and even offers visitors the opportunity to create their own sensations through local cooking schools. The region is so proud of their food and wine, they don’t just hold a week-long festival they hold one for a month! Held in June, the Hunter Valley Wine and Food Month tempts visitors to taste local produce and wines, attend a range of cooking classes or demonstrations and meet the friendly producers. Throughout the district there are also a variety of other festivals, including the Newcastle Food & Wine Festival, Hunter Valley Uncorked as well as the long-running Jazz in the Vines & Lovedale Long Lunch.

Newcastle Located on the southern end of the Hunter River mouth in the Hunter Valley region, Newcastle is the largest coal exporting harbour in the world and the Port of Newcastle is the centre for trade to the Hunter Valley region and northern New South Wales. As part of the Hunter region, food and wine are an ever important part of Newcastle living, and in Newcastle itself, a food scene has emerged over the past few years to incorporate four main dining precincts in the inner city. These precincts offer a wide variety of tastes. In Cooks Hill, Darby Street offers an artistic feel, with an abundance of cafes alongside galleries and boutiques. Street-side cafes are mixed with fine dining experiences in this fashionable precinct. Honeysuckle and the Harbour bring to life a variety of waterfront cafes and restaurants through the creation of foreshore promenades and open squares, with views that are a fantastic backdrop at any time of day or night. Beaumont Street, Hamilton, is a great place to pick up some Mediterranean foods with its many cafes and pubs. Home to the city’s first Italian and Greek arrivals, this is a favourite place to dine for both locals and visitors alike. And if you’re after first class dining, head to The Junction – originally a junction point for coal trains, it is now a prestigious shopping village by the sea, with plenty of high quality food and designer labels, jewellery and home wares to match.

Or ange

Dining Precincts

Nestled away in the New South Wales Central Tablelands is Orange, home to around 40,000 people and the birthplace of some well known Australian icons. The town where Banjo Paterson, Kenneth Slessor and Walter Stone were born, Orange remains a little known town of Australia, touched predominantly by the agriculture and mining industries. Yet there is so much in the area to entice visitors – it boasts Mount Canobolas which stands at 1,395 metres, it was the home of the first V8 Supercar Championship Series in 1960 at Gnoo Blas circuit, it is the home of the Cadia gold mine, and with numerous fruit farms and vineyards – visitors are never short of a great variety of dining experiences. The wine region offers a large variety of tastebud tempters, with almost 30 wineries operating in the area. A combination of geology, soils, climate and temperature make this a popular region for producing grapes and wines of many different flavours and colours. The wine region is also home to a number of cafes, offering a range of mouth watering meals to suit any palette. The town itself has plenty of offerings, from cafes and restaurants, to pub meals and take-aways, but nothing is more popular in Orange than the annual Orange FOOD (Food Of Orange District) Week. Held in April, FOOD Week supports local produce and fine foods over a 10 day period, showcasing producers and their products as well as chefs and their restaurants. The celebration is a must-visit for any lover of fine foods.

Mudgee Just over 282 kilometres north-west of Sydney lies the small historic town of Mudgee in the Cudgegong Valley. A major goldmining area in the 19th Century, Mudgee has a prosperous pastoral history centred around its’ extremely rich farmland. The Cudgegong River feeds the fertile soil and enhances the region, which produces great local produce and has led to the district being well known for its fine wine. Mudgee’s wine heritage dates back to the 1850s, and with 40 wineries dotting the region, tourists flock to taste some of the exquisite flavours that hail from the locally produced wines. Enjoy some intimate dining in one of the many wineries or cafes, feasting on everything from Australian cuisine to Mediterranean. Choose to dine indoors in comfort, or outside enjoying the scenery; or follow the local cheese and wine trail to explore some of the lesser known areas. Local produce is aplenty, with the fertile lands also being the great setting for a variety of other local product, including olives, fruit, tomatoes, corn, honey, cattle, sheep, wheat, lucerne and dairy. Local produce is available at many of the cafes and restaurants in the town itself, as well as farm gate sales and gourmet food outlets. Within Mudgee itself there are a vast range of dining choices, with everything from general take-away to brasseries, bars and fine dining. Indian, Chinese, Australian, Italian – there is something for every taste and a walk through the main precinct will leave you with only one question – what do I feel like?

GLENORIE BAKERY As Winner of Australia’s Best Bakery/Cake Shop 2012’, Glenorie Bakery has that something extra special to satisfy every gourmet’s craving. Voted amongst the Best Meat Pies in Sydney this family bakery has been a pioneer in the industry and continues today with family traditions and creative bakery skills at the forefront of the business.

Rob extends an invitation to Destinations readers to drop by and ‘judge for yourself’, from the award winning pies to the acclaimed sausage and vegetarian spinach rolls, or even take home a Bake It Yourself family pie from the freezer. There is also a variety of Gluten free options available.

Founded by Rob Pirina’s father in 1994 the bakery has grown to become an icon in the region. From an early age Rob recognised his flair for the industry and in 2005 took over the reins from his father. “The key to our success has been our unwavering commitment to our customers and our community”, says Rob.

For a sweet indulgence select from a choice of scrumptious patisserie, Danish’s and almond croissants or build your own gourmet sandwich or roll from the delicatessen. Glenorie Bakery offers a wide selection of beverages, including excellent Italian coffee.

With a succession of prestigious awards including Best Bakery in the Hawkesbury and judged by the Daily Telegraph’s Taste to be amongst the Top Five Pies in Sydney, Rob has also gone on to win the Greater Sydney Tourism Award in 2011 as well as the WSABE Young Entrepreneur of the Year and Retailer of the Year award for Western Sydney. The bakery has been voted Business of the Year, Sydney’s Premier Sausage Roll and Meat Pie. Amongst many other honours in 2012 Glenorie Bakery also won the inaugural Pie of Origin challenge. In 2008 Rob created Australia’s longest sausage roll and this year plans to make the world’s longest sausage roll.

For a special celebration or gathering with friends and family, Glenorie Bakery can create delicious platters, as well as superb celebration cakes for all occasions. Glenorie Bakery’s friendly and cheerful staff will ensure you feel right at home as you enjoy the very best Australia has to offer.

930 Old Northern Rd, Glenorie NSW 2157 Ph: 02 9652 2624 robpirina@gmail.com www.glenoriebakery.com.au

Australia's No1. Bakery/Cake store Winner of Australia’s Best Bakery/Cake Shop 2012. Glenorie Bakery has that something extra special to satisfy every gourmet’s craving. Voted amongst the Best Meat Pies in Sydney this family bakery has been a pioneer in the industry as and continues on today with family traditions and creative bakery skills at the forefront of the business. Founded in 1994 the bakery has grown to become an icon in the region.

Shop 4, 930 Old Northern Rd, Glenorie, NSW 2157 02 9652 2624 | admin@glenoriebakery.com.au www.glenoriebakery.com.au

Sydney’s Best Bakery

THE YORK SYDNEY On your next visit to Sydney, why not enjoy the convenience of self-contained accommodation in a superb location, combined with the luxury of a complete service? The York by Swiss-Belhotel is the perfect choice for serviced apartments in Sydney. The York by Swiss-Belhotel is located right in the heart of Sydney, on the door step of Sydney’s icons, nightlife and entertainment precinct, international shopping district and corporate and financial hub. It is just a short walk to some of the city’s best places to relax or have fun, including major tourist attractions such as the Opera House, The Harbour Bridge, Circular Quay, The Rocks, and the Botanic Gardens. With 120 suites ranging from studio apartments, to twobedroom executive apartments, The York by SwissBelhotel will be a home away from home during your next business or leisure trip. Apartments come complete with a fully equipped kitchen, separate bath and shower, open plan lounge and dining area and spacious open air balconies, as well as an in room safe, air conditioning, private laundry facilities, telephones and voicemail. And although the apartments are self-contained, you don’t need to worry about mess with suites serviced daily.

If you want to unwind, The York by Swiss-Belhotel offers a range of facilities and services which will help you to relax. You can enjoy the outdoor heated swimming pool – with the perfect temperature no matter what the season; work out at the fully equipped fitness centre, or simply take time out to rest in the Jacuzzi and sauna. The building also offers secure parking, as well as 24 hour security and reception, ensuring your needs will be met at any time, day or night. Other services offered include assistance with restaurant bookings, car hire, babysitting services and day trips; while room service and dining options are available on site. Or you might like to enjoy the latest in-room entertainment with IP TV and Video on Demand with high quality recently released movies, digital television and selected Foxtel channels. The York by Swiss-Belhotel has everything you need – and more – for your next stay in Sydney. 5 York Street, Sydney, NSW 2000 Ph: 02 9210 5000 restysb@swiss-belhotel.com www.theyorkapartments.com.au

3 Hours From Sydney Amaroo Cottage – Hawkesbury River Welcome to Hawksbury River’s ultimate getaway, Amaroo Cottage. Nothing compares to the perfect escape or romantic haven. With views across the stunning Hawkesbury River, and surrounded by Hawkesbury bushland, lush green gardens that extend to your own private beach and studio, Amaroo Cottage is the ideal place to relax and rejuvenate the mind and body. Amaroo Cottage retains the natural ambience of the original cottage with the French doors from the main cottage lounge and master bedroom opening onto a large veranda that traps the morning light. The newly renovated kitchen complements the potbelly stove recessed in the original sand stone kitchen wall; and with a garden landscaped by Michael Bligh, there are many places to sit and enjoy the view. For those who want to explore the area, enjoy a leisurely walk through the natural bushland in search of unique waterfalls, or grab the fishing rod and crab nets from the boatshed and perch yourself on the long boat wharf for a few hours. Alternately, if that’s not what you’re looking for, you might prefer to hire a ‘tinny’ and cruise the beautiful Hawkesbury River at your own pace. Getting to Amaroo Cottage is by water access, hop aboard the water taxi or weekend runabout, or if you decide to go during the week hitch a ride on the mail boat or take your own boat and weigh anchor at your private wharf. To enjoy unique holiday experience in a piece of Australia’s history less than one hour from Sydney, let the serenity and privacy of Amaroo Cottage take you away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Lot 16/17, Bar Point, Brooklyn NSW 2083 amaroocottage@tpg.com.au

Ph: 02 9922 2934 www.amaroocottage.com.au

Gr ace Hotel The luxurious Grace Hotel in Sydney is recognised as one of the city’s most elegant Neo-Gothic buildings. Built by Grace Bros. in the 1920s as a showpiece for their successful business, the heritage listed hotel has been restored to its former glory and offers guests a warm setting in the heart of Sydney. Located in close proximity to many of Sydney’s treasures, including Darling Harbour, Circular Quay (with the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House), The Rocks, Queen Victoria Building and Pitt Street, the Grace Hotel offers modern amenities in an old world setting and is an ideal place for a private getaway, business trip or family break. Offering guests 4 ½ star accommodation, the hotel offers a range of tastefully decorated rooms, ensuring you will have no trouble finding the right one for you. The 382 superior, deluxe and premium rooms are comfortable and spacious. If you want to take time out, you can access the Rooftop Health and Fitness Centre with heated indoor lap pool, fully equipped gym, sauna and steam room. Within the hotel you will also find Cendana Spa, Hair Solutions, a variety of food outlets and souvenir shops. With 24 hour reception, in room or restaurant dining, including a sumptuous Seafood Buffet, as well as a variety of amenities, you may never want to leave the comfort of the hotel. The Grace Hotel also caters for meetings, conferences and events of various sizes. Next time you’re in Sydney, the Grace Hotel is the ideal place to rest after a long day of sightseeing or meetings. 77 York Street, Sydney NSW 2000 reservations@gracehotel.com.au

Ph: 02 9272 6888 www.gracehotel.com.au

Accommodation

Tizzana

If you’re looking for the ultimate get-away within easy reach of Sydney, Tizzana in Ebenezer is the ideal setting. Nestled in a valley on the Hawkesbury River and close to the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Listed Area and Wollemi Wilderness, Tizzana is a unique agribusiness that not only offers 5-Star bed and breakfast accommodation, but also the beauty of its own vineyard and olive grove, along with a winery offering locally produced wine and food. Tizzana Bed & Breakfast overlooks a lagoon of waterlilies, and with the completion of award winning renovations in 2000 the purpose built bed and breakfast allows the traveller to get the most comfort out of their stay. The Tizzana Winery has been listed by the National Trust as one of the Windsor districts outstanding buildings, with its heritage dating back to around 1887. There are two King rooms to choose from in the Bed & Breakfast - the Provincial Room or the Rose Room (which includes veranda and French doors). The large guest lounge will remind you of the property’s heritage with its vaulted ceiling, exposed beams and fireplace; while the breakfast room overlooks the vineyards and lily pond. While you are staying at Tizzana, you might like to take a moment to appreciate the region. Visit historic Windsor and Richmond, St Albans Village, take a walk around the Mt Tomah Botanic Gardens or admire the Ebenezer Church (1809). Play a round of golf, tennis, or take a tour of some neighbouring wineries; or if you prefer to simply relax, grab your picnic basked and head to the vineyard, do some bird watching or sit back with a glass of wine and appreciate nature at its finest. 518 Tizzana Road, Ebenezer NSW 2756 enquiries@tizzana.com.au

Ph: 02 4579 1150 www.accommodation.tizzana.com.au

Cornwallis House Hidden among the orange groves, on the banks of the Hawkesbury River lies Cornwallis House, the ideal luxury retreat for those looking to escape the city and stay somewhere different. Just three minutes drive from Windsor (an hour or so from Sydney), Cornwallis House is a luxury riverfront holiday rental property offering small group accommodation where guests can relax, reconnect and get together with their family and friends in a home away from home atmosphere. You will be greeted warmly by owners Angelo and Alannah Santangelo as you arrive at this tranquil rural countryside setting. The views are spectacular, further enhanced by the novelty of being surrounded by an established working citrus orchard, in a location that’s conveniently close to the city. Cornwallis House has four big bedrooms, all with their own bathrooms and a wonderfully equipped modern kitchen. Angelo and Alannah are happy to arrange and tailor weekends to suit individual tastes, or you might find you just don’t want to leave the property and instead spend your time relaxing on the verandah resting in the hammock, soaking in the spa, gazing at the lovely river views and sharing meals with friends and family. Cornwallis House provides space and privacy in a charming rural setting and is a great place to experience all that the Hawkesbury region has to offer. It’s the perfect place for your next getaway with family or friends, milestone celebration, or girls weekend away. Cornwallis House was winner of the 2012 Greater Sydney Tourism Award as Regional Champion and is accredited with a 4½ star rating with AAA Tourism. 45 Cordners Lane, Cornwallis NSW 2756 enquiries@cornwallishouse.com.au

PH: 02 4577 6535 www.cornwallishouse.com.au

M: 0423 623 916

New South Wales Benedict House If you are a jewellery fanatic, Benedict House has to be on the top of your list of bead shops to visit in Queanbeyan. Discover the mystery of beads and be inspired by the unique collection of designer jewellery and the handmade glass beads. Benedict House is a jewellery and painting studio, bead shop and cafe located in a former girl’s boarding school and convent in Queanbeyan. Owner of Benedict House, Kate Shelton, sells designer jewellery, as well as a mixed range of vintage and contemporary gifts and accessories. The bead shop is a bead enthusiast’s heaven as stocks include beads sourced from all over the world, including fair-trade Kazuri beads from Africa, contemporary hand blown glass beads from Venice and hand blown glass beads from Greece, Kenya and Czech Republic, as well as vintage pieces under the label ‘mumba’. Choosing the right beads for your project can take some time so make sure you have a break in The Refectory Cafe open Wednesday to Sunday serving lunch & afternoon tea. While you dine, you can enjoy the old world ambience indoors, or when the weather is fine, you can soak up the sun in a lovely courtyard and garden. At The Refectory you can meet up with your friends and enjoy a fresh pot of tea served in delicate china cups, if you like to indulge a little more Sunday afternoon High Tea at Benedict House will give that little edge to your afternoon tea. High teas are booked out weeks in advance so be sure to get in early. Benedict House has a reputation for its “fresh food” and “buy local” ideals, with the salads featuring home grown products and local supplies. Delicious cakes are made by Kate in the Benedict House kitchen every morning and you can purchase a signed copy of her book, Love of a Laminex Table. 39 Isabella St, Queanbeyan NSW 2620 info@benedicthouse.com.au

Ph: 02 6284 2868 www.benedicthouse.com.au

Penrith Whitewater Stadium Are you looking for the ultimate adrenalin rush? A thrill a minute, action packed whitewater rafting experience at the Penrith Whitewater Stadium is bound to be the sporting activity you are looking for. Constructed of both natural and manufactured materials to recreate the characteristics of a wild river it is the only man-made river of its kind in the southern hemisphere. For the novice rafter, the Guided Rafting tour is your introduction to whitewater rafting; you don’t need any experience, just a taste for adventure. To push your adrenalin button to the extreme, Self-Guided Rafting is the most challenging rafting trip and definitely not for the faint hearted! If you are looking for the perfect gift for someone who has everything, give them a 90 minute guided whitewater rafting session that includes raft, equipment, instruction and a fully trained guide. The stadium was purpose built for whitewater kayaking and canoeing and this is a fantastic way to take your adrenaline to the next level. From the flatwater lake to Grade 3 rapids, whether you are a beginner or advanced kayaker, you will find a course to suit you. Penrith Whitewater Stadium is also the ideal venue to conduct swiftwater rescue courses. The Swiftwater Rescue Awareness(SRA) is a one-day hands on introduction to swiftwater, basic rescue equipment and techniques and the Swiftwater Rescue Technician 1 (SRT1) is an intensive three-day course designed by Rescue 3 International. Penrith Whitewater Stadium is the ultimate venue for whitewater paddling with 320 metres of solid grade-three water designed to test the skills of the best paddlers in the world. McCarthy’s Lane, Cranebrook NSW 2749 bookings@penrithwhitewater.com.au

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

Jenolan Caves

Experiences

If you are looking for one of Australia’s most amazing experiences, the Jenolan Caves will meet every expectation. Regarded as Australia’s most outstanding cave system, with pure underground rivers and amazing limestone crystal formations, adventure caving is about leaving the paths and fixed lights and venturing to the depths of the earth. Are you visiting the Jenolan Caves for the first time? The Wonders of the Underworld Tours take you on a magical trip through large chambers like those you will find in the Lucas, Imperial and Chifley Caves. To add to your cave exploration experience Jenolan is a perfect place for a romantic getaway or family adventure. Stay in the Jenolan Caves House Hotel, backpacker lodge or self-contained Binoomea Cottage and dine at the Heritage-listed award-winning Chisolm’s Restaurant, or take some time out to relax on the Bistro terrace or enjoy drinks in the cosy Jeremiah’s Bar. Your wedding celebration or corporate function will be something to remember if you choose the world-renowned Cathedral Chamber in Lucas Cave, or you can host your event in one of the three magnificent reception areas. Jenolan Caves forms part of the Greater Blue Mountains World Heritage Area and the six scenic bush tracks will take you through the pristine wilderness. In the quiet of the early morning or at dusk, you can enjoy your walk with the myriad wild native animals and birds. From adventure caving, celebrating a wedding or holding a corporate function, the Jenolan Caves will leave a lasting impression on everyone. 4655 Jenolan Caves Rd, Jenolan Caves NSW 2790 reception@jenolancaves.org.au

Ph: 1300 76 33 11 www.jenolancaves.org.au

Tertini Wines If you enjoy a good drop of Australian Wine, Tertini Wines will be able to meet your requirements, as they are dedicated to producing premium, cool climate wines. Their wines are subtle and elegant, with excellent fruit characters arising from hand picking and low cropping. High natural acidity ensures the wines have a clean finish and good cellaring potential. The “Yaraandoo” vineyard is located near the historic village of Berrima in the Southern Highlands, an emerging cool climate region in New South Wales, at the relatively high altitude of 715 metres. The recently released Tertini Wines 2009 Reserve Pinot Noir was one of the stars of the 2012 NSW Wine Awards, taking the Trophy for Best Pinot Noir. Tertini’s range of Rieslings have won Trophies and Gold medals at every level of competition and the current releases are in keeping with this tradition. A beautifully balanced wine, Tertini Pinot Gris is a great example of this easy-drinking style; pale straw in colour with rich aromas of pear and stone fruit integrated with lees and barrel notes. Image courtesy of Tourism Australia

For a different fruity taste Tertini’s 2011 Reserve Arneis features perfumed aromas of pears, peaches and apple while the palate shows broad stone fruit flavours, fresh hints of citrus and a delicious lingering aftertaste of green herbs. Visitors are welcome to taste and purchase their wine at their Cellar Door attached to the winery. Can you think of a better way to entertain guests than with a good bottle of wine? Kells Creek Road, Mittagong NSW 2575 sales@tertiniwines.com.au

Ph: 02 4878 5213 www.tertiniwines.com.au

t has been just a short few hours’ drive from Sydney, the sun is settling over the rolling landscape lined with vineyard vines and the sweet scent of the countryside fills the air. This is the Hunter Valley region, known for its great wines and a destination as a gourmet paradise. More than 150 wineries are scattered through the Hunter Valley region, including Pokolbin, Wollombi, Broke, Lovedale and Maitland. Amongst the vineyards you will notice Al Fresco Cafe’s and fine dining restaurants that make your mouth water just looking at them. Breaking the country wilderness and vineyards are stylish boutique accommodations, welcoming guesthouses, Bed & Breakfast rooms and spa retreats. Golf courses blend in with their surrounds and the occasional homestead adds to the country feel. Whether you are looking for a lazy holiday, a long weekend, or even a quick day trip, then the Hunter Valley is the destination to head for. Many of the wineries in this area have award winning restaurants offering delicious fare and fine dining. With an abundance of local sources, you can be sure that your meal will be made with the fresh local produce that helps support the region. Food buffs can stock up on local olive oil, cheeses, coffees and smokehouse products. If you enjoy the food why not learn how to cook it yourself, and expand your skills in a cooking and wine class. Wining and dining go hand in hand, so it is a must to visit the cellar doors to these wineries where you can sample some great wines, including the area’s specialties, Shiraz, Semillon and Chardonnay. Here you can discuss the wines and learn about how they are made and some working wineries will even allow a tour to see the process first-hand. While the wine and culinary delights are a draw card for the Hunter Valley, the area offers a myriad of experiences and activities. Take to the air to get a better glimpse of the region in all its glory. Imagine waking to a champagne breakfast, followed by watching the sun rise over the vineyards while gliding through the air on a hot air balloon tour. However, if you are looking for something a little faster paced, take a scenic joy-flight in a helicopter. Many places in the Hunter Valley operate heli-tours, with some even transferring guests from Sydney to their accommodation for an extra special arrival. For those people who

prefer to keep their feet on the ground, you may want to take the chance to explore the area on two wheels. Bike tours are becoming a popular way to get around the region, and with many wineries within a short ride from each other, why not burn off some of those calories you put on at breakfast and explore by bike. Still not convinced the ballooning, helicopter or bike is for you? Step back in time and travel around the traditional way, by horse and cart. Horse riding tours will provide a unique way to explore off road and really get a sense of the country life. Children are welcome on these tours and offer a fantastic family experience especially when taking along a picnic lunch. The Hunter Valley has an abundance of wonderful scenery and Australian wildlife in their natural habitat. Set in the historic district of Pokolbin and nestled amongst the foothills of the Brokenback Ranges in the heart of the Hunter vineyards is 25 hectares of living colour known as the Hunter Valley Gardens. From manicured gardens move to the velvet greens of the Hunter Valley golf course. Tee off on some of Australia’s most scenic holes, set amongst a spectacular backdrop of vineyards and rugged mountain ranges. After a day of exploring all the Hunter Valley has to offer nothing could top it off more than relaxing with a spa treatment at one of the many spa retreats. Alternatively, maybe a glass of the local wine with a tasty cheese platter whilst watching the sun dip beyond the mountains would do the trick.

Image courtesy of Tourism New South Wales

Hunter Valley

Hunter Valley Banjos Bushland Retreat Banjos Bushland Retreat is just two hours from Sydney in the beautiful Hunter Valley. Its three luxury lodges are set on 20 acres of private unspoiled bushland. Brumby’s Run, Clancy’s Lodge and Swagman’s Rest range in size from two to four bedrooms. All have ensuites, air conditioning and king size bed – perfect after a long day of exploring. All bedroom and bathroom linen is supplied; all bedrooms have ensuites, king size beds and reverse cycle air conditioning. Retreat activities include tennis, mini golf, table tennis, billiards, giant chess, and if you are feeling a little exhausted after such energetic activity, take a swim in the salt-water swimming pool, or a relaxing time in an indoor spa, or sauna. Don’t worry about the children, the adventure playground and swings will entertain your youngsters for hours. All activities are at no extra cost. Visit the Environmental Centre, which is equipped with extensive literature relating to the flora and fauna that surrounds Banjos. For those who prefer to abandon themselves in bushwalking there’s plenty of opportunity to get involved with nature on the many bushwalking trails where you will meet an abundance of friendly wildlife certain to delight everyone! Banjos is also close to local wineries, your choice of three golf courses, a heritage township and arts and crafts centre. For large groups Banjos can also organise personalised wine tastings. Banjos is a multi-award winning retreat and will be a holiday to remember. Moonbung Mountain Range, Vacy NSW 2421 jenny@banjosretreat.com.au

Ph: 02 9403 3388 www.banjosretreat.com.au

Billabong Moon Are you looking for a secluded escape in a stunning natural setting, just a short drive from Sydney? Billabong Moon is located among the vineyards and olive groves at Pokolbin, in the Lower Hunter Valley. Set amongst stands of casuarinas over 25 acres, you will find a haven where you can leave reality behind and enjoy a relaxing and private atmosphere. Whether you are after a weekend break or a holiday, Billabong Moon offers boutique accommodation with Australian character of full brick construction and verandahs all round. The five cottages are spread across the property, screened by natural vegetation or situated to take advantage of the views, to ensure you and your loved one have the ideal retreat experience. Choose from a variety of cottage options – views over the water; nestled amongst your own Casuarina forest surrounded by a sea of blue plumbago; a romantic Bohemian atmosphere; sleeping high with the tree tops; or you might choose to enjoy rural views including vines, cattle, forest and the Brokenback Range. No matter what you decide, you can ensure your stay will be relaxed as you wind down after a day of exploring. Relax with a glass of local wine on your own private verandah, enjoy a spa or hot tub, or try the famous Red Wine Bath experience. With cellar doors, wineries, fine dining and great cafes, galleries and horse riding all within a few minutes, Billabong Moon on Hermitage Road is the ideal destination for an escape. 393 Hermitage Rd, Pokolbin NSW 2320 info@billabongmoon.com.au

Ph: 02 6574 7290 www.billabongmoon.com.au

Experiences

Adina Vineyard & Olive Grove Just a short trip from Sydney in the beautiful Hunter Valley you will find Adina Vineyard and Olive Grove where you can spend some time out with your friends over a glass of wine. Take a moment to stop at the cellar door, with views across the vineyard. The Adina cellar door features not only award winning wines but farm grown and processed olives, olive oils and tapenades. Try all the wines including our gold medal Shiraz, Pinot Grigio and Sangiovese from some of Australia’s oldest vines and of course the great Semillon and Chardonnay. If you are planning a weekend away with the family, the architecturally designed three bedroom lodges on Adina Vineyard each sleep up to six people in great comfort. Each bedroom features king or queen beds, private en-suite bathroom, individual air conditioners and ceiling fans and one of the lodges is equipped with features suitable for people with a disability. In the evening, take a good bottle of wine out onto the deck, light up the BBQ and then sit back and relax. For that extra luxury, why not spend some time in the Hunter Valley Reflections Day Spa. Be pampered by fully qualified therapists and enjoy one of the special spa packages. 492 Lovedale Rd, Lovedale NSW 2325 info@adinavineyard.com.au

Ph: 02 4930 7473 www.adinavineyard.com.au

Boutique Tours Boutique Tours Australia specialises in small group departures to Sydney’s best regions. Tours are enhanced by comfortable vehicles and highly experienced guides. With over 130 wineries to choose from wine lovers will be completely satisfied with Sydney’s best, award-winning Boutique Wine Tours to the Hunter Valley. Include cheese, olive, chocolate or fudge tastings to excite the taste buds. Enjoy the behind-scenes tour, and browse the shops and galleries to find that much sought after souvenir. Avoid the crowds with a personalised Boutique Mountain Tour to Sydney’s beautiful Blue Mountains. Visit the Waradah Cultural Centre and experience aboriginal culture. The mountains take on different moods each day so the itinerary is tailored to showcase the best. On radiant, sunny days, or days when the mist hangs low and the rain blankets the rainforest, there’s always something to see and experience. Forget the wildlife parks. In pristine farm and bushland of the Southern Highlands you have the opportunity to get close to iconic Australian animals and birds in their natural home with a Boutique Wildlife Tour. See Australia’s “Big 5” in the wild – kangaroos, koalas, platypus, wombats, emus – and much more. Enjoy nightspotting after dark, and a great dinner in one of Australia’s oldest pubs. Boutique Bespoke Tours are private, tailor-made tours within Sydney, and to Sydney’s leading regional destinations for those wanting an exclusive, high-end experience. Individuals, couples, families and small groups have the chance to experience Sydney and its regional areas in style, with a private Guide and private vehicle. Reservations: 1800 990 802 info@boutiquetoursaustralia.com.au

Ph: 02 9436 1333 www.sydneyboutiquetours.com.au

nspoiled beaches and bays are backed by a vast green hinterland of forests and mountains, creating the perfect blend for a holiday on the South Coast of New South Wales. Stretching from Sydney’s Royal National Park to Eden, near the Victorian border, the South Coast region offers a myriad of fun for the whole family and with the majority of the region within three hours from Sydney it’s easily accessible whether you are after a day trip, or something longer term. The South Coast region includes an abundance of activities, from water sports such as fishing, diving and snorkelling, sailing, canoeing and kayaking, right through to fine gourmet dining, art galleries and antique shops. You will also find a seemingly endless supply of walks through the region’s national parks, marine parks and nature reserves and you will never be lost when it comes to good accommodation and fresh food, particularly the local supplies of sweet Clyde River oysters, tuna, mussels and kingfish, all of which hail from the rivers, estuaries and seas. There is a wide variety of towns and districts which are well worth the visit in the South Coast area and a great way to explore is by following the Grand Pacific Drive from Sydney; starting just north of Wollongong, which lies just 80 kilometres south of Sydney and is the third largest city in New South Wales. The city is at the Illawarra escarpment and has the largest Buddhist Temple in Australia - Nan Tien Buddhist Temple. Just a few kilometres from the heart of the city is Port Kembla, one of three major ports in the state. The port was established in the late 1890’s to facilitate the export of coal from the Illawarra regions mines. Originally the port serviced regional industries, like coal and steel, but today it has grown to accommodate more traditional industries. Shellharbour is in the heart of the Illawarra region, between the sparkling waters of the Tasman Sea and the Illawarra Escarpment, with Lake Illawarra to the north and the Minnamurra River in the south. The beaches and forest

make it an ideal holiday destination and there are unlimited opportunities for both relaxing and exploring in the area. While in this region take in the Killalea State Park and the famous surfspot, The Farm, or spend time visiting Minnamurra Rainforest as you make your way further down the coastline. Further south, famous for its blowhole and lighthouse, Kiama overlooks the coastline and has several popular surfing beaches, as well as numerous caravan parks, cafes and restaurants. Kiama has an interesting history, having been the site of two volcanic flows, the Gerringong Volcanics. The blowhole was formed as part of the erosion process of more recent rock and the region was originally the home of Aboriginal tribe Wodi Wodi, with evidence dating back more than 17,000 years. It is believed the area was originally covered in rainforest and cedar bush and today, only a few remnants of this remain. There is said to be strong evidence showing a mega-tsunami hit this coast around 1487. The first European to explore the area was George Bass who stopped there on his whaleboat voyage to Bass Strait on 6 December 1797. Less than 30 kilometres from Kiama lies Shoalhaven – which stretches from Berry in the north to Durras in the south. Shoalhaven’s attractions include a contrast of forests and beaches and it is home to the famous Jervis Bay, the Kangaroo Valley, Ettrema Wilderness, Budawang Ranges and Morton National Park. It is a popular vantage point to watch the whales as they make their annual migration, coming within just three kilometres of the coastline. Take a walk through Jervis Bay National Park to the lookout to watch the spectacle. The whales make their way north from around June, and return south between September to November. Seven Mile Beach, part of the Shoalhaven River delta, is a fisherman’s haven and another popular sight is the Hamden Bridge, a suspension bridge across the Kangaroo River which is a medieval style bridge and the oldest surviving suspension bridge in the country. You can continue to travel further down the coast to explore the Eurobodalla region, including Batemans Bay, the seaside villages of Tomakin, Mossy Point and Broulee, and Central Tilba and Tilba Tilba; and along the Sapphire Coast where you can visit Bega, famous for its cheeses, Mimosa National Park, the old whaling town of Eden and Wallega Lake. No matter how far you take your trip, there is something on the South Coast for everyone with beaches to suit every taste, and a variety of things to do whether you are on a family holiday or a romantic weekend away.

Image courtesy of Tourism New South Wales

The South Coast

The South Coast Seaview Beach Houses The blue, red and yellow Seaview Beach Houses Bermagui are in one of the best locations in town and they’re only a short walk from the beach, the river, the main street, Fishermen’s Wharf and the Country Club. With views of the ocean and Mount Dromedary you have the best of both worlds in one place. Originally built in 1938 and completely rebuilt in 2012, the houses include all the modern conveniences to make your holiday a relaxing getaway. Each Beach House has a balcony with ocean views so you can spend some time and take in the salty air. Features include fully equipped kitchen including dishwasher, washing machine and ironing facilities, flat screen TV. Linen and bath towels are provided, making your packing a little bit lighter. The Cottage has three bedrooms and can sleep up to eight people. Designed to create an open plan kitchen and lounge area, the Cottage is well suited to families or larger groups. Beach Houses number 1, 2 and 5 sleep six people, while 3 and 4 each sleep up to five people. Family oriented, one bedroom has a queen bed and the second bedroom has a tri-bunk. Beach House number 6 also sleeps up to five people. This Beach House is a purpose built as a disabled unit, with wheelchair access as well as full disabled facilities, has a large bathroom and living/sleeping areas. Seaview Beach Houses is the perfect destination for your family holiday as you are in close proximity to the harbour, excellent restaurants and golf courses. Whatever holiday you have in mind, Seaview Beach Houses offer the ideal Bermagui accommodation. 86-88 Lamont St, Bermagui NSW 2546 lenandwendy@internode.on.net

Ph: 02 6493 3444 www.seaviewbeachhouses.com.au

Southern Biplane Adventures Do you want a super adrenalin rush? The team at Southern Biplane Adventures delivers one of Australia’s most unique aerobatic and scenic open-cockpit biplane experiences. The flagship of the fleet is an immaculately rebuilt 1943 Boeing Stearman biplane named ‘Lilly Warra’. Today the Stearman is world renowned as an enchanting air show machine, and Lilly is the perfect platform for passengers to experience the golden age of aviation Adrenaline junkies, meet your match! The little brother of Lilly, the Pitts Special S-2C, has a bad case of ‘little biplane syndrome’. The Pitts S-2C is the most advanced of its kind on the market today, and is a little aerobatic monster, designed to push the limits. For the wannabe stunt pilot in the family, the G-UP experience is something they will remember. Are you planning a bucks or hens party? Twist and Shout is the ultimate adrenalin package where you can experience aerobatic stunt flying, and a sky dive from 14000ft. If you prefer less of an adrenalin rush, take a nostalgic step back into aviation history with The Smithy and follow the initial path of the first commercial flight between Australia and New Zealand. For a weekend away with a difference, the High in the Sky package is ideal. This is a flights and accommodation package for two with one night’s accommodation in an executive suite at the Chifley Wollongong. Southern Biplane Adventures can take you to places you might only dream of in an aircraft you have only ever imagined being in. Illawarra Regional Airport, Albion Park Rail NSW 2527 info@southernbiplanes.com.au

Ph: 02 4257 9440 www.southernbiplanes.com.au

Experiences

2013 Illawarr a Music Festival Following the great success of the 2011 Illawarra Music Festival, Wollongong Conservatorium of Music is proud to present the 2013 Illawarra Music Festival; a fusion of musical genres drawing from Australia’s premier ensembles and the best of community music. This year’s festival will present local and interstate musicians across several genres with the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra and vocal ensemble Idea of North topping the bill. There will be a significant component of community involvement through the “Illawarra Sings” workshop and concert with Idea of North, a workshop involving over 200 people singing and workshopping together, as well as a “Festival Strings” workshop and concert. The 2013 Illawarra Music Festival is booked in for Friday 24 May to Sunday 26 May 2013, so be sure to mark the date on your calendar. Wollongong Conservatorium of Music has become the centre of excellence for musical education and performance in the Illawarra. It has been a focal point for the musical life of the region for over forty years, serving the Illawarra community through its education and performance programs. The Conservatorium offers opportunities that are not available elsewhere in the Illawarra. They run Australia’s longest-running program of EarlyChildhood Music, catering for students from the age of one, they offer instruction in classical, jazz, folk and many other musical styles and they have 22 ensembles rehearsing every week at the Conservatorium, with complementary programs running in 27 local schools. Put simply, they are the music in the community. Gleniffer Brae, Murphys Ave, Keiraville NSW 2500 enquiries@wollcon.com.au

Ph: 02 4228 1122 www.wollcon.com.au

The Chifley Hotel The Chifley Hotel Wollongong is a new, ultra-modern hotel located just over an hour drive from Sydney on the scenic NSW South Coast. The hotel features 168 guest rooms and suites with all the modern facilities you would expect. The spacious Junior Suites offer a separate minilounge and dining area with basic kitchenette, ideal for entertaining or simply providing extra space to relax. For the ultimate indulgence in what truly is royalty the Chifley Suites located on the highest floor of accommodation come with captivating and breath taking views of Wollongong.

Image courtesy of Tourism New South Wales

The Chifley Hotel Wollongong is the perfect events venue, with extensive facilities for meetings, seminars or special events. For a wedding with style, The Watersedge room offers floor to ceiling windows with views overlooking the hotel pool, and glimpses of the ocean. This room can seat up to 120 guests and offers direct access to an outdoor terrace. If you are looking for a good cup of coffee, the C Bar located in the hotel lobby is the place to relax and unwind. For a superb dining experience the Hotel is also home to the C Grill Restaurant featuring signature prime cuts of beef charred to perfection accompanied by delicious sides and decadent desserts for the most discerning foodie. For a romantic weekend away, or a memorable wedding experience book yourself into the Chifley Hotel Wollongong. 60-62 Harbour St, Wollongong NSW 2500 reservations.wollongong@chifleyhotels.com

Ph: 02 4201 2111 www.chifleywollongong.com

ess than two hours flight from Sydney or Brisbane lies a crescent shaped stunning natural paradise that remains both uncrowded and unspoilt – Lord Howe Island.

Lord Howe Island is a remnant of a volcanic past and is one of just four island groups which are part of the UNESCO World Heritage list. The natural beauty, incredible geology and unusual collection of birds, plants and marine life that awaits visitors is enhanced through a range of activities and sights to visit, providing a historical and alluring treasure trove of fun. The population of the island is just a few hundred people, and to ensure the island remains as stunning as always, the number of tourists allowed to visit at any one time never exceeds 400 people. The island was first sighted in 1788 but it wasn’t until 1934 when it was permanently settled as a provisioning port for the whaling industry. Many of the descendents of these early settlers, European and American whalers, have remained on the island for more than six generations. Much of the population on the island lives in the north and is made up of many families of early settlers – European and American whalers, who have lived on the island for more than six generations. The south of the island is predominantly forest and there are many smaller islands that are also part of the Lord Howe Island Group. The island’s crystal lagoon is surrounded with a coral reef, where you can snorkel and scuba dive to your heart’s content, feeling right at home with the many tropical and sub-tropical fish and other marine life that spend their days here. Lord Howe Island Marine Park stretches around the Admiralty Islands in the north to Balls Pyramid and South East Rock in the south, covering an area of around 48,000 hectares. You will be amazed and surprised at how clear the waters here are and marine lovers will not be disappointed with the array of life that surrounds the island. Glass bottom boats also operate in the lagoon, providing a different view of the life below. There is a range of other water activities for visitors, with everything from surfing and kayaking to fishing for Kingfish, Yellow Fin Tuna and Wahoo. If you prefer to stay on land, there are a range of bushwalks and hikes in the area, including Mt Gower, which dominates the southern tip of the island. This 875 metre high climb is rated one of the world’s best day walks, but it is not for the f

aint hearted. Once you reach the top though, you will be rewarded with the most stunning views of this beautiful island and beyond. With the island providing the shortest routes to all the tourist spots, the main means of transport on the island is bicycle – and you have not truly experienced Lord Howe until you have experienced it on a self-guided tour on two wheels. The island has around 13 kilometres of scenic roads and tracks, and with the speed limit for cars set at 25 kilometres an hour, bikes rule the roads. As distances to sites of interest are short, cycling is the main means of transport on the island. Tourist activities include golf (9-hole), lawn bowls, tennis, fishing (including deep-sea game fishing), yachting, windsurfing, kite surfing, kayaking, and boat trips (including glass-bottom tours of the lagoon Two main beaches provide the backdrop for tourism. Ned’s Beach was voted Australia’s cleanest beach in 2005 and gives you the chance to get deep into the culture and help to feed the mullet, wrasse, garfish, emperor, drummer and kingfish that grow to a metre! Ned’s Beach is also a fantastic place to go for beachcombing and reef walking. On the eastern side of the island is the popular Blinky Beach where you will be able to refresh yourself with a nice swim, snorkel or fish. The choice of accommodation includes everything from luxury lodges to apartments and villas and with the island being so small, you will find a few of the necessary stores – a baker, butcher, general store, bottle shop and post office. At the end of the day, or if you’re feeling like a treat at breakfast or lunch, there is a variety of choice with take-aways and restaurants, or you might like to join the large number of visitors who opt to treat themselves to a barbecue or fish and chips on the beach. Lord Howe Island is a stunning backdrop to the perfect relaxing holiday.

Lord Howe Island

A Stunning Backdrop To A Perfect Holiday

Image courtesy of Tourism New South Wales

by Tara Downey

Oxley Travel Relax, explore and enjoy Lord Howe Island and Norfolk Island with Oxley Travel. With thirty years experience organising travel to Lord Howe and Norfolk, they guarantee to find you some affordable deals on an extensive variety of activities and accommodation to suit every budget.

eading to Lord Howe Island? Choose from a range of accommodation options. From tranquil settings amongst palms and banyan trees, to beachside resorts, you will be spoilt for choice with where to rest your head after a long day of exploring. Take time out at one of the wellness spas located in some of the accommodation options, enjoy a gourmet breakfast and light lunch at one of the many restaurants and cafes, and indulge in selected pre-dinner drinks or a three course dinner.

a comprehensive range of meat and food supplies. If you fancy a good old BBQ you will find plenty of them located at various beautiful scenic spots on the Island.

For the cruising enthusiast the 16knot cruiser Carina will get you to your fishing destination sooner so you have more time for fishing. It is also available for scenic cruising and private charter. Or to view the spectacular underwater scenery in shallow lagoons or outer reef, experienced instructors and dive masters will take you to some of the best places and for the more Lord Howe Island offers travellers experiences diver, Admiralty Island a wide range of tours and activities and Ball’s Pyramid dives are a must like fishing, diving and snorkelling. If see. you feel like an exciting adventure, take the family on a Turtle tour or If touring is your choice of activity, coral viewing. For a spectacular Oxley Travel also have a range of view and a photographers dream, high quality, natural history tours you can trek to the summit of Mt including coral viewing from glass Gower. Mount Gower dominates bottom boats, specialty night the southern tip of Lord Howe snorkelling tours. They can also Island and has its peak at 875 cater for the keen bushwalker with metres. Average climbing time to seabird tours to Blackburn Island Mount Gower’s summit is between and the Admiralty Islets. If you 8 and 10 hours. The path is rope- feel like touring at your own pace, assisted and rated as one of the Wilson’s have a wide range of quality world’s best one-day hikes. bicycles for hire at the Islands best price or you can hire a car. The island’s dining options are many and varied with choices Taking a break at Norfolk Island? ranging from fish and chips to Oxley Travel also offer a range of sophisticated fine dining. Fresh accommodation options, from local Kingfish is something you fully self contained apartments in a must have and is readily available park like setting, to heritage island at most restaurants. For those cottages and lodges. No matter who prefer to self-cater there what your preference, you will enjoy are three general stores with comfort in style.

Norfolk Island is a place with an extraordinary history, having originally been settled by Polynesians and first settled by Europeans in 1788 when 15 convicts were among others who chose to make Norfolk Island their home. Struggles saw the island abandoned until the early 1800s when colonial authorities decided to try again – failing once more, with the island eventually handed over by Queen Victoria to the descendants of the mutineers from the HMS Bounty. Norfolk Island offers a range of great things to do and see for all kinds of experiences – from windsurfing and snorkelling; right through to lawn bowls and golf. With more than 30 first class dive sites, scuba diving is extremely popular and the island offers many sites where divers want to return to again and again. If you’ve never done it before, there are courses available, including a half day which includes a dive in the safety of a lagoon; or a 7 day professional course earning you international diving qualifications. If fishing is more your thing, you might take a trip out with a professional local fisherman on a well equipped boat, looking to catch a variety of fish including Red Emperor, Kingfish, Grouper, Snapper, Trevally and Rock Cod. There is so much to see and do on Norfolk Island and Oxley Travel are the experts who will take you on a journey you will never forget. Contact Oxley Travel today and start planning your next holiday to Lord Howe or Norfolk Island. Oxley Travel Free Call 1800 671 546 holidays@oxleytravel.com.au www.oxleytravel.com.au

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Specialising Exclusively in Lord Howe Island & Norfolk Island Free Call 1800 671 546 | holidays@oxleytravel.com.au | www.oxleytravel.com.au

Norfolk Island

Leave The Hustle And Bustle Behind by Tara Downey

It was first settled from seafarers from New Zealand who arrived in the 14th and 15th Centuries, before Captain James Cook arrives in 1774 – who named the island after Mary Howard, the Duchess of Norfolk. When the First Fleet arrived at Port Jackson in January 1788 a party of 15 convicts and seven free men were sent to take control of the island and during the first year, more convicts and soldiers arrived to enhance its commercial development. In the years that followed, the island was transformed into a prosperous region, particularly through the export of the Norfolk Island Pine, which can reach heights of up to 57 metres; while retaining all of its splendour and tranquillity. An ideal place to take a holiday away from the hustle and bustle of every day mainland life, the island has come a long way in the past few hundred years yet it still holds onto its original character. When you visit Norfolk, you can’t go past the Kingston and Arthurs Vale Historic Area, which played an important role in the creation of the convict settlement of the area. It is also the only site in Australia which shows evidence of early Polynesian settlement. The site, located on the southern side of the island, has been declared a World Heritage Area as an Australian Convict

Image courtesy of Tourism Norfolk Island

stunning contrast awaits – a forest of evergreen pine sits in the midst of millions of empty square kilometres of water ... this is the beauty of Norfolk Island. A mere dot from the sky, Norfolk Island is part of the Commonwealth of Australia and has been since 1901.

Site and is an old settlement which still houses a group of buildings from that era. Visitors can take a guided tour through a harsh and brutal history, follow the walking trails and see the innovative developments that were part of criminal rehabilitation or visit the open house at the public research centre, No. 9 Quality Row. Enjoy a barbecue and a bushwalk in a maze of spectacular scenery the National Park, with walking tracks taking you through a forest of the tallest ferns in the world to the most outstanding viewpoints – Mt Pitt and Mt Bates – where you can look out across this magnificent island. The Botanic Gardens will help you to learn more about the wildlife of the island and will leave you in awe as you stand amongst the endangered g reen parrots, found only on Norfolk Island. If you are after something a little more laid back, a recommendation would be to visit the Cyclorama – a 360 degree panoramic painting that portrays a 3-D view of the history of the island. Here, you can walk inside the painting and wonder at the realism behind the detailed artwork. It was created by local artists who created the 3-D illusion through the use of sand and polystyrene rocks. Sightseeing on the island is fantastic, but there is no better way to truly explore Norfolk Island than to take to the waters and don’t worry – there is something for everyone! Whether you are an adventure seeker who will get your kicks out of a deep sea fishing tour, or if you want to explore the lagoon, feed the fish, or do a snorkel and reef walk, no matter what your choice, you will be treated to some of the most beautiful sea life the Pacific has to offer. Day trips to Phillip Island are also popular. This uninhabited wonder is around six kilometres south of the main island and is of volcanic origin dating back millions of years. The island’s vegetation diminished with the introduction of pigs, goats and rabbits in the 1800s with massive erosion giving it a reddish brown tinge, but with these animals long gone, natural revegetation has improved. And after a long day of exploring, rest assured you will find plenty to fill your rumbling stomach. Famous for its seafood, you can’t go past a freshly caught meal at one of the islands restaurants – with the local trumpeter a delicacy and a flavour any seafood lover would not want to miss. The island also boasts a variety of other local specialties based on traditional Polynesian dishes, as well as flavours from around the world. Just two hours flight from Brisbane, 2.5 from Sydney and 1.5 hours from Auckland, Norfolk Island is a paradise that is not to be missed and with warm temperatures all year round, it is a great place to visit at any time of the year.

f it’s been a while since your last visit to your nation’s capital then the city’s Centenary year is the perfect time to reacquaint yourself with its diverse offerings. Australians can join in the events and activities packed into a year-long packed calendar which celebrates 100 years since the foundation stones were laid for the nation’s capital. The Centenary program celebrates sport, science, arts, community, architecture, the environment, diverse cultures and big ideas. There are new and exciting programs and the very best of what already goes on in Canberra each year. The Centenary of Canberra is an opportunity to celebrate the history, heritage and democracy of one of the most successful planned cities in the world and to look towards the future, according to Centenary Creative Director, Robyn Archer AO. “From Australian Olympians, academic leaders and Nobel Prize winners to groundbreaking inventors, lauded artists and inspiring entrepreneurs, many have called Canberra ‘home’ at some point in their lives and still hold a great affection for the city. The Centenary is also an opportunity to share fond memories of Canberra and speak proudly of the leadership, action and ideas found here.” The Centenary year’s opening event is the National Gallery of Australia’s ToulouseLautrec: Paris & The Moulin Rouge exhibition, a retrospective of French artist Henri de Toulouse-Lautrec. Running until April 2, the exhibition features more than 100 paintings, posters, prints and drawings featuring loans from 30 public and private collections from around the world. While at the Gallery, take the time to wander the home of Australia’s impressive National Art Collection. February sees the opening of Canberra’s newest outdoor tourist attraction, the National Arboretum Canberra. Set alongside Lake Burley Griffin, the Arboretum features 100 forests and 100 gardens of threatened and symbolic trees from around Australia and the world. It will also include an impressive nature themed playground for families, visitor centre and bonsai pavilion housing the National Bonsai Collection. The Arboretum is the

realisation of Walter Burley Griffin’s plan for Canberra to include a ‘Continental Arboretum and Eventual Botanical Reserves’. Centenary events and exhibitions will run throughout 2013 at the national cultural attractions that hold and share the treasures of a nation. A number of attractions will themselves celebrate anniversaries or hold open days – you can find out more at canberra100.com.au. Sports lovers are well catered for with the first ever international cricket match to be played at historic Manuka Oval. On February 6 the Commonwealth Bank Series – One Day International Day Night match pits Australia against the West Indies. And from 14 to 17 February, see some of the world’s best players in the ISPS Handa Women’s Australian Open at Royal Canberra Golf Course. Later in the year, see the British and Irish Lions Vs Brumbies Rugby Union (8 June) and the WEMBO World Solo 24-Hour Mountain Bike Championships (October 12-13) at Canberra’s mountain biking mecca, Stromlo Forest Park. Annual events like Australia’s spring festival, Floriade (September 14 – October 13), will also have a Centenary twist. There’s also plenty of quirky and unusual activities taking place such as SPIN – Canberra’s weekend of all things on wheels (October) , from vintage caravans transformed into mini museums to vintage cars and skateboarding championships. SPIN Saturday includes a day of car-inspired community and arts happenings at an industrial site in Fyshwick including a performance by The Petrosexuals, a band which performs songs only about cars. Canberra’s not afraid to poke fun at stereotypes and the Centenary year sees the world premiere of The Major Minor Party, the rise of the ACT based Australian Sex Party (May 29 to June 1) at the Canberra Theatre Centre. While events and activities continue throughout the year, the regular happenings in Canberra continue. Explore the Canberra District’s 33 wineries within 35 minutes of the city centre. Clonakilla in the Murrumbateman district is famed for its Shiraz Viognier and was recently named by UK wine critic Matthew Jules in The 100 Iconic Wine Estates of the World. Visit Clonakilla and celebrate wine, food and art during the Summerside Festival along the Poacher’s Way each weekend in February. Other wine events throughout the year include the Fireside Festival (August), Murrumbateman Moving Feast (October), the Canberra International Riesling Challenge (October) and Wine, Roses and all that Jazz (November).

Australian Capital Territory CAPITALâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CELEBRATION OF A CENTURY

Image courtesy of Tourism Australia

by Tara Downey

Canberra continues to be a popular and affordable destination for families with children of all ages. Enjoy hands on science fun and the new Deep Oceans gallery at Questacon – The National Science and Technology Centre, take a tour of the Australian Institute of Sport with an elite athlete and use a touch screen to build a vehicle of the future at Kspace at the National Museum of Australia. There are plenty of outdoor activities on offer such as the National Zoo & Aquarium, Cockington Green Gardens and cycling around or paddling on Lake Burley Griffin. For something a little different, join a segway tour around the Lake or do a night-time cycling tour with Paralympian Michael Milton’s Big Foot Adventures. For a full list of events and exhibitions happening throughout the Centenary year and to book accommodation, go to visitcanberra.com. au or call 1300 554 114. You can find a detailed listing of the Centenary events on canberra100.com.au.

Canberra Events

The Big Birthday Long Weekend 8 to 12 March A massive program over five days includes old favourites such as the Lights! Canberra! Action! short film festival, the Balloon Spectacular and ENLIGHTEN in addition to a mix of events ranging from a roaring twenties gig to an open air screening of historic Canberra footage shot by renowned early filmmaker Raymond Longford. There’s also a rally of pre 1918 vehicles, the running of the Kamberra Wine Company Black Opal Stakes and ACTTAB Canberra Centenary Cup Race Day.

The actual 100th birthday extravaganza takes place on the ACT public holiday on 11 March. From midday create giant words on the north side of the lake with the Canberra.... in so many Words interactive event. In the afternoon toast the Centenary at The longest bubbly bars in the world, accompanied by tapas, along Lake Burley Griffin. From 4pm at various spots around Lake Burley Griffin you can relax to the reformed Canberra bands, folk and blues musicians, see Indigenous performances and a range of musical styles at the Symphony Stage in front of Old Parliament House. Later that evening hear the world premiere of composer Andrew Schultz’s Symphony Number 3 – Century. The day draws to a close with a fireworks finale and gourmet food and wine stalls on the Reconciliation Place lawns near the National Portrait Gallery. The official birthday, Tuesday 12 March, sees a number of celebratory events including a Canberra Day toast across the city at 11am, a ceremony to mark the 100th anniversary of Canberra’s official naming ceremony at the Foundation Stone in front of Parliament House, quirky Parties at the Shops event and presentation of medallions to people who have lived 50 years or more in Canberra amongst many other events!

Highlight Events

Australian War Memorial Open Day 6 April Tanks, planes, guns and bands will be on show for the Memorial’s first open day in six years. Go on a behind-the-scenes tour conducted by a curator, see rare military vehicles and equipment on display and enjoy a spectacular air show featuring aircraft both past and present. awm. gov.au Canberra District Wine Harvest Festival 6-7 April A weekend of wine, food and music complements the cool climate district’s annual harvest. Wineries from Bungendore, Lake George, Murrumbateman, Hall and the ACT are involved. canberrawines.com.au Symmetries - The Australian Ballet 23-25 May How do you make a ballet about Parliament House? Garry Stewart, artistic director of Australian Dance Theatre, answers the question with Monument, his Centenary tribute to one of Australia’s greatest monuments. The second part of Symmetries – Etudes showcases the growth of ballet technique.

Image courtesy of Tourism Australia

Australian Capital Territory

CAPITheticAL One hundred years ago the city of Canberra was a dream, a national capital of the future. The guiding principle of ‘one people, one destiny’ as Henry Parkes advocated, was to be symbolised in the design of this new city, planned by American architects Walter Burley Griffin and Marion Mahoney. The couple’s design, selected as the best from an international competition, was intended as an ideal city, one that responded to the concerns of the time.

Only 20 finalists were chosen presenting a rich trove of ideas, both fantastical and practical, to provoke, amuse and ultimately delight visitors to the exhibition.

One hundred years later, times have changed. Questions of sustainability, liveability, transport and climate change challenge the way we live today and must influence plans for the future.

CAPITheticAL opens at the Gallery of Australian Design on 6 March 2013 and winners will be announced on 14 March, sharing prizes worth up to $100,000. First prize is valued at up to $70,000. The gallery is open from Wednesday to Saturday, 10am til 4pm and is closed on public holidays and Sundays. Admission is free.

In the exhibition CAPITheticAL a new generation of town planners, urban designers, architects and students consider how Canberra might be extended and modified to accommodate the pressures and concerns of the future or even if a new capital should be created. To mark the Centenary of Canberra, a competition to design a hypothetical modern capital city for the next century was launched and more than 1200 practitioners registered their interest with entries received from 24 different countries.

Using plans, videos and drawings, each designer’s vision for the city of the future offers imaginative resolutions to questions of national symbolism and identity, access to government, sustainable development and community building for the year 2113.

Come and see the future!

44 Queen Elizabeth Terrace, Parkes, Canberra ACT 2600 Ph: 02 6273 1313 magdakeaney@gad.org.au www.canberra100.com.au

THE YORK CANBERRA When you visit Canberra, you want to stay somewhere that offers luxury accommodation within close proximity to the CBD. That’s why The York is the ultimate destination. Located in the fashionable boutique village of Kingston, The York is just minutes from the CBD and the Parliamentary Triangle and is ideal for both leisure and business travellers offering luxury apartments with a contemporary edge. The York offers the highest quality rooms, with 25 individually decorated, architecturally awarded suites featuring contemporary decor, with an emphasis on warmth and comfort. You can choose from either an open plan studio, or from one or two bedroom suites, with apartments including separate living and dining areas, fully equipped kitchens and an ensuite. Throughout the year, take a walk around the city and watch as it comes alive in 2013 with the Centenary celebrations. And if you’re here in spring, stay to experience the biggest flower festival in Australia, the Floriade, which showcases one million flowers in bloom.

If you want to find a great meal, but don’t want to wander too far from the hotel, The York is located opposite the very popular Kingston Village, where you can find a tantalising variety of food from across the globe. Here you can feast on some pizza or pasta at an Italian restaurant, enjoy some spring rolls with Vietnamese, or try a mouth watering breakfast or cake from the award winning Silo bakery. No matter what your mood is, you are sure to find something at Kingston Village which will satisfy that hunger. While you’re staying at The York, take the opportunity to discover the delights of Canberra from this ideal location. With a range of museums close by, you won’t need to go far to see icons like the National Portrait Gallery, Australian National Art Gallery and the War Memorial. And just 25 minutes away by transport is the iconic sports venue – Canberra Stadium.

31 Giles Street Kingston ACT 2604 Ph: 02 6295 2333 erin@yorkcanberra.com.au www.theyorkcanberra.com.au

The York Canberra Apartment Hotel

LUXURY LIVING AT ITS FINEST...

Located in the fashionable village of Kingston, minutes from the Parliamentary Triangle and CBD • Ideal for both leisure and corporate travellers alike • Luxury apartment accommodation with a contemporary edge • Select from 25 individually decorated studios or one and two bedroom suites • Stay at our unique luxury Kingston apartment hotel in Canberra.

The York Canberra 31 Giles St, Kingston, ACT 2604 | 02) 6295-2333 | theyork@yorkcanberra.com.au | www.yorkcanberra.com.au

Top 10 Must Do Activities

Whether your idea of a holiday means getting close to nature, taking a tour through history or experiences the great outdoors, Canberra will not disappoint. While the City is set to come alive in 2013 with the celebration of its Centenary, there are plenty of other activities to keep you entertained and leave you wanting more. We searched within and close by the city to give you a small taste of what Canberra has to offer, and came up with this list of Top 10 Must Do Activities. 1. Jerrabomberra Wetlands If you take a stroll through the Jerrabomberra Wetlands, you will find yourself in one of the most valuable wetland habitat areas in the State. The wetland is located on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin. It’s a refuge to large numbers of migrating waterbird and other species and you will find walking tracks taking you through the wetlands and habitats. If you’re here between September and March, just make sure you take mosquito repellent. 2. National Gallery of Australia The National art gallery was established in 1967 and holds more than 120,000 works of art. Before you even step into the building, you will be experiencing something amazing, with the building itself having been built in Brutalist style, from the late 20th Century, with angular masses, raw concrete surfaces and surrounded by sculpture gardens. 3. Spend a day at Lake Burley Griffin Take a canoe or a picnic around the artificial lake which covers an astounding 664 hectares. The man-made lake was completed in 1963 after the Molonglo River, between the city centre and Parliamentary Triangle, was dammed. Today it is a haven for water sports. There are also bike tracks around the Lake for those who like to be active on land as well as in the water. 4. Visit the National Portrait Gallery If you want to better understand the Australian people, their culture, identity and history, the National Portrait Gallery tells a story, from colonial portraits of Australia’s founding families, to celebrity photos. The building was purpose built and is a stunning design and the hundreds of portraits on show also portray the history of portraiture through the many styles on display. 5. Old Parliament House & Parliament House Step back into political history and visit the house of the Parliament of Australia from 1927 to

1988. The beautiful 1920s building has much of the interior offices remaining, just as they were when the tenants left to move to the new Parliament House. You might even get an opportunity to see the current parliament in action at the new Parliament House on Capital Hill. 6. Watching the sunrise at Mt Ainslie A great way to familiarise yourself with Canberra is through a trip to Mt Ainslie lookout, which looks over the lake, the war memorial and down Anzac Parade. The mountain is easy to get to by car and also gives you the chance to see native birds and eastern grey kangaroo. And if you are feeling particularly energetic, you might want to leave your car at the bottom and walk up. 7. History of Film & TV at Screen Sound Australia If you are a film and television buff, you will want to visit Screen Sound Australia. This national screen and sound archive holds 100 years of Australian film, radio and television history! That includes more than 1.3 million items, from discs, films, videos, audio tapes, phonograph cylinders and wire recordings, to supporting documents and artefacts. You are guaranteed to leave here an expert. 8. Stop at the cafe and explore Lanyon Homestead On the southern outskirts of Canberra is Lanyon, one of Australia’s most historic grazing properties dating back to the 1850s. Take a stroll through the gardens and admire the fully furnished and restored homestead and courtyard buildings. 9. Drift away with the Balloon Spectacular In March the sky over the city comes alive with colour with the Canberra Balloon Spectacular. More than 50 hot air balloons from around the world take to the skies in a myriad of shapes, sizes and colours. It’s a spectacular sight that you will want to include in your itinerary. During the rest of the year, there are a number of operators offering balloon tours, taking you over the city at dawn for a romantic start to the day. 10. Australian National Botanic Gardens Wander through the Australian National Botanic Gardens and admire the collection of Australian native plants. Nestled on a hillside, the gardens will not only inspire, they will educate. You will find an array of flora and fauna here. And be sure to keep an eye out for lizards, who love to pose for the camera.

Image courtesy of Tourism Australia

Australian Capital Territory

MAKERS OF MURRUMBATEMAN The village of Murrumbateman is home to many inspired and creative people whether it is making boutique AND award-winning wines, cooking delicious meals, designing unique artwork, creating divine chocolates or making cosy beds, the Makers of Murrumbateman represent the finest the village has to offer. The list of wineries is impressive and there is bound to be one that is sure to please your palate. Murrumbateman has a reputation for World Class Riesling and Shiraz but there is more to the wines of the area than just these two styles. Barton Estate Wines creates their wine from premium estate grown fruit and Dionysus Winery is a boutique winery producing quality wines while Eden Road Wines adds their own unique style to their wines. Four Winds Vineyard produces Shiraz, Riesling, Cabernet, Merlot, Chardonnay and Sangiovese and Gallagher Wines has gained a reputation for producing some of the best wines in the Canberra District. Granitevale Estate offers beautiful wines made to tradition, and Helm Wines was one of the first commercial wineries in the Wine Region and helped established the reputation for Riesling. Jeir Creek Wines produce elegant but powerful reds and crisp flavoursome whites and McKellar Ridge Wines produces high quality wines from specially selected parcels of grapes. Mundoonen Winery & Antiques makes wine exclusively from handpicked premium wine

grapes and Shaw Vineyard Estate continually produces a full range of superb quality wines year after year. Tallagandra Hill produces wine from premium grapes that have good flavour and high natural acidity and Yarrh Wines is a young, stylish winery consistently producing a range of hand crafted, high quality wines. Yass Valley Wines & Crisp Lane Café is a vineyard, cellar door and café all in one and Long Rail Gully is a boutique winery with sixty acres of vines, fast gaining a reputation for quality. For some serious pampering, Country Guesthouse Schonegg is the perfect rest point. Top that off with a good brew at Ideal Coffee specialising in Coffee Roasting and Barista Training and indulge in some deliciously smooth and creamy chocolate from Robyn Rowe Chocolates, hand crafted on site. Steve Hazael Photography will take your family portrait or an intimate photograph and Wins Creek Honey and Mead is the place to buy your favourite handcrafted honey. Murrumbateman is a vibrant rural village and whatever your desire, you will find it there.

Comur Street, Yass NSW 2582 Ph: 02 6226 2557 info@makersofmurrumbateman.org.au www.makersofmurrumbateman.org.au

The village of Murrumbateman is home to many inspired and creative people, whether it be making boutique or award-winning wines, delicious meals, unique artwork, divine chocolates or making cosy beds, we are the Makers of Murrumbateman.

Passionate Producers,

Creative Craftsmen

02 6226 2557 | info@makersofmurrumbateman.org.au | www.makersofmurrumbateman.org.au

NATIONAL ZOO & AQUARIUM Take a walk on the wild side at the National Zoo & Aquarium – the only combined Zoo and Aquarium in Australia and located conveniently just five minutes from the heart of Canberra. Situated on seven hectares of land, the park has a wide variety of both native and exotic animals, as well as the largest inland aquarium in the country!

one of these giants lick honey from your hands. On this award winning tour you might also come face to face with a giraffe and feel a python as it creeps over you, there is also a family friendly version designed with younger children in mind, the Family Tour allows them to come face to face with creatures both great and small.

The many animal encounters here will give you the opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the world’s most remarkable creatures. This is an experience you don’t want to miss! From an interactive encounter with a Cheetah, to behind the scenes tours and close encounters with Sharks, White Lions, Sun Bears, Giraffe & Eland, Red Pandas, Tigers and more, you will be able to set your untamed spirit free. The zoo has interactive talks and animal hand feeds on weekends and during school holidays and provides plenty of activities to keep the kids happy.

Walk on the Wild Side is said to be one of the most hands on animal experiences in the world and will take groups of up to four through the zoo on the opportunity of a lifetime, this all day experience gives you the opportunity to work with some of the largest and most dangerous animals. This tour is a must for anyone who has ever dreamed of being a zookeeper, or for the simple lover of animals.

The 2 hour Zooventure Tour will have you gasping for breath as a 150kg Tiger leaps up on the fence to take meat from your hand. Have a lion roar only inches from your face, watch otters display their amazing underwater skills or meet the brown bears and have

The National Zoo & Aquarium is open daily from 10am (closed Christmas) and parking is free.

Lady Denman Drive, Weston Creek ACT 2611 Ph: 02 6287 8400 www.nationalzoo.com.au

Australian Capital City Balloon Aloft Up, up and away in your beautiful balloon! Picture the joy of floating over the beautiful Canberra landscapes with your partner enjoying a glass of champagne as you glide gently over the spectacular landmarks of the nation’s capital in a Balloon Aloft hot air balloon. Would you like to be flown by an experienced pilot in your own exclusive balloon? Well you can! Balloon Aloft offers a unique balloon flight where you have the exclusive use of a hot air balloon for an amazing flight over Canberra. You will enjoy privacy and perhaps an opportunity to making a marriage proposal. A Balloon Aloft flight over Canberra is a wonderful experience and the perfect present for any occasion. A handwritten gift certificate will make someone feel special, especially with a souvenir picture card on which you can write a personal message. If you are looking for the ultimate gift to give the person who has everything, a Hot Air Balloon gift certificate could be the one they will remember. If that is not exciting enough then why not give a Balloon in a box! Inside a large hatbox, you will find a gift certificate rolled into a scroll and attached to a helium balloon. For the stuffed bear lover in the family then the Bear in a Box is a novel gift presented in a gift box with your gift certificate.

Photographer Sam Noonan

7 Irving St, Phillip ACT 2606 info@canberraballoons.com.au

Canberra is one of the most beautiful cities in the world and there is no better way to appreciate all of its natural charms, than from a Balloon Aloft flight. Ph: 02 6285 1540 www.canberraballoons.com.au

Canberr a Aviary Dreaming of flying away with the wind in your feathers? Bird and nature lovers will love Canberra’s Walk-in-Aviary at Gold Creek. With 1,000 square metres, this planted and privately owned aviary is home to around 500 free flying and friendly birds and provides the perfect setting for you to observe, photograph and feed these friendly animals. The aviary was developed to allow the public to enjoy an extensive collection of feathered friends, with up to 55 Australian native and foreign species living there at any one time. This includes finches, doves and quail, but by far the most numerous are Australian parrots like the Rainbow Lorikeet. As part of your admission price, you will be given a small plate of food so you can not only see the birds, but you can interact with them as well through hand feeding. Stand still as birds of all kinds and sizes come to feed – you might even have some land on you! You can also purchase a small tub of live Mealworms. The aviary is situated in the village of Gold Creek (www.goldcreek.com. au) in the Northern Canberra suburb of Nicholls. Entrance to the aviary is behind the Green Gold Garden Centre in O’Hanlon Place. The Walk-In-Aviary is open 7 days a week (excluding Christmas Day) from 10am to 5pm during September-April, and 11am to 3.30pm from May – August. Annual passes and group discounts are available. “Birds share our world. They are not just a part of God’s aviary.” Gold Creek Village, Nicholls ACT 2913 micklogan@iinet.net.au

Ph: 02 6230 2044 www.canberrawalkinaviary.com.au

Experiences

Canberr a Guided Tours

When you visit the Nation’s Capital next get in touch with Canberra Guided Tours, who will tailor a trip to suit your needs and take you to all the places of interest in the area. Canberra has grown into a thriving multicultural city with so much to see and do. Canberra Guided Tours team of experienced and professional guides, some multilingual, all with a wealth of knowledge, a love and passion for the city, and full of enthusiasm, will show you the best of Canberra and its surrounds. Full Day Tours start at 9am or 9.30am if you like a sleep in, with a trip to Mount Ainslie to view the city from the lookout. A tour of Parliament House & Old Parliament House and a visit to the National Museum and Australian War Memorial will show you some of the Nation’s history. Take a drive around Lake Burley Griffin and the Embassies before returning to your accommodation. For the garden fanatic amongst you, why not take a tour to Cockington Green Miniature Gardens, one of Canberra’s most well-known favourite places to visit, and visit the fabulous shops & galleries at Federation Square nearby. A drive to the country to see “Lanyon” completely restored, convict built homestead, onto Tidbinbilla nature reserve & the Space Tracking Station, is another way to appreciate Canberra & its’ beautiful surrounds. Canberra Guided Tours show case the Nation’s Capital, guaranteeing to give you a lasting impression. So let them do the hard work while you enjoy a memorable visit to Canberra. 12 Baddeley Crs, Spence ACT 2615 info@canberraguidedtours.com.au

Ph: 02 6258 9293 www.canberraguidedtours.com.au

Lake Burley Griffin Cruises For a truly memorable experience, enjoy the tranquillity of Lake Burley Griffin aboard an electric boat. See the sights and hear the inside stories from the skipper as he shares some of Canberra’s best-kept secrets. Sail close to the Captain Cook Memorial Water Jet and hear the Carillon (bell tower) as you pass Aspen Island. Watch and learn about aquatic birds and other flora and fauna around the lake as the skipper, Jim provides a commentary sure to be a highlight of your lake cruise. If you want a special morning out, then the Sunday Morning Tea Cruise is a special opportunity for a memorable experience. Sit back and relax on the two-hour morning tea cruise that takes you all the way past Black Mountain Peninsula and Weston Park to enjoy a privileged view of the Governor General’s residence from the lake. For a moonlight or sunset cruise, a hen’s party or wedding ceremony, Lake Burley Griffin Cruises provide private charters for small groups. During Canberra’s Balloon Festival, an early morning cruise allows you to get right amongst the action as the Hot Air balloons float over the lake, with some coming close enough to touch the water. In 2007 and 2009, Lake Burley Griffin Cruises received recognition for their services to tourism with a commendation and an “outstanding visitor experience” award in the ACT and Region Tourism Awards. For a unique experience, Lake Burley Griffin Cruises lets you to see the wonders Canberra holds as you drift quietly over the beautiful lake. We operate schedules cruises from mid September to the June long weekend and by arrangement in the off season. Our scheduled cruises depart from Acton Ferry terminal. Kuttabul Place, Acton ACT 2601 cruises@lakecruises.com.au

Ph: 0419 418 846 www.lakecruises.com.au

South Australia

A brilliant blend

by Tara Downey & Arabella Hille

outh Australia is the perfect blend. Best known for its award winning wines, Australia’s fourth largest state is brimming with stunning scenery to suit every taste. From Adelaide, to Kangaroo Island, Fleureau Peninsula and the Flinders Ranges, South Australia is a world like no other.

Voted Australia’s most livable city, the capital of the State Adelaide is teaming with history. Founded in 1836, the city enhances parkland, highlighted through public squares and wide boulevards. Originally shaped by religious freedom, its common description today is “The City of Churches”. The architecture within the city shows evidence of an elegant history, with top end shopping malls, markets, parks and the Port Adelaide harbour enhancing any visit. Within close reach of Adelaide, you will find the magical Adelaide Hills, stretching from the Barossa Valley in the north to Kuitpo Forest in the south. A drive through the countryside here will take you into another realm, with breathtaking wineries, tempting restaurants and picturesque farmland and villages, like the little German village of Hahndorf, where you can experience a taste of traditional Europe in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Take a wine and dine tour through the famous Barossa Valley, sampling local produce while admiring the spectacular landscapes that create this popular holiday destination. The many hectares of vineyards are distinctive and while you’re in the area, make sure you stop at the Mengler Hill lookout to experience a view like no other. Take the opportunity of a lifetime to dive or snorkel with leafy sea dragons on a visit to Fleurieu Peninsula - a fisherman’s haven, a surfer’s dream and a lady’s sanctuary; and spend a few days with Kangaroo Island’s pink pelicans and sea lions, fishing off the historic Emu Bay jetty, taking walks through the Parks and loading up on fresh local produce. Explore the parks and Spencer Gulf at the Eyre Peninsula, visiting oyster farms and admiring the volcanic rock of the region; or tour through the Flinders Ranges - the largest mountain range in South Australia, embarking on a journey through remote country, rich in Aboriginal history. There is so much to see and do in South Australia each visit will never seem long enough.

Adelaide

City of Churches

Rising from the middle of a tree covered plain, nestled amongst the hills and beaches lies the city of Adelaide – commonly known as the City of Churches. With its variety of striking historic architecture, boutique shopping, gorgeous natural parks and beaches, fantastic nightlife and fine dining, not to mention its’ close proximity to one of Australia’s best known wine regions, Adelaide is popular to both local and internationally visitors alike. The fifth largest city in Australia, you will find Adelaide on the Torrens River between the Gulf St Vincent and the low-lying Mount Lofty Ranges. It stretches 20 kilometres from the coast to the foothills and 90 kilometres from Sellicks Beach in the south to Gawler in the north. Founded in 1836, it was designed by Colonel William Light who chose the location due to its close proximity to the river. Originally inhabited by the Kaurna people, Adelaide was built in a grid layout to take advantage of space, with its wide roads, large public squares and parkland still admired today. In the early days, Adelaide was shaped by religious freedom and you will still find an array of stunning churches dating back more than 150 years. Listed in the Top 10 of The Economist’s World’s Most Liveable Cities index in 2010 and ranked the most liveable city in Australia by the Property Council of Australia in both 2011 and 2012, Adelaide is a city that will capture your heart. Explore the grand buildings along North Terrace, take a trip to the historic beachside suburb of Glenelg or take a walk along the popular Rundle Street, where you will find an array of dining options, cutting edge fashion stores and designer labels, home wares, jewellery, gifts and more. Take the time to visit Montefiore Hill in North Adelaide where you will be treated to a spectacular view of the city, particularly at night.

If you like museums and galleries, you won’t have any trouble finding something to suit, from Adelaide Zoo and the Art Gallery of South Australia, to the South Australian Museum, Port Adelaide Lighthouse, Glenelg Museum & Historic Tram, Gawler Musuem and the South Australian Maritime Museum, to name but a few. You might also enjoy a visit to the Bicentennial Conservatory - the largest single span conservatory in the southern hemisphere. Prefer to head back to nature? Visit some of the national parks around Adelaide, all within just a few kilometres of the city. Cleland Conservation Park offers opportunities for tourists to get up close and personal with Australian native fauna. Here you can make friends with kangaroos, wallabies, emus and waterfowl; and feel right at home amongst dingoes, reptiles, Tasmanian Devils, wombats, echidnas and koalas. At Belair National Park you will find a number of good bushwalking trails; while Morialta Conservation Park contains a number of walking trails, including some that pass by three major waterfalls and provide panoramic views over Adelaide itself. There is also a popular rock climbing area within the park. And if you want to see some rare Australian animals, a visit to Warrawong Wildlife Sanctuary is a must. This privately run wildlife sanctuary is fenced off from the outside and offers a unique opportunity to see rare native animals like Platypus, Quoll, Bettong, Potoroo, Bandicoot and Bilby. Food lovers will want to make the most out of the region’s range of mouth-watering ingredients with a visit to the Adelaide Central Markets, in the heart of the city. Here you will find growers who have travelled from across the state, selling an array of fresh produce, organic fruit and vegetables and premium meat and poultry; with everything from oysters, to olive oils, cheeses and of course – wine. If you enjoy festivals, “Mad March” is the ideal time to visit, a time when a multitude of festivals and events are held and the weather is at its finest. Among these are the Adelaide Fringe, the Clipsal 500 Car race, the Adelaide Festival, WOMADdelaide, and The Adelaide Cup horseracing carnival, as well as a variety of music festivals and other sporting events. And while you’re in Adelaide, why not take some day trips to the stunning and popular regions, like the Barossa Valley, Fleurieu Peninsula and Flinders Ranges. You will be spoilt for choice in this beautiful city and gorgeous region; and with its diverse range of stunning scenery, intriguing architecture, fun activities and friendly locals, Adelaide will leave you captivated.

Accommodation

Michelle’s Garden Apartments

Michelle’s Garden Apartments offer a versatile range of modern, stylish, fully equipped self-catering suites and apartments all with modern, quality furnishings, private bathrooms and kitchenettes or fully equipped granite kitchen area. Your choice of accommodation is limited to what best suits your family budget and needs, from the studio suite that sleep two guests, to the spacious and comfortable four bedroom apartments that sleep up to eight people and have two private bathrooms. If security is on the top of your list; the apartments have security access and secure parking facilities. After your busy day out, enjoying what Adelaide has to offer, grab a cool drink take a break and relax. The larger apartments have indoor and outdoor living areas including a courtyard or patio, the other apartments have their own patio or balcony that overlooks beautiful gardens. The apartments are within walking distance to shopping, restaurants and parks. If you are looking for good quality wines and fruits, the Adelaide Hills has some stunning wineries. Enjoy the café culture lifestyle in Adelaide’s diverse cultural mix that guarantees the food is sensational or if it is shopping you desire, Burnside Village, Adelaide Central Market or Rundle Mall are the places to visit for boutique shopping and cafes. The world-class convention facilities also make Adelaide a great place to do business. Michelle’s Garden Apartments offer boutique style modern accommodation with quality, grace and space unequalled in Adelaide and it is the perfect resting place in the perfect location for your Adelaide adventure. 356 Portrush Rd, Tusmore SA 5065 citypark@bigpond.net.au

Ph: 1800 231 444 www.michellesapartments.com.au

Miller Apartments Whether you are going away for business, or seeking a relaxing getaway, if you’re looking for boutique accommodation in the heart of Adelaide, the award winning Miller Apartments is just what you need. Located just metres from Adelaide’s renowned Rundle Mall, with friendly service and spacious, modern apartments, you are guaranteed to have a pleasurable stay. Offering one, two and three bedroom, fully self-contained apartments, the 4.5 Star Miller Apartments are designed within a historical building – its heritage dating back to the 1800s and formerly one of Australia’s finest (and South Australia’s oldest) department stores. The property was redeveloped in 2006-2007 with the original façade tastefully restored to retain its original character, including remnants of the classic old building, such as the beautiful wide stair case. If you are staying for a night, or looking for a long term solution, the fully furnished apartments have all the comforts of your own home, including separate living areas, fully equipped kitchens, balconies and air conditioning. Miller Apartments has 61 apartments, with Deluxe, Executive and Spa Suite options available; and the property’s environmentally friendly approach to accommodation ensures your apartment becomes a haven for rest and relaxation. The hotel is just a short stroll to some of Adelaide’s most notable attractions, including the Sky City Casino, Gouger Street precinct, Adelaide Convention Centre and entertainment hub West End; and is a fantastic base for exploring the greater Adelaide region. It is also an ideal location for meetings, conferences or workshops, with catering also available, and their dedicated business team will ensure your event runs smoothly. So if you’re looking for a home away from home, book Miller Apartments today. 16 Hindley Street, Adelaide SA 5000 reservations@millerapartments.com.au

Ph: 08 8410 1888 www.millerapartments.com.au

FLAVOURS OF CAMPBELLTOWN FOOD TRAIL A long history of migration of people from many different backgrounds and the changing food culture has enriched the cultural heritage of the City of Campbelltown in South Australia over many years. The Campbelltown Councilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Food Trail is an initiative of Campbelltown Council striving to support its businesses and local community by utilising its own skills, networks and opportunities. There are many tasting pleasures to enjoy when visiting these businesses, purchasing their goods and recommending them to your friends and families. The Food Trail showcases a variety of fine food and highlights the history and cultural values within the Campbelltown area. Some of the businesses on the Food Trail are large and well known while others are hidden away in the backstreets of Campbelltown and waiting for you to discover them. Most of the products used by the businesses are produced locally. There are many tasting pleasures to be enjoyed in the City of Campbelltown and you are invited to join the Food Trail and indulge in some of the foods and beverages available. Take a stroll down the streets of Campbelltown and call in for some taste sensations. To tempt the taste buds

you can choose from freshly baked biscuits, pastries and cakes, cheese or smallgoods and fresh fruit and vegetables. If you have a sweet tooth there is an abundant supply of fudge or chocolates, top this off with a freshly brewed cup of coffee or tea and you have an afternoon delight. From continental smallgoods to Indian cuisine cooked in the traditional Northern Indian style, you will have at your fingertips food to leave your taste buds tingling. If you prefer more upmarket dining then you can indulge in bistro meals and alfresco dining. Following an extensive food trail can be tiring so have an overnight stay at one of the chosen accommodation venues. The Food Trail is available to tours, and with an experienced guide, you will go home well informed about the local cuisine. To view the full details of each of the participating businesses visit the website and download the Flavours of Campbelltown Food Trail booklet.

www.foodtrail.net

South Australia MT BARKER Mount Barker is located just over 30km east of Adelaide in the Adelaide Hills, 50km from the Murray River. The town lies at the base of the Mount Barker summit, believed to be one of the most sacred Aboriginal sites in the region. Stand at the top of the summit, have a picnic lunch and a walk around one of the tracks, and take a deep breath as history delves deep into your veins and your memories. You will see a number of heritage sites on the summit, which looks over the valleys toward Adelaide in one direction, and the Murray River and Coorong in the other. Originally, the area was inhabited by the Peramangk tribe and was a rich source of food, water, firewood, animals, stone, timber and much more. Early contact with Europeans was generally peaceful and conflict was often settles through the exchange of items or harvest services. The Ngarrindjeri people, who came to Mount Barker from the east, also used the summit – which they called Womm Mu Kurta (mountain on the plain) – for ceremonial and burial sites. Today, the names of many places and properties in the area are based this Aboriginal culture, and the area is filled with artefacts, scar trees and shelter paintings – a reminder of its rich indigenous history. Imagine yourself standing at the top of this magnificent part of Australian indigenous history, taking in the 360 degree views and relishing in the knowledge that the exact spot where you’re standing is a truly significant part of Australian aboriginal history.

Womadelaide The annual world dance and music festival, WOMADelaide is held in the Botanic Park in Adelaide in March. Drawing on artists from around the world, the family-friendly festival highlights traditional music and cultural performances – alongside more popular acts. Here, you will dance the day & night away – or even the weekend – as you take in traditions from around the world, including our very own Aboriginal culture. WOMADelaide draws its performing artists from all over the world to help create better global understanding of various cultures. Derived from the WOMAD series of festivals that began in the UK in 1980, a specific emphasis is placed on traditional music and performances of various cultures although some more contemporary, popular acts are included. The festival in Adelaide was first held in 1992 and it has since become of Australia’s most popular outdoor festivals for people of all ages and backgrounds. And established to present the festival is the WOMADelaide Foundation Ltd – which has the core focus of developing art and cultural projects with indigenous artists. So you will not only enjoy yourself at the WOMADelaide festival, you will also be helping out a great cause! Families are welcome and children under 12 get in for free. The program includes performances and workshops on seven stages by a broad variety of musicians, dancers and DJs. You will also enjoy an array of street and visual artists, environmental and cooking programs, an activity area for kids and around 100 food, retail and charity stalls! Make a trip out of it and visit the WOMADelaide Festival from March 8 to March 11, 2013.

Indigenous Experiences

Yullu Wirru

One can’t imagine visiting a place in Australia with a history that spans millions of years, without a cultural experience through local Aboriginal tribes. And the Flinders Ranges, the largest mountain range in South Australia, doesn’t disappoint. The Yullu Wirru Aboriginal Cultural Experience is located in a stunning bush setting called Ticklebelly Hill in the Pichi Richi Pass, near Port Augusta. It is here, at the home of the well known Pichi Richi Railway operating operates between Quorn and Port Augusta, that you will experience an evening of traditional Aboriginal story-telling, music and dance. Your hosts, the Adnyamathanha guides, will capture moments throughout history as you feast on billy tea and local foods. The Adnyamathanha people are made up of a number of tribes - the Kuyani, Wailpi, Yadliaura, Pilatapa and Pangkala - the traditional groups of the Northern Flinders Ranges and areas around Lake Torrens. Meaning “rock people”, the Adnyamathanha share a common language and culture, known as the Yura Muda. Take a bite of your freshly made damper with jam, tuck into a salad or enjoy a tasty treat as you are taken on a journey to discover how the Adnyamathanha culture has been handed down through the generations.

Camp Coorong Camp Coorong Wilderness Lodge opened in 2009. Stay in one of the beautiful cabins or grab yourself a campsite or bunkhouse atop a limestone cliff, with 180 degree views over the Coorong National Park. Just two and a half hours from Adelaide, Camp Coorong Wilderness Lodge is the perfect place to rest after enjoying a day of exploration. Take a tour with the area’s custodians, members of the Ngarrindjeri tribe, who have held onto the land for more than 6,000 years. Learn about the history of the area, and take in a lesson on bush tucker, traditional crafts and the environmental issues faced today. The Coorong (taken from the Aboriginal word karangk, meaning “narrow neck”) is well known for its archaeological sites, including a 140km narrow lagoon, a 200km beach stretching almost uninterrupted from Lacapede Bay to Encounter Bay and a vast and stunning wetland. The area is dotted with mounds of shells deposited from many years of fishing, evidence of thousands of years of Aboriginal occupation and the lodge is run by the Trevorrow family who are dedicated to preserving the culture of the Ngarrindjeri people. Spend your days here in a kayak along the shallow, salty lagoons, enjoying guided bush walks, visiting the remote beach and taking in the area’s stunning flora and fauna. Visit the sand dunes and islands or just relax, breathing in nature at its very best.

he Adelaide Hills region is a world of romance. Here, the winding road beckons you on, each corner revealing a new delight and a promise of more to come. In a matter of minutes the pace and noise of the city are forgotten, swept aside by the many charms of the Adelaide Hills. The Adelaide Hills is a region of true inspiration with its stunning scenery, amazing local produce, historic villages, pretty scenic drives, nature and wildlife on tap, as well as a range of wineries, attractions and array of regional events. Corduroy vineyards intersect with rambling forest, steep ridges yield to rolling hills. You might lose yourself in a secluded spot, or find yourself in a bustling country market. In the Adelaide Hills you can have a lofty affair with artists, musicians, architects and dreamers; and be captivated by the rhythm of elevated living. Galleries abound, from the immense cultural legacy of Sir Hans Heysen’s home, The Cedars, to grass-roots community spaces. Winemakers take inspiration from the landscape, producing cool-climate wines with soul and a sense of place. There are around 50 cellar doors spread across the Adelaide Hills, from tiny solo acts to slick, contemporary venues, they can be found on windswept ridges, in hidden valleys and in charming main streets. Discover the romance of the ‘old’ and the excitement of the ’new’ with retail therapy in Hills towns and villages. The bustle at village shops and cafes couldn’t be more different from your normal routine. Grab the perfect purchase - a book, an antique or that special gift that you might just want to keep for yourself. Cheese and chocolate, beer and cider, even bread and jam are made the old-fashioned way – with hands and heart. You can satisfy your appetite in a country pub or take a gourmet approach in a sophisticated restaurant. You’ll find yourself smitten - a frisson of bubbles, a sip of wine, a sup of cider or a slurp of ale; we will make your senses sing. Sample the best local produce from the farm gate or farmers market or taste some fine food from restaurants and cafes. Taste romance and have lunch in the landscape – bright and fresh in spring, lazy and long in summer, colourful and glorious in autumn, snug and warm in winter. Pack a picnic from local produce, grab a bottle of something new and let the road take you through the corduroy landscape to an outdoor room with a view. There are so many ways to get to know the Adelaide Hills more intimately. Take the plunge on a precipitous mountain bike track, cuddle a koala or evoke childhood memories. Ramble along the pathways or climb the summits. Hear

the dawn chorus in a citrus green landscape as the sun rises over the hills and listen to evensong as the sun sets over the sea. Play a round on a picturesque golf course or abseil down a rocky escarpment. Get a taste of farm life, get up close to wildlife, or just put your feet up and enjoy the good life. Follow the dreams and passions of early farmers, gardeners and orchardists which are captured in the landscape of the Hills. Explore on two wheels or four, rattle along in a steam train, or even arrive in style in a vintage warplane. Stroll hand-in-hand along a street lined with historic buildings, hike single-file through rugged bushland, or wander through one of the Hills’ renowned gardens. Sometimes it’s best to slow down and take it all in. Time your visit right and you could enjoy a country show, a farmers’ market, an art exhibition, or a celebration of the region’s food and wine. Major events to get your pulse racing include the Tour Down Under and one of the world’s great picnic race meetings, the Oakbank Easter Carnival. Or you can stimulate your mind at the Hoot! Adelaide Hills Jazz Festival or the biennial Adelaide Hills International Sculpture Symposium. Adelaide Hills is so close to Adelaide that you can visit for a day. Or better still, stay a while – wake up in a cosy cottage, a modern spa suite, a historic mansion, a hand-built gothic castle… Whether you lose yourself or find yourself, revel in the romance of an Adelaide Hills affair.

Image courtesy of Tourism SA

Adelaide Hills

With views that roll with the seasons and a gentle natural landscape, your visit to Adelaide Hills will be like falling in love for the first time. No matter what the season, the Hills are an ideal holiday destination – whether you are going for a week or two, or just a relaxing weekend away. The Hills are beautiful all year round and is still a largely undiscovered treasure, full of twisting and turning roads past sensational vistas, leafy trees, vineyards and quaint villages. There are a number of walking and cyclist trails, more than 30 cellar doors, quality dining and an abundance of fresh local produce markets, great shopping and accommodation to suit all tastes – from luxury hotels to bed and breakfasts. In the northern end of the Hills, some of the must see attractions include the Gorge Wildlife Park at Cudlee Creek, The Giant Rocking Horse & Toy Factory, Guneracha, and The National Motor Museum in Birdwood. The centre includes Cleland Wildlife Park, Warrawong Sanctuary and Laratinga Wetlands, while in the south you will find attractions like Jupiter Creek Gold Diggings, Callington’s Mining History. Take a day trip from Adelaide, or spend a few days exploring this stunning region. Just outside the city, stop off at the Mount Lofty Summit which provides visitors with spectacular views of the city, the plains and the surrounding areas. Every year, more than 350,000 people visit the peak, which rises 710 metres above sea level. You can drive or walk to the top where you will find a visitor information centre, gift shop and restaurant. From here, follow the Heysen Trail, see the gushing waterfalls of Waterfall Gully or wander through the native bushland to Cleland National Park. Discover the romance of the ‘old’ and the excitement of the ’new’ in the towns and villages of the region. Hahndorf is one of the most

Image courtesy of Tourism SA

The Hills Are Alive

popular destinations and one of the area’s most famous towns, known as Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement. With an array of craft and souvenir shops and galleries, Hahndorf is well worth the visit. Smallgoods outlets and German bakeries line the street, visit the historic pub for a fantastic traditional German meal, pick your own strawberries at Beerenberg Strawberry Farm or visit the former home and studio of Sir Hans Heysen. Founded in 1888, Stirling is one of the prettiest towns you will see in the Adelaide Hills, with colourful tree lined streets and affluent architecture. It became popular with Adelaide’s wealthy residents who built summer houses to escape the heat of the plains and today, you will still find many of these homes (some of which have even been converted into bed and breakfasts you enjoy). Mount Barker is known for its picturesque countryside and is the largest town in the Adelaide Hills region. Traditionally a farming area, Mount Barker is located on the plains surrounding the Mount Barker Summit. Popular with tourists and locals alike is the Linear Trail, which has fantastic scenery with paths, bridges and a variety of nature along the way. Joggers, walkers and cyclists can take the trail which starts at Keith Stephenson Park and continues to the Laratinga Wetlands, which gives the trail a total length of about 3 kilometres. Woodside is another popular travel destination in the Adelaide Hills - home to Heritage Park. Heritage Park includes the popular Melbas Chocolate Factory, The Mill Shop of Onkaparinga, Country Cafe, Leather Workshop and Woodside Cheese Wrights. The chocolate factory was opened around 20 years ago and is a working factory with guided tours. In the town itself, pubs, antique shops, a range of accommodation and cafes provide everything you need to make your stay enjoyable. A country market is held on the third Sunday of each month. You won’t want to miss it. Less than 20 minutes from Adelaide lies the village of Bridgewater, known for the Bridgewater Mill and the former end of the AdelaideBridgewater railway line, which was closed in 1987. The village was first settled in 1840 with an inn built to service travellers crossing Cox Creek. The Mill was built in the 1850s by John Dunn, who also built a number of other flour mills throughout the State, and today it houses a restaurant and cellar door for a local winery. It doesn’t matter where you go in the Adelaide Hills region you are bound to find an abundance of history and some unique and wonderful experiences and souvenirs to take away with you.

Adelaide Hills If you’re taking a day trip or a long holiday to the Adelaide Hills region, the Adelaide Hills Visitor Information Centre and Accommodation and Tour Booking Service will provide you with everything you need, and more, to ensure your stay is comfortable and exciting. Based in the famous German village of Hahndorf, the centre provides a range of services including accommodation bookings, tour bookings, tourism information for South Australia, local tourism and business information and local and regional maps. Step into a world of stunning scenery, amazing local produce, historic villages and some refreshing scenic drives; visit local wineries and attractions; and find out what events are happening in the region when you’re there. It won’t matter how long you stay, as long as you make the most of your visit.

the main street. Mount Barker is a thriving residential, commercial and service centre of excellence where you will find a state of the art cinema complex, linear trails, recreation parks, sporting complexes, restaurants, cafes and all the services you may need.

One of the prettiest towns in the Adelaide Hills, Stirling became popular with Adelaide’s wealthy residents in the 1800s, who built summer houses to escape the heat of the plains in the late nineteenth century. Within a few minute’s drive from the heart of Stirling and you can visit Crafers, Aldgate, Bridgewater, Piccadilly, Belair The Adelaide Hills region covers National Park, Cleland Wildlife Park a large area with a range of or Mt Lofty Summit. experiences to suit all tastes. If you are visiting with your family, a loved The Central Adelaide Hills covers one, or friends, you are sure to find everything from Lobethal to Mount something you love. Barker, and Belair to Kanmantoo, and includes the Onkaparinga (Verdun, Balhannah, The Adelaide Hills region has five Valley distinct areas, Hahndorf and Mount Oakbank, Woodside, Charleston) Barker, Stirling and Surrounds, The along with Stirling and Hahndorf as Central Adelaide Hills, The Northern major tourism experiences. Adelaide Hills, and The Southern Adelaide Hills. It doesn’t matter The Northern Adelaide Hills where you visit, every province includes Inglewood to Tungkillo has its own beauty all year round. and Kersbrook to Lobethal, with Autumn in particular is growing in attractions including Gorge Wildlife popularity. Park – Cudlee Creek, The National Motor Museum and an abundance Hahndorf and Mount Barker are of wineries. located just 7 kilometers apart, yet offer the visitor a world of The Southern area covers Jupiter difference in choice. Hahndorf Creek to Callington and Mount is a feast for the senses, with its Barker to Prospect Hill; with not German architecture, charming to be missed attractions such shopping experiences, and mix as Jupiter Creek Gold Diggings, of fine dining, chic businesses Prospect Hill Museum, Callington’s and accommodation choices, all Mining History and the fabulous blended between the 100 year townships of Echunga, Meadows, old elm and plane trees which line and Macclesfield.

While you’re at the Visitor Information Centre, be sure to ask about the different drives and walks you can take through the region, and grab yourself some maps. Trails include Hahndorf and the Old Princes Highway, Callington Kanmantoo Heritage Mining Trail, Meadows Heritage Walk, Battunga Country Drives Walks and Cycle Trails, Mount Torrens Heritage Trail and The Cherry Map, where you can even pick your own cherries! Other attractions you might want to ask about include Beerenberg Strawberry Farm, Laratinga Wetlands, Mt Lofty Botanic Gardens, the Big Rocking Horse & Toy Factory, Melbas Chocolate Factory & Heritage Village, Fairyland Village, Hahndorf Farm Barn, Lobethal Bierhaus, Hahndorf Academy, Gulf Brewery and Grumpy’s Brewhaus. The Adelaide Hills is also Australia’s most vibrant cool climate wine region and has more than 90 wine labels and 48 cellar doors, offering everything from wine tasting and sales to winery tours, food and wine matching, master classes and comparative tastings. The Adelaide Hills Visitor Information Centre (VIC) is an Accredited VIC. Policies and procedures have been established, measured against National Standards and audited, to ensure they provide the best possible service to you. The Visitor Information Centre is open from 9am to 5pm weekdays and 10am to 4pm on weekends and public holidays. The Centre is closed on Christmas Day and Good Friday. Drop in and talk to the friendly staff and volunteers to get the latest information for your next visit. 68 Main Street, Hahndorf SA 5245 Ph: 08 8388 1185 vic@adelaidehillsinfo.asn.au www.adelaidehills.org.au

Fall in love all over again... Be captivated by the seasons of the Adelaide Hills

Adelaide Hills

The Adelaide Hills have views that roll with the seasons and a natural landscape of a gentler kind. Like love for the first time. Spring: The Hills will put a spring in your step â&#x20AC;˘ Summer: The Hills will bowl you over Autumn: The Hills will sweep you off your feet â&#x20AC;˘ Winter: The Hills will warm the cockles of your heart. 1800 353 323 or 08 8388 1185 | vic@adelaidehillsinfo.asn.au | www.adelaidehills.org.au

Adelaide Hills Hahndorf Oak Tree Cottages Nestled in the beautiful Adelaide Hills village of Hahndorf, Oak Tree Cottages provide the perfect place to stay on your next getaway. Your hosts Greg and Sue Brown will ensure your stay is as comfortable as you require, and with the choice of six wonderfully decorated brand new cottages, you will be spoilt. With deluxe accommodation for couples in a quiet and relaxed atmosphere, Oak Tree Cottages also offer all the comforts required for a laid back stay – with a queen bed in a separate bedroom, ensuite, secure parking, BBQ facilities, reverse cycle air conditioning, laundry facilities, free wi-fi, microwave, fridge and tea and coffee making facilities. Ideally located so you can explore the region with ease, Oak Tree Cottages are just 20 minutes from Adelaide and within easy access of cafes, restaurants, wineries and galleries. Hahndorf itself has a history dating back to the 1800s and is Australia’s oldest surviving German Settlement. Stepping into the town is like stepping back in time, so a visit to the Hahndorf Clocks & Collectables shop is also a must. Collectables include an extensive range of Cuckoo Clocks, Grandfather clocks, mantle clocks, and the store also offers an on-site clock repair service. There is also a range of German and Australian souvenirs, including beer steins, jewellery and you can even grab yourself some local fudge, made on the premises! Oak Tree Cottages are the ideal modern, comfortable choice for your accommodation next time you visit the Adelaide Hills. 47 Main St, Hahndorf SA 5245 info@oaktreecottages.com.au

Ph: 08 7070 0073 www.oaktreecottages.com.au

Adelaide Hills Country Cottages Adelaide Hills Country Cottages value the importance of a quality experience and that’s why they’ve received the 2012 South Australian Tourism Award Winner, Australian Tourism Awards three times, South Australia Tourism Awards nine times and have been inducted into the South Australian Tourism Hall Of Fame the epitome of the tourism award industry. If you are looking for first class self contained Bed & Breakfast accommodation for a romantic escape, Adelaide Hills Country Cottages have a variety of packages to satisfy your every need. You will feel like you are nestled in a romantic corner of English Countryside when you stay at Apple Tree Cottage, beautifully restored and decorated to preserve its heritage. For a genuine Australian experience, you can’t go past the Gum Tree Cottage nestled amongst gum trees. Lavender Fields offers you luxurious French Country Style accommodation nestled in a romantic lavender filled garden. You may well think you are in the exotic Mediterranean in their Country Style Villa beside a lemon grove and overlooking vines and spectacular views of the valley. For a quiet and restful escape, The Nest compliments its peaceful environment and creates the perfect setting for precious time out, sink into the deluxe double spa bath and enjoy the wonderful expansive views to Mt. Lofty. Mandy and Steve Adcock look forward to welcoming you to their Adelaide Hills Country Cottages. With each cottage located in its own romantic secluded and peaceful setting, enjoy the best of what the Adelaide Hills has to offer in the best accommodation near Hahndorf! 229 Oakwood Road, Balhannah SA 5242 relax@ahcc.com.au

Ph: 08 8388 4193 www.ahcc.com.au

Accommodation

Gr and Mercure Mount Lofty Just a short 15-minute drive from Adelaide’s CBD you will find Mount Lofty House, a unique country manor house offering boutique luxury accommodation and fine dining in the spectacular Adelaide Hills. A selection of comfortable well-equipped guestrooms allows you to enjoy the ambience of the house and its surroundings and from many of the guestrooms you can view the impressive Piccadilly Valley from your balcony. Mount Lofty House is ideal for your next conference retreat, close to the heart of the City it is far enough to provide you with space and tranquillity. Whether it is an exclusive booking for all accommodation and conference facilities or a handful of rooms and an executive boardroom meeting, Mount Lofty House will take care of your every need for conferences, meetings and retreats to achieve your event objectives. Winner of multiple awards for excellence, Mount Lofty House also provides a number of unique function venues for a variety of occasions from formal degustation style dinners with spectacular views, to relaxed barbeques in the gardens. Piccadilly Restaurant is the epitome of Adelaide fine dining with an enviable reputation for great food and wine. Enjoy breakfast in the warmth of the morning sun, or an evening meal as you watch the hills disappear into a South Australian sunset. Your wedding day is one of the most exciting days of your life and Mount Lofty House have a well-earned reputation for wedding excellence. Whatever the occasion Mount Lofty House offers everything you need. 74 Mt Lofty Summit Rd, Crafers SA 5152 relax@mtloftyhouse.com.au

Ph: 08 8339 6777 www.mtloftyhouse.com.au/adelaide-meetings.html

Perimoor Heading to Adelaide Hills and want to ensure you have the perfect accommodation – something comfortable, with friendly hosts in a stunning setting? Perimoor Bed & Breakfast in Littlehampton is exactly what you need. Perimoor began as a dream. And after Matthew Moores and Peter Peridis began creating the property in 2000, starting with the planting of some of the worlds’ rarest and most endangered plant species over 8.5 acres, the dream fast became a reality. Matt and Pete are pleased to be able to share this with you. The view from Perimoor is second to none with clear 360 degree views of the rolling hills and a great view of Mount Barker Summit. Perimoor is the perfect retreat for those who wish to be pampered, sit back and enjoy the views or sight-see throughout the Adelaide Hills, with easy access to Hahndorf, the Barossa Valley, McLaren Vale, Mt Barker and the Murray River, to name just a few. Perimoor is only 30 minutes from the Adelaide CBD and 45 minutes to the Airport. When you stay at Perimoor, not only are you guaranteed friendly hosting, but you will also receive top quality luxury amenities. Choose from 3 large bedrooms (2 with ensuites, 1 with separate bathroom) and enjoy your own private balcony. Perimoor is also pet friendly. Holding a special event? Whether it’s a birthday, wedding, funeral, corporate event or just a group weekend away, enjoy all the benefits of catering with home cooked meals. No matter what the occasion, Perimoor will leave you with wonderful, happy memories that you will want to experience again and again and again. Lot 113/123 Cleggett Rd, Littlehampton SA 5250 perimoor@sctelco.net.au

Ph: 0403 500 312 perimoor@sctelco.net.au

Adelaide Hills Amadio Nestled in the beautiful Adelaide Hills, lies a five star winery with a history that dates back almost 80 years. Amadio Wines has a unique atmosphere and is set in an ideal location. The Adelaide Hills region is well known for its distinctive premium wines, viticulture and stunning scenery and the vineyard has passed through three generations and is recognised both nationally and internationally. Started by Giovanni Amadio in 1936, it is now run by third generation winemaker Danniel Amadio, who has substantially expanded the AMADIO brand by sourcing premium fruit from his family’s Kersbrook vineyards while maintaining ‘hands on’ production standards and honouring family custom. Amadio specialises in a variety of wines, from red, white and sparkling wines to alternative and fortified styles. The wines embrace the best fruit flavours and ‘terra’ characteristics of each regional varietal, producing wines of great depth and natural character. Popular brands include Dog Leg, Red Shed, MISURA, Vino di Famiglia, Amadio Premium and Amadio Reserve. Amadio Wines’ unique atmosphere and ideal location of its “Cellar Door in the Suburbs” at 461 Payneham Road, Felixstow makes it a superb venue for any form of event or day of wine tasting. Whether it be a breakfast, product launch, or a personal wine experience dinner with the wine maker himself, Amadio Wines is the place to do it. Amadio Wines prides itself of its consistent standard of premium quality winemaking, vintage after vintage. Visit today to find out what makes Amadio so popular. The cellar door is open from Wednesday to Saturday, 10am til 5.30pm. Indulge, and enjoy premium wines with wonderful food and friends. Salute`! 461 Payneham Rd, Felixstow SA 5070 sales@amadiowines.com

Ph: 08 8365 5988 www.amadiowines.com

Norton Summit Sit back and relax in the Adelaide Hills with a great glass of wine at Norton Summit Vineyards. The 2.5 hectare family boutique wine making business has a passion for quality wines, growing and making premium cool climate pinot noir, chardonnay and sparkling wine. Just 5 kilometres north of Mt Lofty, the setting and lifestyle of the Hills creates the ideal location for winemaking, with the region known for premium wines. The estate sits at 500 metres above sea level and there are five small vine blocks each having its own microclimate, orientation and soil type (terroir). Grapes from each block are kept separate with the wines individually made. Up to 500 cases are made every year and vertical shoot positioning and cane thinning resulting in low yields and elegant and concentrated wines, We use contemporary winemaking methods but retain the tradition of hand picking and hand plunging in small batches using a mix of old and new oak, free run juice and a range of whole bunch mixes to give the wine longevity. This results in wines needing up to four years for complete development and with our current new release the 2009. Visit Norton Summit Vineyards and taste some of these amazing wines for yourself. The tasting and functions studio is nestled between the vineyards and eucalypt bushland, with views down the Nicholls Road Valley. The cellar door is open by appointment but we are not a 10 minute ‘kick the tyres’ kind of place, so stay a while and enjoy talking about our wines with the winemaker as wine is best imbibed with food! 59 Nicholls Road, Norton Summit SA 5136 kenn@nortonsummitvineyards.com

Ph: 08 8390 1829 www.nortonsummitvineyards.com

Kersbrook Hill

Wines

If you’re after quality, imagination and style, Kersbrook Hill Winery will not disappoint. A producer of boutique wines and cider of the highest possible quality, Kersbrook Hill Wines provide both the connoisseur and the everyday drinker an experience to remember. Located in the small town of Kersbrook, in the Adelaide Hills, Kersbrook Hill Wines is a family winery that was started by Paul Clark some 16 years ago. It is a 5 Star winery (Halliday) which specialises in single vineyard wines of real quality and varietal flavour. The winery is situated in an old (mostly under-utilised) cold store, which had previously been used for storing apples and pears.

The Kersbrook Hill Wines Cellar Door is located conveniently on the main road to Kersbrook – right next to the winery. Pre-booked tours are run for small groups, taking you through the old building, giving you a taste straight from the barrels, teaching you about the various aspects of wine making and generally solving the world’s problems – with wine or cider, of course. Kersbrook also make basket pressed cider You are guaranteed that a visit to Kersbrook Hill Winery will always be interesting! The owners and staff have the attitude that “if you want to buy wine, you can go to a wine store, but if you want to EXPERIENCE wine, to learn about it, talk to interesting people and taste of the best wine in the Adelaide Hills, then you should visit us”. The winery is open 7 days from 9.30am-5.30pm (later on Fridays for a special evening with pizza, food and drink specials, and good times). 1498 South Para Rd, Kersbrook SA 5231 info@kersbrookhill.com.au

Ph: 08 8389 3301 www.kersbrookhill.com.au

Nepenthe Launched in 1994 by the Tweddell family, Nepenthe focuses on producing premium wines from varieties that thrive in Australia’s premier cool climate wine region, the Adelaide Hills. Patriarch Ed Tweddell unearthed the name ‘Nepenthe’ from the pages of Homer’s epic, The Odyssey, where ‘Nepenthe’ is described as an ancient elixir blended to banish grief and sweep away sorrow. Specialising in cool climate viticulture, Nepenthe focuses on traditional varieties such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Shiraz as well as newer, emerging styles including Tempranillo and Viognier. Only 30 minutes from Adelaide, the Cellar Door offers an excellent tasting experience of award winning wines including wines from its Pinnacle range; representing the very best of the Adelaide Hills. The Cellar Door is open daily from 10am til 4pm and offers a fantastic VIP program with a range of benefits, including six bottle tasting packs delivered three times a year, VIP prices, first access to new vintage and age release wines, and much more. You can also enjoy a regional platter, served for lunch daily, while taking in breathtaking views from the patio and lawn areas. Winner of numerous awards in Australia and overseas, the success of Nepenthe wines is evident in the marketplace with the winery selling nationally and exporting to the United Kingdom, USA, Japan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Canada, Switzerland, Holland, Sweden, Denmark and Croatia. To keep up with demand, Nepenthe now has four vineyards in the region, totalling almost 150 hectares. Climactically the region is renowned as one of Australia’s best for wine making so why not take the opportunity to taste and purchase some premium wines at the Nepenthe Cellar Door. Jones Rd, Balhannah SA 5245 cellardoor@nepenthe.com.au

Ph: 08 8562 8373 www.nepenthe.com.au

ipping on an award winning wines and eating locally made delicacies, while looking out over the most astounding hills and valleys, watching the sunrise and set in the company of the ones you love. Welcome to the Barossa Valley.

A romantic haven, the Barossa Valley is also a popular destination for families and friends, with an abundance of activities and sights to see. If you love to indulge, this is the place to be. Good wines, great food and the most stunning scenery this country has to offer. The Barossa Valley’s history dates back to the 19th Century, and the valley derives its name from the Barossa Ranges, named in 1837. It was with the arrival of early German settler Johannes Menge in 1839 that the potential for wineries was established and the district has never looked back. It is one of the oldest wine regions in Australia. Evidence of the original German settlers can still be found today through the sloping roofs of older building and the local cuisine - you will find no lack of Bratwurst, Mettwurst and heavy cream cakes throughout the region. Barossa Valley was formed by the North Para River and it is the spectacular setting for three distinct towns. Tanunda’s history dates back to the 1840s and the German influences here are long standing; Angaston on the other hand is an English town that was originally settled predominantly by Cornish miners; and Nuriootpa provides a mix of German and English cultures. Take a drive through the region and unlock some of the region’s historical secrets along the Tanundra or Barossa heritage trails; make your way towards Seppeltsfield Road where you will find a range of activities, wineries, dining and accommodation; wind your way through the valley on a scenic drive like no other; or take a momentous walk through historic towns like Bethany and Angaston. And be sure you don’t leave without following the winemaker trail where you will be tempted by the many wineries and restaurants and discover a buffet of locally produced food and wine. The Barossa Valley is the ultimate destination to relax and unwind, away from busy city streets or a hectic farm life. Whatever your flavour, you will find it at Barossa Valley.

Image courtesy of Dragan Radocaj Photography

Barossa Food, wine & cultural experiences

The Perfect Storm

Sitting on the veranda of a good bed and breakfast, watching over the colour-filled land to the horizon, a dark storm lighting up the sky after a hot summer’s day – you are in one of the most perfect places on earth, a display of beauty that is second to none. The Barossa Valley offers views like this, and so much more. Barossa Valley is a stunning region of small historical towns and villages, but it is the natural beauty of the region that enhances its popularity to make it the ideal holiday destination. Vineyards, lavender fields, national parks and mountain ranges are the forefront of the region. There are more than 13,000 hectares of vineyards planted in Barossa, with the area being home to some of the oldest continuously producing vineyards in the world. The tidy vineyards are an amazing sight, from any angle. For a truly unique experience you might like to explore the area in a vintage car, or hire a bicycle and take a ride along the vineyards. This will not only give you the chance to take in your surroundings in the best way possible, but you will also have the freedom to stop in to wineries for some wine tasting along the way. You might choose to watch the sunrise or sunset over the valley, or take a picnic for lunch and enjoy the fresh midday air. The region is surrounded by mountains, known as the Barossa Ranges. They are part of a much larger range, the Mount Lofty Ranges which stretch over 300 kilometres north from Fleurieu Peninsula, and sit at the southern end of this vast area. They are predominantly featured on the eastern side of the valley and the ranges are the source for the North Para River and Jacob’s Creek. The ranges not only provide a striking backdrop to your holiday, they are also the ideal habitat for an array of flora and fauna which will have your camera working overtime. The mountainsides are forests of shrubs, herbs and endemic orchids, which have found a place to grow at the base of eucalyptus trees and Golden Wattle acacias. The ranges are home to a number of animals, including Koalas, Western Grey Kangaroos, Tammar Wallaby, echidnas and bandicoots. Here you might also catch a glimpse of the Southern Emu-wren and make sure you keep an eye out for the endangered Adelaide Pigmy Blue-tongue skink. The Kaiser Stuhl Conservation Park is part of the ranges and is the perfect spot for bushwalkers, with two walking trails. The

trails will take you on a journey through open grasses, low forest, rocky outcrops and past flowing creeks and the park provides visitors with unprecedented views of both the ranges and the valley. At sunrise and sunset, the animals come out to play and if you’re lucky you might catch a glimpse of some kangaroos and wallabies, or the occasional echidna or possum, making their journey through the park. The Wallowa Hike will take you past rock formations and to the scenic lookout, while the Stringybark Loop will take you through the bushland itself. Between Tanundra and Angaston you will find another popular lookout which provides amazing views of the valley’s vineyards, hills and farms. Mengler’s Hill was named after an early vine grower in the region and features a sculpture park, with local sculptures using the local marble and black granite to create the designs, at the base of the lookout. You can drive, walk or cycle to the top. If you’re after a something a little different, the Heysen Trail is popular for long distance walkers. It is the longest walking trail in South Australia and runs from Parachilna Gorge in the Flinders Ranges, through the valley, to Cape Jervis on the Fleurieu Peninsula – a total of around 1,200 kilometres. Though some parts of the trail are closed from December to April due to bushfire risk, you might choose to walk just one, or a few sections of the track; or take the entire track a day or two at a time. The trail through the Barossa offers a unique natural experience for those who want to challenge themselves. Another fantastic way to see the natural beauty of the Barossa Valley is from the air. Float over the region in a hot air balloon flight at dawn, or enjoy a helicopter joy flight, to appreciate the region with a bird’s eye view. However you decide to explore the region, if you appreciate the special moments that nature provides, the picturesque Barossa Valley is an experience you will talk about for many years.

Image courtesy of Dragan Radocaj Photography

Barossa

Barossa Magic

The backbone of South Australia can be found in the historical Barossa Valley. The region is located just sixty kilometres outside Adelaide’s CBD and is home to some of the finest wineries, cuisine and scenic drives in the country. Barossa Valley is known as one of the best wine producing regions in Australia. Here you will find tranquil townships and wineries that are alive with colourful wildlife and culinary decadence. The unforgettable welcoming people of Barossa embrace you with a smile and are all too happy to show you what their exciting region has to offer. History, culture, wine, food, family and friends – magic is what the Barossa Valley is all about. Barossa Valley is a region of variety where your experience is only limited to your imagination. If you really want to get to the heart of the Barossa, the township of Tanunda is a must. Tanunda was born from its German Lutheran Heritage and has still kept its historical appeal. This beautiful district is dotted with rustic German buildings and surrounded by vineyards that are as old as the town itself. Here in Tanunda you can experience the bold German spirit and flavours enveloped in a Mediterranean-style climate that is the toast of the valley. Fifteen minutes drive North-East from Tanunda is a place where you will discover that a 100-year-old wine has been released every year since 1978. After a tour and some wine tasting backtrack and head north and end up in the town of Nuriootpa, Barossa’s largest township. Nuriootpa is an Aboriginal word meaning “meeting place” and is home to some very famous wineries. Nuriootpa is not just all about wine tasting though and while you’re here be sure to take a look around town to see grape vines are growing on the side of some of the old buildings. Head down south to Gawler - the first country town in South Australia and where the television show, McLeod’s Daughters was filmed. Gawler is a vibrant town and there are plenty of places to eat including a range of bistros, cafe’s and hotels. Gawler’s accommodation options range from bed and breakfasts to quaint little heritage cottages, and there is plenty to see and do here, from shopping to picnicking, walking and tennis. Between Gawler and Tanunda lies the township of Lyndoch. With a population of around 1,500 people, Lyndoch is one of the oldest towns in South Australia. You might like to visit Lyndoch for handcrafted arts and

crafts, a trip to a lavender farm or to take a walk through an array of buildings from the mid-1800’s. If you’re into walking trails and local birdlife the nearby Sandy Creek Park is the place to go. Meander among the sand dunes, grey kangaroos and emu’s and stay till dusk to watch the echidnas emerge from their hiding spots. Another town worth visiting in Barossa Valley is Kapunda. Discovered in 1842 Kapunda is considered the birthplace of copper mining and the first town in Australia to have an open cut mine. This town is famous for being the home of Sir Sydney Kidman, a major cattle pastoralist who owned a whopping 68 properties. Visit the open pit mine and the soldier’s memorial hall and don’t forget to stop to enjoy a cream puff at a local bakery too. If you enjoy photography or just want to add to your collection, Kapunda is the perfect place to take some incredible snapshots. Expansive farms, rugged hills, and blue skies are included in the backdrop of Kapunda. For a unique Barossa experience head to Williamstown on the Southern Gateway of the Valley. Williamstown is a great place for cycling and walking. Be sure to visit the world-famous Whispering Wall. The Whispering Wall is the retaining wall of the Barossa Reservoir. This place draws thousands of tourists annually because of its acoustic properties. Stand at one end and whisper sweet nothings to your loved one standing at the other end. You will be able to hear each other clearly. Barossa Valley is abundant with magic. Green pastures, fine food and wine and fertile valleys. Once you arrive here and take a look around it is easy to see why Barossa Valley was voted the Travellers Choice 2012 winner of top Wine Destinations in Australia. Immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Barossa Valley and learn more about this beautiful country we call Australia. From warm-hearted locals, wineries, wildlife and delicacies, Barossa Valley is a region not to be forgotten.

Image courtesy of Dragan Radocaj Photography

Barossa

Barossa Seppeltsfield Vineyard Cottage For the ultimate indulgence in pure luxury Barossa accommodation, welcome to Seppeltsfield Vineyard Cottage, settled in 1852 by Christian and Louise Hemmerling from Klastawe in the Province of Posen, Prussia. The cottage has been restored of its soul as well as the building and guests who stay there can read the history and then stroll across to the winery at Seppeltsfield. A large king bed, crisp quality linen and woollen carpet underfoot, is complemented with the luxury ensuite bathroom featuring double shower, under floor heating, exclusive Molton Brown products and for that extreme indulgence relax in a deep rainwater bath with vineyard views through expansive French doors. The original pug and wood beam ceiling and 150-year-old German door locks create a welcoming ambience and sense of history. Guests are intrigued and delighted by the cellar located under the cottage lounge room and accessed via original hand hewn wooden steps discovered during renovations. The cottage also features indoor and outdoor custom-made kitchenettes equipped with quality cooking utensils and an outdoor Weber BBQ perfect for dining alfresco while enjoying the garden and sunsets. All stays at Seppeltsfield Vineyard Cottage include local gourmet produce, estate produced wine, a 45 minute Heritage Tour of Seppeltsfield Winery, cooked and continental breakfast provisions and for the romantic weekend enjoy the complimentary flowers, Barossa Decadence handmade fudge, and Seppeltsfield Wines Tokay. Seppeltsfield Vineyard Cottage offers the perfect getaway to discover why everyone talks about the Barossa Valley.

27 Gerald Roberts Rd, Seppeltsfield SA 5355 stay@seppeltsfieldvineyardcottage.com.au

Ph: 08 8563 4059 www.seppeltsfieldvineyardcottage.com.au

Mar ananga Cottages Marananga Cottages are located on the palm tree lined Seppeltsfield Road in the picturesque Barossa Valley. Surrounded by vineyards and wineries, staying at Marananga Cottages provides you with the perfect base to be able to enjoy all the beautiful Barossa has to offer. Eileen’s Cottage is the ideal romantic retreat for a couple. This spacious bluestone settler style cottage features huge old beams and an inviting open stone fireplace to keep you warm on those cold winter nights. Adding to the comfort for guests are the quality country character furnishings and the queen size mahogany four poster bed, where you are sure to get a good night’s rest in a comfortable and relaxing setting. The Evelyn Country Suite entrance is sheltered under a vine draped bullnose verandah and with the gorgeous garden you are guaranteed tranquil privacy for your stay. With its old timber, exposed red bricks, iron ceilings, queen size bed and elegant claw foot bath this suite reflects a style and comfort that is second to none. Delicious cooked breakfasts are also served in the suite. The Eileen’s Cottage 2 night package offers a cooked breakfast on the first morning with provisions provided for the second day. This package is only available when you book direct with Marananga Cottages. Seppeltsfield Rd, Marananga SA 5355

Ph: 08 8562 3277 www.maranangacottages.com.au

Accommodation

The Louise

Imagine waking up to beautiful views overlooking tranquil vineyards as you relax in your private haven away from the bustle and stress of everyday life. It can all be yours at The Louise situated in the heart of the Barossa Valley wine country. The Louise offers absolute luxury and inspired design with private spaces, generous ensuites and breathtaking vineyard views. Enjoy glorious sunsets from your private terrace, and bathe in your very own outdoor private rainshower. A highlight of every suite is the private outdoor spaces provided by a spacious gated courtyard and a secluded rear terrace with uninterrupted vistas of the shape-shifting vineyards. Your luxurious private spa suite beckons. Settle in and unwind. Toast a stunning red-hued sunset, dine in co-located Appellation - one of Australia’s best restaurants, savour the world’s most celebrated wines, shower under star-lit Southern skies, and awaken restored to a new day. A nearby winery gives an opportunity to blend your own wine and have it paired to a custom designed dish by Appellation chefs’ making your experience more personal. The Louise offers exclusive visits to cellars that are not open to the public, intimate tasting of wines and chats with the winemakers are sure to give something out of the ordinary. For a perfect getaway in the stunning Barossa Valley, just one hour from Adelaide, The Louise offers you a luxurious experience to remember. Seppeltsfield Rd, Marananga SA 5355 stay@thelouise.com.au

Ph: 08 8562 2722 www.thelouise.com.au

Stonewell Cottages and Vineyards Experience the essence of vineyard life in the Barossa at Stonewell Cottages and Vineyards, a boutique waterfront retreat set on an expansive 103 acre private vineyard estate. Enjoy peace, privacy, seclusion and space in stylish bed and breakfast accommodation. Just a short drive from Tanunda, this is a tranquil world away from stress and hectic schedules, the ideal place to escape and rejuvenate. The two retreats and two cottages, surrounded by vineyard and cottage gardens, all with lake views, feature cosy wood fires, candlelit spa baths and stylish kitchens stocked with fresh local breakfast produce. Feed the friendly ducks, row the boats, throw in a fishing line or yabbie net, enjoy a picnic on the lawns, take a bike ride or de-stress with an in-room massage. Dine alfresco in your private garden courtyard with a gourmet regional food platter. Sip a wine made from the surrounding vines as you watch the sunset over the water. At Stonewell, guests can experience real life on a Barossa vineyard and take a guided walk through the vineyard with the vigneron. Learn first hand about what happens in the vineyard seasonally and what it takes to grow the grapes that make your favourite wine. The best of the Barossa is on your doorstep - Seppeltsfield Road’s cellar doors, Maggie Beer’s Farm Shop, Appellation and Hentley Farm restaurants are all close by, awaiting your discovery. Visit the website to find out about the newly released ‘Barossa Flavours’ package and other great special deals and offers. Stonewell Rd, Stone Well SA 5352 relax@stonewellcottages.com.au

Ph: 0417 848 977 www.stonewellcottages.com.au

Barossa

Cnr Gerald Roberts Rd & Jenke Rd,

Nuriootpa Rd,

fig22 at The Wheatsheaf Inn

Seppeltsfield SA

Angaston SA

2 Sunnydale Ave, Gawler SA

Phone 08 8562 8427

Phone 08 8564 2488

Phone 08 8523 5588

www.hentleyfarm.com.au

www.vintners.com.au

www.fig22.com.au

Hentley Farm Restaurant

Vintners Bar & Grill

fig22

Set among the rolling hills on the banks of Greenock Creek at Seppeltsfield, Hentley Farm is a boutique, vineyard that produces distinctive wines reflective of the exceptional site and seasonal cuisine emphasising on farm and local produce. As a fantastic end to a day of touring the winery, it’s time to escape and enjoy a great dining experience in the Hentley Farm’s intimate and elegantly restored stables set amongst the vines, and take a journey of pleasure, discovery and intrigue. The Discovery menu will guarantee a personal journey through different flavours, concepts, ingredients and pairings. The du Jour menu is a daily offering of four dishes selected by the chefs and provides the perfect option for those who don’t have the luxury of a long lunch. For a culinary experience with an excellent bottle of your favourite wine, spend some time at Hentley Farm, you won’t be disappointed.

Vintners Bar & Grill is in the heart of the Barossa Valley South Australia near the historic township of Angaston, home to huge iron bark beams, large open fireplace for winter nights and a beautiful vine cover courtyard for summer dining. Vintners offers excellent regional food and service (winner best regional restaurant South Australia 2012) combined with an extensive wine list of both local and imported wines. Vintners offer quality, diverse and tailored packages for group bookings, functions and weddings to appeal to the most discerning diner.

Specialising in delicious and generous tapas plus wood fired pizza, at fig22 the focus is on fresh, inspiring and gourmet food. Located at The Wheatsheaf Inn Gawler, the restaurant has a casual ambience that lets you know you are somewhere special without being intimidating. Karen Roesler, chef and owner, leads her team of family and friends. It is her love of food and wine combined with friendly staff, full table service and an intimate wine list that makes fig22 unique. Popular dishes include Mushroom Arancini with Aioli and Spicy Sausage with Chilli Beans. The seasonal dishes have been created to be shared with great company and conversation. fig22 is open for lunch and dinner Wednesday - Saturday and lunch on Sundays.

Dining

94 Murray St,

Barossa Valley Way,

Cnr Seppeltsfield Rd & Stonewell Rd,

Tanunda SA

Rowland Flat SA

Marananga SA

Phone 08 8563 0405

Phone 08 8521 3000

Phone 08 8562 4144

www.1918.com.au

www.jacobscreek.com

www.appellation.com.au

1918 Bistro & Grill

Jacob’s Restaurant

Appellation

Situated in the heart of the Barossa Valley in Tanunda, 1918 Bistro and Grill is passionate about serving fresh, seasonally-inspired cuisine from their beautiful old stone homestead. Owners Christian and Melissa Fletcher are passionate about good food, good wine and good service and are waiting to share their Barossa hospitality with you. 1918 has a great selection of the Barossa’s best wines, as well as others from Australia and internationally but guests are also welcome to bring their own special bottle. Start off your 1918 experience with some of the freshly baked bread and house made parmesan oil, and choose from an extensive menu of entrees, mains and desserts.

Inside the Jacob’s Creek Visitor Centre, you will find award winning Jacob’s Restaurant where you can enjoy a relaxed lunch matching food and wine. The Jacob’s Restaurant offers a memorable combination of food and wine, with panoramic views of vineyards and the Barossa hills. Jacob’s Restaurant has appointed accomplished chef Genevieve Harris who will create a truly memorable dining experience using a range of ingredients and local flavours that reflects the versatility and character of South Australia. The Jacob’s Creek Visitor Centre is a multiple award winner for excellence from the Restaurant and Catering Association of South Australia.

Appellation at The Louise, recognised as an excellent dining experience in South Australia, serves food that unashamedly reflects the local growing seasons. Executive Chef Ryan Edwards and his team are passionate about freshness, seasonality and regionalism; harvesting from their kitchen garden, baking their own breads, butchering and curing their own meats and see wine and food as the most natural of partners. A daily changing Chef’s Tasting Menu and seasonal a la carte menu are both available nightly. Appellation’s extensive awardwinning wine list presents the best of the Barossa, Australia and iconic wines of the world.

Barossa Vintage Festival

Running from March 30 to April 7 (taking in the Easter long weekend) in 2013, the Barossa Vintage Festival is the largest and longest running wine tourism festival in Australia. The Festival was originally conceived by winery personalities Colin Gramp (Orlando Wines) and Bill Seppelt (Seppelt Wines) in 1938. World War II delayed plans, but in 1947 the first Vintage Festival was held. It was a single Thanksgiving Ball that celebrated the end of the grape harvest, and the end of conflict which had threatened to divide the German Australian community. Over time the Barossa Vintage Festival has grown to meet the needs of locals and visitors alike. The ‘Festival Ball’ remains a signature event, and is now joined by a range of community driven events celebrating the blend of Barossa – the wine, the food, the people and their stories through a variety of wine-themed events which are held during the festival, including wine tastings and competitions, musical events, food events with local produce, balls and parades. The 2013 Barossa Vintage Festival program is vibrant, indulgent, exciting and a little on the educational side if that’s what you are looking for. This is your chance to get lost amongst the vines, wines and iconic attractions of the region over nine days and experience what we do best – wine, food, music and art coupled with good old Barossan hospitality. Wine lovers can rub shoulders with Barossa’s luminaries and young guns at the ‘Rare and Distinguished Barossa Wine Auction’, and other favourites like the ‘Legends Behind the Barrel’ and the opening ‘Carnival’ event (at Seppeltsfield) are back. Other ‘must do’s’ include ‘Jazz in the Cellar’, ‘Harvest Market’ and ‘Comedy in the Vines’ and if you’re looking for a touch of glamour matched with the region’s best food and wine, don’t forget to reserve your seat at the Vintage Festival Ball.

Image courtesy of Barossa Dirt

f you want to be inspired by Australia’s greatest blend of wine, food, characters and culture, the Barossa Vintage Festival is the perfect event for you. Showcasing more than 100 experiences in nine days, the festival is Australia’s largest and longest running tourism festival.

Fun For All

Since its humble beginnings as a Thanksgiving Ball in 1947 to celebrate the end of grape harvest, the Barossa Vintage Festival has grown to become the highlight of Australia’s tourism calendar. The Barossa Vintage Festival 2013 has plenty of entertainment to suit people of all ages, from wine tastings and competitions, through to concerts, food events with local produce, workshops, tours, balls and parades. Families will be entertained at Carnival at Seppeltsfield, with the grape treading competition, children’s games and rides, horse carriage rides, a bouncing castle and face painting, along with performances by Cool 4 Kids, Murray the Magician, Colonel Mustard and more. The Ziegenmarkt is a unique event which provides an opportunity to step back in time and experience a traditional Barossa Market – with an old fashioned livestock and local produce market and auction. Local fresh fruit and vegetables, smallgoods, pickles, breads, wines, livestock (including pheasants, hares and sheep) and a host of other delicacies will go under the auctioneer’s hammer. There will also be a range of stalls and activities like shearing and horse shoeing. The colourful Vintage Festival parade has been a tradition since 1949 and will include more than 100 floats. It is the Southern Hemisphere’s longest parade, travelling from Nuriootpa to Tanunda along Barossa Valley Way. The kids will have a blast during the easter egg hunts on Easter Sunday and you won’t want to miss Yalumba’s renowned two day Harvest Market. Food enthusiasts can step up to the stove in the brand new Race to the Place with Maggie Beer, turn up to the Barossa Breakfast Rave, settle into a long lunch, intimate cooking class or wander the casual Butcher, Baker, Winemaker trail. There is also a Friday Night Live concert which will be presented by Barossa’s Young Ambassadors, Comedy in the Vines, heritage walks, craft fairs, historical church tours, twilight concerts, progressive artworks, poetry and storytelling, high teas, family film nights, or quilting exhibitions – just to name a few! One of the most popular community features of the Barossa Vintage Festival is the Barossa Scarecrows competition. Scarecrows in the Barossa have evolved into a unique form of community art. Appearing like magic in the

weeks leading up to the Festival, Scarecrows can be found in gardens, shop fronts, streets and vineyards inspired by local school children, families, wineries and businesses. Gather a car load of friends and follow the Scarecrow trail through the Barossa. The Lyndoch Family Fun Day on Easter Monday will see the kids entertained for hours, while the parents can relax with a fine wine. Or you might want to be hands on in the wine industry and become a winemaker for a day, starting with a walking tour of a local vineyard and learning the importance of good viticulture practices, before moving on through the winery for some tasting and then to the lab to blend your own wines. Supporting the festival are three local characters who join the festivities to help create the fantastic and fascinating Barossa Vintage Festival stories. These stories can be viewed on the MyBarossaChannel on YouTube. Cherie Hausler – local tea and bread producer – shares a humble look into the produce of one of the longest running food culture settlements in Australia. The diverse and core Barossa food community culminates in one spot every Saturday morning – The Barossa Farmers Market. Wine brothers’ Phil and Dave Lehmann – sons of the legendary Peter and Margaret Lehmann – share their wine journey and what they see for Barossa wine tomorrow. Barossa life and the celebration of end of harvest means as much to these guys as the appreciation of great wine, with a bit of fun. A window into the German sport of Kegel and the history of the Tanunda ‘bahn’ through the stories of Geoff Nicolai. A Barossa tradition since 1858, this Kegelbahn remains a gem of the region through the preservation of the club’s traditions and encouragement of new generations to play. It is the only existing Kegelbahn in the Southern Hemisphere and one of the oldest sporting bodies in Australia. The biennial Festival is full of great stories about real people, while being a unique experience accessible to locals and all Australians. Each event connects back to the heart of the Festival’s origins and ingredients that represent ‘real life’ in this renowned region, which in 2011 attracted over 65,000 visitors across the program. The Barossa Vintage Festival has evolved to become the premier wine tourism festival in Australia, and is the jewel in the Barossa events calendar. Spoilt for choice over this nine day festival, the only trouble you will have, is deciding on what not to do.

Image courtesy of Barossa Dirt

Vintage Festival

Featured Events

Rare & Distinguished Barossa Wine Auction

April 5 I 10am I Penfolds Red Barrel Cellar I Venue*Tix: $20 inc. catalogue and refreshments I absentee bidders can register Barossa’s finest from past and present vintages, many virtually unprocurable outside of the Auction. 120+ lots go under the hammer at this live auction, including Penfolds, Henschke, Orlando, Yalumba, Torbreck, Rockford, Peter Lehmann and emerging stars. Top price in 2011 was AU$50,600 for a six-litre 2006 Penfolds Grange Imperial. No shortage of wine personalities in attendance. http://barossavintagefestival.com.au/event/raredistinguished-barossa-wine-auction/

Race to the Plate with Maggie Beer

April 6 I 10am-4pm I The Farm Barossa Function Centre I Venue*Tix $60 pp. Limited to 10 teams of 4 -6 Race around the region and against the clock in search of ingredients then hit the stoves with Maggie Beer for a food challenge set and judged by one of our nation’s most loved cooks. Enjoy Maggie’s Orchard cider by the dam as the winner is announced. www.barossavintagefestival.com.au/event/ autumnal-cooking-class-by-saskia-beer-3/

Vintage Festival Parade

April 6 I 10am-2pm I Travels from Nuriootpa to Tanunda I Free Revel in this colourful and boisterous spectacle that is the longest parade in the Southern Hemisphere. A treasured tradition since 1949, today the Barossa Vintage Festival parade involves more than 100 floats and 1200 participants and jeered on by thousands of onlookers lining the path from Nuriootpa to Tanunda who then congregate at the Tanunda Recreation Park for ‘Meet you at the Park’ - an afternoon of family fun, food, wine and traditional Barossa celebrations, including grape treading and Kegel (1pm-4pm). www.barossavintagefestival.com.au/event/ vintage-festival-parade/ April 6 I 6.30pm-12am I Chateau Tanunda I Venue*Tix $150pp or table of 8 for $1080 The original Vintage Festival event first held in 1947 to celebrate end of harvest. Today, this event is a lavish black tie evening, with 2012 Barossa Wine Show award winning wines, regional menu by Owen Andrews and entertainment by Colonel Mustard. www.barossavintagefestival.com.au/ event/festival-ball/

Carnival at Seppeltsfield

March 30 I 10.30am-5pm I Seppeltsfield Winery I Entry Free Free entertainment for all, Carnival is the official opening event of the Festival, featuring regional food and wine, live musical performances, children’s activities, an Easter egg hunt, local artisan crafts and helicopter joy flights. www.barossavintagefestival.com.au/event/ carnival/

Image courtesy of Barossa Dirt

Black Tie Festival Ball

Barossa Grounds

Gallery exhibition, breakfast, face painting, kids art photography exhibition and cooking school. www.barossavintagefestival.com.au/event/ harvest-market/

April 3 I 9.30am – 5pm I Venue*Tix $150pp – strictly limited I Departs from Barossa Visitor Information Centre No serious wine lover should miss this ‘once in a lifetime’ experience offering access to vineyard gems of Barossa Valley and Eden Valley, including Hill of Grace and Langmeil’s 1843 Freedom. Hosted by Barossa winemakers and grape growers who will inspire with their intuitive understanding of the incomparable Grounds that make up the patchwork of vineyards across the Barossa. Includes tastings, lunch and coach travel. www.barossavintagefestival.com.au/event/ barossa-grounds-tour/

Yalumba Harvest Market

Legends behind the Barrel

April 4 I 12noon – 3pm I Barossa Valley Estate I Venue*Tix: $30 inc. glass. Meet and taste with Barossa’s wine characters from boutique to iconic. Unreleased wines sampled direct from the barrel, and compare to current releases. www.barossavintagefestival.com.au/event/ legends-behind-the-barrel/

Saskia Beer Autumnal Cooking Classes

April 2 & 3 I 8am-4.30pm I Entry Free I Bookings essential for Cooking School & Lunch and Museum Tasting harvestmarket@yalumba. com / 08 8561 3200 Bustling two-day picnic rug affair with market square of 40 Barossa food producers (the origin of the successful Barossa Farmers Market). Includes cooking school and lunch (previous chefs include Tobie Puttock, Martin Boetz, Christine Manfield), Museum Tasting with Robert Hill Smith and Louisa Rose, Hill-Smith

April 1, 2 & 5 I 12-2pm I Bookings Essential $55 I info@barossafunctioncentre.com / 08 8562 1902 Intimate cooking classes demonstrating ‘Autumnal Barossa’ and the simplest ways to prepare wonderful feasts using Saskia’s award-winning Barossa chicken, pheasants, Berkshire pork, The Black Pig small goods and seasonal Barossa ingredients such as quinces, crab apples, grapes and figs. www. barossavintagefestival.com.au/event/autumnalcooking-class-by-saskia-beer/

Barossa Vintage Festival

30 March to 7 April 2013

twitter.com/mybarossa

facebook.com/barossavintagefestival

Barossa Seppeltsfield With a proud and priceless legacy dating back to 1851, Seppeltsfield is Australia’s most iconic wine estate famed for the Centennial Collection - an irreplaceable and unbroken lineage of Tawny of every vintage from 1878 to current year. Seppeltsfield remain the only winery in the world to release a 100 year old, single vintage wine each year. The exciting release of small batch table wines, including reds crafted through the historic 1888 Gravity Flow Winery, has added yet another layer to the ever-evolving Seppeltsfield story. The Seppeltsfield vision and passion is to revive the Village based around the unique and irreplaceable Seppeltsfield fortified wine collection. These wines are extremely limited and truly rare, with over 21 years barrel age. PARA GRAND Tawny aged in barrel for an average of 10-15 years, PARA 21 YO Rare Tawny was aged in the barrel for 21 years before release, the most complex of the wines is DP90 RARE, and Australia’s most awarded wine in wine shows. The Seppeltsfield Cooperage is open again. Andrew Young, the Seppeltsfield cooper has been making barrels for over 30 years and is one of the best in the business. Apart from making new barrels and repairing our old ones, Andrew is making unique hand-made souvenirs, such as cheese-boards. Seppeltsfield offers Daily Heritage Tours, Private Group Tastings or the chance to ‘taste your birth year’ direct from barrel in our Centenary Tasting, bookings for these tours are essential. Take a leisurely stroll through the extensive grounds and enjoy what Seppeltsfield Wines has to offer you. Seppeltsfield Rd, Seppeltsfield SA 5355 cellarsales@seppeltsfield.com.au

Ph: 08 8568 6217 www.seppeltsfield.com.au

Hentley Farm Set among the rolling hills on the banks of Greenock Creek at Seppeltsfield, Hentley Farm is a boutique, vineyard that produces distinctive wines reflective of the exceptional site. Founders Keith and Alison Hentschke specialise in producing premium quality single-estate and single-block wines solely from the vines grown on the Seppeltsfield property, an old 150-acre vineyard and mixed farming property. Hentley Farm take a leading edge approach to vineyard management, and use predominantly French oak as it suits their style by providing great subtleties and complexity without overtaking the flavour and aromatic potential of the wines. When you buy a bottle of wine from Hentley Farm, you know you are on a winner because their 2010 The Creation Shiraz Cabernet was awarded the esteemed number one position as Australia’s Best Shiraz Cabernet Blend for 2012 in The Age/Sydney Morning Herald 2013 Good Wine Guide. The intimate cellar door is housed in the property’s original 1840’s homestead, which has been painstakingly restored to retain its original charm. It provides the perfect environment for an exceptional boutique wine experience. Hentley Farm has cemented itself as one of Australia’s leading boutique wineries, being awarded a rare five red-stars and placed in the top 3.8% of all Australian wineries by acclaimed wine writer James Halliday. To end your day of discovery in the winery, it’s time to escape and enjoy an excellent meal in the Hentley Farm’s intimate and elegantly restored stables set amongst the vines, and take a journey of pleasure, discovery and intrigue. Cnr Gerald Roberts Rd and Jenke Rd, Seppeltsfield Ph: 08 8562 8427 cellardoor@hentleyfarm.com.au www.hentleyfarm.com.au

Bethany Wines

Wines

The Schrapel family planted their first vineyard in 1852 with cuttings carefully nursed as the family made their way from Germany to the Barossa. More than a century later in 1981, fifth generation descendants, brothers Geoff and Robert Schrapel, established Bethany Wines high in the Barossa Ranges overlooking the family’s 38 hectares of vineyards and the historic village of Bethany.

Bethany Wines produces award winning whites and reds including Riesling, Semillon, Chardonnay, Grenache, Cabernet and Shiraz. These wines have been celebrated by the world’s wine press and have received excellent endorsements from Australia’s premier wine writers including James Halliday and Jeremy Oliver. In its 30 year history Bethany has been awarded over 100 medals for its Barossa Shiraz, with the Semillon and Chardonnay also gaining regular accolades. The flagship is the GR Reserve Series, which has won numerous international trophies including the Frescobaldi Trophy for the Best Vintage Red Wine at the 2004 International Wine and Spirit Competition. The current vintage of GR, the 2005 GR10 Reserve Shiraz, has won gold medals in the UK, USA and China. Bethany Wines’ philosophy has remained constant over 30 years - to produce exceptional wines that show the true flavour of their vineyards and which are a natural reflection of the unique microclimate of the Barossa Ranges. Visit Bethany’s cellar door to taste the full range of wines whilst enjoying stunning views across the Barossa. The Schrapel family look forward to welcoming you. Bethany Rd, Tanunda SA 5352 bethany@bethany.com.au

Ph: 08 0563 2086 www.bethany.com.au

Murr ay Street Vineyards Nestled amongst the beautiful agricultural tapestry of Greenock on the Western ridge of the Barossa Valley, Murray Street Vineyards is creating a new Barossa heritage around both traditional and contemporary wine styles and varieties. Drawing from six generations of viticultural and winemaking knowledge, winemaker Andrew Seppelt is working with his dynamic and talented team to deliver wines with rich flavours and deep character. The team invite you to explore this extraordinary combination of history and technique at their Tasting Room; relaxing under the vine covered deck & savouring spectacular views of their Greenock Estate where you will be guided through their premium portfolio by informed and passionate staff. The Murray Street Vineyards enticing wine range has been developed around sensory enjoyment with friends and food. Classic Barossa varieties such as Shiraz, Grenache, Mataro and Semillon are presented alongside some of the newer styles to the region such as Marsanne and Viognier. The combination of great architectural design and thoughtful presentation lift the wine tasting experience to another level – one you will be eager to boast about to your friends as you share the wines with them. Murray Street Vineyards have won numerous awards for their wine and Tasting Room, making them a must visit destination. Murray St, Greenock SA 5360 wine@murraystreet.com.au

Ph: 08 8562 8373 www.murraystreet.com.au

Barossa Barossa Taste Sensations Food and wine lover Jonathan Milne established the Barossa Taste Sensations Food and Wine Tours to share some of the Barossa Valley’s best-kept secrets. Having lived in the South Australian tourism wine region for sixteen years, Jonathan has developed great admiration for the initiative, innovation and talent shown by small producers of fine wines and gourmet food. Jonathan encourages visitors to celebrate the enormous creativity and craftsmanship that runs through the region. His unique tours can be tailor-made to suit individual needs and are ideal for wine collectors on the lookout for something special. Do you want to create your very own wine tour of the Barossa Valley? If so, Jonathan will draw on his extensive local knowledge to tailor a tour that provides an enriching and uniquely personal experience. Whether you want to spend a day, a weekend or a week exploring the region, Jonathan will ensure that your specific wining and dining requirements are covered, all you have to do is ask! For a weekend away, the “Do Almost Nothing” package will ensure you do exactly that. With one of the Barossa’s leading bed and breakfast cottages, Jonathan offers a full days touring through the sights of Adelaide before you go to your overnight accommodation. On one of Jonathan’s Taste Sensation Tours you will see fantastic views in hidden parts of South Australia, smell the fresh country air and taste sensational wines and food produced in the Barossa. Sit back and relax in one of the luxury Volkswagon Tourer while Jonathan takes you on a tour of discovery. 53 Fife St, Angaston SA 5353 tours@barossatastesensations.com

Ph: 08 8564 3130 www.barossatastesensations.com

Kies Family Wines Do you want to indulge in a little happiness? The Kies Winery at the southern end of the Barossa Valley is an 1880’s cottage style cellar door overlooking the glorious Barossa Ranges. From the Dedication Room, you may even see the famous Monkey Nut Tree, a pine nut tree that marks the highest point in the Ranges. Visit the family and staff and learn about seven generations of the Kies family who have been growing grapes in the Barossa for over thirty years. An award winning wine range is available for tasting, spanning light, fruit driven whites, full-bodied reds and a selection of fortifieds. Winemaker Jo Irvine, was the winner of the Best Winemaker title at London Wine Awards 2002. Her passion for Merlot has created the second flagship varietal for Kies alongside its famous Barossan Shiraz. No matter your palate there is a wine for you. The Monkey Nut Cafe serves platters and light snacks complimenting the wines on offer. The cafe boasts incredible views of the Lyndoch Ranges. A great place for a pit stop, you can indulge yourself with delicious coffee and homemade cakes. Perhaps you would be happier with a cup of tea. Visit Tina’s Teashop and select from 30 different teas from England, Germany, Russia, China and Japan or try a unique fruit infused or herbal health tea. An array of tea paraphernalia and gorgeous gifts will temp you in Tina’s famous tea shop. Kies is a great place for groups, some tour operators call in daily and many have been visiting since Kies opened in 1985. Kies is a must stop on your next tour of the Barossa Valley. Barossa Valley Way, Lyndoch SA 5351 cellardoor@kieswines.com.au

Ph: 08 8524 4110 www.kieswines.com.au

Sorby Adams Wines

Wines

With its heart and home in Barossa’s Eden Valley, Sorby Adams Wines is a boutique producer of quality, handcrafted, individual vineyard wines. Owner and Winemaker Simon Adams is passionate about creating varietal wines to reflect the strengths of Eden Valley which he believes produces some of the best Riesling and Shiraz in the world. The Barossa is famous the world over for its diversity of its wine styles and Sorby Adams Wines is a reflection of his hands on approach to winemaking; he personally tends each vine to handcraft his Eden Valley range and his backyard 1932 vineyard produces the flagship wines. Equally as famous for its passionate food-loving community, the Barossa has a new food and wine hub that will surely delight both locals and visitors.

The Sorby Adams Wineroom & Pantry in Angaston has recently expanded its range making it the Barossa’s premier destination for those wishing to experience the best the region has to offer. The range now includes a range of Italian foodstuffs from Mercato in Adelaide. From aged balsamic vinegar and fine Italian extra virgin olive oils to arborio rice and a cornucopia of preserved vegetables, fruits and meats. At the Wineroom & Pantry you can sample the range of Sorby Adams wines, dine on the delicious lunch menu and purchase wines to drink with your meal by the bottle and the glass. Whether you are a ravenous local or a visitor to Australia’s premier wine region, make Sorby Adams Wines an essential stop in the Barossa for all your wine and food needs. 51 Murray St, Angaston SA 5353 simon@sorbyadamswines.com

Ph: 08 8564 2993 www.sorbyadamswines.com

Schild Estate The Schild name has a long history in the Barossa, dating back to 1952 when Ben Schild purchased the Three Springs Farm property in Rowland Flat and settled with his family. Today, second and third generation vigneron’s work side by side to solidify Schild Estate’s reputation, built on its commitment to translating the unique tapestry of its vineyards into wines that speak of honesty and drinkability. In 2009, Schild Estate commenced building a new state of the art winery facility at Lyndoch. Surrounded by 40 acres of prime vineyard land the “Valley of Hope” winery is equipped to take Schild Estate well into the future. Schild Estate’s winemaking philosophy is driven by a desire to produce wines that are reflective of their location, true to their variety and offer balance and elegance. Their grounded approach is in the vineyards that are all in the area around Lyndoch in the southern end of the Barossa Valley. Cellar Door is the ideal place for a leisurely tasting where informative and friendly staff can guide you through the entire Award winning Schild Estate range. All the wines can be enjoyed in the cellar door or in the relaxed courtyard with a regional grazing platter displaying delicious Barossa produce. Featured wines include the 2012 Barossa Unwooded Chardonnay with its intense flavour and if you enjoy a good drop of sparkling wine, the 2009 Barossa Sparkling Shiraz might be to your liking. For a complete wine experience, take some time out and visit Schild Estate Wines. 1 Lyndoch Valley Rd, Lyndoch SA 5351 purebarossa@schildestate.com.au

Ph: 08 8524 5560 www.schildestate.com.au

Barossa Château Tanunda Château Tanunda is the Barossa. This majestic bluestone winery and vineyard property is a living testament to the colorful history and pioneering spirit attached to Australia’s pre-eminent wine region. Now, thanks to the passion and dedication of its new owners, the Geber family, this iconic Barossa estate is celebrating a new lease on life. Built in the late 1880s, Château Tanunda is home to some of the earliest plantings of vines in the Barossa Valley, dating back to 1845; Australia’s largest (37,674 square feet) and oldest wine Château; and a designated monument in Australia’s Register of State Heritage Places. Owner John Geber is confident Chateau Tanunda will once again stand as a regional hero winery in the Barossa. Château Tanunda’s success is the Barossa’s success. For years it was the heart of Barossa winemaking. A veritable “Ivy League” of Australian winemakers worked or studied at the facility, including Max Schubert, the creator of Grange Hermitage; Prof. Soebels, Australia’s first qualified oenologist; Bill Seppelt; Grant Burge; Geoff Merrill and others. In 1994, in recognition of its rich history, Château Tanunda was placed on the Register of State Heritage Places – but by then its glory days were a memory. Abandoned by its then owner, Australian wine giant Southcorp, the property was a shell of its former grandeur. When John Geber chanced upon it in 1998, and bought it a day later, he embraced the challenge of restoring this magnificent property to its iconic status. True to its Barossa heritage, Château Tanunda continues to source most of its grapes from local growers. 9 Basedow Rd, Tanunda SA 5352 info@chateautanunda.com

Ph: 08 8563 3888 www.chateautanunda.com

Gibson Wines Gibson Wines is one of the reasons why we all love the Barossa Valley so much - small family winery, ancient soils and hand-crafted wines all made by a true Barossa character, Rob Gibson. With his signature moustache and motorcyclists’ leather waistcoat, Rob puts all his years of experience into every bottle. Nestled in Light Pass at the high northern end of the Barossa Valley, Gibson Wines produce approximately 5000 cases of wine each year, depending on the vintage. Fruit is sourced from predominately estate grown fruit with small selections coming from contracted grower fruit for added diversity come blending time. Rob Gibson, affectionately known as ‘The Dirtman’, has been in the industry for over 30 years and his commitment, unique approach and passion for wine has cemented him as a reliable producer of richly flavoured and complex wine. Anne’s involvement in the wine industry began in 1986 where she worked in the Export Department at Penfolds, giving her an in depth knowledge and understanding of the wine community. Their signature ‘Sunday Funday’ events are a hit with local and interstate supporters. Kick back and relax to live music, enjoy mouth-watering food as well as their range of award-winning wines. Entry is free and you can find all the dates on their website. So for an intimate understanding of the winemaking process and some fantastic flavours, head to Gibson Wines and be enticed into the world of great wine. Cellar Door is open 7 days a week, from 11am to 5pm. Willows Road, Light Pass SA 5355 esales@gibsonwines.com.au

Ph: 08 8562 4224 www.gibsonwines.com.au

Taste Eden Valley

Wines

Discover a range of rare and unique wines from the boutique producers of the Eden Valley wine region, renowned internationally for its premium Rieslings and cool-climate reds. Taste Eden Valley Regional wine room brings together 10 artisan winemaker’s, with diverse winemaking styles, representing the breadth and diversity of the Barossa’s beautiful high country, all under one roof. Many are only available through the cellar door and represent the best of Eden Valley wines from the region’s smallest and most exclusive producers. More than just a cellar door, Taste Eden Valley offers a chance to learn about the region’s distinctive wines and the people who make them. Daily comparative tastings, local produce and handcrafts and Valley of Eden Tours will help you explore this remarkable wine region. Or just come for a tasting, and then relax in the manicured gardens of Franklin House with a glass of your favourite wine and the daily choice of regional nibbles. Private tastings with any of the producers can also be arranged with prior notice through Cellar Door on 08 8564 2435.

The Taste Eden Valley Regional Wine Room is located in Angaston; at the gateway to the Eden Valley wine region and just an hour’s drive from Adelaide. Drop in and discover the best that Eden Valley has to offer, in the heart of the Barossa. Open 7 days - 10:00am - 5:00pm, Closed Good Friday and Christmas day through to the 2nd of January. Group bookings appreciated. 6 Washington St, Angaston SA 5353 info@tasteEdenValley.com.au

Ph: 08 8564 2435 www.tasteedenvalley.com.au

Cimicky Wines Cimicky Wines is perhaps the Barossa Valley’s best kept secret and one that wine lovers would not want to miss. Czech immigrant Karl Cimicky founded Karlsburg Winery in1973 and in the early 1980’s his son Charles was inspired to take over the family estate. As such, good wine soon turned to great wine and Cimicky Wines was born. Today, with Charles and Jennifer Cimicky at the helm, this boutique sized winery specialises in the limited production of full bodied Barossa Reds. But very quietly! Although Charles has repeatedly been awarded Best Re3d Wine and Best Wine overall at the prestigious Barossa Wine Show, he is a shy and retiring wine maker, passionately devoted to his vines and craft. This is a true Estate with the well-equipped and modern winery surrounded by its supporting vineyards. All processing takes place in temperature controlled conditions using the very best equipment wine making technology has to offer. Judicious use of seasoned American and French Oak within a cool underground cellar is further evidence of Charles Cimicky’s devotion to excellence. A visit to this friendly and picturesque winery is a rewarding experience indeed. And if you wish to truly indulge, you may partake of an elegant high tea at High Tea @ Cimicky to further please your palate! Head on down to Cimicky Wines and let the wines do the talking! You will not be disappointed. Cimicky Wines are open from Tuesday to Friday 10.30am to 3.30pm and by appointment HIGH TEA @ CIMICKY is open Thursdays and Fridays. Bookings essential. Hermann Thumm Dr, Lyndoch SA 5351 cellardoor@cimickywines.com.au

Ph: 08 8524 4025 www.cimickywines.com.au

ith its comfortable climate, beautiful beaches, spectacular scenery and array of wildlife, the Fleurieu Peninsula is an ideal holiday destination for all seasons. Located south of Adelaide, the peninsula was named after by Nicolas Baudin, the French explorer who mapped the south Coast of Australia in 1802. But the history of the region goes back much further – in fact, many thousands of years before the arrival of Europeans, to the days of the traditional owners, the Kaurna, Permangk and Ngarrindjeri Aboriginal tribes. Driving around the peninsula is the best way to see it, but there are plenty of bus tours and trains that access the different regions. Summer is when the grapevines and eucalypts flourish into a sea of colour; in Autumn, mild temperatures and good surf attract many tourists; Winter is a time of cooler days with coastal breezes and whale watching; while Spring sees the return of life to the landscape. No matter what time of year you visit, the Fleurieu Peninsula has something for everyone. Spend a few days and see where it takes you Nature abounds here, with more than 250 kilometres of coastline condensed with hills and valleys, lakes and national parks. Relax and indulge, taking in some of the region’s spectacular food and wine, the scenery, the wildlife and the locals. You might like to visit Victor Harbour, a stunning seaside town on the coast, overlooking Encounter Bay. Most popular in the summer months with beach accommodation to suit all budgets, the town is littered with great restaurants, cafes, tearooms, museums and galleries. Take a walk or horse drawn tram across to Granite Island, home to a large colony of Little Penguins which shelter on the island at night. If you’re here in the colder months, you will have the opportunity to spot some Southern Right Whales as they make their way to nearby waters

to have their babies. Head to the top of the top of the Bluff for some fantastic views of take the heritage railway along the oldest rail route in Australia. If you’re a lover of good food and great wine, McLaren Vale is one of the best places to be. The wineries are located comfortably between the sea and the Mt Lofty mountain ranges, with some of them being more than 100 years old and still producing grapes from their original vines. With the stunning scenery and sensational flavours, it’s a fantastic place to winery-hop or you might even prefer stay for a romantic weekend away. The food here is fresh and tasty, with seafood and local produce easy to find. The area around the entire peninsular is a grower’s paradise with the climate, rainfall and fertile soils, and you can taste buy these direct from the growers and makers at the local Farmers Market for a taste that will not disappoint. You will find a variety of local jams, relishes, hand-made breads, olives, cured and smoked meats and rich cheeses. In Winter the region comes alive with the Sea and The Vines Festival, with the Wine Bushing Festival held later on in the year. You will not forget a visit to see the natural wonders of the region, like the Southern Lakes, mouth of the Murray River and Coorong, as well as following the wine district through Langhorne Creek and follow the food trail at Mt Compass. And if you are a fan of antiques, the historic Strathalbyn is a must. Right on the top of the peninsula is the quiet little fishing town of Cape Jervis, the gateway to Kangaroo Island, and a fantastic place to visit at any time of the year. The Cape is a beautiful place to visit with bushland, native flora and fauna, as well as a variety of activities for the whole family. The town looks over Backstairs Passage – the strait that lies between the Cape and the eastern end of Kangaroo Island – and has a number of parks and recreational areas. It’s also great for fishing so be sure to bring your tackle box. You will also find the start of the famous Heyson Trail walking track, extending all the way to the Flinders Rangers, and just a short drive north is Rapid Bay, a great spot for walking, diving and fishing. When visiting Fleureau Peninsula you will find so much variety for all ages and tastes - all you will need to do is decide when you are going to visit.

Image courtesy of Tourism South Australia

Fleurieu Peninsula

Fleurieu Peninsula Lush Pastures Tantalising aromas wafting through the air, guests sharing an amazing experience, Lush Pastures in the Fleurieu Peninsula is designed for guests to unwind from a busy week, relax in luxurious surroundings, indulge in beautiful food and wine, and enjoy the sensational views as houseguests of Andy and Cheryl. Award winning architect Max Pritchard was brought on board to design three lodges for guests, a main building for Andy and Cheryl’s home, entertaining area for guests and a large kitchen for Cheryl to produce delicious food for all. Lush Pastures is just an hour from Adelaide and the three individual, architecturally designed lodges accommodate up to six guests in a stunning setting. Picture yourself waking up to an amazing view over the valleys to the sea with a wedge tail eagle soaring in the sky and watch the shadows disappear as the sun rises higher in the sky. In the true tradition of a home stay, you will have a variety of food to delight your palate. Your delicious meals will reflect the homegrown produce available from Lush Pastures and will complement other locally procured goodies.

Photographer Sam Noonan

29 Coomooloo Rd, Bald Hills SA 5203 enquire@lushpastures.com.au

For a weekend getaway to remember, the Friday-Saturday-Sunday Experience is perfect. Feel what it’s like to be pampered and looked after as you chill out for the weekend without breaking the bank. You will experience the ultimate weekend getaway, take time to wind down and relax while enjoying a friendly and homely ambience at Lush Pastures with your hosts Andy and Cheryl. Ph: Cheryl - 0411 286 377 www.lushpastures.com.au

Andy - 0414 940 721

Beach Huts Feeling a little stressed? Relax and unwind on the deck of your own selfcontained beach hut, tune off the noise of the city and listen to the sound of the birds and the waves of the nearby south coast surf. At Beach Huts Middleton, you will experience a village style atmosphere with a uniqueness and charm like no other. Centrally located between Goolwa, Port Elliot and Victor Harbor, Beach Huts provides the perfect place from which to explore the many local attractions. To suit your own or family needs there are twelve Beach Huts you can choose from, all with en suite bathroom and spa, kitchenette with all the modern utilities. On arrival you will be greeted with a bottle of champagne, and provisions for continental breakfast are included. If you don’t want a room with a spa, the Noosa and Coogee Huts may be more to your liking and budget. Both rooms have queen bed accommodation and are available at an affordable rate. The Torquay and Scarborough are family oriented rooms with spa bathroom and two bedrooms one with a queen bed and a single, the other room has a double sofa to pull down for the family. Staying at one of the Beach Huts to suit your family requirements, taking in the views then finishing your day with either a BBQ in the cool of the day or a delicious meal at Blues Restaurant located in the centre of the Beach Huts complex, will certainly be a holiday to remember. 1 Charles St, Middleton SA 5212 info@beachhuts.com.au

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Ph: 08 8554 3933 www.beachhuts.com.au

Accommodation

Authenticity

Need to take time out? Just an hourâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s drive south of Adelaide in the picturesque township of Port Elliot, you will find the perfect retreat - an ideal sanctuary for a relaxing getaway. Authenticity Spa Resort a the original and premier Destination Spa in South Australia and offers a range of spa services and traditional therapies. If you want to stay, the Authenticity Manor is the perfect haven. The Estate is set in an expansive botanic garden, with vineyards, olive, Moreton Bay fig, almond and cypress trees with an abundance of bird life. The Manor was built in 1864 and has been renovated to a Mediterranean style. Its high ceilings, large windows, stone walls, timber floors and rustic furnishings set an elegant mood and each bedroom is decorated with different colour schemes, provincial antiques and reproductions. The large and comfortable lounge room has classic style feather sofas and the main dining room overlooks the central courtyard, where you can enjoy al fresco meals under the vines. The courtyard pool with adjoining heated spa creates pure magic. The Manor accommodates up to 16 people, ideal for your corporate function or family celebration. Take a walk, swim or bike ride along the stunning beaches or through the rolling hills of the Fleurieu Peninsula, take time out to relax with a luxurious treatment (such as the healing massage, body treatment or Yoga) and relish the flavours of the renowned Mediterranean vegetarian cuisine made using only fresh local and organic produce and ingredients. Relax, rejuvenate your body, mind and soul, and reach towards that innate natural state of inner peace & harmony at Authenticity Spa Resort. 14-30 Waterport Rd, Port Elliot SA 5212 bookings@authenticity.com.au

Ph: 08 8554 2088 www.authenticity.com.au

K aringa Park Take a trip back in time with a stay at the Karinga Park Homestead, located on picturesque Hindmarsh Island, just an hour from Adelaide. Only metres from the Murray River and minutes from great restaurants, beaches and sightseeing; Hindmarsh Island is the Gateway to the World Heritage area of the Coorong. Karinga Park is set on 20 acres of lush forest and bushland, and is home to an abundance of wildlife. Accommodating more than 38 guests, Karinga Park offers a range of accommodation for visitors, including the popular Homestead. Built in the 19th Century, the rambling stone homestead was once the residence of a 1,000 acre working dairy. Immerse yourself in the classic decor and relax as you admire the grand, mansion-style home which overlooks the Murray River. Spend your evenings in front of the open fireplace, while away your days in the swimming pool and take yourself on a tour on the timber floors under 15 foot ceilings. Karinga Park Homestead radiates relaxation that is only complimented by the friendly hospitality and first rate service. The homestead offers self-catering accommodation for 20 people and includes 8 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, 3 indoor dining areas, a country kitchen and much more. Whether you are taking a holiday with extended family, looking for the perfect group accommodation for a special occasion, or taking your employees on a business retreat or conference, the Homestead has everything you need, and more. So sit back, relax and stay a while in the beautiful Karinga Park Homestead. 20-34 Batson Pde, Hindmarsh Island SA 5214 info@karingapk.com.au

Ph: 08 8383 7575 www.karingapk.com.au

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Fleurieu Peninsula Ballast Stone Estate Wines This family owned and operated winery has over 35 years’ involvement in the wine industry. The dream for family involvement inspired Richard and Marie Shaw to expand their 5 acres to over 1,200 acres, with vineyards in both the McLaren Vale and Currency Creek regions of South Australia. Their three sons now manage the business, from growing the grapes, through to wine production and sales in both Australian and International markets. The Shaw Family vision includes a strong focus on producing high quality wine. Their modern viticultural technologies combined with time proven, and arguably, old fashioned hands-on winemaking, allows them to produce wine with optimal varietal character. Ballast Stone Estate’s main varietals grown comprise Merlot, Grenache, Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon, with some smaller plantings of Petit Verdot, Sangiovese, Roussanne, Malbec and Pinot Gris just to name a few, so you will be sure to find a preferred wine. You can visit Ballast Stone Estate Wines at either of their two cellar door locations; amongst the vines at the winery in Currency Creek or visit the cellar door at Signal Point, Wharf Precinct Goolwa, overlooking the Murray River, where you can also visit the adjoining café and art gallery. Ballast Stone Estate Wines cellar door is open 7 days a week from 10am to 5pm (excluding Christmas Day and Good Friday). Signal Point, Wharf Precinct, Goolwa SA 5214 Myrtle Grove Road, Currency Creek SA 5214

Ph: 08 8555 0810 Ph: 08 8555 4215

cellardoor@ballaststone.com.au www.ballaststonewines.com

Cleggett Wines Thirty five years ago, the owners of Cleggett Wines in Langhorne Creek made a discovery that would set them aside from any other winery in the country. They found that some of their red cabernet grapes had turned white. The discovery attracted the attention of scientists from CSIRO and cuttings were taken from the branch and propagated. Over several years planting increased and the vines continued to produce this white fruit. These rare grapes have since gone to make a huge impression on the wine industry and to provide a unique product, creating a market all of its own. The vineyard has been in the Cleggett family for more than 100 years and has 80 hectares of vines, with the first planted in 1911. Following the discovery of this new type of grape in 1977, and after many years of development, two new grape varieties were produced - White Cabernet Sauvignon (Shalistin) and the Bronze Cabernet Sauvignon (Malian) and in 2000, Mac and Anne McLennan established Cleggett Wines to launch these two new varietals to the world market. You can check out the full range of Cleggett Wines at their new modern cellar door, which provides the perfect backdrop to showing off these unique wines. You can taste the wines for free and if you want something little more, vineyard platters and cheese platters are available for prebookings. Cleggett Wines also offers superior accommodation in a gorgeous studio room which overlooks the gardens and vineyard - the perfect way to end a day of exploring and wine tasting in the Fleurieu region. Langhorne Creek Road, Langhorne Creek SA 5255 info@cleggettwines.com.au

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Ph: 08 8537 3133 Ph: 08 8537 3102

www.cleggettwines.com.au

Wines

Fox Creek Wines

Fox Creek Wines is a family owned winery, conveniently located 45 kilometres south of Adelaide, between the villages of McLaren Vale and Willunga, on the Fleurieu Peninsula. Visitors are always welcome at the cozy Cellar Door cottage which epitomises the colonial history of the region, maintaining its original nineteenth-century stone exterior and many other original features. Fox Creek’s award winning wines are available for tasting at the Cellar Door every day from 10am to 5pm and are best enjoyed whilst enjoying one of the bi-monthly art exhibitions or with a regional platter on the verandah, overlooking the vineyards and beautiful gardens. Relax while your children test their skills on the free treasure hunt. Fox Creek also offer complimentary behind the scenes winery tours on Monday and Friday mornings at 10.20am.

As wine is made principally in the vineyard, great attention is given to caring for the vines, this is reflected in the high quality of Fox Creek’s wines and the accolades they receive. In the last four months of 2012 alone, they won three Trophies and seventeen Gold Medals for seven different wines at national and international wine shows. This includes the 2009 Fox Creek Reserve Shiraz winning the Trophy for Best Shiraz/Syrah at arguably the most prestigious wine show in the world, the International Wine and Spirit Competition in London. Fox Creek invites you to stay in this stunning region where you can enjoy some of Adelaide’s best restaurants and wineries alongside some of Australia’s most beautiful beaches! 90 Malpas Rd, McLaren Vale SA 5171 claire@foxcreekwines.com

Ph: 08 8557 0000 www.foxcreekwines.com

Victor Harbor Wines When you’re visiting the Fleurieu Peninsula region, be sure to drop in and visit the fabulous Victor Harbor Winery – the first winery in this picturesque region. Located in the Southern Fleurieu Peninsula Hills behind Victor Harbor, just 8 kilometres from the sea, the winery was established in 1991 by Adrienne and Neville Scott. Planting of a 10 acre vineyard commenced in 1992 and the first wines – Cabernet Sauvignon and Shiraz - were produced in 1996. The Cellar Door was then opened for sales in 1999. The Family Boutique Winery specialises in a range of premium cool climate red, white and fortified wines unique to Victor Harbor and produced straight from the estate vineyard. The long dry summers in the region are perfect for producing these wines, made from grapes which are handpicked in March and April from the estate’s low yielding hand-pruned vineyard. Award winning Hindmarsh Valley Dairy goat cheeses are available with tastings.

Image courtesy of Tourism SA

When you visit the winery, take some time out with a cheese platter, coffee, tea, shortbread. The Cellar Door is purpose built to cater for visitors to the winery and includes easy access for disabled persons. Adrienne and Neville are your friendly hosts and if you have any questions about winemaking, they are available. You might also like to take some time to taste some of the fantastic wines in their range. The Winery is open 10am to 5pm Wednesday to Sunday and Public Holidays. Cnr Adelaide and Mont Rosa Rd, Hindmarsh Valley SA Ph: 08 8554 6504 scotts@victorharborwinery.com.au www.victorharborwinery.com.au

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ust a few kilometres from mainland South Australia lies paradise. A place of rugged, natural beauty, where sea lions spend their days basking in the sunshine, where penguins come to play, and where koalas, echidnas and kangaroos seem part of the family. This is a place you will never want to leave; but one that will stay with you forever. This is Kangaroo Island. Australia’s third largest island, Kangaroo Island lies at the entrance of Gulf St Vincent, just off the Fleurieu Peninsula. The island has a rich and extraordinary history dating back thousands of years. The island separated from mainland Australia around 10,000 years ago as a result of rising sea levels from the last glacial period and Aboriginal history dates back around 16,000 years, though this population is believed to have disappeared around 2,000 years ago. The 4,406km2 island was resettled during the 19th century onwards by sealers and whalers, and the economy has since thrived on agriculture and tourism. Kangaroo Island is a scenic treasure, visited by tens of thousands of people every year. Take your time and drive around the island, past soaring cliffs, thick green forests, stunning white beaches, and magnificent sand dunes and experience the best Kangaroo Island has to offer. From the views and an abundance of wildlife, to lavender farms, eco adventures and cultural tours, there is something for everyone, no matter what age. Spend a day out in Kingscote, South Australia’s first official European settlement and the largest town on the island. Kingscote is not only home to around 1,600 people but also to a colony of the smallest penguins in the world – the little penguin. Laugh and watch in wonder as the penguins go about their lives in the cliffs and rock walls – you might even find them nesting next to commercial buildings at the Wharf. A dark night between April and November is the best time to view these gorgeous little characters. A number of other smaller towns on the island will also present some spectacular adventures, including Penneshaw – on the eastern tip of the Dudley Peninsula, which is where the ferry drops of visitors and cargo. Explore the Peninsula with visits to Antechamber Bay, Brown Beach, Baudin Beach, Island Beach and American

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Beach, and for spectacular views of the coastline and mainland, climb the Cape Willoughby Lighthouse. Spend time at Parndana in the heart of the island – home to an agricultural research centre established in the 1940s and 1950s; and American River on the north coast - first visited by Europeans in 1802 and the spot where a group of American sealers camped for four months in 1803. Families have lived here for generations and you will see the land, renowned for its stunning array of wildlife, is dotted with working famers. Take a drive to the north coast, just 18 kilometres from Kingscote to Emu Bay - a fashionable destination for holiday makers with its 4 kilometre beach; a place where the white sands, tall cliffs, parks and valleys meet. A popular destination for a few days rest, there are a variety of retreats here, as well as some fantastic fishing via an access ramp for boats and jetty. On the South Coast, D’Estrees Bay, Murray Lagoon, Seal Bay and Vivonne Bay are just some of the must-see destinations; a hive of activity with Australia’s most accessible sea lion colony, with a variety of flora and fauna, curved sandy beaches and brilliant blue waters with a number of fantastic picnic and fishing spots. An adventure on Kangaroo Island would not be complete without a visit to Little Sahara - a spectacular system of beautiful white sand dunes surrounded by forest; climb the slopes and sandboard, slide or simply run your way back down again. Kangaroo Island has plenty of accommodation options, with everything from self contained units to bed and breakfasts and cottages. Or you might prefer to take your swag or tent and spend the night under the stars. And there is never a lack when it comes to food – with pubs, cafes and formal dining; or simple take-away, so you can grab some fish and chips and settle in for a feast with the pelicans on the beach. As South Australia’s newest wine region, you will also find a number of local wineries, so stop in and taste some samples. Whatever your preference when it comes to food and dining, its here. Whether you are visiting the island as a holiday in itself, or an add on to a South Australian adventure, the beaches, conservations parks, wildlife sanctuaries and stunning natural wonders will leave you wanting more.

Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria

Kangaroo Island

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Kangaroo Island

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Kangaroo Island is home to an abundance of breathtaking scenery and spectacular wildlife all year round. With untouched forests to a range of species, the island gives visitors the opportunity to get up close and personal in a natural setting. Through its isolation from the mainland, the island has become a sanctuary for a range of different and even rare species so if you are an animal lover, you will not be disappointed. More than one third of the island is declared either a Conservation Park or National Park, and there are five significant wilderness areas to protect the region’s long-term inhabitants. Some of these areas are vast, while others are much smaller, each of which conserve an array of natural environments, including mallee woodlands, low open forests and woodlands, fresh and saline lakes, coastal cliffs and sand dune systems – all of which are home to an abundance of wildlife. Regardless of the time of year you come to Kangaroo Island, you are sure to have a close encounter with some amazing wildlife. All year round you can expect to see an abundance of kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas and brush-tailed possums making their way through the forests, bottle-nose dolphins frolicking in the bright blue waters, sea lions and fur seals basking in the sun and more than 250 bird varieties. But at particular times during the year, there are also some amazing things that will only happen at a particular time, and during a particular season. Here is a sample of what you might see through the seasons: SUMMER Between December and February much of the wildlife hides away to escape the Australian heat. Despite being right at the southern end of Australia and though the average is a balmy 25 degrees Celsius, temperatures can still get up to highs of 35 degrees. Kangaroos and Tammar wallabies are most prevalent at dawn and dusk on the island, so be careful when you are driving along the roads as you might be heading

AUTUMN From March to May the colours on the island begin to flourish. Gradual rainfall turns the grasses green and the transition from the warm summer to cooler winter sees a variety of change. The island’s famous Little Penguins, found at colonies across the island –most notably at Kingscote, begin to nest in Autumn, along with the endangered Glossy Black cockatoo, the smallest of the five blackcockatoos. It is estimated there are only around 300 of these left on the island, so if you have the opportunity, keep your eye out for these stunning birds – recognisable by its brown-black head, neck and underbelly, with red or orangered tail panels. Autumn is also the time when the gorgeous black swan begins to raise its wings, trumpet and stretch in a stunning dance of courtship. WINTER Kangaroo Island is at its best between June and August, with lush countryside, water flowing through the rivers and waterways and wildlife teeming to life. It is the time when baby koalas, kangaroos and wallaby leave their mother’s pouch to embark in the world for the first time, when animals flourish both in the day and at night, and ospreys and echidnas begin their mating rituals. Winter also sees Southern right whales make their annual visit to the protected waters around the Island as they make their way north to give birth in June, and back to the Antarctic waters closer to October. SPRING Between September and November the Island flourishes. Wildflowers are in abundance with around 40 different species located throughout the island, and with Spring being the international time of rebirth, platypus and Cape Barren geese choose this time of the year to lay and incubate their eggs. Shearwater migrates in September, with hundreds of thousands of birds passing by the south coast on their 15,000km journey which takes them past New Zealand and Japan in just two months. November is also a fantastic time for sea lions to bask in the sun.

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Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria

A Wild and Wondrous World

towards a popular crossing. Summer also signifies birth on Kangaroo Island, with Australian sea lion pups starting to slink into society from January; koalas, wallabies and kangaroos are all giving birth and Heath goannas laying eggs in termite mounts – the warmer weather combined with the heat in the mounds providing a perfect incubator. Summer is also the time when the population of more than 7,000 New Zealand Fur-seals, which live around Cape du Couedic, breed.

Tourism Kangaroo Island

Think of an island with 509 kilometres of coastline and 155 kilometres from the East to the West Coast, with native bushland, wildlife, adventure and exploring, where pristine beaches, local wines and sunsets are on your doorstep. Welcome to Kangaroo Island. It’s the place where sea lions bask on white beaches, koalas doze in lofty eucalypts and pelicans soar over shimmering lagoons.

port, or prefer to be close to shops and restaurants. You might even want to find accommodation that is secluded for ultimate privacy and comfort. Either way there is a region on Kangaroo Island to suit every style. Ultimately it won’t matter if you stay in a five star suite, a lighthouse keeper’s cottage or bunk down in a swag under the stars, you’ll love waking up on Kangaroo Island.

Tourism Kangaroo Island is an incorporated, non-profit, cooperative body that is responsible for marketing Kangaroo Island as a tourism destination and is pivotal in management, leadership and the development of tourism on the Island. Each region and town on the island is its individual qualities and it’s a Kangaroo Island is a pristine matter of finding what suits you best. wilderness, a place that has offered Some of the Island accommodation protection to populations of native is disabled friendly and pet friendly animals and as you travel the island to suit every traveller. You can bring you’ll find soaring cliffs, dense your own vehicle from the mainland forest, towering sand dunes and by ferry or you can hire a vehicle from Kingscote, Penneshaw or arcs of bone white beach. the airport. There are almost 1,600 Naturally enough, being surrounded kilometres of roads on the Island, by fertile lands and rich waters, and while the major roads are Kangaroo Island produces some sealed, you will need to take extra of Australia’s finest gourmet foods. care on all others. Gastronomic adventurers should get ready to be amazed by the What do you do when you’re on the likes of freshly caught King George Island? The list is endless. Whiting, sheep’s cheese, marron, a unique variety of honey and an There are a range of tours on the exciting range of varietal wines. Island which will allow you the comfort of sitting back and relaxing As if this isn’t enough on your while someone else does the plate, you’ll also find rich histories, driving. The local guides provide a thriving arts community, and a a fantastic insight into the island. range of accommodation options There are coach and four wheel ranging from outdoor swags to drive tours available. For the lighthouse keeper’s cottages to more energetic, you might like to take a bike or hiking trip instead super-chic retreats. – just ensure you have the right If you’re looking for somewhere experience and fitness levels. to stay, Tourism Kangaroo Island can help to ensure you stay in the Enjoy a photography tour where best region to suit your style and you can be inspired as you spend requirements. You might need a week learning from a professional accommodation close to the ferry photographer and visiting some

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of Kangaroo Island’s most iconic locations, or for the nature enthusiast - a conservation project with a difference, the Rare Breeds Farm saves rare, heritage and unusual breeds of domesticated farm animals from extinction. If you wish to continue in the outback vein, visit a shearing demo to get an insight into what goes on in a shearing shed, while the equestrian in the family will love the horse riding expeditions. Enjoy this unique opportunity to experience the beauty nature has to offer on this majestic horse ride for all ages and abilities. Take the road less travelled and discover food and wine at nature’s pure heart. The Kangaroo Island Farm Gate and Cellar Door Trail introduces you to producers and products at their source. Kangaroo Island Tourism received Silver in the Visitor Information and Services Category at the 2012 South Australian Tourism Awards, and with friendly and professional staff at Kangaroo Island’s only Accredited Visitor Information Centre, they will be able to customise an itinerary as unique as you are, to get the most from your time on Kangaroo Island. And if you are looking for keepsakes of your Kangaroo Island visit, they also sell gifts and souvenirs. There is so much to do on Kangaroo Island all you have to do is make the time to visit. Howard Drive, Penneshaw SA 5222 Ph: 08 8553 1185 tourki@kin.net.au www.tourkangarooisland.com.au

Kangaroo Island Island Beach House A modern timber pole framed home decorated to allow your family to revel in the beach atmosphere, the Island Beach-House is nestled into sand dunes surrounded by natural flora and overlooking miles of unspoilt coastline. The pristine beach of Vivonne Bay is at your doorstep. The Island Beach House feature reverse cycle ducted air conditioning and fully equipped modern kitchen with all the utensils you would expect to ensure a comfortable stay. Bay windows that open out onto a balcony to let in the fresh air and light all day surround the spacious open lounge and dining area. Comfortable sofas provide a resting place to enjoy a good novel from the extensively stocked library. The house sleeps eight people, with two Queen size bedrooms, one bedroom with two double bunks. To make your packing a little easier, all linen is supplied. The Island Beach House is designed as a complete getaway, so you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find a television but if the peace and quiet is too much for you, a radio and CD player is available for use. With so many spectacular local attractions within easy driving distance of the Island Beach House, this really should be on your vacation list. Seal Bay is 13 kilometres from Vivonne Bay and Cape De Coedic Lighthouse is perched on the edge of some of the most breathtaking landscape that many visitors say they have never seen. Lot 147 Crabb Rd, Vivonne Bay SA 5223 ibh@fergusonaustralia.com

Ph: 08 8414 8088 www.fergusonaustralia.com

K angaroo Island Wilderness Retreat Brimming with an abundance of wildlife, at the Kangaroo Island Wilderness Retreat you can experience firsthand the intimacy the Australian wilderness has to offer. In the tranquil backdrop of bushland the retreat works in harmony with its natural surrounds and management are committed to environmental sustainability practices. The heart of the retreat is a natural bush courtyard where guests can relax amongst native flora and experience the multitude of bird and other local wildlife - pure simplicity in natural surrounds. Nestled among 113 acres of beautiful scenery at the gateway to the Flinders Chase National Park, the Wilderness Retreat offers accommodation to suit everyone. All rooms feature King Beds and/or Single Beds, private bathroom and amenities. Eco lodge rooms are ideal for the budget conscious family with air conditioned apartments accommodating up to five people. We are a family friendly retreat and ideal for children of all ages. The bath suites andÂ spa suites offer first class facilities for those of you who want to indulge a little more. In the early light of morning, you can relax by azure crystal waters, or take a pre-ordered hamper or picnic lunch on one of the many walks in the National Park. As the sun slowly sets, enjoy alfresco dining on local produce, fresh fish and premium Australian wines, sure to tempt your taste buds. We have all kangaroo island wines available. Kangaroo Island Wilderness Retreat in its natural charm guarantees you will have a unique holiday experience to remember. Lot 1 South Coast Rd, Seddon SA 5223 stay@kiwr.com

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Ph: 08 8559 7275 www.kiwr.com

Accommodation

Acacia Apartments

Acacia Apartments in Kingscote provide 4.5 star exciting, impeccably presented and spacious one and two bedroom accommodation, including a specially built apartment to provide for disabled guests. The complex features a spectacular indoor heated swimming pool and spa pool, set in beautifully maintained cottage gardens. There are BBQs, a pool table, free WiFi and PC use, a children’s play area, and a book, game, and video library. Your friendly hosts even live on site. Staying at Acacia, you can enjoy nearby coastal walks and remarkable birdlife, and the apartments are just a few minutes walk from the pretty, historic Reeves Point Settlement area, and the Kingscote wharf. Kingscote is central and a friendly country town overlooking Nepean Bay. There is a penguin colony and Marine Centre, pelican feeding, a museum, art galleries, a hospital, wineries, fishing, and many little cafes, shops and services. For those romantics, Acacia is the perfect spot for a wedding reception, and to ensure your special day runs even more smoothly, there is even a lovely honeymoon apartment. From Acacia Apartments, 4WD Kangaroo Island Designer Tours are popular, with executive eco tours which can be tailored to provide the ideal Kangaroo Island experience to suit. Acacia and Designer Tours cater especially for those looking for small, comfortable tours which allow you to discover both wildlife and the magnificent coast. There are also special options for elderly and for disabled guests. For those wishing to combine business with sightseeing, there is also a conference centre which can fully cater for small groups, or meetings of up to 80 people, and Acacia also offers business support services. 305 Rawson St, Kingscote SA 5223 deidre@acacia-apartments.com.au

Ph: 08 8553 0088 www.acacia-apartments.com.au

The Open House For those who love the intimacy of a traditional style Bed & Breakfast, The Open House is truly the ‘home away from home’ you’ve been looking for! Located in South Australia’s Kangaroo Island, The Open House is a 3 ½ star B&B catering for singles, couples, groups and families. Enjoy delicious home style meals made using local island produce and true Australian hospitality from your host Jane, who is a 5th generation Islander. During your stay, relax in the intimate accommodations, made up of four fully ensuited rooms and holding up to 12 guests at any time. Each room has all of the comforts of home with welcoming décor, a TV/ DVD player, ceiling fans, electric blankets and complimentary hot drinks for guests. If you like to mingle, there is a guest lounge available to get together and have a chat or just to relax and read.

Image courtesy of Tourism SA

The Open House can be found in Parndana on Kangaroo Island, centrally located on the 150km long island giving you access to all the island has to offer. Parndana is a small town with many services available and has some fantastic local attractions for the whole family to enjoy. It is home to the Settlement Museum, where you can discover how soldiers post WW2 settled the town, or check out the local wineries, Roo Lagoon Gallery or the Parndana Wildlife Park. The area surrounding Parndana and The Open House is abundant with wildlife and covered in gorgeous wildflowers during late winter and spring. The Open House is perfect for that uniquely Australian getaway.

70 Smith St, Parndana SA 5220 peckover@bigpond.com

Ph: 08 8559 6113 www.theopenhouse.com.au

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Experiences

K angaroo Island Odysseys

Why should you travel with Kangaroo Island Odysseys Tours? They provide quality 4WD wildlife and nature discovery tours for small, personalised groups with a range of tour packages from one to five days as an option that allows you greater flexibility to plan your itinerary and choose your accommodation to suit your individual needs. If you prefer, Odysseys will customise a private charter itinerary. Odysseys accepts bookings from families with children, although they recommend not taking children under the age of seven in an escorted 4WD-tour. Travel in modern 4WD vehicles accompanied by a professional local guide to interpret and share the island’s treasures, its history, flora and fauna, and the ecological and geographical features. The fleet includes late models Toyota Landcruiser 4WD to take four people, and custom built Isuzu 4WD vehicles to take 12 guests. Vehicles are air-conditioned for comfort and have onboard emergency communication devices. Personalised touring with small groups of people creates an atmosphere for up-close nature experiences. While on your island tour indulge in a gourmet lunch of local produce and excellent Australian wines in one of the exclusive lunch sites located on the privately owned Heritage-listed, natural bush property. Kangaroo Island Odysseys’ offers a variety of language tours with regular departures. The strict policy of not mixing language commentary on tours ensures you will be able to enjoy the tour without interruption. Tours are available daily in English, with Italian, French and German tours running on separate departure days. 34 Addison St, Kingscote SA 5223 kireservations@kiodysseys.com.au

Ph: 08 8553 0386 www.kiodysseys.com.au

K angaroo Island Wilderness Tours Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours gives you a unique nature and wildlife experience like no other. Local guides will take you on a journey of discovery of Australia’s leading wildlife destination. Travel the island and visit all the spectacular points of interest in comfort and style in award winning small passenger luxury 4WD vehicles. As part of your tour itinerary, you might like to include the Wilderness South Coast 1 Day 4WD Kangaroo Island Tour. Your tour begins immediately after pick up at Kingscote Airport. You will then head on to Seal Bay for a guided tour along the beach for a fascinating, informed walk amongst the sea-lions, a colony of 600 bulls, cows and pups. If you would prefer your own exclusive private touring, Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours is in a unique position to offer that option to you in the most luxurious 4WD’s available on the island. Kangaroo Island is renowned for its hosted dinner, bed and breakfast properties so why not experience the best? Seascape Lodge is a luxury boutique B & B set on five tranquil acres in a spectacular coastal location, overlooking the 5km of pristine Emu Bay beach. Seascape Lodge is exclusive to Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours clients. For that true island accommodation experience, Stranraer Homestead, an ambient, quiet and delightfully refurbished home beautifully reflecting its era, is a traditional B & B. Kangaroo Island Wilderness Tours owners Paul and Mandy Brown are committed to making sure you have the ultimate Island experience. Cook St, Parndana SA 5220 reservations@wildernesstours.com.au

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Ph: 08 8559 5033 www.wildernesstours.com.au

SEALINK KANGAROO ISLAND Whether you want to rub shoulders with Masterchef judge George Calombaris, indulge in a Roman banquet with Maggie Beer or simply enjoy Kangaroo Island’s exceptional produce, SeaLink has you covered with its range of packages to the 2013 Kangaroo Island FEASTival. The 2013 Kangaroo Island FEASTival is being held from 25 to 30 April and includes a diverse showcase of KI produce including seafood, wine and gin, whilst highlighting the world-class quality of Kangaroo Island’s idyllic locations and pristine environment. Kangaroo Island is situated just 15kms from the South Australian mainland and can be accessed by car and passenger ferries or air from Adelaide Airport. It is known as Australia’s 4th national icon next to Sydney Harbour, The Great Barrier Reef and Uluru. Become part of this extraordinary FEASTival, whilst exploring Kangaroo Island’s natural wilderness, gastronomy, wine and lifestyle through an exciting collection of dining events. Main Events include a SeaLink Launch Night with George Calombaris, a Romanesque banquet with Maggie Beer and a Tasting Kangaroo Island big day out with wine and food tastings and a signature dish competition. There are also ‘Pop Up Events’ including an Adelaide Film Festival

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FilmFood evening with Chef Andrew Fielke, a fine dining dinner at Dudley Wines and a Utes and Boots mystery picnic. Unique ‘Table Surfing’ events allow you to share dining experience with the locals in their own homes. Packages range from a Tasting KI day tour on Sunday 28th April from Adelaide for $107pp, (early bird special $99), to the ultimate experience self-drive package from $761 pp, including return ferry travel with your own car, the SeaLink Launch Night with George Calombaris, Maggie Beer’s Roman Banquet Lunch and three nights’ accommodation. People can also construct their own self-drive packages, choosing where they want to stay and pick the events they wish to attend. Packages are available from Melbourne and Sydney flying with Virgin Australia and either flying into Kangaroo Island or picking up a hire car from Adelaide Airport and taking the ferry. Open 7 days, from 7.30am to 7pm.

Ph: 13 13 01 bookings@sealink.com.au www.sealink.com.au

25th to 30th April 2013

EVENT PACKAGES Tasting KI Day Full Day Package

$107pp from Adelaide Early Bird Special - $99pp* from Adelaide

A Night With George 3 Day/2 Night

From $502pp based on Aurora Ozone Hotel, room only

Maggie Beer’s Roman Banquet 3 Day/2 Night From $517pp based on Aurora Ozone Hotel, room only The Ultimate KI Feastival 4 Day/3 Night

From $791pp based on Aurora Ozone Hotel, room only

Flexible Self-Drive Options 2 Day/1 Night

From $201pp based on Island Resort Motel, including continental breakfast

For more information, including package inclusions, visit sealink.com.au or call 13 13 01 *Book before 28th February 2013. All prices are based on per person, twin share accommodation. ABN 69 007 122 367. Lic No. TTA 64062

ncient artefacts, harsh landscape, magnificent mountains and a world teaming with wildlife – this is the Flinders Ranges in South Australia. The Flinders Ranges is the largest mountain range in South Australia, around 200 kilometres from Adelaide and stretching for more than 430 kilometres from Port Pirie in the south, via Alligator Gorge and Wilpena Pound, to Mount Hopeless and Lake Callobanna in the north.

Highlighted by the most brilliant red sunsets, the Flinders Ranges is a vast region, with links to an ancient world. It is a place like no other, where dense lands meet with wilderness sanctuaries, and where you can experience some of the most extraordinary history Australia has to offer. The Flinders Ranges came about through folded and faulted sediments of the Adelaide Geosyncline, and date back around 540 million years ago. The first humans to inhabit the area were the Adnyamathanha people and the wealth of cave paintings, rock engravings and other artefacts you will find here, indicate a history dating back tens of thousands of years. The region is also known for mineral wealth and pastoral runs dating back to the 1800s and was named after Matthew Flinders. Today, the Ranges provide a home to Aborigines, farmers, miners and pastoralists and also play host to an abundance of flora and fauna in its national parks, conservation parks and mountains. Here, desert lizards and rock wallabies are so plentiful, it will seem as though they are part of the family. Drive through courts of wild Kangaroo and mobs of Emu, with wedge-tail Eagles flying overhead as you venture through the landscape, dreaming of what you will discover next. The land is thick with gum trees, pine, mallee and black oak and there are trails of long distance routes which provide the perfect holiday for passionate walkers, cyclists and horse-riders. Take a scenic flight over the region or walk around Wilpena Pound, a natural amphitheatre of enormous proportions. Take in the views

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from St Mary’s Peak, fossik for opals or visit the Painted Desert, Moon Plain and the Breakaways at Coober Pedy or spend a few days in a four wheel drive over the Simpson Desert. There are so many amazing places here to visit and the roads here are sealed or gravel, so you want to take caution and watch out for grazing sheep and cattle. Arkaroo Rock dates back 5,000 years and includes a 1-2 hour walking trail where you will see a variety of red, yellow and white ochre and charcoal paintings, depicting bird tracks and snake lines, to waterholes and people. Drive through farming country, passing by the Buckaringa Sanctuary and Proby’s Grave on the way to the Buckaringa Scenic Lookout, where just a short 100 metre walk will give panoramic views of the ranges. Nearby is the Aboriginal Historic Site, Death Rock, a seven metre high quartzite rock, where you can stretch your legs and take in a swim at the spring fed waterhole. The rock was an important campsite for the Aboriginal people as it was a permanent source of water and also provided shade, which would cover those who were near death in their last moments. Here you might also find evidence of the original Ghan Railway track that passed through next to the road. While you’re in the area, you might also like to stop in at the Kanyaka ruins, part of the pioneering sheep run Kanyaka Station, which leased 94,500 hectares in the mid 1800s.The property housed up to 70 workers and their families with the main homestead made of stone and mortar, with 16 rooms. Visit Port Augusta via Horrock’s Pass and Pichi Richi Pass and discover some of the region’s most popular tourist attractions, including a monument to the arrival of Matthew Flinders. Port Augusta is known as the ‘Crossroads of Australia’, the spot where major inland highways from Western Australia, Northern Territory, New South Wales and Victoria converge. See Devil’s Peak and Hancock’s Lookout along the way. And be sure you take the time to visit Yourambulla Caves Aboriginal Site, 11 kilometres south of Hawker the site features three Aboriginal galleries. Yourambulla means “two men” and refers to two hills nearby which represent two ancestral beings who camped at this place during the Dreamtime. Most of the images here are painted by charcoal mixed with animal fat, along with ochre. No matter your age or whether you are a historian, painter, bushwalker, geologist, photographer – or just love a good holiday, the Flinders Ranges is the ultimate truly Australian holiday destination.

Flinders Ranges

Image courtesy of SA Tourism

& the Outback

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Flinders Ranges R awnsley Park Station Whether it’s a relaxing stay in one of the award-winning luxury eco-villas, an indulgent family getaway in Arkapena Homestead or camping under the stars, Rawnsley Park Station, nestled at the foot of Wilpena Pound, is the ideal base for exploring the Flinders Ranges region of South Australia. Owned and managed by fourth generation locals Tony and Julieanne Smith, Rawnsley Park offers a true Outback experience, complete with stunning sunsets, breathtaking scenery and welcoming, country hospitality. Luxury Eco-villas are set on a secluded spot with breathtaking views. Stylish and beautifully appointed one and two-bedroom villas are the ultimate in ecofriendly accommodation. Arkapena Homestead is a traditional Australian stone homestead, circa 1950, that has been renovated into indulgent, contemporary accommodation, complete with private swimming pool and outdoor shower. Holiday Units set at the foot of Rawnsley Bluff, have a three and a half-star holiday rating and are perfect for families and groups of friends. All units are self-contained with private bathrooms and come in one to threebedroom configurations. The Caravan Park offers budget accommodation as well as powered sites and a secluded bush camping area. There is also a store, fuel, swimming pool and WiFi access. The Woolshed Restaurant is open 7 days for dinner, or enjoy a drink on the deck overlooking Rawnsley Bluff. There are plenty of activities to enjoy – hiking, mountain bikes, scenic flights, 4WD tours and Hot Air Balloon Flights, or just soak in the views on your doorstep. Wilpena Road, Via Hawker SA 5434 info@rawnsleypark.com.au

Eco-villas/Holiday Units: 08 8648 0030 www.rawnsleypark.com.au

Caravan Park: 08 8648 0008

Gum Creek Station Located in the picturesque Flinders Ranges, Gum Creek Station is a working sheep station approximately 480kms from Adelaide. It has a rich farming and pastoral history and it adjoins the Flinders Rangers National Park and is home to Gum Creek Lodge accommodation, perfect for a rural getaway. The Lodge is located minutes from Brachina Gorge, a spectacular tourist attraction. It is also close to the renowned Ediacaran Fossils and other nearby highlights include Aroona Valley and the Heysen Range, where the towering east facing rock faces glow in the morning sun. The station also has its own natural treasures such as its amazing landforms, stromatolites and fossilized raindrops. Gum Creek Lodge is situated on a ridge near the main homestead of the Station and it overlooks the stunning surrounds of the Flinders Rangers with a valley of river red gums and native pines. The Lodge has 4 ensuite bedrooms and has an additional bunk room and separate bathroom and sleeps up to 10 in total. There is a fully equipped kitchen, and spacious dining and lounge areas. The rear court yard features an open fire place, wood fired pizza oven and drinks niche all surrounded by magnificent ranges. Sit back around a camp fire under towering red gums, or relax on your own personal deck. There is exclusive access to almost 200km2 of undisturbed country and activities include bushwalking, 4WD tours and mountain bike riding. With such a beautiful property and so close to many of the area’s natural wonders, Gum Creek is perfect for adventure seekers and those that just want to relax and enjoy the peaceful surrounds. Main St, Blinman SA 5730 gumcreek@activ8.net.au

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Ph: 08 8648 4883 www.gumcreeklodge.com.au

Accommodation

Black Jack Get-A-Way

Fully experience the freedom, space and calm of the Flinders Ranges, as a guest in one of the Black Jack Getaway Bed and Breakfast’s, or in a place to think and get things done at our Function Centre, the Blacksmith’s Chatter. Wherever you choose, you’ll enjoy a relaxed and homely environment where your whole family, including your pets, are welcome. Welcome to Nana’s Home. Nana’s Home a beautiful old stone home located near the centre of Orroroo, within easy walking distance of the main street. With polished Baltic pine floorboards, lead-light and assorted memorabilia of days gone by, Nana’s Home provides a taste of pioneering history. Magpies Nest is a cosy cottage that overlooks the Pekina Creek, home to majestic River Red Gums and plentiful bird life. It is an ideal place for that relaxing get-a-way from the hustle and bustle of normal life. Magpies Nest is a hideaway cottage nestled on the outskirts of Orroroo. Kangaroo Cottage is another hideaway cottage, comfortable and fully furnished it can accommodate up to six people and with two queen size and two single beds it will make sure your family has a comfortable stay. Are you looking for a conference venue with a difference? Bring your team out and head bush towards the edge of the Outback for your next company seminar. Black Jacks Get-A-Way presents the Blacksmith’s Chatter a fully restored former Blacksmiths Shop that is ideal for your small group conference or function. For top quality accommodation Black Jack’s Get-A-Way might just have the wow factor you are looking for. 12 Fifth St, Orroroo SA 5431 blackjackgetaway@bigpond.com

Ph: 0427 581 302 www.blackjackgetaway.com.au

the lookout cave underground motel Looking for an underground experience to remember? The Lookout Cave Underground Motel is a family owned and operated motel, providing guests with a warm and welcoming unique holiday experience that comes with living underground. The Motel is located in the opal-mining town of Coober Pedy in the South Australian outback minutes from the town centre in a secure and quiet location with ample parking and as the name suggests, The Lookout Cave Underground Motel offers the best views in Coober Pedy.

Image courtesy of SA Tourism

Immerse yourself in incredible ochre-lit skies across the vast desert landscape that continues all the way out to the local landmark, The Breakaways, a striking example of arid scenery from the flat-topped mesas to the stony gibber desert. For a unique accommodation experience, The Lookout Cave Underground Motel features 19 non-smoking underground guestrooms including self-contained units with private bathroom. Standard rooms are also underground and have queen-sized beds with a private bathroom. Motel Units feature bedrooms with queen-sized beds allowing you to spread out in comfort and when you rise, you can start your day in a healthy way by ordering a continental breakfast. Spacious undercover parking is available and complimentary transfers to and from the airport or bus depot can be made prior to your journey. For easy payment VISA, Mastercard and American Express credit cards are accepted. McKenzie Cl, Coober Pedy SA 5723 reservations@thelookoutcave.com

Ph: 08 8672 5118 www.thelookoutcave.com

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Flinders Ranges Ark aroola Wilderness Sanctuary For a relaxed, unique outback holiday, you can’t beat one of Australia’s premier ecotourism destinations. Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary is South Australia’s first legally protected wilderness sanctuary. From the minute you arrive you will be blown away by the majestic beauty of the Flinders Ranges. Explore and discover rugged mountains, towering granite peaks, hidden lakes and waterholes, razorback ridges, ancient seabeds and many native and endangered animal species. Arkaroola is approximately 600km north of Adelaide in the spectacular Flinders Rangers. It is operated by the Sprigg family and has won the S.A. Tourism Award for Ecotourism 3 times! It is unique not only in its location, but also in that it is the first Flinders Ranges Tourist organisation to achieve the coveted Advanced Ecotourism accreditation and there are now 11 of these products for you to experience. There are a range of guided and self-guided tours available, including bushwalking, 4wding and even 2wd tracks. Arkaroola is home to the famous Ridgetop Tour, travelling in a special built open top 4wd and taken on a guided tour to experience what is considered some of the most rugged country on earth. You will see massive red granite mountains, hills covered in gold spinifex, beautiful lakes and into the dessert beyond the grandeur of the ranges. Wildlife abounds with over 160 species of native birds and it is home to the endangered Yellow-foot Rock Wallaby. Three astronomical observatories are available for beginner to advanced astronomers, and photographic workshops from those wanting to improve their skills from the renowned outback photographer Peter MacDonald. Cnr Arkaroola & Umberatana Rd, Arkaroola SA 5710 res@arkaroola.com.au

Ph: 08 8648 4848 www.arkaroola.com.au

Steamtown Heritage R ail Centre Recently awarded South Australian Tourism 2012 Attraction, Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre was once South Australia’s busiest regional railway hub employing more than 1,000 people who looked after more than 100 passing trains every day. The old depot and workshop in Steamtown Peterborough, South Australia is now home to Australia’s most unique and fascinating Heritage Railway museum. You can enjoy personally guided tours daily between 9.00am and 5.00pm for around one and a half hours when you’ll be transported back in time to the glamorous 1920’s when train travel was the most elegant way to get around. As you sink into the warmth of the red leather armchairs of a First Class Lounge car, sipping a long, cool drink and being entertained by the on board pianist, you will experience an amazing insight into historic locomotives and carriages. When the sun starts to sink over Peterborough the Sound and Light Show begins and lights up the night sky at the Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre! For over an hour, you can sit comfortably in a restored 1916 historic railway carriage and travel through the tunnels of time. Pre-bookings for the night tour are essential as starting times depend upon the time of year. Groups booking a Guided Day Tour and the Sound and Light Show receive a 10% discount. Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre will help you relive a full rail experience. 1 Telford Ave, Peterborough SA 5422 manager@steamtown.com.au

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Ph: 08 8651 3355 www.steamtown.com.au

Experiences

Bendleby R anges

Whether you love camping, bushwalking, 4wding, or if you just generally love the outback, Bendleby Ranges is an ideal holiday location for you and your loved one, family or friends. Located in the Flinders Ranges, Bendleby Ranges is a working station and is a combination of two adjoining properties ‘Springs’ and ‘Gumdale’ totalling 15,000 hectare. Beautiful creeks, valleys, ranges and shimmering plains are just some of the features that make this an ideal escape. You might like to hike the walking trails or you may prefer to take exhilarating drives over two rugged mountain ranges with spectacular views towards Lake Frome, Wilpena Pound and the surrounding country side. With quality, affordable accommodation as well as private and group campsites nestled amongst the native pine & gum tree lined creeks, your biggest decision will be, “how long to stay”. Just over three hours drive from Adelaide or a short fly-in, Bendleby Ranges caters for small and large groups. Bring your kids, parents, grandparents, friends, bikes – even your workmates, social group or class at school! – for a holiday that gives you the chance to truly experience outback Australia and offers more than just a lot of fun. Enjoy a bushwalk through the native flora and fauna; take the 4wd out on one of the many tracks – keeping you busy for days; cycle or just relax. No matter what your choice Bendleby Ranges is the perfect opportunity to experience the Southern Flinders Ranges at its best. Bendleby via Orroroo SA 5431 bendleby@bigpond.com

Ph: 08 8658 9064 www.bendlebyranges.com.au

Peterborough Tourism Whether you are a railway buff, a history fanatic or if you just enjoy visiting new and interesting places, Peterborough in the Flinders Ranges is an ideal destination for all the family. Located around 3 hours from Adelaide, Peterborough sits on the intersection of the East-West railway linking Port Pirie and Broken Hill, and was settled to service the agricultural and pastoral endeavours of the 1870s. Peterborough played a major part in the movement of the troops during the Second World War with troop trains moving north, south, east and west and it is one of only two railheads in the world where three lines of different gauges once met. Although the railways have left the town, the era has been preserved through displays at the Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre, which conducts daily continuously guided tours (9-5) and every night presents South Australia’s first and only Sound & Light Show (bookings essential).

Image courtesy of Tourism SA

Winner of many awards in the KESAB Tidy Towns Competition, Peterborough is home to a variety of fascinating and inspiring attraction: a unique Motorbike Museum, Meldonfield’s Miniature displays now housed in the historic YMCA Building, the Greg Duggan Nature Reserve, Dragons Rest Habitat Garden and Victoria Park and soon the historic Print-shop will be open to the public. A walk through the town will provide you with a glimpse into an interesting past, with a host of historical buildings and sites in the vicinity of the Main Street. Visit the 20 metre mural, The Burg, the popular Steamtown Heritage Rail Centre, or take a self-drive tour through the stunning region. The town is increasingly popular, with a variety of picnic spots, lookouts, lakes and unuasual museums; and with a range of other exciting destinations within arms’ reach, you will want to ensure Peterborough is on your next holiday itinerary. Main St, Peterborough SA 5422 enquiries@peterboroughsa.com.au

Ph: 08 8651 2708 www.peterboroughsa.com.au

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Northern Territory

Lose yourself in rugged beauty

by Tara Downey

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It was not until the 17th Century that the land here was first seen by Europeans, with the first settlement not created until Port Darwin was established in 1869. Containing some of the most recognisable natural icons in Australia, the territory is abounding with historical sites, natural wonders and unique flora and fauna. With hundreds of rare species of flora and native wildlife, as well as its’ 52 national parks and nature conservation reserves, visiting here is like a trip to another world and it is a holiday destination that is not to be missed. This is the outback. This is the true Australia. Most travellers will fly into Darwin, or perhaps drive here from Western Australia, South Australia or Queensland, all of which have direct routes to the city. Darwin is abundant with food and culture. Sail the harbour at sunset soaking up the warm weather, take a crocodile cruise along the Adelaide River, visit one of the forests or national parks in the area or spend a day on the nearby traditional Tiwi Islands. From Darwin, you might want to head to the world heritage listed Kakadu National Park, the largest national park in Australia and home to lush rainforest and rock art galleries dating back more than 40,000 years. At almost 20,000 square kilometres, it is one of the most biologically, ecologically and geolocially diverse regions on the planet. Learn about Aboriginal culture from the traditional owners - the Bininj/

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Images Courtesy of Tourism NT

rom the vast Red Centre and bountiful mountain ranges to the tropical wetlands and pristine coastline, it’s easy to lose yourself in the beauty that is the Northern Territory. Life in the Northern Territory began more than 40,000 years ago when Aboriginals settled in the region.

Mungguy people and visit the 500 kilometre Arnhem Land, which extends from Kakadu to Port Roper on the Gulf of Carpentaria and around the coast to the East Alligator River. Experience the six seasons of Kakadu - from monsoons and violent thunderstorms, to morning mists and the “dry” season, the months where life seems to pause to the increased heat; an astounding place to visit all year round. Katharine is the place where the tropics meet the outback. It extends from the Gulf of Carpentaria near the Queensland border, towards the Kimberley in the west. The town itself is the fourth largest in the Territory and is a great base if you want to explore the region in detail – an experience that is guaranteed to impress. From the Katherine Gorge & Nitmiluk National Park, the Elsey or the Judbarra/ Gregory National Parks, to the Gulf Region, Daly River and Mataranka, you will be spoilt for choice in this stunning region of springs, waterfalls, adventure tours and ancient culture. Surrounded by a red sand desert, the thriving centre of Alice Springs holds stories of Australia’s past, from the Aboriginals that inhabited the area many thousands of years ago, to the gold diggers and outback pioneers who played a hand in making it what it is today. An area of traditional art and natural wonders, “the Alice” is surrounded by beauty and is also the gateway to one of the most famous places in Australia. The one thing that you simply cannot miss with a trip to the Northern Territory is a visit to the world famous Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park – the home of Ayers Rock. This is the heart of the Northern Territory and is best seen from the skies, from the walking track at its base or you might like to try a more unconventional method of touring, atop a camel’s back. The 32 weathered rock domes knows as The Olgas (Kata Tjuta) are also a magnificent sight, and Watarrka National Park – the home of Kings Canyon, will astound you as you marvel upon its red rock faces which soar above the dense forest. And it’s not just the scenery here that makes the Northern Territory such a popular tourist destination. Everywhere you go you will be greeted by the friendly faces of the locals, whether they are sitting next to a corner store, serving you as you stock up on petrol, or showing you the sights first hand, you are sure to win a smile. With everything from adventure travel and driving holidays to cultural and guided tours, a romantic weekend away or a festival celebration, there are so many remarkable places to visit in the Northern Territory that time will seem to escape without realising it.

LASSETERS HOTEL CASINO Located at the foot of the MacDonnell Ranges, backing onto the Alice Springs Golf Course, Lasseters offers 205 spacious rooms and suites all with a private balcony or courtyard showcasing magnificent views. With three restaurants, two bars, a sports lounge, a nightclub, heated pool and spa and an international standard casino, Lasseters is the centre of entertainment in Alice Springs. Currently undergoing an exciting $35 million dollar development, the fantastic new Premium rooms are a must if you want to relax in style while experiencing the picturesque sunset views of Alice Springs. These rooms feature stunning contemporary décor, unique artwork by local indigenous artists and amazing views of the MacDonnell Ranges, Alice Springs Golf Course or the new resort pool.

sporting event from around the world. While you are staying at Lasseters, you might like to check out the complimentary Gym or hire a bicycle to get you around the town. If golf is your game, Lasseters is right next to the Alice Springs Golf Club and offers discounted rates. And you certainly won’t want to miss the opportunity to play a hand in the Casino itself! Lasseters is home to an international standard Casino. You can enjoy a variety of table games including American Roulette and Blackjack. The 300 slot machines rangie from old favourites to state-of-theart new games. Mid 2013 will see the addition of a VIP Gaming Room and contemporary Australian restaurant.

If you are feeling hungry, Lasseters Hotel Casino has a dining destination waiting to satisfy your taste buds! You can find contemporary delights for breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks at the Juicy Rump, fine dining Asianfusion cuisine at Sukra or casual café-style cuisine at Casbah. Lasseters has the perfect venue and catering option to make your next event special.

Are you on a business trip? The air-conditioned Burgundy Room will meet your needs with an office that has all the standard office machinery you need and free WiFi. Lasseters Hotel Casino was winner of the 2011 NT Brolga Best Deluxe Accommodation Award and Chairman’s Award for Excellence and was awarded Highly Commended for 2012. They are proud to participate in the Australian Tourism Accreditation Program, meeting Australian Tourism Accreditation Standards and criteria.

If you are into sport, located in the Sports Lounge are 13 screens that are perfect for watching your favourite

93 Barrett Drive, Alice Springs, 0870 NT www.lhc.com.au

GLEN HELEN RESORT Situated at the Western end of the spectacular West MacDonnell Ranges, Glen Helen Resort is the climax to an adventurous and colourful drive. At Glen Helen, good old-fashioned Australian hospitality ensures you can look forward to a warm welcome. The Glen Helen Homestead captures the authentic Outback style. A one-night stay at Glen Helen is never long enough. This restored and enlarged Station Homestead has a charming ambience. Glen Helen Resort offers many experiences for the visitor. Relax and enjoy comfortable Motel Accommodation, powered sites or “rough it” under the stars in well-maintained campgrounds. Glen Helen has a long history as a popular tourist location and has the feel of an Outback Lodge. The compact non-smoking motel rooms offer full linen and towels, ensuite bathrooms and modern reverse cycle air conditioning. Glen Helen takes its charm from its traditional bush welcome and atmosphere. The view of stunning cliffs and riverbed is dominating and impressive as guests relax outdoors on the back veranda or sit in more comfort in the lounge area. Guests are often lucky enough to see much of the wildlife including many bird species, rock wallabies, dingoes and lizards. If you love to star gaze Glen Helen Resort is the perfect place to do it. In winter,

relax in front of a cosy open fireplace and in summer laze by the swimming pool or take a ten-minute leisurely walk to the Glen Helen Gorge waterhole. At the end of the day enjoy a cold beer at the bar before dining in the renowned Namatjira Restaurant. Glen Helen is thrilled to announce that the Restaurant has been awarded two coveted Gold Plate Awards for Excellence in Dining for 2012. For a dining experience in a Station Homestead style environment make sure you book for the Namatjira Gallery Restaurant tastefully decorated with prints of Albert Namatjira’s famous paintings. Guests are treated to open log fires that send the light flickering across the timber roof and painted mud brick walls. Glen Helen Resort takes you to places in the North where you can capture the essence of the Australian bush. West MacDonnell Ranges, Via Alice Springs NT 0870 Ph: 08 8956 7489 res@glenhelen.com.au www.glenhelen.com.au

Northern Territory

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From enchanting forests to cool waterholes, the enticing harbour to entertaining festivals, from a step back through history to gorgeous river cruises – the city of Darwin in the Top End is a dynamic and fascinating place to visit. In short, Darwin has it all. The city is located on the edge of a harbour and is widely known for its friendly laid-back lifestyle. First named in 1839 by John Stokes, it was named after famous naturalist Charles Darwin. The city developed through the discovery of gold in 1871 around 200 kilometres from the city, at Pine Creek. Once the gold rush was over, the region’s growth slowed until it became a base for Allied action against the Japanese during World War Two. Darwin became well known in February 1942, when Japanese planes made two major air raids, the first of 64 air attacks experienced by the city during the war. But the city picked itself up again, only to see devastation once more when much of it was destroyed by Cyclone Tracy in 1974. Since then, Darwin was rebuilt and today it is one of Australia’s most cosmopolitan cities and is popular with international tourists and locals alike. The city is home to a great number of attractions, and is the gateway to some of Australia’s best known natural wonders, all within driving distance, including Kakadu, Katherine Gorge and Litchfield. It is a fascinating destination and you will be astounded by the beauty you find here. The city is alive with multiculturalism and you will find an abundance of international and common cafes, restaurants and casual dining, and accommodation to suit every budget. Take a river cruise at sunset, and if you’re a lover of good multicultural food, take a walk through the weekend morning markets at any time of the year or the Mindil Beach Sunset Markets

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Images Courtesy of Tourism NT

Darwin

between May to October. The markets have an abundance of stalls with everything from international cuisine, to arts and crafts; while street theatre performers, magicians, musicians and buskers entertain. For another way to experience the city’s energy you can visit one of the many festivals celebrated throughout the region. You will be overwhelmed with craft fairs and markets, balls and spectaculars, from picnic days, fishing competitions and fun runs, to football, V8s and motorbikes; and if you’re in the area in July, you won’t want to miss the Beer Can Regatta – an annual event that was started in 1974 and sees participants create boats from empty beer cans, soft drink cans and bottles and milk cartons. Art lovers will thrive in Darwin with galleries and exhibitions throughout the city. You will not only be able to visit the prize-winning public art gallery, but take a walk through some of the streets here and you will also encounter some smaller contemporary and indigenous galleries – where you might even have the opportunity to spend some time talking to the artists themselves to find out their inspiration behind their works. Take yourself and your loved one to catch a movie under the stars at the Deckchair Cinema or for a sunset dinner cruise on board a luxury yacht. Romance abounds and the fun never ends at the Top End. Just a short distance away, national parks offer a range of walking trails where you can experience flora, fauna and Aboriginal culture at its best. You might spend a few hours exploring, or you might decide to trek for a few days. The most popular walking tracks are at Litchfield National Park, including the 3.5 kilometre trail along pretty Walker Creek and the treacherous Tabletop Track – 39 kilometres of woodlands, termite mounds, rock formations, waterfalls and swimming holes. Head to the Mary River National Park and spend some time on the trails passing though the monsoon forests and billabongs; or enjoy a cultural walk at the Tiwi Islands, just north of the city. You might also like to step back into prehistoric time and take a cruise along the coastal fringe and rivers, on the hunt for crocodiles. The region is home to two kinds of crocodiles, including the relatively harmless freshwater and the more aggressive saltwater crocs, measuring up to 5 metres in length and weighing up to 500 kilograms. If you’ve never seen a crocodile, this is the experience of a lifetime. Just be warned, “never smile at a crocodile”. Darwin’s predictable temperatures and modern atmosphere make it an ideal holiday destination for your entire family. No matter the season, just make sure you take your swimmers and a hat!

ARGUS APARTMENTS DARWIN When you look for accommodation, you generally want three things – value for money, luxury and a great location. Argus Apartments in Darwin has all of these, and much more! Located in the heart of Darwin, Argus Apartments provide 4.5 Star hotel style service in spacious, selfcontained rooms which are perfect for a family holiday, or a romantic getaway. You’ll be spoilt for choice on activities and adventures and just a short walk through the CBD, you will have a great selection of fashion retail shops and gourmet restaurants and cafes to choose from. Argus is also centrally located to the beaches, nature parks, art galleries, water sports, casino and a vibrant nightlife and day tours to Kakadu, Katherine Gorge, Litchfield National Park will pick you up at reception. The staff at Argus are friendly, professional and attentive and will do what they can to ensure your holiday is the best it can be. If you are unsure of where to spend your days, the helpful staff will be happy to provide suggestions. At Argust Apartments, nothing is “too much trouble”. From car parking onsite, 24 hour front desk and gym/ fitness room, to an undercover pool, BBQ area and

luggage room, your stay here will be a holiday, even if you never leave the building! The apartments themselves are spacious and provide everything you could need, including a full kitchen, large freezer/fridge, dishwasher and oven, laundry room, LCD television with free Austar, a dining area, balcony with outdoor seating, bathroom amenities and tea and coffee, just to name a few. Why would you want to squeeze into a hotel room when you can sit back and relax in a roomy fully self-contained apartment? Argus offers 58 modern apartments for all types of guest and you can choose between 1, 2, 3 bedroom Configurations; or if you want to try something really special, you can book one of the double storey penthouses. So sit back on the veranda, look out over the views of Darwin or enjoy a cooling off in the swimming pool, and relax while the staff at Argus Apartments take care of you.

6 Cardona Court, Darwin City, NT 0800 Ph: 08 8925 5000 reservations@argusdarwin.com.au www.argusdarwin.com.au

DARWIN’S PREMIER SERVICED APARTMENTS 6 Cardona Court, Darwin City, Northern Territory 0800 | P: 08 8925 5000 reservations@argusdarwin.com.au | www.argusdarwin.com.au

• 4.5 Star Luxury • Hotel Facilities • Centrally Located

DARWIN RACING For over 50 years the Darwin Turf Club has been home to Darwin’s most iconic sporting event, the Carlton Mid Darwin Cup Carnival as well as other events. The vibrant and exciting image of Darwin Racing epitomises the social scene of the Top End. The track is located in Fannie Bay, 5km from the CBD, the Darwin Convention Centre and Darwin Waterfront Precinct, offering convenient free parking and ample room for coaches to drop off or park. We invite you to venture north and escape the cold for one of Australia’s most celebrated and anticipated races, the Carlton Mid Darwin Cup Carnival which is held over eight days in July and August each year. Join thousands of locals proudly showcasing their ‘territory’ style for this cosmopolitan carnival, while taking in the cultural and culinary delights of Darwin. The fashions, the glamour and the amazing atmosphere will capture your imagination. It is not just about horse racing, the month-long carnival is filled with social events, including the largest outdoor gala event in the Southern Hemisphere, the Qantas Darwin Turf Club Gala Ball.

Join us in 2013 for the 57th Carlton Mid Darwin Cup Carnival Day 1 - Saturday 6 July - HOT 100 Darwin Guineas Day Day 2 - Saturday 13 July - Trans Territory Food Chief Minister’s Cup Day Day 3 - Wednesday 17 July - Bridge Toyota Ladies Day Day 4 - Saturday 20 July - SKYCITY NT Derby Day Day 5 - Saturday 27 July - Sky Racing Metric Mile Day Day 6 - Wednesday 31 July - Colemans Printing Race Day Day 7 - Saturday 3 August - bet365 Palmerston Sprint Day Day 8 - Monday 5 August - Carlton Mid Darwin Cup Day With over 20,000 people on course the Carlton Mid Darwin Cup is without doubt the jewel in the crown for Territory Racing. The experience of this Carnival will live long in the memory of all those present. For those not travelling in July or August you won’t miss the chance to catch all the action on and off the track with the 41 scheduled local Darwin race meetings a year.

Fannie Bay Northern Territory 0820 08 8923 4222 dtc@darwinturfclub.org.au www.darwinturfclub.org.au

Darwin Racing

Who needs a royal wedding to wear a hat? You are cordially invited to wear yours at the

2013 Carlton Mid Darwin Cup Carnival 6 July to 5 August

Darwin Turf Club, Dick Ward Drive, Fannie Bay Northern Territory 0820 www.facebook.com/darwinturfclub 08 8923 4222 | dtc@darwinturfclub.org.au | www.darwinturfclub.org.au

NORTHERN TERRITORY INDIGENOUS TOURS There are two sides to Darwin and its environs – that seen through the eyes of its recent European and Asian arrivals, and more importantly, that seen through the eyes of those who’ve lived in and shaped these spectacular landscapes for a thousand generations. Northern Territory Indigenous Tours, a 100% Indigenousowned company, offers glimpses into the ancient side of the Northern Territory’s Top End. On its luxury, microgroup day tours and multi-day charters to Litchfield National Park and beyond, guests are treated to natural and cultural interpretation from an Aboriginal viewpoint, connecting through traditional foods, short walks and swims in clear, spring-fed creeks. Being owned and operated primarily by Aboriginal women, they are ideal women’s tours, though men are, of course, welcome. You’ll experience beautiful, pristine landscapes, pioneer heritage and a rich Aboriginal tradition. Litchfield National Park’s Tabletop Range, formed of ancient sandstone, weathered and eroded for millennia to form deep gorges protecting ancient rainforest, is an inspiring place to visit. You’ll be exclusive visitors to heritage places associated with the guides’ families. You’ll travel rugged tracks in four-wheel drive vehicles that take you to places that buses can’t reach.

For private charters, Northern Territory Indigenous Tours can develop personalised itineraries and arrange the best accommodation for you. Explore the Daly River region, famous for fishing and camping, hot springs and gorges; Kakadu National Park, one of the largest and most iconic national parks in the world; and Nitmiluk National Park, where the Katherine River has carved a series of deep and spectacular gorges through 1800 million year old sandstone. Or if you only have a morning, get sound advice on an Indigenous Art Tour in Darwin. With Northern Territory Indigenous Tours you’ll be safe and comfortable in air-conditioned LandCruiser fourwheel drive vehicles. You’ll have personalised access to your Aboriginal guide in groups of up to 6 adults. You’ll taste bush fruits in season and dine on wildcaught barramundi, crocodile and kangaroo. There is so much to see, do and understand in the Top End. Learn the real story from the people who have shaped the area for a thousand generations. Howard Springs NT 0835 Ph: 1300 92 11 88 www.ntitours.com.au

Learn The Real Story Luxury Cultural Tours 100% Indigenous Owned

Personalised Micro-group Tours On Traditional Country Luxury Packages, Sunset Cruises, Helicopter Tours Northern Territory Indigenous Tours, PO Box 1268 Howard Springs NT 0835 Phone: 1300 92 11 88 | +61(0)8 8983 1434 | +61(0)421 101 912 E-mail ID: info@ntitours.com.au, Website: www.ntitours.com.au

SKYTOUR AIR SAFARIS For a world-class iconic experience in Australia’s timeless north, flying across some of the spectacular scenery of the Northern Territory may just be the most exhilarating holiday to remember. Skytour Air Safaris are ideal for time-poor adventurers and feature the great northern destinations and unspoilt beauty of the Northern Territory’s Top End, Kakadu National Park and Western Australia’s Kimberley region. Australia’s North offers amazing Outback experiences in the world heritage listed Kakadu, the wetlands of the Mary River National Park, or the dramatic and ancient landscapes of the Kimberley; with its incredible colours and endless horizons. All of the itineraries depart from Australia’s tropical city Darwin, a city with the world-class wilderness on its doorstep. Discover a spectacular tapestry of wetlands, pristine coasts & beaches, rusty red sunsets, rugged landscapes, unique wildlife, authentic cultural encounters and the character of the outback. Immerse with Arnhemland’s Aboriginal culture; one of the oldest living cultures in the world or have a hands on cattle station experience. Because of the shelter afforded in caves and under overhangs in the sandstone country, and the easily obtained food both fauna and flora found seasonally in

the differing eco systems, aboriginal persons have made Kakadu their home for perhaps 50,000 years. Arnhem Land is aboriginal land, declared as an aboriginal reserve in 1931, perhaps best known for its isolation, the art of its people, and the strong continuing traditions of its indigenous inhabitants. At 98000 sq kilometres, it is massive yet has a population of only 16500 persons and is sufficiently large enough to host an ocean coastline, inland a massive sandstone plateau that is completely isolated from similar geographic structures and complete river systems, and a climate that varies as you move from the northern coastal boundary. Visitors are welcome only on permit. Enjoy a surreal experience exploring superb aboriginal art, found under overhangs and in caves and if this is not enough the landscape comprises idyllic billabongs, flood plains, swamps & monsoonal forest, all teeming with wildlife. The Northern Territory is an amazing remote wilderness waiting for you to explore by air. Freecall: 1800 089 113 info@kakadutours.com.au www.skytour.net.au

Northern Territory Walking and Hiking See. Touch. Discover. The Northern Territory has everything you could want in an Australian holiday and one of the best ways to see this stunning landscape, is by taking one of the many walks or hikes throughout the State. You will not be disappointed as you step onto the soil for a 30 minute nature walk – or a week long trek that will take you to some of the world’s most amazing natural attractions, seemingly untouched. In the north, the World Heritage Listed Kakadu National Park alone has 25 walking trails. Located in the Alligator Rivers region of the State, it covers almost 20,000 square kilometres. Trek into a world like no other, with estuaries and tidal flats, floodplains, outliers, hills and basins, the stone country and lowlands; and breathe in nature at its best with thousands of different plant and animal varieties. Take a moment here to appreciate the aboriginal history, dating back 20,000 to 40,000 years. Also in the north are the Litchfield and Nitmiluk national parks, with a range of walks taking you to explore a vast range of waterfalls, termite mounds, swamps, mines and much more. Don’t miss a visit to Arnhem Land, with a range of walks to choose from; the MacDonnell Ranges, where you can take the full – or part of the – 223km bushwalking track – voted as one of the world’s Top 20 Treks by National Geographic; and no trek through to the Northern Territory would be complete without completing the most famous walk in the country – the 9.4km base walk around Uluru at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park.

Self drive There are so many things to see and do in the Northern Territory, but no better way to experience as much as possible than taking yourself on a tour throughout this amazing State. Self drive touring is increasingly popular. Create your own tour, or follow one of the many available. Creating your own provides a unique experience. Unlike other tours, you’re not limited to where you can go or when you should get there. If you decide one day it’s just too hot to walk around Uluru and would instead prefer to spend your day swimming in one of the many lakes – you can. And you don’t have to ask anyone else’s permission (except maybe your partners). There are also many guided self-drive tours in the State, providing you knowledge, history and quality safety control, but giving you the freedom to enjoy the trip with your family or friends in the comfort of your own vehicle. The highways in the State are sealed, with easy access to almost 100 tourist spots along the way. You might like to choose a longer journey, such as The Explorer’s Way where you can follow a trail blazed in the 1860s for the Overland Telegraph, past natural attractions, towns, outback pubs, and unusual roadhouses. Or you may prefer to try a shorter drive through the Alice Springs’ wilderness. You can grab petrol every couple of hundred kilometres and be sure to stock up in case you decide to go off the main roads (suitable for 4WDs)! So grab yourself an air conditioned car or 4WD and lead the way through lush tropics, desert, towns and cities and explore this amazing landscape.

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Explorers way

Highlights

An ever popular trip through the Northern Territory is The Explorer’s Way – a 3,245 kilometre North to South route that follows the path of explorer John McDouall Stuart who was the first person to make the trip in 1862. Stretching from Darwin right down to Adelaide in South Australia, the trail was blazed for the Overland Telegraph – a telegraph line connecting Darwin to Port Augusta that was completed in 1872. You can start your trip in the South, or head on down from Darwin, viewing many of the wondrous sights the Northern Territory has to offer. A drive along Explorer’s Way will take you past ancient landscapes where Aborigines have lived for tens of thousands of years. Watch in awe as kangaroos hop alongside your vehicle and you experience the “real Australia” – a world like you would never see anywhere else. Watch and appreciate as the landscape turns into a sea of colours, textures and fragrances; see the amazing termite mounds that dot the State, wonder at the rainforests and waterfalls and embrace the abundant flora and fauna as you truly experience the centre of Australia. You might even get to take part in some local events along the way, such as the annual Finke Desert Race, the Camel Cup Carnival or the Darwin Festival. The Explorer’s Way is an encounter through the Red Centre that you will want on your bucket list.

Rock Art The Northern Territory is rife with Aboriginal rock art, depicting an engaging history of life in the State and dating back tens of thousands of years. From X-ray art to hand prints, to paintings of animals, hunters and even Dreamtime spirits, there are thousands of stencils, drawings and etchings representing Australia’s colourful past. Rock art galleries, generally found in caves and on overhangs that are protected from the elements, tell a fascinating story about the creation of life according to the Aboriginal culture and many sites even offer signage to tell these stories to visitors. The rich natural colours and often strange depictions of life many thousands of years ago provide an intriguing insight into the Dreamtime and the cultural heritage and a great legacy of the history of the Aboriginal people. Rock art is particularly prevalent around the Kakadu and Arnhem Land regions of the State – with Ubirr and Nourlangi Rock the two best known, both easily accessible. These even include the well known depictions of the Rainbow Serpent and the Lightning Man. In the East MacDonnell Ranges and West MacDonnell Ranges, there are also a number of art sites to visit, and the N’Dhala Gorge contains more than 6,000 ancient carvings alongside art sites. Take a deep breath as you wander through these fascinating areas rich with cultural history and know that archaeologists recently dated Northern Territory rock art as 28,000 years old, making it the oldest in Australia! You won’t want to miss this amazing cultural experience.

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Northern Territory by Air

Imagine conquering the tyranny of distance with your own private aircraft. Sounds unrealistic? It’s not! While planning a recent trip to the Northern Territory, I was trying to decide if I wanted to do a group tour, driving through the state to all the fabulous destinations I longed to see with a group of people and a well organised guide, or whether I should drive myself around myself, which is always a great way to spend a holiday – a relaxing environment where I can do what I what, when I want. But then, I came across something completely different... and I thought the opportunity in front of me was far too great to pass up. The budget allowed it, so why not treat myself? That was the turning point of my decision to ditch the buses and cars – and FLY over the Northern Territory! So in January I booked a trip which would take me to some of the popular destinations, as well providing me with a variety of other experiences, then I waited a few months until May before packing my bags and off I went to Sydney to start my journey – a 12 Day Great Australian Aircruise! The tour included Queensland and Western Australia, but the majority would be spent in the Northern Territory, and I figured it certainly wouldn’t hurt to see a bit more of the country while I was at it! I arrived at the airport in Sydney where I was greeted by a specially designed private 34 seat Embraer Jet aircraft. These babies are designed to deliver maximum comfort while also ensuring an unerring sense of style - minimising the tyranny of distance, while providing commanding views of the outback, the wetlands, rainforests and untamed coastlines of Australia. I figured travelling by private aircraft, rather than by bus or car, would also provide more time to discover each destination intimately through leisurely cruises, revealing ground excursions and contact with local people. In other words, less time travelling – more time exploring! I was so excited as I boarded the plane, knowing I was off to see classic destinations like Longreach, Katherine Gorge, Kakadu National Park, Bungle Bungle National Park, the Kimberley and Uluru – and all of that in just 12 days. I got comfortable, then the plane soared into the air, taking us straight into the heart of the outback at Longreach in Queensland, a frontier township which takes in the true characters of the Australian outback. Looking over the mountain ranges on the way from Sydney was

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such an amazing sight and I had my camera clicking the whole time. The contrasting colours of the mountains, the farmer’s crops and all the rivers and lakes as you drive through the centre of Australia are just stunning and I knew it was only going to get better from here. Once we were in Longreach we visited the Champion family who took us to their property and shared their experiences with us – in particular what it’s like living in such harsh landscapes. It was great hearing “their story” and it gave me a new appreciation of the outback. We then went on to visit the School of the Air at Longreach and took a late afternoon tour through the Qantas Museum. It was a great start to what I knew was going to be an amazing trip! The next day we visited the famous Stockman’s Hall of Fame to capture another glimpse at Australia’s outback history, before we continued on to my ultimate destination, the Northern Territory. First stop – Katherine. Sweeping from the Gulf of Carpentaria to the West Australian border, the Katherine region is full of hidden secrets. Here we enjoyed a sunset cruise on the Katherine Gorge where we embarked on a visually contrasting cruise through two of the thirteen gorges. The area has stunning rock valleys and fascinating Aboriginal rock paintings and is dominated by the Katherine River, which in the dry season consists of quietly flowing creeks and still deep rock pools. In the “wet”, it is a totally different scene, as the river becomes a raging torrent. The water rises up to 18 metres, sweeping great boulders aside and turning the land on its banks into lakes and swamps for miles around. It is the erosive action of these great waves of water that have over millions of years carved out the sheer walls of the gorge. We watched the sun set and stared in wonder as the bush came alive with creatures of the night.

Images Courtesy of Tourism NT

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Exploring

The next morning the tour took us on an Aboriginal tour with a local Jawoyn elder. The Jawoyn’s are the traditional owners of the gorge and we got to hear some fascinating stories about their culture and the dreamtime. In the afternoon we drove to the World Heritage Kakadu National Park, the heart of the wetlands wilderness. Kakadu is rich in Aboriginal history with the Aboriginal people having occupied the area continuously for at least 40 000 years. It is renowned for the richness of its Aboriginal cultural sites and there are more than 5000 recorded art sites illustrating Aboriginal culture over thousands of years. We took a cruise here along the Yellow Waters Lagoon in Kakadu, which is one of the richest biological areas in Australia - a fantastic adventure through a finely balanced natural ecosystem. On our fourth day, we spent some time at Ubirr Rock where we discovered ancient Aboriginal cave art ‘galleries’, with paintings dating back to prehistoric times. Located in the East Alligator region of Kakadu National Park, it consists of a group of rock outcrops on the edge of the Nadab floodplain where there are several natural shelters that have a collection of Aboriginal rock paintings. Some of these are over 20,000 years old! That afternoon, we packed up and flew in light aircraft to Darwin, where we would be spending two nights. After the previous few days it was nice to arrive in Darwin to great accommodation, a comfortable bed and some fantastic food. I knew the days ahead would be just as busy as those before, so I made sure I got plenty of rest and was ready to continue after a hearty breakfast the following morning. We spent the next day exploring Darwin by mini-coach. The city is set on one of Australia’s natural harbours, opening out onto the brilliant, jewel-like waters of the Arafura Sea. This is a vibrant, tropical city whose free-spirited, openair lifestyle is blessed with a range of waterfront delights. We learnt about the history of Darwin, including its well known past from February 1942, when Japanese planes made two major air raids, the first of 64 air attacks experienced by the city during World War Two. We also learnt about the effect Cyclone Tracey had on the city when it hit on Christmas Day 1974. After the disaster the population fell from 47,000 to 12,000 and many did not return. It was great to see that after such devastation, the city now thrives as both an administrative and commercial centre for Northern Australia. In the evening we took a sunset cruise in Darwin Harbour aboard Streeter Pearl Lugger which was a wonderfully relaxing

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experience taking in the breathtaking sights of the harbour at sunset. With our exploration of Darwin complete, we boarded the plane for Western Australia and some spectacular aerial sightseeing over Lake Argyle and the Bungle Bungle Range, in Purnululu National Park. We were on the lookout for the tiger-striped, beehive shaped domes and they didn’t fail to impress. On arrival in Kununurra we took on a boat ride up the Ord River which took us through the inspiring scenery of the Kimberley region. The cruise took us to the impressive Dam Wall, which holds back the waters of Lake Argyle, and we then went on to visit the historic Argyle Homestead, home of the famous pioneering family, the Duracks. The next morning we boarded the plane again for some more spectacular views from the sky. This time we flew over and admired the far northwest coastline and the Buccaneer Archipelago. This is a remote part of Australia that is rarely seen because it is extremely difficult to access from the ground, so we were extremely privileged to be flying over it. We arrived at the historic pearling port of Broome where we had the chance to explore. I spent some of the morning here relaxing and getting a massage and facial at the resort – well, I figured after the previous few days full of activity – why not treat myself even more!! Afterwards a shuttle bus took me into town and while I was tempted to spend all my money on shopping, I decided to take a walk through the town and explore. At lunch I went to the famous white sandy Cable Beach, on the shores of Roebuck Bay. Its’ beautiful white sandy beaches have made it a popular holiday destination in recent years.

Images Courtesy of Tourism NT

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COODARDIE STATION STAY Coodardie Station Stay offers an enjoyable, friendly and relaxed balance of comfort and style set in native savannah woodlands. Coodardie Station is a 2,080 ha freehold property ten kilometres outside Mataranka in the Northern Territory. It’s the home base for the O’Brien Family, stud depot of Coodardie Brahmans and is a “works in progress” cattle property. Your hosts, Mike and Clair O’Brien and family offer a wealth of knowledge of North Australia. They are passionate about the ecologically sustainable development of the land and sharing this enthusiasm and knowledge with others. The homestead is an impressive piece of architecture, superbly suited to the outback environment. The all-round verandas invite you to relax and enjoy the surrounds; view the birds, cattle and sunsets from its comfort. The unique rotunda guest rooms offer an un-adulterated view of the natural bush with a 180-degree view from your bed! Each guest room offers its own spacious ensuite bathroom and private access to the veranda. A specialised and exclusive stay is ensured with a maximum of two couples/ family at any one time. With polished timber floors throughout, the homestead is also wheelchair friendly. Fully hosted, wholesome family meals utilizing local produce as available are included. You will receive one-on-one time and attention from your hosts. All stays are pre-booked and numbers are

minimum and select. Because each stay is unique, it is personally packaged and catered to meet your interests, requirements, options and prices. Family stays, corporate guests, film crews, romantic get-aways and training programs have all successfully enjoyed the hospitality and facilities of Coodardie. Coodardie Station Stay offers an enjoyable, friendly and relaxed balance of comfort and style set in native savannah woodlands. The environmentally sustainable property offers significant areas of enjoyment itself. Take a tour of the property to get first hand understanding of how the property operates as well as visit nearby Elsey National Park. Coodardie Station is an accredited Tourism Business, as featured in ‘Beautiful Accommodation’ magazine and with comfortable family accommodation, delicious meals and friendly hospitality the O’Brien family guarantee your Station Stay will be a real Aussie outback holiday experience - living with the environment, not against it.

Mataranka, NT Australia 0852 Ph: 08 8975 4460 clair@coodardie.com.au www.coodardie.com.au

COOLIBAH AIR HELICOPTERS The remoteness of the Northern Territory is ideal to experience in a helicopter flight from the air. The vast and formidable terrains of the Top End epitomise the description ‘Outback Australia’. It is a spiritual land with wild rivers, spectacular gorges, waterfalls and rugged sandstone escarpments. Many of the most special parts are only accessible by helicopter. Coolibah Air Scenic Adventures has helicopter bases all around the Northern Territory’s Top End and offer scenic flights and tours plus unforgettable experiences over some of the most beautiful and dramatic wilderness regions in the Top End including Victoria River Region, Nitmiluk gorge and Katherine, Cape Crawford, Adelaide and Mary River Wetlands, Litchfield National Park, Kakadu and Darwin. Choose to fly over one of Australia’s most iconic natural attractions and enjoy the stunning views of Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge, or see the spectacular Lost City at Cape Crawford near Borroloola. Experience the picturesque scenery and pristine wilderness of the Adelaide River wetlands with its abundant wildlife or the rugged grandeur of the Victoria River with its deep valleys and escarpments Be adventurous and try the adrenaline boost of a scenic helicopter ride to a remote location to fish for the monster Barramundi for which the Northern Territory is

famous. Fishing charters can be tailor-made to your requirements; we can even make a reservation with remote fishing charter operators and can transfer you there by helicopter. Take a flight over Australia’s northernmost capital Darwin, including coastal Darwin, Cullen Bay and the historic World War 11 memorials at East Point. Coolibah Air is the tourism arm of North Australian Helicopters and is named for Coolibah Station; home to ‘The Joneses’ a family who have become television stars after a reality documentary based on their life on the station called “Keeping up with the Joneses”. North Australian Helicopters has extensive experience in providing helicopters for aerial filming and photography and understand what is required to capture the perfect footage or still and your pilot will ensure the helicopter is in the right spot every time. For the ultimate Top End experience, take a helicopter flight with Coolibah Air.

Ph: 0427 432 666 reservations@coolibah-air.com.au www.coolibah-air.com.au

Memories

I grabbed myself some fish and chips from the local store and headed down to the beach to enjoy the sunshine, before taking a cruise to a local pearl farm where I was able to see firsthand how pearls are cultured. Later in the afternoon I went to Chinatown to have a look at some of the pearl showrooms, and walked through the town finding galleries where I was able to look at (and buy!) some artworks by some of the Kimberley’s most celebrated contemporary and Aboriginal artists. By day nine I was having such a fantastic time and time seemed to be going slow enough for me to truly enjoy every aspect of the tour. We left Broome in the morning and travelled over the Gibson Desert with its amazing salt lake formations – what a view! But I have to admit, today’s final destination was the reason I had been so determined to visit the Northern Territory to start with, and I couldn’t contain my excitement (or my photo taking) as we made our way to the Red Centre of Australia - site of Uluru (Ayers Rock) and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). I watched in awe as Uluru, the world’s largest monolith, appeared on the horizon. The “Red Centre” of Australia is a land of vivid colour and striking contrasts and temperatures range from extreme heat to freezing cold, while the seasons alternate between the wet and the dry, often with long periods of drought. The local guides explained some of the Aboriginal myths and legends that surround the Rock and showed us some of the sacred Aboriginal landmarks. The magnificent Uluru, with its rich red tones of bare rock and cliff faces which change colour according to light conditions and moisture, dominates the surrounding desert. We enjoyed a feast under the stars at the magnificent ‘Sounds of Silence’ dinner. Wonderfully placed between Uluru and Kata Tjuta, we experienced the subtle colour changes of the Rock at sunset and a delicious dinner of local tastes - including crocodile (yum!). Next point of call was Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), an impressive grouping of 36 conglomerate domes where the circumference of the formations is more than 22 kilometres. Kata Tjuta also has great significance as a sacred area for the local Aboriginal tribes. The last place we visited in the Northern Territory on this fantastic tour was Alice Springs, set amongst the McDonnell Ranges on the Todd River. Here we visited the Royal Flying Doctor Service, a marvellous facility providing support and health care to a vast outback region. We also enjoyed an excursion to the picturesque Standley Chasm, passing the grave of Rev.

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John Flynn, instigator of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. The walk here is optional but its only 20 minutes and the photos are well worth it! The gorge is named after Mrs Ida Standley, the first formal school teacher in Alice Springs and the first white woman to walk through the gorge. We also visited the Telegraph Station, the site of the original Repeater Station, which was for many years the sole reason for the existence of a handful of people in this remote area. It was here that a supposed spring was found in the dry riverbed. The river was named Todd after the Postmaster General, and the spring, Alice, after his wife. Last day and I must say I was disappointed to be heading home, but I’d had such an amazing experience I knew these memories (and of course, all my photos) would last me a lifetime. I couldn’t wait to show off and tell all my friends and family about the trip! We set off back to Sydney, but not before stopping in Queensland at Birdsville, home to the famous Birdsville Races. Proclaimed a town in 1887, Birdsville was established to collect tolls from the droves of cattle being moved interstate. Trust me, there is nothing else like Birdsville anywhere in the world! We feasted for lunch at the Birdsville HotelAustralia’s most remote outback pub, stopped to refuel at Bourke and then headed back home to Sydney. From the sunburnt reds to rain splattered greens, there is no doubt the 12 Day Great Australian Aircruise will be etched into my heart forever, my memories coloured by the spectacle of this great land. The Great Australian Aircruise departs between May to September 2013. Price is $14,995 per person twin share. Single Supplement $1629. There are two No Single Supplement departures. For more information go to www.billpeachjourneys.com.au or phone 1800 252 053.

Images Courtesy of Tourism NT

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Chef Q&A

Tess Atie with Tara Tyrrell

he autumn edition of Destinations includes a visit to the Northern Territory, a State that is peppered with stunning scenery and exciting tourist destinations, and rich in more than 40,000 years of Aboriginal history and culture. From its breathtaking wetlands and native wildlife to the spectacular natural rock formations and ocean views, the Northern Territory is an amazing place to visit. It is because of its unique history that we felt it was fitting to include a chat with Tess Atie, who works for Northern Territory Indigenous Tours in Howard Springs. Tess has been working for NTI Tours for three years and enjoyed a number of years working as a park ranger prior to that. She cooks up campfire meals for guests on the tours and while she won’t ever admit to being a “chef” as such, she certainly has had a colourful experience when it comes to cooking and I’m sure you will agree when I say she’s quite a character!

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Q: Where did you learn how to cook? A: I wouldn’t say I ever “learnt to cook” but I watched my family for years cooking up turtle, black bream and barramundi on a fire. Turtle is a favourite. It’s not like chicken. It’s completely organic and very healthy for you. You can even drink the juice if you are sick and it’s great! I never take salads with me when I go looking for foods. I take a fishing line and then hope for the best. I learnt that from watching my family. Q: It looks like you have cooked some very interesting animals – what would be the “strangest” thing you have ever cooked? A: Probably blue tongue lizard. The meat is white inside and it’s so delicious! Once you eat it that first time, you start craving it. My mouth is watering as we speak! I don’t do witchetty grubs though. The thought of eating them makes me feel sick. I would never feed those to anyone and when they ask me to eat one I always tell them “let’s see YOU eat one first!” Yuck!

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The smell of smoke... the sound of the crackling fire... such a variety of different people around you. It’s just really comfortable.

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Q: What is the best thing about using a bush fireplace for cooking, rather than a conventional oven? A: Where I go and do my fireplaces, it’s my home. I have my own spring there and it’s so comforting being there. In colder weather it’s nice to have a warm fire going, cooking up damper with tea and coffee. The smell of smoke... the sound of the crackling fire... such a variety of different people around you. It’s just really comfortable. I also love that when the meal is done, you can throw a few marshmallows on the fire! Q: What is the best part about cooking for tourists? A: I love talking to people from all different backgrounds and interests, but I would have to say that my favourite part about campfire cooking for tourists is watching the satisfaction of people who appreciate they have learnt something. I love being able to educate them on Aboriginal culture and knowing that information will stay with them.

Q: What is your favourite ingredient to cook with and why? A: I love using Mark Olive’s* ingredients, like his lemon myrtle. But usually, I just throw on some salt and leave it at that. It brings out the natural flavours.

Q: Is there anything you don’t like about cooking? A: Yes. I don’t like burnt tucker! People have such a romantic notion about making a fire, but the one thing I really hate about it is collecting wood. It drives me up the wall. I wish I could get to a spot and the fire has already been made for me. I also don’t like when I put the wood on my Toyota and it scratches it!

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My favourite part about campfire cooking for tourists is watching the satisfaction of people who appreciate they have learnt something.

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Q: What is the general feedback like from tourists who are with you about the different foods you provide? A: They like that they are getting a once in a lifetime experience. It’s something different for them. They like being by themselves with me, in the beautiful spring area, away from the crowds. They also like the close service they get on the tours with me, and seem to love the fact that I make them get in and do a bit of work as well. They really seem to enjoy that. I think what they love the most though is that I have a sweet tooth and always take along things like strawberries and cherries with chocolate dipping sauce! They aren’t too keen on the dirt, ashes and grass that I use in cooking though, but they eventually understand its’ all part of the cooking process. ‘Images © Tourism Australia/James Fisher’. * Mark Olive is a chef who runs Black Olive Catering, an indigenous catering company in Victoria and had his own television series The Outback Cafe

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Adventure Tourism

Definition of Adventure Tourism

by Kristan Fischer

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A typical definition of Adventure Tourism is where tourists are able to interact with the natural environment of their destination. It is a means of exploring a new and wondrous region by unconventional methods by today’s standards; but to me, tourism becomes Adventure Tourism when I start having more people than not asking me if I’m a nutcase for trying to undertake the latest challenge. Adventure Tourism has spawned to light some of the quirkiest and strangest escapades in the last decade. You could find yourself in a flat out balls-to-the-saddle horse race for 1,000km across Mongolia, Riding a motorbike with a sofa welded on for 2700km over the Andes or driving a Rickshaw for thousands of kilometres through remote regions of South East Asia. In Australia we are lucky enough to have a plethora of rich and undiscovered marvels. Mer Island (made famous by Bear Grylls) is located on the very Northern tip of the Great Barrier Reef and is home to the most picturesque and lively reef Australian territory has to offer. Sitting on the coastal beach of the island, it’s not even five minutes before 3 black tip reef sharks (all over 2 metres in length) have completely beached themselves in a frenzy for sardines before wiggling their way back to the water’s edge. It is at this very same beach where the locals like to play (and invite the courageous visitor) “catch the shark”. Islander children as young as four will run in the shallow waters grabbing at tails of the much larger sharks.

Few people know the magic of phosphorescent plankton and the stunning natural visuals that can be found. Diving in many of Australia’s coastal regions such as Kangaroo Island in SA, Coffs Harbour in NSW and Rottnest Island in WA on a moonless night, one can experience the magic unfold. Imagine feathers of electric blue pixie dust emanating from all dynamic movement and you haven’t even scratched the surface of experiencing this amazing phenomenon. These types of experiences bring a whole other degree of freedom to the tourism arena. It is a means of experiencing an environ in a new and unique light that would have otherwise been completely inaccessible. There are growing numbers of people all over the world undertaking such adventures and they are becoming more bizarre and outrageous with every passing year. The possibilities for adventure tourism truly are endless and are often piggybacked upon the inspiration of the crazier individuals among us. This industry is being driven by a thirst from the consumer for something different; a unique experience that will set apart those memories from days past. Many tourists are no longer content to simply lounge by a pool in the same 5 star resort the world over. Adventure tourism is all about providing a growing experience for the individual, a chance to come back a different person to when you left, to learn something new about yourself and of course a chance to do something worth a few bragging rights over some Schooners back home! Adventure Tourism is not just about the individual though. A well known fact about any kind of tourism is that the local industries are boosted with a new source of income and employment opportunity increase. But the lesser known impacts more specific to adventure tourism involves the regular charity biassociations. Many of the rallies and races that were mentioned earlier are all charity based. One such company that I was associated with raised over 3.7 million GBP (5.6 million AUD) for third world charities throughout the world in just eight years of adventuring. What better way could there be to spend your time? Travel to a new and exotic location, undertake activities that push you emotionally and physically outside your comfort zone, experience a wealth of spiritually rewarding experiences, grow and develop within yourself and all the while helping to support the local culture. Anyone at anytime can be involved and as cliché as it sounds, there truly is no time like the present to abscond into a new abyss of adventure. Why stall and watch life pass you by when you could be adventuring – at the end of the day; “Tomorrow never comes.”

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Image courtesy of Tourism Victoria

t’s 2am on a Tuesday morning, I’m wearing a t-shirt and jeans inside a commercial freezer and I’m Salsa dancing to keep warm in the -16.4C. It’s not the most common place you would find a local who lives on a remote tropical island – but it is a crucial part of my training for the up and coming adventure; for in one months’ time I would find myself precariously counter balancing my 70 year old Russian motorcycle and sidecar whilst sideslipping for 2000km on a frozen river in Siberia’s Arctic Circle. This is my idea of a perfect holiday.

Cape York Motor Cycle Adventures

Cape York Motor Cycle Adventures (CYMCA) is a family business operating fully guided off road tours from Cairns to the tip of the Australian continent, Cape York. The company was one of the first of its kind in Australia and has been operating for twenty-two years. The owners are proud to be a multi-award winning industry leader. You can be assured of a quality product with caring operators. The most popular ride is the 8 Day Cape York Adventure where you have two options; you can ride from Cairns to the top of the Cape and fly back, or fly to the top and ride back to Cairns. Cape York is renowned for its remoteness and the contrasts you will encounter along the way, from flora and fauna unique to the World Heritage listed Rainforests, to dusty outback trails of the region. Included in the package is two night’s accommodation camping out in the Australian bush with meals cooked in true Aussie style over an open fire. The latest addition to the adventure is the 6 Day Fish-N-Ride, where you can combine the exhilaration of riding Australia’s isolated Cape York with the fun of tempting a hungry Barramundi to attack your lure, or the line peeling adrenalin that comes from hooking a giant Queenfish or Giant Trevally. On this tour, you will find some of the Cape’s isolated secrets where many of the waterholes, creeks and rivers are still in pristine condition. Packed with Barra, Jacks Queenies and GT’s these waters offer you some very exciting fishing. At the end of your adventure, feast on your catch expertly cooked by tour guides, camp out under the stars and enjoy the thrill of a complete escape adventure. Suitable for the novice and expert riders alike, you will never forget the sites of Cape York or the thrills of turning a corner to find breathtaking views or a river just begging to have a lure thrown in. CYMCA offers a varied range of tours from 1 to 10 days to suit any timeframe or budget and each route has been designed to test the rider’s skill level. Private customised tours can be organised to suit your requirements. Cape York Motor Cycle Adventures currently own and operate 21 motorcycles, a 14-seat mini-van and a Toyota Land-cruiser 4WD support vehicle that accompanies each 5, 6 and 8 day excursion. You will also travel with the peace of mind that the guides carry the latest telecommunication technology, are all first aid certified and have direct access to emergency medical assistance if required. Escaping to the tip of our beautiful country Australia will be the best motorcycle adventure you’ll ever have. All you have to do is enjoy the ride and take in the scenery around you; Cape York Motor Cycle Adventures will take care of the rest.

For more information contact: www.capeyorkmotorcycles.com.au adventures@capeyorkmotorcycles.com.au

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07 4059 0220

K7 Adventures K7 Adventures Thinking of taking a cool holiday break? A cool adrenaline rush in the Snowy Mountains abseiling granite tors, feeling the rush of air on one of the many cross-country mountain bike tracks or casting your eyes over the endless mountain views could be for you. The stunning landscapes will encapsulate you in freedom and space or simply spin you into a cool adventure! K7 Adventures takes you on half day, relaxed days and full days climbing and abseiling, cross-country mountain biking and mountain adventure walks - away from the madding crowds and into the solitary beauty that the Snowies is famous for. An Australian Ecotourism Accredited organisation, K7 engages individuals, small groups, and families with the alpine environments leaving no trace and simply taking away amazing experiences! K7 can hook you up with white water rafting on untouched sections of the Murray River. High up in the Snowy Mountains south of Mt Kosciusko, the Murray River provides Victoria’s only unrestricted white water rafting. This mountain river is also unique in that it relies almost solely on rainfall, and receives very little water from melting snow. If you need more of an adrenalin rush then you may like to try river sledding on the Thredbo where you can enjoy spectacular scenery while you ride the rapids. For those who want more of a relaxed water adventure, the flat waters of Lake Jindabyne is where you can taste the thrilling sensation of wake boarding, or you can swim in the cool waters, take sailing lessons or hire a kayak or canoe and travel the waters at your own pace. For the real thrill seeker, K7 Adventures X-Country Mountain Bike guides can take you to their favourite trails on the comfort of your own bike or you can hire some top quality fully serviced gear through them. Snowy Mountains bushwalking is unique and varied from high country walks to the forested sub-alpine terrain with its abundance of wildlife, wildflowers and alpine huts. K7 Adventures will take you to some very special places! We can offer you a range of satisfying walks that inspire, uplift and exhilarate you. If you want to chill and do nothing, there is plenty of time and an abundance of places to do that by yourself or in comfort whether at Lake Crackenback Resort, Wild Brumby Distillery or any of the high country eateries! If art and photography is your thing, spend some time with experienced K7 Alpine Photography guides who will take you to the best places at the right ‘light’ time to capture amazing and unforgettable images. Truly spectacular sunsets over the western horizon and mountain skies reward photographers with unforgettable memories and images. Capture the sights, scenes and scents of fresh alpine air on your camera in one of the most powerful landscapes in the most sensitive light. Take with you a sense of exploration and you will never look back.

For more information contact: www.k7adventures.com contact@k7adventures.com

0421 862 354

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Jungle Surfing Canopy Tours Jungle Surfing Canopy Tours There’s a new species in the world’s oldest rainforest and its called the Jungle Surfer. Jungle Surfing Canopy Tours have unique tours where your feet never touch the ground as you fly through the trees on flying fox ziplines, stopping at five tree platforms along the way for a bird’s eye view over the treetops, down to cascading streams and out to the Great Barrier Reef. Jungle Surfing is a fun and safe activity that will make your holiday to the Daintree a memorable one. Jungle Surfing is a unique and exhilarating way to experience the beauty of the world-renowned Daintree Rainforest. With its low-impact system of platforms and cables, Jungle Surfing offers unparalleled access to the heart of the Daintree from the bustling forest floor to the giants that tower above the canopy. Everyone at Jungle Surfing Canopy tours is passionate about their amazing environment and all the weird and wonderful creatures within it. Feel the excitement as you fly through the trees, rediscover your sense of adventure, and take away a new understanding and appreciation of the vibrant and intricate life of the rainforest. On each platform, a guide will greet you, connect you safely to the tree, and introduce you to different elements of the forest before sending you on your way to the next platform. From Platform 1 to 3 you travel in pairs a few metres apart, the guides have complete control of your gentle flight, leaving you free to take photographs or just take in the views. On the way down, pause briefly at the highest point of the tour, 23 metres above Mason Creek. From Platform 3 to 4, in a beautiful section of old-growth rainforest, you’ll fly solo and fast across the creek. Your final flight from Platform 4 to 5 gives you an extra shot of adrenalin as you flip yourself upside down and watch the ground beneath you speed past. From Platform 5, it’s a short walk to the harnessing centre then back to the Snake House where you’ll have an opportunity to buy Jungle Surfing merchandise and gifts plus view our reptile display. The tour takes two hours from pick-up to drop-off, with over an hour up in the treetops. You’ll have plenty of time on each platform to absorb the forest environment. Want to see the dark side of the forest too? Jungle Adventures Nightwalks could be the answer. As the sun sets over the treetops, the animals stir and the forest floor comes to life. Grab a torch and follow the guides deep into the ancient forest to a fascinating, vibrant pristine nocturnal world with only the inky blackness and the pulse of the rainforest to keep you company. Jungle Surfing Canopy Tours operate every day except for Christmas Day and New Years Day, with courtesy transfers from the Snake House and selected accommodation in Cape Tribulation. Bookings essential.

For more information contact: www.junglesurfing.com.au info@junglesurfing.com.au

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07 4098 0043

Jetfighter Jet Fighter Have you dreamt of being a Top Gun pilot? With JetFighter, you can! Strap yourself into the ultimate ride in an ex-military fighter jet, an Albatros L-39C! With JetFighter you will experience adrenaline at its best as you reach speeds of up to 900km/h at 5Gs. There are five unique combat missions to choose from: • Introductory – a 15 minute adventure joy flight in an L-39 Albatros, this entry level mission will allow you to experience the thrill of being in a real JetFighter and will leave you grinning from ear to ear. • Hot Shot 25 Minute – a 25 minute adventure flight in the L-39 Albatros, the Hot Shot mission will take you into a world of aerobatics, allowing you to experience a jet display routine like those you see at Air Shows all over Australia. • Top Gun 30 Minute – this 30 minute mission in an L-39 Albatros includes all the Hot Shot Mission plus 10 extra minutes of high intensity fighter combat manoeuvres to simulate a real fight. • Combat Strike 35 Minute - a popular 35 minute mission in the L-39 Albatros including all the Hot Shot Mission and Top Gun experiences then adds a low level Strike that simulates a military Fighter Jet air to ground attack. • Dog Fight 35 Minute - Air to Air Combat, as close as you can get to the real thing. This experience is as good as it gets and is not for the faint hearted. JetFighter also offers Corporate Packages – personalised flights to meet your expectations, with mission flight times from 15 to 35 minutes. JetFighter’s pilots are among the best in the country and are standing by to escort you on the adventure of a lifetime. World champion pylon racer Captain Rodney Hall joins with RAAF FA/18 combat instructors Squadron Leaders Jason Easthope and Phil Frawley – all of whom have flown a number of military aircraft in both Australia and New Zealand. Depending on which mission you choose, one of these highly experienced pilots will take you through a range of acrobatics, including aileron and barrel rolls, hesitation rolls, vertical rolls, loops, inverted flight and wing-overs; and military combat manoeuvres including derry reversals, split-S, combat wingovers and immelmans. Located in Port Macquarie, Hunter Valley and Lismore, JetFighter has been operating since 1996 and is the longest running adventure jet operator in Australia. With a 100% incident free record, JetFighter’s team prides themselves on putting safety first and offer a quality experience you can only expect from such a highly acclaimed company. A 100% customer satisfaction is your guarantee of a successful experience. You will be dealing directly with the company that owns and operates the jets so you are guaranteed to receive a quality of service and a standard of operation second to none.

For more information contact: www.jetfighter.com.au broni@jetfighter.com.au

1300 727 700

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AMBC Mountain Biking

Australian Mountain Biking Clinics

AMBC has a series of courses aimed at improving the skills techniques for all levels of riders. From beginners to experienced racers, we have the course to help you to get more from your riding… so whether you’re just starting out, riding for fun, fitness or you’re aiming to win that next race, our courses will allow you to put the skills you learn at AMBC into practice wherever you choose to ride. We have fully trained, accredited, professional and friendly staff who will ensure you get the most from your experience. Our Courses Phundamentals Trail Bunnies Trailbreakers Chix At Speed Learning To Fly Flow Baby Flow Dropzone

Mountain Biking for Everyone Mountain Biking for Girls Only Mountain Biking for Everyone Mountain Biking for Girls Only Downhill & Freeride Serious XC & Enduro Serious Downhill & Freeride

(Beginners) (Beginners) (Intermediate) (Intermediate) (Intermediate) (Advanced) (Advanced)

Locations We run courses in NSW & VIC at various locations. For The Beginner: Our courses teach the fundamentals of controlling your bike and riding on dirt. Not only will you learn to control your bike, but you will learn how to keep stable on rough terrain, how to position yourself so that you are balanced over your bike and how to read what your bike needs you to do (and how to do it!). We are big believers that bikes are built for this stuff, and that it’s only the human element that make them fall down. For The Intermediate: Whether you are a weekend warrior who can tackle some drops/logs, rutted out tracks and/or the occasional step up or techie descent, or a XC racer who wants to refine some technique and maintain momentum, these courses will have you leaving your friends behind in your dust. For The Advanced: These courses help you refine and sharpen your riding skills and techniques, so whether you want to tackle some big drops or improve your speed and flow on the trail, you will find yourself riding better, faster and smarter. AMBC have built and maintain a great reputation for providing targeted and focused skills clinics to a broad range of participants. We’ve developed a great following with our clinics ranging from novice through to advanced covering both cross-country and down-hill disciplines. We provide both women-specific & co-ed clinics in a comfortable learning environment where participants can build confidence with a group of people at similar levels. Visit AMBC to book a course and for more information or contact us about a customised or private lesson

For more information contact AMBC: www.ambc.com.au

info@ambc.com.au

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0427 207 937

Adrenaline Rush Landsailing

For the most fun you can ever have on three or two wheels, as the name duly states Andrenaline Rush Landsailing is the ultimate adrenaline rush! Land sailing, also known as land or sand yachting, involves moving across land in a wheeled vehicle, powered by the use of a sail. It is a unique experience and is guaranteed to be like nothing you have ever experienced before. It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t matter if you are 8 years old, or 98 years old, just 30 minutes of landsailing will have you smiling for years to come. Strapped into a harness, feel the power of the wind pushing you to angles more than 5 times the speed of the prevailing wind. Safety is paramount at Adrenaline Rush and their experienced instructors have first aid certificates and equipment, and all students are fitted with protective gloves, knee and elbow pads and helmets. Sessions include basic sailing theory and safety and kart handling education that will have you cruising around in no time at all! Take your first steps in the landsailer with Adrenaline Rush by your side, coaching you as you go. This training is an essential part of your experience, ensuring you are taking off sailing in the safest possible atmosphere. For children or teenagers, the trainers will often ride along (standing on the rear axle) for the first few laps. Adrenaline Rush also run the Fast Track Land Sailing Course, which consists of 3 x 2 two hour sessions, taking an absolute beginner through to a competent level where they are ready to race. Located on the Gold Coast and with centres opening shortly in Perth, Sydney, Mebourne and Adelaide, Adrenaline Rush Landsailing is the only provider to offer training, hire and sales in Australia. So if you head out for a session and come back in with a feeling that you just MUST have one of these amazing machines, Adrenaline Rush can accommodate your wish. Adrenaline Rush also offers a mobile service, taking their landsails to a suitable venue near you. Everyone is fully insured whilst participating. Additional Information: It is recommend you wear warm waterproof clothing and footwear in winter and loose fitting clothing and closed shoes in summer but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to take a long sleeve top. Session prices start from $80 while equipment hire begins at $50. Tickets include drinks, snacks, lunch where specified, and return ferry tickets. Additional hours on any package are charged at $50 per hour, per person. Participants must be over 8 years old to sail a landsailer unaccompanied. After a few minutes you will be able to manoeuvre the landsailer by yourself and will find yourself chasing the wind with a smile all over your face!!

For more information contact Adrenaline Rush Landsailing: www.adrenaline-rush-landsailing.com contact@adrenaline-rush-landsailing.com

0418 984 019

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Balloon Adventures Balloon Adventures Is hot air ballooning on your ‘bucket list’? If the answer is yes, then it’s time to experience the magic and wonder as a giant colourful balloon lifts you gently into the air for an adventure holiday of a lifetime. Balloon Adventures has been a long established and successful business offering hot air balloon joy flights over the Barossa Valley for over 25 years. Your balloon experience starts before sunrise at the picturesque Peter Lehmann Winery in the world famous Barossa Valley. Set on the banks of the meandering North Para River amongst tall red gums and sweeping lawns, Peter Lehmann Wines is one of the Barossa’s most picturesque and historically significant settings. From there the fun, friendly and highly experienced flight team checks the prevailing wind conditions and chooses the best launch site for the day. You will need to take warm clothing for the early morning as it may be chilly but the lower ambient temperatures and calm winds mean the hot air balloon is easy to get off the ground. Once the giant balloon is inflated, it’s up, up and away into the wild blue yonder drifting with the wind and giving you plenty of opportunity to take photos and enjoy the sense of freedom. Many brides have had a spectacular wedding story to tell their children and grandchildren and for the person in your family who has everything, this would be an ideal birthday, anniversary, Mothers or Fathers Day gift. A Balloon Adventure is quite possibly the most exhilarating experience you will ever have as you share the feeling of freedom with the birds and appreciate the peace and quiet. You may wish you could stay up there for more than an hour but when you finally come back down to earth, you will take away with you a memorable experience. After the flight, you are presented with a Flight Certificate as a certified ‘Balloonatic’. From the landing site, you head off to the nearest picnic spot for a champagne gourmet breakfast featuring a selection of the finest Barossa foods and good old-fashioned home cooking. To continue your experience you can tour the world-renowned region of the Barossa in a vintage automobile or hire a trail bike and enjoy the scenery. The Barossa is a great romantic escape, so take some time to wind down from your Balloon Adventures experience with a glass of premium wine, mouth-watering local produce. Spend the night in million-star accommodation under clear skies in a peaceful rural setting where each season accentuates the beauty of the vineyards and the undulating hills. Balloon Adventures fly all year round weather permitting, seven days a week and can provide gift vouchers for the person with everything. You can cross one more experience off your bucket list.

For more information contact: www.balloonadventures.com.au sales@balloonadventures.com.au

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08 8389 3195

Sydney Motorsport Park Sydney Motorsport Park If you’ve ever dreamed of getting behind the wheel of a supercar and driving unrestricted around a race track then you need to visit Sydney Motorsport Park. Formerly known as Eastern Creek Raceway, the newly transformed Sydney Motorsport Park is located 40 minutes from Sydney CBD where you can experience the absolute thrill of driving a real race car on a real race track plus a whole lot more. The Formula Company are based at Sydney Motorsport Park and they offer a world of motorsport experiences that let you get behind the wheel and feel what it’s like to be a race car driver. They also provide a world class driver training facility proudly supported by Volvo where they teach new and experienced drivers advanced and defensive driving techniques in a fleet of brand new Volvo’s. Start by living the dream with your own Ferrari Experience, driving at more than 200km/hr in one of the worlds great supercars, this is something that everyone must do once. The track tuned Ferrari is fitted with special brakes, exhaust and an easy to drive Formula 1 style paddle shift gearbox so everyone can experience what it’s like to be a pro driver. You can drive the car yourself or ride shotgun as a passenger with a professional race car driver. Choose from three exciting packages – Drive A Ferrari, which gives you the chance to drive 5 laps yourself with a professional driver in the passenger seat; Drive and Ride in a Ferrari, 5 laps of driving, 3 laps as passenger; and Ride in a Ferrari, with 3 laps of the circuit. This is the only track based Ferrari experience in Sydney and one you won’t want to miss! If you’ve ever watched Formula 1 and wondered if you could do it, then the Radical Race Car Experience is the opportunity you’ve been looking for! Be transported into the world of a professional race car driver in the world’s most successful sports-racer, the Radical SR3RS. With top speeds of over 200km/ hr you can take a drive or a passenger hot lap in a Radical for one of the most exhilarating and memorable experiences of your life. From the moment you enter the track, you will be part of the real race team deal. From a briefing on your goals for the day, getting to know the car and its capabilities, to starting the engine and getting out there, you are guaranteed to come away with a smile on your face! The Park also offers you the chance you put your OWN car to the test! The ARDC Drive Days will allow you to access the new tracks, with experienced instructors on hand to coach you through the finer points of the track and your car. Whether you’re a racer or a road car enthusiast, ARDC Track Days will cater to your driving needs! Sydney Motorsport Park is also Sydney’s main hub for driver safety, education and vehicle testing. Brought to you by Volvo and The Formula Company, Sydney Motorsport Park Driver Training uses the complete Driversafety.com. au range of driver training programs. The programs are designed for anyone from L Plates to experienced and professional drivers wanting to improve their safety on the roads. Their training systems are based on the latest research and are designed to enhance safety and reduce vehicle operational costs. Programs are available for individuals and corporate. If you’re looking for something thrilling to do in Sydney, dare to dream at Sydney Motorsport Park.

For more information contact: www.sydneymotorsportpark.com.au maeve@theformulacompany.com

02 9672 1000

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Australis Canoes and Kayaks Australis Canoes and Kayaks Love Canoeing and kayaking? Want something made in Australia for Australian conditions? If you answered yes, then, Australis Canoes and Kayaks have the product for you! With stockists located throughout Australia, you can’t miss what they have to offer. As Australis uses the highest quality materials and UV stabilisers during the manufacturing process they are able to offer a lifetime warranty on their canoes and kayaks. All craft are made from 100% Australian raw materials and are made in Wollongong, New South Wales. Australis is a family owned and operated business that has been in operation since 1987. The owners have over 100 years combined on the water paddling experience. All Australis watercraft meet Australian standards and you are guaranteed an exceptional product that performs beautifully on the water. Australis Canoes and Kayaks also have a sense of community; they recently supported Mark Walsh who under the banner “Kayak4Life”, paddled 2400km down the Murray River in an Australis Salamander kayak raising much needed funds for the Cancer Council. Australis Canoes is a proud licensee of the ‘Australian Made, Australian Owned’ campaign and all canoes, kayaks, sit-on-tops and paddles have been certified to be a “Product of Australia” which is the highest qualification offered to an Australian manufacturer. There is a very comprehensive range available from Australis, including: sit on tops (7 models), canoes (2 models), kayaks (6 models), and sea kayaks (4 models). Fishing packages are also available for the majority of canoes, kayaks and sit-on-tops in the range. Australis cater for everyone with kayaks starting at $595.00 including a paddle. The Australis range offers products suitable for beginners to advanced paddlers, so everyone can get into the healthy and ‘green’ fun of paddling. They even have a sea kayak called the “Komodo” that can be converted from a double to a single. This kayak, as well as the “Iguana’, can be easily stored and transported in sections. The Australis sit on top range includes models that can be stacked one on top of the other for easy storage and car topping. They even have a sit on top that can be paddled by 2 or 3 people. All of the canoes, kayaks and sit-on-tops come with a free paddle Australis offers potential customers the opportunity to “try before you buy” to ensure that the customer chooses the craft that is best for them. Test paddles are available from some of their retail outlets and also at the factory in Wollongong by pre-arranged appointment. The Australis Factory outlet also offers customers the option of hiring the craft of their choice for the day, weekend, week or longer. Start your adventure in watercraft with Australis today!

For more information contact: www.canoes.com.au mail@canoes.com.au

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02 4285 2000

Sunsail Australia Sunsail Australia If you like to feel the breeze rushing through your hair, and love the smell of the sea, cruising the stunning islands and beaches of the Whitsundays or taking a Mediterranean getaway to historic coastal cities may be the perfect holiday for you. With over 800 yachts designed to meet your sailing requirements, and 32 destinations worldwide to choose from, Sunsail Australia provides you with a unique sailing experience. Self-paced itineraries allow you to stop off at uninhabited islands, explore quaint fishing villages and enjoy the culture and beauty of the area. With Sunsail, you can visit breathtaking destinations from our own backyard in the Whitsundays, to Tahiti, Tonga, Thailand, Malaysia, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean and new Northern American destinations including San Francisco and Vancouver. Sunsail offers great sailing holidays aboard monohulls and catamarans. Yachts can generally fit between 2-12 people and range from 32-53 feet. For the keen sailor who prefers the traditional sailing experience, you might like to choose the monohull. If you’re passionate and more adventurous, catamarans provide better stability in the water and have greater indoor space. For the in-experienced sailor, you can hire a skipper who will take care of all the work for you while you chill out with a book and a glass of bubbly, or take a dip in the cool waters. If you would like to experience an added sense of peace, a Flotilla is the ultimate in social sailing. As part of a group of up to 14 yachts following a lead boat, you will feel safe knowing help is nearby should you need it. At the end of the day, join with other sailors on your Flotilla for an evening meal, a beach BBQ or Punch Party. Sunsail Australia offer flotilla options in the Mediterranean and Caribbean, and are set to offer flotillas in the Whitsundays for 2013. The Whitsunday Islands sheltered by the Great Barrier Reef are one of the world’s most spectacular sailing grounds. Hamilton Island is the ideal place to begin exploring the golden sandy beaches, unparalleled fringing reefs, tropical fish and frequent sightings of dolphins and humpback whales. Mediterranean sailing holidays are limited only by your imagination. From the thousand Islands of Croatia’s Adriatic Coast, to the secluded anchorages of southern Turkey you will find your ideal holiday. There is a certain exotic charm to the Asia Pacific and with Sunsail Australia, there is no better way to cruise the beautiful waters of Thailand and Malaysia, the South Pacific gems of Tahiti or Tonga. Sunsail offers two distinctly different sailing experiences in their new destinations. San Francisco offers sailing by amazing landmarks like the Golden Gate Bridge and right up to the Napa Valley region, while Vancouver Island offers fabulous scenery and amazing wildlife, with more than 2,154 islands to explore. There is no better holiday experience than a Sunsail Australia Sailing Holiday.

For more information contact: www.sunsail.com.au sales@sunsail.com.au

02 8912 7001

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ith the new year, many people make plans to lose weight, exercise more and take control of their lives but few give a real thought to protecting some of the most important things in life, your family and income Australians have a chronic underinsurance problem when it comes to protecting themselves and their incomes using personal insurance. Make 2013 the year you put a plan in place to protect your loved ones and your financial plan moving forward. Financial protection can be considered one of the most important aspects of planning for and protecting your future. Not many people consider how their family would cope financially should they die, become disabled or suffer a major, if events like cancer or heart attack. Why is personal insurance so important? Each year serious medical conditions such as cancer, heart attack or stroke can strike unexpectedly, even for those with a seemingly healthy lifestyle. In addition to the emotional and physical strain, suffering a serious medical condition can have significant financial consequences. Life insurance provides a financial means to continue your normal way of life in the event of accident, serious illness or death. The bills don’t stop just because you do. Being healthy day in day out, year after year of your working life is a pretty tall order. What if a severe sickness or injury prevented you from earning an income for a period of time - weeks, months or even years? Could you still meet your mortgage repayments? Could you cover the immediate costs associated with health problems? Could you maintain your current lifestyle? Could you still afford to travel? What are the main personal insurances? Most people think of term “life insurance” as the most important cover because they see so many different advertisements on television, when this is really only a small piece of the puzzle. To protect yourself, your business, and your family properly, you usually need a combination of insurances.

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Some of these are:

• Term life insurance - is paid if you are terminally ill or die. • Total and permanent disability insurance - is paid if you can never work in an occupation again. • Income protection insurance - pays if you can’t work due to temporary or total disability. • Trauma insurance - is paid if you meet a specific medical condition for example, cancer, heart attack, stroke, paralysis and many more. • Business expenses and key person insurance assist businesses in continuing if the key personal decision maker cannot work due to disability, death, or trauma. Quite often people think they have these covers in place. In some cases, people do have cover with their superannuation fund or employer, but this is usually not enough. In fact, most people do not have enough of these insurances. I have found when discussing these insurances and protections with my clients, although they may have some of these products in place, it would not meet their needs if something disastrous should occur. So how much do I need? That depends on your discussion with your adviser. Each product will be considered differently in your financial protection strategy. It is definitely important to think about retiring debts, medical expenses, final expenses, and also the future income that will be lost by either not being around or unable to work. In basic terms, you need to think about your current and future financial obligations, and then minus your existing savings, investments and insurance. That then gives you life insurance need. What is the process like from start to finish? This is going to depend on the insurer you are recommended, and the level of advice you have received. Sure insurers ask a lot of questions, but that is so they can build a profile around offering you cover. Medicals and blood tests are not usually needed unless you have a pre-existing condition. Clients always ask me about claims because at the end of the day, you’re paying a premium to protect your income and family. I encourage clients to keep in contact with me, and let me know if their health or financial situation changes. I have had very positive claims with my clients because we complete what is required with the insurer and follow-up diligently. It is very important that you give the best information and follow the advice of your doctor. I have been part of many claims paid in my 10+ years in the industry. I’ve seen how by using a financial protection strategy like personal insurance can change the lives of clients. If they didn’t have any of these protections, they would have lost their home and a whole lot more. When you wake up on January 1 with the New Years’ resolution of 2013, make sure you seek advice on protecting yourself and your business and your family. The cost of not doing anything is a whole lot more than an insurance premium. Have a safe and prosperous 2013!

Andrew Graham of Approved Financial Planning Pty Ltd is an authorised representative of AIW Dealer Services Pty Ltd - AFSL 414256.

Finance A Great New Years Resolution protecting yourself and your family! by Andrew Graham

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traveller

Armchair

by Tara Downey

Cuisine

Travel

Feature Book

In Nirmala’s Kitchen – Everyday World Cuisine

Holidays In Hell

Jack of Diamonds

If you love travel, and you love to cook, this is the book for you. In Nirmala’s Kitchen – Everyday World Cuisine brings together taste sensations from around the world as she feasts her way through a number of countries and shares the recipes with readers. During her travels, author Nirmala Narine visits places like New Zealand, North Africa, India and the Caribbean and searches through the local markets, along with traipsing through remote areas to bring some amazing herbs and spices into her recipes. The book even includes a glossary as a guide all the herbs and spices. And this is a woman who knows what she is talking about. She has a gourmet food company that specialises in spices, exotic rice blends and Global Meal kids and her products have been features in the New York Times, Food & Wine and O, the Oprah Magazine! Nirmala also has another book called “Nirmala’s Edible Diary” where she takes to South America, visiting 14 countries and stealing their recipes to give to the reader. This is another highly recommended cook book for anyone wanting to step outside the norm in the kitchen.

Written by P.J O’Rourke Holidays in Hell is an amusing guide to the world’s most dangerous and desolate places. From sight-seeing in war-torn Lebanon to spending Christmas in El Salvador and storming barricades set up by student protesters and riot police in South Korea, there are so many different, yet humorous, adventures to read about. It’s a classic – first published in 1988 – but it was reprinted in 2012. The stories were originally articles written for magazines like Rolling Stone and they are not only well-written, but funny too. P.J. O’Rourke sets out on an obvious quest to find trouble throughout the world. This book is easy to read and it also provides an interesting insight into travelling throughout third world countries during times of war. If you like a little bit of sarcasm and dry humour when it comes to reading travel stories, this book will be a great read for you. You won’t learn too much about the destinations as they are today, but you will have an amazing insight into their history. This book well preceded his latest - Holidays in Heck, which was released in 2011.

The last novel of acclaimed Australian author Bryce Courtenay will surely go down as being one of his best books ever. Bryce passed away from stomach cancer just 10 days after the book, Jack of Diamonds, was released. Jack of Diamonds is set in Toronto during the Great Depression. It’s the story of Jack Spayd who uses music to escape his surroundings – starting with the harmonica, before moving into the jazz scene. His piano skills take him around the world and he eventually becomes involved in the world of elite poker in a town which is ruled by the Mafia. After his luck turns bad, he is forced to run, leaving his new life and lover behind, and ends up in Africa where his life takes more turns. Jack of Diamonds is ultimately a story about chance and love. It’s a great read, and hard to put down, particularly knowing it is the last one to ever be written by Bryce. If you haven’t read any of his books, you’re missing out. Also recommended are his first best seller – The Power of One; Australian-themed Jessica; and April Fools’ Day, a non-fiction which was written about his son who died from AIDS.

Nirmala Narine

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P.J O’Rourke

Bryce Courtenay

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