AUSTRALIA y a d i l o h g n i k wor
guide
OVER DISCO AU$600 OF UNTS INSID Accomm E o and muodation, activit ch, muc s, h moreie !
Loads of freebies and big discounts with your Visa Bureau Platinum Card! To be eligible for the offers, you must register the card within 21 days at www.visabureau.com/platinumcard.
GET £25 OFF
ANY RETURN FLIGHTS TO AUSTRALIA PLUS WE GUARANTEE TO BEAT ANY FLIGHT PRICE!
STA Travel, specialists in travel for students and young people, can help you plan and book your perfect working holiday. Speak to a consultant about our exclusive Visa Bureau travel service:
zFLIGHTSz ACCOMMODATIONz zADVENTUREzTRIPSzTRAVELz zINSURANCEzSHORT BREAKSz zROUND THE WORLDzGAP YEARzVOLUNTEERzPROJECTS zLANGUAGE COURSESz zAND MUCH MOREz z
Terms and conditions: In order to be eligible for the discount, you must call 0845 257 6019 or email visabureau@statravel.co.uk. Offer subject to change.
Welcome to adventure!
Contents
AUSTRALIA WORKING HOLIDAY Contents Experience Oz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6-15 Get to grips with real Oz experiences.
Oz Map . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17 Check out our Platinum Card partners.
Oz Essentials . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18-35 The lowdown on what you need.
Sydney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36-46 Australia’s biggest and brightest city.
So you’re finally in Australia. What the hell kept you? A laid-back lifestyle, gorgeous beaches, amazing crystal-clear waters ideal for surfing, a thriving nightlife and a huge variety of things to see and do; frankly, it was rude of you to take so long to get here. Now you’ve arrived though, we’ll show you what you’ve been missing.
Brisbane . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48-55 Surf, sand and partying!
Great Barrier Reef/Cairns 56-63 Fun on the coast.
Darwin/Red Centre . . . . . . . 64-71 The wild heart of Oz.
Perth . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72-78
PLATINUM CARD OFFERS & SAVINGS
Adventures in Western Australia.
LOOK FOR THE LOGO!
All action on the south coast.
Throughout this guide, you’ll notice the Platinum Card logo next to some of the best Australian experiences, hostels and holiday essentials. The logo means you’ll be eligible for either an exclusive freebie or a hefty discount. To take advantage of the offers though, you MUST register your card online within 21 days of receiving your card at www.visabureau.com/platinumcard. Problems with your Platinum Card? Contact cardhelp@visabureau.com. Please check online for full details and terms and conditions. Offers subject to change.
Adelaide . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 79-84 Hobart . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 86-91 The unexplored gem
Melbourne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 92-99 Cool culture in Oz’s slickest city.
Canberra . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100-105 What to do in Australia’s capital city.
Oz Info . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 106-108 Web directory, national events, festival information and Aussie slang! 5
Experience Oz
AUSTRALIA
S E M E R T EX
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whitsundays sailing adventures: Master the open sea Whitsundays Sailing Adventures Level 2/293 Shute Harbour Rd, Airlie Beach t: +61 (0) 7 4940 2000 e: bookings@whitsailing.com w: www.whitsundayssailingadventures.com.au
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15% OFF
YOUR RULES!
Experience Oz
. . . . S T R SPO YOUR HOLIDAY
manly surf school: Catching the waves
North Steyne Surf Club, Manly t: +61 (0) 2 9977 6977 e: bookings@manlysurfschool.com w: www.manlysurfschool.com Register your Platinum Card within 21 days of receiving your visa for a FREE surf lesson upon booking 3 lessons.
FRE E LES SURF SON
skydive the beach:
$30 O FRE E T FF + -SH IRT
Ultimate adrenaline rush Skydive the Beach George Hanley Drive, North Wollongong NSW 2500 t: 1300 663 634 e: bookings@skydivethebeach.com w: www.skydivethebeach.com.au
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Experience Oz
AUSTRALIA
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spaceships rentals:
DIS20% CO
Spaceships Rentals Sydney Office Shop 3, 191-201 William St, Darlinghurst, NSW t: +61 (0) 2 8356 2900 Oz freephone: 1300 132 469 e: enquiries@spaceshipsrentals.com.au w: www.spaceshipsrentals.com.au
Get on board!
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oz experience:
10% discount off any Oz Experience package - just use promo code PLATINUM when booking on www.ozexperience.com or when calling 1300 300 028 in Australia.
DIS10% COU NT
Oz Experience Shop 4-7 Central Station, Eddy Ave, Sydney t: 1300 300 028 e: info@ozexperience.com w: www.ozexperience.com
Take in Australia at your own speed!
UN T
Experience Oz
. . . . d n u o r
GET ON OUT THERE!
adventure tours australia:
Big savings on real Aussie Adventures! Adventure Tours Australia, 72 The Parade, Norwood, SA 5067 t: 1300 654 604 e: reservations@adventuretours.com.au w: www.adventuretours.com.au
multi-day tours Into the wild for multi-day tours! Register your Platinum Card within 21 days for a 10% discount on small group tours Australia wide, provided the tour is for at least two days. For full terms and conditions, please check www.visabureau.com/platinumcard.
dropbear adventures:
DIS10% COU NT
The best 4WD tour on Fraser Island! Dropbear Adventures Williams Ave, Fraser Island. QLD 4581 t: 1800 061 156 e: info@dropbearadventures.com.au w: www.dropbearadventures.com.au 15% discount when you book direct plus a FREE Aussie stubby cooler with every tour!
DIS15% COU NT
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Experience Oz
TRANSPORT AND TRAVEL: Getting around in Oz! Australia is a big country: at its widest point, Australia is 4,000 km across. That’s 2,485 miles, or 40,000 football pitches from the east coast to the west. In fact, Britain can fit into Australia approximately 32 times. Fancy a walk, anyone? Didn’t think so, which is why the transport system in Australia offers a great range of options to get from A to B, and caters to all types of budgets and time restraints. And before you start thinking about riding in the pouch of a kangaroo, remember, they are nicknamed ‘boxing roos’ for reasons best left untested. Coach/bus Prepare your buttocks! The most popular mode of transport for backpackers is the longdistance coach. It’s economical, particularly for one or two travellers, and still offers a fair amount of flexibility for those keen to see as much of the red country as possible and have all the time in the world. You can tailor your bus trip to suit your needs, hop on and off whenever you please, or follow an itinerary chosen by a bus company. The choice is yours!
Greyhound is Australia’s most comprehensive bus company, covering all states and territories of the country, and offers a huge amount of bus passes from single trips from $15 to flexi-travel passes giving you 20,000km of travel to redeem to anywhere around Oz. Both Oz Experience and Adventure Tours Australia give Greyhound a good run for their money (check out their website for some interesting travel routes). You can pick up a Shazza Pass or cruise around with Knobs and Bells, jump on a Fish Hook or get real Fair Dinkum - they’re always good for a laugh. What’s more, you can get discounts on multiday tours with Adventure Tours Australia and tour packages with Oz Experience when you use your Platinum Card! Check pages 8 and 9 for more information. Australian Coach Tours
Some bus passes allow you up to 365 days to complete your chosen route, which means you can stay for as long or as little as you like at each designated stop. If you discover that cattle farms really aren’t your calling in life, and fancy spending more of your time slugging back a cold stubbie of beer after surfing on the Sunshine Coast, then this is probably the travel option for you. Or, if you wake up after a big night in Sydney and realise you’ve missed your bus to Canberra - again - then you can relax knowing there’ll always be another one on its way. 10
Greyhound w: www.greyhound.com.au Oz Experience w: www.ozexperience.com Adventure Tours w: www.adventuretours.com.au Buying a car or campervan Travelling by car or campervan is a really popular way to get around Australia. There are some big, wide-open spaces to see and you can make some serious tracks in your own wheels. Plus you can save money by
Queensland w: www.tmr.qld.gov.au New South Wales w: www.rta.nsw.gov.au Victoria w: www.vicroads.vic.gov.au
Experience Oz
State/Territory Driving and Registration Info
Western Australia w: www.transport.wa.gov.au
pulling up at a caravan park or by camping along the way. However, buying a second-hand car in Australia isn’t as simple as it may seem. You have to consider that the car must be registered and must have compulsory third party insurance. Each state and territory has different registration and road rules, so take a look at the relevant websites to be informed before buying in your particular state. Because of the costs, it’s probably only worth buying a car if you are travelling for more than three months. And remember, roobars will be your best friend when driving through the outback – those kangaroos will bounce out of nowhere and take you and your backpacking buddies by a big, thumping surprise. If you want to tackle the long, dusty roads in the outback, make sure you take with you enough food and water to last a week (about 21L of water per person). Let your mates or local police know where you are headed and when you should arrive, and if you do breakdown don’t go walkabout. A car is easier to find in the desert than a walking person.
Northern Territory w: www.nt.gov.au South Australia w: www.transport.sa.gov.au ACT w: www.rego.act.gov.au Tasmania w: www.transport.tas.gov.au Renting a Campervan or Car Campervans are a great way to cruise around the coast of Australia. There are plenty of picture-perfect spots to park up along the way, you have all the flexibility of having wheels, you get the convenience of a mobile kitchen, and you can fit in that extra luggage you didn’t really need to bring. Many hire companies offer a range of campervans, from luxury motorhomes to lowbudget backpacker campers. There are some pretty funky campers cruising around – you can definitely rock up to the beach in style. If you are planning your trip over a busy holiday period, make sure you book your van early.
Another hot tip: buy cars that are common (older versions of Commodore, Falcon, Landcruiser, or Patrol), so parts and repairs are easy and affordable. Used Vehicle Websites Trading Post w: www.tradingpost.com.au Drive w: www.drive.com.au 11
Experience Oz
It’s also worth remembering that with our mates at Spaceships Rentals, you can get an ‘out of this world’ 20% discount! For more info (and less awful puns), check page 8. Renting a car is only recommended if you have a short holiday planned (up to three weeks), as it can get fairly pricey. But, the great thing is, UK licence holders can drive in Australia for up to 12 months on a holiday visa without the hassle of changing to an Australian licence. And to make things even easier, Australians drive on the left-hand side of the road too! Car Rentals
Qantas), and Tiger Airways proudly representing the budget options. Virgin Australia, Jetstar and Tiger Airways regularly hold advance ticket sales, where you can snap up some very cheap flights right across the country. If you are keen to get first dibs, sign up on their websites for their sale email alerts. Regional Express (REX) offers some great – and cheap – options to get to smaller places, although they mainly concentrate on the southern parts of Australia. Rex runs frequent deals and offers which can change all the time so if you’re planning on flitting from place to place be sure to add them to your favourites.
Thrifty w: www.thrifty.com.au
Oz Airlines
Avis w: www.avis.com.au
Qantas w: www.qantas.com.au
Hertz w: www.hertz.com.au
Tiger Airways w: www.tigerairways.com
Budget w: www.budget.com.au
Virgin Australia w: www.virginaustralia.com
Campervan Rental
Jetstar w: www.jetstar.com
Spaceships Rentals w: www.spaceshipsrentals.com.au
REX w: www.rex.com.au Train Travelling around Australia by train is not as common as other methods as it isn’t as comprehensive as the coach system or as flexible as having your own vehicle. But, train journeys through the Red Centre and up the eastern coast are still a great classic train adventure.
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Internal Flights
Trains can cover plenty of distance at a great pace, letting you see more of the countryside from the air conditioned comfort of a train cabin. And even better, you can cruise through the outback without the fear of breaking down in a car.
If time isn’t on your side but money is, then flying is the best way to get around Australia. Qantas is Australia’s upmarket airline market, with Virgin Australia, Jetstar (a subsidiary of
Much the same as the coaches, you can choose from several types of train passes to suit your itinerary including an unlimited six month rail explorer pass.
Experience Oz
If you fancy splashing out, the famous Ghan route from Adelaide to Alice Springs and then all the way to tropical Darwin is the perfect way to watch the Australian Outback shift through all its terrains and sceneries, starting with historic towns, and moving through arid deserts and lush national parks. Sounds enticing! Oz Trains Great Southern Railways (including The Ghan, Indian Pacific, Overland and Southern Spirit train journeys) w: www.gsr.com.au Ferry Unfortunately, a ferry isn’t going to get you to the Red Centre of Australia as it hasn’t been flooded with enough water to float a vegemite buttie in 100 million years but they will take you to some of the most beautiful islands the world has to offer. Bookings can be made online for most ferries; all you have to do is search the web for the appropriate sites. Check out the provided ferry websites to get the ball rolling (or the boat sailing?). Oz Ferries Fraser Island (Harvey Bay) w: www.fraserislandferry.com.au Stradbroke Island (Brisbane) w: www.stradbrokeferries.com.au Phillip Island, French Island and Seal Rocks (Melbourne) w: www.interislandferries.com.au Whitsundays (Far North Queensland) w: www.fantasea.com.au Magnetic Island (North Queensland) w: www.magnetic-island.com.au And bear in mind, Sydney is a harbour city, renowned for its Harbour Bridge of course, and has thousands of people cruising around on ferries every day. Commuters use ferries from all over the harbour to get to work in the CBD every day, so avoiding the morning or evening rush is probably a good idea.
During the day when the sun is piping hot and the decks are clear, jump aboard the Rivercat from Circular Quay to the famous Manly Beach to a few rays and a few beers. The ferries run fairly regularly, are cheap, and can take you to some beautiful parts of Sydney including Taronga Zoo. Sydney ferries w: www.sydneyferries.info Cycling While you will still need the bus, car or plane to cover long distances, and the distances in Australia are loooong, a bike is still a good option for the cities. Cycling is an ideal way to explore by joining a guided tour, or you can hire a bike and make your own way around a city, or find yourself a little beauty in the Trading Post and sling it on the front of the Kombi for when you need it. Don’t forget, in Australia by law you need to wear a helmet while cycling ... or get an onthe-spot-fine, eek! You can download plenty of free cycling tour maps and podcasts for most regions online. Tasmania w: www.greatwesterntiers.net.au or w: www.discovertasmania.com South Australia w: www.southaustralia.com Melbourne, high country and Yarra valley w: www.visitvictoria.com Western Australia w: www.transport.wa.gov.au 13
Experience Oz
ABORIGINAL CULTURE: Ancient land and traditions Human habitation in Australia is estimated to have started some time between 42,000 and 48,000 years ago! There are thousands of years’ worth of culture to explore in Australia: traditional ceremonies, ancient rock art, didgeridoo playing, spear and boomerang throwing as well as and bush tucker and survival techniques. Aboriginal History When Anglo-Europeans arrived in 1788, there were around 600 different indigenous seminomadic hunter and gatherer tribes, each with their own tribal boundaries and distinct languages or dialects. Indigenous Australians were supreme experts in adapting to their environments with excellent tools and implements, tracking and bush tucker skills. Even in the desert Indigenous people knew where to look for water, or to find a tasty yam. Some tribes lived in lush bush land, others lived in the desert, and it is because of this that there is a wide variety of cultural practices, although all Indigenous Australians’ oral tradition and spiritual values are based on reverence for the land and a belief in the Dreamtime. Aboriginal Culture For Indigenous Australians all that is sacred is in the land, and knowledge of sacred sites is learned slowly over a lifetime through a process of initiation and gaining an
understanding of Aboriginal law. Stories and ceremonies, known as ‘the Dreamtime’ are passed down from Aboriginal elders. Different stories are kept by different tribes and their members depend on their age or status, personal relationship with a site, or sex. In the Dreamtime, Ancestor spirits came to the Earth in human form and moved through the land creating animals, plants, rocks and landscapes. Once the ancestor spirits had created the world they turned into the trees, watering holes, rocks and other objects which remain there today. Sacred places of Aboriginal culture retain the ancestors’ spirits, and so the Dreaming links the past and the present, the people and the land. Many aspects of Aboriginal culture and sacred sites are not public knowledge, which is why it has been difficult for traditional owners to prove their claims to land and preserve sites. Now it is common to culturally recognise the traditional custodians of the land. Usually an elder, but always an Aboriginal person, will undertake a “welcome to the country” ceremony, and an “acknowledgement of country” is how non-Aboriginal people can show respect. An example of acknowledgement of Darkinjung country includes: I would like to acknowledge the Darkinjung people who are the Traditional Custodians of this land and pay respect to the Elders both past and present of the Darkinjung Nation.
Bush tucker 14
Experience Oz
Many indigenous tribes are very willing to share their stories, art, dance and ceremonies, and have a cultural centre or keeping place. Some areas in Australia belong to the traditional owners, like Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory, and are virtually closed to independent travellers so a guided tour is a must. Aboriginal Tours Brambuk Cultural Centre – VIC 277 Grampians Tourist Road t: +61 (0) 3 5361 4000 w: www.brambuk.com.au Tours in the Grampian Mountains (outside of Melbourne). The Bunjil Creation Tour takes you to ancient rock art at the resting place of the creator Spirit Bunjili, and the Six Seasons Tour takes you into ancient Aboriginal cultural practices, ancient rock art and incredible mountain vantage points. Aboriginal Blue Mountains Walkabout - NSW Springwood t: +61 408 443 822 w: www.bluemountainswalkabout.com Walk with an Aboriginal guide through the Blue Mountains and see secluded bush land, ancient art, ceremonial sites, artefacts and hear Dreamtime stories. Mungo National Park Day Tours – NSW Wentworth
t: +61 (3) 5027 2076 w: www.harrynanyatours.com.au A tour with Paakantyi guide of an important and ancient area occupied by Aboriginals. Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park – QLD Cairns Western Arterial Road, Caravonica t: +61 (0) 7 4042 9900 w: www.tjapukai.com.au Half day, full day, and night tour options allowing you to learn the traditional customs and medicine of the Tjapukai (people of the rainforest) tribe of Cairns. Wula Guda Nyinda Eco Adventures – WA Monkey Mia, Shark Bay t: +61 (0) 429 708 847 w: www.wulaguda.com.au Discover the secrets of the land and understand the deep spiritual connection between the Nhanda and Malgana people.
Hot tips • The term “Abo”, is NOT cool. It’s respectful to call Indigenous people by the term they prefer, e.g. Koori or Yolngu. If in doubt the term ‘Indigenous’ shouldn’t cause offence. • Ask permission before taking photographs of both Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander people and their cultural places. • There are restrictions on the type and quantity of liquor that can be taken into remote Indigenous communities, so check before you leave. In some areas of Australia it is forbidden to bring in alcohol, and this applies to visitors as well as locals. • Direct eye contact with Aboriginal people can be considered rude and confrontational.
• Aboriginal cultural differences include: community is the foremost of all values; oral is preferred over print; goals are met with patience; work is often motivated by group need; silences are acceptable; listening skills are prized; soft spoken words carry farthest; nodding signifies understanding not necessarily agreement; group praise over individual praise holds a higher value. • The didgeridoo (not an Aboriginal name) is from the Aboriginal tribes of the Gulf of Carpentaria and across northern Australia. These tribes believe that it is a sacred instrument which should only be played by men. Female didgeridoo players may cause great offence. 15
Oz Map
FFERS PLATINUM CARD O
day.... li o h r u o y t u o p a m FREE NIGHT’S STAY AT CHILLI’S BACKPACKERS! 69a Mitchell St. Darwin t: +61 (0) 8 89 419 722 Page 65 for full details.
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15% DISCOUNT + FREE AUSSIE STUBBY COOLER WITH DROPBEAR ADVENTURES! Williams Ave, Fraser Island, QLD 4581 t: 1800 061 156 Page 9 for full details.
10% DISCOUNT ON ADVENTURE TOURS AUSTRALIA TOURS! 72 The Parade, Norwood SA 5067 t: 1300 654 604 Page 9 for full details.
FREE NIGHT’S STAY AT BLUE GALAH BACKPACKERS! Level 1 / 62 King William St, Adelaide t: +61 (0) 8 8231 9295 Page 80 for full details.
20% DISCOUNT ON SPACESHIPS RENTALS! Shop 3 191-201 William St, Darlinghurst t: +61 (0) 2 9213 1777 Page 8 for full details.
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FREE NIGHT’S STAY AT HABITAT HQ! 333 St Kilda Rd, St Kilda t: +61 (0) 3 9537 3777 Page 93 for full details.
Oz Map
Don’t miss out, register your Visa Bureau Platinum Card today! To be eligible for the great Visa Bureau offers and to check our current list of partners and the full terms and conditions, you MUST log on to www.visabureau.com/platinumcard and register your card within 21 days of receiving your visa confirmation. We’re always adding new discounts and information to help you get the most out of your working holiday. FREE NIGHT’S STAY AT BASE MAGNETIC ISLAND! 1 Nelly Bay Rd, Magnetic Island t: +61 (1) 1 800 242 273 FREE NIGHT’S STAY AT BASE AIRLIE BEACH RESORT! 336 Shute Harbour Rd, Airlie Beach Oz freephone: 1800 242 273 Page 57 for full details.
FREE NIGHT’S STAY AT NJOY TRAVELLERS RESORT! 141 Sheridan St, Cairns t: +61 (0) 7 4031 1088 Page 59 for full details.
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15% DISCOUNT ON WHITSUNDAYS SAILING ADVENTURES! Level 2/293 Shute Harbour Rd, Airlie Beach t: +61 (0) 7 4940 2000 Page 63 for full details.
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FREE NIGHT’S STAY AT BASE BRISBANE CENTRAL! 308 Edward St, Brisbane t: +61 (0) 7 3211 2433 Page 49 for full details.
H AU$30 DISCOUNT AND FREE TSHIRT AT SKYDIVE THE BEACH! Stuart Park, North Wollongong t: 1300 663 634 Page 46 for full details.
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H H 10% DISCOUNT ON OZ EXPERIENCE! 4-7 Eddy Ave, Sydney t: 1300 300 028 Page 8 for full details.
FREE NIGHT’S STAY AT WESTEND BACKPACKERS! 412 Pitt St, Central Sydney t: +61 (0) 2 9211 4588 Page 37 for full details.
FREE SURF LESSON AT MANLY SURF SCHOOL! North Steyne Surf Lifesaving Club, Manly t: +61 (0) 2 9977 6977 Page 45 for full details.
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Oz Essentials
YOUR VISA: Need-to-know info Your working holiday visa This visa allows you to make your initial entry into Australia no later than 12 months from the date the visa was granted. Your working holiday visa permits you to stay in Australia for 12 months from the date you first enter Australia. It provides you with ‘multiple travel’ to Australia, which means that you can leave Australia and re-enter Australia as many times as you wish during your 12 month stay. However, if you depart Australia during your 12 month stay, you are not able to recover the period of time you have spent outside Australia. Conditions of your working holiday visa It is very important that you understand and abide by your visa conditions. If you fail to abide by these conditions, your visa may be cancelled and you will be required to leave Australia. Details of the visa conditions can be found at the DIAC website at www.immi.gov.au. If you do not understand your visa conditions, please contact the Australian Visa Bureau for advice before you travel. After arrival in Australia, you may seek advice on any aspect of your visa conditions from the nearest DIAC office. Your DIAC office can be found by visiting the DIAC website at www.immi.gov.au.
placed in your passport, as you may have your visa information checked using the Entitlement Verification Online (EVO) service. EVO allows certain third parties (e.g. employers) to check your visa information provided they obtain your consent, which you can do by providing the third party with your name, date of birth, passport number and passport country of issue. Work rights can be verified through EVO.
Although EVO is the preferred method for checking your visa information, if you would still like a visa label placed into your passport, two options remain available:
Proof of your working holiday visa You do not need to have a visa label placed in your passport to travel to or to work in Australia. Your visa is granted electronically and is ‘attached’ to your name and passport number. However, it is recommended you print a copy of your confirmation email and have this guide for your records while you travel. You are not required to have a visa label 18
1) If you arrive through Sydney Airport you can have your visa label printed before you leave the airport. Ask to be directed to the Visa Label Desk after you have had your passport stamped. 2) You can go to the nearest Department of Immigration and Citizenship (DIAC) office in Australia. Addresses of DIAC offices in Australia are available online at www.immi. gov.au/contacts/australia/index.htm DIAC will not charge you for the visa label.
holiday visa by first emailing DIAC via evisa.whm.helpdesk@immi.gov.au.
Oz Essentials
New / lost passport If you obtain a new passport after receiving your visa confirmation email, you are required to tell DIAC immediately. Explain the change, providing details as to when and where it occurred, as your visa is linked to the passport number that you provided in your application. You can contact DIAC via evisa.whm.helpdesk@immi.gov.au or the Australian Visa Bureau Helpdesk via helpdesk@visabureau.com for advice if this is the case.
You are in Australia
Cancelling your working holiday visa If your situation changes and you do not want to/cannot use your working holiday visa, and: You are not in Australia As a working holiday visa can only be used once, if you find your circumstances have changed after you are granted and you want to postpone your working holiday but you still need to travel to Australia for a brief visit, you should apply for a short stay visitor visa (subclass 600). This will cancel your working holiday visa, which means you will be able to re-apply for another working holiday visa at a later stage. The application can be made by post, but online eVisa lodgements are also available and encouraged by the Australian government. The Australian government does not issue refunds.
Once you have entered Australia as the holder of a working holiday visa, you cannot be granted another one, even if you did not stay in Australia for the full 12 months allowed; this is a matter of Australian law. Another first working holiday visa cannot be granted to you, irrespective of why you had to leave Australia, even if there are special or compassionate circumstances. However, a second working holiday visa can be awarded (see following page for more information), provided you have worked for a minimum of three months as a seasonal worker in regional Australia and continue to satisfy the working holiday eligibility requirements. You may request cancellation of your working holiday visa by emailing DIAC at evisa.whm.helpdesk@immi.gov.au. You may also contact the Visa Bureau Help Desk at helpdesk@visabureau.com for advice.
If you cancel and re-apply for a working holiday visa, you will be required to pay the Australian government fees again. You also have the option of applying for an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) visa (subclass 976). However, doing so would require you to request the cancellation of their working 19
Oz Essentials
Second Year Visa: Get yours If you’re knee deep into your working holiday, the prospect of coming home can loom a lot larger than you might have hoped. However, if you’re determined to stay in Oz as long as possible, you can apply for a second year on your working holiday by completing what’s known as a ‘specified work in regional Australia’ requirement. What is ‘specified work’? There are a few different industries you can work in to qualify yourself for a second year visa including farming or tractor driving and construction jobs. A full list of eligible jobs can be found on the Visa Bureau website @ www.visabureau.com/specified-work However, the most common jobs people look for are fruit picking or other farm jobs. Before you go straight to the nearest farm or building site though, remember you have to do your specified work in a regional area of Australia. What areas count as ‘regional Australia’? Australia is a big country and outside of the main cities, lots of places count as regional. A full list of postcodes regarded as regional can be found on the Visa Bureau website @ www.visabureau.com/regional-australia A good rule of thumb though is that all of the Northern Territory, South Australia and Tasmania are regarded as regional and most places an hour or so outside of major cities are also considered to be regional. Note: If you want to get your second year visa, make sure that any position is both in a regional area of Australia and on the list of specified work before starting work. The Australian government will not grant any extensions for you to complete your 88 days.
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Finding specified work in regional Australia While a number of websites list farm work in Australia, the nature of the work and the remote locations mean old fashioned ways of applying in person or over the phone from nearby can put you in much better stead. However, we don’t like leaving our backpackers fighting against everyone else so we dedicated our twitter feed to helping you guys find second year visa eligible jobs. You can find us @workholidayblog on twitter or search the hashtag #SeasonalWork. How do I apply for my second year visa? In order to apply for your second year visa, you will need to prove to the Australian government that you have done your work requirement with evidence, like: • bank statements covering the entire period of your claimed specified work • receipts (bus tickets, accommodation) • Payslips • Tax returns • Employer references on official letterhead Note: A bank statement covering the entire period of your claimed specified work is the most efficient form of evidence, even if you worked in a voluntary capacity e.g. unpaid work or if you were paid cash-in-hand. When should I apply? We recommend you file your application at least 28 days before your first year visa expires to ensure that any delays in processing time etc. are dealt with. How do I apply? You will need to send your evidence proving you have completed your work requirement, along with Form 1263 to 2ndwhv@visabureau.com. You can find Form 1263 @ www.visabureau.com/form-1263
Oz Essentials
AUSTRALIAN VISA HOTLINE: aka “I don’t want to go home!” Love it too much to leave? We can help you out... If you fall in love with the country and the Aussie lifestyle after your Australian working holiday and can’t bear to go back to Blighty, you wouldn’t be the first. Fortunately, we’re on hand to help out, with our Australian Freephone visa hotline available to give you an idea of your options to stay out there permanently! Work visa Qualifying for a work visa can be done in a number of ways, with the most common example being you demonstrate that you have a job offer from an approved Australian employer. However, there are other methods of application. Skilled migration The skilled migration category offers skilled individuals the opportunity to gain permanent residence in Australia by helping to boost the Australian skilled workforce.
Migration under this category follows a stepby-step application process, from the initial assessment of ability to the settlement stage in Australia. The first step should be taking the Australian immigration points test. Family visa Do you have a family member already out in Australia as a permanent resident? Just make sure that they are eligible to sponsor you under the current family visa requirements on www.visabureau.com. To find out more, complete an online eligibility test or call the visa hotline.
NEED EMPLOYMENT VISA, FAMILY VISA OR OTHER IMMIGRATION ADVICE ONCE YOU’RE IN AUSTRALIA? CALL OUR VISA HOTLINE ON *
1800 802 860
* FREEPHONE ONLY FOR USE IN AUSTRALIA. FOR CALLING INTERNATIONALLY, CALL +61 (0) 86 365 0060.
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EMERGENCY: Call Triple Zero Phoning the Police, Fire or Ambulance service Triple Zero (000) is Australia’s primary emergency service number and should be used if urgent emergency assistance is required from police, fire or ambulance services. You should only call Triple Zero (000) when a situation is threatening to life or property, or time-critical. If a situation is not urgent but does need the attention of an emergency service organisation, you should obtain the number of your local police, fire or ambulance service from the phone book or by calling directory assistance. Calls to Triple Zero (000) are free from any kind of phone. Australia also has two secondary emergency service numbers for use only in connection with particular technologies: • 112 is the GSM international standard emergency number which can only be dialled on a digital mobile phone. • 106 is the text-based emergency number for people who have a hearing or speech impairment. This service operates using a textphone (TTY) or a computer with modem access. What to expect when you call Triple Zero (000) When you dial Triple Zero (000) you will first hear the recorded message "You have dialled emergency Triple Zero. Your call is being connected." Your call will then be answered by an operator who will ask whether you require police, fire or ambulance. Depending on
whether you are using a mobile, fixed line, voice over internet protocol (VoIP) service or a payphone to call Triple Zero (000), you may also be asked to provide details of the state and town you are calling from. The operator will then connect you to the emergency service organisation you have requested and will stay on the line until the call is answered. When you call Triple Zero (000) from a land line the address details that are stored in the Integrated Public Number Database will automatically appear on the operator’s screen and be passed on to the emergency service organisation, therefore your location is automatically known to the operator, although you may still be asked to confirm what town and state you are calling from. However, if you call Triple Zero (000) from a mobile phone or VoIP service your exact location is not automatically available to the operator. This is because your home or billing address stored in the IPND may not be the location from which you are calling. You will therefore need to provide the operator with as much information about the location of the emergency, including the town/suburb and state.
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Help for British Nationals The UK maintains a permanent High Commission in Canberra as well as a network of regional offices to provide support to British nationals visiting or living in Australia. Canberra - British High Commission Commonwealth Avenue Yarralumla ACT 2600 t: (+61) (0) 2 6270 6666 Sydney Level 16 Gateway Building 1 Macquarie Place Sydney, NSW 2000 t: (+61) (0) 2 9247 7521 Brisbane Level 26 Waterfront Place 1 Eagle Street Brisbane 4000 t: (+61) (0) 7 3223 3200 Melbourne 17th Floor 90 Collins Street Victoria t: (+61) (0) 3 9652 1600
Cairns PO Box 65 Smithfield 4878 t: (+61) (0) 4 2774 4269 Darwin 30 The Mall (via Austin Lane) Northern Territory 0800 t: (+61) (0) 8 8941 6130 Help for Irish nationals The Embassy of Ireland in Canberra operates an out-of-hours service for Irish citizens requiring emergency assistance. If you are in need of emergency assistance, please ring the Embassy at (+61) (0) 2 6273 3022 and leave a message. The answering machine is monitored regularly, and the Duty Officer will contact you as soon as possible. When you leave a message, remember to state your name, the nature of the problem, where you are now, and the details of how the Duty Officer can contact you (please leave your mobile phone number, or the phone number of the hotel/hostel where you are staying).
Adelaide 444-446 Pulteney Street SA 5000 t: (+61) (0) 3 9652 1600
Canberra - Embassy of Ireland 20 Arkana Street Yarralumla Canberra ACT 2600 t: (+61) (0) 2 6214 0000
Hobart 1A Brisbane Street Hobart 7000 t: (+61) (0) 3 9652 1600
Sydney - Consulate General of Ireland Level 26, 1 Market Street Sydney NSW 2000 t: (+61) (0) 2 9264 9635
Perth Level 26 Allendale Square 77 St George's Terrace Western Australia 6000 t: (+61) (0) 8 9224 4700
Perth - Honorary Consul of Ireland P.O. Box 25 Aberdeen St Perth WA 6865 t: (+61) (0) 8 9385 8247
Alice Springs PO Box 4734 Northern Territory 8071 t: (+61) (0) 4 3884 7007
Oz Essentials
EMBASSY CONTACTS: Who to call when in difficulty
Other embassies in Australia A list of all foreign embassies and their contact details in Australia can be found at www.defat.gov.au/embassies.html. 23
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YOUR AUSTRALIAN SIM CARD: Using your mobile Down Under Still need to get your Australian SIM Card? You can request one online by going to www.visabureau.com/simcard before you leave for Australia and you can activate it using the info in the certificate the SIM card was attached to. However, before you can use the SIM card, you need to ensure your phone is unlocked for use Down Under so take a look at our handy guide below!
UNLOCKING YOUR PHONE
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What is unlocking and why would I want my phone unlocked?
How do I unlock my phone before I leave? on Columbus Direct insurance
Mobile phone unlocking involves removing the restrictive lock that networks place on mobile phones. Removing the lock is not illegal, and once done will allow you to benefit from other network services.
1. Visit your local mobile phone store before you leave. Certain Nokia models, as well as other popular makes like Apple, Samsung, LG, Nokia and Sony Ericsson cannot be unlocked remotely, and you will therefore need to visit a local mobile-phone sales and repair shop. An independent mobile phone store will be able to unlock your phone for a small fee while you wait. You can see the page on www.visabureau.com/ simcard for links to places to find one in your area. Expect to pay around £5-£10 and don't be afraid to shop around! OR;
How do I know if my phone is locked?
2. Send your handset off to an unlocking specialist. Many mobile phone unlocking companies offer a postal service, but please remember to send your handset via a traceable service and make sure it is insured. They may also send you an unlocking clip to unlock your phone. OR;
Simple. Try putting a SIM card (the small plastic card inside your mobile which is about the size of a postage stamp) from another network into your phone and switching it on. If you are able to make calls, congratulations, your phone is unlocked. If a message appears, saying "SIM card not accepted, insert correct SIM card" or similar, it will need to be unlocked.
3. Ask your UK network. If you have been with your UK network for 12 months or more (3 months with Virgin and they'll unlock it for free) then they will be able to send you an unlocking code, but this may take a while and involve several phone calls. They will also charge you a premium for this service of around £20-£30 as they do not want to encourage you to use other network SIM cards.
Oz Essentials
How do I unlock my mobile phone when in Australia? You can unlock your phone in Australia, but it will incur a small fee with your network provider. For example, Vodafone require a basic fee of $50 to unlock your handset at anytime, reduced to $25 if you obtain your unlock code using their website, plus an additional $50 to unlock your phone within six months of purchase.
Unlocking your phone Q & A Q: Will I be able to use the phone on my original network? A: Yes, you will be able to use your phone on any network which your phone supports. For example, if you have an iPhone and you have it unlocked, you will then be able to use it with any GSM network in the world. Please refer to your phone’s website for details on where your phone will work.
Q: I have received my code. When I type it in, it displays 'Code Error', 'Not Allowed' or 'Cannot undo Restriction'. A: If it comes back displaying 'Code Error', it means you have probably submitted incorrect details. Either the IMEI number or the network you selected is probably incorrect. Do NOT try entering the codes repeatedly. If your phone displays 'Not Allowed' or 'Cannot undo Restriction', the counter in the phone is probably locked. You will need to get the phone unlocked by an unlocking specialist.
USEFUL OZ PHONE INFO: Need-to-know info & numbers Mobile Phone Unlocking Shops You won’t find many mobile phone unlocking shops in Australia, but they are creeping in. It's not illegal to use the services of an independent mobile unlocking service, but we wouldn’t recommend this because you may be voiding your phone’s warranty. Differences between using your mobile in the UK and Australia
card is about the same as it is here; expect to pay about $15 for a SIM card and phonecard top-ups are in price brackets of $10, $20 and $30.
Emergency Numbers Embassies and consulates: UK (Sydney): +61 (0) 2 9247 7521 Ireland (Sydney): +61 (0) 2 9231 6999 Police, ambulance and fire: 000 or 112
It’s important to know that Australia’s digital network is compatible only with mobiles with the frequency bands of GSM 900 and 1800. The vast majority of UK mobiles will be compatible, but it might be worth checking before you get out there. Also, in contrast to the many phone networks that populate Blighty, Australia only has three: Vodafone, Telstra and Optus. The cost of topping-up or changing your SIM
Royal Flying Doctors: 24 hr medical number: +61 (0) 7 4743 2802 Area Phone Codes ACT: 02 New South Wales: 02 Northern Territory: 08 Queensland: 07
South Australia: 08 Tasmania: 03 Victoria: 03 Western Australia: 08
To call from Australia to the UK, exchange the first ‘o’ in a number for 0011 44. 25
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WORKING IN OZ: Makin' money Land of Opportunity With unemployment at its lowest level for years, the opportunity for work in Australia has never been better. There are good wages on offer for hard workers, and reasonable living costs mean there are plenty of positive job prospects. There is great demand in particular for seasonal workers to help with Australia’s huge agricultural sector. However, even if you don’t fancy a year in the great outdoors picking fruit, there are plenty of opportunities for working holiday makers seeking a job in office work, customer service or retail. Recruitment agencies won’t be snobbish just because you’re not an Aussie - all they’re fussed about is that you’ve got the right skills. For details of individual agencies, check our regional listings or our web directory for online assistance.
Tax doesn’t have to be taxing Getting a Tax File Number (TFN) Required by employers, a Tax File Number is vital for any traveller to Australia looking to gain employment. It’s not the most exciting thing to sort out, but thankfully, it’s a snap to get it done. The application process may take up to 20 minutes to complete, and applying online means you do not have to provide physical documentation as proof of identity. However, one requirement is that you have to currently be in Australia when you apply. To get started once you’re in Oz, just go online to our page at www.visabureau.com/ australia/tfn.aspx. There are links to the online application through the Australian Taxation Office, complete with step-by-step instructions.
Don’t leave without yours! Claim AU$2,500 with Super Tax Refunds! When you work in Australia, your employer is required to pay superannuation on your behalf. However, when you leave Australia, you’re entitled to that money back. Visa Bureau works with Super Tax Refunds to make sure that you get it. Coming home might be the last thing on your mind but to claim superannuation back you need to keep hold of documents. As you’ll probably be living out of a bag sometimes, 8 month old work slips are likely to get lost. Super Tax Refunds set up a free Australia mailbox for you where you can send everything you’ll need. Instruct your employers to send documents to: Free Mailbox PO Box 1335 Broadbeach QLD 4218 To find out more, go to: www.visabureau.com/tax-refund.aspx
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You can open a bank account in Australia before you leave the UK. You can set up an Australian bank account from the UK with Commonwealth Bank, allowing you to transfer money to Australia before you arrive. The online application at www.visabureau.com/australia/banking.aspx makes opening a bank account really quick and easy, so why not apply today!
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OPENING A BANK ACCOUNT: Open it before you leave!
Opening an account Go to www.visabureau.com/australia/banking.aspx (or www.visabureau.com/platinumcard) The application is quick and easy, and applicants will receive confirmation of their account being opened within two business days, so you can begin transferring money into your new Australian account before you arrive. Once you are in Australia Your new Australian bank account will be activated as soon as you are identifed in your nominated Commonwealth Bank in Australia, and a debit card will be waiting for you on your arrival. You can also contact the Commonwealth Bank today for more information: Web: www.commbankuk.co.uk/australian_bank_accounts/?tid=visabureau01 Phone: +44 (0)845 074 2657 Email: commbankuk@cba.com.au (quoting Visa Bureau) Important Information: Commonwealth Bank of Australia ABN 123 123 124 is incorporated with limited liability, registered in England No. BR250 and authorised and regulated in the UK by the Financial Services Authority. Visa Bureau and Commonwealth Bank of Australia are separate entities who have entered into a commission sharing agreement. For all enquires on bank accounts and applications, please contact the Commonwealth Bank of Australia.
DISCOUNT TRAVEL INSURANCE: Get a 15% discount! 15% discount on Columbus Direct insurance While we’re confident you’ll have the time of your life in Australia, one thing that’d be sure to spoil your stay is having an accident, doing yourself some damage and then having to pay hefty bills as a result. Fortunately, we’ve partnered with Columbus Direct to offer you a great deal on your travel insurance. They provide top quality cover at low prices so you don’t have to compromise. And as a Visa Bureau client you’ll receive a 15% discount on all travel insurance policies. Get an instant online quote at: www.visabureau.com/australia/travel-insurance-australia.aspx Alternatively, go to www.visabureau.com/platinumcard for further information 27
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Training Courses: The mandatory training you need to work in Oz! William Angliss Institute: NSW Get the training, get a job! Want a job in the hospitality industry during your stay in Sydney/New South Wales? Need to update your current qualifications to get up to speed? Just trying something new on your working holiday? Get the training you need with The William Angliss Institute. Their face-to-face training covers bar work, gambling, and working with food, ensuring you’re qualified to start work and earn that holiday money.
Bar work - RSA Certificate In NSW, the RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) certificate is compulsory for anyone looking to work in the liquor industry, including licensees, club secretaries, permanent and casual serving staff and security staff. However, it MUST be granted from an Office of Liquor, Gaming & Racing (OLGR) approved provider, which includes The William Angliss Institute.
Working around gambling RCG certificate The RCG (Responsible Conduct of Gambling) certificate is compulsory for anyone working around poker machines and assisting gamblers and gaming patrons. As most bars in Sydney and NSW also have on-site gambling machines, it is necessary to have this certificate too when seeking bar work.
Working with Food - Food Safety Supervisors Course The Food Safety Supervisors Course is compulsory for anyone working in hospitality or retail handling food. Additionally, as a Visa Bureau Platinum Card holder, you will receive a 10% DISCOUNT. 28
How to get your 10% discount To get a 10% discount on any course, go to shortcourses.angliss.edu.au, click on the Compliance Area and, once you've added your courses and you’re on the shopping cart page, enter the coupon code 23871922 in the coupon field and click 'Update cart'. You'll then see the price update with the 10% discount applied so you can complete payment and book your courses! For further information on how to get trained up with The William Angliss Institute, visit the Platinum Card wesite at www.visabureau.com/platinumcard.
Oz Essentials
Hospitality, bar-work and construction are among the most popular industries for casual and temporary workers in Australia. However, there are mandatory training requirements that need to be met before you can work in these sectors. Many of these requirements can be met by taking courses with The William Angliss Institute and QHI. The William Angliss Institute provides training to meet the requirements of New South Wales, while QHI covers the rest of Australia.
QHI: All Australia (except NSW) The online Australian training course specialists Specialising in online courses for the whole of Australia (except for New South Wales), Quality Hospitality International is a registered training organisation that offers both face-to-face training and online courses. QHI offers the following courses, with each course helping the individuals comply with the specific requirements of the industry.
Bar work - RSA Certificate In Tasmania, Western Australia, Queensland, Northern Territory and South Australia, the RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) certificate is compulsory for anyone looking to work in an off-licence/bottle shop, and highly recommended for all liquor service staff (as well as waiters and bar staff ). NOTE: Victoria specific RSA requirements The national accredited RSA certificate is suitable for all those working in the hospitality and serving industry. However, those working with packaged liquor must complete a face-to-face course to get the Liquor Licensing Victoria Certificate.
Food service - Food Hygiene Health Sector Certificate/ Food Safety Supervisors Training The Food Safety Standards require food businesses in Australia to ensure that food handlers and supervisors of food handling operations within their businesses are fully trained. This course is essential for all staff working with food products in the hospitality industry, retail, bars and clubs with restaurants, hotels and cafés, educating them on the health and hygiene requirements.
Construction - Blue Card (health and safety training for WA only) For the online safety induction training course for construction workers in WA (i.e. the Blue Card), visit QHI's partner site TrainMeOnline via the link on the Platinum Card site (www.visabureau.com/platinumcard). Workers on construction sites in Western Australia (e.g. builders and labourers) need to complete a ‘Safety Induction Training’ before they can work legally on site. NOTE: As part of the Safety Induction Training Blue Card training course, you will be contacted to verify your knowledge of the course materials after you have completed it. This will happen upon your arrival in Australia and will be conducted over the phone. Therefore, we typically advise that you do not take the online Safety Induction Training course until you are onshore in Australia, so that the training information will still be fresh in your mind when you are contacted to answer questions regarding your training. For further information on how to get trained up with QHI and to both complete online courses or book face-to-face training, see their further details on our site at www.visabureau.com/platinumcard. 29
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FINDING WORK: Harvest trail Get ready to roll up your sleeves! If you are looking for seasonal work, there is no easier place to find it than in Australia, and working on the harvest trail can earn you great money. There’s a large variety of fruit and veg grown all over Australia, meaning there are plenty of chances to score a job! If you can hack the heat, just follow the thousands of other backpackers around Australia on the famous Harvest Trail. From picking ginger near the golden beaches of Queensland’s Sunshine Coast to pruning vines in South Australia’s Barossa Valley, the Harvest Trail has something to offer every traveller. Just choose your own adventure and who knows where the trail could take you. Luckily for you, the Australian government has made it incredibly easy for backpackers to find seasonal work along the Harvest Trail. All you have to do is choose the state or territory, or the time of year you want to work, jump on the Harvest Trail website and get started. The Harvest Trail website at jobsearch.gov.au/harvesttrail lists job opportunities by state and territory. You can find transport information, contact details, and accommodation information specific to each job listing. Here’s our Handy Harvest Guide with some of the fruit and veg you could be picking: 30
Handy Harvest Guide South Australia Grapes, citrus fruits and apples and pears are harvested around the Riverland, Clare Valley and Adelaide Hills from February to April. Tasmania The harvest season usually runs from December to April, but there are jobs throughout the year in crop maintanance. The ‘Apple Isle’ is famous for the crop harvested from February to April in the Huon Valley, around Burnie and Devonport. December and January is harvest time for cherries and other berries in Burnie, Meander Valley, Tamar Valley, Devonport and the Huon Valley. Victoria February to April is harvest time for apples, stone fruits, pears, grapes, citrus and berries in Victoria.
Blueberries and bananas are picked in northern New South Wales from December to January.
Find us on twitter @workholidayblog or use the hashtag #SeasonalWork for new jobs posted every week day! Horticultural work Anywork Anywhere w: www.anyworkanywhere.com Seasonal, farm, fruit picking and packing jobs all over Australia.
Oz Essentials
New South Wales Apples, stone fruits, citrus fruits and grapes are harvested in the Hunter Valley, Mudgee, Orange and Bathurst regions from February to April.
Queensland The veritable fruit bowl of Australia, Queensland grows one third of Australia’s crops! From February to April in southern Queensland melons, citrus, pineapples, grapes, and avocados are all ready for harvesting while April to August is tomato, strawberry, citrus and apple season, with pineapples still going strong. In the far north, Queensland has a long harvest season for tropical fruit with bananas, mangoes and paw paws picked from February to June, and then again from September to January with plenty of crops including lychees, melons, bananas and mangoes.
Go Harvest w: www.goharvest.com Harvest jobs in Darwin and Katherine, and Bundaberg and Stanthorpe. PickingJobs w: www.pickingjobs.com Fruit picking jobs in Australia. Web Wombat w: www.webwombat.com.au A guide to fruit picking in Australia and harvesting seasons.
Western Australia The main harvest season is September to January. Crops such as melons, vegetables and bananas are picked from September to November, while strawberries, stone fruit, apples and pears are picked from December to January.
Hot tips • Plan your trip ahead of time, Australia is a big country. Decide whether you want to stick to the coastal areas, hang around vineyards in the Hunter Valley, or head to the outback for some hardcore farmhand work. • Accommodation and transport is available in many locations, particularly during peak times, but it will make your life a whole lot easier if you organise it prior to your arrival. If you are going to the smaller towns, always make sure you have accommodation sorted
before you make the trek, because you could end up missing out. Try calling the local farmers to see what they have on offer. • Timing is essential. If you arrive before the season starts be prepared to sit back, relax and live off your savings while you wait for things to get going. Arrive too late and, well, it could very well just be your bad luck. You have been warned. • Most farms will experience extreme temperatures – just don’t forget to slap on the sunscreen and take litres of water! 31
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FINDING WORK: Hospitality Be right in the action! Working in hospitality and tourism can be very rewarding as well as offering you the chance to live in some amazing destinations. As long as you have the essential training courses under your belt and a smile, Australia is your oyster! Finding work in the hospitality and tourism industries can be surprisingly easy with plenty of jobs usually available along the east coast of Australia from September to March, and jobs in the north and north west of Australia from April to September. You could be working in the front office, in a restaurant or bar, housekeeping, or in attraction and theme parks or retail travel sales... the work is wide and varied. In contrast to harvest work, most employers will want to know about your experience and see a CV (no matter how humble), so be prepared and have one ready. Most employers will be impressed by a smartly dressed, prompt and confident applicant, so visiting the places you want to work with your details is a good way to get yourself known and working.
Don’t forget to include on your CV important qualifications, like the mandatory Responsible Service of Alcohol certificate for those serving liquor and the Food and Hygiene Certificate. If you are planning on working in the service or construction industry, make sure you’re clued up on what you need by checking the Mandatory Training Courses (pages 28, 29). The big bonus of working in the tourism and hospitality industry could mean room and board are thrown in, and your days off are spent lounging on an island or snorkelling! Most Great Barrier Reef island jobs are recruited through agencies in Cairns, Mackay, or directly through the resort website two to three months before starting dates. Most jobs ask for a minimum three month commitment. Hospitality work Signature Staff w: www.signaturestaff.com.au Temporary, casual and short term contracts in hospitality in Cairns and Far North Queensland. Seek w: www.seek.com.au Hospitality and tourism industry jobs, including housekeeping, tour guides and waiting staff. MyCareer w: www.mycareer.com.au Hospitality, travel and tourism jobs all over Australia. Voyages w: www.voyages.com.au/corporate/careers Large resort chain with locations from Ayers Rock to Brampton Island.
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Volunteering is a fairly informal process; no money changes hands between workers and hosts.
Oz Essentials
VOLUNTEERING: Work for your bed and board! Essentially, you’ll give your time and energy to helping on the farm, and in return, the host provides you with meals and accommodation. Volunteering where you work in exchange for food and lodging is called WWOOFing (Willing Workers on Organic Farms). There are also opportunities to volunteer with conservation groups and work in some beautiful areas of Australia, but these do not always offer meals or accommodation for free. Be sure to check before you sign up so you know the score. The work varies depending on what the host needs a hand with at the time, and the same goes for how long you’ll be needed. ALWAYS make sure to get in touch with your hosts beforehand; it’ll be more than a little awkward if you turn up at their door and they don’t have any need for you.
Volunteer work WWOOF (Willing Workers on Organic Farms) w: www.wwoof.com.au Information exchange for volunteer workers and the organic WWOOF host farms who offer a learning and working opportunity. HelpX w: www.helpx.net Online resource where both hosts and volunteers can register to offer either employment or their services for Australian volunteering work. Conservation Volunteers w: www.conservationvolunteers.com.au Conservation related volunteer opportunities in Australia. Short and longer term available. Includes description of current projects.
Hot tips • Be prepared to work between four to six hours a day, depending on the farm. • Arrange your stay before your arrival, and don’t just turn up at the host’s door. • Let the host know if you cannot make it by the arranged date. If you don't show up, they will be concerned about what has happened to you. They’re nice like that. • Because you are in the host's home, you must show respect for their way of life and be willing to adapt.
• Help out on the property for the agreed period each day. • Keep in mind the Department of Immigration does consider some types of volunteering (especially when food and accommodation is exchanged for labour) to be work.
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RENTING IN OZ: Your own pad Hostels will always be a working holiday maker’s best friend, but if you find you really like a city and want to stay a little longer, you might want to start renting. Sharing a place with a couple of friends (or even a few local Aussies) will also give you the chance to get a real taste of life Down Under. We all know hostels are where the action happens; backpackers are passing through looking for their next beer-drinking buddy to paint the town red with, and if you’re lucky you may even get a free feed in the morning to help you through your hangover. But at some point your funds will start screaming for help and you will need to get a job. It’s sad, but true. And that means you will have to find accommodation a little more permanent than a hostel – maybe even somewhere that has drawers? This section will hopefully guide you to finding the perfect space to rent so you can unpack your backpack, settle down with the locals, and get nice and cosy for a couple of months. Renting an apartment or unit in Australia is much the same as renting in the UK, but don’t expect all places to be furnished. You can rent apartments, flats, units, townhouses, and houses quite easily, and for fixed or indefinite periods of time. It’s going to be more expensive than just renting a room in a shared house but if you’re a group of mates or a couple, having your own space could be just the thing.
Also, be aware that each state and territory of Australia has different rental legislation so make sure you know what your rights and responsibilities are. Types of rental contracts Most landlords will ask you to sign a fixedterm contract for six to 12 months, but there are some tenancy agreements (periodic contracts) that don’t need you to sign away your holiday. It’s not a good idea to move out of a place before your lease runs out because you will be required to fork out the cash to pay rent until the end of the lease, or until the landlord finds new tenants. Plus you could have early exiting fees on top of that for administration. Don’t forget to look out for details in rental contracts – if the place is carpeted, for example, you may have to pay for a professional carpet cleaning at the end of your stay, to the tune of about AU$80. If you have a verbal contract, or a periodic contract, which means your period of lease is at your discretion, you only need to give one week’s notice. If your landlord wants you out, they have to give you 60 days’ notice.
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Oz Essentials
If you move into a share house as a subtenant (i.e. basically the other tenants rent you a room) there will be no need to sign a contract. It would be nice to give them plenty of notice though before you move out. Rental fees Real estate agents can charge a maximum fee of two weeks’ rent for a 12 month lease contract, and one week’s rent for a six month lease contract. You might also have to pay a fee for the lease agreement, plus a deposit for electricity or gas. You will also be required to pay around one month’s rent upfront, plus a bond. However, just like in the UK, the bond will amount to about two to four weeks’ worth of rent, and you will get this back at the end of your tenancy. Think of it as your reward; take care of your flat, get your bond back, and set off on another holiday with a nice wad of cash in your back pocket. If you decide to move into a shared house instead, your flatmates will most likely still ask for some rent upfront and a bond worth at least two weeks’ rent. You will also have to chip in for bills for the time you are there. Finding Accommodation Once you have decided where you want to park up, whether it is with every other Brit and his dog in Bondi or in the middle-ofnowhere with an old mate you met in the pub
last night, it will be time to start searching for your new pad. You can ask a real estate agent to help you. When you see the agent for the first time, we recommend you replace your flip-flops for your shoes and your boardies for your jeans – agents still work off first impressions and have a say as to who rents the place. When you register, you’ll also need some ID – take your passport and your driving licence or something similar. You’ll also need written references from a previous landlord or employer; if you don’t have these, try getting some character references from an old boss. Shared houses will not necessarily need references, but they will be keen to hear that you have a job (and will be able to pay rent and bills on time). Rental websites Real Estate w: www.realestate.com.au Sydney Gumtree w: sydney.gumtree.com.au Flatmates w: www.flatmates.com.au Easy Roommate w: au.easyroommate.com Rent Australia w: www.rentaustralia.com 35
Sydney
Accommodation . . . . 37-39 Employment . . . . . . . . . 40 Out & About . . . . . . . 42-44 Must-Do Activities . . 45-46
Sydney Opera House
SYDNEY: Pride of Australia For Australian first timers, Down Under virgins or cherry popping poms, nothing prepares you for the first glimpse of Sydney. Beautiful sandy beaches filled with beautifully bronzed people, the iconic Opera House gleaming in the endless sun and a nightlife that thrives through the early hours. Once you’ve sampled its cool eateries and partied with its friendly peeps, you’ll soon appreciate why Sydney-living is fast becoming the most envied in the world! Get your nose around the relatively small city of Sydney and its surrounds by doing the Harbour BridgeClimb. We’re talking harbourlife at its most extreme as you climb 200steps for a quite literally, breathtaking view. The more intrepid can scale its Egyptian-style pylons (harnessed of course), before parasailing from 130ft straight down into the Harbour. If sea-level is more your scene, then the Aussie Duck Tour is (quacking) good fun. Chugging past Sydney’s top attractions on 36
huge wheels, prepare to turn amphibian as you hit the water and glide past the white sails of Sydney Opera House. But, if you prefer a little more adventure jump aboard The Bounty boat for a hearty brunch, followed by a chance to walk the plank, just like nutty ol’ Mel Gibson did in the film of the same name. For the hip, the edgy and gorgeously gay, Paddington, (or Paddo, as it’s affectionately termed) is the place to indulge. Overflowing with street cafes, home-grown boutiques,
Sydney
kooky shops and bars, this is London’s Soho meets San Francisco’s Castro District. Once you’ve delved into the colourful mayhem of this bohemian suburb, walk to leafy Centennial Park - definitely worth a picnic stop and a spot of people watching. Surf’s up brah, and what better place to catch your first tube Down Under than at Sydney’s famous surfing haven, Bondi Beach. This is where honey-toned beach bunnies (of both sexes) soak-up the rays while surfers curl off waves. While Bondi is a far cry from the laidback beach of Manly to the north, where you can learn to ‘pop pop’ on your board at Manly Surf School, you’re sure to have a bitchin’ time in either surf-renowned suburb. For an idyllic haven, with culture to match, Jibbon in the Royal National Park is beautiful. Visit early morning or at dusk to witness one of the best preserved and richest sets of Aboriginal engraving in the area. You can opt for a guided Aboriginal bushwalk, or stroll across Sydney’s biggest national park and cool off wallowing in a freshwater hole. Bliss. Just two hours west of Sydney you’ll find an adventurers’ playground in the Blue Mountains. Bushwalking, mountain biking,
Surfing horse-riding, rock climbing, or just breathing in the fresh eucalyptus air; this is the place to run, jump and let loose. If you start getting the city jitters, then Katoomba town has a cool vibe, with trendy cafés and bars aplenty. Sydney Visitor Centre 33 Wheat Road, Darling Harbour Oz freephone: 1800 067 676 t: +61 (0) 2 9240 8788 e: visitorinformation@shfa.nsw.gov.au w: www.visitnsw.com.au Opening hours: 9.30am - 5.30pm (except Christmas Day and Good Friday)
Partner Hostel - Free Night! Nomads Westend Backpackers 412 Pitt St, Central Sydney t: +61 (0) 2 9211 4588 Oz freephone: 1800 013 186 e: bookings@westendbackpackers.com w: www.nomadshostels.com/westend/ visa-bureau-special/ From AU$27 pp/pn in a dorm. Nomads Westend Backpackers is Sydney's top hostel, featuring an amazing central location and a 24 hour reception so you can roll in whenever you like!
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FREE night’s stay upon booking four nights, exclusive to Platinum Card holders. FREE airport transfer. FREE job and travel advice. All dorms have ensuite bathrooms and climate control. Easy online booking available. 37
Sydney
Accommodation Australian Sunrise Lodge 485 King St, Newtown t: +61 (0) 2 9550 4999 w: www.australiansunriselodge.com From AU$42.25 pp/pn. Fully equipped shared kitchen and television.
White sands, blue ocean and tanned bodies Blue Parrot Backpackers 87 Macleay St, Sydney t: +61 (0) 2 9356 4888 e: bparrot@bigpond.net.au w: www.blueparrot.com.au From AU$35 pp/pn in a 10 bed mixed dorm share. Free linen, free Internet, plasma TV, laundry facilities on-site. Base Sydney 477 Kent St, Sydney Oz freephone: 1800 242 273 t: +61 (0) 2 9267 7118 e: sydney@stayatbase.com w: www.stayatbase.com From AU$29 pp/pn. Located in the heart of the city, and within walking distance to major attractions, Base Sydney features exclusive travel deals for guests and comfy, chilled-out spaces, a TV room, an Internet lounge and a fully decked-out kitchen. City Resort Hostel 103-105 Palmer St, Woolloomooloo t: +61 (0) 2 9357 3333 e: bookings@cityresort.com.au w: www.cityresort.com.au Dorms from AU$24 pp/pn. Free bread, coffee, tea and rice to keep budgets in check. Dlux Budget Hotel 30 Darlinghurst Rd, Kings Cross Oz freephone: 1800 236 213 t: +61 (0) 2 9331 7485 e: info@dluxhostel.com.au w: www.dluxbudgethotel.com.au 38
From AU$20 pp/pn in a 10 bed dorm, with a/c throughout and ensuite rooms available (some with fridges and TVs). Jolly Swagman Hostel 27 Orwell St, Kings Cross Oz freephone: 1800 805 870 t: +61 (0) 2 9358 6400 e: stay@jollyswagman.com.au w: www.jollyswagman.com.au Dorms from AU$32 pp/pn. Breakfast included, with TV, Internet and airport shuttle. Maze Backpackers 417 Pitt St, Sydney Oz freephone: 1800 813 522 t: +61 (0) 2 9211 5115 e: info@mazebackpackers.com w: www.mazebackpackers.com Budget accommodation available in 32 bed dorm. Fully equipped kitchen and TV lounge. Sinclairs Bondi 11 Bennett St, Bondi w: www.sinclairsbondi.com.au From AU$60 pp/pn. Breakfast included, rooms feature TVs and fridges.
Sydney sunset Surfside Backpackers Bondi Beach 35a Hall St, Bondi Beach t: +61 (0) 2 9365 4900 e: bondi@surfsidebackpackers.com.au w: www.surfsidebackpackers.com.au From AU$26 pp/pn in a 12 bed dorm share. Breakfast included, with free linen and sporting equipment use, as well as a pool, job advice and assistance for travellers. Y Hotel Hyde Park 5-11 Wentworth Avenue, Sydney CBD Oz freephone: 1800 994 994 t: +61 (0) 2 9264 2451
BIG Hostel 212 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills Oz freephone: 1800 212 244 t: +61 (0) 2 9281 6030 w: www.bighostel.com From AU$30 pp/pn in 8 bed dorm share. Breakfast included, restaurant, linen, TV, and air conditioning. Bondi Backpackers 110 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach Oz freephone: 1800 304 660 t: +61 (0) 2 9130 4660 w: www.bondibackpackers.com.au From AU$25 pp/pn in a 6 bed dorm. Breakfast included, free linen, TV lounge, free Internet and fridges in all rooms. Boardrider Backpacker & Budget Motel Rear 63, The Corso, Manly t: +61 (0) 2 9977 6077 e: info@boardrider.com.au w: www.boardrider.com.au Dorms from $27 pp/pn. Internet, linen and other amenities inc. Woodduck Boomerang Backpackers 141 William St, Kings Cross Oz freephone 1800 266 636 t: +61 (2) 8354 0488 e: info@boomerangbackpackers.com w: www.boomerangbackpackers.com From AU$28 pp/pn in 10-12 bed dorm. Breakfast included, with Internet and TV onsite and best of all, beer vouchers for plenty of local bars! Sydney Globe Backpackers 40 Darlinghurst Rd, Kings Cross Oz freephone: 1800 806 384 e: info@sydneyglobebackpackers.com w: www.sydneyglobebackpackers.com From AU$20 pp/pn in 12 bed mixed dorm. Breakfast included, hand basin in all rooms, TV lounge, Internet, free linen, and air conditioning in some rooms.
Kangaroo Bakpak 665 South Dowling St, Surry Hills t: +61 (0) 2 9319 5915 w: www.kangaroobakpak.com.au FRooms available in 6 or 8 bed dorms, lock boxes included with all beds. Internet, airport shuttle, free linen, and buses to Bondi, Coogee and city right outside front door.
Sydney
e: res@yhotel.com.au w: www.yhotel.com.au From AU$37 pp/pn including breakfast. Lots to do with an on-site cafĂŠ, comfy lounge and Internet kiosk.
The harbour from the air Original Backpackers 160 Victoria St Oz freephone: 1800 807 130 t: +61 (0) 2 9356 3232 e: info@originalbackpackers.com.au w: www.originalbackpackers.com.au From AU$26 pp/pn in 10 bed dorm. Female only dorms available, laundry facilities, TV, Internet, security lockers, free linen, and a fridge, fan and heater in every room. The Palms Backpackers 23 Hughes St, Potts Point Oz freephone: 1800 737 773 t: +61 (0) 2 9357 1199 e: thepalms@thepalmsbackpackers.com w: www.thepalmsbackpackers.com From AU$10 pp/pn in a 10 bed dorm. TV, breakfast inc., linen, Internet. City Central Backpackers 707 George St t: +61 (0) 2 9211 9999 e: budget@ccbackpack.com.au w: www.ccbackpack.com.au From $28 in 6 bed dorm. Internet, linen, TV with Foxtel, and job assistance.
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Sydney
Employment Agencies Adecco 27-31 Hunter St t: +61 (0) 2 9244 3400 e: sydney@adecco.com.au w: www.adecco.com.au Nationwide recruitment agency. TalentOptions Level 12, 83 Clarence St t: +61 (0) 2 9221 7733 e: sydneycbd@talentoptions.com.au w: www.talentoptions.com.au Admin and office work for Sydney. Bondi cliffs Pace Personnel Suite 505, 5 Hunter St t: +61 (0) 2 9221 3833 w: www.pacepersonnel.com.au Permanent and temporary work in office support, customer service, HR and more.
Health Care Australia Level 25, 680 George Street Oz freephone: 1300 422 247 w: www.healthcareaustralia.com.au Healthcare recruitment agency offering positions nationwide. Seasonal Tumbarumba Blueberry Producers 134 Taradale Road, Tumbarumba t: +61 (0) 2 6649 2784 w: www.tumbaberry.com.au Blueberry harvest takes place from lateDecember to early February. 36 hectares spread over 2 farms, both within easy access to town.
Sexy Sydney night-time Hays Level 11, Chifley Tower, 2 Chifley Square t: +61 (0) 2 8226 9600 e: sydney@hays.com.au w: www.hays.com.au Recruitment agency offering full and part time positions across most industries. BND Appointments Level 57, 19 Martin Place t: +61 (0) 2 8004 9974 e: contact@bndappointments.com.au w: www.bndappointments.com.au Specialist recruitment agency offering clerical, IT, customer service and call centre positions. 40
Jolly Berries 181 Wagga Rd, Tumbarumba t: +61 (0) 4 2776 0446 Blueberry producer offering seasonal employment. Apply online. Everlasting Agriculture PO Box 1115, Shepparton e: contactus@eamanagement.com.au w: www.eamanagement.com.au Management company that helps farms and orchards in Victoria and NSW and backpackers find each other. Register online for fruit picking, thinning and pruning jobs. For more employment information and resources, as well as a number of Australian backpacker specific job sites, check the Web Directory on page 107.
PLATINUM
to book VISIT OZEXPERIENCE.COM Visit V isit visabureau.com/platinumcard for more information about our of offer. ffer fer. T&C’s: Promo code must be entered at the time of booking to receive the discount. TToo book this of T&C’s: offer ffer fer please call 1300 300 028 (within (w Australia), visit ozexperience.com or a Greyhound/Oz Experience TTravel ravel Centre. ntre. Of Offer ffer fer is subject to change at any time without notice. Standard Greyhound G terms and conditions of travel apply. apply.
Sydney
Out & About Pubs & Bars AB Hotel 225 Glebe Point Rd, Glebe Great surroundings at the AB, with 7 different areas each with its own theme. Opulant decor, designer furniture and AB’s own signature lager made in the style of a light German pilsner. Australian Hotel 100 Cumberland St, The Rocks The distinctive wedge shape of The Australian and its closeness to the Harbour Bridge make it an easy-to-find destination in Sydney. Very popular, so getting a seat inside might be a challenge, but there’s plenty of seats outside for those warm Oz nights. The Clock Hotel 470 Crown St, Surry Hills A stylish, upscale bar to while away those evenings. Sit on the balcony and sample the delights of an exquisite cocktail with your beloved, your betrothed or just your mate Steve. The Bridge Hotel 119 Victoria Road A favourite for Sydney locals for some late night boozing, with the pub keeping the party going into the late night. You can rock on here and chill out after a local gig in comfort.
Friend in Hand 58 Cowper St, Glebe Art-deco style pub, with memorabilia and various other frippery crammed in from wall to wall for a unique drinking experience.
The Hero of Waterloo The Hero of Waterloo 81 Lower Fort St A local Rocks landmark, this historic pub has been providing good cheer for 160 years and has some of the most unique features of any pub you’ll go to in Sydney. Downstairs there are the old cells that convicts were kept in and, if you ask the bartender nicely, he’ll show you the tunnel that leads straight to the Harbour waters which was used for the involuntary recruitment of sailors and rum smuggling back in the day. There is also live music, ghost tours and great food. Small Bar 48 Erskine St Upscale bar with a pleasantly chilled vibe. Boutique beers and a wide selection of posh wines to try. Red Oak Boutique Beer Café 201 Clarence St, Sydney Micro-brew beers and the accordion are on hand at the Red Oak Boutique Beer Café to help get you in the knee-slapping Bavarian spirit. Boutique Belgian and German influenced beers are the order of the day, but be prepared to pay more than usual.
Neon Sydney street Civic Hotel 388 Pitt St (cnr Goulburn St) Retro 1940s-style pub with attractive surroundings and plenty of entertainment from regular live music to club sessions and jazz nights. 42
Three Wise Monkeys 555 George St (cnr Liverpool St) Get right in the thick of it in this fashionable pub located in Sydney's cool Haymarket district. Caters to trendy young locals as well as the more image-conscious members of the backpacker crowd.
Restaurants & Cafés
Arq Sydney 16 Flinders St, Darlinghurst One of the largest venues in the city hosting premier gay events and nights.
Lucio Pizzeria 248 Palmer Street, Darlinghurst Simple, cheap and genuine, Lucio’s frequently tops tables of the best places to eat in Sydney.
Sydney
Clubs
Aqua Dining cnr Paul & Northcliff Sts, Milsons Point Amazing positon above the Olympic-sized swimming pool next to the Harbour Bridge, Aqua Dining loves exciting (albeit a bit expensive) modern cooking.
Mardi Gras partiers The Arthouse 275 Pitt St, Sydney A dynamic space that creates a vibrant and energetic venue to reflect the cosmopolitan and cultural society of Sydney today. Home Night Club 101 Wheat Road, Darling Harbour One of the best clubs in Sydney, with great music from regular DJs and open areas on the top floor for chilling out. Funky lighting keeps the mood cool too. Shark Hotel 127 Liverpool St, Sydney Since opening in the late ‘90s, the Shark Hotel has gone on to establish itself as one of the Sydney CBD's busiest and favourite party venues, with a diverse clientele to keep the atmosphere lively and fun.
Bel Mondo Gloucester Walk (up Argyle Stairs from Argyle St) This Italian restaurant has an open kitchen, so you can watch your food being prepared in front of you. A little expensive and quite hard to find, but worth it for the experience. Beppi's 21 Yurong St, East Sydney Well-priced, traditional Italian restaurant, considered one of the best in the Little Italy district of Sydney. Diethnes 336 Pitt St, Hyde Park Greek restaurant with the usual fare like moussaka and lamb casserole, as well as tasty Greek coffee and treats like Baklava for afterwards. Busy but friendly.
Tank 252 George St, Sydney The multi-award winning dance nightclub has two levels of music for Sydney's night-time tribes, and it’s becoming a preferred destination for clubbers and international DJs alike. Pacha Club 330 George St, Sydney With 10 bars spread over four levels, if you can’t enjoy everythign Pacha has to offer maybe you should just stay in. Sydney by night 43
Sydney
Oxford Social 135 Oxford St, Bondi Junction Good wholesome food at great value prices, the Oxford Social is quickly and quietly forging itself a reputation as one of Sydney’s best eateries. Golden Century 393-399 Sussex Street Chinese-style seafood served up in a bustling atmosphere which stays open well into the wee hours. Harry’s Cafe De Wheels 431 Church St A late night tradition of dining with pies and peas, pasties, hot dogs, and sausage rolls all served with a smile.
Minato 47 East Esplanade, Manly Cheap and cheerful Japanese dining next to the beach. Just make sure you don't get sand in your sushi. Sean's Panorama 270 Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach Eccentric wee eatery on Bondi Beach's north end, with a modern Aussie menu ideal for brekkie, lunch or dinners. The Summit Level 47, Australia Square, 264 George St This revolving restaurant has spectacular views and astonishing quasi-futuristic surroundings which make this restaurant one of the best dining experiences in town. The Wharf Pier 2, Hickson Rd, Walsh Bay Suitably named restaurant in casual surroundings propped out over the water, serving an interesting mix of food. Yoshii 115 Harrington St Classy, award-winning Japanese cuisine for when you’re feeling a little fancier. Sheer elegance is the order of the day here.
Harbourside dining Longrain 85 Commonwealth St, Surry Hills Set in an enormous 100-year-old warehouse, Longrain has a fun atmosphere and some tasty Thai/Chinese fusion going on.
Zaaffran Level 2, Harbourside Shopping Centre, Darling Harbour A well-respected and awarded 5-star Indian restaurant, but reasonable prices will keep you coming back for the traditional Indian fare with a contemporary edge.
Machiavelli 123 Clarence St Mamma mia! Awful stereotypes aside, this big ol’ Italian place is one of the city’s best restaurants and where the powerful and elite mix. If you’re cashed up the antipasto is especially good. The Malaya 39 Lime St, King St Wharf, Darling Harbour Dine inside or al fresco at this authentic Malaysian eatery, home to what’s referred to as the ‘best laksa in town’. 44
Al fresco eats
Luna Park 1 Olympic Drive, Milsons Point t: +61 (0) 2 9033 7676 w: www.lunaparksydney.com Take a trip to Sydney's most famous theme park and enter the magical world of 1930’s amusements. Take on crazy rides like the Tango Train and Tumble Bug, and nostalgic favourites like the superbly restored Carousel. A bit rickety, but very good fun.
Sydney
Must-Do Activities Australian Museum 6 College St (opposite Hyde Park) t: +61 (0) 2 9320 6000 w: www.australianmuseum.net.au As Australia’s best natural history museum, this is a great place to learn about Aboriginal life, with permanent features on subjects like human evolution, dinosaurs and a skeleton room competing with exciting temporary exhibitions and natural history. BridgeClimb Sydney 3 Cumberland St, The Rocks t: +61 (0) 2 8274 7777 w: www.bridgeclimb.com As much a Sydney icon as the Opera House, Sydney Harbour Bridge is a great chance to stretch your climbing skills as you scale it with BridgeClimb Sydney. With spectacular views of the city once you reach the top, there are few better ways to get a unique Sydney experience.
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Scale: 1 to about a billion Bass & Flinders Cruises Cockle Bay Marina, Darling Harbour t: +61 (0) 2 9583 1199 e: info@whalewatchingsydney.com.au w: www.whalewatchingsydney.net Get right amongst the giant whales as they migrate up and down the coast off Sydney from late May to early Dec. One of the most experienced whale-watching operators who and are fully-certified for ecologically sustainable tourism. Bass and Flinders have a 98% success rate in spotting whales and offer a ‘Whale Guarantee’: see whales on your cruise or come back with them until you do.
Manly Surf School North Steyne Surf Club, Manly t: +61 (0) 2 9977 6977 e: bookings@manlysurfschool.com w: www.manlysurfschool.com Manly Surf School is based on beautiful Manly beach and has been voted by Surfing Australia as the Number 1 Surf School in New South Wales. Their team of friendly, Surfing Australia qualified instructors are there to help you get to grips with catching the waves. Plus, get a FREE surf lesson upon booking three lessons, exclusive to Platinum Card holders. Oceanworld Manly West Esplanade, Manly t: +61 (0) 2 8251 7877 e: msls@merlinentertainments.com.au w: www.oceanworld.com.au Situated on the picturesque Manly Cove Beach. Daily guided tours and live shows allow you to get up close and personal with sharks, crocodiles and the world's most dangerous snakes and spiders. 45
Sydney
10% OFF
Oz Experience Shop 4-7 Central Station, Eddy Ave, Sydney t: 1300 300 028 w: www.ozexperience.com Oz Experience’s range of packages provide the perfect way to get around Australia and discover the best the country has to offfer! What’s more, with your Visa Bureau Platinum Card, you’ll get a 10% discount on any package - just use the promo code PLATINUM when you book online at www.ozexperience.com or when you call 1300 300 028 in Australia.
Thunder Jet Jetty 1 on the Eastern Pontoon at Circular Quay (nr Sydney Opera House) t: +61 (0) 2 9299 0199 e: info@thunderjetboat.com.au w: www.thunderjetboat.com.au There's a new high-powered missile hurtling around Sydney Harbour. Called Thunder Jet, this 50 mph speedster is by far Sydney's biggest adventure jet boat. Wild fishtails, stomach-churning 270° turns and eyepopping crash stops are all part of the daily routine, and Thunder Jet passengers sit in front of the driver, where all the action is. Laser Wars Level 4, 17 Patrick St, West point Blacktown t: +61 (0) 2 8678 9453 w: www.laserwars.net.au Pew pew pew, pow pow, KABLAMMO! You might not be able to take sweets in to class on your birthday anymore but that doesn’t mean you can’t party like you’re 9 again. Get down to Laser Wars for the ultimate in the harmless fulfilment of childhood fantasies.
Scenic World cnr of Violet St & Cliff Drive, Katoomba t: +61 (0) 2 4780 0200 e: info@scenicworld.com.au w: www.scenicworld.com.au Float on air on a 720 metre journey above +F natural wonders with the world’s first ElectroRE ET Scenic Glass Floor. Ride the steepest incline -SH IRT railway in the world down to a lush and hidden valley. Skydive the Beach Sydney Sydney Tower and Skywalk Stuart Park, North Wollongong Centrepoint Podium Level, t: 1300 663 664 100 Market St e: bookings@skydivethebeach.com t: +61 (0) 2 9333 9222 w: www.skydivethebeach.com.au w: www.sydneytowereye.com.au Skydive the Beach offers NSW's only Dressed in a special protective suit and beachfront tandem skydives from 14,000 harnessed to a safety rail by a sliding cable, feet. As well as offering free return limousine you will be escorted by trained guides onto transfers from central Sydney to the drop the top of Sydney Tower and shown all the zone, Visa Bureau Platinum Card holders can city's landmarks, and if you’re feeling daring, get a $30 discount and a free t-shirt. walk onto the glass-bottomed platforms 260 Skydive the Beach operates half day trips metres directly above the city! seven days a week, from sunrise to sunset.
$30
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OFF
New South Wales’ top surf school! Taste the waves with Manly Surf School, where Visa Bureau Platinum Card holders get a free surf lesson.
t: +61 (0) 2 9977 6977 e: bookings@manlysurfschool.com Full offer details online at www.visabureau.com/platinumcard
Brisbane
Accommodation . . . . 49-51 Employment . . . . . . . . . . 39 Out & About . . . . . . . 52-54 Must-Do Activities . . . . 55
BRISBANE: Chilled-Out Paradise Living in a tropical state where sun and shine are trademark fixtures, the beaches are quite literally a Surfer’s Paradise and al fresco dining can be found everywhere, it’s not really surprising that Brisbanites are such a beaming bunch. Pacific-side Brisbane casually blends its summertime vibe with gleaming architecture and acres of parkland, as well as a stylish café, bar and club scene.
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What’s more, with endless golden-sand beaches edging this Queensland city, you’ll wonder why you’ve left it this long to visit.
Meander south of Victoria Bridge and you’ll find modern-art galleries, museums and the vibrant West End area.
What makes Brisbane so attractive is its compact and accessible size. Straddling the looping Brisbane River (think the Thames, but fatter and not as filthy), most major sights are in the CBD, or within walking distance. The pedestrianised Queen Street Mall is the bustling heart of the city; the bohemian streets of Fortitude Valley are handily north, while the surrounding Botanic Gardens and Roma Street Parkland provide a leafy escape.
For a bird’s eye-view of the city and its surrounds, skydive tandem with Brisbane Skydiving Centre, and watch breathtaking Queensland-country open up beneath you. Calling all you wheelie-kids, hire a bike from Brisbane Bicycle Sales and sightsee along clearly-marked bike tracks. The 7km route from Botanic Gardens to the University is great, with plenty of pub-stops along the way. If you’ve got the camping bug, but don’t want
Brisbane
to travel to the Darling Downs to pitch, then Brisbane Forest Park’s 28,500-hectares of wilderness is a peaceful city respite: 10km away and perfect for walkabouts and runningmad through fern forests. Nature lovers will also go bonkers for the verdant rainforests and clean rivers of beautiful Numinbah Valley. With Numinbah Valley Adventure Trails, you can get behind the saddle, (of the horse-variety) and canter til’ your thighs ache. Saddle virgins welcome.
kangaroos, possums and wombats. AU$15 will get a picture of you and the doe-eyed koala in a loving embrace. One for the Facebook profile? Passionate about sand and surf? Then load up the 4WD and ferry across to little Straddie (Stradbroke Island). Excellent surfing breaks, snorkelling trips and the incredible Eighteen Mile Beach, (open to cars and campers) makes for a thrilling camping adventure. Finally, you couldn’t come to Brisbane and not hit Surfers Paradise. Once the stomping ground for ‘60s chicks feeding parking-metres in sexy gold bikinis; this party-strip has continued to attract a gorgeous set of surf dudes and dudettes.
Out with the dolphins
Brisbane Visitor Information Centre Queen Street Mall (between Albert & Edward Sts), Brisbane t: +61 (0) 7 3006 6290 e: visit@brisbanemarketing.com.au w: www.visitbrisbane.com.au
If you’re an animal lover, or in the case of the koala, a good hugger, then you’re in for a warm treat at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Home to Australia’s home-grown animals, this huge parkland is home to 130 koalas, plus
Opening hours Monday to Thursday: 9am to 5:30pm Friday: 9am to 7pm Saturday: 9am to 5pm Sunday: 9:30am to 4:30pm
Partner Hostel - Free Night! Base Brisbane Central 308 Edward St, Brisbane Oz freephone: 1800 24 2273 t: +61 (0) 7 3211 2433 e: brisbane@stayatbase.com w: www.stayatbase.com/hostels/australiahostels/base-brisbane-central From AU$22 pp/pn in a dorm. The one and only hostel in the city centre, Base Brisbane Central is probably Brissie’s best! Secure, safe, comfy and cool, Base offers all you need for a great stay.
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FREE night’s stay upon booking four nights, exclusive to Platinum Card holders. 24 hour security and Internet access. Cable TV. On-site bar, BBQ, laundry and kitchen. Mail holding. Secure lockable cupboards in each room. Jobs club. 49
Brisbane
Accommodation Aussie Way Backpackers 34 Cricket St t: +61 (0) 7 3369 0711 e: aussieway15@hotmail.com w: www.aussiewaybackpackers.com From AU$26 pp/pn. Weekly rates available, with free pickup from Transit Centre. All rooms have a/c, ceiling fans. Swimming pool, games room and job search assistance all onsite. Blue Tongue Backpackers 515 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley Oz freephone: 1800 808 941 t: +61 (0) 7 3254 1984 w: www.bluetonguebackpackers.com.au From $22.50 pp/pn. One of the cheapest hostels in Brisbane, and there is no curfew.
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rooms, a/c, kitchen, TV and games rooms, laundry facilities, Internet, luggage storage and a tour desk.
Story Bridge at night Bunk Backpackers 11-21 Gipps St, Fortitude Valley Oz freephone: 1800 682 865 w: www.bunkbrisbane.com.au From AU$17 pp/pn. Job assistance, swimming pool and on-site bar/restaurant.
Sundown Brisbane
City Backpackers 380 Upper Roma St Oz freephone: 1800 062 572 t: +61 (0) 7 3211 3221 e: info@citybackpackers.com w: www.citybackpackers.com From AU$21 pp/pn. Rooftop swimming pool, sun-garden on roof, on-site pub, huge, modern kitchen, TV common room, 24-hour laundry.
Brisbane Backpackers Resort 110 Vulture St t: +61 (0) 7 3844 9956 e: info@brisbanebackpackers.com.au w: www.brisbanebackpackers.com.au From AU$27 pp/pn. Purpose-built backpackers resort offering cheap, highquality backpacker accommodation within walking distance of the South Bank, the Brisbane Convention Centre, and city centre.
Cloud 9 Backpackers Resort 350 Upper Roma St Oz freephone: 1800 256 839 t: +61 (0) 7 3236 2333 w: www.cloud9backpackers.com.au From AU$16 pp/pn. Situated in the heart of Brisbane, only 300 metres from the Transit Centre. Meet up with fellow travellers and swap stories whilst enjoying the amazing views from the rooftop.
Brisbane City YHA 392 Upper Roma St t: +61 (0) 7 3236 1004 e: brisbanecity@yha.com.au w: www.yha.com.au From AU$29.50 pp/pn. Centrally-located, the hostel has multi-share, twin and double
Manly Harbour Backpackers 45 Cambridge Parade, cnr Stratton Terrace, Moreton Bay Oz freephone: 1800 800 157 t: + 61 (0) 7 3396 3824 w: www.manlyharbourbackpackers.com.au From AU$15 pp/pn. Staying at Moreton Bay
Prince Consort Backpackers 230 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley t: +61 (0) 7 3252 4136 w: www.princeconsort.com.au From AU$22 pp/pn in 22 bed dorms. Internet, breakfast inc., linen, a/c, TV, bar, restaurant and on-site job helpdesk. Somewhere to Stay 47 Brighton Rd, Highgate Hill Oz freephone: 1800 812 398 t: +61 (0) 7 3846 2858 e: reception@somewheretostay.com.au w: www.somewheretostay.com.au From AU$19 pp/pn. Saltwater swimming pool, hammocks, BBQ, outdoor pool table, cable TV, courtesy pickup, Internet access.
Employment Agencies Adecco Level 19, 300 Adelaide St t: +61 (0) 7 3000 1500 w: www.adecco.com.au Internationally-known employment agency.
Brisbane
gives you access to all sorts of free stuff, like airport/train transfers, sailing tours and watersport tours and packages.
Frontline Hospitality Level 7, 320 Adelaide St t: +61 (0) 7 3310 8736 e: brisbane@frontlinehospitality.com.au w: www.frontlinehospitality.com.au A network of offices across Australia specialising in recruitment in the hospitality and tourism industries .
The Pixy Bed & Breakfast 20 Brownie Street, Jamboree Heights t: +61 (0) 4 3494 5345 w: pixybnb.secureinns.info From AU$70 pp/pn. Clean and private budget accommodation in Jamboree Heights. Outdoor pool and WiFi throughout. Continental breakfast included. Valley Verandas 11 Grenier St, Spring Hill t: +61 (0) 7 3252 1820 e: info@valleyverandas.com.au www.valleyverandas.com.au From AU$19 pp/pn. Free breakfast, parking and pick-up. TV/DVD in double rooms, luggage storage and common room.
Cricket at The Gabba Hays Personnel Level 17, 23 Eagle St t: +61 (0) 7 3243 3022 w: www.hays.com.au Vacancies across all professional sectors. Skilled 129 Logan Rod, Woollongabba t: +61 (0) 7 3456 0777 w: www.skilled.com.au Maitenance and trades, production and distribution and technical professional. For more employment information and resources, as well as a number of Australian backpacker specific job sites, check the Web Directory on page 107.
Surf’s up in Surfers Paradise 51
Brisbane
Out & About Pubs & Bars Caxton Hotel 38 Caxton St Popular with locals and travellers alike, the bar of this cool hotel is especially busy with its dance nights on Fridays and Saturdays. Down Under Bar & Grill 308 Edward St (cnr Ann St), CBD Loud and raucous backpackers bar handily located beneath the Palace Backpackers hostel. Generally very busy though, so don’t expect to get a table easily. Cloudland 641 Ann Street, Fortitude Valley Quirky bar and restaurant which isn't all about appearances. Top notch selection of food to be tried with a great value grazing menu on offer.
Brisbane city sky-rises Irish Murphy’s cnr George & Elizabeth Sts, CBD Slightly more relaxed than you might expect from an Irish pub in Australia, Irish Murphy’s offers you a calmer drinking alternative. Jorge 183 George St, CBD Modern bar that offers a good selection of wine and cocktails, all to the beats and rhythms of some quality DJs. Story Bridge Hotel 200 Main St, Kangaroo Point Go under the bridge at Kangaroo Point to find this quaint old pub, ideal for sipping on a pint after a hard day traipsing around Brisbane. Clubs
Brisbane Arcade Elephant & Wheelbarrow 230 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley A busy travellers’ pub conveniently situated under the Prince Consort Backpackers hostel for all the boozy fun you can handle. GPO 740 Ann St, Fortitude Valley Located in the gutted carcass of an old post office this trendy bar offers a chilled out vibe as well as occasional live acts across two floors. 52
The Family 8 McLachlan St, Fortitude Valley Only for the hardcore Aussie ravers (keep it in the family). Set over five levels, The Family has a techno room, a trance room and a chillout bar. Birdees 608 Ann St, Fortitude Valley Open til 5am Friday and Saturday, this poolside venue has been a permanent fixture for backpackers and locals alike for over 10 years. Shadow Lounge @ Jade Buddha 1 Eagle St, Eagle St Pier Shadow Lounge has made its mark on the
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*Terms and conditions: valid at our sydney, melbourne and byron bay locations , must present visa bureau card upon booking, one
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Brisbane
Brisbane night scene, creating a seductive mix of innovative cocktails, lounge and house grooves all in an intimate and stylish setting.
The Green Papaya 898 Stanley St, East Brisbane Classic and contemporary Vietnamese cuisine at affordable prices from this restaurant based in East Brisbane.
Shootin’ pool at The Zoo The Zoo 711 Ann St, Fortitude Valley Long-standing nightclub/live music venue that runs the full musical spectrum, with nights ranging from hip-hop, jazz, rock and pop to acoustic, folk, dub and reggae. Restaurants & Cafés Artisans on the Yard QUT Campus, 2 George St Chilled student venue with a varied selection of food on offer and lots of courtyard seating. E’cco 100 Boundary St, CBD Be prepared to book in advance if you want to enjoy E’cco’s posh nosh. Fancy dishes like duck, quail and some wicked desserts make it worth the price and effort. Fatboys Café 323 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley Modern café frequented by Brisbane’s sexy young things, with a nice variety of coffee and the best hangover brekky in Brisbane. Govinda’s 99 Elizabeth St, CBD Bald head, tamborine and orange toga not required at this tasty Hare Krishna-run vegetarian restaurant. Gilhooley’s 124 Albert St, CBD Don’t expect anything overly complicated at 54
Gilhooley’s, with a menu populated by wellpriced, solid, substantial fare like steaks and beef and Guinness pie.
Leave it man; it’s Chinatown Himalayan Café 640 Brunswick St, New Farm Colourful restaurant with astonishing surroundings which serves traditional Nepalese and Tibetan cuisine in Chinatown. Pane e Vino 124 Albert St (cnr Charlotte St), CBD Modern Italian cuisine with street-side seating. Great for both lunch and dinner, but it can often get packed. Pig ‘n’ Whistle 123 Eagle St, Riverside Centre British themed restaurant that serves good food and tasty beer all day. Three Monkeys Coffee House 58 Mollison St, West End Chilled-out Moroccan-styled café with some of the best coffee and cakes in town, as well as a wide range of food on offer. Watt Modern Dining 119 Lamington St, New Farm Cool restaurant on the waterfront that’s part of the Brisbane Powerhouse theatre and arts centre; the menu comprises mostly modern Aussie cuisine.
Castlemaine XXXX Beer Brewery cnr Black & Paten St, Milton t: +61 (0) 7 3361 7597 w: www.xxxx.com.au Renovated in February 2012, get a taste of Australiana by visiting one of Australia's biggest icons. A must for all beer lovers, take a tour of the XXXX Brewery with one of the funny and informative guides, and take a look at how Queensland's favourite brew is made.
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Skydive the Beach Byron Bay Kingsford-Smith Park, Bentinck St, Ballina, NSW t: 1300 302 005 e: bookings@skydivethebeachbyronbay.com w: www.skydivethebeachbyronbay.com While technically still in New South Wales, Skydive the Beach Byron Bay offer free bus transfers from Brisbane, not to mention the ultimate adrenaline rush of jumping from up to 14,000ft in a tandem skydive. Plus, Platinum Card holders can get $30 off a tandem jump as well as a free t-shirt. Geronimo. Moreton Bay Escapes 20 Unwin Street, Moorooka t: 1300 559 355 e: reservations@moretonbayescapes.com.au w: www.moretonbayescapes.com.au The beautiful Moreton Bay Marine Park and Moreton Island National Park are must sees, and Moreton Bay Escapes lets you try sailing, 4WD sightseeing, snorkelling, sand-boarding and more in these surroundings. Planet Inline Skate Tours Sidon St, South Brisbane t: +61 (0) 4 1309 9333
w: www.planetinline.com Every Sunday, Planet Inline Skate Tours give you the chance to see Brisbane in a unique way, by offering inline skate tours around the city. Lessons are also available for beginners.
Brisbane
Must-Do Activities
Queensland Cultural Centre Grey St (cnr Melbourne St), South Bank t: +61 (0) 7 3840 7444 w: www.qpac.com.au A cluster of buildings set in the heart of Brisbane's South Bank, the Queensland Cultural Centre is the home of theatre, ballet, opera and other cultural activities. Whales in Paradise Vibe Hotel Pontoon via Appel Park Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise t: +61 (0) 7 5538 2111 e: info@whalesinparadise.com.au w: www.whalesinparadise.com.au Don't just whale watch, BE THERE! See the magnificent Humpback Whale breach, hear their tails slap the water and feel the waves rock the boat for an unforgettable experience.
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Dropbear Adventures
Dropbear Adventures Dropbear Adventures Williams Ave, Fraser Island. QLD 4581 t: 1800 061 156 e: info@dropbearadventures.com.au w: www.dropbearadventures.com.au Make your Fraser Island holiday unforgettable and connect with nature whilst embarking on a 4WD tour and camping adventure. What’s more, as a Platinum Card holder you get a 15% discount and a free Aussie stubby cooler.
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Great Barrier Reef Divers still trying to find Nemo
GREAT BARRIER REEF: Dive In! Experience an underwater Eden with the breathtaking beauty of the world’s largest living organism, the Great Barrier Reef. Dive under its warm Coral Sea waters and you’ll find a rainbow-stripe of fish gliding through the crystal waters like a brightly coloured buffet bar for passing turtles, whales, dolphins and manatees. Above the shoreline, 900 paradise-like islands dot the gorgeous, clear blue Pacific waters, opening up a playground for budding adventurers to sail, jet-ski, fish, snorkel and discover. The best way to explore this heady-mix of beauty is right on the Reef at Hardy Reef’s Reefworld – a man-made floating platform that allows you to snorkel and dive the coral gardens below. With a chill-out area, a lively bar, underwater viewing chambers and semisubmersibles, this is a fun and relaxed way to explore the underwater world. Whether you view the 74 islands of the Whitsundays by sky or by yacht, their pure beauty is eye-wateringly striking. With the highest mountain in the atoll and a collection of Aboriginal cave paintings, Hook Island 56
(pirates not included) is particularly spectacular; its four-mile Whitehaven Beach is constantly voted one of the best beaches in the world. This is ideal for adventurers looking to drop anchor and camp. Happy Campers will love Lady Musgrave Island. This tiny coral cay island is surrounded by a huge expanse of colourful reef, and also boasts a brilliantly blue lagoon. From November to March, green turtles rest in the coral-white sand to lay eggs. August to October sees migrating Humpback Whales swash by. Camping is Spartan, with just a
The Reef scuba bunker and toilet facilities; everything else is B.Y.O! You can’t come to this teeming ocean without a ‘dabble of your tackle’. The Cairns/Lizard Island Fishing Area of Australia's Great Barrier Reef offer tag and release big game
Partner Hostels (Yes, TWO!) Base Magnetic Island 1 Nelly Bay Rd, Nelly Bay, Magnetic Island t: +61 (0) 7 4778 5777 e: magnetic@stayatbase.com w: www.stayatbase.com/hostels/australiahostels/base-magnetic-island From AU$25 pp/pn in a dorm. Host to the famous Full Moon parties, with an onsite certified dive school, Base Magnetic Island is a great gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. FREE night’s stay upon booking four nights exclusive to Platinum Card holders. FREE drink on arrival. Mini-moke (topless car) hire; ideal for touring the island! Base Airlie Beach Resort 336 Shute Harbour Rd, Airlie Beach Oz freephone: 1800 24 2273 e: airliebeach@stayatbase.com w: www.stayatbase.com/hostels/australiahostels/base-airlie-beach-resort From AU$22 pp/pn in a dorm. The perfect place to stay with 74 Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef at your doorstep. FREE night’s stay upon booking four nights exclusive to Platinum Card holders. Fridge, air con and fresh linen, and single, twin and triple rooms with heaps of free extras. The Sanctuary Girls’ only dorms have FREE shampoo, conditioner, soap and fluffy towel plus FREE Champagne in the bar!
Mission Beach Tourism Centre Porter Promenade, Mission Beach Queensland t: +61 (0) 7 4068 7099 e: info@missionbeachtourism.com w: www.missionbeachtourism.com As its closest mainland point, Mission Beach is the ideal gateway to the Great Barrier Reef.
Great Barrier Reef
fishing on a heavy scale – Black Marlin, Pacific Sailfish, Barracuda, Dogtooth Tuna, Dolphin Fish; this is Australia’s deep-sea fishing hotspot, and makes for an action-packed fishing experience. Lighter on the wrist, cast a line for a tasty Coral Trout or Red Snapper.
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Cairns
Accommodation . . . . 59-60 Employment . . . . . . . . . . 61 Out & About . . . . . . . 61-62 Must-Do Activities . . . . 63
The crystal-clear waters of Cairns
CAIRNS: Gem on the Coast As the metropolitan hub for exploring the tropical paradise of Australia’s north-eastern coast, Cairns is a big destination on the backpacker route. The ideal base for exploring the Great Barrier Reef and stunning Whitsunday Islands, as well as the nearby chic Port Douglas, Cairns has idyllic white-sand beaches which fringe the amazing Coral Sea waters as well as lush rainforest, river rapids and the rugged beauty of the Outback all on its doorstep. Just outside of Cairns you’ll find a tropical wilderness of exceptional beauty: Cape Tribulation. A World Heritage Site bristling with wildlife and lush jungle, you can trek up to Mossman Gorge and zip-wire across the rainforest canopy - watch out for parrots and ospreys as you whizz down. If you fancy wrestling a few crocs, then a cruise through the pretty mangroves of Daintree River is a must. If The Life Aquatic is more your style, Cairns is handily situated next to the awesome Great 58
Barrier Reef. Stretching for over 2,500km, the warm and pristine Coral Sea waters teem with an incredible spectrum of fish. If you dream of uninhabited islands fringed by chalk-white sands that stretch into clear coralwaters, then the Whitsunday Islands define paradise. Jump on a catamaran and spend a week plunging into bath-warm water and watching dolphins spin as you sail the 74 islands with Whitsundays Sailing Adventures (which you’ll handily get a great discount on with your Platinum Card).
Scuba diving Cairns is renowned for its gorgeous Green Island, Fitzroy Island and Frankland Islands National Park – perfect for fellow travellers to party over a barbie and chill-out with an inquisitive snorkel. Green Island has a beautiful beach where you can spot reef sharks, turtles and tiny fish from the shore. Fitzroy Island has gorgeous shell-peppered beaches and is perfect for snorkelling, diving or just plain beach lazing. Of course, the explorer in you will find there’s more to Cairns than just beach chilling. On the Undara Experience, you can climb into an incredible structure which constitutes the longest lava-flow from a single volcanic crater on Earth.
Cairns
As darkness falls, thousands of microbats fly up from the cavernous tubes in search of insects while brown tree snakes, lovingly known as ‘night tigers’ slither out. After this unforgettable spectacle, you can relax under a blanket of Southern Hemisphere stars. Another uniquely Cairns experience is the Wet Tropics Rainforest, which dates back to the MIIIIIGHTY DIIIINOSAUUUURS (don’t be ashamed to admit you roared that in your head). Sadly, you won’t see a diplodocus, but it is a great showcase of plant and animal life. Feeling restless after all this chilling out? Grab a paddle and a hell-of-a-lot of nerve and whitewater raft the Tully River, which many consider the best for rafting in Australia! Cairns & Tropical North Visitor Information Centre 51 The Esplanade cnr The Esplanade & Shields St, Cairns Oz freephone: 1800 093 300 w: www.cairnsgreatbarrierreef.org.au Opening Hours: Open 7 days a week
Partner Hostel - Free Night! Njoy Travellers Resort 141 Sheridan St, Cairns Oz freephone: 1800 807 055 t: +61 (0) 7 4031 1088 e: info@njoy.net.au w: www.njoy.net.au From AU$19 pp/pn in a dorm. Centrally located, Njoy is just a few minutes from the city centre, Cairns lagoon, shopping and nightlife, with a large communal area and resort-style pool on-site.
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FREE night’s stay upon booking four nights, exclusive to Platinum Card holders (offer only valid for 4 bed dormitory bookings). FREE tour advice and bookings. FREE towels, linen and luggage storage. FREE airport and coach pick-ups. Air-con, on-site laundry and kitchen. 59
Cairns
Accommodation Bohemia Resort 231 McLeod St Oz freephone: 1300 264 3642 e: info@bohemiaresort.com.au w: www.bohemiaresort.com.au From AU$22 pp/pn in a 6 person dorm. Free shuttle bus to town, bar, Internet. Calypso Inn 5-9 Digger St Oz freephone: 1800 815 628 t: +61 (0) 7 4031 0910 w: www.calypsobackpackers.com From AU$20 pp/pn. One of Cairns’ party hubs, complete with an on-site swimming pool and an all-you-can-eat restaurant where you can refuel for just a few dollars. Caravella’s Backpackers Resort 149 The Esplanade t: +61 (0) 7 4051 2431 e: info@caravella.com.au w: www.caravella.com.au From AU$18 pp/pn in 4/6 dorm. Pool, a/c, Internet and free airport pick up.
Global Central 9 Shields St cnr Lake & Shields St Oz freephone: 1800 819 024 t: +61 (0) 7 4031 7921 w: www.globalbackpackerscairns.com.au From AU$15 pp/pn. Well run hostel with stylish interiors, a small rooftop pool and a timber veranda overlooking City Place. Nomads Cairns Backpackers Hostel 341 Lake St Oz freephone: 1800 666 237 t: +61 (0) 7 4040 7777 e: info@nomadscairns.com w: www.nomadshostels.com/australia From AU$17 pp/pn in 10 bed dorm. Bar, a/c, pool and restaurant. Free shuttle bus Ryan’s Rest 18 Terminus St t: +61 (0) 7 4051 4734 e: info@ryansrest.com.au w: www.ryansrest.com.au From AU$33 pp/pn. Small boutique guest house with double-room accommodation. Travellers Oasis 8 Scott St Oz freephone: 1800 621 353 t: +61 (0) 7 4052 1377 e: info@travellersoasis.com.au w: www.travellersoasis.com.au From AU$26 pp/pn. Homely hostel where all rooms come with linen, towels, fans and a/c.
Tropical sunset Dreamtime Travellers Rest 4 Terminus St t: +61 (0) 7 4031 6753 e: info@dreamtimehostel.com.au w: www.dreamtimehostel.com.au From AU$24 pp/pn. Bright and friendly hostel placed in a renovated ‘Queenslander’. Gecko’s Backpackers 187 Bunda St Oz freephone: 1800 011 344 t: + 61 (0) 7 4031 1344 e: bookings@geckosbackpackers.com.au w: www.geckosbackpackers.com.au Chilled-out hostel, with comfortable rooms, and a large kitchen. 60
Tropic Days Backpackers 26-28 Bunting St t: +61 (0) 7 4041 1521 e: info@tropicdays.com.au w: www.tropicdays.com.au From AU$26 pp/pn. Clean, comfortable and awarded guesthouse. Free Internet and tea and coffee. Very relaxing.
Fireside chit chats
The Cairns Nursing Agency 42 Grafton St t: +61 (0) 7 4031 0377 e: staff@cairnsnursingagency.com.au w: www.cairnsnursingagency.com.au Specialise in remote and outback placements. Experience necessary.
Out & About Pubs & Bars Cairns Yacht Club Marina Point Ridiculously cheap drinks are on offer for travellers that visit this nautical boozer.
Cairns
Employment Banana Barracks 50 Butler St, Tully t: +61 (0) 7 4068 0455 e: info@bananabarracks.com w: www.bananabarracks.com A working backpacker hostel. Work starts at 6am through to 4pm, usually 38-40 hours a week. Pay is based on the current Queensland Fruit and Vegetable Award.
Cock & Bull 6 Grove St Cosy nooks and low-beamed ceilings mixed with Aussie flavours - a great combination. Courthouse Hotel 38 Abbott St Former government building with a funky, younger crowd, making it an enjoyable (if somewhat surreal) experience. The Green Ant Cantina 183 Bunda St Funky venue which boasts a nice mix of knowledgeable locals and tourists as well as great Mexican food and wide range of beers.
White sands of Cairns Staffing Solutions NQ 124 Spence St t: +61 (0) 7 4031 5000 e: apply@staffingsolutionsnq.com.au w: www.ssnq.com.au If you're looking for temporary or casual work, Staffing Solutions NQ can help. Register online for help through the entire process, including resume tips and online applications. Signature Staff 330 Sheridan St t: +61 (0) 7 4050 3888 w: www.signaturestaff.com.au Wide range of employment opportunities as well as CV advice. Casual work available. Open 24 hours. For more employment information and resources, as well as a number of Australian backpacker specific job sites, check the Web Directory on page 107.
Rattle ‘n’ Hum 67 The Esplanade Huge bar with a laddish atmosphere that churns out both grill food and pizzas, with massive quantities of beer consumed in this rowdy environment. The Jack 60 Spence St Irish-style pub with an enormous beer garden, dance floor and gaming lounge. Best to steer clear of it on Mondays though, unless you want to face the terror of karaoke night. Q Sports Bar 86 Sheridan St Large bar that often features DJs and live music, with plenty of drinking and dancing to go along with it.
Didgeridoo fun times 61
Cairns
Clubs Sugar Hut Level 1 39 Lake St A relatively new addition to the Cairns nightclub scene, Sugar Hut is quickly forging its reputation as a place to be come Friday.
Gelocchio 9/93 The Esplanade A reputation for the best ice cream in Cairns isn't idle bragging at Gelocchio. All made with natural ingredients, the vast selection of flavours on offers make this gelato spot one of the most popular in town.
Toybox 53 Spence St Cairn's naughtiest nightclub is not for the faint hearted. Dress to impress and come out to play. The Ruby Room 35/41 Wharf St Another new addition to the city's nightlife, the Ruby Room, located in the Reef Hotel Casino, is open late, offering jet-lagged backpackers a place to adjust. The Woolshed 24 Shields St Voted the best backpacker night out in Cairns four years in a row. Different events every night (including wet t-shirt contests). Restaurants & Cafés Café Pacifico cnr Spence St & The Esplanade Free wireless Internet access, quality coffee, delicious pastry treats and quick, friendly service.
Chilled-out haven Mondo 34 The Esplanade Great location, attached to the Cairns Hilton, Mondo has amazing waterfront views. Service can be a bit dodgy, but the modern Australian cuisine makes it worthwhile. Sushi Paradise 111-115 Grafton St Cairns isn't one of the closest cities to Tokyo for nothing. This great value, freshly prepared sushi joint is a firm favourite among locals and backpackers alike. Ochre Restaurant 43 Shields St Ever wanted to eat an emu? Roast a ‘roo? Chow down on a crocodile? Now’s your chance! The Red Ochre Grill gives you the chance to savour a great variety of Australian creatures in stylish surroundings.
Forest exploring Charlie’s Acacia Court Hotel, 223-227 The Esplanade One of Cairns' favourite restaurants, Charlie’s has a seafood and hot food buffet that offers tremendous value for money. Look for the daily discount vouchers in the Cairns Post. 62
Pacific Flavours Brasserie The Reef Hotel Casino, 35-41 Wharf St Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with a nightly tropical seafood buffet dinner. Perrotta’s at the Gallery 38 Abbott St Stylish Italian-inspired café restaurant with tasty local produce and some exciting gourmet options. The coffee and desserts are pretty much to die for too.
Cairns Tropical Zoo Captain Cook Highway, Palm Cove t: +61 (0) 7 4055 3669 e: info@cairnstropicalzoo.com w: www.cairnstropicalzoo.com.au Cairns Tropical Zoo is the largest and most diverse wildlife attraction in tropical North Queensland. Locally-owned and operated, the Cairns Tropical Zoo is home to hundreds of native and exotic species.
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Cairns
Must-Do Activities Skyrail Rainforest Cableway cnr of Captain Cook Highway & Cairns Western Arterial Rd, Smithfield t: +61 (0) 7 4038 5555 e: mail@skyrail.com.au w: www.skyrail.com.au Skyrail Rainforest Cableway is a world-first in environmental tourism (whatever that is). Go on an amazing experience over Australia’s World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest canopy and deep into the forest with a bird’seye view of natural wonders.
Whitsundays Sailing Adventures Level 2/293 Shute Harbour Rd, Airlie Beach Australia 4802 t: +61 (0) 7 4940 2000 e: bookings@whitsailing.com w: www.whitsundayssailingadventures.com. Crewed, live-aboard sailing holidays that let you explore the Whitsunday Islands and Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. You can book up to 12 months in advance and if you inform them you’re a Platinum Card holder (provided you do so in person or via email and not their online booking), you’ll get 15% off! Foaming Fury 19-21 Barry St, Bungalow t: +61 (0) 7 4031 3460 e: bookings@foamingfury.com.au w: www.foamingfury.com.au Foaming Fury operates whitewater rafting tours near Cairns on some of Australia’s wildest rivers. It’s an adventure activity not to be missed.
Bungy in the jungle AJ Hackett Bungy Cairns McGregor Rd, Smithfield t: +61 (0) 7 4057 7188 e: cairns.reception@ajhackett.com w: www.ajhackett.com/cairns AJ Hackett Cairns is a very special place, featuring the world’s first purpose-built tower for bungy jumping and the only bungy operation on the planet that offers 16 different jump styles, from traditional swan dives to riding off the roof on a BMX bike!
Reef Magic Cruises 1 Spence St, Reef Fleet Terminal t: +61 (0) 7 4031 1588 e: res@reefmagiccruises.com w: www.reefmagiccruises.com The friendly chaps at Reef Magic Cruises give you the chance to dive, snorkel and explore the beautiful Great Barrier Reef, with all training and equipment provided. The Reef Magic Cruises experience is fully catered for including a licensed bar on the vessel and a range of snacks available throughout the trip. 63
Darwin
Accommodation . . . . 65-66 Employment . . . . . . . . . . 67 Out & About . . . . . . . 67-68 Must-Do Activities . . . . 69
Your neighbours in Darwin
DARWIN: Wild Croc Central Perched on a palm-fringed peninsula, the tropical and modern Northern Territory capital of Darwin is a major backpacker haunt. The world’s ‘beer drinking capital’ is an awesome base from which to explore the World Heritage listed sites of the rugged Top End and really get to grips with wild nature. What’s more, the city’s golden beaches, hip nightlife and real sense of identity make it easy to love. Diverse and with plenty to offer, the city centre is more than just a starting point to discover the wild surrounds. Get to grips with Darwin’s chequered history on a Walking Tour as you visit ammunition bunkers, airstrips and oil-tunnels round the city, and Parliament Square’s Asian-inspired architecture. Chill-out on Mindil Beach, and mooch its bohemian evening market. Closer to Jakarta and Singapore than to Sydney, Asian influence is visible in Darwin’s colourful range of restaurants, eclectic bars and clothes markets. The city really goes allout to stake its claim as a multi-cultural city. 64
Parap Market is as varied as they come and gives you a great taste of the 50 cultures of Darwin. There’s authentic Asian influences everywhere, with the flavours and surroundings more reminiscent of India, Japan or Malysia than Australia. For a look at authentic Aboriginal culture, sail 80km north of Darwin on a daytrip to Melville and Bathurst Islands, known as the Tiwi Islands. Famed for their colourful art, the Tiwi Aborigines have lived on the Islands for thousands of years and their isolation has kept their unique traditions alive. Aussie Rules footie is a big passion for the Tiwis:
Darwin from the water April sports the Tiwi Grand Final. To witness the highest concentration of Aboriginal rockart in the world, and some awesome trekking country, Kakadu National Park is a magnificent must. The wholly Aboriginalowned Arnhem Land is also known for its strong indigenous culture and prolific wilderness adventures. Crocs are bigger and badder than you’d imagine. When you see their bulldozer jaws snapping on an unsuspecting heron, you’ll never put those crocodile shoes on again. See these beautiful beasts at Darwin Crocodile Farm. The monster crocs feeding time is a bloody and frightening frenzy – don’t miss it!
Darwin
Better still, take a Croc Jumping Cruise on the Adelaide River, and watch huge crocs jump-up to snap fleshy-meat bait: a terrifying, yet awesome experience. For a more serene day out, why not try splashing about at the ‘croc free’ Howard Springs Nature Park? Just 24km from Darwin, it’s a beautiful spring surrounded by a lush forest. It’s also a perfect picnic and camping spot. Litchfield National Park is an ideal alternative, although do watch out for crocs. A stunning table top range of sandstone cliffs, rainforest and waterholes, you can spend days trekking this bountiful wilderness. Stroll the columns of The Lost City, and cool off in the huge Wangi Falls swimming holes. Tourism Top End Information Centre 6 Bennett St, (cnr Smith St) Darwin e: info@tourismtopend.com.au w: www.tourismtopend.com.au Opening Hours: (April - November) Mon - Fri: 8.30am - 5pm Sat - Sun: 9am - 5pm (December - March) Open until 6pm
Partner Hostel - Free Night! Chilli’s Backpackers 69a Mitchell St, Darwin Oz freephone: 1800 351 313 t: +61 (0) 8 8941 9722 e: info@chillis.com.au w: www.chillis.com.au From AU$28 pp/pn in a dorm. A backpacker haven surrounded by cheap eats, great bars, travel shops and aboriginal artifact centres. Chilli's fully licensed travel desk staff will assist you with all your travel requirements, including tour bookings. FREE night’s stay upon booking three nights, exclusive to Platinum Card holders. FREE $10 phone card and 1 hour Internet. Breakfast included. Airport shuttle. On-site travel desk. Lockers for storage.
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Accommodation Banyan View Lodge 119 Mitchell St, Darwin t: +61 (0) 8 8981 8644 w: www.banyanviewlodge.com.au From AU$23 pp/pn in 4 bed dorm. Chill-out in the swimming pool at this hostel, which also features tour bookings, free Internet, parking and luggage storage. Darwin YHA 97 Mitchell St, Darwin t: +61 (0) 8 8981 5385 e: darwin@yha.com.au w: www.yha.com.au From AU$34 pp/pn. Darwin YHA is located in the heart of a backpacker's nightlife haven. The hostel itself comes complete with bar, BBQ, bicycles, restaurant, games room and a swimming pool.
Mindil Beach Market Elkes Backpackers 112 Mitchell St, Darwin Oz freephone: 1800 808 365 t: +61 (0) 8 8981 8399 e: info@elkesbackpackers.com.au w: www.elkesbackpackers.com.au From AU$24 pp/pn. Linen provided, free breakfast included, tour info and Internet.
Gecko Lodge 146 Mitchell St, Darwin Oz freephone: 1800 811 250 t: +61 (0) 8 8981 5569 e: geckolodge@ozemail.com.au w: www.geckolodge.com.au From AU$25 pp/pn in an 8 bed dorm. Breakfast included, linen, swimming pool, Internet, airport pickup, bike hire, tours. Melaleuca On Mitchell 52 Mitchell St, Darwin t: +61 (0) 8 8941 7800 e: info@momdarwin.com w: www.momdarwin.com From AU$33 pp/pn. Rooms are spacious and clean with air-conditioning and fans, and the best leisure deck in town with a 4 metre big screen, pool and poolside bar. YMCA of the Top End 7 Doctors Gully Rd, Darwin t: +61 (0) 0 8981 6504 e: topendoffice@ymca.org.au w: www.topend.ymca.org.au From AU$42 pp/pn. Central location, close to all the major attractions. Deals available for weekly stay, and bed linen is supplied. TV hire available, fan-cooled rooms, swimming pool and games room on-site. The Youth Shack 69 Mitchell Street t: +61 (0) 8 8923 9790 e: info@youthshack.com.au w: www.youthshack.com.au From AU$26 pp/pn. Youth by name, youth by nature. The Youth Shack is brand new and has lots of shiny, sparkly features.
Frogs Hollow 27 Lindsay St, Darwin Oz freephone: 1800 068 686 t: +61 (0) 8 8941 2600 e: book@frogs-hollow.com.au w: www.frogs-hollow.com.au From AU$26 pp/pn in shared dorm. Breakfast included, luggage storage, laundry facilities. On-site swimming pool and BBQ. Darwin dusk 66
AA Recruit 1/48 Woods Street, Darwin t: +61 (0) 8 8981 7431 Employment agency that deals in both temporary and permanent placements.
Out & About Pubs & Bars Blue Heeler Bar Herbert St (cnr Mitchell St), Darwin Very popular with backpackers for eating and drinking. Plus, if you’re short on cash, the first drink you buy any night of the week comes with a free meal!
Darwin
Employment Adecco Unit 4, 138 Coonawarra Rd t: +61 (0) 8 8944 1500 e: darwin@adecco.com.au w: www.adecco.com.au Agency dealing in most industries, both temporary and permanent positions available.
The Cavenagh 12 Cavenagh St, Darwin The Cavenagh, with a 70's retro look and feel, is one of Darwin’s newest bars. Relaxed outdoor setting or comfy inside lounge chairs keep it chilled. Kitty O'Shea's Irish Bar & Café Mitchell St (cnr Herbert St), Darwin Lively, happening place in Darwin, offering Irish fare, lots of music, noise and energy. Nightclub open until very late.
Falcon fun Chandler MacLeod 84 Smith St t: +61 (0) 8 8943 1155 w: www.chandlermacleod.com Specialist in temporary and permanent office placements.
Squires Tavern 3 Edmunds St, Darwin Smack in the centre of Darwin, Squires is a cool little tavern with happy hours and pool tables. Ideal for both a relaxing lunchtime pint and a regrettable night of drinking. Top End Hotel 112 Mitchell St (cnr Daly St), Darwin With Darwin's biggest beer garden, sports bar and gentlemen's club, any laddish tendencies you might have (girls too) will be satisfied.
Hays 6/21 Knuckey St t: +61 (08) 8943 6000 e: darwin@hays.com.au w: www.hays.com.au Agency offering positions in construction, mining and administration. Frontline Retail 247 Trower Road, Suite 10 Monterey House, Casuarina t: +61 (0) 8 8927 7111 w: www.frontlinerecruitmentgroup.com Recruitment agency that specialises in retail opportunities in the NT.
Cullen Bay restaurant
For more employment information and resources, as well as a number of Australian backpacker specific job sites, check the Web Directory on page 107.
Shenannigans 69 Mitchell St, Transit Centre, Darwin A classic Australian-Irish bar (you will find out) offering a range of great food and drinks. 67
Darwin
Clubs Discovery 89 Mitchell St, Darwin Hey now, get funky! Situated on Darwin's entertainment strip, Discovery is Darwin's premier nightclub, complete with live bands, DJs and regular special events. The Vic 27 Smith St Mall, Darwin Great spot for a night out dancing, drinking and, of course, getting up there on the tables and stages and shakin’ that booty.
Hanuman 93 Mitchell St, Darwin Spice-tastic cuisine on offer at this classy Indian/Thai restaurant, as well as an imaginative menu and ace selection of wine. Magic Wok Shop 20 West Lane Arcade, Darwin Cheap and cheerful Chinese restaurant, with the ‘turbo-wok’ preparing your food before your eyes. A mix of Asian and Aussie influences make for some tasty treats. Pee Wee’s at the Point Alec Fong Lim Drive, Darwin Upmarket restaurant, despite the funny name, with an exotic menu and gorgeous al fresco dining on (no giggling) Fannie Bay. Vietnam Saigon Star 4/60 Smith St, Darwin Tasty Vietnamese cuisine, and deliciously cheap. You can bring your own booze too. Wisdom Bar and Café 48 Mitchell St, Darwin Bright, vibrant restaurant that offers over 50 beers from around the world, and has a good variety of bar food to sustain you.
Waterfront restaurant Throb 1/64 Smith St, Darwin One of Darwin’s top gay nightspots, with a diverse atmosphere, making it fun and friendly regardless of your sexuality.
Thailicious 26/69 Mitchell St, Darwin Great little Thai place overlooking the street. The food can be a little pricey, but the great atmosphere and cool roof terrace make it worth the stretch.
Restaurants & Cafés Buzz Café Cullen Bay Marina, Darwin One of Darwin’s most popular restaurants thanks to the breathtaking marina views. Char Restaurant Knuckey St, Darwin If you like your meat and al-fresco dining then Char’s high-quality steaks and astonishing surroundings will serve you well. Ducks Nuts Bar and Grill 76 Mitchell St, Darwin Classier than the name suggests, with delicious coffee and good meals in generous portions. The weary traveller might be more inclined to head straight for the vodka bar. 68
Fish BBQ on Mindil Beach Emerald Springs Roadhouse Portion 721 Stuart Highway, Darwin How can a vegetarian brunch place be ranked the best restaurant in Darwin? With great food, great staff and great prices, that's how.
Australian Harbour Cruises Cullen Bay Marina, Darwin t: +61 (0) 8 2841 4000 e: info@anniki.com.au w: www.australianharbourcruises.com.au Harbour cruise operator with three hour sunset cruises and lunch time BBQ cruises of the Darwin Harbour in a luxury sailing boat or an historic pearling lugger. The perfect way to sip Champagne and nibble on hors d’oevres and watch the sun go down. Aquascene 28 Doctors Gully Rd, Darwin t: +61 (0) 8 8981 7837 e: info@aquascene.com.au w: www.aquascene.com.au It’s a fish feeding frenzy, right in the heart of Darwin and within walking distance of most city hotels. Aquascene is a unique Darwin experience where hundreds of fish come to shore at high tide to be fed by hand.
One stop croc shop Darwin Crocodile Farm Farm 40KM, Stuart Highway, Darwin t: +61 (0) 8 8981 7837 w: www.crocfarm.com.au “That’s not a knife... THIS is a knife!” Get your Crocodile Dundee impressions at the ready for Australia’s largest crocodile farm, featuring ‘Snowy’, the world’s largest albino crocodile in captivity. Darwin Botanic Gardens Gardens Rd, The Gardens, Darwin t: +61 (0) 8 8999 4418 e: botgardens.darwin@nt.gov.au
w: www.parksandwildlife.nt.gov.au/botanic Chill-out after a tough day in the tropical heat in the stunning surrounds of the gorgeous Botanic Gardens.
Darwin
Must-Do Activities
Waterfalls at Kakadu Kakadu National Park Kakadu National Park, Jabiru t: +61 (0) 8 8938 1120 e: kakadunationalpark@environment.gov.au w: www.environment.gov.au/parks/kakadu/ A must-see for any traveller in Australia wanting to see the country’s real, unkempt wilderness. Explore each of the unique regions of Kakadu National Park and experience the true beauty of the park’s ancient landscapes. Deckchair Cinema Jervois Road, off Kitchener Drive Darwin t: +61 (0) 8 8981 0700 w: www.deckchaircinema.com.au Relaxed open-air cinema offering movies every night from April to November. Over 250 deckchairs mean you’ll be all set to lounge in comfort while watching a favourite alternative film (provided it doesn’t rain). Sailing Adventures NT Nelson t: +61 (0) 3 0879 5567 e: info@sailnt.com.au w: www.sailnt.com.au Sailing tours, scenic cruises, day trips, sea kayaking, yacht charters, national park walks, sightseeing tours and many more fun Abel Tasman activities.
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Red Centre Uluru in the sun
RED CENTRE: Epic Outback With its heritage of Aboriginal culture and diverse desert-heartland, nowhere epitomises Australia’s spiritual roots more than the Red Centre. From the natural phenomenon that is Uluru to the sublime beauty of the Olgas and sacred Aborigine sites, its vast and timeless landscape has an inexplicable, magnetic pull. Meanwhile, Alice Springs has plenty of companies offering awesome adventure and spiritual tours. From camel rides at dusk to witchetty-grub hunts and kangaroo cook-ups with remote Aborigine communities, Alice serves up an iconic taste of the raw beauty that defines the Red Centre. One of the things Alice Springs is most famous for is its Flying Doctors - it wasn’t just a boring Aussie soap! Providing essential medical treatment to many isolated communities and cattle stations, they fly the breadth of the Outback, and have a pretty cool museum filled with ancient-looking medical gear and an interactive cockpit. Handily opposite the docs, you’ll find some of the most venomous snakes in the world at 70
Alice Springs Reptile Centre. Plucked straight from the outback are pythons, taipans, brown snakes and death adders. Plus huge perentie goannas and frilled-neck lizards. A bit like a miniature version of Jurassic Park, but without Sam Neill’s big wonky face (or the dinosaurs). You’d have to be emotionally inept not to experience even a flicker of spiritualawakening when you first glimpse the mightymonolith of Uluru.
A cook-out at dusk Towering 348m high and stretching some 3.6km long on a flat desert, its random stonethrown situ is mind-blowing. Arrive at sunrise to see the rock lighten from a dark charcoal to a brilliant burnt orange.
Red Centre
If you fancy one of the best treks of your life, followed by a traditional Billy Tea and a night under a star-studded sky, hit Olgas (Kata Tjuta) National Park. Trek between its 36 rock formations, which dominate the endless skyline before descending into the Olga Gorge, and exploring the mountainous dunes. You’ll find most adventure companies based in Alice include camping and a traditional Billy Bush Tea round a roaring fire in the tour. It’s not often you get to wrap your legs round a beautiful, roaring machine like the Harley Davidson. With the wind in your hair, leathers tight and an endless orange-desert unfurling before you, Uluru Motorcycle Tours give you the ultimate Easy Rider experience; sadly it excludes the psychedelic LSD trip and brothel stop. You can’t have it all.
Walking the base with an Anangu Aborigine guide will give you a heart-felt insight into the geology and mythology of Uluru. Passing sacred sites, large caves and paintings scored into the ochre-red rock face, it’s like strolling a history museum; oh, and try not to scale the sacred climbing path. It’s the equivalent of arriving in Jerusalem and sticking grapplinghooks in the Western Wall. ‘Nuff said! A lesser known, but equally stunning marvel of Australia’s Red Centre is the incredible Kings Canyon. Some 350 million years old, its chasm of sandstone-walls plunge into the tropical oasis of Watarrka National Park. Don’t forget your togs, as the aptly named Garden of Eden rock pool is a welcome relief from the Canyon Rim Walk. It’s sooo worth the leg work.
Desert buddies For that final and unforgettable sunrise over Uluru National Park, book a sunrise hot-air balloon ride. Floating gently in the warm air, you’ll pass the rugged West MacDonnell Ranges, remote cattle-stations and see kangaroos, wallabies and birds awaken in their natural habitat. Landing is tricky, but when you’ve got moist chocolate cake and a bottle of bubbly waiting, it’s worth the bump. Tourism Central Australia 60 Gregory Terrace, Alice Springs Oz freephone: 1800 645 199 t: +61 (0) 8 8952 5800 e: info@discoverca.com.au w: www.discovercentralaustralia.com Dedicated to providing help for tourists and other visitors including information on all the Red Centre and Outback sights and locations.
An Outback spelling contest 71
Perth
Accommodation . . . . 73-75 Employment . . . . . . . . . . 75 Out & About . . . . . . . 76-77 Must-Do Activities . . . . 78
Cottesloe beach, Perth
PERTH: Best of the West The easy-going city of Perth is renowned for its endless sunshine, youthful vibe and striking isolation from the rest of Australia – it’s a hefty 2,750 mile drive to Sydney! The gleaming modern town is handily positioned between gorgeous Indian Ocean waters and the rugged landscape of the Darling Ranges. Imagine spending your day swimming with dolphins, diving shipwrecks, kitesurfing and sandboarding before turning your attention onto the tasty fresh lobster and local wines, and you’ve got an idea of what Perth’s about. Not only do the crystal-clear ocean waters deliver an aquatic world of prolific proportions, but it also delivers some of the best surfing in Australia. The Sunset Coast attracts big wave surfers year-round while Scarborough Beach’s powder-white sands attract a bronzed and scraggy-haired surf crowd. Volley ball and surf competitions are a regular feature. New surfers usually hit the gorgeous Cottelsoe Beach to paddle their board and 72
watch hardcore wave-riders carve the surf. The eye-candy is plentiful, but, if you fancy sunning your buns in between catching some waves, then grab your binoculars and head to nudist Swanbourne Free Beach. For snorkelling, kiteboarding and adventurous dives to the surrounding reef and wrecks, Rottnest Island is the perfect island escape. An underwater camera is a must, as dolphins regularly swim close to shore, and the marine life is amazing. Hire a bike and beach-hop the
Sandboarding island’s 63 gorgeous shell-strewn beaches, one of which is sure to be quiet enough to do some au naturel tanning - just don’t forget to sun-block those white bits. South of Perth has miles of untamed coastal wilderness to be explored. The Valley of the Giants Forest is famed for its huge Tree Top Walk. Amazingly engineered, the 600m walkway sways among the huge 40m karri tree-tops – think Swiss Family Robinson meets Rambo and you’ll be close.
Perth
years by colliding wind, rain and sand, this mystical landscape of contorted quartz and sandstone pillars rising from the dunes is one of the country’s most imposing sights. Of course, if you can’t bear to be parted from the sea for more than a few hours, the desert’s sand dunes are excellent for sandboarding your way to the water. Stop off in Yanchep National Park on the way home to check out the park’s huge variety of Aussie critters. Wine aficionados will die happy in Perth’s nearby Swan Valley; the oldest wine-growing region in Western Australia. You can tour the dozen wineries and pick up some two litres of home-grown for a cheap $15! Once you’ve toured the vineyards and drowned your tastebuds, hit the coast to catch some rays and ride some of the best surfing breaks in Oz.
The Darling Ranges is Perth’s cool forest retreat and an adventurer’s paradise. One of the most ancient places on earth, it was formed some 2,500 million years ago, and boasts woodlands that are unlike anything else Oz has to offer. In the heart of the hills is friendly Mundaring, home to the start of the 600km Munda Biddi Mountain Bike Trail. If cycling ‘til you drop doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, the ranges also features more activities, such as horse-riding, canoeing or wallowing in waterfall pools. Fans of Stonehenge will be fascinated, or terrified, by the natural phenomenon of the desert’s Pinnacles. Formed over thousands of Perth Bell Tower Perth Tourist Information Centre w: www.perthtouristcentre.com.au Plenty of information regarding tourist information, accommodation and Perth’s top attractions. Maps available as well as upcoming events. 'Perth-ection', right? RIGHT? 73
Perth
Accommodation Central Perth Billabong Backpackers Resort 381 Beaufort St, Northbridge t: +61 (0) 8 9328 7720 w: www.billabongresort.com.au From AU$30 pp/pn in 8 bed dorm. Airport shuttle, a/c, huge pool, TV, gym, linen, cafĂŠ, free breakfast and Internet. Lively location. Comfort Hostel 239 Great Eastern Highway, Belmont t: +61 (0) 8 9475 0600 e: info@comforthostel.com.au w: www.comfortbackhostel.com.au Private double rooms from AU$100 pr/pn. Friendly, clean and homely. Internet, free shuttle, TV, linen and BBQ. Coolibah Lodge 194 Brisbane St, Northbridge Oz freephone: 1800 280 000 t: +61 (0) 8 9328 9958 w: www.coolibahlodge.com.au From AU$28 pp/pn. 4 star spacious rooms, a/c, bar, kitchen, BBQ area, Internet cafĂŠ, tour desk, linen, bar with cheap drinks, movie room and free passes to local clubs and bars.
Beach sundown Exclusive Backpackers 156 Adelaide Terrace t:+61 (0) 8 9221 9991 e: exclusivebackpackers@hotmail.com w: www.exclusivebackpackers.com From AU$28 pp/pn dorm. Charming hostel, comfortable beds, spacious/clean bathrooms, a/c, Internet, laundrette, TV room, large terrace, library and jobs board.
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Spinners Backpackers 342 Newcastle Street, Northbridge t: +61 (0) 8 9328 9468 e: spinner@spinnersbackpackers.com.au w: www.spinnersbackpackers.com.au From AU$30 pp/pn in dorm. Small but friendly, Spinners is a great, family run hostel with 24hr check in, A/C and help with work. Hotel Bambu Backpackers 75-77 Aberdeen St, Northbridge t: +61 (0) 8 9328 1211 From AU$22 pp/pn. Spacious rooms, a/c, bar, BBQ, pool tables, DVD rental, free Wi-Fi, free rice and bread, breakfast inc.
Bright lights, big city Hay St Backpackers 266-268 Hay St t: +61 (0) 8 9221 9880 e: haystbackpackers@gmail.com w: www.haystbackpackers.com From AU$35 pp/pn. Characterful house with excellent facilities, travel desk, Internet, swimming pool, comfortable beds, BBQ area and free airport shuttle. Planet Inn Backpackers 496 Newcastle St, West Perth t: +61 (0) 8 9227 9969 e: info@planetinn.com.au w: www.planetinn.com.au From AU$16 pp/pn in 8 bed dorm. Party atmosphere. Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, Northbridge t: +61 (0) 8 9228 3755 e: underground@iinet.net.au w:www.undergroundbackpackers.com.au From AU$29 pp/pn. From basic dorms to gorgeous deluxe rooms. Central location, huge outdoor pool, breakfast inc., a/c, linen, airport shuttle, TV room.
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Employment Adecco Level 12, 37 st George’s Terrace, Perth t: +61 (0) 8 9464 5250 w: www.adecco.com.au Business, banking, accounting, secretarial, hospitality and entertainment jobs.
Fremantle Perth Surrounds Sundancer Backpackers Resort 80 High St, Fremantle Oz freephone: 1800 061 144 t: +61 (0) 8 9336 6080 e: info@sundancerbackpackers.com w. www.sundancerbackpackers.com From AU$29 pp/pn. Beautifully restored 110year-old heritage building. Kitchen, spa, TV, pool table. On-site bar. Rottnest Island Allison Camping Area Thomson Bay, Rottnest t: +61 (0) 8 9432 9111 e: reservations@rottnestisland.com w: www.rottnestisland.com From AU$12 pp/pn camping. Known as Tentland, this shady camping ground has a laundry, washing facilities and BBQs. Kingstown Barracks YHA t: +61 (0) 8 9432 9111 e: reservations@rottnestisland.com w: www.rottnestisland.com From AU$32 pp/pn. Old army barracks with TV, kitchen, budget breakfasts, lunches and dinners, bring or hire linen. Lancelin Lodge YHA 10 Hopkins St, Lancelin t: +61 (0) 8 9655 2020 e: accom@lancelinlodge.com.au w: www.lancelinlodge.com.au From AU$27 pp/pn. Friendly and wellequipped, comfy rooms, big pool, volleyball, BBQ area, wood-fire pizza oven. Favourite among surf and beach lovers.
Perth skyline Hays 172 St Georges Terrace, Perth t: +61 (0) 8 9322 5383 w: www.hays.com.au Nationwide recruitment with branches in almost every industry including construction, administration and healthcare. Julia Ross 108 St Georges Terrace t: +61 (0) 8 9486 9600 e: jrperth@juliaross.com w: www.juliaross.com Office support, call centre, customer service, hospitality, banking, health, admin, retail. Kelly Services Level 1, Quayside 2 Mill Street t: +61 (0) 8 9229 1800 e: perth@kellyservices.com w: www.kellyservices.com Global company offering huge variety of recruitment services across most industries. For more employment information and resources, as well as a number of Australian backpacker specific job sites, check the Web Directory on page 107. 75
Perth
Out & About Pubs & Bars Bar138 cnr of Barrack & Hay Sts, Perth Live entertainment, beers and cocktails are plentiful and staff welcoming in this popular Friday night bar. Great for starting a big night out, or just chilling out in the beer garden with mates. The Deen 84 Aberdeen St, Perth This backpacker haven is to Brits what the UK’s Walkabout is to Aussies. Travellers flock here on Mondays to shoot some pool, jump around to live bands and sink cheap beers.
The Lucky Shag Barrack St Jetty, Old Perth Port What’s in a name? Well, quite a lot when it comes to The Lucky Shag. Barbies sizzle, wines flow, and sporting events go off in this lively waterside bar. Add to that live bands, pumping DJ music, jazz on Saturdays and hormone-high backpackers, and you’ve got one hell of a night out. Alfred's Kitchen Cnr Meadow & James St, Guildford A verifiable Perth institution, Alfred's is over 60 years old - which in Australian terms is like a million years. The fact they serve up some of the best burgers in WA into the small hours is only likely to see it thrive for another million years. Zanzibar Bar & Club 43 Mews Rd, Fremantle If you’re into wet t-shirt competitions and mud-wrestling mixed with chart-topping tunes, then this very energetic venue will get the ol’ pheromones surging.
Neon reflections Elephant & Wheelbarrow 53 Lake St, Perth If you’re already feeling home-sick for some British ales and pub grub, then the Elephant is as British as it gets. Backpackers swarm the street-facing beer garden. Fibber McGee’s 711 Newcastle St, Perth This is your typical cosy Irish pub, with lots of the creamy black stuff pulling in locals and travellers. Sunday roasts are a tasty homeaway-from-home treat, and Tuesday’s pint and pasta night is cheap as chips. Little Creatures Brewery 40 Mews Rd, Fremantle Fill up on the amber nectar at this modern micro-brewery. Overlooking the waterfront, you can tour the huge brewing vats, and drink to your liver’s content. The wine is pretty good too, should you not be a fan of the beer. 76
Scenic skyline Clubs Ambar Nightclub 100-104 Murray St, Perth A trendy downtown club, Ambar sees its share of action most nights of the week. A young and fashionable crowd of locals and tourists queue to see some of the latest DJs’ mixes in one of the city’s hottest spots. The Cactus Club 2149 Albany Highway, Perth Relaxed and friendly, this is where you’ll find club classics and commercial dance tunes
Hip-e Club cnr Newcastle & Oxford Sts, Leederville You’ll enter a kaleidoscope world in this very hippyfied club, where psychedelic murals hypnotise you and surf parties rock out ‘til the early morning.
Dome Café St George's Terrace Serving up reliably fresh-food favourites and awesome coffee, the Dome Café is a satisfying, no-hassle food hangout.
Perth
pulling in a big crowd of locals and travellers. Resident DJs lift the house while clubbers chill on the veranda and sink into sofas.
Cantina 663 663 Beaufort Street Fresh ingredients used in the freshest ways at Cantina 663. Great coffee, great food, service and value cement this place as a firm local favourite. Govinda’s Restaurant 194 William St, Northbridge Hare Krishna’s all-you-can-eat lunch is irresistible value. Even the most hardened carnivores won’t be able to resist their mountainous curries and death-free food.
Boats in the bay Metropolis Concert Club Perth 146 Roe St, Perth The definitive clubbing and concert experience, Metros is the biggest club in Perth. Happy and hardcore clubbers cut shapes across its two dance-floors, while several bars line the labyrinth interior. Mint Nightclub cnr Lake & James sts, Northbridge A cool new Perth club with decadent cocktails and a playful vibe. Restaurants & Cafés Cottesloe Beach Café 104 Marine Parade, Cottesloe Climb off the sand and re-fuel in this cool beachfront café. A favourite hang-out of craggy old pop crooner Sting, expect to see chic surfettes and dudes fiercely peoplewatching and posing. It’s worth the pain though, as the food is unbelievably tasty, while being guilt-free. The big breakfasts and ice-cool smoothies hit the spot nicely.
Moorings Café Barrack St Jetty, Old Perth Port Wrap your chops round a succulent emu burger, a kangaroo chop or a basket of freshly-caught crayfish, at this popular waterfront café. Expect big meals and even bigger cocktails. Old Papa's 17 South Terrace, Fremantle This is the ultimate people-watching eatery. Frisbee-sized pizzas, spaghetti favourites and chilled beers are served up with reliable Italian gusto. Old Shanghai Food Market 123 James St, Perth Renowned for large portions delivered at high speed, this popular food hall offers delicious Asian and Italian food without cutting into your beer funds.
Cicerello 44 Mews Rd, Fremantle If you’re craving a good battered fish and mushy peas, with a handful of locally-caught mussels, crabs and crayfish, then look no further than this 90 year-old chippy. Exotic dining companions 77
Perth
Must-Do Activities Maalinup Aboriginal Gallery 10070 West Swan Rd, Henley Brook t: +61 (0) 8 9296 0711 e: manager@maalinup.com.au w: www.maalinup.com.au Informative cultural talks on Aboriginal history, bush foods and tools from descendants of the Wardandi Bibbulmun people. They even offer boomerang lessons. Mandurah Cruises 73 Mandurah Terrace, Mandurah t: +61 (0) 8 9514 5200 e: info@mandurahcruises.com.au w: www.mandurahcruises.com.au The chance to spot dolphins and plenty of other marine life - not to mention the millionaires' mansions along the shore - make the hour ride from Perth more than worth it.
while Call of Duty might be the best game going, it doesn’t compare to the real(ish) thing. At WASP, Perth’s best outdoor paintballing venue, a day of adrenalinepumping, thrill-seeking action guaranteed. Rockingham Wild Encounters Rockingham Beach t: +61 (0) 8 9591 1333 e: info@dolphins.com.au w: www.dolphins.com.au Get to grips with dolphins, sea-lions, penguins and other aquatic Aussie favourites, just 40 minutes south of Perth! Hire a sea kayak to explore Rockingham’s Shoal Water Islands Marine Park.
Windsurfing
The Pinnacles Kings Park & Botanic Garden Fraser Ave, West Perth t: +61 (0) 8 9480 3600 e: enquiries@bgpa.wa.gov.au w: bgpa.wa.gov.au The vast Kings Park & Botanic Garden opens up not far from the heart of the city. With so much natural flora and fauna and unrivalled views of Perth's ever-growing skyline, it's little wonder Kings Park & Botanic Garden is now the number 1 attraction in Perth with 6 million visitors a year. WASP Paintball Canning Vale 15 Baile Rd, Canning Vale t: +61 (0) 4 1891 2795 w: www.wasppaintball.com.au Let’s not pretend that guns aren’t cool and 78
Werner's Hot Spot Lancelin Beach t: +61 (0) 407 426 469 e: windslanc@hotmail.com w: www.windsurfwa.com/werner Feel the rush of that warm Indian Ocean breeze as you head to Lancelin to experience the best kite and wind-surfing action in Western Oz. Backed by huge sand dunes, the town is ideal for sand-boarding and forward-roles. Speed demons can hurtle down the enormous dunes in Big Foot trucks. Yanchep National Park t: +61 (0) 8 9303 7759 e: yanchep@dec.wa.gov.au w: www.dec.wa.gov.au Pack your tent and don your walking boots as you head to the pretty bushland of Yanchep National Park. Home to a protected colony of koalas, and the beautiful (monster-free) Loch McNess, you’ll trek, kayak and swim in untainted wilderness.
Adelaide
Accommodation . . . . 80-81 Employment . . . . . . . . . 82 Out & About . . . . . . . 82-83 Must-Do Activities . . . . 84
Adelaide city
ADELAIDE: Adventure City Adelaide is South Australia’s ‘big country’ city. Drive half-hour in any direction, and you can mountain bike, horse-ride and trek glorious Aussie countryside, or surf and dive off endless white-beaches. There’s so much to do within the surrounds that you might be forgiven for assuming the city itself isn’t up to much, but with its colonial architecture, lush parkland and cool al fresco café culture, Adelaide’s sexy European edge makes it one of the prettiest cities in Oz . To really get to grips with this little slice of utopia, criss-cross the city by bike. Whizz past Adelaide’s Cricket Oval, the neo-gothic St. Peter’s Cathedral, and the impressive Festival Centre. Grab a bite in the busker-filled Rundle Mall or a glass of Jacob’s Creek in bohemian Rundle Street. Chuck some snacks in your backpack and cycle to Adelaide Botanic Gardens to fly a Frisbee and laze on the lake. Come dusk, thousands of possum-eyes illuminate the gum trees that litter the parks. An easy ride from the city is Glenelg beach,
the place to smash into ice-cream and taste the waves (right?). Eye-balling a great white shark is optional, but the best way to see them is with the Rodney Fox Shark Experience. Last chomped on in 1963, Rodney developed an unusual affinity with these carnivores (as opposed to the usual murderous desire for vengeance you’d expect) and is now the originator of shark cage diving. His expedition takes you to the sealpopulated Neptune Islands, where you can jump into the great white’s feeding bowl. Terrifying, sure, but 100% thrill. 79
Adelaide
For that classic Priscilla, Queen of the Desert experience, (stilettos and feather boa optional), the red-rock landscape of the Flinders Ranges makes for an incredible adventure. Dramatic ridges drop down to ancient gorges filled with bouncing kangaroos and flitting emus. Organise a 4WD road-trip to hike Mount Remarkable, or hit the Strzelecki Motorbike Track and watch the Southern Hemisphere’s brightest stars in the night sky.
Kayaking For a calmer water adventure, head up to the pristine Port Willunga Beach to body-board the rolling surf, or hit the Murray River, Australia’s Mississippi equivalent. Adventurers flock to its Chowilla Reserve to kayak, canoe and bushwalk, or hire a big party houseboat. Perfect for mooring at a riverbank and chucking a few shrimps on the barbie. The biggest and tastiest draw to Southern Australia is the grape-plump vineyards of the Barossa Valley. You can spend days wrapping your taste-buds around a smooth merlot or rich Shiraz, or you can go for the easier route and just get good and pissed, we won’t tell your mum (probably).
Kangaroo Island could be one of Earth’s last unspoilt refuges, as one-third of this rock is a conservation park. Koalas, seal pups, ‘roos, penguins and even the odd whale can all be expected. Hire quad-bikes to bomb through the bush or jump into a private timber cabin and hide away from the world. South Australian Visitor & Travel Centre 108 North Terrace , Adelaide t: +61 (0) 8 8463 4694 e: enquiries@southaustralia.com w: www.southaustralia.com Opening Hours: Monday to Friday: 8.30am to 5pm Weekends and Public Holidays: 9am to 2pm
Partner Hostel - Free Night! Blue Galah Backpackers Hostel Level 1 / 62 King William St t: +61 (0) 8 8231 9295 Oz freephone: 1800 555 322 e: info@bluegalah.com.au w: www.bluegalah.com.au From $27 pp/pn in a dorm. Unrivalled city centre location with large balconies and friendly staff, as well as a range of comfy dorms and great facilities.
FRE 80
EN IGH T
FREE night’s stay upon booking four nights, exclusive to Platinum Card holders. FREE breakfast. FREE hot showers, open 24/7. Pool table. Kitchen and laundry facilities. 24-7 convenience deli. Secure lock-up storage. Satellite TV/DVD.
Adelaide Travellers Inn 220 Hutt St Adelaide t: +61 (0) 8 8224 0753 e: bookings@adelaidebackpackers.com.au w: www.adelaidebackpackers.com.au From AU$22 pp/pn in 4 bed dorm Breakfast included, job assistance, TV, linen, Internet and airport shuttle.
Glenelg Beach Hostel 1-7 Moseley St, Glenelg t: +61 (0) 8 8376 0007 e: enquiries@glenelgbeachhostel.com.au w: www.glenelgbeachhostel.com.au From AU$25 pp/pn in dorm. Centrally located in the fun Glenelg Beach area in Adelaide, just metres from the beach. Free breakfast, kitchen, lockers, bar, nightclub, lounge, pool table, BBQ and laundry facilities.
Adelaide
Accommodation
Annie's Place Adelaide 239 Franklin St t: +61 (0) 8 8212 2668 e: info@anniesplace.com.au w: www.anniesplace.com.au From AU$23 pp/pn in 10 bed dorm. Bright and cheery hostel with a cosy atmosphere that comes complete with TV, a/c, restaurant, Internet, on-site bar and breakfast included. Blue Galah Backpackers Hostel 62 King William St t: +61 (0) 8 8231 9295 e: info@bluegalah.com.au w: www.bluegalah.com.au From AU$27 pp/pn. Great location, large balconies and great facilities. Free night’s stay for Platinum Card holders, see opposite page. Cannon Street Backpackers 110 Franklin St t: +61 (0) 8 8410 1218 e: cannonst@bigpond.net.au w: www.cannonst.com.au From AU$25 pp/pn in dorm. Kitchen, laundry, TV room with plasma and cable TV, Internet facilities and opposite the bus station.
Bunk bed backpacking Our House Backpackers 33 Gilbert Place t: +61 (0) 8 8410 4788 e: info@ourhousebackpackers.com w: www.ourhousebackpackers.com From AU$22 pp/pn in dorm. Great central location in spitting distance (for good spitters) from Adelaide CBD, 20 minutes from the airport and beach. Large kitchen, friendly staff and in house bar. Sunny's Adelaide Backpacker Hostel 139 Franklin St t: +61 (0) 8 8231 2430 e: stay@sunnys.com.au w: www.sunnys.com.au From AU$22 pp/pn in dorm. Adelaide’s smallest hostel, which is handily located right by the bus station. Free Internet access, 24hour equipped kitchen, free pancake breakfast and laundry facilities. Tatts Backpackers 17 Hindley St t: +61 (0) 8 8410 8461 w: tattersallshotelandbackpackers.com.au From AU$20 pp/pn in 10 bed dorm. International hostel in a superb central location. Free breakfast, luggage storage, towel hire, Internet and laundry, with TV lounge, restaurant and on-site bar.
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Employment
Out & About
Agencies
Pubs & Bars
Adecco Adecco House, 165 Grenfell St t: +61 (0) 8 8306 8200 e: adelaide@adecco.com.au w: www.adecco.com.au Office employment, CVs necessary.
Archer Hotel 60 O’Connell St Two floors of style for when you’re wanting to feel classy in Adelaide.
Locher 80 Richmond Road, Keswick t: +61 (0) 8 8201 1133 e: recruitment@locher.com.au Office, sales, retail and labour work opportunities. entree 3/81 Flinders Street t: +61 (0) 8 8100 8877 e: apply@entree.com.au Specialises in administrative positions as well as accountancy and human resources.
Austral Hotel 205 Rundle St Well-known Adelaide venue that offers live bands, DJs spinning top tunes and delicious icy cold beer. Belgian Beer Café 27-29 Ebenezer Place (off Rundle St) Drink like a ruddy-cheeked European scoundrel at the Belgian Beer Café, with a rowdy atmosphere and 26 Belgian brews. Hyde Park Tavern 187 King William Rd Traditional pub with plenty of different options; dining, drinking and dancing to suit whatever mood you might be in. Oyster Bar 14 East Terrace Cool bar that’s definitely worth checking out on Tuesdays when the oysters are half-price (and the crowd is twice as amorous).
Adelaide pier Hays 17/11-19 Grenfall St t: +61 (0) 8 8231 0820 e: adelaide@hays.com.au Office, sales, retail and labour work available. Seasonal Torrens Valley Orchards Gumeracha, Adelaide Hills t: +61 (0) 8 8389 1405 w: www.tvo.com.au Year-round seasonal work 50 minutes outside of Adelaide. For more employment information and resources, as well as a number of Australian backpacker specific job sites, check the Web Directory on page 107.
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Victoria Square fountain Worldsend Hotel 208 Hindley St Student hang-out for when you fancy getting down and dirty with the young ‘uns of Adelaide.
HQ Complex 1 North Terrace Very popular Adelaide venue, with a cool mix of music ranging from retro and R&B to house and dance.
Genki Roll Adelaide Central Plaza Cheap but authentic Japanese restaurant in suitably oriental-influenced setting.
Adelaide
Clubs
Mars Bar 120 Gouger St A Mars a day helps you work, rest and play well into the early hours at this lively gay and lesbian dance joint. Restaurants & Cafés Biga Panifico Bar 200 Hutt St A European-like bakery, cafe and bar with lots of Italian style. A busy and cheerful place, with a big church-like bench dining hall.
Adelaide street
Bocelli Café Ristorante 81 Hutt St Modern Italian food at budget prices, with fast service and quite wicked pizza, yum yum.
Lucia’s Pizza Bar 2 Western Parade Traditional Italian food made with locally sourced ingredients for a true AustralianItalian fusion. Pie Cart Adelaide Railway Station, Northern Terrace The Aussie ideal for any party snacking, the Pie Cart is a must for any late-night, postbooze munchin’. Shiki Intercontinental Adelaide, Upper Level For some of the best Japanese food to be found anywhere this far south of Tokyo, Shiki is the place to be with plenty of awards to back up its claims.
Paddling down the river Eros Kafe 275 Rundle St Australian Greek resturant that is sexy and sleek with plenty of fabulous food. Exeter Hotel 152 Semaphore Rd Pleasantly laid-back pub specialising in cheap and cheerful grub at any time of day. Hawker’s Corner 141 West Terrace Cheap as chips Asian cuisine (or egg fried rice) with bustling food hall surroundings.
Sfera’s 1877 Restaurant 561 Montague Road Fine Italian dining, although it may stretch backpacking budgets. Short Black 87 Hindley St Chocka block with sexy young Adelaidians, it’s ideal for sipping on a tasty latte outside or nestling amongst some hot Aussie talent. Ying Chow 114 Gouger St Constantly crowded, but when you consider the quality and the astonishing low prices, you’ll be prepared to queue. 83
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Must-Do Activities Adelaide Botanic Gardens North Terrace, Adelaide t: +61 (0) 8 8222 9311 w: www.botanicgardens.sa.gov.au Comprised of three botanic gardens and having served the community of South Australia for more than 140 years, the Adelaide Botanic Gardens are a cultural institution and a great place to go when you just want to get away from it all.
10% OFF
Adventure Tours Australia t: 1300 654 604 e: reservations@adventuretours.com.au w: www.adventuretours.com.au Adventure Tours Australia is one of Australia's leading small group tour companies. Based in Adelaide, they offer tours going from pretty much wherever you are to wherever you want to be. From accommodated soft adventure tours to package travel deals, Visa Bureau Platinum Card holders can get a tasty 10% discount on all multi-day tours provided they are booked directly with Adventure Tours. Blue Water Sea Kayaking Garden Island boat ramp, Gillman t: +61 (0) 8 8295 8812 e: bookings@adventurekayak.com.au w: www.adventurekayak.com.au Paddling alongside fish, birds and dolphins while you canoe down the Port River is an astonishing experience. 84
Adelaide Zoo Frome Road t: +61 (0) 8 8267 3255 w: www.adelaidezoo.com.au There's plenty to see in one of Australia's best zoos but what sets Adelaide Zoo apart from the crowd are the pandas. 'Wang Wang' and 'Funi' are both less than 10 years old and are currently the only giant pandas in the Southern Hemisphere. Kangaroo Island Outdoor Action Jetty Rd, Vivonne Bay, Kangaroo Island t: +61 (0) 8 8559 4296 w: www.kioutdooraction.com.au Want to get out there and really experience South Australia’s natural beauty and wildlife? On Kangaroo Island, you can jump on a quad bike and take a tour of the amazing surrounds, or, if you’re comfortable with a paddle, get yourself a double kayak while Little Sahara can be tackled with sandboards and toboggans. Rodney Fox Shark Experience 73 Ninth Avenue, Joslin t: +61 (0) 8 8363 1788 e: silvy@rodneyfox.com.au w: www.rodneyfox.com.au Rodney Fox is the only operation in the world where SCUBA divers can safely and easily descend right down (up to 18m or 60ft) below to the ocean floor, in submersible cages. If you’re feeling brave, you can even feed them!
Dolphin swimming Temptation Sailing Holdfast Shores Marina, Glenelg t: +61 (0) 412 811 838 e: info@dolphinboat.com.au w: www.dolphinboat.com.au Fancy swimming with dolphins? Temptation Sailing give you the chance to get up close and personal with our flippered friends in style using their enormous catamaran.
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Hobart
Accommodation . . . . . . 88 Employment . . . . . . . . . 89 Out & About . . . . . . . . . . 90 Must-Do Activities . . 90-91
Hobart harbour by night
HOBART: Wild & Green A small, heart-shaped island of mountainous peaks and deep lush valleys, Tasmania is often overlooked by backpackers intent on seeing the glossier cities and states in Australia. However, for any visitor, there are plenty of opportunities to see unique wildlife and Aboriginal sites, go wild with adrenalin activities in the wilderness, or just settle down at your water side local and enjoy premium cool-climate wines with the fattest oysters you’ve ever seen!
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The busy harbour of Hobart, the Tasmanian state capital, has a rich history and is modern, pretty and lively. It was once bustling with whalers but now the old colonial district and Georgian warehouses on Salamanca Place, near the waterfront, is where the hip and happening hang out with markets and shops in the day giving way to bands, music, and wine at night.
world. Splash out at the uber-cool Mures restaurant or keep things within budget with the fish and chip takeaway barges on Constitution Dock.
The Hobart waterfront is also where you will find some of the best oysters, abalone, mussels, scallops, crayfish and snapper in the
Likewise, just outside of Hobart in the foothills of Mt Wellington is Cascade Brewery, Australia’s oldest continuously operating
If you are keen on a bit of history, the Old Pub Tour by Hobart Historic Tours will give you a look at the city’s colourful and historic pubs combined with a few light refreshments.
Hobart
brewery where the beer has been flowing since 1824. Take a tour of the brewery (free samples!) and you also get to try classic Tasmanian brews only available in the state. Taking a tour of the Cadbury Chocolate Factory just 15 km outside of Hobart is a must-chew (are you having that?) for chocolate lovers, and there are samples to enjoy and discounts on the good stuff at the end of the tour. There are plenty of good surf beaches not far from Hobart; Clifton Beach is one of the best while on the nearby Bruny Island the southern beaches such as Cloudy Bay are also good for a wave. You can also beach yourself by surfing the remote Marrawah on the west coast, where the Indian Ocean throws up enormous surf. In Mount William National Park, along the east coast of Tasmania, you can follow the Bay of Fires walk past forrester kangaroos, Aboriginal middens, woodlands and white beaches. Plus, there’s game fishing or diving from the picturesque port of St Helens on the shores of Georges Bay Get the adrenaline going with a thrilling white-water rafting trip on the pristine Franklin River in the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park in central Tassie. You can also see a major Aboriginal archaeological site at Katikina Cave in the park and climb the Frenchmans Cap mountain. See the wilderness and stretch your legs by walking the 65km (40 mile) Overland Track through the rugged Cradle Mountain-Lake St
Tasmanian Devil Clare National Park and climb the dolerite columns to the summit of Cradle Mountain. Bring your sleeping bag and crash at the catered huts along the way, but don’t forget to book a bunk during the busy months from 1 November to 30 April. Just over two hours’ drive north of Hobart is Tasmania’s second largest city, Launceston. A small and compact city which is easy to explore, Launceston is filled with elegant Edwardian buildings and century-old parks. The striking Cataract Gorge is just a walk from the urban centre, the gorge’s steep, rugged cliffs and wild areas attract plenty of rock climbers but you can also talk a chairlift to enjoy the panoramic views if you prefer. Further north-west is The Nut, which you can tackle by taking the walking track and climbing to the summit, or take the chairlift and enjoy the spectacular view across the Bass Strait beaches. Also, at the base of The Nut is the sweet town of Stanley, where you can take tours to spot fur seals, penguins, sea birds and more that make their home close to the town. Hobart Visitor Centre 20 Davey Street t: +61 (0) 3 6238 4222 e: bookings@hobarttravelcentre.com.au w: www.hobarttravelcentre.com.au Opening hours Mon - Fri 8:30 am - 5:30pm Sat - Sun 9:00am - 5:00pm Public Holidays 9.00am - 5.00pm (Closed Christmas Day)
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Accommodation The Pickled Frog Backpackers 281 Liverpool St t: +61 (0) 3 6234 7977 e: info@thepickledfrog.com w: www.thepickledfrog.com This bright green hostel is perfectly located in the heart of Hobart with just a 10 minute walk to the waterfront and town centre. It has WiFi, an in-house bar, large communal kitchen, a big screen TV and comfy lounges to boot. Central City Backpackers 138 Collins Street, Hobart Oz freephone: 1800 811 507 t: +61 (0) 3 6224 2404 e: bookings@centralcityhobart.com w: www.centralcityhobart.com Right in the thick of the city and just steps away from everything this backpackers’ is cheap and cheerful. You can take your own sleeping bag, or hire a top sheet and quilt for only AU$2 the entire stay (not per night). Montgomery’s Hotel and YHA Backpackers 9 Argyle Street, Hobart t: +61 (0) 3 6231 2660 e: montys@yhatas.org.au w: www.montgomerys.com.au Only three minutes’ walk from Salamanca Place and the city’s waterfront, the modern hostel has shared rooms, private rooms with shared bathrooms, and en suite rooms. Plus there is a pub and bistro next door with good value meals.
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Adelphi Court YHA 17 Stoke Street, New Town t: +61 (0) 3 6228 4829 e: adelphi@yhatas.org.au The Adelphi is quiet, well-equipped and friendly with parking available. It is 2.5km from the city and has four share dorms, twin or double rooms, or twin/doubles with private bathrooms.
Top of Mt Wellington Narrara Backpackers 88 Goulburn Street, Hobart t: +61 (0) 3 6234 8801 e: info@narrarabackpackers.com w: www.narrarabackpackers.com Only a five minute walk from the centre of town, Narrara has been recently refurbished and has friendly staff with lots of regional knowledge and bushwalking tips. Plus, all linen is provided free of charge. Transit Backpackers 251 Liverpool Street, Hobart t: +61 (0) 3 6231 2400 e: transitbackpackers@bigpond.com w: www.transitbackpackers.com Upstairs at the Redline bus station, Transit Backpackers is cheap, relaxed and in a good location. The rooms are a bit small and can quickly get a bit crowded. Hobart Hostel 41 Barrack Street, Hobart t: 1300 252 192 e: info@hobarthostel.com w: www.hobarthostel.com Not far from Salamanca Place as well as plenty of shops and the bus terminus, not to mention hot showers (they have gas!) a rooftop courtyard, views and BBQ and a tour desk, Hobart Hostel certainly offers plenty of bang for your buck.
Hobart
Employment Agencies Searson Buck 183 Macquarie St, Hobart t: +61 (0) 3 6223 3055 w: www.searsonbuck.com.au Temporary or casual employment over a range of industries including admin, hospitality, industrial, manufacturing and harvesting. Jet Recruitment Level 4, 95 Albert Road t: +61 (0) 3 6242 8300 w: www.jetrecruitment.com.au Help with office and admin, sales and marketing, and manufacturing employment. Big Fish 31 Davey St, Hobart t: +61 (0) 3 6231 0001 w: www.thinkbigfish.com.au Hospitality and tourism, agribusiness and rural, retail and manufacturing jobs. Chandler MacLeod First Floor Unit 3/94 Central Ave Derwent Park t: +61 (0) 3 6273 6400 w: www.chandlermacleod.com Part of an Australia-wide recruitment company with jobs in a large range of industries. Seasonal Jobs are available picking orchard fruits, cherries and other stone fruit, grapes, and hops but competition is strong, so register your names with the farmers and packers by September each year for the coming season. Fruit Growers Tasmania Pickers Register w: www.fruitgrowerstas.com.au Industry association representing apple, pear, cherry and stone fruit growers. Fill out the online form and be placed on the pickers register. Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm A1 Bass Highway, midway between Deloraine and Elizabeth Town t: +61 (0) 3 6362 2766 e: julie@raspberryfarm.com.au w:www.fruit-pickers-tasmania.com.au
Pickin’ apples Fruit picking jobs available from December to April each year in North West Tasmania. They prefer workers to say for a minimum of three or four weeks. Reid Fruits Redlands Orchard New Norfolk t: +61 (0) 3 6261 5620 e: marksalter@reidfruits.com.au w: www.reidfruits.com.au Cherry picking starts second week in December to the end of February. Experience not necessary but workers must be prepared to work up to six days per week during the busy harvest season. Reid Fruits cherry grading and packing Apple Valley Coolstores, Huonville t: +61 (0) 408 622 500 e: debrareid@reidfruits.com.au w: www.reidfruits.com.au Jobs during the busy harvest and export season. Work from mid-December to end of Feb. Qew Orchards 331 Fingerpost Road, Campania t: +61 (0) 3 6260 4509 e: qew.harvest@gmail.com w: www.qeworchards.com.au Apricot harvest runs for six weeks between December and February. Register on the Qew Orchards website or through the Searson Buck recruitment agency. For more employment information and resources, as well as a number of Australian backpacker specific job sites, check the Web Directory on page 107. 89
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Out & About Pubs & Bars Bar Celona 23 Salamanca Square, Hobart A busy cafe and bar that is a popular nighttime spot for drinks. Knopwood’s Retreat 39 Salamaca Place, Hobart An icon in the Hobart scene, the sandstone warehouse has about a dozen beer taps, wine and good pub food.
Fancy a swim? if you are watching the pennies, or head to the Upper Deck for some serious posh dining. Vietnamese Kitchen 61 Salamanca Pl, Hobart Quick, cheap and tasty food that’s a real bargain in Salamanca. Machine Laundry Café 12 Salamanca Square, Hobart Wash your clothes in the laundrette side while you sit down with something from the all-day breakfast menu from the cafe.
Mures seafood Irish Murphy’s 21 Salamanca Place, Hobart Requisite Irish pub yes, but also cosy and fun and smack in the middle of the happening part of town. Republic Bar and Café 299 Elizabeth Street, North Hobart Good food, live music, a beer garden ... it’s the ideal republic! Clubs Round Midnight Upstairs, 39 Salamanca Place, Hobart Life music and DJs above Knopwood’s Retreat. Isobar 11a Franklin Wharf, Hobart A good bar downstairs and a late-night club upstairs with house, retro and R&B music. Restaurants & Cafés Mures Victora Dock, Hobart Arguably the best-known restaurant in Hobart, Mures will serve up seafood that is out of this world. Keep to Mures Lower Deck 90
Criterion St Café 10 Criterion Street, Hobart A popular cafe in the city centre with a large menu and plenty of vegetarian options. New Sydney Hotel 87 Bathurst Street, Hobart Cheap and cheerful counter meals to fill you up, as well as a cosy watering hole and live music venue in the city centre. Salamanca Bakehouse 5 Salamanca Square, Hobart In a prime spot in Salamanca Place for latenight munchies, thankfully, it’s also open 24 hours.
Must-do Activities Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery Dunn Place, Hobart t: +61 (0) 3 6211 4134 w: www.tmag.tas.gov.au The free museum in Hobart’s oldest existing building has Aboriginal displays as well as interesting and important items from the state’s colonial heritage. There are also free guided tours of the museum’s collections once a day from Wednesday to Sunday.
and past high sea cliffs, see fur seals, dolphins, albatross, and migrating whales. Departs from Hobart daily at 8am. Tasmanian Devil Conservation Park Port Arthur Highway, Taranna t: +61 3 6250 3230 w: www.tasmaniandevilpark.com See real live Tasmanian devils feeding, snarling and being devilish, as well as kangaroos, wallabies, eagles, rare hawks and other unique Tasmanian native animals.
Hobart
Cascade Brewery 140 Cascade Road, Hobart t: +61 (0) 3 6224 1117 w: www.cascadebrewery.com.au Australia’s oldest brewery still produces fantastic beers from the south western edge of the city centre. A tour also includes free samples, but because it is a working brewery covered flat shoes (no flip flops) and long trousers are essential. Don’t forget to book before you go. Cadbury Chocolate Factory 100 Cadbury Road, Claremont Oz freephone: 1800 250 260 w: www.cadbury.com.au The place where chocolate comes to life! Guided tours taking in history, making and manufacturing of chocolate plus demonstrations are held weekdays, except public holidays. There are also samples to try along the way and discounts from the gift shop. Hobart Historic Walk and Historic Pub Tours Departing from the Visitor Centre, Hobart t: +61 (0) 3 6227 9029 w: www.hobarthistorictours.com.au Explore Hobart and learn about its past on the one and a half hour Historic Walk, or join a relaxing Old Pub Tour of the city's underbelly. All bookings and inquires can be made at the Visitor’s Centre, cnr Davey and Elizabeth Streets (which is also the departure point). Bruny Island Cruises 915 Adventure Bay Road, Adventure Bay t: +61 (0) 3 6293 1465 w: www.brunycruises.com.au A three hour wilderness cruise along the rugged coast of Bruny Island, into sea caves
Wilderness! Port Arthur Tasman Peninsula, Tasmania Oz freephone: 1800 659 101 t: +61 (0) 3 6251 2310 e: reservations@portarthur.org.au w: www.portarthur.org.au Australia’s most intact convict site, with more than 30 buildings, ruins and restored period homes from the prison’s establishment in 1830 until it closed in 1877. For a small additional fee you can also cruise to the Isle of the Dead and join a guided tour of Port Arthur’s island burial ground to get an insight into the conditions of the time. Boag’s Brewery 39 William Street, Launceston t: +61 (0) 3 6332 6300 w: www.boags.com.au The Boag’s Beer Lovers Tour takes you into the brewing process and techniques, finishing with a tasting of four award-winning beers matched with King Island cheese. Tours start and finish at the Boag’s Centre for Beer Lovers from Monday to Friday.
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Melbourne
Accommodation . . . . 93-95 Employment . . . . . . . . . 96 Out & About . . . . . . . 96-98 Must-Do Activities . . 98-99
Bright lights of Melbourne
MELBOURNE: Style & Culture Synonymous with a cutting-edge arts scene, a proud sporting history and an array of international restaurants, Melbourne is often said to be Australia’s most liveable city. Unlike Sydney’s dramatic cityscape, Melbourne’s Victorian-era architecture gives the city its loveable oldstyle charm. Hip designer-boutiques neighbour authentic Italian cafés while Spanish tapas bars fling their doors invitingly open and retromusic bars fill with chic Melbourne peeps. Scratch the enormous cultural surface of Melbourne, and you’ll find a smorgasbord of galleries, museums, innovative theatre and a fantastic calendar of festivals. Recognised as Australia’s ‘arts capital’, the Southbank is where it’s at. From the National Gallery of Victoria to the sweet sounds of the Melbourne Symphony, this is art central. And, if Billy Elliot has given you a new appreciation for the tutu, you’ll find exceptional performances of innovative dance with the Australian Ballet. Comedy nerds 92
shouldn’t miss the hilarious acts at the Melbourne Comedy Festival. If it’s the chic European lifestyle you’re craving, then stroll the Parisian-inspired architecture of Colin’s Street or wander down Bourke Street’s 1896-built Royal Arcade. Head to Fitzroy Street to mingle with Melbourne’s young and edgy-set, or just relax in one of the many umbrella-dotted cafés. Neighbouring Brunswick Street is a labyrinth of hip boutiques, antiquarian bookshops and a cozy spread of bistros, bars and boozers.
Melbourne Cricket Ground When buzzing on shots of espresso, sport comes as a welcome release. Melbourne’s sporting-life is very handy, as it has the bestdeveloped cluster of sporting facilities in the world. Catch an Ashes test match or an exhilarating Aussie Rules footie game at Melbourne Cricket Ground. Alternatively, grab your top hat as you step up to Flemington Race Course for the famous Melbourne Cup. Speed fanatics will go wild for the Australian Formula One Grand Prix held at Albert Park, and tennis enthusiasts mustn’t miss the late night excitement of the Australian Open. If the thought of a weekend of bushwalking, cycling and copious amounts of wine-tasting perks you up, then the fertile hills of the Yarra Valley is for you. Take a bush and wine tour, or tackle the walking trails of Yarra Ranges National Park. Healesville Sanctury has a fab Platypus House and Badger Creek.
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Finally, some of the neighbouring islands offer amazing exeriences. If you fancy picnicking with penguins, and getting up close with seals, then camp or b&b it on Phillip Island. Look beyond the dramatic Nobbies Rocks to see big-whiskered seals flopped over rocks, while surfing newbies can find easy breaks at Shelly Beach.
Melbourne
For a touch of the mysterious, pack a picnic and take a daytrip to Hanging Rock; a sacred site of the Wurundjeri Aborigines with walking and cycle tracks. You may even spot the odd tree-hugging koala.
Melbourne Visitor Centre Federation Square (cnr Flinders & Swanston Sts) 2 Swanston St, Melbourne t: +61 (0) 3 9658 9658 w: www.thatsmelbourne.com.au Opening hours 9am to 6pm Monday to Sunday
Partner Hostel - Free Night! Habitat HQ 333 St Kilda Road, St Kilda (between Inkerman & Carlisie Sts) t: +61 (0) 3 9537 3777 e: info@habitathq.com.au w: www.habitathq.com.au From AU$26 pp/pn in 10 bed dorm Recipient of TripAdvisor’s acclaimed Certificate of Excellence 2013! The award winning 4.5 star backpackers is in the funky, beachside St Kilda on the fringe of Melbourne city. Their super clean and modern facilities along with the relaxed vibe and grassroots culture are what they are awarded for! FREE night to Platinum Card holders upon booking 4 nights (dorms only) FREE continental breakfast FREE wireless Internet FREE airport pick up from Tullamarine for stays of 3 or more nights (conditions apply) FREE guitars to use and open mic night FREE walking tours on Fridays FREE secure car parking FREE pancake breakfast on Wednesdays FREE seasonal dinner on Thursdays 93
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Accommodation The Greenhouse Backpackers 228 Flinders Lane Oz freephone: 1800 249 207 t: +61 (0) 3 9639 6400 e: greenhouse@friendlygroup.com.au w: www.friendlygroup.com.au From AU$32 pp/pn. Brilliantly located, friendly, very clean, with a rooftop garden, free Internet, hot drinks and breakfast.
Home at the Mansion 80 Victoria Parade t:+61 (0) 3 9663 4212 e: info@homemansion.com.au w: www.homehostels.com.au From AU$23 pp/pn. Located in the heart of Melbourne, this giant hostel (96 beds!) is a great place to meet some new mates.
Nomads Industry Backpackers 198 A'Beckett St Oz freephone: 1800 44 77 62 w: www.nomadsindustry.com e: info@nomadsmelbourne.com From AU$25 pp/pn. Helpful and welcoming hotel with clean rooms, some en-suite. Free dinner every night and linen provided. Hotel Discovery Melbourne 167 Franklin St t: +61 (0) 3 9329 7525 w: www.discoverymelbourne.com.au From AU$26 pp/pn in a 16 bed dorm. Great location in the city centre - two mins from the famous Queen Victoria Market. Huge hostel, basement bar, rooftop garden, breakfast included and loads of free inclusions. Exford Hotel Backpackers Russell & Little Bourke Sts t: +61 (0) 3 9663 2697 e: res@exfordhotel.com.au w: www.exfordhotel.com.au From AU$26 pp/pn. Central Chinatown hostel. Locker in rooms, clean rooms, on-site bar.
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Funky nightscape Melbourne Metro YHA 78 Howard St, North Melbourne t: +61 (0) 3 9329 8599 e: melbmetro@yha.com.au w: www.yha.com.au From AU$34 pp/pn. Winner of 2008 Victorian Award for best backpacker accommodation... The Nunnery Guesthouse 116 Nicholson St, Fitzroy Oz freephone: 1800 032 635 t: +61 (0) 3 9419 8637 e: info@nunnery.com.au w: www.nunnery.com.au From AU$32 pp/pn. Sweeping stairways, comfy rooms, Internet, free wine & nibbles as well as soup and ice-cream on Fridays. Base St Kilda Melbourne 17 Carlisle St, St. Kilda, Melbourne Oz freephone: 1800 242 273 t: +61 (0) 3 8598 6200 e: melbourne@stayatbase.com w: www.stayatbase.com From AU$29 pp/pn. Hip area. All rooms are ensuite, security lockers, heating/air-con and free linen. Travel desk, on-site Red Eye Bar.
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Claremont Hotel 189 Toorak Rd, South Yarra t: +61 (0) 3 9826 8000 e: info@hotelclaremont.com w: www.hotelclaremont.com From AU$34 pp/pn. Victorian guesthouse, clean, free light breakfast. Public transport stops outside the door. Home Travellers Motel 32 Carlisle St, St Kilda t: +61 (0) 3 9534 0300 e: info@hometravellersmotel.com.au w: www.homehostels.com.au From AU$19 pp/pn. Another in the Home Hostels group, the Home Travellers Motel is located on the beach doorstep. Dorm rooms available for the budget (or beer) minded backpacker, alternatively private motel-style rooms available. Urban Central Backpackers 334 City Rd, Southbank Oz freephone: 1800 631 288 t: +61 (0) 3 9693 3700 e: stayplay@urbancentral.com.au w: www.urbancentral.com.au From AU$24 pp/pn. With all-female and allmale dorms (as well as mixed dorms), secure, personal lockers and breakfast included, Urban Central offers a great base if you’re just starting your adventure.
Melbourne skyline King Street Backpackers 197-199 King St Oz freephone: 1800 671 115 t: +61 (0) 3 9670 1111 e: info@kingstreetbackpackers.com.au w: www.kingstreetbackpackers.com.au From AU$25 pp/pn. Located in the heart of Melbourne, just 200m from Melbourne's transport hub, Southern Cross train station. Also features a large modern kitchen, bright and clean rooms, and loads of areas to catch up with friends or just chill-out. There are free meals through the week, breakfast included, tour and job information, all linen and free luggage storage. Lords Lodge Backpackers 204 Punt Rd, Prahran t: +61 (0) 3 9510 5658 w: www.lordslodge.com.au From AU$25 pp/pn. Lords Lodge Backpackers is close to all Melbourne's sporting and entertainment venues, providing small, relaxed and friendly accommodation and clean, quality rooms.
Neon city streets
Ritz Backpackers 169b Fitzroy St, St. Kilda Beach t: +61 (0) 3 9525 3501 e: info@ritzbackpackers.com w: www.ritzbackpackers.com From AU$23 pp/pn. Close to all the action of Melbourne’s non-stop nightlife, with spacious, clean rooms to crash in, and a fully equipped kitchen and huge common room too. Also comes complete with a pub downstairs that’s home to the famous Neighbours night. 95
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Employment
Out & About
Agencies
Pubs & Bars
Worktrainers Employment Services Echuca 83a Nish St, Echuca t: +61 (0) 3 5480 6422 e: echuca@worktrainers.com.au w: www.worktrainers.com.au Community business providing recruitment services for most types of businesses.
E:fiftyfive 55 Elizabeth St Travellers flock to this moodily-lit hangout to sink into fat sofas and swap tales over a few beers.
DFP Recruitment Services Level 8, 379 Collins St t: +61 (0) 3 8632 9900 e: vic@dfp.com.au w: www.dfp.com.au Administration, secretarial and customer service specialisation. Hoban Recruitment Level 21, 303 Collins St t: +61 (0) 3 9203 4900 e: rmelbourne@hoban.com.au w: www.hoban.com.au Office support and retail service work.
Come on in, the next round’s yours! Elephant & Wheelbarrow 94-96 Bourke Street Fancy sharing a brew with Harold Bishop and a cuddle with Toadfish? Monday night is Neighbours’ cast night! Night Cat 141 Johnson St, Fitzroy, St. Kilda Cosy lamp-lit corners and an atmosphere thick with live jazz, soul and blues tunes, the Night Cat draws Melbourne’s coolest toetapping cats.
Home of Aussie cricket Seasonal Stoneview Orchards Fryers Rd, Elphinstone e: info@stonevieworchards.com.au w: www.stonevieworchards.com.au Seasonal work available for fruit pickers from February to May. No experience necessary. For more employment information and resources, as well as a number of Australian backpacker specific job sites, check the Web Directory on page 107. 96
Rue Bebelons 267 Lt Lonsdale St Sway to vintage vinyl tunes and mix with an eclectic crowd in this small but lively bar. Double Happiness 21 Liverpool St Chill in this Chinese propaganda-inspired bar, where its Tsingtao beers will leave you very, very happy. Nomads Industry Bar & Café 198 A’Beckett St Part of the Nomads Backpackers, see the night through in this lively traveller favourite. Don’t miss happy hour!
Restaurants & Cafés
The Marquee Club 127 Dorcas St, South Melbourne Melbourne’s best DJs keep two levels of dancing revellers wide-eyed ‘til 7am. A top clubbin’ venue!
Vegie Bar 380 Brunswick St, Fitzroy Grab a pavement seat and vege-out on lipsmacking Mexican bean burritos in this chic Fitzroy haunt.
The Croft Institute 21-25 Croft Alley Feverish party-goers burn up the astro-turf dance floor in this urban chic, hospitalthemed bar.
Stalactites 177-183 Lonsdale St 24-hour delicious Greek munchies to soak-up the booze. A hectic eatery, but the plump souvlakis are worth the mania.
Melbourne
Clubs
Stokehouse 30 Jacka Boulevard, St. Kilda Waterside views and tasty fish and chips, as well as tasty wood-fired pizzas. Just be sure to watch out for greedy no-good seagulls trying to swoop in on your grub.
Hottin’ up in Mellies Honkytonks Duckboard Place A plush interior, to-die-for cocktails and world-renowned DJs; Melbournites flock for its Flinders Street views. Lounge 243 Swanston St Hosting Melbourne's most reputable club nights; 10 DJs and live-acts fill six rooms with climaxing tunes. Revolver Upstairs 229 Chapel St, Prahran A Thai restaurant, a stomping nightclub, a cinema and a pool parlour: it’s an unstoppable clubbing machine. Room 680 1st Floor, 680 Glenferrie Rd, Hawthorn Melbourne’s fashionistas and wanna-be models fill this glittering retro-style ballroom, while international DJs spin a masterful mix.
Coffee ahoy! Galleon Café 9 Carlisle St, St. Kilda Even dogs are welcome at this famous breakfast base. Coco Pops crackle, muffins burst with berries and the scrambled eggs are deliciously farm-fresh. YUM! Claypots Seafood Bar 213 Barkly St, St. Kilda Prepare to devour pots of spicy seafood, washed down with excellent vino. A welcoming Melbournite favourite. Nudel Bar 76 Bourke St, Central From Italian to Asian, Nudel Bar is a little gem, serving meltingly-good macaroni cheese and spaghetti bolognese fit for the hypothetical Italian Mamma of your choosing.
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Moroccan Soup Bar 183 St. Georges Rd Like some confusion with your food? Try the Morroccan Soup Bar. Astonishingly delicious, but there’s no menu or prices, just sassy service and bloody good food.
Must-Do Activities
Pelligrini’s 66 Bourke St Pasta-tastic menu (although there’s some good pizza and risotto on there too) for anyone who fancies chowing down on all your Italian favourites in a ‘50s-style espresso bar. Wine-tasting Yamato 28 Corrs Lane Shoes off or shoes on? It’s up to you in this bustling Japanese restaurant, as there’s a special tatami room for groups, but the food is good-value and tasty whether you’re just in your socks or not. Supper Inn 15-17 Celestial Avenue It may be a post-club fave, but this Cantonese restaurant is tasty whenever. Its popularity is such that queuing is likely at all times of the day.
Cheers! Sushi Deli 395 Little Bourke St The sushi is great and the staff are friendly, but the tiny seating area means it might be best to go for the takeaway option. Ezard at Adelphi 187 Flinders Lane A classier option for when you’re feeling flush, Ezard mashes Asian and European cuisine together for a menu that’s very much in keeping with modern Australia. Make sure you book ahead though.
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Backpacker Winery Tours Yarra Valley t: +61 (0) 3 9419 4444 e: info@austwinetourco.com.au w: www.backpackerwinerytours.com.au Wine-taste yourself round the vast and pretty vineyards of the Yarra Valley, on a Backpackers Winery Tour. Quaff Australia’s most delectable grape-juice as you visit wineries in Melbourne, St. Kilda and the Yarra Valley. Challenge Paintball and Laser Skirmish Upper Beaconsfield t: +61 (0) 3 9745 2955 e: info@adrenalingames.com.au w: www.adrenalingames.com.au Challenge Paintball and Laser Skirmish offers a great day out to experience the rush of paintball and laser skirmish in Wallan East. Chinatown Little Bourke St w: www.chinatownmelbourne.com.au Experience an unexpected slice of authentic 19th-century China by strolling through the narrow lanes of old ‘goldrush’ boardinghouses. Hit Little Bourke Street for the best dim sum this side of China. Dandenong Ranges Dandenong Ranges w: www.experiencethedandenongs.com.au Enter an ethereal fairytale forest as you trek past gigantic tree-ferns and fragrant Eucalyptus trees. Leafy clearings reveal wooden cabins, reflected in tranquil lakes. The colours are so eye-wateringly perfect, that even Technicolor can’t compete.
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Eureka Tower Skydeck 88 Riverside Quay, Southbank t: +61 (0) 3 9693 8888 e: info@eurekaskydeck.com.au w: www.eurekaskydeck.com.au Whizz up the Southern Hemisphere’s highest residential building and climb into the ‘Edge’ a glass cube which projects out from the building, with you in it suspended 300m above the ground. David Blaine would be proud of you (if he’d only answer your texts). Fun City Go Karts 234 Ballarat Road t: +61 (0) 3 9317 8222 e: info@234fungalore.com.au w: www.funcitygokarts.com.au Fun City boasts an adrenalin pumping go-kart racing circuit, dodgem cars, sumo wrestling, Internet café and more!
P-p-p-penguins Phillip Island’s Famous Penguins Phillip Island t: +61 (0) 3 5951 2800 e: info@penguins.org.au w: www.penguins.org.au Visit Phillip Island at dusk, and you’ll see hundreds of fairy penguins emerge from the surf and form a waddling parade to the dunes. It’s just one big Happy Feet extravaganza. Kayak Melbourne Upper Beaconsfield t: +61 (0) 3 9939 6537 e: info@kayakmelbourne.com.au w: www.kayakmelbourne.com.au Kayak Melbourne gives you the chance to experience a unique guided kayaking tour of the Docklands and downtown Melbourne.
Kiteboarding Katani Kiteboarding Lessons Westbeach Bather's Pavilion, Beaconsfield Parade, St. Kilda West t: 1300 528 264 w: www.katani.com.au Kiteboarding is a brand new way to get your adrenaline pumping to hazardous levels. Katani Kiteboarding offers lessons regardless of your experience. From beginners to advanced wind-riders, everyone and anyone’s welcome and all equipment is provided.
Melbourne Zoo’s ‘Roar ‘n’ Snore’ Elliott Avenue, Parkville t: +61 (0) 3 9285 9300 e: mz@zoo.org.au w: www.zoo.org.au This is as close to sleeping lions as you’re gonna get. Watch animals turn nocturnal tricks on a night tour, then camp in the middle of the zoo. Childhood dream realised. Polperro Dolphin Swims Sorrento Pier t: +61 (0) 3 5988 8437 e: crew@polperro.com.au w: www.polperro.com.au Spend a full-day swimming with bottlenose dolphins and snorkelling the reef off beautiful Port Phillip Bay then hop on to the galley to warm your cockles on hot cocoa and scones. 99
Canberra
Accommodation . . . . . . 102 Employment . . . . . . . . . 103 Out & About . . . . . 103-104 Must-Do Activities . . . . 105
Canberra
CANBERRA: Capital Cool The governing state-capital of Australia is Canberra, a city of startling paradoxes. First impressions of the city’s imposing governmental buildings and rigid city design suggest a more conservative vibe, but you’d be very much mistaken; its huge student population, mountainous wilderness, and high-earning locals have created a very attractive and liveable Australian city. With a kicking nightlife, a cheeky sex scene and a balmy Mediterranean climate, it’s not surprising the locals have developed such a sense of carefree fun.
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Politicians and sex come together very nicely in Canberra, as this governing state warmly embraces the sex and porn industry to throbbing effect. Known as the “porn centre of Oz”, it is the only place in Australia where Xrated videos can be filmed or distributed via mail order to the rest of the country. The Canberra Love Bus is a simple way to explore the naughty side to state-capital life.
why not take a plunge into the big bath of culture that is the National Museum of Australia? What’s more, for the less affluent traveller (i.e. anyone who isn’t relying on daddy’s credit card at all times to make sure they don’t die), admission is free. All in all, it’s an ideal way to idle away a few hours when you’ve got time to kill, with an amazing design, plenty of exhibits, galleries and more!
If you feel a burning need to clean up your act after a dip into Canberra’s more saucy side,
Other landmarks of Australia’s capital include the amazingly designed Parliament House,
Parliament House home to the Australian parliament, where debates regularly rage about just how many corks should be on those funny hats and whether Neighbours leaving the BBC really is a sign of the coming apocalypse.
Canberra
The unique combination of red-volcanic, limestone soils and a warm climate has created some damn drinkable wines. For dramatic views of rolling vineyards, take a hot-air balloon flight and drop into one of the area’s 22 boutique wineries. Just 40 minutes from Canberra, you’ll find Tibinbilla Nature Reserve, which is rich in Aboriginal art and prehistoric rock shelters. The park has the highest density of indigenous artefacts found in the ACT. The Birringai Time Trail takes you to the oldest Aboriginal site, dating back to 21,000 years. Add to that a landscape filled with kangaroos, wallabies, emus and cuddly koalas, it’s worth camping-down to explore this beautiful Western Mountain reserve.
Feel the need to get out of the city? The Canberra ‘burbs are ideal for exercise buffs. Canoeists, waterskiers and swimmers dot the tranquil Lake Burley Griffin, and Lake Tuggeranong in the Tuggeranong Valley. But, if you’re more of a pole-hiker, then Canberra Nature Park has an easy-to-navigate network of trails, such as the fertile Black Mountain and Mt. Ainslie which offer stunning 360degree views of the city. Balloons over Canberra To really witness the sublime beauty of the Outback, away from those pesky tourists, a horse-riding expedition is a worthy adventure. The National Equestrian Centre organise day and overnight excursions through incredible gum-wooded grassland. Just watch out for those kangaroos hopping by. If the promise of a chilled glass of Pinot Gris and smooth Shiraz gets your taste-buds jumping, then the handcrafted wines of Mount Majura Vineyards are a vino’s dream.
Finally, for a unique, ‘touching experience’ meet Australia’s friendliest predators at the National Aquarium & Wildlife Park. It boldly holds the largest collection of ‘big cats’ in Oz and the biggest inland Aquarium. Hand-feed tigers and enjoy bears licking honey from your hands, or pat a feline’s head on a ‘Meet-aCheetah’ encounter. For something a little different, scuba-walk with stingrays and sharks in a huge underwater fish bowl. Just make sure you don’t lose a limb or two. Canberra and Region Visitors Centre 330 Northbourne Avenue, Dickson Oz freephone: 1300 554 114 e: crvc@act.gov.au w: www.visitcanberra.com.au Opening Hours: Mon - Fri: 9am to 5pm Sat, Sun and Public Holidays: 9am to 4pm
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Accommodation Canberra Centre Canberra YHA 7 Akuna St t: +61 (0) 2 6248 9155 e: canberracity@yha.com.au w: www.yha.com.au From AU$32 pp/pn. Newly-designed: indoor pool, spa, sauna, rooftop BBQ, shuttle bus, Internet, and disabled facilities. Dickson Backpackers 4-14 Wolley St, Dickson t: +61 (0) 2 6262 9922 w: www.dicksonbackpackers.com.au From AU$35 pp/pn. Well-managed, with air conditioning, bicycle and towel hire, and laundry.
Canberra from the air Northbourne Lodge 522 Northbourne Avenue, Downer t: +61 (0) 2 6257 2599 w: www.northbournelodge.com.au From AU$90 pp/pn. 3 star, all amenities. They offer a convenient location, personalised service, breakfast cooked to order, central heating and cooling, off-street parking, and much more! Victor Lodge Bed & Breakfast 29 Dawes St, Kingston t: +61 (0) 2 6295 7777 e: contact@victorlodge.com.au w: www.victorlodge.com.au From AU$50 pp/pn. A centrally located, family run B&B (with a big brekky) with Internet and bike hire. Canberra Surrounds
Canberra bridge Fenner Hall 210 Northbourne Ave, Braddon t: +61 (0) 2 6279 9000 e: admissions.fenner@anu.edu.au Halls of residence that operates as a hostel out of university times: November to late February. Laundry, kitchen, Internet in rooms, bathrooms. Hyatt Hotel Canberra Commonwealth Ave, Yarralumla t: +61 (0) 2 6270 1234 e: canberra.park@hyatt.com w: www.canberra.park.hyatt.com Only for the more well-off traveller wanting a treat, the Hyatt is the capital’s best hotel, close to all the city’s main attractions. Includes all the amenities you’d expect. 102
Canberra Motor Village 2 Kunzea St, O’Connor, Campsite t: +61 (0) 2 6247 5466 e: reservation@canberravillage.com.au w: www.canberravillage.com.au Just 6km northwest of Civic, amenities galore, motel rooms and self-contained cabins as well as powered sites. Perfect for group travel or caravanning. Eaglehawk Holiday Park 1246 Federal Highway, Sutton t: +61 (0) 2 6241 6411 e: info@eaglehawkpark.com.au w: www.eaglehawkpark.com.au Almost 12km north of Civic. Friendly complex, sheltered camping, meals, pub and all the usual amenities including powered sites. A range of prices, although the accommodation is more suited for groups or if you have your own van.
Out & About Pubs & Bars
Adecco Canberra 2/3 Sydney Avenue, Griffith t: +61 (0) 2 6126 4200 w: www.adecco.com.au Primarily office-based positions from this recruitment agency.
The Lighthouse 80 Emu Bank, Belconnen This big party venue sits on the edge of Lake Ginninderra. Relax in the garden by day, and kick your shoes off by night to ride the bucking bronco and dance ‘til twilight. Sunday sessions rock out!
Canberra
Employment Agencies
Trinity Bar 28 Challis St, Dickson Beer is pulled from ceiling-hung taps, the talent is as tasty as their chocolate martini, and the live music and DJs are superb; could this be man heaven?
Parliament House at night Hays Recruitment 5/54 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra t: +61 (0) 2 6257 3331 e: cc.canberra@hays.com.au w: www.hays.com.au Nationwide recruitment agency dealing in almost all industries, from accounting to trades.
Wig & Pen Alinga St Beer fanatics flock to this friendly microbrewery. Award-winning English ales and beers flow. The Bulldog Best Bitter slips down a treat.
Kelly Services 7 Mort St, Canberra t: +61 (0) 2 6209 1060 e: canberra@kellyservices.com w: www.kellyservices.com.au Temporary, contract and permanent positions in a range of occupations. Hudson Level 6, 54 Marcus Clarke St Canberra City t: +61 (0) 2 6229 1555 w: au.hudson.com Nationwide recruitment agency with specialisms in most industries including office work, IT, sales and retail, and manufacturing and production. For more employment information and resources, as well as a number of Australia and backpacker specific job sites, check the Web Directory on page 107.
Hazy Canberra King O'Malley Irish Pub 131 City Walk Teetoaller Civic O’Malley might have kept Canberra dry, but the irony stings, as his namesake is renowned for its creamy Guinness and cracking Irish party atmosphere. Phoenix 21 East Row, Civic Relaxed, friendly and unpretentious, this local bar has an extensive beer list and chilled Guinness on-tap. 103
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Clubs Club Mombasa 128 Bunda St, Civic Energetic dancers twirl to Latin, reggae and African beats in this friendly tropical-style club. Expect irresistible sounds and delectable cocktails. ICBM 50 Northbourne Av, Civic Semi-commercial dance music, trance, vocal trance, hard house, house and breaks. Either way, the music is for moving. Restaurants & Cafés Koko Black Canberra Centre One of Canberra's best and busiest cafés that almost certainly has nothing to do with the fact that Koko Black’s speciality is aromatic coffee and chocolate. You can diet when you get home. Tasuke Sydney Building, 122 Alinga St Cute Tasuke is famed for its sashimi platters and tiger prawn legs. Top it off with a big, cherry-topped milkshake. BYO! Café Essen Shop 5, 6 Garema Arcade Homely and relaxed, chill with friends and awaken with a Mt. St. Helene coffee and Full Monty breakfast. Come evening, BYO! Silo Bakery 36 Giles St, Kingston Fresh pastries and breads, a gourmet cheese room, top wines and award-winning dishes, Essen is a food-lover's slice of delicious gourmet heaven.
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Hurrah for sparkly flares! Hello Café 14 Blamey Place, Campbell Drop in and say 'hello' in this bright and very tummy-pleasing eatery. Take away their golden pancakes or stay to drink coffee out of red polka-dotted cups. Dickson Asian Noodle House 29 Woolley St Serves up fast, filling South-East Asian meals at any time of the day or night. It is fantastic food for some ridiculous prices. BYO wine and chow-down on their tasty laksa. God’s Café & Bar Arts Centre 16 ANU Arts Centre, University Ave Offering a delicious and diverse dining menu, this neighbouring university café is the perfect pit-stop for chilling with friends over a plate of 'God's Nachos'. Coffee Ruckus 65 Northbourne Avenue A reputation as one of the capital's best isn't exactly undeserved with fresh ingredients in everything they make and great prices to make everything taste that little bit better. Kingsland Vegetarian Restaurant Dickson Plaza, 28 Challis St Plenty of vegetarian restaurants will go deathly silent should you ask for anything that might have had parents, the Kingsland Vegetarian Restaurant however welcomes carnivores with open arms and convinces them to skip meat for a meal with delicious, fresh and morally comfortable cuisine.
creatures, where you can hand-feed the emus and kangaroos or pet a koala.
Canberra Explorer Tour Bus 26 Coningham St, Gowrie t: +61 (0) 418 455 099 w: www.canberradaytours.com.au Hop on and off the city’s red open-top buses and you’ll see the best of Canberra city. Perfect for chillin’ and catching a few rays after a boozy night out.
Canberra
Must-Do Activities
Kambah Pool Reserve Kambah Pool Rd, Kambah t: +61 (0) 2 6205 0044 Grab your bathers to swim in the gin-clear Kambah rock pools. Chuck a few bangers on the barbie and chill-out on Murrumbidgee.
National Museum of Australia
Out on Lake Burley Lake Burley Griffin Boat Hire Acton Ferry Terminal, Barrine Drive, Acton t: +61 (0) 2 6249 6861 e: info@actboathire.com w: www.actboathire.com Kayak, surf-ski, or simply laze on a paddle boat, watching the Captain Cook fountain shoot water 147m into the air. The Love Bus t: +61 (0) 2 6262 9266 Sex will take on many filthy forms as you learn your A-Z of Canberra's brothel etiquette. Highlights of the Love Bus tour include the Club Goldfingers S&M brothel and dirty cowboy fun at the Mustang Ranch Strip Joint. National Aquarium and Zoo Lady Denman Drive, Scrivener Dam, Yarralumla A must for nature lovers. Enjoy the marine life from beneath by walking along the underwater tunnel, and then get up close with some of the best-known Australian
National Museum of Australia Lawson Crescent, Acton Peninsula t: +61 (0) 2 6208 5000 e: information@nma.gov.au w: www.nma.gov.au Featuring three themes: Australian society and history, Aboriginal Australia and the Australian environment, the National Museum of Australia is one of the best places to grab a faceful of Aussie culture, with cool galleries and exhibitions all available to see for free. Parliament House t: +61 (0) 2 6277 5399 e: visitor.services@aph.gov.au w: www.aph.gov.au Parliament might not star on your 'must do' travel list, but it's worth the effort. Its striking design and white structure stretches across the hillside, with a stunning white-marble verandah to boot. Questacon King Edward Terrace, Parkes t: +61 (0) 2 6270 2800 e: info@questacon.edu.au w: www.questacon.edu.au Science nerds, take note, as Questacon (or National Science and Technology Centre) has over 170 interactive exhibits.
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Oz Info
Events & Festivals With an active and energetic attitude to life, the Aussies always have a festival going on somewhere, be it based around sports, music, comedy or... well, anything, really. Here are a few of our favourites: Big Day Out January w: www.bigdayout.com Annual countrywide music festival with up to eight stages of live musical acts, from Rage Against the Machine to Carl Cox.
Moomba Waterfest Melbourne March w: www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/moomba Translating as ‘Get together and have fun’ Mooma is an outdoor festival that boasts over 200 crazy-activities, from the world’s best water-skiers to radical rides. WOMAdelaide March w: www.womadelaide.com.au Bliss out to the sounds of the planet, catch up with friends, laze under trees and sway to Oz’s coolest world and roots music fest. Surfest March w: www.surfest.com Bronzed wave-riders bob the Pacific surf while buffed babes strut the beach for this legendary surfing comp. Melbourne International Comedy Festival March/April w: www.comedyfestival.com.au International and homegrown talent all come out at this huge Aussie comedy festival.
A happy Mardi Gras partier Sydney Mardi Gras February/March w: www.mardigras.org.au The world’s biggest gay and lesbian mardi gras kicks off with flamboyance and glitteringly-gorgeous gay style. Flesh flashing is part of the fun! Adelaide Festival February/March w: www.adelaidefestival.com.au Down Under’s answer to the Edinburgh Festival, expect stand-up comedy, alternative theatre and non-stop 24-hour partying. Barossa Vintage Festival April w: www.barossavintagefestival.com.au Wine, wine, glorious world-renowned Australian wine; Barossa celebrates its 56 years with plenty of glass chinking and sumptuous food. 106
Finke Desert 200 km Race June w: www.finkedesertrace.com.au Wheel junkies unite to hoon it past in a racing car, bike or buggy along the riverbed from Alice to Finke. Darwin Beer Can Regatta July w: www.beercanregatta.org.au The beer capital of Oz celebrates its namesake in raw Top Gear style, as people race boats constructed entirely from empty beer cans. December & January Sydney to Hobart Race w: www.rolexsydneyhobart.com Champagne corks go-off on Boxing Day, for the ‘blue-water’ Sydney to Hobart yacht race one of the world’s greatest sailing events. Melbourne Cup Day November w:www.melbournecup.com Whoop those ponies and don a very loud hat for Australia’s much loved horse-racing extravaganza.
Oz Job Directory While a lot of backpackers might find employment through word of mouth or the use of a physical job agency easy enough, there are also loads of good online websites and services to help you in your quest for Australian employment: Farm Work Willing Workers on Organic Farms w: www.wwoof.com.au Operates over 1,000 farms throughout Australia. WWOOF workers live and learn on organic properties, with food and board provided in exchange for half a day’s work. Shearing Contractors Association of Australia w: www.sscaa.org.au/farming-jobsaustralia.htm The SCCA has a handy job page, offering jobs as Woolclassers, shearers and wool handlers.
Seasonal Work Harvest Trail w: www.jobsearch.gov.au/harvesttrail Find seasonal work Australia-wide. Follow the harvest trail picking fruit, veggie-thinning, vine pruning, and with packing positions.
Oz Info
Noosa Jazz Festival August/September w: www.noosajazz.com.au Partying between beautiful beaches and woodland, Noosa celebrates Aussie and international jazz talent in relaxed jazz style.
Wine Industry Jobs w: www.wineindustryjobs.com.au Register on this site for free and keep up-todate. Outback International w: www.obirecruitment.com.au Specialises in agricultural farm work across Australia. Offers casual and permanent work in harvesting cotton and grain, beef cattle, machinery operators and agronomists. Volunteer Work Volunteer Australia w: www.volunteeringaustralia.org Volunteering opportunities in a range of industries across Australia.
General / Miscellaneous Job Search w: www.jobsearch.gov.au Australia Job Search is a Commonwealth government agency with plenty of jobs on offer, included a ‘Harvest Trail’ for backpackers to follow around the country. CareerOne w: www.careerone.com.au CareerOne links to all the big recruitment agencies in Australia.
Seasonal work harvesting fruit
Gumtree w: www.gumtree.com.au Message board website listing everything from seasonal work to full time jobs as well as places to stay, things to see and stuff to do. When in doubt, check Gumtree.
Conservation Volunteers Australia w: www.conservationvolunteers.com.au A not-for-profit organisation where you get directly involved with, and live within, conservation projects.
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Oz Info
Aussie Slang
Dunny: toilet
Australians have a ridiculous amount of slang. Not all of it makes sense and almost none of it is suitable for polite conversation, but here’s a list of just a few examples to get you going!
Fair dinkum: true, genuine
Amber fluid: beer Ankle biter: small child Arvo: afternoon Banana bender: a person from Queensland
Flat out like a lizard drinking: flat out, busy Full: drunk Galah: fool, silly person (named after the bird of the same name because of its antics and the noise it makes) Franger: condom Grinning like a shot fox: very happy, smugly satisfied
Barbie: barbecue (noun) Beaut, beauty: great, fantastic Bathers: swimming costume Billy: teapot (i.e. container for boiling water) Bluey: bluebottle jellyfish Bonzer: great Budgie smugglers: men's bathing costume A four-pack of “grog” Bush oyster: nasal mucus Grog: liquor, beer ("bring your own grog, you bludger") Kangaroos loose in the top paddock: Intellectually inadequate ("he's got kangaroos loose in the top paddock") Liquid laugh: vomit Mongrel: despicable person Pommy bastard: an Englishman Rack off: push off! get lost! get out of here! See also: "rack off hairy legs!" “Bush telly” Bush telly: campfire
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Root rat: somebody who is constantly looking for sex
Bastard: term of endearment
Shark biscuit: somebody new to surfing
Chook: a chicken
Spunk: a good looking person (of either sex)
Crack a fat: get an erection
Stubby: a 375ml. beer bottle
Crow eater: a person from the South
Technicolor yawn: vomit
Dag: a funny person, nerd, goof
Thongs: sandles or flip-flops
Daks: trousers
White pointers: topless (female) sunbathers
Drongo: a dope, stupid person
Who opened their lunch?: OK, who farted?
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TWS
TOTAL WEALTH SUPER
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When you work in Australia, your employers are required to pay superannuation contributions for you. A superannuation fund has been set up for you with our partner company, TW Super. You can use this fund to claim your superannuation when you leave Australia. Just follow these three steps to use your fund and get back the money you’re owed!
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On the front of your Platinum Card, you’ll find an 8 digit number. This is your superannuation fund number with TW Super, as well as the number you’ll use to access the Platinum Card website at www.visabureau.com/platinumcard. Your TW Super fund details: Fund Name: TW Super - RSE No R1070743 Fund Contact Details: (t) 1800 117 405 (e) info@twsuper.com.au Fund Postal Address: PO Box 7540 GCMC QLD 4217
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When you start work with any Australian employer, make sure to give them your TW Super fund details above.
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Once you leave Australia, you can claim your superannuation refund. Just email us at superannuation@visabureau.com to finalise the process.