Traveltime Magazine Summer 2010 by Ladies in RACING Magazine

GA 3-10

October – February 2011 YOUR COMPLIMENTARY COPY

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Summer 2010

Cairns There’s so much more at Mission Beach

Western Australia Snorkelling at Rottnest Island From the Publisher

Backpacking & Travelling in Australia

Working, travelling and studying across Australia

New South Wales Sydney: iconic Australia

The Capital – Canberra

Western Australia Perth and the Coral Coast

Northern Territory The Top End & The Red Centre

Queensland Tropical Far North

contents International

Backpacker Directory

Calendar of Events

100

Travel Saver Coupons

103

List of Advertisers

110

Cape Tribulation Daintree & Cairns

Tropical Queensland

Townsville & Magnetic Island

Whitsundays: Out of the blue

Bundaberg, Agnes Water & 1770

South East Queensland

Sunshine Coast, Brisbane & Surrounds, Gold Coast, Coolangatta

Outback & Central Queensland

Northern New South Wales Byron Bay, Clarence Valley, Port Stephens

Greyhound Australia Offices ADELAIDE 111 Franklin Street, Ph (08) 8212 5066 MON-FRI 9.00am-6.00pm SAT 8.00am-12.00noon SUN Closed Published by

Impressions Media Pty Ltd Publisher/Managing Editor . ...... Cathryn Meredith Graphic Designer.........................Graham Hankin Production Manager...................... Dana Korowec Accounts...........................................Jess Green Advertising Sales............................... Lia O’Reilly

Ph: (07) 5564 2055 Fax: (07) 5564 2056 Email: cm@impressionsmedia.com.au production@impressionsmedia.com.au PO Box 1378, Paradise Point Queensland 4216, Australia

ALICE SPRINGS 3/113 Todd Street, Ph (08) 8952 7888 MON-FRI 8.00am-6.00pm SAT 8.00am-12.00noon SUN Closed BRISBANE Transit Centre, Level 3, Roma Street Ph (07) 3236 3035 7 DAYS 6.00am-6.45pm CAIRNS Shop 4, 1 Spence Street, Reef Fleet Terminal Cairns Ph (07) 4051 5899 MON-FRI 8.30am-5.30pm SAT-SUN 8.30am-3.00pm CANBERRA Jolimont Centre, Shop G14 Northbourne Ave Ph (02) 6211 8545 MON-SUN 7.00am-6.00pm DARWIN 67-69 Mitchell Street, Ph (08) 8981 8700 MON-FRI 6.00am-1.15pm SAT 6.00am-11.00am SUN Closed

Queensland Australia Zoo turns 40! MELBOURNE Southern Cross Coach Terminal Spencer Street, Ph (03) 9642 8562 MON-FRI 8.00am-8.30pm SAT 8.30am-12.30pm SUN 4.30pm-8.30pm PERTH TICKET OFFICE Shop 9 Upper Level 516 Wellington Street, Ph (08) 9481 7066 MON-FRI 9.00am-5.00pm SAT-SUN Closed PERTH Ground Floor East Perth Terminal Public Transport Centre, West Parade Check in with driver upon arrival ROCKHAMPTON Mobil Coach Terminal, 91 George Street Ph (07) 4920 3900 MON-FRI 8.30am-5.30pm MOUNT ISA 17-19 Marian Street Ph (07) 4749 0371 MON-FRI 6.15am-10.00am & 2.00pm-5.00pm SAT 8.00am to 12.00pm SURFERS PARADISE Surfers Paradise Bus Station

Beach Road, Ph (07) 5531 6677 MON-FRI 7.00am-6.00pm SAT-SUN 8.00am-5.30pm SYDNEY Shop 4-7, Central Station, Eddy Ave Ph (02) 9212 1500 7 DAYS 7.30am-6.30pm TOOWOOMBA 28-30 Neil Street, Ph (07) 4690 9868 MON-FRI 5.30am-6.00pm SAT-SUN 7.30am-6.00pm TOWNSVILLE Sunferries Terminal, The Breakwater, Sir Leslie Thiess Drive, Ph (07) 4772 5100 SUN-FRI 6.00am-7.30pm SAT 6.00am-4.00pm

National Reservations Hotline

13 14 99 CALL CENTRE HOURS: Monday to Friday 8am to 6pm (7am to 6pm during daylight saving) Saturday 9am to 5pm Sunday 9am to 3pm

TRAVELtime Magazine can not ensure that the advertisements appearing in this magazine comply absolutely with the Trade Practices Act and other consumer legislation. It is the responsibility of the advertiser and/or supplier of the materials and copy to ensure compliance with all legal requirements. TRAVELtime Magazine reserves the right to refuse an advertisement without attributing any reason for such refusal. TRAVELtime Magazine does not accept responsibility for incorrect information appearing in such advertisements. All original material as to text and/or photography remains the property of TRAVELtime Magazine. Contributions, including the contributor’s name and address, are welcomed by this magazine and should be addressed to the Editor, TRAVELtime Magazine, PO Box 1378, Paradise Point, Qld 4216. All manuscripts, photographs and illustrations must be accompanied by a self-addressed return envelope with sufficient postage stamps (including registered certified mail if required). TRAVELtime Magazine does not accept responsibility for lost or damaged material. Allow several weeks for notification.

Summer 2010 1

SAFETY ON BOARD Passenger safety is of paramount importance to Greyhound Australia. Please take the time to read this carefully, so your trip is as pleasant and SAFE AS POSSIBLE

IMPORTANT SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS

AIR-CONDITIONING

• •

If you are not comfortable with the temperature inside the coach, please speak to your coach captain. On most coaches individual vents are located in the control panel above your head. (To maintain a balanced air circulation, we kindly ask that you do not turn the vent off completely. Please face the vent in an alternate direction).

• • •

Appropriate clothing and footwear should be worn. When coach is in motion, please remain seated with your seat belt fastened (where fitted). Before disembarking, please place your seat in the upright position – this is also for other passengers’ comfort. Heavy hand luggage and other such items should be placed under your seat and not stored in overhead luggage compartment. Please note the overhead hatch and hatch emergency exits positioned at various areas within your coach – these are clearly identified and labelled EXIT.

EACH GREYHOUND COACH IS PROPERLY EQUIPPED WITH: FIRE EXTINGUISHER In the event of a fire, a fire extinguisher is available at the front of all coaches.

READING LAMPS Individual reading lamps are controlled by the unit overhead. Please don’t hesitate to ask if you require assistance from your coach captain.

TELEPHONES Pay telephones are available at most meal stops around Australia.

TOILETS

FIRST AID KIT For your safety, a first-aid kit is stored in a compartment at the front of the coach.

Toilets are located at the rear of the vehicle, and are also available at regular meal stops.

SMOKING

EMERGENCY BRAKING SYSTEM Each coach is fitted with a triple braking system; • Full air brakes • Emergency spring brakes • Engine brakes – work in harmony to ensure maximum passenger safety

IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY • • • •

Please remain calm Follow your coach captain’s instructions – he/she is trained to assist you If the main entry door is inoperable, exit the coach through the most accessible exit Assemble outside the coach and await further instructions from your coach captain

By federal law, smoking is not permitted onboard or in toilets installed on our coaches across Australia.

ALCOHOL AND DRUGS It is strictly prohibited to consume alcohol and/or use drugs whilst onboard our coaches or in our Terminals. Your coach captain or terminal staff may refuse to serve or carry any person who is under the influence of these types of substances.

VIOLENCE Violent or aggressive behaviour will not be tolerated under any circumstances.

greyhound.com.au YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT 2

Summer 2010

HAVE YOU SEEN AUSTRALIA YET?

From the Publisher

Travelling? There’s a broad range of travelrelated services on offer at Australia Post.

Welcome to the Summer 2010 issue of TRAVELtime, the official magazine for Greyhound Australia, Australia’s most preferred and trusted coach company.

Australia Post is a traveller’s best friend with a wide range of travel products and services in over 3,200 outlets nationwide. With 23 commission-free currencies available, including Aussie Dollars, commission-free American Express Travellers Cheques and Travelex Cash Passport services, Australia Post can help you on your way. Keeping in touch is easy with our wide variety of international calling cards and travelSIM, a mobile service for international travellers. We also sell a range of mobile phones and accessories to keep you connected. Need to lighten the load? Send your parcels home with Australia Post. We’ve got you covered with Express Courier International, Express Post International, standard Air Mail or send your items via Click and Send, our online service for international deliveries. Whatever your travel needs, Australia Post is here to help. After all, that is what makes us part of everyday, no matter which part of the world you end up visiting.

It is summer in Australia and what better time to enjoy all the thrills, beauty and wonder this wonderful country has to offer. From top to bottom you can do it all – from skydiving at dizzying heights to scuba diving the depths of the Great Barrier Reef and everything in between – there is something for everyone. And if you want to work or study while on holiday in Australia you can contact one of our special migration consultants, or employment agencies and they can answer all your questions. Greyhound coaches operate 365 days a year, to more than 1,100 destinations across Australia. Passengers enjoy the luxury of fully air-conditioned coaches, extra leg room, footrests, large panoramic windows, LCD screens, filtered water and a restroom. Greyhound has been safely taking people around the country for more than 100 years and is now the only national coach company in Australia. Greyhound is a green, flexible and very practical alternative to the airlines and is one of the most environmentally efficient travel operators in Australia. The company has expanded its travel green program by offering passengers the option of reducing the impact of their bus trip by offsetting CO2 emissions. The carbon offset program supports Kyoto-compliant green projects that help reduce carbon dioxide emissions throughout the world. Did you know you are eligible for discounts with Greyhound if you hold any of the following membership cards: • Student Card, Pensioner Card, Seniors Card or Health Card • Backpacker Card (ISIC, YHA, VIP, Gap Year debit card, Nomad, Roam Free, Independent Backpacker gold card, ISE) • RSL members Card or Defcom members • Conservation Volunteers And if you hold an SA Seniors or WA Seniors card you are eliglible for significant discounts on intrastate travel, up to 50%! So when you call the Greyhound Call Centre on 1300GREYHOUND, don’t forget to ask for your discount when you next travel with us. Or if you book online select the fare type relevant to you. Please note that you will be asked to present your membership card prior to boarding our coaches, so don’t forget to bring it with you when you travel. For more information on Greyhound Australia’s deals and passes visit www.greyhound.com.au or call 1300GREYHOUND (1300 473 946). Happy and safe travelling.

Cathryn Meredith TM

Find out more about all our latest Specials and Events, talk with other travellers and watch out for exclusive competitions!!!

Summer 2010 3

AUSTRALIA

1 2

Backpacking & travelling in Australia Photos courtesy Tourism Australia, Tourism Northern Territory, South Australia Tourism Commission

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Summer 2010

1. Seals on Kangaroo Island 2. Aboriginal storytelling 3. Ballooning in the Northern Territory 4. Breaching whales

Unique country … unforgettable experience Backpacking across Australia gives you the chance to get up close and personal with locals, as you hitch a ride, catch a train or head out on foot “Down Under.” You’re probably wondering where Australia gets its trademark name – Down Under? Well, according to the hit song by Men at Work, Australia is the “land down under, where women glow and men plunder”. But it wasn’t the famous pop ode to Oz that provided the nickname. Australia is often referred to as the land “Down Under” because of its geographic location between the Indian and Pacific Oceans, southeast of Asia and south of the Equator. From rainforest to reef The awesome terrain of Australia covers 7.7 million square kilometres, offering enough travel options for years of trekking. Most tourists are probably aware of The Great Barrier Reef, Ayers Rock, the Sydney Opera House and a multitude of kangaroos hopping across the red dirt. But did you know that Australia also has craters, swamps, snow peaks and giant kelp forests? Undoubtedly, the sheer vastness and variety of Australia’s natural beauty is its greatest attraction. The landscape ranges from sandy white foreshores to dense tropical rainforest and rocky deserts. With so many diverse environments, Australia is the only single country to make up a continent. The face of a nation With its vibrant melting pot of cultures, Australian cities blend Europe’s laid-back café lifestyle with a passion for sport and the great outdoors. Immigration in Australia has welcomed people from all walks of life. With immigrants from the UK, Italy, Greece, South Africa, China, Vietnam and more, Australia has a truly cosmopolitan face. The great sporting nation’s cultural diversity is a key part of its national identity. Australia’s first land dwellers, the indigenous Aboriginals, are said to have roamed the big island for some 20,000 years. They carry on a rich tradition of dreamtime, with their stories and art relating to the landscape. According to Aboriginal belief, all life as it is today – human and animal – is part of a vast unchanging network of relationships, which can be traced to the spirit ancestors of the Dreamtime. Animals feature prominently in the legends, which are featured in Australia’s colourful indigenous art.

Gerroa

The chillier weather doesn’t deter people from having friendly beach BBQs, with prawns and sausages thrown on the ‘barbie’, and a few ‘cold ones’ with some new mates. Also in Winter, you have the choice of checking out the awesome snow fields of NSW and VIC. ‘Going to the snow’ is a great way to see a part of Australia that a lot of travellers don’t realise is waiting to be explored. Alternatively, to escape the cold and experience some beautiful coast line and warm sunshine, think about travelling north along the East Coast. Warm weather, whale watching and a plethora of exciting adventures await.

Welcome to Kite Republic! Victoria may have many beautiful attractions, but if you’re coming to visit Melbourne, you’ll have to do as Melbournians do and hit St.Kilda West Beach for a Kiteboarding session! Imagine a hot and sunny day and you being refreshed by those afternoon seabreezes as you discover why Kiteboarding is the fastest growing water sport in the world. Kiteboarding is a fast-paced sport that combines sailing and surfing to create a wonderful feeling of freedom as you glide on the water. The tricks you can perform and the manoeuvres you can master in a short amount of time are countless and amazing! Kite Republic has been St. Kilda’s Kiteboarding school for 10 years and we pride ourselves on being the most passionate, the most fun, and the safest school around! Call us now to book in your lessons and see Melbourne like you’ve never seen it before! Call 0418 583 233 or visit www.kiterepublic.com.au.

Beach, bush & BBQs Winter can be a wonderful time to travel around Australia. To Australian’s, temperatures in the high teens and low twenties and may be ’cold’ but traditional Aussie past times like surfing, BBQs down at the beach, and bushwalking are still carried out. 4

Summer 2010 5

Backpacking in Australia

A Backpacker’s Story Fraser Island ... a little piece of paradise

I think pretty much everyone on the planet knows that Fraser Island is a must-do for backpackers in Australia, so I made sure that I stopped off at Hervey Bay (the main gateway to Fraser Island) on my trip up the East Coast and got myself sorted with a 4WD self drive tour of Fraser Island. Where else in the world can you drive a 4WD vehicle on a world heritage listed paradise sand island, that just so happens to be the largest sand island in the world? Arriving in Hervey Bay was like being on holiday all over again, the beach literally entices you to relax amidst the excitement of the impending Fraser Island experience. With the beach, bars and backpackers, Hervey Bay is as good a place as any to enjoy that relaxed Aussie lifestyle. Although you can do a day tour of Fraser Island, I would seriously recommend an overnight tour – make the most of this paradise! Armed with a 4WD vehicle, like-minded backpackers, camping gear and supplies we were free to explore Fraser Island and the famous places we had heard so much about. 75 mile beach on the island’s east coast is secretly every backpackers favourite. It’s at 75 mile beach that the island’s speed limit changes and you can put your foot down and feel the wind in your hair, although there is the risk of ending up with Bridget Jones hair. It’s great fun anyways. To get some panoramic views of Fraser Island and some arty photographs we walked way up to Indian Head for views of the island, ocean, the coloured sand cliffs and The Maheno ship wreck. The best part about Indian Head is that after working your legs making it to the top you are rewarded with the bubbling champagne pools to sit and relax in and enjoy the surroundings. Lake MacKenzie was our ‘lunch spot’. Lake MacKenzie is popular for its ‘wow, I am in paradise’ factor. The freshwater lake is the epitome of what ‘crystal clear’ stands for and the white sand surrounding it makes for the perfect lunch stop followed by a mustdo swim in the lake. Fraser Island can’t really be talked about without mentioning the dingos. Pretty much this is the only chance you will have of seeing dingos in the wild in Australia but you will also see wallabies, possums, turtles and flying foxes as well as all those birds. Whales, dolphins, sea snakes and tiger sharks can all be found off the coast in the ocean waters but it is advisable to do your swimming in the lakes rather than the ocean. My favourite part of Fraser Island was Eli Creek, the boardwalk was great for spotting wildlife but jumping in to the creek and gently floating down stream was a real top moment for me. Floating in a clear water creek with eels isn’t something you do often! In my opinion the best way to tour Fraser Island is to spend 2-3 days camping on the beach, exploring the lakes, even try some fishing, and of course self driving round in your 4WD. Your backpacking experience isn’t complete without experiencing sunset on the beach on Fraser Island. 6

Summer 2010

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Nomads Mad Card and Guide If you think you’re cheap, we’re even cheaper! And to prove it, we give you the best discounts in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji on Nomads hostel accommodation, travel, adventure tours, Internet access, phoning home to mum and best of all, eating, drinking, playing and partying.

Just MAD deals! • Over $1,200 worth of Mad food, drink, club entry, pub crawl and boat parties • Hundreds of discounts on travel • Discounts at over 30 Nomads hostels in Australia, New Zealand and Fiji

Nomads Bedhopper Why not exchange some of your Greyhound Kilometres for a Nomads Bedhopper pass – open-dated accommodation vouchers that you can use in all our locations. Plus you get the Mad Card and Guide, including $1,200 worth of party vouchers!

5 Nights Kilometre exchange

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10 Nights Kilometre exchange

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408 The Esplanade, Torquay, Hervey Bay Phone: +61 7 4125 3601 bookings@nomadsherveybay.com

BYRON BAY • AUSTRALIA

44 Noosa Drive. Noosa Heads Phone: +61 7 5447 3355 bookings@nomadsnoosa.com

SYDNEY • AUSTRALIA

412 Pitt St, Sydney P +61 2 9211 4588 bookings@westendbackpackers.com

1 Lawson Lane, Byron Bay P +61 2 6680 7966 bookings@nomadsbyronbay.com

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Summer 2010 7

Aspen Parks . your

Victoria

BeginAdventure today.. Aspen Darwin Kununurra

Cairns

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Wa Perth

Brisbane

Sa Adelaide

Nsw Sydney

Vic Melbourne Murray River Houseboats Hobart

Holiday Destinations Australia Wide 1800 244 133 1800 817 016 1800 679 992 1800 653 611 1800 795 522 1800 621 101 1800 621 101 1800 451 855 1800 459 999 1800 808 999

South Australia Port Augusta - Port Augusta BIG4 Holiday Park Roxby Downs - Myall Grove Holiday Park

1800 833 444 1800 356 103

Queensland Airlie Beach - Island Gateway Holiday Park

1800 466 528

Victoria Albury/Wodonga - Boathaven Holiday Park Geelong - Geelong Riverview Tourist Park Mildura - Golden River Holiday Park Echuca/Moama - Yarraby Holiday Park Melbourne - Ashley Gardens BIG4 Holiday Village

1800 352 982 1800 336 225 1800 621 262 1800 222 052 1800 061 444

New South Wales Echuca/Moama - A Shady River Holiday Park Echuca/Moama - Maiden’s Inn Holiday Park Echuca/Moama - Magic Murray Houseboats Echuca/Moama - Murray River Holiday Park Albury/Wodonga - Wymah Valley Holiday Park Eden - Twofold Bay Beach Resort Forster/Tuncurry - Wallamba River Holiday Park

1800 647 239 1800 356 801 1800 356 483 1800 357 215 1800 776 523 1800 631 006 1800 268 176

Cruising the Murray River is the ultimate way to relax at any time of year. Your floating home is fully equipped, just bring your food and refreshments and suntan lotion, and you’re off on holidays. Explore the Murray River; experience our rich pioneering past at the historic port of Echuca. Enjoy food, wine and country hospitality second to none. Discover a wonderful climate and location that will reward you with a fantastic holiday. Magic Murray Houseboats are easy and safe to operate, there are no special licence requirements and we provide comprehensive operation instructions before you begin your journey. On board there is everything you need to make your holiday comfortable and truly memorable. It’s simply a home away from home. Cruising the Murray River is a unique part of the Murray region’s history. You’ll skipper your own vessel just as the paddle-steamer captains did more than 100 years ago. Check out our ‘Hot Deals’ for fantastic specials and packages. For further information on organising your Magic Murray Aspen Adventure or to make a booking enquiry, please visit www.aspenparks.com.au.

Something for everyone!

Visit our website for great accommodation specials

aspenparks.com.au

Summer 2010

Magic Murray Houseboats located on the majestic Murray River at Echuca/Moama

57472

Pictures: Aspen Parks

Western Australia Fremantle - Woodman Point Holiday Park Fremantle - Coogee Beach Holiday Park Swan Valley - Perth Vineyards Holiday Park Shark Bay - Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort Coral Bay - Ningaloo Reef Resort Exmouth - Exmouth Cape Holiday Park Exmouth - Blue Reef Backpackers Karratha - Pilbara Holiday Park Port Hedland - Cooke Point Holiday Park Kununurra - Kununurra Country Club Resort

Magic Murray Houseboats – Echuca/Moama

day of the year from 9.30am to 6pm (last admission at 5pm), with extended opening hours of 9.30am to 9pm (last admission at 8pm) from 1 to 26 January. www.melbourneaquarium.com.au

Flinders Station Backpackers

Melbourne Aquarium Home to thousands of aquatic animals, Melbourne Aquarium is an entertaining and educational experience featuring four exciting worlds to discover and enjoy. The exhilarating adventure begins with Antarctica, where you can explore a world unlike any other. Marvel as the majestic King and feisty Gentoo penguins play in the pool and slide across the snowcovered ice. Prepare to be surprised as you experience the most Weird & Wonderful marine animals. Enchanting sea horses, mesmerizing sea jellies, spiky lionfish and a whole host of tropical critters will challenge how you believe fish should look and behave. The journey continues through River to Reef, an interactive wonderland featuring the only exhibit with freshwater sharks and sawfish in an aquarium in the world, as well as a stunning collection of tropical marine life and the brand-new Octopus Cove featuring the amazing Giant Pacific Octopus. Sharks Alive completes the unforgettable experience allowing visitors to experience animals from Australia’s oceans including the new and intimidating sandbar whaler sharks, massive stingrays, turtles and hundreds of fish from below, above and even from inside the 2.2 million litre Oceanarium, also offering the extremely popular Shark Dive and new Shark Walker experiences. Those feeling brave can dive in at the deep end and experience the huge adrenaline rush of swimming face-to-face with the sharks in the Oceanarium.

Flinders Station Backpackers is located in the heart of Melbourne’s boutique shops and trendy bars/café district. A short tram ride to the MCG, major football stadiums, Rod Laver arena, and just a few minutes walk from Southbank and the Crown Casino. Sit back and relax with a great beer and lunch on our balcony in The Joint Bar overlooking the vibrant Elizabeth Street and Flinders Lane or meet fellow travellers and enjoy great tunes into the early hours of the morning. No matter what your budget is we have room types to accommodate you, from our standard 4-bed dorms to a private double room with ensuite. All our guests receive FREE daily breakfast, FREE tea and coffee all day, FREE linen and FREE in room luggage storage. We pride ourselves on our value for money, unbeatable facilities and a friendly, fun and safe environment. There really is no better location for your stay in Melbourne. We look forward to your visit!

AUSTRALIA’S MAJOR TOURIST ATTRACTION STARRING AUSTRALIA’S ONLY ANTARCTIC PENGUINS

With daily animal feeds and diver presentations adding to the adventure, the must-see Melbourne Aquarium is an aquatic wonderland with four new exciting worlds to discover and enjoy. Melbourne Aquarium in centrally located on the banks of the Yarra River at the corner of King and Flinders Streets. It is open every

Great Location Great Value Great Fun Sp e c Su m mer

ia l

k $135-/bewd edoer m in a 4 it ions apply *

co n d

FREE Daily Breakfast FREE Airport Transfer FREE Movie Nights FREE Pool $5 Meals Mon-Fri Bar open late every night

Book Online @ www.flindersbackpackers.com

SEE COUPON PAGE FOR DETAILS WINNER QANTAS AUSTRALIAN TOURISM AWARDS 2009 WINNER VICTORIAN TOURISM AWARDS 2009

www.melbourneaquarium.com.au Summer 2010 9

Phillip Island Nature Parks Visit Victoria’s most enticing island, home of the world famous Penguin Parade. Phillip Island Nature Park is renowned as home to one of Australia’s most popular wildlife attractions, the Penguin Parade. A mere 90 minutes drive from Melbourne, the Nature Park covers 1,805

Only 90 minutes drive from Melbourne, experience the magical march of the Little Penguins every sunset at the Penguin Parade. Come face-to-face with Koalas from the treetop boardwalks at the new Koala Conservation Centre. Experience a bygone era and old fashioned fun at Churchill Island Heritage Farm with ‘hands on’ farming activities. Enjoy magnificent coastal scenery and view the southern hemisphere’s largest fur seal colony at the free Nobbies Centre. The 3 Parks Pass is the best way to explore all that Phillip Island Nature Parks has to offer. It includes entry to the Penguin Parade, Koala Conservation Centre and Churchill Island Heritage Farm.

Visit www.penguins.org.au or contact 03 5951 2800 today!

hectares of Phillip Island, Victoria’s wildlife haven. The Park is an island adventure featuring wildlife reserves, wetlands and breathtaking coastlines. Penguin Parade – This experience is sure to be the highlight of your visit to Phillip Island Nature Park. Each night at sunset you’ll be amazed and touched by Little Penguins waddling ashore to their burrows. Australia’s world famous nightly Penguin Parade allows visitors the chance to see this spectacular natural phenomenon from close range via viewing stands and boardwalks. Experience this magical procession – it is a treat never to be forgotten. Koala Conservation Centre – Come ‘face-to-face’ with koalas in their natural habitat from the tree top boardwalks, in the close viewing area, as you learn about these magnificent creatures. This area of natural bushland provides exceptional koala viewing whilst promoting koala conservation on Phillip Island, an attraction not to be missed. Churchill Island Heritage Farm – Experience a piece of Victoria’s heritage on this tiny historic island of 57 hectares, where you can enjoy a relaxing stroll through the fragrant cottage gardens and lawns, coastline walks offering magnificent views of Phillip Island and Western Port Bay and a restored homestead and cottages provide a glimpse into the past lives of early Australian settlers. An historic working farm with Clydesdales, Highland cattle and vintage machinery entertains people of all ages and not to mention daily farming activities from 1pm. Ensure your group explores the wonders of Phillip Island Nature Parks during their visit to this truly beautiful part of Victoria. For information and bookings contact visit www.penguins.org.au.

Goin South Tours NEW – 4 Day Melbourne to Adelaide. See three iconic Australian destinations: Great Ocean Road, Grampians Mountains and Kangaroo Island; NEW – 1½ Day Great Ocean Road, 3 Day Melbourne to Adelaide, 3 Day Adelaide to Melbourne; NEW – 1 Day Adelaide Hills scenic or 2 Days Wonders of Kangaroo Island Tour A family-operated tour offering the budget-minded traveller real value for money. Our personalized tour will take you along one of the most famous scenic drives in Australia the “Great Ocean Road.” Learn about the history of this rugged limestone coast, the tragic shipwreck at Loch Ard Gorge and the formation of the famous 12 Apostles. Travelling onto the Grampian Mountains the largest National Park in Victoria. Discover Aboriginal culture, abundant wildlife, lookouts with magnificent views, great mountain walks and be inspired by natures beautiful waterfall as it cascades through the mountains. Our new four-day Melbourne to Adelaide tour will save you time and money. It is the only tour to link the Great Ocean Road and the Grampian directly to Kangaroo Island in one continuous tour. Four days, two famous Aussie icons, one awesome tour. Join us for an unforgettable journey. For information or to book, call 1800 009 858 or visit www.goinsouth.com.au.

Get on board the Scania-Higer A30.

1300 SCANIA

Summer 2010

SCA12068

scania.com.au

National Harvest Labour Information Service Want to get out and experience the REAL regional Australia, and earn some money at the same time? Then the Harvest Trail could be for you! A typical day on the Harvest Trail could see you picking fruit and vegetables, packing, pruning and trimming, thinning flowers and bunches and other odd jobs around a farm. Work could include climbing ladders, standing, kneeling or sitting while moving around the crop. The work can be repetitive and tiring; produce is often placed in buckets, tubs or lugs. It can be cut, clipped or picked and placed into a bag strapped to the shoulders. Although the work is not for the weak willed, it can be rewarding. “It’s a pretty scary and daunting experience being in a different country on your own at 21”, wrote Vicki, of her recent visit to Australia. “I just wanted to thank the Call Centre staff (at the National Harvest Labour Information Service) for all their help and direction on finding me a seasonal work vacancy”.

Picture: Natioinal Harvest Labour Information Service

Working, travelling and studying in Australia

To follow a “Harvest Trail” can be a great adventure by yourself, as a couple or with a group of friends. It can be anything you want it to be; from a short haul close to your home base, or a long journey which can take a year to travel and work right around Australia. You can join in wherever you are and whatever the season is, but first and foremost, ask us first before moving on – use the FREECALL 1800 062 332 to be put in touch with our Call Centre staff. Follow these steps and you too will have an experience like Vicki who left these parting words “Thank you NHLIS staff, you are a credit to your team and I will be recommending the company to other friends that come to Australia on Working Holiday Visas”. For further information visit www.harvesttrail.com.au.

Summer 2010 11

Navitas English

The Byron Bay English Language School

If you’re travelling around Australia and feel like improving your English, make sure you visit a Navitas English centre at your next stop. Meet people from around the world and make new friends while you learn at any of our conveniently located centres in Manly, Bondi, Sydney, Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Cairns and Darwin.

The Byron Bay English Language School opened in 1998 to provide English language tuition in a beautiful environment. The school is fully accredited with NEAS and offers General English, Cambridge and IELTS preparation, study tours as well as English PLUS surfing/diving/activities. It is high quality English instruction with small classes and professional teachers. Students develop confidence to use English in daily situations. There’s also a fantastic activities program that includes surfing and diving instruction, BBQs, drink nights, soccer and beach volleyball afternoons. With students coming from many different countries, it’s a great way to make new friends from all over the world. The school motto: “Learn to Live!”

You will be able to find a course that suits your level as our English courses range from elementary to advanced, Cambridge to IELTS exam preparation, and intensive evening classes from 4.30pm – 9pm, in case you need to work during the day. If you don’t know what course would suit you simply come into your nearest centre and speak to an Academic counsellor who will be able to help you. Our teachers are all Cambridge University CELTA (or equivalent) qualified, have at least one university degree and are native speakers – not to mention friendly! We offer new modern premises, fully airconditioned buildings, free Internet and Wi-Fi as well as computer centres in all locations. If you are looking for Diving, Surfing, Dance, Golf or Sailing options while you study, our centres can help you find these. So what are you waiting for? Maximise your travel and English experience at the same time, take advantage of our enrolment fee waiver promotion in the magazine, and come to a Navitas English centre near you. For more information please visit www.navitasenglish.com or contact english@navitas.com.

Call (02) 6680 8253 or visit www.bbels.com.au.

Lifestyle choices, how many do you want?

Kick back and contemplate leading the good life, stretching your legs in the great outdoors. Imagine life without traffic lights and blaring car horns. Enjoy a lifestyle where you have room to move, be yourself and see the stars. Experience Australian rural lifestyles through a voluntary exchange program called Willing Workers on Organic Farms; commonly known as WWOOF. WWOOFers volunteer for 4-6 hours each day in exchange for all meals and accommodation. The great thing about WWOOFing is learning about organic growing, permaculture, biodynamic practices and alternative technologies in energy and building. Being a willing worker, a WWOOFer, is just that. You should be willing and able to work with the host family and to participate in an enthusiastic way. You will be asked to do a variety of chores from general farm chores to vegetable and herb gardening, seed propagation, sowing, planting, weeding, harvesting, composting, watering, pruning, mowing, animal care, tree planting, rainforest regeneration, building mud brick, straw bale and cob building, solar systems, cattle mustering, the list is endless. There is fun ‘stuff’ like designing mosaic pathways, making mandala herb gardens, horse riding, bushwalking, snorkeling, swimming, visiting the local attractions and meeting the local town folk, attending festivals and musical events. For travellers wishing to extend their Working Holiday visa about 600 of the WWOOF Host properties meet the Immigration Departments criteria and are able to sign the appropriate documents. We advise WWOOFers to complete the required amount of work at the beginning of their stay, to ensure that they have choices and they can relax knowing they have met the Departments criteria.

English

The WWOOF program allows you to discover the unique variety of what makes up rural Australia. Discover the REAL Australia. Call 03 5155 0218 or visit www.wwoof.com.au.

english@navitas.com

www.navitasenglish.com

STUDY ENGLISH in BYRON BAY Fully accredited English college Located in town centre General English, Cambridge and IELTS preparation English Plus Surfing / Diving / Activities Accommodation and activities service 5/1 Carlyle Street, Byron Bay NSW 2481 Australia CRICOS Provider No: 02219J P: +61 2 6680 8253 info@bbels.com.au

www.bbels.com.au 12

Summer 2010

Do you want to stay (longer) in Oz? Chances are, if you’re reading this you have some interest in spending more time in Australia. So how do you go about extending your Working Holiday Visa (WHV), Student visa or just spend some more time with your family, friends or partner? WHVs may be extended for a year if you worked for three months in a regional area in specified work such as grape harvesting, mango picking, fishing, pearling, tree farming and felling, mining or construction. A good website to check is www.jobsearch. gov.au/harvesttrail but not all jobs on this website qualify for a second WHV. Remember WHVs will not allow you to work more than six months for one employer. This is a very strict condition and if breached, will usually lead to visa cancellation and a quick trip home! There are however some exceptions to the ‘six month’ rule and you should speak with DIAC, refer to their website or obtain professional advice from a Migration Consultant. Quite often we find employers are willing to sponsor you for a temporary 457 visa or in some cases, nominate you for a Permanent Residency 121 or 856 visa. Although there has been much published in the media recently where it appears this Government does not want migrants, the facts are there are many employers in populated and moreso in regional areas, who need skilled workers. If you are really keen to stay, have qualifications and work experience for an approved occupation, there may be a visa option for you. Back to school? Often we see people who don’t have formal qualifications or the necessary work experience but wish to improve their career opportunities by returning to ‘school’. Student visas are available for you to gain quality education in various institutions around Australia. There is no age limit and no limit to the number of student visas you may have, provided you satisfy the relevant criteria. You may be aware of the many changes implemented by this Government to skilled migration visas. Even so, there are

opportunities for students and subsequent migration if you really want to work in the area you have studied for! You may know people who studied cooking and hairdressing with no intention of working as a cook or hairdresser but saw this as ‘easy’ access for permanent residency. That won’t work! But follow your dream, study towards it and you might find yourself living here! There are also many courses which may not lead to residency but you want to do – you may be able to get a student visa for these too. Remember, your country of citizenship may prevent you from applying for a student visa in Australia! Education institutions will only accept international students if they are permitted to do so. Have you fallen in love? With an increase in international travel we are seeing more ‘international relationships’ than ever before! Have you met your ideal partner and are devastated by the prospect of being separated from them? We have visas for fiancés, de factos, samesex relationships and of course, the married ones. Many partner visas can be applied for while in Australia however the fiancé visa is only an overseas application. There are many rules relating to the evidence DIAC will look for to verify a relationship, and rules relating to how long your relationship must have continued. So be careful, you may waste your money if your application is not successful. However, unsuccessful applications lodged in Australia should have a right of appeal to the Migration Review Tribunal. The most important tip to ensure you follow the right option is to seek advice from someone experienced and specialised in migration law. Use a Migration Consultant who is registered with OMARA and a Member of the Migration Institute of Australia (MIA). With 17 years experience I can tell you … laws change all the time! Sharon Harris LL.B MARN 9501060 is National President of MIA and President of QLD and NT chapters and is Principal of Sharon Harris & Associates, Australian Migration Specialists

Thinking of migrating to Oz? We’d love to have you! But don’t listen to the constant gossip on Migration – the requirements are complicated and ever changing! Let us give you the facts and advise you on migrating if you would like to stay on and live in this great country. There are over 100 Visas – but only 3 main areas … SKILLED EMPLOYMENT Australia needs skilled workers and gives priority to skilled persons with work experience. Age, English and other requirements apply.

FAMILY MIGRATION If you already have close family or partner here you may be eligible for migration if they can sponsor you.

BUSINESS MIGRATION This area encourages established business persons to come to Oz and carry on a business. Strict additional regulations apply to these applications.

Sharon Harris LL.B, MMIA MARN 9501060 Over 17 years experience.

Australian migration laws apply nationally so our service to you is Australia-wide. Call us for an appointment or advice – or email advisor2@migration-australia.com Sharon Harris & Associates LVL 5-33 Elkhorn Ave, Surfers Paradise, Qld 4217 Australia (Overseas Dial +617 5504 6111) or in Oz (07) 5504 6111 Summer 2010 13

Personal Locator Beacons

More than just gadgets Carrying a registered 406 MHz distress beacon allows you to get help no matter where you are, when all other forms of communication have failed. More and more smart and safety conscious explorers and tourers are opting to carry a personal locator beacon (PLB) for a number of reasons. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority, is home to Rescue Coordination Centre Australia (RCC Australia) located in Canberra. The Authority is also responsible for the registration of distress beacons, whether Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRBs) or Personal Locator Beacons (PLBs). Lessons learnt from debriefing of incidents around Australia have provided some essential tips regarding beacons. First of all, having a registered PLB activate, indicates to the RCC that not only is there someone in distress but provides vital information. Correctly registered beacons provide critical information to RCC Australia. The more information, such as your vehicle description and trip intentions and the more up-to-date the details are, the faster the most appropriate response can be dispatched. Secondly: always brief your passengers, on the location and operation of your PLB – you may find that you’re not in a position to be able to activate the beacon post-crash. The sooner that the alert can be raised, the faster help can be on its way. Accidental Activations do happen – PLBs, whilst designed to withstand some bumps and thumps may be accidentally activated, and a heavier than usual aircraft landing may cause an emergency locator transmitter (ELT) to activate. If your beacon is inadvertently activated, the most important thing to do is to switch off the beacon and notify RCC Australia as soon as possible by calling 1800 641 792 to ensure a search and rescue operation is not commenced. There is no penalty for inadvertent activations. Buying a PLB – it’s a fact that PLBs do come with a significant price tag however, they are good value if they save your life. There are some potential traps that a prospective purchaser needs to be aware of. Buying a Beacon on eBay may seem an easy and cheaper solution however, beware of the fact that overseas beacons will not have an Australian HEX ID (the unique identifier for your beacon) and therefore cannot be registered in Australia. Also – consider purchasing a GPS equipped beacon. GPS beacons provide position information to rescue authorities within minutes, allowing a response to be coordinated faster. Finally – what about other alerting devices on the market? Tracking devices such as the SPOT Satellite Messenger are marketed as having a distress feature and may be attractive options to some tourers. As these devices are not part of Cospas-Sarsat, the global satellite system that relays signals from Distress beacons to the Rescue Coordination Centre, there is a high potential for delays in recognising that an emergency situation exists. Whilst SPOT is useful for providing information to your organisation or family as to your whereabouts, it is not a replacement for a Cospas-Sarsat approved PLB in a distress situation. For more information regarding distress beacons, or to register your details, please visit www.amsa.gov.au/beacons. 14

Summer 2010

Summer 2010â&#x20AC;&#x192; 15

N e w s o ut h w al e s

Sydney

1 2

Photos courtesy of Tourism New South Wales, Hamilton Lund (Tourism NSW), Jason Busch, James Pipino (Tourism NSW), Joe Shemesh (Tourism Australia), 0Australian Opal Cutters

Summer 2010

1. Vivid Sydney Festival 2009 2. The Queen Mary 2 in Sydney Harbour 3. Luna Park, Sydney 4. Café Gusto at Fiveways in Paddington 5. Australian Opals are considered the finest in the world

Sydney: iconic Australia

St Albans

Highway 1

Wisemans Ferry

Gosford

Richmond

Sydney, with a population of almost 4.4 million, is a cosmopolitan city surrounded by iconic beaches, world heritage areas, lush hinterland and acclaimed wine regions. Its laid-back outdoor lifestyle and the physical allure of being set around one of the most beautiful harbours in the world, make it one of the most desirable cities to live in – and to visit. The people who live here are friendly, energetic and down-to-earth. Bursting with character, Sydney is a vibrant city catering to all your desires whether you seek exhilaration and exploration or 100% relaxation. Discover Sydney’s unique blend of dining, shopping and recreation options in one of the world’s most attractive city environments. The personality of Sydney’s dining scene is as distinctive as the city itself, reflecting its multi cultural diversity and willingness to embrace new things. Find a fresh approach to flavour combinations at numerous gourmet restaurants, many of which are on the harbour and enjoy outstanding views. While high-end dining experiences are plentiful, cafe society thrives in Sydney’s inner precincts and beaches. Paddington and Balmain have flourishing pub-dining scenes and quality food is also on offer at historic pubs in The Rocks. There is a long standing debate between Melbournians and Sydneysiders as to which city ‘rules’. Sydneysiders have a great argument in favour of their weather, harbour, beaches and laid-back attitude. However to a Melbournian, when it comes to style, culture and sophistication, the city that reigns supreme is in the south. This healthy sibling rivalry may never be resolved as both are equally liveable – as they are both equally loved. And a little out of town … Balmain – One of Sydney’s oldest suburbs, now a vibrant and artistic community. Bondi – One of Sydney’s most eclectic and exciting precincts, and world famous beach. Chinatown and Haymarket – Asian streetlife with a bit of Spanish pizzaz and Paddy’s Markets.

Brooklyn

Dural

Mona Vale

Hornsby Penrith

BROKEN BAY

Windsor

Castle Hill Manly PORT JACKSON

Parramatta

SYDNEY

Liverpool

Highway 1 Campbelltown

PLACES TO GO … • Sydney Opera House • Sydney Harbour Bridge • Royal Botanic Gardens • Taronga Park Zoo

BOTANY BAY

Sutherland

• Fort Denison • Art Gallery of NSW • Sydney Aquarium • Hunter Valley

Darling Harbour – A lively harbourside precinct that throbs with activity day and night. Darlinghurst – Boutiques and bookshops by day, bars and nightclubs by night. Double Bay – Fashion central and the playground of Sydney’s rich and beautiful. Kings Cross and Woolloomooloo – A lively entertainment area that buzzes with nightclubs and bars. Leichhardt – Sydney’s Little Italy, the place to go for all things Italian, from gelato to espresso. Manly – Nestled between the harbour and a surf beach – take the ferry for a quintessential Sydney experience. Mosman and Balmoral – Harbourside suburbs blessed with great cafes, shops and great views Newtown – Colourful, unconventional and gay-friendly with a strong arts culture, great shopping and dining. Northern Beaches and Pittwater Peninsula – with the Pacific Ocean on one side and Pittwater on the other Paddington – Stylish terraces, a great shopping precinct lined with cafés and restaurants and a great craft market.

MyZone – makes travelling easier MyZone is a new fare structure for public transport in the greater Sydney area, which includes all government and private bus services. Starting on Sunday 18 April, MyZone will make travelling on buses easier. For the first time, users of both private and government buses only need one ticket – either a MyBus Single or MyBus TravelTen. If you use more than just buses, then consider the MyMulti tickets. These are multi-mode tickets (called MyMulti1, 2 and 3) which allow unlimited travel on any government or private bus in the greater Sydney area, unlimited travel on any government ferry service (including the Stockton ferry) and unlimited train travel within the relevant MyMulti zone(s).

Explorer hop-on hop-off tourism services and the Airport Line station access fees are not included in the price of any MyZone ticket including MyBus and MyMulti tickets. For more information visit myzone.nsw.gov.au or call 131 500. Summer 2010 17

Pictures: State Transit

Sydney and Bondi Explorer All day, every day, hop-on hop-off sightseeing. The red Sydney Explorer and blue Bondi Explorer offer the most comprehensive hop-on hop-off sightseeing services available. Designed with the tourist in mind, each air-conditioned Explorer bus stops at popular venues, scenic attractions and famous beaches. Hop-on and hop-off as often as you like at any of the 46 Explorer stops and experience Sydney at your leisure. Explorer services have always represented great value for money but they’re even more user-friendly now with the new 24-hour ticket. This means you can purchase a ticket on board any Explorer bus in mid or late afternoon and use it right up until the same time the following day. The Sydney Explorer departs every 20 minutes, travels across the Sydney Harbour Bridge and stops at 27 not to be missed attractions including Mrs Macquarie’s Chair, the Sydney Opera House, Darling Harbour and The Rocks. The Bondi Explorer departs every 30 minutes and takes you along some of Sydney’s most spectacular coastline and beaches, stopping at 19 locations including the famous Bondi Beach. Each round trip can be completed in approximately two hours. Explorer tickets include travel on both the Sydney and Bondi Explorer services enabling you to experience the sights of the city and the beauty of the harbour and beaches. Don’t forget to take advantage of additional ticket inclusions such as free travel on regular Sydney Buses within a designated area and great discounts to Sydney’s attractions. Visitors spending a longer time in Sydney may wish to purchase a SydneyPass ticket which includes the Explorer services plus much more – see advertisement below.

If you are going to Bondi Beach use your Explorer ticket and catch the Route 333 Bondi Bendy. The Bondi Bendy is a prepay only service that provides fast and easy access between Circular Quay and Bondi Beach via Paddington and Bondi Junction. To experience the best of both the Explorer and the Bondi Bendy services, why not try catching the Bondi Explorer to Bronte, take the scenic coastal walk back to Bondi Beach, then catch the Bondi Bendy to complete your day out with some shopping at the fashionable Bondi Junction and Paddington. Alternatively, you may wish to stay longer at Bondi Beach and enjoy the beachside dining or one of the many surf activities on offer. The last Route 333 service departs North Bondi at 11:03pm. There is no need to book Explorer or SydneyPass tickets – just purchase them onboard Explorer buses or from TransitShops (Wynyard, QVB and Circular Quay) or wherever you see a “SydneyPass Sold Here” sign. For more information visit www.sydneypass.info or pick up a brochure from your nearest tourist information centre.

See it all with a The ultimate all inclusive transport and sightseeing ticket

SydneyPass 3,5 and 7 day tickets can be used over an eight-day period. SydneyPass Includes unlimited travel on: Purchase tickets from onboard any Explorer bus. • Sydney Explorer tour bus (27 stops, 20min frequency) • Bondi Explorer tour bus (19 stops, 30min frequency) • Sydney Ferries regular services (access 36 harbour locations)

Regular Ferry Services

See some of Sydney’s most famous sights in air conditioned comfort. Hop on and hop off as often as you like and explore 27 attractions at your leisure. 27 stops, 20 min frequency, 2hr trip.

• Entire Sydney Buses network (over 300 services daily)

• Regular CityRail (CBD) trains + Return Airport Link train transfers the fastest way to and from the airport

www.sydneypass.info 18

Summer 2010

Spend a day seeing 19 of Sydney’s most picturesque harbourside locations and surf beaches. Visit Rushcutters Bay, Vaucluse, Watsons Bay, famous Bondi, Bronte & Coogee beaches. 19 stops, 30 min frequency, 2hr trip.

There are so many harbourside places your SydneyPass can take you, from the famous beachside spot of Manly to spectacular Taronga Zoo, Darling Harbour and historic Parramatta. Catch a sleek RiverCat or traditional Manly Ferry and discover 36 different harbourside locations. All Sydney Ferries services depart from Circular Quay throughout the day. Sydney Ferries operate from wharves 2, 3, 4 and 5, Circular Quay.

Metro Hotels Enjoy the comfort of a Metro Hotels’ ‘home away from home’ Metro Hotels is renowned for providing comfortable and spacious accommodation in major cities and regional centres across Australia. With most of its 13 hotels, serviced apartments and inns independently awarded four star ratings and its rooms attractively priced, the result is a continuous flow of corporate and leisure travellers enjoying the comfort of a Metro ‘home away from home’. Metro Hotels has seven properties in Sydney, including Metro Hotel Sydney Central, Metro Hotel on Pitt, Metro Apartments on Darling Harbour, the Aspire Hotel Sydney, as well as Metro Inns in Edgecliff, Ryde and Miranda.

Tourism New South Wales

In Melbourne the group has the boutique Metro Apartments on Bank Place, while in Queensland there is the Metro Hotel Tower Mill on Wickham Terrace in Brisbane; the Metro Hotel Ispwich International

and the Metro Hotel and Apartments Gladstone. The Metro Hotel on Canning is located in Perth, Western Australia, while the Metro Inn Albany is located in the attractive coastal city of Albany in the south of the State. Most recently, the Group a c q u i re d t h e I p s w i c h Inter national Hotel in Queensland, renaming it the Metro Hotel Ipswich International, and has added management of the Dugong Beach Resort in the Northern Territory to its portfolio. With these becoming the 12th and 13th properties to come into the group, these properties reflect the Group’s dual objectives of being represented in all key Australian cities and to give its clients a consistent experience across all its properties. Guests can book at Metro Hotels properties by calling the toll-free central reservations line on 1800 00 4321. Alternatively bookings can be made online at www.metrohotels.com.au.

Summer 2010 19

Sydney’s Paddy’s Markets™ You haven’t been to market ’til you’ve been to Sydney’s Paddy’s Markets. Every city has its markets. In Sydney it is Sydney’s Paddy’s Markets – the original, largest and best traditional markets offering a true market shopping experience. It is situated in two huge locations – Haymarket and Flemington. With over 800 stalls in each location there is everything from souvenirs to sporting goods, clothes to cosmetics, footwear to fresh fruit and vegetables, hot food to heavy-metal CDs, sheepskins to seafood, plants to pendants, crafts, t-shirts and much, much more. Paddy’s Haymarket is right in the heart of Chinatown at the edge of Darling Harbour. The monorail, Sydney Explorer bus and Sydney light rail all stop right outside the market. Both market sites are within walking distance of city rail stations. Paddy’s Flemington on Friday, Saturday (Fresh Food) and Sunday also has free undercover parking for over 2,000 cars and is located opposite the Homebush Bay Olympic 2000 site. Paddy’s Haymarket is open on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and public holiday Mondays and is in short walking distance of either Central or Town Hall stations. Visit Paddy’s website at www.paddysmarkets.com.au or call the Infoline on 1300 361 589.

ET !! HAYMAPREKN WEDNESDAYS NOW O

WEDNESDAY • THURSDAY • FRIDAY SATURDAY • SUNDAY • PUBLIC HOLIDAY MONDAYS FRIDAY • SATURDAY FRESH FOOD • SUNDAY For opening times, parking & locations 20

Summer 2010

INFOLINE 1300 361 589

www.paddysmarkets.com.au

Picture: Tourism NSW

Sunset over Sydney

Tourism New South Wales

Sydney Opera House Did you know that the World Heritage Listed Sydney Opera House is more widely recognised as a symbol of Australia than the kangaroo? Or that it is one of the busiest performing arts centres in the world, staging over 2500 performances and events annually, and welcoming over seven million visitors each year? Home to some of Australia’s premier performing arts companies such as Sydney Symphony, Opera Australia and the Australian Ballet, Sydney Opera House also presents a diverse range of performances covering contemporary music and dance, theatre, comedy, film, circus, jazz, cabaret and much more. For the ultimate Sydney Opera House experience, Show Plus packages make it easy to create a complete night out with minimal fuss. A new partnership between the global icon and a selection of leading restaurants and hotels, the packages combine dining, accommodation and tour options into a pre-paid package. With a choice of thirteen restaurant partners offering everything from casual to fine dining, and four hotel partners located within walking distance of the House, the packages can be tailored to suit any taste.

YOU SHOULD SEE THE INSIDE!

As well as presenting the very best in performing arts, Sydney Opera House also has a range of unique experiences, such as Opera High Tea. An afternoon of decadence which leaves guests breathless, Opera High Tea features sublime food from Michelin-trained culinary maestro Guillaume Brahimi and live performances by some of the world’s finest opera singers in a beautiful Sydney harbour setting. For the full lowdown on the amazing story of the building, check out The Essential Tour. Featuring previously unseen video footage from the House archives, with narration by Golden Globe winner Rachel Griffiths, The Essential Tour is a celebration of Sydney Opera House’s life as Australia’s premier performing arts centre. In a world-first for a World Heritage Listed site, video sequences are shown at points of interest, using the building as a storytelling canvas. The sequences are delivered in ways which respect the building’s heritage values, using methods such as the projection of video footage directly onto the interior walls to take visitors on a journey celebrating the genius of architect Jørn Utzon. To delve deeper into the inner workings of the House, the Backstage Tour is just the ticket. Fancy following in the footsteps of superstars such as Dame Joan Sutherland and Pavarotti by singing on the stage of the world-famous Concert Hall, or striding into the Opera Theatre orchestra pit before stepping onto the conductor’s podium? The Backstage Tour offers this and much more, conducted by experienced guides who share the secrets of the House and reveal the real-life dramas that happen before the curtain rises. Daily tours of the building are also conducted in Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, French and German languages.

Guided Tours gs to The Essential Tour brin ld’s life the saga behind the wor me Co se. hou ous most fam inside and experience the most magic behind the world’s es. anc form per ary extraordin and Also available in French German. The Backstage Tour: d grants you unprecedente r VIP backstage access. You y ustr ind eal rev guide will hear secrets that you will not te anywhere else. This intima rty hea a h wit es clud tour con m. breakfast in the Green Roo ge gua We also run Asian Lan n rea Ko se, ane Jap in Tours and Mandarin, daily.

Experiences ntOpera High Tea A qui nce, essential Sydney experie and for connoisseurs of cuisine rnoon afte an to ted trea Be culture. opera, live and s of culinary delight of the set amongst the majesty sails. world’s most recognised & era Ask us about our Op planes Sea ney Syd and s Koala experiences.

Packages h some We have partnered up wit els hot e urit favo of Sydney’s our and restaurants to create preand ion dat mo om Acc es. theatre Dining Packag Save up to 30%.

O TO BOOK / MORE INF sk 9250 7250 Visit the Guided Tours De m e.co ous sydneyoperah

To find out more, visit www.sydneyoperahouse.com or call +612 9250 7250. Summer 2010 21

Picture: Captain Cook Cruises

Phone in for the facts on fruit fly

Explore Sydney Harbour like Never Before Did you know you can check to see which fruit and vegetables you can travel with on your mobile phone? The Tri-State Fruit Fly Community Awareness Program, which covers fruit and vegetable growing regions in New South Wales, South Australia and Victoria, offers mobile phone access to their website at www.fruitfly.net. mobi or you can visit the site at www.fruitfly.net.au next time you are online. On the website you will find the full list of host fruit and vegetables for fruit fly. You can’t take these items into the Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone (see map) and you should not take them across state borders. Fines of up to $100,000 now apply under certain circumstances. Why? Because an outbreak of fruit fly in a region that currently does not have this pest has the potential to cost Australian growers more than $100 million dollars each year. If an outbreak occurs, our growers can lose access to overseas markets and here in Australia consumers will also lose out because quality and quantity of our favourite fresh produce can be affected. Any way you look at it, it’s just not worth the risk. Check the website for a handy checklist of which transport routes and destinations are affected by fruit fly restrictions. If you are carrying restricted produce, you can either eat it before crossing into a quarantined area or dispose of it in the roadside bins provided. Protect your fruit and veg – be a fruit fly fighter!

Don’t risk a fine! Travelling this summer? Remember, you cannot enter the Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone with any of these:

• Any stone or pome fruit (eg apricot, peach, apple, pear, quince, crab apple) • Any tropical or temperate fruit (eg avocado, banana, berries, feijoa, fig, guava, grapes, passion fruit, loquat, mango) • Any fruiting vegetable (eg capsicum, chilli, eggplant, tomato, tamarillo) • Any citrus fruit (eg orange, lemon, mandarin, lime, grapefruit, cumquat) The Fruit Fly Exclusion Zone includes areas in NSW, SA and Victoria. You should not take any fruit or vegetables across state borders.

Summer 2010

What easier way to experience the world’s most beautiful harbour and all its popular sights than with Captain Cook Cruises Harbour Express and Zoo Express. The Harbour Express is designed so passengers can hop from one Sydney Harbour famous attraction to another with an all-day ‘hop on hop off’ pass. The cruise features live commentary and visits Circular Quay, Taronga Zoo, Watson’s Bay, Fort Denison, Shark Island, Luna Park and Darling Harbour. The Harbour Express departs every 45 minutes from Jetty 6, Circular Quay and Pier 26, Darling Harbour. Adults are $38 and full time students or seniors $35. An additional National Park fee of $7 applies to Fort Denison and Shark Island. The Zoo Express takes visitors to one of Sydney’s most popular tourist destinations, Taronga Zoo with great savings on individual cruise and entry prices. The Zoo Express ticket includes a return scenic cruise from Darling Harbour or Circular Quay to Taronga Zoo, entry to Taronga Zoo and the Sky Safari cable car. The Zoo Express departs every 45mins from Darling Harbour and Circular Quay. Adults prices are $49.50 and full time students or seniors $42. For further information and bookings, please contact Captain Cook Cruises toll free from Australia on 1800 804 843 or visit www. captaincook.com.au.

NO VEG NO FRUIT NO FINE Fines of up to

$100,000 may apply.

For a full list of restricted produce, visit www.fruitfly.net.au or www.fruitfly.mobi (mobile phones)

Discovery Cruises “Awe-inspiring destinations combined with friendly local knowledge and a whole lot of fun. All you need is a sense of adventure.”

Cruise or Sail Australia & Fiji

Sydney Harbour

Murray River – Sth Aust

Fiji Islands - Sail Safari

Hop On Hop Off Day Pass from $38*pp. Visit The Rocks, Taronga Zoo, Watsons Bay, Fort Denison, Shark Island & Darling Harbour

3-Nights from $699*pp 4-Nights from $935*pp 7-Nights from $1439*pp Cruise the outback river highway

3 Days from $399*pp 4-Days from $529*pp Book a group of 4 and the 4th person sails for free

Captain Cook Cruises offers intimate and personal cruise experiences that allow our guests to discoverthe natural beauty, environmental diversity, culture and history of the spectacular waterways we explore. From the islands of Fiji to the hidden bays of Sydney Harbour to the outback vastness of the Murray River, we draw on four decades of cruising knowledge to create individual travel experiences you will never forget.

See your travel agent or call 1800 804 843 www.captaincook.com.au BOOK ONLINE Valid for sale & travel to 31Mar11 excl special events. Prices are AUD twin share EBS fares & incl GST, VAT & HTT (as at 05Feb10). Prices may be subject to change due to fuel price & currency ﬂuctuations. Limited availability. Valid on new bookings only. Conditions apply. CCC 23114

Pearls OPals Up to 50% off ticketed price by negotiation

The History of Australian Opals The earliest known Opal artefacts were uncovered by famous anthropologist Louis Leaky in a cave in Kenya dating back around 4000BC. Australia has dominated Opal production since the late 1800s and although Opals of differing qualities occur in more than twenty other countries, none quite match the quality of the Australian sedimentary Opal. The name Opal is derived from ancient sources: the Latin “Opalus” and the Greek “Opallios” which both mean ‘to see a colour change’. The Opal has meant many things in ancient history. It is known as the “Noble Opal, “Australia’s National Gemstone” and “the Queen of Gems!” In Roman times Opals were highly sought after as a protective talisman in battle. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries the Opal unfortunately started to become known as the ‘bad luck gemstone”. This was due to a competitor company called De Beers, who in an alleged attempt to discredit Opal may have hired a novelist to write a story about the Queen of Spain who had a run of bad luck after being given an Opal. The story turned out to be a best seller and until this time, Opal (not diamond) was the engagement ring gem of choice. Queen Victoria however did a lot to reverse these false statements, wearing Opals throughout her reign. And because the royals were regarded as the model for fashion, Opals once again became highly sought after. When Australian Opals first appeared in the 1890s, Hungarian mines discredited them as not genuine because they had not seen an Opal with such fire before. By 1932 mines in Eastern Europe ceased production because they simply could not match the quality of Australia Opals. Thus Australia assumed the title of premier Opal producer of the world becoming most famous for its rare and colourful black Opals in Lightning Ridge and fiery white Opals in Coober Pedy. Opal is now the national gemstone of NSW, Australia’s National gemstone and a thriving international industry.

3rd Floor, 295-301 Pitt St, Sydney NSW P: 02 9261 2442 Trading hours: Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-5pm, Closed Sun

www.australianopalcutters.com

YHA L A R T N E C Y E SYDN R PRICE OF 3

For more information regarding this fascinating gem, or to view one of the largest opal collections in the southern hemisphere email jason@australianopalcutters.com or call 02 9261 2442

4 NIGHTS FO

AAA

Sydney sizzles in summer with YHA What do V8 Supercars, maxi yachts, China’s terracotta warriors and The Ashes have in common? They’re all coming to Sydney this season. Add New Year’s Eve celebrations, big name music festivals, endof-year sales, and the return of the audacious Sydney Vivacity, and you’re in for one sizzling summer in the Harbour city.

2009 AUSTRALIAN

Sydney’s award-winning 5-star hostel. See what the fuss is about. From $32. Stay 3 nights, get your 4th night FREE!

Sydney Central YHA Corner Rawson Place & Pitt St, (opposite Central Station), Sydney

Summer 2010

TravelTime Nov 2010

While in town why not spoil yourself by staying in 5-star comfort at the multi-award winning Sydney Central YHA. Ideally located in the heart of the backpacker precinct, opposite Central Railway Station, close to all the buses, and within walking distance of many of Sydney’s top attractions and distractions, this hostel offers incredible bang for your backpacker buck.

T: 02 9218 9000 E: sydcentral@yha.com.au

Facilities include rooftop pool and sauna, balcony with city views, in-house cinema, super-fast internet, WiFi, on-site café/restaurant, licensed travel agency, cool weekly activities, supermarket, games and TV rooms, and the funky underground Scubar, to name just a few. Rooms in this beautiful heritage-listed building range from multishare to private ensuite, with beds starting from a very affordable $32 per person per night. If you’re planning on sticking around for a few days, take advantage of Sydney Central YHA’s special offer: stay three nights and get your fourth night absolutely FREE! Deal valid to 20 December 2010. Go on, see what all the fuss is about. Book online at yha.com.au.

Picture: Australian Opal Cutters

Free Opal & Pearl Lesson

The Capital – Canberra

Capital Executive Apartment Hotel Located two blocks north of the CBD, a ten-minute stroll, our 83‑room hotel is four star rated. Value that impresses … The Capital Executive Apartment Hotel, located just a short stroll from the city centre down Canberra’s most tree-lined boulevard, Northbourne Avenue, is your stylish and comfortable ‘home away from home’. The 59 studio apartments and 24 luxury spa suites, combined with 24-hour under cover security parking, offer the holidaymaker or business traveller four star rated luxury at realistic prices. Features that please … Soak up the classic modern ambience that is our stunning threestorey atrium as you enjoy a pre-dinner drink or a quiet meeting in any of the intimate leather lounge areas.

Discover Your Capital Calthorpes’ House Calthorpes’ House is a window into an almost forgotten world. Built in 1927, this genuine survivor is a treasure house of domestic history. Original furnishings, household appliances and photos reflect the fashionable ideal of style and taste in the middle class Australian home of the late 1920s. A visit to Calthorpes’ House will take you back to the time when Harry and Dell Calthorpe and their two daughters Del and Dawn lived in the house. Enjoy hearing the family Pianola played by one of our friendly guides, explore the house and garden, and then relax with afternoon tea on the front verandah. Calthorpes’ House offers a range of community programs and events, and education programs at selected times throughout the year. Calthorpes’ House 24 Mugga Way, Red Hill ACT 2603 T: (02) 6295 1945. Further enquiries (02) 6235 5677 Admission: $7 Adults, $5 Concession, $15 Family Opening Hours: Saturday and Sunday 1pm – 4pm www.museumsandgalleries.act.gov.au

ACT MUSEUMS + GALLERIES Canberra Museum and Gallery Corner London Circuit and Civic Square Canberra City Tel: 02 6207 3968 Opening Hours: Monday – Friday › 10.00am – 5.00pm Saturday – Sunday › 12 noon – 5.00pm

www.museumsandgalleries.act.gov.au

Capital Executive Apartment Hotel Cuddle ’n’ Bubble Package Accommodation in a luxury ‘One-Bedroom Spa’ suite, champagne and chocolates on arrival, three-course a-la-carte dinner for two in our 1999, 2003, 2004, 2005 and 2007 multi-award winning ‘The Haig Italian Restaurant’ (select anything from our menu) fully-cooked buffet breakfast for two, and late check-out. (C1) $299 per couple per night OTHER GREAT OFFERS KITCHENETTES IN ALL ROOMS: $155 – STUDIO APARTMENTS (CD) Queen bed and single sofa bed. Sleeps 2-3. $179 – ONE BEDROOM FAMILY SPA SUITES (CE4) Queen bed in bedroom and two king single beds in the lounge room. Sleeps 4. $199 – FAMILY ROOMS (CF5) Queen bed, king single bed and bunk bed. Sleeps 5. $199 – ONE BEDROOM FAMILY SPA SUITES (CE5) Queen bed in bedroom, king single bed and bunk bed in the lounge room. Sleeps 5. Ph: (02) 6243 8333 www.ceahotel.com.au

EXHIBITIONS Altered States: Lost, Salvaged & Repurposed Buildings in Canberra 23 October – 27 February 2011 Explore the history of Canberra through buildings which, for a variety of reasons, have been lost, salvaged and repurposed during the last 100 years. While several of Canberra’s well known buildings have been demolished over the years, many others have been saved and some have been redesigned to fulﬁll purposes their builders never dreamed of.

Miss Piggy 13 November – 13 February 2011 A collection of pigs of all shapes and sizes from ﬁgurines to ﬂying pigs. Summer 2010 25

w e st e rn australia

1 2

Western Australia

Photos courtesy Tourism Western Australia,Tourism Australia

26â&#x20AC;&#x192;

Summer 2010

1. Sunset over Perth 2. Hopping Mouse 3. Blowholes north of Carnarvon 4. Snorkelling at Rottnest Island 5. Camping in The Pilbara 6. Shell Beach, Denham

PLACES TO GO …

Perth and the Coral Coast The city of Perth is located alongside the peaceful waters of the Swan River, 20 kilometres inland of the Indian Ocean on the west coast of Australia. The city centre bustles with activity and offers a range of choices for shopping. King Street with its contemporary retail outlets and eateries is a shopper’s delight.

• Shark Bay • Wave Rock • Ningaloo Marine Park • Nambung National Park • Jurien Bay Marine Park • Kalbarri National Park

Exmouth

Just a short ferry ride from Perth or Fremantle is Rottnest Island, a popular holiday destination that offers a very relaxed atmosphere. You may find a quokka or two, the unique little marsupial that the island takes its name from, walking alongside you. If you enjoy nature, then a visit to the Perth hills is a must. It offers rolling hills and valleys of native bushland, wineries and orchards, and is perfect if you enjoy bushwalking and hiking, and nowhere else in Perth will you find such amazing views over the Perth city below.

The Coral Coast Beaches, exotic marine life, national reserves and the bluest ocean you’ll see anywhere in the world, can all be found in Australia’s Coral Coast. This coastline region begins at Cervantes, where you’ll find the unique rock formations of the Pinnacles and stretches as far north as Exmouth, home of the internationally renowned Ningaloo Reef. This amazing area is also great for diving and fishing all year round with a variety of spectacular reefs and marine life, white sandy beaches and warm turquoise waters. The region offers amazing experiences and interactions with a variety of marine life, including meeting the dolphins of Monkey Mia, sea lions, manta rays, dugongs and humpback whales. Australia’s Coral Coast is one of the few places in the world where you can swim with the world’s largest fish – the whale shark. Check out Nature’s Calendar for some suggestions of when to go.

Highway Paraburdoo

Coral Bay

KENNEDY RANGE NATIONAL PARK

Carnarvon SHARK BAY Monkey Mia Denham

Meekatharra

Kalbarri KALBARRI NATIONAL PARK

Perth’s beaches are squeaky clean, white and offer a cosy position from which to view those famous Indian Ocean sunsets that ‘easterners’ can only envy from afar. Perth has developed its own style and sophistication and in spite of its distance from the other major Australian cities, is very cosmopolitan. The port city of Fremantle lies just south of Perth. It is a popular cultural hotspot, with some of the finest sandstone architecture indicative of early settlement in the area. On weekends you will find creative markets, entertainment and an abundance of very colourful alfresco eateries and cafés. The Swan Valley region is steeped in history and as one of WA’s oldest wine regions is home to more that 40 vineyards.

NINGALOO MARINE PARK

Sandstone

Geraldton

Highway Jurien Bay JURIEN BAY MARINE PARK

Bay Lodge – Denham, North-West WA Beachfront International Backpackers and Budget Family Accommodation Bay Lodge offers self-contained family and motel units, smart selfcontained, budget-style bungalows, and YHA bungalow dorms with a kitchen, bathroom and lounge room with TV, video, DVD and free air-conditioning. There is a courtyard pool, large BBQ facility and a Bali hut for you to enjoy outdoor eating, complete with in-house video and Foxtel big screen for live sporting events. A free courtesy bus operates to Monkey Mia for dolphin feeding. Some comments from our guests … “We stayed longer than planned since this is such a wonderful place. Wonderful atmosphere, kind people, no worries at all! Thanks for everything, maybe ’til the next time!” Lia and Carla, the Netherlands. “I would just like to say thank you so much. You have both been such wonderful hosts. Thank you for all of the fun activities like the net fishing, hot tubs and football. If I get a chance to come back I will definitely know where to stay. You both are such nice, genuine people and I appreciate all that you have done for me.” Heidi, Canada. “Cheers! I love this place. You have been the best. I can’t thank you enough – I have had a wicked time.” Damo, Scotland. Free call 1800 812 780 or visit www.baylodge.info. Absolute Beachfront International Backpackers & Family Accommodation DENHAM • MONKEY MIA

Western Australia’s first World Heritage site – Shark Bay, is most famous for its smiling dolphins that come right into shore at Monkey Mia. The more secluded parts of this stunning peninsular are home to other incredible wildlife like manta rays, turtles and dugongs. Locals love Coral Bay – the small seaside settlement at the southern end of the Ningaloo coast. Head here to get away from it all and stay within metres of a beautiful beach and calm waters for safe snorkelling and swimming. The carefully preserved Ningaloo Marine Park is a bewitching marine experience. The untouched coral, amazing range of sea life and excellent visibility make for unforgettable diving and snorkelling.

1 & 2 bedroom bungalows • Doubles, singles, triples & quads Swimming pool • BBQ area • Airconditioning • Internet access Public telephones Freecall 1800 812 780 baylodge@wn.com.au • www.baylodge.info 113 Knight Terrace, Denham, WA 6537 • Ph: 08 9948 1278

FREE

tesy bus to Return cour Resort for Monkey Mia eding Dolphin fe

Summer 2010 27

Two great hostels in the centre of town 1201 East Backpackers and Coolibah Lodge only offer the best in location, facilities, price and fun. 12:01 East Backpackers is a licensed traditional hostel offering friendly and relaxed accommodation at the stylish end of Hay Street in Perth. East Perth train station, Domestic and International Airport are all close by. Coolibah Lodge is a vibrant fun licensed hostel situated in the heart

hostel aditional ckers is a tr modation and a p ck a B 12:01 East ly, relaxed accom h. tion in Pert iend offering fr ings at the best loca h d n rt u e cosy surro 5 Hay Street, East P 1 19 00 120

ll 1800 u Freeca 1201east.com.a . w .au m o ww .c st a e 1 info@120

brant dge is a vi Coolibah Lo ostel catering for ted censed h and fun li young at heart. Loca s d ll it n a a h g it n w u the yo hbridge olitan Nort d nightlife. p o sm co in ts, bars an hbridge restauran Nort ne Street, a sb ri 00 B 194 0 28 00

u ll 180 Freeca olibahlodge.com.a o .c 8 w 5 ww 8 99 T: (08) 932

Voted Best Backpackers in Western Australia 2007 Finalist 2008 & 2009

of Northbridge with all its restaurants, bars and nightlife. The hostel provides old fashioned charm and heaps of atmospheres and also has 24 hour checkin. The well travelled staff will help you to discover the best of Perth and WA with friendly no hassle advice on travel or tour bookings, employment or anything happening in town. There are 4, 6, 8 and 10 bed dormitories, doubles, triples, twins and singles available and all the facilities you would expect in a fvie star hostel. You can choose if you want to stay in a mixed dorm, female or male. All beds have linen, blankets and pillows provided. Your stay at either Coolibah Lodge or 1201 East Backpackers will leave you with happy memories and lifelong friends.

Billabong Backpackers Resort – Perth Awarded four stars by AAA Tourism and winner of the Golden Backpack Award 2007 for Best Hostel WA Winner “Best Hostel 2007”, finalist 2008 and 2009 The Billabong Backpackers Resort is Perth’s newest hostel and is located within walking distance to the CBD, Northbridge and the Mt Lawley café strip. The Billabong offers a safe, clean and spacious hostel to travellers and international students. The great atmosphere, friendly staff and large range of facilities have made the Billabong one of the best hostels around. Some of the facilities include 24‑hour reception, swimming pool, beach volleyball, basketball court, gym, games room, café, tour desk, internet, laundry and in-house activities. The Billabong also organises regular soccer and volleyball games. The rooms range from four-, six- or eight-bed dormitory rooms, to private or family rooms. All come with ensuite, linen, airconditioning and heating, balcony and a phone. Prices start from $25 for dorms and $82 for doubles. Breakfast is included. For more information please call 08 9328 7720 or email info@ billabongresort.com.au. See our advertisement for more details.

• • • • • • • • • • • •

free breakfast free tea & coffee free on-site parking free luggage storage free airport pick up (upon availability) within walking distance of the Perth CBD and Northbridge helpful and friendly staff 24 hour reception desk FoxTel and video rooms table tennis room Internet cafe soccer & volleyball

381 Beaufort Street, PERTH WA 6003 TEL: (08) 9328 7720 FAX: (08) 9328 7721

www.billabongresort.com.au bookings@ billabongresort.com.au

Join Ningaloo Reef Dreaming in Exmouth One of Western Australia’s leading dive operators Whale shark cruises (Mar-Jul) Dive & Snorkel Tours Exmouth Navy Pier - one of the worlds top 10 dive sites Whale Watching Cruises (Aug-Oct) Ningaloo Reef & Muiron Islands Dive Courses Discounts apply to book multiple tours

1800 994 210 www.ningaloodreaming.com

Summer 2010

Ningaloo Reef Dreaming Discover the beauty that is Ningaloo Reef with one of Western Australia’s leading dive operators. Find yourself amongst whale sharks, spectacular coral, colourful fish, graceful manta rays, turtles, humpback whales, dugongs, dolphins and other marine life. Cruise, swim, snorkel or dive … Ningaloo Reef Dreaming is your one-stop-shop in Exmouth. We specialize in whale shark tours and are the only operator to use our own exclusive spotter plane to find these magnificent creatures. Therefore our customers have the opportunity to spend longer in the water with the whale shark. We have exclusive access rights to the world renown Exmouth Navy Pier, one of the world’s top-ten dive sites, so are the only operator permitted to conduct dives here. Our variety of tours are suitable for first time snorkellers to experienced divers. Our friendly and experienced staff and crew will ensure your trip is one to remember. We also have a range of internationally recognized dive certification courses for those wanting to learn to dive or advance their skills. We have proudly achieved Advanced Ecotourism Certification. Our range of modern well equipped vessels are fitted for safety and comfort, whether you are snorkelling on Ningaloo Reef or diving at the Muiron Islands. View the spectacular underwater world of Ningaloo Marine Park, the way it should be: fun, safe, easy and wonderful, whilst operating in a way that respects and protects the natural environment and indigenous heritage. Visit our shop in Maidstone Crescent, Exmouth and speak with our professional staff. For more information call 08 9949 4777 or visit www.ningaloodreaming.com.

Exmouth: Gateway to the Ningaloo Reef

Tourism Western Australia

If you’re looking for a holiday full of wonder with magnificent landscapes, pristine beaches and nature in all its glory, both in the water and on dry land, then look no further than Exmouth, Western Australia. The town was originally established to support the Communications base located at the North West Cape. While the base is still operating at a reduced capacity the town has reinvented itself as the gateway to Ningaloo Reef making it a top tourism destination. Ideally positioned, a holiday in Exmouth offers access to the rugged beauty of the Cape Range National Park contrasted with the aquatic splendour of the world renowned Ningaloo Marine Park. Where else in the world can you snorkel with the majestic giant of the deep – the whale shark – then cruise up rugged gorges to spot native birds and animals as you can at Yardie Creek. Meet the local wild emus that roam the streets of town or view the kangaroos trimming the green grass of the local ovals as the sun sets. Ningaloo Marine Park protects one of Australia’s most important tracts of reef, the Ningaloo Reef. The Reef stretches from Bundegi Beach near Exmouth for 260kms south of Coral Bay along the West. Situated on the west side of the North West Cape is Cape Range National Park a spectacular place of rugged limestone ranges, breathtakingly deep canyons and 50kms of pristine beaches. The Park covers some 50,581 ha and its northern boundary is just 40kms from Exmouth. At Cape Range National Park you can simply don your mask and snorkel out in shallow waters to see the coloured coral and spectacular fish life on the Ningaloo Reef. With over 250 species of coral and over 500 species of fish the Ningaloo Reef is an impressive diving destination year round! See turtles, fish, manta rays, reef sharks and more. If you prefer not to get wet you can see the reef via glass bottom boat, take a scenic flight or try a trial introductory flight in a micro light. Take a cruise up Yardie Creek Gorge to spot native birds and animals or ride a quad bike and have fresh Exmouth prawns for lunch. Spend the day sea kayaking along the Ningaloo Reef or take a safari tour and experience the whole of Exmouth in one day. If you want to catch your own dinner fresh from the sea take a fishing charter. Watch the sunset at the Lighthouse while watching the humpback whales in the Gulf. Exmouth is a truly fantastic place to come and visit where there is plenty for everyone. Exmouth is situated 1,270km north of Perth with a population of 2500 people.

As there is no wet season in Exmouth, it’s dry and warm most of the year. Summer daytime temperatures range from high 30s to mid 40s and winter days range from 17 to 26 degrees. For more information freecall 1800 287 328 or visit the website at www.exmouthwa.com.au.

Wildlife

Emus and Kangaroos all year round. Coral Spawning: March – April Whale Sharks: April – July Manta Rays: May – November Humpback Whales: July – November Turtles: November – February

Exmouth Visitor Centre Gateway to Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park.

For a year-round reef & outback experience, book online at www.exmouthwa.com.au for all your accommodation, tours, car hire, coach & flight travel, souvenirs and local craft Toll Free: 1800 287 328

E: reservations@exmouthwa.com.au

www.exmouthwa.com.au

Lic. 9TA00091

Summer 2010 29

n o rt h e rn t e rrit o r y

Northern Territory

Photos courtesy of Tourism Northern Territory, Tourism Australia

30â&#x20AC;&#x192;

Summer 2010

1. Frontier Camel Farm 2. Henley-on-Todd Regatta 3. Uluru

The Top End & The Red Centre

Melbville Island Bathurst Island

Pirlangimpi Nguiu

DARWIN

Darwin has a relaxed outdoor lifestyle and enjoys warm weather all year round. Perched on a peninsula with sea on three sides, Darwin is an excellent base to explore the natural attractions of world heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, Litchfield and Nitmiluk National Parks, the Tiwi Islands and Arnhem Land. Darwin was founded as Australia’s most northerly harbour port in 1869, and its population rapidly expanded after the discovery of gold at nearby Pine Creek in 1871. World War II put Darwin on the map as a major allied military base for troops fighting the Japanese in the Pacific. Today travellers can see evidence of Darwin’s World War II history at a variety of preserved sites including ammunition bunkers, airstrips and oil tunnels in and around the city. Darwin again made world news when the city was rebuilt in the wake of Cyclone Tracy in 1974 – an event well documented at the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory. Its colourful history is largely due to Darwin’s cultural diversity – more than 50 nationalities make up its population of 100,000. The area’s traditional landowners are the Larrakia Aboriginal people. The cultural and culinary benefits of such a melting pot are best experienced at Darwin’s weekly markets, variety of restaurants and through the annual calendar of festivals and other events. Darwin has had to have a strong will to survive. Today, it’s a thriving city with a relaxed lifestyle and heaps to do. Highlights of Darwin include a relaxing swim in the waterholes of Litchfield National Park and a sunset cruise on the harbour. Visitors can book a tour, get a massage, have their palm read, listen to their Tarot readings, watch the buskers and performing artists, listen to the live bands or just sip a glass of wine on the beach and watch the sunset. Enjoy the atmosphere of a Darwin pub filled with travellers from around the globe. And you can’t help but wonder where else you would rather be than Australia’s most tropical, colourful and entertaining capital city. For more information visit www.travelnt.com.

In the heart of Darwin City..

Home to th e Cage of Death

n i s c o r C y t i C e h t

Oenpelli Jabiru

LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK Batchelor Adelaide River Daly River Peppimenarti

Everyone knows where Darwin is on the map. It’s right at the top of Australia. Perched on the Timor Sea. Closer to Singapore than Perth or Sydney and looking as Asian as Malaysia. A pretty small capital city by all accounts – little more than 100,000 people at the end of the Stuart Highway. Lots of mango trees and rain and lightning during the wet season, don’t you know. But surely there’s so much more to it than that!

COBOURG PENINSULA Murganella COBOURG MARINE PARK

Cooinda

Emerald Springs

KAKADU NATIONAL PARK

NITMILUK NATIONAL PARK (KATHERINE BORGE)

Katherine

Mataranka

Timber Creek

GREGORY NATIONAL PARK

ELSEY NATIONAL PARK

Larrimah Daly Waters Dunmarra

GREGORY NATIONAL PARK

Stuart Highway

PLACES TO GO … • Aboriginal Art & Cultural Centre and the Fine Arts Gallery • Royal Flying Doctor Service Base • Adelaide River War Cemetery • Batchelor Butterfly and Petting Farm • Berry Springs Nature Park • Deckchair Cinema

The Red Centre The heart of Central Australia is comprised of cavernous gorges, boundless desert landscapes and remote Aboriginal communities. Alice Springs – the regional centre – has a pioneering history, established by early explorers. From the early 1900s, the desert of Central Australia was explored for its promise of rubies and gold. Alice is a melting pot of cultures and traditions, a spirited bush town that originally grew from humble beginnings in the 1870s as a lonely repeater station. The 3,200km-long overland telegraph line enabled communication between Australia and Europe. Alice is legendary for its isolated position in the middle of a hugely diverse, sparsely populated island continent and straddled by the rugged East and West MacDonnell Ranges for a length of 223km. It is an oasis that divides the Great Sandy Desert to the south and the Tanami Desert to the north-west. Days can therefore be very hot and the desert nights a little chilly. Alice is has been growing ever since gold was discovered in the late 1880s. Now a source of cultural riches, it is a mecca for indigenous art and storytelling. The streets are lined with galleries and on the outskirts of town you can listen to Aboriginal dreamtime stories and learn about local bush medicine. A visit to the Royal Flying Doctor Service and School of the Air will give you some understanding of the difficulties of outback life that early settlers had to face. Exerience the chasms, gorges and spectacular views of the MacDonnell Ranges – Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), Kings Canyon and Uluru National Parks, and don’t miss the adorable rock wallabies and other native wildlife. Alice Springs is a great starting point for an outback experience and to explore the surrounding attractions of the Central Australian desert.Visit www.centralaustraliantourism.com or contact (08) 8952 5800 for more information.

ROCK THE CENTRE 3 Day Red Centre Backpacker Tour from AU$320 (including national park entry)

Check out Uluru, Kata Tjuta & Kings Canyon & ‘swag’ out under the stars. Quote TRAVELtime when booking to receive free sleeping bag hire.

crocodile Hold a baby

PLUS the World’s largest display of Australian reptiles Fishing for Crocs platform, “barra” feeding and a daily program of activities

58 Mitchell St, Darwin City | Ph: 8981 7522 croccove.com

Call 1300 653 510 | adventuretours.com.au Summer 2010 31

Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise Just a one hour drive from Darwin on the Arnhem highway on the way to Kakadu, numerous Crocodile cruises may operate depending on the time of year. Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise is a favourite of young and old, situated at the ‘Window on the Wetlands’, a wetland interpretive centre, admission Free. Join the friendly crew for a one hour boat cruise where Crocodiles are guaranteed. Crocodiles are incredibly elusive animals and are rarely seen. Here they hear the boats and swim out knowing that they may be fed. Your guide will give you a few tips on what to look out for. Crocodiles naturally jump for their food, we simply demonstrate this ability. To jump up a steep river bank to take an animal, or even to jump up to take a bird roosting in the trees overhanging the river, is a natural hunting ability. It is certainly awesome to see in the wild. The Australian Saltwater Crocodile is very badly named as they are just as likely to be found in freshwater, the cruise operates 90 kilometres inland in pure freshwater! Four cruises operate daily. Drive yourself out or catch the bus.

‘Crocodile Express’ departs Darwin at 1pm returning at 6pm. Not to be missed, this cruise is often described as “The highlight of our stay in the Northern Territory”. Arrive a bit early, the billy is always on for a free tea or coffee. Cruises operate all year round. For more information visit www. jumpingcrocodile.com.au or call 08 8987 9077.

Banyan View Lodge Nestled on the fringe of Darwin’s CBD and energetic nightlife, Banyan View Lodge offers a ‘Home away from home’, eco-friendly backpackers experience. With its relaxing atmosphere and friendly staff, BVL is the ideal place to make your Top End Adventure an enjoyable one. With affordable prices we offer a range of accommodation for all travellers. Dormitory, singles, doubles and twins with private ensuite rooms are available. Due to our ideal location we offer a quiet, clean and safe alternative to other backpackers and budget accommodation establishments.

Spectacular

Jumping Crocodile

Cruise “Crocodile Express” departs Darwin daily at 1pm from the Transit Centre, Mitchell Street, or drive yourself out.

Your chance to see

wild Crocodiles

08 8978 9077 www.jumpingcrocodile.com.au 32

Summer 2010

Facilities include: pool, spa, free internet, kitchens, TV lounges, laundry, parking, kids areas, garden, bus stop and more. Call (08) 8981 8644 or visit www.banyanviewlodge.com.au.

Banyan View Lodge offers budget accommodation for all travellers. Conveniently located just minutes walk from shops, bars, cafés and restaurants. With its relaxing atmosphere and friendly staff, Banyan View Lodge is the ideal place to make the most of your Top End experience. We offer singles, doubles and dorm beds with private or shared bathroom. Facilities include swimming pool, spa, BBQ, garden area, communal kitchen, TV lounges, laundry and FREE Internet!

119 Mitchell Street, Darwin NT 0800 Tel: (08) 8981 8644 Fax: (08) 8981 6104 bvl@ywcaofdarwin.org.au

w w w. b a n y a n v i e w l o d g e . c o m . a u

Chillis Backpackers Boasting the most ideal location in Darwin, Chillis is a backpacker haven surrounded by cheap eats, great bars, travel shops and Aboriginal artefact centres. With a 24-hour check-in, air-conditioned twins, doubles and dorms, spa, sundeck and large kitchen and travel shop, you need look no further for the best backpacker accommodation in Darwin. For more information contact Chillis on (08) 8980 5800, freecall 1800 351 313, fax (08) 8941 9835, email info@chillis.com.au or check out our website at www.chillis.com.au. Upon check-in present voucher for one hour’s free Internet.

Darwin Military Museum Australia’s Top End, and in particular Darwin, was the forefront of combat operations against the country in WWII. More than 64 air raids were endured, and hundreds of people killed. Darwin’s Military Museum charts the many stories of the war, and military operations before and beyond. This small but growing museum features: • a 15 minute film of the first raids on 19 February 1942; • armoured vehicles, engines and other machines of war; • a range of artillery pieces; • scores of photographs detailing the actions; and • an extensive collection of military firearms.

Darwin

vehicles, artillery pieces, firearms, photographs, uniforms and more. The Darwin Military Museum continues an exciting and ambitious rotation of displays with support from private business and the Northern Territory Government. Souvenirs and history books are available at the museum shop. Open 9.30-5pm 7 days, except Good Friday and Christmas Day. For more information visit www.darwinmilitarymuseum.com.au or call 08 8981 9702.

All set in grounds of tropical plants and trees still dotted with WWII fortifications. Set amongst the original 9.2-inch gun emplacements built to defend the city and harbour, the air-conditioned centre of the museum is the original command post that controlled the two vast 9.2 guns, meant to defend the city at long range from enemy battleships. By the time the Japanese attacked the city in 1942, the capital ship had become the aircraft carrier – and the Japanese launched two devastating raids that the uncompleted guns could not have stopped. But the city fought bravely, and for two years was the forefront of the raids that sought to suppress any attacks on the Japanese right flank as it drove for New Guinea. The Top End endured at least 64 air raids, and Broome in Western Australia was also raided, with around 81 dying in the first attack. Eventually squadrons of Spitfires supported by radar defended the coastline, and the Allies fought back with bombers based in and around Darwin. Thousands of troops on hundreds of ships transited through the town as the Japanese were pushed back. Post-war the territory saw defences poised for confrontation with Indonesia, and now is home to thousands of Australian Defence Force personnel. The Darwin Military Museum was formed in the 1960s and was the first Museum in Darwin. Its displays were originally formed out of military artefacts left behind in the Top End of Australia after WWII and recovered by members of the Royal Australian Artillery Association. The collection has now grown to thousands of badges,

@ East Point, just 10 minutes from city central

Video of air raids on Darwin Artillery & armoured vehicles Photographic display Firearms - past to present Aviation, Naval & Army exhibits

Come and find out about the biggest attack ever made on Australia Phone (08) 8981 9702

Open 7 Days (incl. public hols) 9.30am - 5pm info@DarwinMilitaryMuseum.com.au Summer 2010 33

20101 1 20

Mangoes: *Deliveries will attract a $10 charge in capital cities only.

Up to 10kg $15 Up to 15kg $19 Up to 20kg $23

Secured in our ventilated storage compartments & cruising on super soft suspension, your freight will ride in style. Our daily departures operate 365 days a year, Australia Wide.

Or contact your local Greyhound Freight Agent 34â&#x20AC;&#x192;

Summer 2010

Kilometre Exchange

2 9 5 0

$ 295 per person

The Rock Tour Welcome to our tour company. We just turned four years old on the 5th June 2010 and we are bigger and better than ever. We run daily at 6am from Alice Springs. Our tours book up very fast so try to book at least a fortnight in advance. The Rock Tour is the realisation of a long-term dream for its directors Rob and Jo. “We are very proud of our tour company and have created an innovative trip visiting only the very best of Central Australia’s highlights, Uluru, sunset and sunrise, Kings Canyon and Kata Tjuta (The Olgas). We will give you the best Outback experience based on our knowledge and learnings from the industry.” As a tour guide, Jo has completed over 700 trips to Uluru. Jo knows a lot about this region and still takes the odd tour and passes on his infinite knowledge to our tour guides. Jo can talk underwater with a mouth full of marbles and is one of the most experienced and knowledgeable guides in Central Australia. Our guides will show you how to find witchety grubs, cook kangaroo on the campfire and show you how the Aboriginals have hunted, survived and found food in the middle of the desert for centuries. Try one of these Aboriginal delicacies for yourself as well as some genuine “bush tucker” which you will be shown along the three guided hikes.

Pictures: The Rock Tour

Uluru – 470kms from Alice Springs

• The aboriginal owners of Uluru call themselves Anangu. • There are 36 domes of Kata Tjuta known as The Olgas. • The highest dome at Kata Tjuta is 546m high. • Of the approx. 500,000 visitors to the Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park each year, oneout-of-ten actually climb Uluru. • Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park has a desert climateand experiences extremes in temperature. Winter nights (June to August) can be as cold as -8°C overnight, and summer days (December to March) as hot as 48°C. • Kings Canyon is widely regarded as the highlight of three icons.

Rob has a background of 12 years in the corporate world and has managed a friendly backpacker hostel for two years and he knows a bit about the industry also. The Rock Tour aims to give you, the traveller a quality tour and experience of the Red Centre at an affordable price. Our strength is in our young, fun and informed guides who have been hand picked to ensure your memories of Central Australia are ever lasting. $295 is the price for our three-day two-night Uluru Tour for 2010/2011. No fuel surcharges, kittys, “code sharing” or hidden taxes. Experience the real outback with Dave, Jason, Jared, Kieran, Leslie, Ringer, Mark, Sam, Sarah and Scott. Visit our shop at 78 Todd Street, Alice Springs (free internet for anyone booked on The Rock Tour) or go to www.therocktour.com.au. You can exchange 2,950 Kms of your Greyhound Kilometre Pass to do The Rock Tour! Facts from The Rock Tour • Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park • Uluru is 348m high and extends several kilometres into the ground. The 348m we see is actually the visible tip of Uluru. • 9.4kms round the Base Walk • Uluru is not the largest monolith in the world. This title goes to Mt Augustus in Western Australia. • Uluru is 470kms from Alice Springs. Summer 2010 35

Q U EE N S L A N D

Tropical Far North

2 Photos courtesy of Tourism Queensland

36â&#x20AC;&#x192;

Summer 2010

3 1.The Lady Bowen shipwreck 2. Coconut Island 3. Cillagoe Caves

Daintree

Cape Tribulation Daintree & Cairns Tropical North Queensland (TNQ) offers the Great Barrier Reef and tropical rainforest experiences, combining adventure and relaxation within some of the greatest environmental wonders of the world. The TNQ region is a large area that extends from Mission Beach/Tully in the south to the northern (Cape York) and western (Gulf Savannah) extremes of Queensland. The region includes the key tourism icons of Cairns, Cairns beaches, Palm Cove, Port Douglas, Kuranda, Cairns Highlands, the resort islands of the Great Barrier Reef from Dunk to Lizard, Cape Tribulation and the Daintree Rainforest, Cape York Peninsula, Torres Strait, Gulf of Carpentaria, Gulf Savannah, Mission Beach and Great Green Way. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or nature lover, Tropical North Queensland can suit your style and match your mood. Take to the sea, soar to dizzy heights or keep your feet firmly planted on the ground as you discover an unlimited range of activities and natural wonders. Dive straight into your adventure holiday on the Great Barrier Reef. Cruise, sail and swim the warm, blue waters. Or get your kicks white water rafting, riding or parasailing. Helicopters and light aircraft provide a spectacular bird’s eye view of the world’s most extensive reef system while landlubbers can keep their feet dry travelling in semi-submersible craft. With interpretive rainforest walks, wildlife ecotours, bird watching and guided night walks, nature lovers are spoilt for choice. If luxury is to your liking, Tropical North Queensland is your spot. Relax in paradise on a private beach or sip cocktails pool-side and choose from our amazing array of touring options. Cooktown: Set on the banks of the Endeavour River, Cooktown is the gateway to the wilderness and the scene of bygone gold rush days. Take a day tour or extend your stay in this region brimming with history. Daintree Cape Tribulation: Travel to the soul of Tropical North Queensland’s World Heritage Listed rainforest. Cross the Daintree River by vehicular ferry and wake up to the beauty of Cape Tribulation where rainforest meets the reef. Stay at a local lodge or resort or take a tour departing from Cairns to Port Douglas, Port Douglas: Walk along glistening golden sands on Four Mile Beach by the beautiful backdrop of the Daintree Rainforest. Port Douglas is the ideal base from which to explore Tropical North Queensland. Close to the scenic wonders of Mossman Gorge, the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation, it is also a starting point for trips to the Great Barrier Reef. There are boutiques brimming with exotic wares, and you will also find some of Queensland’s finest restaurants in Port Douglas. Cairns Beaches: Travel north from Cairns to discover 26 kilometres of stunning sandy beaches, each with individual appeal and atmosphere. Holloways, Yorkey’s Knob, Trinity, Kewarra, Clifton, Palm Cove, Ellis and Oak Beach beckon. Swim, sail, windsurf or just relax under a palm tree. Cairns: An ideal base from which to explore the many attractions of Tropical North Queensland, Cairns is surrounded by forested green hills and bustles with colourful and casual sophistication. Enjoy great outdoor dining in this vibrant modern city. Explore the Art Gallery, shop at Cairns Central or the Pier Marketplace, or catch a show at the Casino. Pick up a bargain at The Pier’s Mud Markets or the Cairns Night Markets on the Esplanade.

Port Douglas

PLACES TO GO … • Dive, Snorkel or Cruise the Great Barrier Reef • Take a Day Trip to Fitzroy Island or Green Island • Visit the Flecker Botanic Gardens • Take a drive to Josephine Creek and Falls • Walk the Gondawanan Evolutionary Trail

Julatten Mt Molloy

Double Island

Kuranda

Palm Cove Trinity Beach

Green Island

CAIRNS Fitzroy Island

Mareeba Edmonton Gordonvale

Atherton

Herberton

Babinda

Malanda

Highway 1 Milla Milla

Innisfail Mourilyan

The Woolshed Char-grill and Saloon Bar The internationally recognized and award-winning Woolshed Char Grill and Saloon Bar has been Cairns’ number one venue since 1994, offering the adventurous and even the most discerning traveller an evening experience they won’t forget! Set in a prime central location, this friendly, rustic Australian-themed icon has a worldwide reputation for the best quality and value backpacker meals in Australia. Open from 6pm, seven days a week, The Woolshed Char-grill restaurant averages 500 meals per night. Famous for its steak and ribs from the grill, the menu has plenty to choose from including pizza, pasta, chicken, seafood and vegetarian. Many of the hostels, dive schools and tour groups have parties at The Woolshed which makes for a lively and friendly atmosphere. The Woolshed usually warms up with quality musicians early on, followed by entertainment and party games such as the infamous Mr and Miss Backpacker, the hilarious adaptation of the TV game show Deal or no Deal that The Woolshed aptly named MEAL OR NO MEAL, the famous Wet T-Shirt Competition and The World Goldfish Racing Championships, just to name a few. Contestants walk away with fantastic prizes ranging from skydives to Great Barrier Reef and rainforest trips, white-water rafting and bungy jumps. The main event is the wild party and dancing on the tables, the place goes off until the early hours every night of the year! The Woolshed is always the last night club open in Cairns, thankfully there is a lounge area on the balcony to chill out on. Downstairs is The Lounge, a plush dance club with local and international resident DJs mixing it up from 10pm, seven days a week. Funky house music, mind blowing light show and a wicked cocktail menu combine for a great atmosphere. The Lounge is very popular with tourism workers and is a great place to meet the locals. Go to www.thewoolshed.com.au to check out what’s on nightly, and see some great party shots. The Woolshed is rated in the top three icons of Cairns along with the Reef and the Rainforest. No visit is complete without at least one, but usually many nights out at The Woolshed, illustrated by three TNT Golden Backpacker Awards as winner Best Night Out QLD – 2007, 2008, 2009. Summer 2010 37

Gilligan’s – Australia’s leading backpacker hotel and resort experience.

afield, the absolute CBD location means you’re just a few minutes’ walk to Cairns’ waterfront lagoon, shopping centres, galleries, restaurants and nightclubs.

Gilligan’s Backpackers Hotel & Resort Gilligan’s Backpackers Hotel & Resort Cairns is the ultimate experience in backpackers hotel accommodation and leisure. Located in the city centre of Cairns, Gilligan’s is the stepping-off point to the spectacular Great Barrier Reef and stunning world heritage Daintree Rainforest. Purpose-built just six years ago it’s now under new management and is undergoing a full refurbishment project in excess of $3.5 million. Gilligan’s offers a blend of traditional backpacker accommodation (with a few added comforts) plus three-and-a-half-star hotel rooms. Our stylish modern rooms are set over four storeys all with airconditioning, ensuite bathrooms and most have private balconies. Each floor has a kitchen and newly refurbished TV and breakout area. Communal areas include a laundry, Internet, lagoon pool with sandy beach and there is even a gymnasium on the fourth floor! As a Gilligan’s guest you can laze in the pool, sample local cuisine, sip cocktails, shop, browse over local produce markets, catch up with friends over the Internet, or dance the night away – all without leaving this holiday haven. And when it’s time to explore further

northern greenhouse

Free Stuff

Kitchen

PARKING

Job Board

CAIRNS

MOVIE NIGHT LUGGAGE STORAGE

POOL LINEN

WIFI P A N C A K E S BREAKFAST TEA & COFFEE AIRPORT PICKUP ACTIVITIES

PARTIES BBQ

Award-winning hostel located in the heart of tropical Cairns

117 Grafton Street Cairns, QLD 4870

Free Call 1800 000 541 www.northerngreenhouse.com.au

• • • • • • • • • • • •

24-hour reception & access Fully equipped self-catering kitchen Airport pickup by appointment only Swimming pool with sun loungers Secure car parking Do BBQ area beds rm from Pool table per ni Air conditioning ght Travel information / desk Luggage storage facilities Ensuite bathroom in rooms Bar & entertainment decking

$22*

Voted Timeout club of the year 2009, Gilligan’s is home to Cairns’ best entertainment venue. Housing three large bars under one roof which consists of a large beer hall, deck bar and mezzanine bar upstairs. As part of the $3.5 million refurbishment, renovations have taken place in both our mezzanine club and beer hall. The Attic lounge bar is the newest edition to Cairns’ nightlife. Boasting an antique and chic feel, this bar offers a fantastic meeting place for a cocktail or great area to rent for functions. Each evening has a wide selection of cocktails and great service accompanied by an exotic blend of sounds from around the globe with a warm uplifting atmosphere that’ll leave all your senses tingling. The Attic is a venue that knows how to mix its tunes and its drinks. Holidaying has never looked so good! Freecall 1800 556 995 or (07) 4041 6566 or book online at www.gilligans.com.au.

Northern Greenhouse The Northern Greenhouse is a famous backpacker resort in Cairns catering for budget travellers looking for a tropical getaway. Awarded ‘Best Backpacker Accommodation’ in 2008 and 2009 by Tropical North Queensland, this property is one to note on your travel itinerary. Described by the Lonely Planet as ‘a cut above the other backpackers’, this hostel prides itself on its world-class facilities and activities. Modern terrace apartments overlook a central swimming pool and abut a large wooden entertainment deck littered with cosy couches, Internet stations and a pool table – a social hub to meet like-minded travellers. Embrace the free WIFI, spotless kitchen facilities fit for Gordon Ramsay, in-house bar, weekly movie screenings, daily continental breakfast, fluffy Saturday morning pancakes and traditional Sunday BBQs. Room options mostly comprise of spacious six-bed dorms (single and mixed gender) which include private ensuite and a balcony or garden terrace. Prices start from just $22 per night!

Koorana – the total crocodile experience If you want to see big crocs then Koorana is a must for you. Our largest tops the scales at 850kg with many more around the 750kg mark. If you want to see small crocs then Koorana will not only show you the little ones but you can also see them hatching from Febuary to June. If you want to hold a croc to know what they feel like then come to Koorana. Everyone has the chance to hold one and have a picture taken at no extra cost at all – just part of the Koorana experience. Now if you want to taste some croc meat, then the Crocpot Restaurant at Koorana is the place to be. Lunch is served between 12 and 1pm with croc steaks, kebabs, burgers,ribs and pies to select from. If you are nervous about trying croc meat then there are other selections to choose from. If you want croc leather products they are available at farm gate prices. For more information visit www.Koorana.com.au.

Summer 2010

• 24hr Reception / 24hr Security • Airport pickup available • Flat screen TV's in all break out areas • Chillout areas / internet lounge & wifi • AJ Hackett Flying Fox • Quality kitchen & laundry facilities • Luggage storage • Restaurant & beer hall • Deckbar, beer garden & nightclub • Rockin’ entertainment - DJs, live music & events • WIN one of many cash & prize giveaways

*Conditions Apply. Pay 4 nights and receive 5th night free. This special cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer

• FREE Evening Meal • FREE Linen • FREE Parking • FREE Gymnasium • FREE Tour Advice • Air-conditioned rooms • Ensuites in EVERY room type • Massive lagoon swimming pool • Great Location! Right in the City centre • VIP Discounts for Inhouse Guests throughout the Venue

Summer 2010 39

40â&#x20AC;&#x192;

Summer 2010

Cape Trib Connections

Cairns Dive – experts on the Great Barrier Reef

Hundreds of thousands of backpackers have made the journey from Cairns to Cape Tribulation over the past 20-odd years. With its beautiful beaches and rainforest-covered mountains it is truly one of the most stunning places on earth. Cape Trib Connections has more experience than any other company that takes backpackers to Cape Tribulation.

Cairns Dive Centre is one of the largest certifying agencies in the world. We have been operating in Cairns for many years, maintaining outstanding customer service. Learn-to-dive courses (SSI certification, recognised all over the world) commence daily in our training facility, which include an air-conditioned classroom and a heated, four-metre-deep pool. We have study material and exams available in various foreign languages.

I personally have taken tours up there since 1990 and have seen and experienced just about everything you can when it comes to the Cape. Some of us have lived up there for years, so it is a bit like travelling with the locals. Put simply – we do it the best. And believe me it is something you should consider. We do a great one-day tour but if you have time, stay one or two nights – we have a great selection of accommodation options for you to choose from on our overnight tours. We visit an animal sanctuary along the way to show you crocodiles, snakes and birds, including the rare cassowary, sugar gliders and more. We take you to picturesque Mossman Gorge, stunning lookouts, guided rainforest boardwalks, a crocodile spotting cruise on the Daintree River and a visit to Port Douglas. Accommodation options include Beach House, PK’s Jungle Village or Ferntree Rainforest Lodge. On your way home why not extend your stay with an overnight visit to Port Douglas? We also have a Tablelands and Waterfalls Adventure Day Tour onto the Atherton Tablelands. Only $55. That’s right $55! It’s our RECESSION BUSTER and includes BREAKY. Visit our website for great monthly specials such as: November: Cape Tribulation Day Tour ONLY $89! (Excl. Lunch). December: See Website Go to www.capetribconnections.com for more information.

Day cruises operate daily onboard the M.V. Sun-Kist and offer a fast 90-minute transfer to the reef. She carries a maximum of 25 passengers on her day trips and visits two different snorkel/dive sites. All snorkel/dive equipment is included, as well as buffet lunch, tea or coffee. Introductory scuba dives are available on request. Live-aboard trips onboard the M.V. Kangaroo Explorer – a modern, 25-metre catamaran – also commence daily to the Great Barrier Reef. Each of her 16 cabins (twin, double and four-berth) is fully airconditioned, carpeted, has its own ensuite facilities and a window. Our double and twin rooms are sold on a first-come-first-serve basis, for no extra cost at the time of booking. Our chef prepares fresh food daily, catering for most dietary requirements. The top deck offers an enclosed air-conditioned sun lounge as well as an open and shaded sundeck. The Kangaroo Explorer is equipped with a spacious dive deck, providing easy access to and from the water. Our dive sites have been selected for their diversity and abundance of marine life, with their magnificent array of coral formations, giant clams, walls, drop-offs, swim-throughs and brilliantly coloured fish. Our great number of dive locations allows us to pick the right dive post for any particular day. Come and experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef. For bookings and information visit www.cairnsdive.com.au or call 07 4051 0294.

Summer 2010 41

Discover Cairns with Ocean Hotels and Sunlover Reef Cruises

visitors to the magic of the Great Barrier Reef through our daily cruises from Cairns. We love the reef and we love showing it off. We love to show it off. Enjoy a sleep-in before check-in at 9.30am for a 10am departure – and still enjoy a full 4½ hours discovering the reef. Rates include all taxes AND we won’t charge extra for snorkelling gear, semi-sub tours or our glass bottom boat.

There is no better place in Australia for adventure and excitement than Cairns and the Tropical North of Queensland. Stay and play for a night or two in the centre of Cairns at Hides Hotel, three-star motel-style accommodation overlooking the City Square. Enjoy a light continental breakfast with compliments on the historic Hides Hotel balcony as the mall awakes. Hides is located only a short walk from the Esplanade beach, nightlife, restaurants and the Reef Fleet Terminal for your Great Barrier Reef adventure with Sunlover Reef Cruises.

See reception at Hides Hotel for more great ideas on things to do in Cairns – white water rafting, quad bikes, skyrail, ballooning, or take a drive north and discover the Daintree rainforest for a night or two for jungle surfing, croc spotting and a touch of jungle fever. Visit www.oceanhotels.com.au or www.sunlover.com.au for more information.

At Sunlover Reef Cruises, we have had the pleasure of introducing

Sunlover

Reef Cruises Discover the real reef

At Sunlover Reef Cruises, we’ve had the pleasure of introducing hundreds of thousands of visitors to the magic of the Great Barrier Reef. We love the reef and we love showing it off! We would love to show you too, join us on our express, luxury cruises from Cairns – operating daily. CRUISE TO MOORE REEF INCLUDES • 4 hours on The Great Barrier Reef • 10am departure from Cairns Reef Fleet Terminal (sleep in!) • Moore Reef Pontoon • Buffet seafood lunch & afternoon tea • FREE Semi-Submersible Tour • FREE Glass Bottom Boat Tour • FREE snorkelling gear *ID required. Leaving from Cairns.

Phone 07 4050 1333 Freecall 1800 810 512 Email res@sunlover.com.au

www.sunlover.com.au 42

Summer 2010

DISCOVER

BACKPACKER SPECIAL from

$130* pp

SCUBA DIVING from

$80 pp intro $125 pp cert.

THE REAL REEF

Picture: JJ’s Backpackers

Experience the thrill of flying to a spectacular snorkel site on a Down Under Helicopters scenic flight.

JJ’s Backpackers Looking for a hostel that is large enough to meet new friends but small enough to get that ‘personal touch’? JJ’s Backpackers is a small hostel famous for its friendly, helpful staff and relaxed, chilled atmosphere. Choose to relax by our sparkling tropical pool, join in a game of table tennis or come and talk to our experienced staff who will offer honest advice on local and interstate activities and discounted tours. Offering a choice of single, twin, double and small dorms, JJ’s is a clean, safe place to stay with lots of fun! A free breakfast and evening meal is offered daily to our guests. We also enjoy BBQ nights and pizza nights and you get to meet other guests staying in the hostel. All linen is supplied; kitchen and laundry facilities, safety deposit and overnight pack storage. We’ll help you save those extra dollars, so drop us a line for your free pick-up! Reservations: 1800 666 336 Email: jjsbackpackers@ ledanet.com.au JJ’s Backpackers Hostel, 11–13 Charles Street, Cairns, Queensland 4870. Telephone 07 4051 7642, Fax 07 4051 7223 or you can visit www.jjsbackpackers.com DORMS

FROM

$20 FREE B Dinner reakfast & everyd ay!

A fun, small, safe place to stay! YOUR HOME AWAY FROM HOME 3 or 4 share dorms – double, twin, singles FREE courtesy pick-up service Small, clean, friendly with great relaxed atmosphere Convenient to city, esplanade, pubs, shops and takeaways FREE security and overnight pack storage Pool, BBQ, TV video, table tennis

Secure off-street parking Discounted tour booking office Owner-operated

Book Direct On Freecall

1800 666 336 or www.jjsbackpackers.com

Down Under Helicopters The best way to see the reef! Our Cruise + Heli package to the Outer Reef is awesome value! Get aboard our fast cruise to two amazing outer reef sites, explore the wonders below the surface snorkelling, diving or on a semi-sub tour. Then get above it as you feel the thrill of flying over the Great Barrier Reef on a breathtaking helicopter flight. Have your camera ready as you soar over five different reef systems and sand cays, while your pilot searches the coral sea for turtles and whales. Our pilots love what they do (who wouldn’t?) and will take you on an exhilarating flight showing you the very best of the region before touching down in Cairns. Cruise, Fly and Get High with Down Under Helicopters! Cruise + Heli Special – normally $360 standby special $270. For information visit www.helicharters.com.au or call 07 4034 9000.

FL LY Y+

SNORKEL

ON THE GREAT BARRIER REEF WITH

07 4034 9000

www.downunderheli.com

* DIRECT BOOKINGS ONLY. CONDITIONS APPLY Summer 2010 43

There’s so much more at Mission Beach Located just south of Cairns is vibrant Mission Beach. This piece of paradise offers over 14km of the most beautiful golden beaches you will ever see – one of only a few spots in Australia where two of the world’s heritage listed areas, the Tropical Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef come together. When we got off our bus in Wongaling Beach and wondered down to the beach, the natural beauty of the area almost took our breath away – we really couldn’t believe our luck as it was only by chance a fellow traveller had told us about Mission Beach. Mission Beach consists of four villages; South Mission Beach, Wongaling Beach, North Mission Beach and Bingil Bay that are easily accessible by the ‘Mission Impossible’ local coach service. The vibe of Mission Beach is exactly what you think of when you imagine Australian tropical coastal living at its best – we had only planned on staying for one night but after seeing what there is to do and experience in Mission Beach we decided to stay for a while. The Information Station directed us to some of the most breathtaking water holes and walking tracks through some of the oldest rainforest in the world, Echo Creek offer a guided cultural experience for those who prefer to have someone show the way. It

was then down to the beach to sit under the stars that lit up the ocean and the neighbouring islands … jealous ? I have summed up the best of our experiences for you and I will let you decide for yourselves if you think Mission Beach is worth a visit.

What to Do You cannot go to Mission Beach without experiencing a sky dive from 14,000ft over the reef and landing on the beach – it was literally mind-blowing! We did our jump with Australia Skydive in Wongaling Beach and cannot fault them. A visit to the reef with Calypso Dive also goes down as one of my greatest days ever – the marine life was spectacular – I was happy just to snorkel but a few of my friends dived – we saw manta rays, reef sharks, sea turtles. Need I say more? A day trip over the nearby Dunk Island was also an awesome way to spend the day – we got there by ‘Sea Legs’- a boat that goes on both land and water! Talk about door to door service! The Water Taxi and Quick Cat cruises also offer regular daily services to the island or if you are feeling ambitious you can hire sea kayaks and make your own way there. Our morning on Dunk was spent getting our daily adrenalin rush circling the island on Jet-skis and the afternoon chillaxing at Jetty’s bar with a few cocktails! We also decided to do white water rafting in the nearby Tully river – not only a thrilling experience but also beautiful to just spend some time on one of the most famous fresh water rivers in Australia. The Sunday session – ‘Sangria Sundays’ at Biebisa at Castaways Resorts was the perfect way to end our time in Mission Beach – great tunes in the Sunday sun and then we danced away at the nearby Shrubbery bar.

Where to Stay We stayed at Absolute Backpackers in Wongaling Beach – this place was lush! More like a resort rather than backpackers but with a price tag that will make you smile. Some other people we met were at the Treehouse Hostel up in the hills behind Bingil Bay– they loved it and couldn’t stop raving about the views of the rainforest from the huge pool. Another great choice is Mission Beach Retreat – this place offers clean, budget accommodation right in the centre of town and more importantly right next to the beach. Or if you are camping – you can’t go past Bali Hai in Wongaling Beach – a great campground on the beach, littered with coconut trees and hammocks – very cool!

What to bring Nothing but an open heart to be filled with everything this wonderful place has to offer. If you do decide to visit – I would recommend a four night minimum stay– then all you have to do is take in tropical paradise and love it! 44

Summer 2010

Mission Beach Business & Tourism PO Box 266 | Mission Beach Qld 4852 Australia T: 07 4068 7099 | E: info@missionbeachtourism.com www.imaginemoremission.com.au

Summer 2010â&#x20AC;&#x192; 45

Wake up to the thrills of Mission Beach Mission Beach – that slice of paradise nestled between Cairns and Magnetic Island – offers an enticing mix of activities and experiences for everyone from the adventure traveller to the “chill” seeker. In this beautiful place where the rainforest meets the reef, there is something for everyone. Fancy jumping out of a perfectly good airplane? Want to land at the best drop zone in Oz? Easy as!! Want to white water raft amidst magnificent scenery, down the best rapids in Australia … nay … the world? Need the challenge of the mighty Tully River? Sorted. Taking it a bit easier? Up to a quick trip to the reef for snorkelling over the coral or scenic Dunk Island for some relaxation and natural beauty? Done.

and forth and means that you’re never more than 10 minutes from an island paradise!

Treehouse YHA Treehouse YHA is a truly unique timber pole hostel nestled amongst lush rainforest and is fully licensed, with its own office bar. The ambiance encourages relaxation and a communion with nature, guests staying in multi-share, double and twin rooms, as well as having camping options. Wide verandas with hammocks and sun lounges, and a swimming pool round out the atmosphere. Make yourself at home for a few days at a laid back tree house set in the rainforest.

Scotty’s Beach House

With accommodation to suit any need and activities to suit any desire, Mission Beach is the epitome of a perfect paradise, with excitement and relaxation as required. Pencil in a three night stay, you won’t regret it!

The original family-run backpacker in Mission Beach! With over 22 years of service, lush palm fronds shading a 3m deep pool, hammocks and soporific sofas, close proximity to bars, restaurants and – most importantly – the beach, it’s no wonder Scotty’s has won awards and recognition for its unrivalled atmosphere. Accommodation is in air-conditioned dorms and doubles with new bathrooms. Free wildlife tours, fire shows and bonfires are just a few of the reasons that many come for a day and stay for a week. Chill by hanging out on the spectacular beach or enjoy the nightly activities at the Bar and Grill after a day of adventure.

Skydive: Australia

The Mission Beach Retreat

If you’re looking for a big night out or a casual drink with friends, take your pick of the delicious eateries and bars that span the 14km of coast that make up Mission Beach. For any backpacker or traveller, the answer is simple: Mission Beach is the must-see destination in Far North Queensland.

Giving people the thrill of a lifetime since 1981, Skydive: Australia has made over 1 million skydive dreams come true. The only thing better than taking part in Australia’s highest skydive – at 14,000ft – is the experience of diving over tropical islands and landing on the palm-fringed golden sand of the Beach! Don’t sit on a bus for half a day, book your skydive event at Mission Beach! Skydive Mission Beach boasts the world’s first exclusive skydive resort across from the drop zone with a weekly all-you-can-eat barbecue as well!

RnR Rafting

The only budget hostel accommodation right in the centre of town, which provides you with the most convenient access to all shops in the beachside village. A supermarket, restaurants, bars, takeaways, post office, newsagency, and souvenirs are all right next door. In other words, no waiting for courtesy buses—you can walk to everything! The beach is a two minute walk from the air-conditioned double and dorm rooms, with a cozy TV lounge, tropical pool and tidy kitchen. Locally owned and run, it offers a family friendly atmosphere that is hard to beat.

The thunderous Tully River is Australia’s most famous rafting adventure – a highlight of any visit to Tropical North Queensland. Save $10 and four hours in a coach by booking your rafting from Mission! RnR, the rafting specialists, will take you for an action packed experience filled with natural beauty, heaps of fun, thrills and spills on a day you will never forget. Feel the rush of tackling Grade 4 rapids and, if you dare, take the plunge and try raft surfing, rapid swimming, and rock jumping!

Café Coconutz

Dunk Island Water Taxi

Scotty’s Bar and Grill

Standing on the shore of Mission Beach and looking out, you’re met with an awe-inspiring view of Dunk Island. The Dunk Island Express Water Taxi ferries you the 10 minutes to this beautiful Island, where you can relax at the beachside restaurant, go on a nature walk around the island, camp a few nights or take advantage of the multitude of water sports and activities on offer. Six departures from the mainland and island each day ensure ease of getting back

Moon rising above the coconut palms, views overlooking the Coral Sea, tasty, value-for-money meals and the air-conditioned Hard Banana Bar out the back are only a few of the reasons that Scotty’s Bar and Grill is a stop in itself when visiting Mission Beach. Located adjacent to Scotty’s Beach House, the Bar and Grill boasts the best steaks in town, nightly games and theme nights and a variety of tap beers. Party like there’s no tomorrow at Scotty’s Bar and Grill.

Summer 2010

For a relaxed atmosphere and meals under $10 every day of the week, Café Coconutz is the perfect place to chill out in Mission Beach. Lots of prizes are to be won at game and party nights. Play a round of pool or catch up with family and friends back home on the in-house Internet facilities. With courtesy buses to and from your hostel, it’s always easy to stop in and have a great time!

THRILL & CHILL at MISSION BEACH Go Rafting on the Tully River! From Mission Beach it is $10 cheaper & 3 hours less travel time than Cairns

www.raft.com.au Ph: 4041 9444

Australia’s best drop zone! FREECALL: 1800 800 840

Youre at home in the Rainforest

Experience DUNK ISLAND!

Treehouse YHA

Frizelle Road (off Bingil Bay Rd) Ph: 4068 7137 E: treehouse@qld.chariot.net.au Book online: www.yha.com.au Mission Beach Water Taxi operates regular trips to Dunk Island.

$30 return

Tel: 07 4068 8310 Booking Office & departure point: Banfied Pde, Mission Beach

Popular... Very Laid Back... Impressive

Chill out in our family run 30 bed Hostel ON THE BEACH!

• Cool/ Chilled • Most meals under $10 seven days a week just great food • Party nights and Games nights with door prizes • Pool table and internet facilities • Courtesy bus to and from your hostel

Right in Mission Beach Village, next door to Shops, Cafes & Bars. • Meal and drink deals with Cafe Coconutz. • FREE accom with Skydives and Whitsunday Sailing booked with us when you mention this ad.

Phone 07 4088 6229 www.missionbeachretreat.com.au

Awesome Atmosphere!

WORLD BAR

Call: 07 4088 6229 Come & enjoy sunset cocktails right across from the beach! Serving backpacker & family friendly meals.

Air Conditioned Huge 18m pool! Discount Meals & Drinks @ Scottys Bar & Grill 24hr Kitchen! 24hr WIFI! FREE Wildlife Tours! Best Showers Ever! www.scottysbeachhouse.com.au

Ph: 07 4068 8676 - Freecall: 1800 665 567

167 Reid Rd, Mission Beach, QLD T: 07 4068 8870 Summer 2010 47

Q U EE N S L A N D

Tropical Queensland

Photos courtesy of Tourism Queensland

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Summer 2010

1. Flinders Street nightlights, Townsville 2. Kangaroo at Billabong Sanctuary 3. Reef HQ, Townsville

Blue Water Bushland Beach Thuringowa

Townsville & Magnetic Island With the idyllic paradise of Magnetic Island right at your doorstep, it’s not hard to see why people are attracted to Townsville. With an eclectic mix of rainforest, reef, sandy beaches, outback bush and big city benefits, Townsville has something for every holiday itinerary. It’s the very heart of life in the tropics, with the region extending north to captivating Mission Beach, south to the rustic Burdekin and west to historic Charters Towers. Surrounded by a rich hinterland of tropical rainforests and waterfalls, Townsville is the gateway to heritage gold-mining towns, the stunning outback, scenic islands and, of course, the Great Barrier Reef.

Giru Woodstock

MT ELLIOT NATIONAL PARK

Charters Towers

BOWLING GREEN BAY NATIONAL PARK

Ayr Home Hill

CAPE UPSTART NATIONAL PARK

Highway 1

Mingela

Ravenswood

PLACES TO GO …

• Enjoy the views across Cleveland Bay to Magnetic Island • Visit the Billabong Wildlife Sanctuary • Snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef • Visit the Museum of Tropical Queensland • Reef HQ, the largest living coral reef aquarium in the world • Learn about local Indigenous history at the Cultural Centre • Castle Hill offers breathtaking views • Go swimming at Riverway esplanade The Museum of Tropical Queensland

Magnetic Island, or Maggie as 2,500 locals affectionately know her, is the perfect island escape. A short ferry ride lands you in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park, where more than 2,000 koalas roam wild and unique bird life inhabit the island. With 23 bays and beaches across the island, you are free to explore the splendour and beauty the island is renowned for. If looking for hidden treasures sounds exhausting, other gems await you in the hub of Townsville city. Catering for sophisticated palates and elegant tropical fun, this flourishing cosmopolitan city boasts an array of cafés, bars, restaurants, nightclubs, a world class casino and shopping experiences like no other. Whichever one you choose, you’ll experience Townsville’s friendly and unique, relaxed tropical ambience. If the local underwater residents are your kind of company, visit Reef HQ in Townsville’s city to meet them up close, watch shark feeding and learn about the marine life that call the reef home. If you like a more hands-on experience, the Great Barrier Reef offers visitors one of the most beautiful, diverse, rich and abundant coral reef environments to explore on this planet.

TOWNSVILLE

Maorri Wrasse

For thrill seekers, a scenic flight will allow you to take in the overwhelming beauty of the north, give your head a spin with aerobatics over the skyline of Townsville and views over tropical islands or watch as the north’s own cowboys take on a bull at various rodeos. So whether you’re looking for an action-packed tropical holiday, or just want to laze on a warm secluded beach, you can experience life in the tropics and more on your holiday to Townsville.

Two great Townsville attractions Located in the heart of Townsville’s CBD and within easy walking distance from the Greyhound bus station, Reef HQ Aquarium and the Museum of Tropical Queensland are a must-see for all visitors to North Queensland. Experience the wonders of the Great Barrier Reef without getting wet at the World’s largest living coral reef aquarium. Take part in the new Turtle Hospital tours where you can learn how sick and injured turtles are rehabilitated here at Reef HQ Aquarium or join one of our daily dive-and-feeding shows. With impressive live exhibits, Reef HQ Aquarium offers an ever-changing always fascinating experience. The Museum of Tropical Queensland is a fantastic place to discover the natural and cultural heritage of North Queensland. The museum is full of captivating exhibitions, including the Pandora Gallery where visitors have the opportunity to see artefacts from HMS Pandora, the ship sent by British Admiralty to capture the Bounty and her mutinous crew. Best of all, these two big attractions are all next door to one another on Flinders Street East, so visit us today! Summer 2010 49

Picture: Tourism Queensland

Reef Lodge: Townsville’s highest-rated hostel RACQ rated 3.5 star Lonely Planet pick of Townsville 15th edition 2009–2010: “It’s hard to get a bed in this bright, cherry and friendly hostel so book ahead to enjoy hammocks, concrete jungle, palm trees, a games room and BBQ. It’s located near the action of Flinders St East.” BUG Backpackers Ultimate Guide 4-star Rating: “Reef Lodge is a beautifully maintained hostel with a laid back atmosphere right in the heart of the city centre. The dorms are air-conditioned, comfortable and clean; bathrooms are spotless with new fittings and hairdryers and the kitchen is well equipped. There is a games room/gym and a pool table plus a couple of cosy TV lounges. Internet access is available in the courtyard ($5 per hour) and there are laundry facilities. Security is very good and the reception staff are wonderfully kind and helpful.” Reef Lodge’s success is based on ensuring our honesty and cleanliness as well as our ability to look after the needs of Backpackers. We have no hidden costs and we don’t use gimmicks to get you in. We are Townsville’s oldest, and certainly one of Townsville’s most central, hostels. Reeflodge was built back in the early 70s and has a unique charm of its own. We are more than happy for you to come and look through the hostel before you check in. We understand that most of our travellers are looking for a quiet, laid back environment, so we ask that people settle down after 10.30pm and take the party to the clubs. This way people can get some rest as many of the backpackers staying here have jobs.

Adventurers Backpackers Resort

We are only 200 to 600 meters from the beach, city centre, ferry terminal, Museum, Aquarium, Imax Theatre, Indigenous Centre and the Tourist Information Centre. “The Strand” beach front, at 2.5 kilometres long, is a great walk and has a salt water lagoon at one end and a small water park at the other. We also have a free BBQ, pool table and gym and two TV and DVD areas. There are also plenty of places to just sit and take it easy. All rooms have airconditioning, and our twins, doubles and motel rooms have fridge, toaster and kettle provided. Did I mention you can kill yourself in Townsville? There is a large hill that takes about 45 minutes to walk up. The only time I walked up the hill, I felt I was going to have myself a good old fashioned myocardial infarction and drop dead! There is an upside; after you realise you’re not going to die and it was only a near-death experience, the effort is well worth it, as it has a great panoramic view of the whole city. Particularly good at sunset!

At night take a stroll up Palmer Street and visit the many restaurants and pubs you have right on your door step. Stop for a pint in the local Irish Pub then stop for a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants, all within a 5 minute walk from Adventurers Resort.

ge Backpacke d o L f e rs Re IN THE HEART OF THE CITY

Snorkelling at Alma Bay

Located on trendy Palmer Street, Adventurers Resort is a friendly, cheap, clean and safe family-run hostel that you won’t want to leave! We offer air-con, secure undercover car parking, 24-hour lockers, 24-hour video surveillance, a guest lounge, Internet access, a convenience store, free tea and coffee and luggage storage. We also have a fantastic on-site Indian Restaurant, Masala, and an amazing roof-top pool with fantastic views over Townsville Harbour, Castle Hill and Magnetic Island.

For those of you who want to visit ‘Maggie’ (as it is known to the locals) you can jump on the Red Bus that stops at Adventurers Resort and goes to the Ferry Terminal, as well as The Strand, The Mall and The Casino, all for $1.60! You can also book trips from our Tour Desk to attractions such as The Wildlife Sanctuary and The Aquarium. You can also book daily reef trips, a scuba diving course, a sky dive, a white water rafting day trip and a hot air balloon ride. For more information telephone 1800 211 522 or email us at adventurersresort@hotmail.com.

See coup

• All rooms with A/C • Ensuite rooms • Double rooms • Twin Rooms • Main dorm • Female dorm • Small dorms

on booklet

FREEfor Internet

4 Wickham Street, Townsville QLD, Aust 4810

P (07) 4721 1112 F (07) 4721 1405 E enquiries@reeflodge.com.au Summer 2010

• Dorm, single, twins and doubles

• CC TV • Large kitchen • Laundry • 24 hr access • ISDN phone • Fax • Internet

LESS THAN 600m TO: LESS THAN 200m TO: • Beach • City Centre • Pubs & clubs • Restaurants • Ferry Terminal • Tropical Museum • IMAX Theatre • Bus Terminal • Reef HQ Aquarium • Olympic Pool www.reeflodge.com.au

• Air conditioned rooms

Offer!

• Rooftop pool and sundeck • Email, fax and Internet • Maggie Island package • Card holders discount • Female dorms • Crisp white sheets • New Indian restaurant 79 Palmer Street Townsville, QLD 4810 Ph: 07 4721 1522 Fax: 07 4721 3251 Free pick-up from Townsville Transit Centre

1800 211 522

Email: adventurersresort@hotmail.com Website: www.adventurersresort.com

PRESENT THIS AD FOR:

3RD NIGHT FREE (Dorm) OR

$4 OFF ANY ROOM

Traveller’s information Money: Notes: $5, $10, $20, $50 & $100. Coins: 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 & $2. Odd cents are rounded to the nearest 5c. GST: A Goods and Services Tax (GST) of 10% applies to most items including hotel and restaurant bills. Credit Cards: Major credit and charge cards are widely accepted including American Express, Diners, Mastercard and Visa. EFTPOS & ATMs: Most automatic teller machines (ATMs) will issue Australian currency to foreign card-holders. Look for the Cirrus emblem. EFTPOS services are also available to foreign bank card-holders. Look for the Maestro symbol. Bureaux de Change: Major city banks have specialist bureaux de change but foreign currency and travellers cheques can usually be exchanged at any bank. Travelex branches are based at Brisbane Airport’s International Terminal. Electricity: AC 240 volts, 50 cycle system. Time: There are three times zones in Australia. Australian Eastern Standard Time (GMT +10) is followed in New South Wales (except Broken Hill); Victoria; Queensland; Tasmania; and Australian Capital Territory. Australian Central Standard Time (GMT +9½) is followed in South Australia; Northern Territory; and Broken Hill, NSW. Australian Western Standard Time (GMT +8) is followed in Western Australia. Daylight Saving Time is observed in all states except Queensland and the Northern Territory. It begins on the first Sunday in October and ends on the first Sunday in April. Where daylight saving is being observed clocks are turned ahead one hour at the start, and back one hour at the finish, of daylight saving. Tourist Refund Scheme: The TRS enables you to claim a refund of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) and Wine Equalisation Tax (WET) on goods you buy in Australia. The refund only applies to goods you take as hand luggage when you leave the country. Telephones: Payphones accept coins, credit cards and Phonecards (available from newsagents). Mobile phones: Australia currently uses both second generation and third generation (3G) terrestrial mobile telecommunications technologies. Second generation GSM and 3G networks currently cover up to 99 per cent of the Australian population and 25 per cent of the Australian landmass. These services are available in many regional areas and along a number of national and regional highways. Directory Assistance: Local and national calls: 1223; international calls: 1225 Translation Service: 13 14 50 International Calls: The international connection code is 0011 for per minute calls or 0018 for easy ½ hour connections. Country Direct (Freecall 1800 801 800) enables visitors to access their home country for collect or credit card calls. Emergency Services: call 000 (triple zero) for all Police, Fire, and Ambulance emergencies from any land line or 3G mobile phone. For non-urgent enquiries dial 131 444 or refer to a local telephone directory. Dial 112 from any GSM mobile phone or Text 106.

Bungalow Bay Koala Village

Bungalow Bay Koala Village, Magnetic Island Sleep with a Koala and wake up with a Croc! Bungalow Bay Koala Village is Australia’s only resort with resident koalas and other Aussie wildlife in its boutique wildlife park. The resort also offers accommodation for the eco-conscious traveller, with double/twin bungalows, share bungalows (dorm style ranging from 3 to 8 share) with private facilities, ensuite double accommodation and camp sites available. Roaming native wildlife intermingles throughout the 6.5 acre property including rock wallabies, curlews and possums. The champagne breakfast is an iconic island experience which is held every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday 8:30-10am. The breakfast is a mix of traditional and Australian bush tucker fare where you can cook your own toast over the fire as well as being greeted by native Australian animals including koalas, crocodiles and snakes. Koala holding and photo opportunities available at the breakfast experience. Bungalow Bay also has three daily wildlife presentations held at 10am, 12 noon and 2:30pm. Visitors can interact with a snake, hold a blue tongue lizard, a small salt water crocodile or a koala. The tour includes a short walk to nearby habitats of eucalypt forest, wetlands and mangroves and coastal dunes neighbouring the sanctuary. Highlights • Hold a koala or a crocodile with local rangers at your hostel • 7 acres to relax and unwind on an island not overrun by tourism • A short walk away is Horseshoe Bay Beach, the centre of all water based island activities & walking trails • Laze around the island’s largest tropical pool and then join in the fun at the famous “Deck Bar” and Bombay Nites restaurant. Activities 7 nights at the deck bar including coconut bowling, trivia night and minute to win it.

Maggie MadnessMAGNETIC $95 - Save $31 ISLAND • • • •

2 nights ensuite bungalow Return ferry transfers $20 Food & Beverage voucher 2 hours WIFI or 30 minute Internet • ½ day Snorkel and Fins hire • Rock Wallaby food to feed the natives

UPG TO D RADE B BUN L/TWIN GA $18 LOW

40 Horseshoe Bay Rd, Magnetic Island • Freecall 1800 285 577

www.bungalowbay.com.au

Summer 2010 51

Q U EE N S L A N D

Whitsundays

Photos courtesy of Tourism Queensland, Mark Pearson Adventure Photography Whitsundays

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Summer 2010

1. Catseye Bay 2. Cedar Falls near Proserpine 3. Sailing off Lindeman Island 4. Langford Island

See you in paradise There are plenty of great value holiday escapes to the Whitsundays, in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. From the Whitsundays coastline stretching from Bowen in the north to Laguna Quays in the south, and 74 tropical islands, most uninhabited, the region has something for everyone from families to independent travellers and couples seeking a romantic getaway.

Hydeaway Bay

TOWNSVILLE

Hayman Island

Prosperpine

AIRLIE BEACH

Daydream Island

Shute Harbour

Cedar Creek Falls

Hook Island South Molle Island Whitsunday Island

Long Island

Hamilton Island

Highway 1

Lindeman Island

CONWAY NATIONAL PARK Bloomsbury

Cape Conway

Brampton Island

It’s one of the most beautiful places on the planet and it’s right in our own back yard! With the bustling village of Airlie Beach at its heart, the sugar cane town of Proserpine in the west and the World Heritage listed marvel of the Great Barrier Reef in the east, the Whitsundays cater for all ages and budgets. Airlie’s laid back village atmosphere hasn’t been spoiled. Redeveloped hotels and new self-contained apartments combine luxury with spectacular views over the Coral Sea and islands. In the centre of town, a huge man-made swimming lagoon set in tropical gardens provides year-round swimming and shady spots to stretch out and relax. Nearby Bowen is famous for its mangoes, while the fresh produce of the hinterland and abundant seafood finds its way to the tables of restaurants, both on the islands and coast. The main street of Airlie is alive with bars, cafés and al fresco restaurants, offering seafood, Italian, Mediterranean, contemporary Australian, Thai, Greek, Mexican, Indian and some of the best grilled beef steaks in the country. Dining on the islands is as diverse as great value buffets, beachfront cafes to five star a la carte and gourmet picnics.

Airlie Beach.com

There are many day tour options available from the coast and islands. Popular spots include Langford Reef and Whitehaven Beach, a 6km stretch of white, silica sand. You can tour the hinterland rainforest while the Barefoot Bushman’s Wildlife Park has an amazing crocodile show. Keep your eyes open for “salties” on the Proserpine River Eco Tour, which operates an ecological excursion along the wild reaches of the Proserpine River and the Goorganga Wetlands or explore the Whitsundays Coast with a local tour operator, taking in the local beauty spots and history. The Whitsundays are home to a huge fleet of boats perfect for exploring the islands and nearby Great Barrier Reef.

Their trips have to be the best value for money available, so with over 80 boats to choose from, play it safe and call the local discount specialists.

The Whitsundays offers a great value escape, for the most active to relaxed holiday breaks. Whether you’re travelling independently, as a family or with your partner, the choices range from motels, self-contained apartments, five-star island resorts to all-inclusive island getaways. 4

PLACES TO GO …

• Visit the Bushman’s Wildlife Park • Explore uninhabited islands

• Cruise the Great Barrier Reef • Tour the hinterland rainforest

Whitsundays Central Reservations Call for the latest local discounts and most reliable advice on all Whitsunday Sailing Trips. Airlie Beach.com (situated next door to Hog’s Breath Café, top end of the main street) is famous for unbeatable prices, free accommodation and Internet (conditions may apply). You’d have to be crazy to book your Whitsundays sailing trip out of town. Only a local can offer the very latest available discounts. Remember, they live there so they know what’s good. And unlike some out-of-town agent or hostel, they are in Airlie Beach to ensure that the trip meets with your expectations upon your return from the islands.

And don’t forget to tell them you saw it in Travel Time for unlimited free Internet with your overnight sailing adventure. Freecall 1800 677 119 or visit www.airliebeach.com.

ISLANDS ONE WEB SITE

www.airliebeach.com ONE PHONE NUMBER

1800 677 119 S AV E $ $ $

WITH LOCAL RATES & SPECIAL PACKAGES

W H I T S U N D A Y S

G R E A T

B A R R I E R

R E E F

A U S T R A L I A

The Whitsundays

Central Reservations Centre 259 Shute Harbour Rd Airlie Beach Queensland Australia 4802

Ph: +61 (07) 4946 5299 info@airliebeach.com Next to Hog’s Breath Café Providing quality, low cost sailing adventures in the Whitsundays for over 14 years

Summer 2010 53

Easy online booking www.greyhound.com.au

Greyhound Australia’s large range of product is available to purchase through the website www.greyhound.com.au. The user-friendly site has all of your booking information on the left of the page.

Skydive Airlie Beach Skydive Airlie Beach offers you the ultimate adrenalin rush with the ultimate view, it is with out a doubt the most exhilarating way to see the magnificent Whitsunday Islands. Falling from a plane and plummeting 220 kilometres an hour over the beautiful Whitsundays, then floating down to the ground under parachute, gives you a spectacular bird’s eye view of this magnificent region. This is where the lush green Rainforest Mountains meet the striking turquoise waters surrounding the infamous Whitsunday Islands fringed by coral reef. This tour will absolutely be the best thing you did on your holiday. It is a 2-3 hour activity with free local transfers. All of the team at Skydive Airlie Beach are skilled professionals, and knowing they’ve done it thousands of times before is very reassuring, even for the most apprehensive individuals. They operate seven days a week weather permitting and offer free local transfers from Airlie Beach. For all enquiries you can call them from 7:30am to 7:30 pm on 0418 762315. Skydiving is an amazing experience you will NEVER forget and location is everything when it comes to your Skydive. Many people will only ever do it once and the beautiful Whitsunday Islands definitely has the best view. Take the leap! For more information visit www.skydiveairliebeach.com.au.

Directly over the fantastic Whitsunday Islands (07) 4946 9115

www.skydiveairliebeach.com.au

• 300m walk to town of Airlie Beach • Fantastic Views from our hilltop location • 1, 2, 3 Bedroom self contained air conditioned apartments • Free transfer from bus station in Airlie Beach to Airlie Apartments.

07 4946 6222

www.airlieapartments.com.au

Summer 2010

3 night min stay SPECIAL 1: $285 1 Bedroom Garden View Apt for 2 people $47.50pp (+ an extra 5% discount with proof of coupon) SPECIAL 2: $450 2 Bedroom Garden View Apt for 4 people $37.50pp (+ an extra 5% discount with proof of coupon) All bookings subject to availability. Conditions apply.

The booking panel is available on every page of the site at all times; you can research your travel options and then easily book it through the booking panel always located on the left. To purchase a pass it’s as simple as; 1. Choosing the blue tab called “Passes” 2. Choose your category (adult or member/concession) 3. Select the pass you want and click Continue 4. The rest is simple. Enter your personal, contact and credit card details for payment and you’re on your way. SIMPLY ADD YOUR TRAVEL Greyhound has taken the extra step and made it even easier for you to book your travel. Once you’re registered with a pin number you can log onto greyhound.com.au and add or change travel sectors not yet passed as well as print out your ticket. To access your booking details; 1. Click on the yellow tab called “My Passes” 2. Enter your 7 digit booking number 3. Enter your 4 digit pin number and click continue 4. Next you will be taken to a screen where you can make changes; simply follow the prompts to alter your booking. Greyhound often has website specials, be sure to keep checking the site so you get the best deal. While you’re on the website check out Greyhound’s Facebook and become a fan, you can blog your trip, ask other fans their opinion on places, even meet new people to travel with.

Airlie Apartments Something for everyone! Airlie Apartments is the perfect base for your Whitsunday holiday. Our one, two and three-bedroom apartments are self-contained and fully airconditioned with each individual apartment having its own balcony so you can relax and soak up the sun. Airlie Apartments have fabulous views overlooking the Coral Sea and Abel Point Marina. Our quiet location is only a 300m walk to the town of Airlie Beach and if you are arriving at the Greyhound Bus Terminal, we would be happy to transfer you to the property complimentary! We have poolside BBQs, outdoor settings and deck chairs, or enjoy a game of pool or play the pinball machine. The onsite laundry is available from 9am–8pm so you can wash your clothes and prepare for your next journey. Our friendly receptionist can book all your tours to ensure you are on the tour you want to experience. The tour operators will greet you at our front door and if you are going sailing, leave your bags with us for when you return. All the apartments have Austar so you can catch up on all the news/sports from overseas. Come and see for yourself! For information and bookings call 07 4946 6222 or go to www.airlieapartments.com.au.

Images: Whitsundays Sailing Adventures

Whitsundays Sailing Adventures.com Quality sailing & diving adventures Whitsundays Sailing Adventures (WSA) is dedicated to offering world class, quality live-aboard sailing and diving adventures in the spectacular Whitsunday Islands of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park. Our vessels are owner-operated resulting in a focus on vessel and crew standards, fantastic food, personalised service and a truly individual and unique experience. WSA operates the most diverse fleet of live-aboard, crewed charter vessels in the region with multiple daily departures from Abel Point Marina, Airlie Beach. WSA cruises are Multi Award Winners in Adventure and Eco Tourism. Most recently Eco Tallships were awarded the 2009 Tourism Whitsundays Steve Irwin Award for best Eco Tourism Operator and WSA Sail & DiveCats won Best adventure Tourism Operator in the Tourism Whitsundays and Backpacking Queensland 2009 Awards. Visit www.whitsailing.com for more information and bookings.

Maxi Ragamuffin If you’re heading to Airlie Beach and the Whitsundays then you really should consider a day trip on this spectacular yacht. Maxi Ragamuffin has won the famous blue water classic – the Sydney to Hobart Yacht – Race three times. This yacht is big, fast comfortable and exhilarating to sail, and since 1994 Maxi Ragamuffin has been visiting two of the best day trip destinations that the Whitsundays has to offer. “Cruise 1” sails to Blue Pearl Bay every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday for snorkelling (included) and SCUBA Diving (optional extra). “Cruise 2” sails to the spectacular sands of Whitehaven Beach every, Thursday and Sunday. Both cruises include courtesy transfers from Airlie Beach to the departure point at Shute Harbour. Also included are morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea as well as all of your snorkelling gear at Blue Pearl Bay. The crew on this boat are absolutely terrific. The boat itself and the places they sail to are some of the best in the Whitsundays. The motto on Maxi Ragamuffin is “Make a great day perfect”. Look for our ad in this feature and call the operator direct to make a booking, or you can book through just about any travel agency or accommodation tour desk. Free call 1800 454 777. Summer 2010 55

PACKAGES

ALL IN 1 NICE LITTLE PACKAGE!!! P R IC E S

FROM:

$ 2 4 IO2N ESS

CONC

$ 269

, WANT IT ALL? WANT THE BEST OF OZ? DON T WANT THE HASSLE? Greyhound Australia has packaged some of the best travel and tour options across the country to provide customers with a truly unique Australian travel experience!

ADULT

EAST COASTER PACKAGE SYDNEY TO CAIRNS OR CAIRNS TO SYDNEY PACKAGE INCLUDES:

UP TO 90 DAYS

• Hop on, hop off travel between Sydney and Cairns in one direction • Blue Mountains Scenic Full Day Tour • Half Day Byron Bay Surf Lesson • 2 Day Fraser Island Tour • 3 Day Pride of Airlie Sail & Stay Tour • Great Barrier Reef Full Day Sailing Tour • Buy 1, get 1 free night accommodation in Cairns • Price: $1,115

SOUTHERN OUTBACK PACKAGE

QUEENSLAND ADVENTURER PACKAGE

ADELAIDE TO ALICE OR ALICE TO ADELAIDE

BRISBANE TO CAIRNS OR CAIRNS TO BRISBANE

PACKAGE INCLUDES: Uluru

UP TO 90 DAYS

• Hop on, hop off travel between Adelaide and Alice Springs in one direction • One night stop over at Radekas underground motel in Coober Pedy • 3 Day Rock Tour to Uluru • Price: $549

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

UP TO 90 DAYS

• Hop on, hop off travel between Brisbane and Cairns in one direction • Moreton Bay Day Tour • 2 Day Fraser Island Tour • Cairns Skyrail Trip • Great Barrier Reef Full Day Sailing Tour • Price: $899

ROCK THE HARBOUR PACKAGE

CROC STOPOVER PACKAGE

SYDNEY TO ALICE OR ALICE TO SYDNEY

DARWIN TO ALICE OR ALICE TO DARWIN

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

UP TO 90 DAYS

• Hop on, hop off travel between Sydney and Melbourne in one direction • 3 Day Great Ocean Road Tour from Melbourne to Adelaide • Hop on, hop off travel between Adelaide and Alice Springs • One night stop over at Radekas underground motel in Coober Pedy • 3 Day Rock Tour to Uluru • Price: $959

PACKAGE INCLUDES:

14 DAYS

• Hop on, hop off travel between Darwin and Alice Springs in one direction • One night all inclusive stay at Nitmiluk ‘Katherine’ Gorge Tent Village with dinner at the poolside kiosk or bistro and pancake breakfast • 3 Day Rock Tour to Uluru • Price: Adult $269 / Conc. $242

*A similar package is also available with departure from Melbourne from $869

TO BOOK OR TO FIND OUT MORE: YOUR LOCAL TERMINAL

greyhound.com . a u 56 OR

Summer 2010 TALK TO YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT

EXPLORE EXCHANGE EXPERIENCE

Reefjet – 20 years in operation Reefjet has been operating in the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park for more than 20 years so we are the “experts” with all the experience required to make your day not a good one but a great one! Whitehaven Beach & Islands Discovery Tour You will enjoy three magical destinations in one day. Visit one of the world’s best beaches, Whitehaven Beach and Hill Inlet Lookout (Whitsunday Island National Park) and one of the fantastic fringing reefs of the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park off Hook or Border Islands for snorkelling and diving. Enjoy the trip of a lifetime to one of the worlds’ best beaches in complete air conditioned comfort. Take a leisurely stroll along 6 kilometres of beautiful white silica sand, swim in the crystal clear waters, join in the beach games, or just relax and enjoy the beauty of the spectacular surrounds. All snorkelling activities are included. Diving is an optional extra and introductory or certified diving is available and can be booked onboard.

Phone: 07 4946 5366

What’s included: Courtesy coach transfers (local area); delicious tropical buffet lunch; complimentary tea and coffee; all snorkel and dive equipment; air conditioned lounge; comfortable seating; plenty of shade; top sundeck; all marine and national park fees. What to bring: Towel, swimsuit, hat, sunscreen, cash/credit card, camera, film. For more in formation call (07) 4946 5366 or visit the website at www.reefjet.com.au.

Mantaray Charters The Whitsundays All in One Day! Discover tropical paradise and experience the magic of the reef aboard Mantaray. View amazing Whitehaven Beach then snorkel and dive at Mantaray Bay … All in one day! Our eco-sensitive tour will whisk you to the best of the Whitsundays pristine locations. View amazing Whitehaven Beach, with its 7km stretch of white silica sand, from Hill Inlet Lookout and play in the turquoise crystal waters for up to three hours. Followed by one more superb snorkelling and diving location at Mantaray Bay. This bay encompasses a myriad of colourful corals and tropical fish. Scuba dive and snorkel in this fascinating marine wonderland, lie on the spacious sun-deck, swim in aqua-blue waters or simply feel the sand between your toes. Our national award-winning MV Mantaray is 54ft/16.4m in length, offering comfortable seating and dining facilities. Maximum of 38 passengers only. Your day includes; Air conditioned, courtesy local transfers, free morning and afternoon tea; Mediterranean-style buffet lunch; snorkelling equipment; free use of Coral Viewer and flotation devices; informative ecological presentation; toilet on board. Certified and Introductory diving available. DIVE and SNORKEL – TROPICAL ISLANDS. It’s your day to relax and enjoy. We offer professional and personalised and friendly service. Mantaray is a family operated and owned business. Also available for private charters, corporate, weddings and special occasions.Departs daily from Abel Point Marina, Airlie Beach, Whitsundays Qld. Phone (07) 4948 3711, email info@ mantaraycharters.com or visit www.mantaraycharters.com.

Tel: (07) 4948 3711

info@mantaraycharters.com www.mantaraycharters.com

Summer 2010 57

Kids 50% OFF Australia Wide!

TO BOOK:

1300 473 946

GREYHOUND

greyhound.com.au

YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT G R E Y H O U N D T E R M I N A L 58â&#x20AC;&#x192;

Special only available on selected passes. For validity of the offer and for full terms and

Summerconditions 2010 visit greyhound.com.au

Awesome Adventures Oz

Tourism Queensland

The Whitsundays is one of those places where you‘ll have an incredible experience with memories to last a lifetime. The picture-perfect setting, heaps of other travellers to enjoy the experience with and loads of cool activities to maximise your time in this beautiful part of the world. Get excited, you’ll be in for an awesome experience! Snorkel or dive the Great Barrier Reef, sail the turquoise blue waters of the Coral Sea that surrounds the Whitsunday Islands, visit famous Whitehaven Beach and laze the day away on a tropical Island. These are all “must do’s” in the Whitsundays. Awesome Adventures Oz wraps up all these great activities in an easy package that leaves you with enough money to have a good time at the bar as well! Designed for backpackers and alternative travellers, the packages include trips to the pontoon at Knuckle Reef Lagoon – one of the regions most acclaimed Great Barrier Reef sites, sailing adventures onboard ‘Camira’ visiting Whitehaven Beach.

Image: Cruise Whitsundays

Party the night away at Airlie Beach or stay at Long Island where you can chill on a beach hammock or get active and explore the islands many bush walks. Check out www.awesomeoz.com for more info or see your travel agent.

Ocean Rafting Each Ocean Rafting day includes a visit to Whitehaven Beach, pristine snorkelling reefs and stunning National Park walks. Award winning Ocean Rafting has very special permits that allow us to visit and snorkel in natural and protected areas within the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park.

Your day will include courtesy transfers, optional buffet-style lunch, snorkelling equipment and reef and island naturalist talks. Make the fun choice and enjoy the ride of your life with Ocean Rafting telephone 07 4946 6848 or visit www.oceanrafting.com.

Experience the two best day cruises in the Whitsunday Islands on this awesome combo deal!

Combo DEAL!

GREAT BARRIER REEF ADVENTURES

Cruise aboard ‘Seaflight’ to Queensland’s most innovative reef pontoon. Awesome coral and stunning fish. Fun packed pontoon - giant water slide, underwater observatory, snorkelling, diving, semi-sub & an all you can eat buffet lunch.

CAMIRA SAILING ADVENTURE

Experience a day of excitement on board ‘Camira’, one of the world’s fastest sailing catamarans. Explore beautiful Whitehaven Beach, swim, snorkel and enjoy an all inclusive BBQ lunch and drinks from 11am. Just an awesome day on the water!

CkEr priCE CkpA

$239pp* SAVE $125

...beaut beach!

for backpackers & alternative travellers

*Available only on presentation of a valid Student, Peterpans, YHA, ISIC, VIP or NOMADS card. Valid to 31/06/10

SEE YOUR BACKPACKER TRAVEL DESK

www.awesomeoz.com

AAO2372

Our vessels carry at most twenty five passengers, allowing you to experience tropical paradise and the pleasure of a small group. Ocean Rafting visits the ‘wild side’ of the Whitsunday Islands with beautiful natural scenery brimming with marine, bird and animal life. The vessels were originally designed and built as rescue crafts and are rigid inflatable boats driven by 450hp engines.

Summer 2010 59

Overnight sail and dive adventures on Wings 2, Wings 3 and Emperor wings Wings Diving Adventures encompasses so many different things for the up-to-the-minute traveller – fast vessel, fantastic action packed itinerary, great food and modern onboard facilities. There’s loads of space for a relaxed social atmosphere with a generous saloon and huge fore deck. Live-aboard accommodation is spacious and comfortable with all rooms being fully air-conditioned. We have four fun and friendly crew to make you feel at home while you sit back and experience the thrill of stable sailing. Our itinerary also includes a stop over at spectacular Whitehaven Beach and a short bush walk up to the “must see” Hill Inlet lookout. Don’t forget our famous Aussie BBQ under the Stars while chatting on deck with 25 new onboard friends. Both introductory and certified divers can enjoy awesome dive sites. No experience necessary for sandy beach entries onto sheltered coral reefs for beginners, to challenging swim-throughs for experienced divers. Diving can be decided onboard at each dive site, you can dive as much as you desire. Dive facilities include onboard compressors for unlimited diving, a fast tender for close drop-off and pick-up and spacious organised setup for the dive kit. Dive package prices are fantastic value with all dives guided and all equipment included in package costs. There is LED blue underwater lighting to attract nocturnal marine life including dolphins. Wings vessels have the latest onboard digital cameras and housing to ensure a lifetime of underwater memories. You will love our huge Plasma TVs for daily photo slide show fun.

Summer 2010

Spectacular diving including: Turtles, Giant Trevally, Maori Wrasse, Gropers, Parrot Fish, Coral Trout, Potato Cod, Rays, Moray Eels, Lion Fish, Reef Sharks, Nudibranchs, Sea Stars, Giant Clams and hundreds of different schools of brightly coloured fish. A huge highlight for all guests are graceful Manta Rays and impressive Hump Back Whales during migration season. We also have a three-night vessel Emperor Wings, which is custom built for outer reef diving. This tour allows you to explore the Whitsundays as well as exclusive diving at our private mooring at Bait Reef. With so many amazing sites to visit such as Manta Ray Drop-off, Stepping Stones and Paradise Lagoon, this is a dive experience not to be forgotten. A huge highlight for the outer reef is the night and deep dives onboard. Scuba diving is paramount on this tour with our enthusiastic and experienced dive instructors. Emperor Wings has unique extra features like the hydraulic lifting dive platform, modern diver safety SOS emergency system, LCD screens for onboard photo editing and at the end of the day you can laze in the heated Jacuzzi. Our two-night tours depart almost every day at 1pm. Our three-night tour departs on Tuesdays at 1pm. We pride ourselves on giving guests a comfortable and interactive experience while seeing the Whitsunday Islands and look forward to having you onboard. For more information visit www.whitsundaydive.com.au or email info@wingsdiving.com.

Picture: Champions Brock Experience

Emus Beach Resort & Backpackers Just over a year old and fast becoming one of the new destinations in Australia, Emus Beach Resort provides that touch of class that only a new budget resort can. Now a Nomads affiliate we are already in Lonely Planet and winner of the Best Backpackers Tourism Award for Central Queensland and Southern Great Barrier Reef. With the new Greyhound service running to the door it has now become possible to travel direct to the Capricorn Coast and then on to Great Keppel Island with minimal fuss and cost. Situated across the road from the beautiful beach that overlooks Great Keppel Island, and only half an hour from Rockhampton, Emus Beach Resort is the ideal destination to experience the best of the Southern Great Barrier Reef and Central Queensland. Enjoy resort-style accommodation and facilities from only $24 pppn, fantastic local sights and friendly staff that love to meet people from all walks of life. Emus Beach Resort offers 12 brand new motel-style rooms with private ensuites, balconies overlooking the swimming pool and flat screen TVs. These rooms accommodate doubles, triples, quads and can also be dorm shared rooms with a maximum of four people in each. Emus also offers dorm rooms with shared facilities for those on a tighter budget, with a maximum of three in each room.

Champions Brock Experience Champions Brock Experience is the latest award-winning attraction to open on the CQ Capricorn Coast. What began as a private car collection of owner Peter Champion, at the insistence of his friend Peter Brock, the collection opened to the public in Dec 2007. Champions Brock Experience is the largest collection of Peter Brock road and race cars in the country. Housed in a unique setting, you can view this collection by general admission, guided tour or join us for the amazing Light and Sound Show, which includes a guided tour. Experience the life of this Australian sporting Icon through his cars. Recently voted winner of 2009 Significant Tourist Attraction in the regional tourism awards, Champions Brock Experience will not disappoint. Open six days week, Mon-Sat. For tour times and pricing contact 1300 79 84 05 or visit www.championsbrockexperience.com.au.

All the rooms surround a large swimming pool, entertainment deck and licensed bar. Emus Beach Resort has onsite parking, in-house laundry facilities, an Internet cafe (wifi), a large communal kitchen, dining and TV area, as well as a travel desk that is renowned for going out of their way to help you with all your travel needs. Emus can also organise tours to enjoy the local attractions, with one of the best being Koorana Crocodile Farm. Get up close and personal with a 1,000kg crocodile and watch the experts hand-feed the giant beasts. You can also hold one of the smaller crocs yourself. The friendly staff at Emus are more than happy to help you in any way they can. Just call 1800 333 349 or email mandy@ emusbeachresort.com to book your stay. The most common comments on departure: “This is the best backpackers that I have ever stayed at” or “This is more like a hotel for Backpackers”.

New direct greyhound service from rockhampton to emus beach resort

2009 Winner Significant Tourist Attraction

Great keppel island packages Beds from $24 per night Max 4 in a room No bunk beds Swimming pool Bar & internet (wifi) Free linen

FREECALL 1800 333 349 Phone 0749396111

92 Pattison Street ,EMu Park, Capricorn Coast

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Bundaberg, Agnes Water & 1770 Photos courtesy of Tourism Queensland

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Summer 2010

1. Bustard Head Lighthouse, Town of 1770 2. Mantaray, Lady Elliott Island 3. Green Turtle

EURIMBULA NATIONAL PARK

Bundaberg Bundaberg is located at the southern tip of the Great Barrier Reef, and experiences one of the world’s most enviable climate’s. Bundaberg is a known for the kindness of its residents, its surrounding beauty and it’s Rum! The Bundaberg region is located in the heart of a rich sugar and horticultural belt supported by a growing manufacturing sector. In fact, Bundaberg produces one fifth of Queensland’s sugar crop and the city is surrounded by a green sea of rich sugar cane and many farms growing Australia’s finest small crops. The city plays a significant role in global manufacture and industry, being home of ‘the famous Aussie Spirit’, Bundaberg Rum, leading drinks manufacturer Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, diversified agricultural corporation Bundaberg Sugar, and many others of international recognition. Bundaberg Rum offers regular daily tours of their worldclass distillery, as does Bundaberg Brewed Drinks through the Big Barrel, their interpretive visitor centre.

Round Hill

SEVENTEEN SEVENTY AGNES WATER

Miriam Vale

DEEP WATER NATIONAL PARK Deep Water

PLACES TO GO …

Rules Beach

• Mon Repos Beach • Southern Great Barrier Reef • Bundaberg Botaninc Gardens • Lady Musgrave Island • Woodgate National Park

Moore Park Burnett Heads Mon Repos Bargara

Lake Monduran

Highway 1

BUNDABERG

Elliott Heads

Gin Gin Wallaville Woodgate WOODGATE NATIONAL PARK

Mount Perry

Childers

MOUNT WALSH NATIONAL PARK

Visitors are well catered for in this dynamic city with a wide choice of lodgings, pubs, shopping, tourist attractions and eateries. The “Whaling Wall” mural, painted by world-renowned environmental artist Wyland, is a dominant 7-storey landmark in the city centre and provides a year-round reminder of our nearby marine visitors. Every year, humpback whales pass close to Bundaberg during their annual migration en route to the northern end of Fraser Island. Whale watching cruises operate from Port Bundaberg in-season and whales can also be seen from Lady Elliot Island. There’s no need to travel all the way to Cairns to enjoy the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef. The most spectacular parts of the southern reef can be found around Lady Elliot and Lady Musgrave Islands. The reef can be seen on fine, calm days by snorkelling just a metre or two from the shore. For more information visit www.bundabergregion.info or call (07) 4153 8888.

Agnes Water & the Town of 1770 Agnes Water and it’s sister township of 1770 offer a range of activities and holiday ideas – from relaxing at the beach, four-wheel driving through rugged coastal national parks, and estuary, beach and deep sea fishing – to enjoying a soft adventure tour aboard an amphibious LARC vessel. Agnes Water is Queensland’s northern-most surf beach and is the last of a line of beautiful, unspoilt beaches that sweep up the coast from Bundaberg. Agnes Water and the Town of 1770 are also one of the closest points on the mainland to the outer Great Barrier Reef. Agnes Water offers accommodation, shops and eateries and services – all with a beachside atmosphere. The Agnes Water Museum houses local history with interesting information of Cook and his voyage. Many architect-designed homes dot the cabbage palm covered hillsides all with a look reminiscent of the tropics of far north Queensland. The surfing fraternity have long visited Agnes Water and a major surfing event, the 1770 Longboard Classic, is held in March each year. From Agnes Water, four-wheel drive trails extend south into Deepwater National Park and north into Eurimbula National Park, opening up coastal wilderness for camping and fishing. The Town Of 1770 is a picturesque seaside village surrounded on three sides by the Coral Sea and Bustard Bay. Historic as the second landing site of Lieutenant James Cook and the crew of the Endeavour in May 1770, the area is rich in wildlife and natural beauty and offers scenic vistas in every direction. A completely sealed and tarred road reaches the Town of 1770 from Bundaberg, 120 kilometres to the south, with a partially sealed and tarred road access the town from Miriam Vale in the north.

Scooteroo Scooteroo, the original and only chopper tour. The area and surround, made for chopper tours, quiet safe roads, no traffic. You really get to experience the exhilaration of riding a motor bike. Automatic, no gears, just twist and go. Five years experience of safely getting you rolling. All you need is a car licence, learners or provisional, as long as you have one back home, that’s OK. Jewel in the Crown on the East Coast, stunning views. Through the hills of Agnes Water, down and along the foreshore, historic Town of 1770. Get up real close to kangaroos and wallabies in the wild. One of the few places on the East Coast where the sun sets over the ocean. Settle down with a bowl of wedges, sweet chilli sauce/sour cream to experience beautiful sunset. Three hours (60km) of the best fun. Big bang for your money, best value tour on the East Coast. Most common comments: Best thing I have done since been in Aussie; Well organized and safe. Unique and special. Book direct on (07) 4974 7697 to SAVE!

www.scooterrootours.com

Ride your own Chopper

(If you can ride a bicycle you can ride a chopper) All you need is a car licence (Learner’s OK) An exhilarating 60km ride of the surrounding area. Scenic views, up close with kangaroos and wallabies. Sunset over the ocean.

21 Bicentennial Drive, Agnes Water P: (07) 4974 7697 Summer 2010 63

Cool Bananas – Backpackers Lodge 1770

Surrounded by three national parks and located in Springs Road, Agnes Water, Cool Bananas is a five-minute easy stroll to shops and many stinger-free beaches. This first government-approved and purpose-built hostel offers you, the traveller, the opportunity to relax and recharge your batteries in spacious common areas and rooms, shady subtropical gardens, chill out in large, comfy hammocks and beanbags or grab a cold beer from our newly established bar. Settle into the ‘no fast moves’ lifestyle this area is known for. Friendly owner-managed staff well versed in the stuff to explore here are on hand to divulge the secrets of this unique part of Queensland. Spectacular sunset tours and eco tours are all on offer here for you to enjoy. Cool Bananas is the only hostel in town with its own airplane! Enjoy scenic joy flights, aerobatic thrills and spills or fly in for a two-night national park campout with LARC extraction. These are newly established tours with limited seats so bookings are essential.

Greyhound NOW dropping off direct at Cool Bananas Hostel.

The hostel offers free videos, free boogie boards, free transfers to 1770, free tea and coffee plus more. We also offer the cheapest surf lessons on the east coast at $22 per student (groups of four) coached by quality local instructors. Discounts on reef trips and other activities available to guests from our in-house travel desk. Deepsea fishing tours are also available for the not-so-faint-hearted. Or if that’s not your thing then try a hand at ocean kayaks or Scooteroo. The Lonely Planet Australia guide book lists Cool Bananas as the only hostel to stay in while visiting the area. Guide books quotes, “somewhat of a Shangri-la for backpackers”. Cool Bananas recently received the thumbs up from Let’s Go as being “hands down the friendliest new hostel on the east coast”. So come and check the area out and stay in an award-winning environment. Comments from recent guest Melanie Crowe: “Most definitely the coolest hostel I have visited in my eight months of travelling. Friendly, relaxed, great staff, great rooms, clean and great value.” Cool Bananas is definitely the backpackers choice. So give us a call on 1800 227 660 to book your place in paradise. Or check us out on www.coolbananas.net.au. Daily Greyhound pick-up and drop-off service available direct to our front door! VIP, YHA and most Backpacker cards accepted.

Lady Musgrave Cruises – Book Online BACKPACKERS LODGE

Just five hours drive north of Brisbane, Lady Musgrave Cruises is the closest daily cruise service to the Great Barrier Reef from Brisbane. Experience all the Great Barrier Reef has to offer at Lady Musgrave Island and Lagoon! Travel with Lady Musgrave Cruises to Lady Musgrave Island Reef, departing daily from the Town of 1770.

You’re welcome to come & hang with our bunch ... check out the rap from Lonely Planet & Let’s Go on this beautiful region. Now, its finally time to ...

Enjoy a combination of a tropical paradise situated on a living reef with a deepwater lagoon, the only navigable lagoon of its kind on the Great Barrier Reef. Enjoy a relaxing day as you spend over five hours exploring the wonders of the reef.

DISCOVER 1770 FREE CALL 1800 227 660 www.coolbananas.net.au has to offer

Lady Musgrave IsLand & CoraL Lagoon

advert Present thisa FREE to receive Camera er at Underw booking. upon .

Southern Reef Major Tourism Award Winners

apply Conditions

reef coral island lagoon pontoon turtles colourful coral

Freecall 1800 63 1770

Phone: 07 4974 9077 Fax: 07 4974 9505 email: info@lmcruises.com.au Web: www.lmcruises.com.au Greyhound

Learn 2 Surf The best tuition Great location No age limits Value for money

Just bring yourself and a towel – it’s easier than you think Certificate, stickers and vouchers included in lesson price

07 4974 9072

www.reef2beachsurf.com 64

Summer 2010

Book and travel from Town of 1770 marina or connect with our daily service from Bundaberg. The Great Barrier Reef has never been closer. Contact Lady Musgrave Barrier Reef Cruises, call 1800 63 1770 or book online at www.lmcruises.com.au.

Learn 2 Surf with Reef 2 Beach

Booking Office

1770 Marina - Town of 1770

departs daily From 1770 Marina - daily Bus Connections From Bundaberg

Lady Musgrave Cruises offers an experience like no other! Set up base on the Southern Great Barrier Reef’s only floating pontoon, swim and snorkel year-round without stinger suits in the protected lagoon and view some of the most colourful coral on the Great Barrier Reef. Do a spot of reef fishing or scuba diving, take a semisubmarine tour or just relax and unwind along the pristine white sand beaches as you take a guided island walk while enjoying the beautiful native Pisonia Forest of Lady Musgrave Island.

Want to learn from the best? Try real surfers, accredited by the Australian Coaching Council to teach real surfing. Learn to Surf with the original and the best premier Surf School on the Coast. 20,000 plus students have enjoyed the fun and laughs while taking their first steps at the famous Agnes Water Beach. All equipment is provided for you – specially-designed soft surfboards, wet shirts or wetsuits and plenty of laughs. So all you need bring with you is a towel. And you don’t have to go far. Walk to the patrolled beach from backpackers and shops – no travel required. Pick-up and drop-off can be arranged. Surfing has no age limits and it’s easier than you think. Anyone from 8 to 80 – or older – is welcome to join our group lessons. Private lessons can be arranged. Most people stand up on their first lesson. Getting the right advice from the beginning is the key. For the best value for money, look no further than Surfing Queensland surf schools. We are recognised as industry leaders, competitively priced and don’t cut corners. Our Surf Pack includes three hours tuition, a certificate, stickers and discount vouchers – all for just $17. Photographers can be arranged at a nominal price. Visit www.reef2beachsurf.com or call 07 4974 9072.

s ’ d n a l Queens t secret p e k t s be

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South East Queensland

1 2

Photos courtesy Moreton Island Tours, Tourism Queensland

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Summer 2010

1. Fireworks over Brisbane River 2. Natural Bridge, Springbrook National Park 3. Sandboarding on Moreton Island 4. The Broadwater, Gold Coast

Queensland’s Sunshine Coast Located in the heart of the Sunshine Coast, only one hour north of Brisbane, Mooloolaba offers a wide variety of activities, ranging from a quiet walk or swim on the long sandy patrolled beach, followed by a coffee on the Esplanade or a big night out visiting some of the 10 bars along the walking strip. Mooloolaba is the social hub of the Sunshine Coast, offering the best of both worlds, beach and sun by day and party by night.

Pictures: Tourism Queensland

Mooloolaba Beach Viewing Deck

Aptly named the Sunshine Coast due to the extended periods of clear blue sky and sunshine experienced for nine months of the year, the Sunshine Coast has long been a favourite holiday destination to local Queenslanders and other Australian and International tourists. The Sunshine Coast is located one easy hours drive from Brisbane International Airport. The region stretches for some 50 kilometres from Caloundra in the South to Noosa in the North. Known for colourful markets and festivals, top class restaurants, beautiful beaches and lush hinterland, the Sunshine Coast is an exciting and interesting destination for holiday makers.

Mooloolaba – Just come as you are! Welcome to sun-kissed beaches, boutique shopping, atmospheric dining and crazy night life. In Mooloolaba – just come as you are!

If you plan on visiting Australia Zoo while you’re on the Sunshine Coast, Mooloolaba is a great place to base yourself. With a two night stay the Mooloolaba Beach Backpackers offers a $20 discount off entry as well as a daily courtesy bus You can also choose to have a free photo taken with a Koala. While staying at the Mooloolaba Beach Backpackers take advantage of their free breakfast daily, free surf and paddle boards as well as free bike and kayak hire. They also offer a free Saturday night BBQ. We’ve heard this is a great deal that you don’t want to miss out on while you’re around this part of beautiful South East Queensland. Other activities around the Mooloolaba area include scuba diving the HMAS Brisbane as well as the world-famous shark dive at Underwater World. Located two blocks from the Beach this modern and renovated purpose-built facility is definitely where it’s at in terms of budget accommodation in Mooloolaba. Shimmering sands, glittering waters and a serene mood combine to create an enticing, exciting and exotic location. Come and experience this place for yourself. Mooloolaba welcomes both international and local visitors to sample the natural charms and rich culture of the Sunshine Coast. Just come as you are!

mooloolaba Sunshine Coa

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Blue Dolphin Marine Tours

Noosa Backpackers Resort Blue Dolphin Marine Tours Blue Dolphin Marine Tours is Hervey Bay’s longest running and leading sailing tour operator. Peter Lynch (owner/operator) has over 24 years experience with marine life. 14 years with Seaworld, a summer season with the Australian Antarctic Division and 10 years as a dolphin and whale watch operator here in Hervey Bay. Dolphin Cruise 8.30am – 12.30pm: Bottlenose and Indo-Pacific Humpback dolphins, Dugongs, Turtles and Sea birds. A half day cruise of the Great Sandy Strait including morning tea. 95% success rate of seeing the dolphins. Champagne Sunset Sail 5.15pm – 6.45pm Summer: Perfect way to enjoy Fraser Island and the spectacular sunsets across the Great Sandy Strait. 90 minute sail all inclusive of champagne, beer or soft drink. A light platter of cheese, vegetables and dip. Full Day Whale Watch: High quality – low numbers – multi-lingual crew. An intimate whale watching experience awaits you. Tour includes morning tea, lunch and afternoon tea and a complimentary beer or wine with lunch. For more information, email bluedolphintours@bigpond.com or visit www.bluedolphintours.com.au.

Noosa Backpackers Resort is the free destination of Australia. FREE surfboard hire, FREE kayak hire. FREE linen, FREE swimming pool, FREE courtesy bus, FREE tour advise, FREE movies, FREE Fox Sports, FREE body board hire, FREE national park. The Family run business situated on the famous Noosa River stretch of famous cafés and restaurants. The gateway to Fraser Island is the perfect place to chill with class. Noosa is one of your last chances heading north to get in that last Aussie surfing experience or take in the magic of our hinterland or everglades experience. Don’t miss Noosa or Noosa Backpackers Resort, the premier Aussie destination. Freecall 1800 626 673 or visit www.noosabackpackers.com.

Pippies Beachhouse Pippies Beachhouse is a small family-owned and operated hostel in the heart of Rainbow Beach. Kick back and relax in our chilled out atmosphere, we have small dorms and double room accommodation as well as a communal kitchen, BBQ facilities, secure FREE parking, FREE luggage storage, swimming pool, aircon, TV lounge, FREE DVD and body board hire, FREE breakfast daily and FREE tea and coffee. Pippies is just a two minute walk to the main street and beach. Surrounded by the Cooloola National Park you can take a walk to the amazing Carlo Sandblow to view marine life and the beautiful coloured sands. There are plenty of adventure activities to keep your adrenalin going such as surfing, sea kayaking with wild dolphins, sky diving, hang-gliding, para-gliding, dive with sharks or take a ferry ride to hand-feed wild dolphins, or just enjoy the sun, sand and surf.

DOLPHIN TOURS N O V E M B E R - J U LY

10.5m Sailing Catamaran Dolphin Tours ½ day tour with morning tea Only 20 people max

Champagne Sunset Tours Departs from marina

BOOKINGS & ENQUIRIES

(07) 4124 9600

bluedolphintours@bigpond.com

We specialise in self-drive tag-along tours to Fraser Island. Our tour is a 3 day/2 night camping safari staying at a private campsite K’Gari, just a short walk from the beach, with hot showers and toilets, BBQ facilities, plus a chance to experience Aboriginal culture around the nightly campfire. All permits, barge pass, fuel, insurance, ice and gas are included. Meet your group the day before departure to do your shopping for the trip, then let our guides show you world heritage listed Fraser Island, where you can experience beach driving yourself if you wish. We visit Lake McKenzie, Eli Creek, Indian Head, Champagne Pools, Central Station, Wangoolba Creek and Lake Allom. Book directly with Pippies and get 10% off, see you soon! Call 1800 425 356 or visit www.PippiesBeachHouse.com.au.

4-8 share dorm & double dorms Free breakfast daily Air-conditioning, Swimming pool, Secure parking

From $24 per night

The Gateway to Fraser Island

Meet and chill with Noosa Backpackers Resort

Freecall 1800 626 673 • www.noosabackpackers.com 68

Summer 2010

1800 425 356 22 Spectrum Street 3-day/2-night guided self-drive Rainbow Beach, QLD 4581 tours to Fraser Island, departing daily, private 4WD hire. www.pippiesbeachhouse.com.au Guided 1 & 2-day tours.

Aquavue Cafe Watersports

Gidd-ee up Horse Trail Rides REAL trail riding on a Quarter Horse. Morning tea and two-course lunch included by the pool. New fully-self contained unit sleeps seven at $14pp. Maximum of six riders, beginners welcome. Ride cost $99 half day 07 4129 6535 www.giddeeuphorsetrailrides.com

, Enzo s on the Beach

Next Backpackers

A unique beach-front café, situated right on the best swimming beach in Scarness, Hervey Bay. Enjoy a distinctive blend of Italian coffee and dine on delicious café cuisine while taking in the uninterrupted sea views of Hervey Bay and Fraser Island. Hire a kayak or a stand up paddle board, book a kite surf lesson or simply lay back on a sun lounge and soak up the sunshine at Scarness Beach.

1800 102 989 www.nextbackpackers.com.au

07 4124 6375 www.enzosonthebeach.com.au

Cool Dingo Tours

With a 2 or 3 day ranger-guided Cool Dingo tour you will see it all and get absolute top value from your Fraser experience. No tents, no sleeping bags, no cooking, no driving, no worries. Our experienced guides take all the hassle out of managing tides and navigation – leaving you time to just enjoy! You’ll discover all Fraser’s iconic spots and return to your lodge-style accommodation each night for a refreshing shower and buffet dinner. The famous Dingo Bar watering hole is a great place to relive the day’s adventures and meet travellers from all over. Price: 3 day/2 night tour $396 pp Freecall: 1800 828 370 quad-share www.cooldingotour.com all inclusive.

5 Kruger Court, Hervey Bay 07 4125 6612 www.fraser4wdhire.com.au

07 4125 5528 www.aquavue.com.au

Next Backpackers offers you a home away from home feeling, from the moment you arrive our friendly staff are there to make your stay as comfortable as possible. We have a lounge bar downstairs with a pool table, a cinema room with over 600 movies to choose from ,we have 24 hour global gossip internet café and wireless throughout the hostel. All of our rooms are fully air-conditioned. We are just 50m away from the safe swimming waters of Hervey Bay, with Café Shops Clubs and Restaurants all within a 5 min walk. Stay 3 Nights Pay for 2 Valid Oct / Nov 2010 Present this voucher”

Fraser Explorer Tours Join us for a 1 or 2 day fun-filled adventure to discover the best of World Heritage listed Fraser Island. Visit all of Fraser’s major beauty spots such as beautiful Lake McKenzie with time for a swim, marvel at the ancient rainforest at Central Station, drive along the amazing 75 Mile Beach highway and spot dingoes, birdlife and whales off the coast in season. Tours depart daily. Overnight tours are all inclusive of meals and accommodation at Eurong Beach Resort. Price: 2 day /1 night tour $309pp quad share. Day tours from $165pp. Freecall: 1800 828 370 www.fraserexplorertours.com.au

Fraser Magic 4WD Hire Four-wheel drive hire for Fraser Island. Camping and accommodation packages also available. Competitively priced two-person vehicles to larger Landrover Defenders that seat five to eight people.

Aquavue Café Watersports is the premier destination for action, fun and adventure on the Fraser Coast. Enjoy water sports of every kind – hire jet skis, kayaks, sailing catamarans, fishing boats and four-wheel bike cruisers. They offer the Big Banana ride, water skiing, wake and knee boarding and fishing charters as well as tours, safaris and adventure packages for the ‘experience seekers’ and adrenaline junkies. Aquavue offers an extensive menu for breakfast, lunch and morning and afternoon teas to compliment the best coffee in the bay.

Freedom Whale Watch + Dive Charters Cruise the protected waters of Hervey Bay aboard Freedom III for Whale Watching between July and November or our Day on the Bay Cruise to Fraser Island Pearls outside whale season. Also available for private charters and diving. Cruises from $80pp Freecall 1300 879 960 www.freedomwhalewatch.com.au

www.frasercoastholidays.info

www.adventurefrasercoast.com.au

Summer 2010 69

Welcome to the

skydive

With so much to do around the Fraser Coast, it’s worth spending a few days relaxing, seeing the whales and exploring this beautiful region. In Hervey Bay, from July to November, you can watch humpbacks frolic in the calm blue waters up close and personal, and there is also the 40 kilometres of pristine beaches for you to explore. The clear tranquil waters of the Great Sandy Strait provide a perfect backdrop to hire a houseboat or sail a yacht and uncover the host of amazing bird and marine life. Escape the hustle and bustle of life and experience the Fraser Coast – because nothing compares to nature.

heli charter kite surf

On the Fraser Coast adrenalin pumping action is always just around the corner. Take in Fraser Island from a completely different angle as you jump into one of the most beautiful skydive locations in the world. Get some serious air while taking in a kite surfing lesson. Make your own waves on a jet ski, hit the rugged Aussie bush on a horse trail adventure or grab a rod and join the professionals for the thrill of world-class game fishing. With so much to see and do, the Fraser Coast is truly Australia’s best nature-based adventure play ground!

Why the Fraser Coast? It is no secret that the Fraser Coast has been blessed with some of Australia’s leading natural attractions, including two World Heritage Listed areas, Fraser Island and Lady Elliot Island, as well as the best whale watching experience in the world. What isn’t as well known is how much there is to do on the Fraser Coast, once the major icons have been dealt with! Jet ski tours, camel safaris, helicopter rides, sailing, the options are endless. You can spend days experiencing the thrill of skydiving, 4WD driving or kite surfing, or enjoy a more laid back style in snorkelling, diving, horse riding or spend an afternoon fishing from

dolphin cruises bike hire 70

Summer 2010

Fraser Coast

Things to d o?

the Urangan Pier. Topped off with outstanding backpacker style accommodation, pubs and clubs, why wouldn’t you extend your stay on the Fraser Coast?

Fraser Island Fraser Island is nature at its awe-inspiring best, combining a remarkable collection of environments. Drive along the highway of sand on the ocean beaches or explore the sandy tracks that lead through thick forest to secret lakes, hidden in subtropical rainforest, their gassy surfaces reflecting the vegetation and deep blue sky. There are many different aspects to Fraser Island, but the aweinspiring beauty of Lake Mackenzie makes it the most visited natural site on the island. It is a ‘perched’ lake, which means it contains only rainwater, no groundwater, is not fed by streams and does not flow to the ocean. The sand here is pure, white silica and is not only beautiful to look at but feels beautifully soft to walk on. The blues and greens of the lake are endlessly fascinating and it’s well worth getting up early to look across it in the soft light of dawn. For more information please visit www.FraserCoastHolidays.info or www.AdventureFraserCoast.com.au.

sea kayak

• Go horse ri ding in some rugged Aussie • Take a jets bush land ki tour to Fra ser Island • Thrilling sp eed boat ride s • Learn to kit e surf • Skydiving to see Fraser Is land from ab • Helicopter ove Scenic flight tours • Trike tours around the F raser Coast • Diving and Snorkeling • Dolphin wa tching sailing tours •G o fishing •G o on a came l safari •R emote tour of pristine W estern side o Fraser Island f • Swim in cry stal clear fre shwater lake • Trek throug s h ancient rain fo re s ts • Spot turtles , manta rays a n d dugongs • Whale Watc hing (Jul – N ov)

scuba diving

Summer 2010 71

Australia Zoo turns 40! Australia Zoo burst into action in 1992 when the Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin and his wife Terri took over management of the zoo. Established in 1970 by the Irwin family, Australia Zoo is continuing to build Steve’s dream, and this year, our 40th anniversary, is the best time to come and check out the size of it! Formally known as the Beerwah Reptile Park, the once four acre reptile park is now a 70 acre entertainment mecca, with over 1,000 animals and is Australia’s Number One Tourist Attraction!* You can get up close and personal to our gorgeous wildlife and check out our spectacular Wildlife Warriors show in the world famous Australia Zoo Crocoseum and you’ll see our motto in action – conservation through exciting education! Cuddle a koala, feed our elephants, see the tigers play, have a snake slither up to you, watch a crocodile launch itself from the water’s edge, take a tour of the world’s largest wildlife hospital, enjoy a Bindi Burger at the Feeding Frenzy Food Court or shop in our award winning retail stores! Crikey! Our friendly staff sporting the famous khaki will help you learn more about the importance of conserving our precious wildlife. All over the world the colour khaki is recognised as Steve’s signature colour. But khaki is more than a colour – it’s an attitude; a stand to do something positive in our world, and a passion to make a difference. Australia Zoo continues each day to build Steve’s dream, and what better day to celebrate Steve’s life, vision and passion this year than Steve Irwin Day 15 November! Come and celebrate our 40th birthday with us – and join us as we continue Steve Irwin’s legacy. *Australian Tourism Awards

Summer 2010

Summer 2010â&#x20AC;&#x192; 73

Moreton Island Adventures Brisbane’s best kept secret is fast becoming an icon of Brisbane Moreton Island is a natural sand island and the third largest in the world! Consisting of 97% National park, Moreton Island is only 35km from Brisbane CBD and has an amazing range of activities from the relaxing to the extreme. Activities include sand boarding down 45m sand dunes, walking through untouched wildness, hiking to the island’s summit for 360° views all while experiencing the natural flora and fauna along the way. Or try snorkelling around and through 15 sunken ship wrecks, 4WD through national parks on ever-changing sand tracks, fishing off the amazing beaches with a beer in hand, swimming and lazing at the beautiful fresh water Blue Lagoon, covered in silky silica sand, surfing the breakers on the eastern beach or just lay on the beach and read a book. Explore the historic remnants of Moreton Island such as the military bunkers, cemetery and Queensland’s first lighthouse. Moreton Island’s lighthouse is also the best land viewing point in Queensland for the Southern Humpback Whales as they migrate each year. You might also see Dolphins, Dugongs, Manta Rays and Turtles across the bay. Come for a day or stay for a week at the Moreton Island Eco Village or private beach villas. Alternatively, camp at one of the many national parks camping grounds. Moreton Island Adventures has four types of tours to Moreton Island and they guarantee to run tours seven days a week. Call 07 3909 3397 or visit www.MoretonIslandAdventures.com.au.

Summer 2010

Brisbane & Brisbane with YHA The Queensland capital aces the double act of vibrant cosmopolitan city with laid-back country town charm. Shopaholics, culture vultures, gourmets, action junkies, party people … Brisbane has something to suit everyone. Brisbane City YHA recently underwent a state-of-the-art revamp and is the newest budget accommodation in the CBD. This award-winning backpacker hostel offers guests the full ‘Australia Experience’, with themed accommodation facilities promoting the iconic experiences of Australia; city, rainforest, outback, reef and beach – a truly inspiring place to rest your weary head! Facilities include a swimming pool, on-site Drifters Bar & Bistro, self-catering kitchen, wireless internet, TV lounge, games room with Nintendo Wii, pool table, secure parking, and tour desk. Choose from a range of double, twin, family and multi-share rooms, many with en-suite bathrooms and some with stunning views over the Brisbane River. Overnight accommodation starts from just $29 per night in a six-bed shared room. Stay two nights and you can get your third night FREE, when you stay before 20 December 2010. Why not combine a city break with an island getaway to magical Moreton Island. Shop til you drop and party the night away one day, then hand-feed dolphins and up the adrenaline with a 4WD discovery tour of this extraordinary sand island. Ask the hostel tour desk to book a trip that suits you. Brisbane City YHA is located at 392 Upper Roma Street, Brisbane. T: (07) 3236 1004 E: brisbanecity@yha.com.au Book online at yha.com.au.

surrounds

Welcome to Brisbane Backpackers Resort Built underneath the stars so bright, It’s a place to rest your head at night. You’ll try and stay longer with all of your might, So don’t sleep in and miss your flight. The Irish have never quoted it “Shite” So come and stay at Brisbane Backpackers tonight! People have travelled far and wide, To get a taste for the West End side. Brisbane Backpackers Resort is the only place, So close to the city, but with plenty of space. What is it you ask that makes us so diverse? The fact that we’ll put all of your needs first. Did we mention it’s the most fun in the universe! While the workers slave at work, and the students all at school, There you are with your feet up, relaxed in the spa or by the pool. Perhaps a cocktail from the bar will suffice, Or any drink for that matter – all at an excellent price! What room would you like? Four, six, eight share, private, twin or a double? We’ll book you in without any trouble. If it’s into the city that you need to get to, Our free courtesy bus will gladly take you. A free shuttle every hour until 10 every night? Surely this cannot be right! Hold on to your hats, there is more to unfold. All rooms have air con, to keep in the cold. We’ll provide all the linen, all rooms have ensuite, There is even a communal kitchen to cook your own treat! Reception is open 24 hours, so you can always get in, If your night turns out sour. If it’s tours you want, then we can book them too. Our fully licensed tour desk will find the best deal for you. There is Internet, a pool table and ping pong as well. It shouldn’t take more to be cast under our spell. Private lockers! Free car parking! Breakfasts and dinners served too! What more do you need – it’s all here waiting for you. From baked beans on toast to a Sunday night roast, All you will want to do is boast! So for the time of your life, please don’t delay, Give us a call at Brisbane Backpackers today!

Airport Hacienda Best Western Motel Brisbane’s Airport Hacienda Best Western Motel is set on one acre of landscaped gardens and is conveniently close to both transport and entertainment centres, ideal for business and leisure travellers. Just off the Gateway motorway, Airport Hacienda Motel is only 5km from the Brisbane Airport and the CBD, within easy walking distance to Racecourse Road and the Portside Shopping Precincts. The hotel offers a variety of room configurations including family rooms. Most have balconies and are equipped with modern conveniences including wireless Internet. All rooms have a hint of the Spanish style and include quality beds, remote-control TV, tea and coffee making facilities, fresh milk, air-conditioning and heating, tables and chairs, ensuite with showers, hairdryers, and ironing facilities. The Airport Hacienda Motel offers up to four weeks free car storage to guests as well (conditions apply). An on-site fully licensed restaurant is open for breakfast and dinner and overlooks Portside lights. Enjoy the Chef’s menu offering a variety of cuisine, including room service. Conference or meetings can be held during the day – the room has a white board, data screen and tea/coffee facilities. Leisure activities include a full-sized tennis court, a large lawn, outside pool, sauna, and mini-gym to tempt the energetic. Racecourse Road and the Portside Cruise Terminal are in easy walking distance, with village-style retail shopping, banks, restaurants and cafés, hairdressers, and cinemas. Brisbane City (5km) is easily accessed by taxi, bus, train or city cat (water taxi). Buses are able to park on the premises and have easy access with our street-to-street driveway. Stay at the Airport Hacienda Motel, your central location, and enjoy Brisbane. Call 1800 773 633 or visit www.hacienda.com.au.

FREE Car Storage

for up to 4 weeks when you stay 1 night at the Best Western Airport Hacienda Motel Full rack rate applies

1800 773 633

Tel: +61 (0)7 3268 5011 • Fax +61 (0)7 3268 5830 560 Kingsford Smith Drive, Hamilton, Qld 4007 reservations@hacienda.com.au

www.hacienda.com.au Summer 2010 75

NEED VALUE? EAST COAST PASSES HOP ON & OFF - UP TO 90 DAYS From

Sydney to/from Cairns Sydney to/from Brisbane Byron Bay to/from Cairns Brisbane to/from Cairns Melbourne to/from Cairns

1300 473 946 GREYHOUND

GREYHOUND TERMINAL

TRAVEL AGENT

greyhound.com.au

76 T&C’s - PassesSummer valid for2010 90 days from first day of travel. Prices are subject to change. One way travel only. For full T&C’s visit greyhound.com.au

Tourism Queensland

Brisbane City and Brisbane River

Brisbane City Backpackers Location: Brisbane City Backpackers is located in the city centre, just 400 metres from the Greyhound bus terminal on Roma Street. Impressive facilities include, heated roof top swimming pool, rocking Pub, funky cheap café, laundry, huge guest kitchen and a completely free Internet lounge. This hostel has it all!

a great relationship with a large number of businesses around the city, which now regularly look to us to find employees. In addition, we recruit travellers with working holiday visas, to work in our bar and hostels. Guests looking to top up their bank balance or just wanting advice on tax and other working issues, can join our Free Job Club on check-in.

Sleep: We have a broad range of accommodation, air conditioned or fan cooled to suit every pocket, from the financially challenged, to the comfort junkie! You choose! Female only, or small, medium and large mixed dorms. Private single, twin, double, and double ensuite with fridge and TV. All our facilities are cleaned relentlessly and maintained to a newly refurbished standard.

Nightlife: Do you like the wilder side of life? From Christmas to St Patrick’s Day, we offer the best nightlife in the city, at our very own pub, “The Fiddler’s Elbow”. We have an Aussie BBQ every night in our beer garden, where the beautiful view of the city, has to been seen to be believed. Cheap beer, great food, fantastic entertainment every night!

Free Internet: We are the first and only hostel in Australia, to provide free, unlimited broadband Internet access to our guests. Our free high-speed Internet lounge is open 6am to 11pm daily. Travelling with a laptop? Yes, even wireless is completely free!

Out promise! City Backpackers is committed to setting a standard above all competitors. Our facilities are second to none and many of the services we offer at no charge, will cost you $$$ at other hostels. We can’t wait to meet you!

Job club: Just about everything at City Backpackers is included in the price, and our Job Club is no exception! We have developed

Brisbane City Backpackers, 380 Upper Roma Str, Brisbane QLD 4000. Free call 1800 062 572 or visit www.citybackpackers.com.

Summer 2010 77

Pictures: Get Wet Surf School

The magnificent Get Wet Surf School You can’t have the complete Surfers Paradise experience without going surfing – if you don’t know how it’s the perfect place to learn. Get Wet Surf School is recommended by all the leading backpacker hostels and resorts on the Gold Coast, because in just one lesson they can have you standing. Get Wet have the most experienced and professional coaches, a money-back guarantee that you will stand on your first lesson, complimentary transfers to and from your accommodation and great student and backpacker discounts.

Experienced professional coaches The best Gold Coast surfing location All captured on camera Three-hour Gold Coast surf tours for experienced surfers Byron Bay to Surfers Paradise ½-day learn to surf trips

Call 1800 GET WET or go to www.getwetsurf.com Complimentary transfers to and from your Surfers Paradise or Southport hostel.

Offering the lowest student-to-coach ratio allows Get Wet to provide a fun and safe surf lesson and the coaches actually get wet with you and make it as easy as possible. Get Wet’s instructors are all fullyqualified surf lifesavers and all certified to Surfing Australia standard, their two senior coaches are level-two Surfing Australia instructors (only approx 80 coaches worldwide hold this qualification), so even if you’re not confident in the water or a strong swimmer you can relax, enjoy the lesson and know you’re in good hands. Lessons are held daily at “The Spit”, the most ideal location on the Gold Coast for beginners through to advanced. The Spit is a true locals spot away from the busy tourist beaches and less than 10 minutes from all the leading hostels. The Spit has a break wall which not only allows for the formation of good sand banks but also reduces the strength of the stronger sweeps that occur on the more exposed beaches along Surfers Paradise, creating perfect waves and safe conditions. All lessons are captured on camera so you have the opportunity to show everyone shots of you riding the perfect Surfers Paradise waves. If you already know how to surf, they can organise a three-hour tour to take you to the best surf on the Gold Coast. So give Get Wet a call on their free call number 1800 GET WET or go to www.getwetsurf.com.

JTB Travel Centre Looking for things to do on the Gold Coast? Visit the JTB Gold Coast Travel Centre; with a large range of activities and entertainment options at discount prices, including theme park tickets, attractions, day tours, eco-bike hire, meal deals, internet access and more; it’s your “One Stop Travel Centre”. Come and experience the Gold Coast like never before with our new ecofriendly, electric-powered bicycles. The best thing is; you choose how much effort you want to put in. Our Eco-Bikes are a great way to get active, breathe in some fresh air and explore the beautiful sights of the Gold Coast. We provide general tourist information and offer a free tour and ticket booking service. When you’re on the Gold Coast and searching for things to do at cheap prices, come and see us! Our friendly and experienced staff will assist in ensuring you make the most of your time on the Coast. The Travel Centre is centrally located in Surfers Paradise, just down from Westpac Bank, and open from 8am to 6pm every day. For great prices and excellent service, please visit the Travel Centre at 36 Cavill Avenue, Surfers Paradise or call (07) 5531 6988. 78

Summer 2010

Gold Coast Australian Shooting Academy Editorial We are open 10 am – 10pm seven days a week and have satisfied over 20,000 thrill seekers a year since 1994. We offer pistols, rifles and shotguns from .22 up to .50 Calibre. We are very affordable with pistol and rifle shooting starting at $95 for 50 rounds. Our pistols range from .22 calibre up to Smith and Wesson 500 magnum – the biggest handgun in the world. Exotic pistols include Desert Eagles, BFRs and Chargers. Rifles are from .22 calibre up to .458 magnums. Shotguns are 12 guage over and unders. We are currently Australia’s only indoor clay target range, with six separate ranges, totalling 27 shooting lanes! We offer professional, personalized instruction in a safe, air conditioned environment. We offer T-shirts, key rings and certificates as souvenirs. We have 1, 2 & 3 gun packages available or we can customize a package to suit your desires. We also sell package deal vouchers which are a great gift idea. No experience necessary! Novices are welcome. No licence necessary (ID is essential though.) When you’re on the Gold Coast and want to experience something different, come and see us! We are located in the heart of Surfers Paradise in the mall at Level 1, Centro Surfers Paradise, Surfers Paradise, Quueensland. For more information and conditions of entry call 07 5527 5100 or visit www.australianshootingacademy.com.au.

Islander Backpackers Resort Resort

rt rill Spo h T t s e f Sa ralia in Aust • Six separate indoor ranges • Shoot with live ammunition • Fully supervised by experienced range officers • Hearing and eye protection supplied • Great for all ages and genders Open 7 days 10am to 10pm Ph: 07 5527 5100 www.australianshootingacademy.com.au Level 1, Centro, Surfers Paradise, Qld

Islander Backpackers Resort is located smack bang in the heart of Surfers Paradise on Queensland’s Gold Coast, a mustsee destination as you travel along the Queensland coast. This is a unique city of exciting contrast – from amazing beaches to happening nightlife, world heritage listed rainforests and hair raising theme park thrills. Islander Backpackers Resort is the closest hostel to everything you could want in Surfers Paradise – located right next door to the bus station, one block to the beach and only a short walk to shops, pubs, cafes, nightlife and public transport. The hostel is located on the same property as the Islander Resort Hotel, so you get to use the resort facilities for FREE! A tropical pool, spa, steam room, tennis court, squash court and sundeck with barbeque area – all for you to use at your leisure. Also onsite is a bottle shop, laundry, common room with TV, communal kitchen, two Internet cafes (including Global Gossip Wi-fi), games room, car and bicycle hire, undercover car parking (limited), tour desk, 24-hour reception and DVD library to make you feel right at home. Vegas in Paradise – Restaurant, Bar & Gaming is located on ground level and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Happy Hour runs daily at the licensed bar which is open until 5am. The rooms are clean and comfortable with an awesome view of the pool. They offer four, five and six share dorm rooms as well as twin/double rooms. All rooms are well equipped with an ensuite bathroom, private lockers, bar fridge, television and balcony. Islander Backpackers Resort is in a fantastic location to take advantage of all there is to do on the Gold Coast. The tour desk can arrange all of your touring needs, or if you prefer, simply spend your days lazing by the pool or on the beach … after all, this is Surfers Paradise. Summer 2010 79

A baby dolphin for Sea World! A female Inshore Bottlenose dolphin born on September 2, 2010 is the newest member of the Sea World dolphin family. The calf’s proud mum is Zippa, a 10 year old dolphin, who is proving to be a very good mum. The yet to be named calf is doing very well, and has been observed swimming strongly and suckling milk from its mother. Sea World visitors can see the new mum and calf in the park’s Dolphin Nursery pools located opposite the Sea Lion theatre. The best way to see Sea World’s newest dolphin is with a VIP Pass which offers unlimited entry to Sea World, Movie World and Wet’n’Wild until June 30 2011 for just $99.99. For more information visit http://seaworldresort.myfun.com.au.

More Australian, more natural, more fun! Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary includes Currumbin Wildlife Hospital precinct and Green Challenge Adventure Park, an exhilarating 65 challenge treetop ropes course! Renowned for its wild Lorikeet feeding, there are hundreds of native Australian wildlife including koalas, kangaroos, wombats and Tassie devils, daily Aboriginal performances and other shows over 27 hectares of coastal rainforest. Wildnight Adventure and Aussie BBQ is traditional Aboriginal culture, a delicious Aussie BBQ Buffet and Australian nocturnal wildlife at their very best.For information call 1300 886 511 or visit www.cws.org.au.

More Australian More Natural More Fun www.cws.org.au 1300 886 511

Tamborine Rainforset Skywalk

Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk In a setting of 30 private acres of magnificent rainforest alongside a kilometre of tumbling creek and rockpools discover the Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk and Eco centre at Tamborine Mountain, Queensland. Visitors to the Skywalk depart from the Rainforest Eco Gallery and begin the adventure on a spectacular elevated walkway through the beautiful middle and upper canopies of the rainforest. The walkway is a stable, high-tech steel structure enabling visitors to explore these canopies in a safe and secure way. It descends gradually to the lower canopy and follows points of interest including rockpools and majestic ancient strangler figs, a butterfly lookout, local history enclosure and sheltered rest areas along the way until reaching the amazing Cantilever. This is a 40 metre long span soaring 30 metres above the valley, with spectacular views over the creek and the rainforest canopies below. Finally the walk returns along the rainforest floor to the Centre. • Self paced, walk at your leisure, no booking required • First 300m of Skywalk wheelchair accessible • Pram friendly – approx 10 steps along the way • The walk takes approximately one hour • Admission Prices start from $9.50 for children and $18.50 for Adults. The centre is open everyday with self-guided tours operating from 9:30am – 4:00pm. For information call 07 5545 2222, email info@rainforestskywalk.com.au or visit www.rainforestskywalk. com.au. 333 Geissmann Drive, North Tamborine, Queensland

Voted in the Top 10 Best Hostels in Australia Hostelworld July 2010

Free Breakfast 4/6 share dorms BOOK NOW Call FREE on 1800 100 004 or BOOK on our website www.trekkersbackpackers.com.au 80

Summer 2010

Open daily from 9.30 am and last walks are at 4pm. The centre closes at 5pm. Admission from $9.50 for children and $18.50 for Adults.

www.rainforestskywalk.com.au

Go Ride A Wave Surfers Paradise on the Gold Coast is where city and beach fuse together. Famous for our beautiful beaches, warm weather and surf, you must come and try “Learning to Surf” with Go Ride A Wave - Australia’s Biggest and Best Surf School. We have lessons operating twice daily in the heart of the Gold Coast on beach end of Cavill Ave. (Opposite McDonalds)

Learn to Surf

in Noosa, The Gold Coast or The Great Ocean Road.

Learning to surf couldn’t be easier with soft learner surfboards, wetsuits and rash shirts supplied. It is guaranteed fun, and you will be surfing the waves before you know it. All you need to bring is your swimwear and a smile. Free pick up available from your accommodation.

Lessons include 2 hr surf lesson; Surf safety information; All the necessary equipment, including soft beginner board, leg-rope and wetsuit or rashie; Surf instruction to suit your skill level

Bookings 1300 132 441

Go Ride A Wave also operate on the Sunshine Coast (QLD) at Noosa and Mooloolaba, and on the Great Ocean Road in Victoria.

www.gorideawave.com.au

Bookings essential. Call 1300 132 441 or online at www. gorideawave.com.au.

s 6 Share Dorm s e it All with Ensu and TVs

Surf ’n’ Sun Beachside Backpackers ‘The epitome of Surfers Paradise wrapped up in one big bundle of Backpacker Heaven. With an emphasis on fun and frivolity and staff that love to party, it’s no wonder that rooms here get booked up well in advance’ – Lonely Planet 2008. Beachside Location and a five minute walk to Surfers Paradise, what more could you want! Surf ’n’ Sun offers six-bed dorms, all with ensuite bathrooms, fans and TVs. Apartment-style double and twin rooms are available too. Facilities include: Large, modern fullyequipped kitchen, laundry, Internet access, swimming pool and a rec room with a huge flat-screen TV. There is also a seven-night entertainment plan to make sure you never have a dull moment in our fantastic town. Get discount theme park tickets from our tour desk as well as expert advice on how to spend your days in Surfers Paradise.

"The epitome of Surfers Paradise... one big bundle of Backpacker Heaven... an emphasis on fun and frivolity and staff that love to party!" Lonely Planet 2008

THE ONLY HOSTEL

ACROSS FROM

THE BEACH!

Surfers Paradise Backpackers Resort

SURF N SUN BEACHSIDE BACKPACKERS 3323 SURFERS PARADISE BLVD

www.surfnsun–goldcoast.com Mention this ad for $2 off first night!

Rooms completely refurbished! FANTASTIC faci

The minute you walk through the front gate of “The Resort” you feel as if you’re visiting family friends. The type of friends who have the nicest big house and the best toys to play with! After spending two nights in a clean, spacious, en-suite dorm we feel like treating ourselves to a private room in a newly renovated, two bedroom, fully contained apartment – wonderful! An average day at SPBR for us: Local bus to a theme park (tickets purchased from hostel tour desk – great prices) l return to hostel; Skype home using FREE WIFI facilities (totally fantastic); joined the volleyball game; relaxed in the sauna; enjoyed a drink/s in the bar and then went out with the hostel to a great club in town. To recover, the next day we watched a DVD in our room; lazed by the pool, borrowed a body board and used it to sit in the sand; attempted a ‘game’ of tennis and then booked an in-room massage – pure bliss! We have now become two more of the many backpacker’s raving about this hostel around Australia – you HAVE to stay here!

FREECALL 1800 678 194

lities FREE WiFi FREE Washing m achine

0 0 2pa8ck2er8s.0 c o m FREECerAspLaLra1d8is0 .au eback

www.surf

Visit www.surfersparadisebackpackers.com.au or Freecall 1800 282 800. Summer 2010 81

Trend Report

Coolangatta

The iconic seaside village fast becoming Australia’s new backpacker hot spot Coolangatta, the iconic seaside village halfway between Byron Bay and Brisbane is fast becoming Australia’s new backpacker hot spot. With the opening of Komune Resort and Sands Hostel, Coolangatta now has the best accommodation and facilities for young international and local travellers in Australia. These new hostels are truly incredible, they have to be seen to be believed and set a new standard in budget accommodation in Australia. Komune even has a dedicated spa and massage service for backpackers. Just 5 minutes from Gold Coast Airport, Coolangatta has the best of both worlds with pristine unspoilt beaches within short walking distance, year-round world class surf breaks, plus an incredible array of over 50 different restaurants, bars, shopping and cultural activities. Home to the world number 1 and 2 pro surfers, don’t be surprised to find yourself sitting next to Mick Fanning or Joel Parkinson at one of the local cafes or bars. Coolangatta is ideally located for travellers to make a semi-permanent base for their travels with its proximity to the airport, Byron Bay just 40 minutes away and the glitz of Surfers Paradise and the Gold Coasts theme parks just a short bus trip north. For those who love getting back to nature, head to the Currumbin Rock Pools or a little further west to the world-renowned Natural Arch. Affectionately known by the locals as Cooly, Coolangatta has long been famous as the birthplace of modern surfing in Australia, but with the recent influx of young travellers and surfers from across the globe, Coolangatta is rapidly cultivating a very hip beach and bar culture. New venues such as the Sands Hostel Bar, Komune Beach Club and Neverland Bar, offer local and international DJs, music and acts across a wide variety of genres and styles. One of Cooly’s best-kept secrets is its diving with some amazing and unique dive experiences to be found at Cook Island just offshore. Spectacular coral reef and some amazing rock shelf formations together with massive loggerhead turtles, cow nosed rays and unique sealife make a dive experience in Cooly truly memorable. For anyone who is diving between June and November, migrating humpbacks will be serenading them with their spine-tingling song. Whatever your touring needs, Cooly has it all. Don’t miss out on this hidden gem.

Coolangatta Sands Hostel Cnr Griffith & McLean Streets Coolangatta Qld Call (07) 5536 3066

Komune Resort & Beach Club 146 Marine Parade Coolangatta Qld Freecall 1300 komune

www.coolangattasandshostel.com.au / hostel@taphouse.com.au

www.komuneresorts.com / info@komuneresorts.com

Summer 2010

Outback and Central

Qantas Founders Outback Museum

Mount Isa, North West Queensland, is one of the biggest cities in the world with an area of 41,000 square kilometres – equivalent in size to Switzerland. It has a population of 23,000 and is described as the oasis in the Outback: a gleaming mirage on the horizon for travellers from all directions. Nestled in the ochre-red Selwyn Rangers, on the banks of the Leichhardt River, Mount Isa borders the Gulf and Savannah Country to the north, the Simpson Desert to the west, the cattle-rich Channel Country to the south and the rich pastoral grasslands to the east. Mount Isa is the “real” Australia with unspoilt landscapes and friendly Aussie characters waiting to give all visitors a warm welcome. Surrounded by red hills and blessed by an abundance of minerals, Mount Isa has been well endowed with good fortune. Set in the Selwyn Ranges within rock formations hundreds of millions of years old, the region enjoys results of major upheavals at the beginning of time, which thrust untold mineral wealth to the earth’s surface. It is beneficial that those same upheavals have provided today’s travellers with some of the most beautiful and breathtaking scenery in inland Australia. Mount Isa, and the surrounding region, boasts a diverse range of attractions and activities that are sure to appeal to both visitors and residents. Altogether, Mount Isa is a remarkable place, a centre of confidence and birthplace of very many famous Australians, but most of all a place which believes in itself.

Underground Museum, Mount Isa

Outback at Isa ‘Get Up Close’ – Not to be missed The Hard Times Mine is a unique underground experience in a mine built and operated by real miners that provides a rare opportunity to get up close and experience first hand the daily life and workings of an underground mine. From the moment you kit-out in your safety gear and descend in to the mine, to the moment you feel the earth tremble with the face-firing, you are engrossed and captivated by the history, the stories and the machinery. Try your hand at the Air Leg drill, hear the roar of the Mucking Units and see first hand the ingenuity and skill of the legendary Mount Isa miners. The Isa Experience is an interactive, multi-media gallery interpreting the region’s fascinating cultural, indigenous, pioneering and mining heritage. It succeeds in escaping the stereotype of a stuffy museum through the fascinating and informative interactive displays which showcase the rich history of Mount Isa. The Riversleigh Fossil Centre educates and interprets the fossils extracted from the nearby World-heritage Riversleigh fossil fields. These finds have been depicted as dioramas and exhibited in an authentic setting to illustrate the unique discoveries in one of the world’s richest fossil fields. Unlike many other fossil deposits, the Riversleigh fossils are not just a snapshot in time, but a window on the development of early mammal megafauna over the past 30 million years. Join the Palaeontologist for a tour of the laboratory and see how fossils are extracted from the Riversleigh limestone. Themed and designed to showcase the endemic plants of the region, Outback Park is a 2 hectare landscaped park with its central feature a lagoon and waterfall, inspired by the limestone tufas (small cascade waterfalls) of Lawn Hill Gorge. Come and experience the best that Mount Isa has to offer at Outback at Isa.

Summer 2010

Queensland Winton Rich in culture and heritage, Winton is the ideal place to discover Queensland’s outback. Situated in the heart of Matilda Country, Winton has many claims to fame and is the birthplace of two of Australia’s icons: Australia’s unofficial national anthem, ‘Waltzing Matilda’ and our national airline QANTAS. Winton offers you unforgettable experiences that bring the history of Australia and Winton to life.

Fast-forward millions of years and Winton’s more recent history can be discovered at the Waltzing Matilda Centre, incorporating the Qantilda Museum and Outback Regional Gallery. Experience the Royal Open Air Theatre, one of the few operating open air theatres remaining and discover the story of its operation in the dedicated museum. Take a trip

into transport history at Winton’s Diamantina Heritage Truck and Machinery Museum. Visit some of the free attractions in town, including the world’s first permanent Musical Fence, where everybody can play a tune, and Arno’s Wall, an architectural marvel over 10 metres long and 2 metres high, in which everything can be found – including the kitchen sink! Get involved in the local atmosphere during one of Winton’s many events, including the Diamantina Campdraft, Matilda Highway Races, Winton’s Auto Spectacular, the Opal Expo, Winton Camel Races, the Diamantina Rodeo, the Outback Festival among others. Experience Winton … Outback Life, Landscapes and Legends.

Pictures: Winton Visitor Information Centre

Long before Winton existed, Australia was home to prehistoric giants – the dinosaurs. Winton is one of Australia’s most concentrated areas of dinosaur finds, with Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways, the site of the world’s only recorded evidence of a dinosaur stampede, and the Australian Age of Dinosaurs, who conduct annual dinosaur digs in the Winton Shire, with continual preparation of the fossils at the Australian Age of Dinosaurs and Natural History Museum. The Corfield and Fitzmaurice Building houses displays from the Australian Age of Dinosaurs fossil collection.

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N o rt h e rn N e w s o ut h w al e s

Northern New South Wales

Photos courtesy Tourism New South Wales, Hamilton Lund (Tourism NSW), Greater Port Macquarie Tourism

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Summer 2010

1. White water rafting on the Nymboida river 2. The Pinnacle lookout, Border Ranges National Park 3. Kayaking on Queens Lake, Greater Port Macquarie

Cape Byron Kayaks

Byron Bay Kayak with the Dolphins The best way to experience the unique Cape Byron Marine Park and all it has to offer is by kayak. Cape Byron Kayaks guided tours are safe, fun, adventurous and an environmentally friendly option to get up close and personal with the dolphins, the turtles and the whales that frequent the enticing waters of Byron Bay. Dolphins are seen on 90% of the tours and if you don’t see them you get to come again for free! May – November is the season for the Humpback whales annual migration through the Marine Park. So now is the perfect opportunity to marvel at these magnificent mammals and their calves from the unique perspective of your kayak. Whether you are a novice or experienced kayaker, your adventure will include paddling the gorgeous Marine Park, the waves, the wilderness, snorkelling over Middle Reef (conditions permitting) and morning or afternoon tea with all the Tim Tams you can eat on a beautiful beach. Non-swimmers and all ages and abilities welcome. Cape Byron Kayaks is the original kayaking tour in Byron Bay, operating since 1995 and has been featured many times on prominent travel shows such as “Getaway” and “The Great Outdoors”. Our professional guides share a wealth of local knowledge, taking care of all your needs and making your experience a safe and pleasurable one. To make it even more memorable for you photos are included. Tours daily: Summer 8:30am – 11:30am or 1:00pm – 4:00pm. Winter: 10:00am. (Times vary so please call)

Skydive Australia – Australia’s highest Australia’s No 1 Skydiving company – with Australia’s top-four skydiving destinations. Skydive Australia has been giving people the thrill of a life time since 1981. Making over one million skydive dreams come true with a 100% safety and satisfaction record for all tandems. We pride ourselves on not only giving you a mind blowing experience but an insight into the skydiving world, giving you a unique experience you will never forget. All of our skydiving centres have a five-star rating, this means air-conditioned buses, viewing decks, free internet, cinemas to watch your DVDs, showers, toilets, pool tables, access to restaurants and bars and plenty of skydiving action to keep everyone entertained. Come and experience the world of skydiving! All Skydive Australia tickets are valid at all four locations – Byron Bay, Coffs Harbour, Cairns and Mission Beach – which means you can make your way up or down the Australian coast and pick your destination to skydive. Or skydive at all four! We specialise in catering for individuals as well what we’re famous for – providing groups jumps … all your mates together in the same plane for some adrenaline pumping, exhilarating fun. Skydive Byron Bay is Australia’s No 1 skydiving destination, known internationally for its unique beauty and outstanding beaches. You can see Australia’s most famous views of Cape Byron from 14,000 feet. To book, call 1800 800 840 or visit www.australiaskydive.com.au.

To book call 02 6680 9555 and make sure you grab the discount voucher in the Coupon Section. Also check us out at www. capebyronkayaks.com or on Facebook to see how close we get to the dolphins and whales.

DOLPHINS! KAYAK the original and best byron bay kayak tour with the

as seen on

call 02 66 809 555 www.capebyronkayaks.com

Summer 2010 87

For a limited time Greyhound are offering 20% off selected day passes. When booking quote promo code ‘DAY20’!

Only available for a limited time. Regular Greyhound Terms & Conditions apply. See greyhound.com.au for details.

Summer 2010

Clarence Valley Get to know the Clarence Valley

Iluka Riverside Tourist Park – Iluka Riverside Tourist Park is situated on the banks of the Clarence River and with water front camping sites you can cast a fishing line directly from your camp site into the water. With a central camp kitchen, disabled access amenities and located in the centre of Iluka, you are only a short stroll to beaches and shops. Email irtp@clarence.nsw.gov.au Calypso Holiday Park Yamba – Boasting waterfront cabins and camping sites, Calypso Holiday Park Yamba is centrally located in the heart of Yamba. With a private pontoon, inground pool, BBQ facilities and children’s playground – make Calypso your home away from home this Christmas and discover for yourself why Yamba was voted Australia’s Best Town 2009 by Australian Traveller. Email calypso@clarence.nsw.gov.au Brooms Head Caravan Park – Just a short drive from Yamba, Brooms Head Caravan Park is the Clarence Coast’s best kept secret. With 1.5 kms of absolute beach frontage, there is easy access to the beach, a tidal lagoon and rock pools. With powered and unpowered sites with ocean views to choose

from or recently refurbished ocean view cabins, you can be assured of a relaxing beach holiday. Email bhcp@clarence.nsw.gov.au Minnie Water Holiday Park – With a choice of private bush camping sites or cabin accommodation Minnie Water Holiday Park is located adjacent Yuraygir National Park and a short walk to Minnie Water Main Beach. Anglers can catch bream, whiting, tailor and jewfish from the rocks and beach or launch sea craft from the Minnie Water Lagoon. Email minniepark@ clarence.nsw.gov.au

Picture: Clarence Valley Council

Clarence Coast Holiday Parks are ideally located in the coastal towns of Iluka, Yamba, Brooms Head, Minnie Water and Wooli. All parks offer a choice of cabin accommodation, a range of powered and unpowered sites, suitable for tents, camper trailers or caravans. Make sure to include the Clarence Coast Holiday Parks in your next holiday escape. For more information, contact the our friendly park managers directly or visit www.clarence.nsw.gov.au/holidayparks

Wooli Camping and Caravan Park – Wooli Camping and Caravan Park invites you to experience the quiet village atmosphere life. Located in the centre of Wooli, a stones throw from the Wooli River and the Wooli Main beach, you can enjoy a game of bowls and a meal at the Wooli Bowling Club or relax by the river and watch the sunset. Email wrcp@clarence.nsw.gov.au

Summer 2010 89

Port Stephens Pictures: Tourism New South Wales

Not just a day trip! Heading north from Sydney or south from Brisbane? Port Stephens is an amazing destination just north of Sydney. It’s easily reached by car (2½ drive via the F3 freeway) or by coach or train via Newcastle Station with a connecting service via Port Stephens Coaches (Stand 3, Greyhound is Stand 5). Port Stephens is an area with Anna Bay, Nelson Bay and Shoal Bay being the main townships. There are however a whole lot of other interesting villages and townships to explore in the region. With a natural harbour 2½ times the size of Sydney Harbour, it is a must stopover. Bordering the largest marine park in NSW there are 26 beaches in this paradise, something to suit everyone from protected little coves to 35km long Stockton beach with it’s massive sand dunes. Action Time, “Hanging ten” on your surf board at the beach and reef surf breaks. Quad biking or sandboarding down the largest shifting sand dunes in the Southern Hemisphere, or taking part in a four-wheel drive trip is one of those unique adventures. A horse ride along this pristine beach will leave lasting memories. Parasailing over Port Stephens gets the adrenalin pumping in an exhilarating experience soaring over the harbour. Port Stephens is part of the Great Lakes/Port Stephens Marine Park and the waterways offer some spectacular diving and snorkelling. Or take a cruise around the harbour and spot some of our resident Bottlenose Dolphins – there are about 160 of them and the area is well known as the Dolphin Capital of Australia. Jump into and try boom netting. Visiting Broughton Island on a boat trip is awesome and a treat to any visitor to Port Stephens. Or get up close and personal with the dolphins with a kayaking trip around the bay. May to November is “Whale Time”. Port Stephens is lucky enough to have the migrating Humpback whales passing and there are numerous cruises that offer up close experiences with these awesome animals. Tomaree National Park offers bushwalkers and hikers a wide range of walks or you can cycle through the park spotting our resident kangaroos and koalas. The spectacular Tomaree Headland walk is one you don’t want to miss offering views over Port Stephens to Broughton Island all the way back to Newcastle. Port Stephens also has its own wineries and brewery for you to sample the local product. An excellent array of dining options also 90

Summer 2010

Zenith Beach and Stephens Peak. Above: Left: Tobogganing down sand dunes on Stockton Beach.

exists with freshly caught seafood a speciality. When you add a great choice of accommodation options (from backpacker hostels, campgrounds and value cabins all the way to some fantastic resorts), Port Stephens is a MUST to stay and play for a while. Port Stephens – more than just a day trip. Come and see for yourself. For more information visit www.portstephens.org.au or www.portstephensbackpackers.com.au.

Port Stephens Parasailing Port Stephens Parasailing provides the most awe-inspiring view of the marine wonderland below, the parasailing trip can take high flyers either solo or tandem soaring up to 150m above the water. The colourful ballooning parachute is winched into the air from a speed boat and enables parasailers to see Port Stephens from a rare and fascinating angle. Taking off and landing straight from the boat makes this experience easy for everyone. The sight from above of many of the bay’s approximately 80 dolphins is an exhilarating visual treat. Catering for people from the timid to the adrenalin charged junkie. No experience is necessary all that is required is to relax and enjoy the view. The choice is yours to fly solo or tandem, stay dry or take a dip.

NATIONAL PARKS

MASSIVE SAND DUNES

Get G et your your bags bags packed... packed IT’S TIME FOR THE WILDLIFE! Dive into nature only 2½ hours north of Sydney. Your transport problems solved! Alight at Newcastle and connect with the Port Stephens Coach Service direct to our blue water paradise. It’s cheap and easy. So hop to it! Before you miss out on

ACTION, ADVENTURE AND ENDLESS DISCOVERIES...

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Want more info on what to do and see, and where to stay? Check out the website

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PORT STEPHENS

NEWCASTLE SYDNEY

www.portstephens.org.au or freecall 1800 808 900 for your free Visitors Guide

MELBOURNE

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Summer 2010 91

ia l a r t s u A g . n i s l l s e e v pin Tra p a h d a e r p to s

The Inspire Foundation has been helping young Australians lead happier lives since it launched its first initiative ReachOut.com in 1998. Inspire delivers innovative, online programs that improve the mental health and wellbeing of young people aged 14–25. Twelve years on, many young people have felt the impact of Inspire’s programs, including Youth Ambassador Alex Lee, 22, who has recently swapped his full-time desk job to live the life of what he calls a ‘charitable nomad’.

Tell us a little about yourself and how you found Inspire? I live in Sydney. That’s where I went to school, university and worked as an accountant for a couple of years. After settling into my job, I felt like there was more to life than turning up to do the accounts each morning. I turned to the web for ideas on how to make my life more meaningful and help others, and that’s when I found Inspire. I haven’t looked back. I can now express my ideas, my creativity and live more purposefully. What’s it like to be involved with Inspire? The best things are meeting passionate people, building solid relationships with staff and other Youth Ambassadors who are both my friends and my inspiration. Our involvement is genuinely valued. Inspire has helped me see that young people are capable of anything they want to achieve and that our opinions count. So, you’ve swapped your suit to become a charitable nomad for at least six months? Yes! My parents thought I was crazy for leaving a secure full time job to become a full time volunteer. I’m lending a helping hand at the Australian League of Immigration Volunteers, running recreational and educational activities for refugees and asylum seekers in Sydney, Darwin and Christmas Island. What has driven this change? I feel awesome when I do good things for other people. The more good things I do for others, the better I feel. I also

love the freedom, challenge and opportunity that volunteering offers. So far, this experience has been fun, but it has been challenging – I’m in a position where I’m pushed to learn and step up as a leader, which is exactly where I want to be. Inspire’s mission is “help young people lead happier lives” – what does that mean to you? I have no income, but have never been happier than I am now! My happiness comes from the people around me, achieving the goals I set for myself, and pushing my creativity. Everyone wants to be happy – focusing on these three things allows me to sustain my wellbeing. Inspire uses technology to reach young people. How do you keep in touch with people from Sydney while you are on the road and how important is that to your wellbeing? Give me a mobile phone or the Internet and I’m sweet to keep in touch with anyone! I work with several mentors and being in constant communication gives us the opportunity to connect, learn and support each other. It’s the journey, not the destination right? Would you like to share any tips for getting the best out of travelling? Be open-minded, enjoy the surprises (whether they’re good or bad) and never forget the lessons you learn!

inspire.org.au

Greyhound... Helping young people lead happier lives! At Greyhound we like to think of life as an exciting but challenging journey. There can be twists and turns, and some roads are long. But with the right approach the journey can be as fun as reaching the destination. We support the work of the Inspire Foundation because they help young people to discover the skills they need to cope with life’s ups and downs, which will help to protect them from developing mental illnesses.

greyhound.com.au GREYHOUND TERMINAL TRAVEL AGENT 92

Summer 2010

HAVE YOU SEEN AUSTRALIA YET?

Northern NSW with YHA

Time Zones

Travelling up the east coast? Don’t just rush straight up to Byron. Stop off along the way and enjoy some of northern NSW’s best locations with YHA – without blowing your budget!

local & international Sydney Brisbane Melbourne Adelaide Perth Darwin Hobart Athens Auckland Beijing Berlin Boston Cairo Chicago Copenhagen Denver Dubai Dublin Hong Kong Honolulu Houston

12:00 Midday 12:00 Midday 12:00 Midday 11:30 am 10:00 am 10:00 am 12:00 Midday 5:00 am 3:00 pm 10:00 am 4:00 am 10:00 pm 4:00 am 9:00 pm 4:00 am 8:00 pm 7:00 am 3:00 am 10:00 am 4:00 pm 9:00 pm

Jakarta Johannesburg Kuala Lumpur London Los Angeles Miami Moscow Mumbai New Delhi New York Paris Rome San Francisco Singapore Stockholm Suva Tokyo Toronto Vancouver Zurich

9:00 am 4:00 am 10:00 am 3:00 am 7:00 pm 10:00 pm 6:00 am 7:30 am 7:30 am 10:00 pm 4:00 am 4:00 am 7:00 pm 10:00 am 4:00 am 3:00 pm 11:00 am 10:00 pm 7:00 pm 4:00 am

Source: www.world-time.com.au/clock

The above times are based on 12 Midday in Sydney. Add one hour during daylight saving for all times except where daylight saving is observed. Daylight Saving Time is observed in New South Wales, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania, and the Australian Capital Territory. Western Australia, Queensland and the Northern Territory do not observe daylight saving. Daylight saving begins at 2am Eastern Standard Time on the first Sunday in October and ends at 2am Eastern Standard Time (3am summer time) on the first Sunday in April. Where daylight saving is being observed AEST becomes Australian Eastern Daylight Time (AEDT), and clocks are advanced to UTC +11, ACST becomes Australian Central Daylight Time (ACDT), and clocks are advanced to UTC +10 ½. Source: www.australia.gov.au/about-australia/our-country/time

Two hours north of Sydney, and stay at the fantastic Newcastle Beach YHA, phone: (02) 4925 3544. This restored heritage building has a huge ballroom with chandeliers, leather armchairs and open fires. Surf and body board hire, plus free pub meals. Take a pit stop at Port Macquarie, the halfway point between Sydney and Byron Bay. Enjoy camel riding along the beach, sea kayaking, 4WD tours, or the huge range of water sports. Book your bed at Port Macquarie YHA, phone: (02) 6583 5512. Next up is Coffs Harbour, known as the action capital of the North Coast. Get your adrenalin pumping with white-water rafting, diving, whale watching or skydiving. Stay at Coffs Harbour YHA, phone: (02) 6687 7636. Or take a side trip to Bellingen ‘the cruisiest place on earth’ where you can go night canoeing, or try the tour to nearby Dorrigo Rainforest. Bellingen YHA, ph: (02) 6655 1116. South of Byron, central Yamba YHA is minutes from world famous surf breaks. This popular hostel includes a rooftop pool, bar/ restaurant and private rooms with en-suites. Don’t miss Shane’s $10 tour. Phone: (02) 6646 3997. Once in Byron, you’ve got a choice between two fantastic YHAs. Byron Bay YHA, phone: (02) 6685 8853 and Cape Byron YHA, phone: (02) 6685 8788. Book online at yha.com.au.

YHA INTERNET DEALS

40 Church St Ph: (02) 6583 5512 or 1800 880 008

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51 Collingwood St Ph: (02) 6652 6462

Bellingen YHA *$30

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Yamba YHA 26 Coldstream St Ph: (02) 6646 3997

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Byron’s newest FLASHPACKERS in the heart of town

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BYRON BAY

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30 Pacific St, cnr King St Ph: (02) 4925 3544

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Newcastle Beach YHA

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NSW CENTRAL + NORTH COAST

*$33

1/2 hour FREE internet *$31.50

*Present this ad at check-in. *valid to 31/03/11 *one per guest per visit. TravelTime 11/10 *Prices based on standard multi-share rates. YHA members save at least 10% off standard rates.

Book online at yha.com.au Summer 2010 93

things you didn’t know about your next favourite island destinations Rarotonga is the capital island of the Cook Islands. Lots of people think that Rarotonga and the Cook Islands are two different places, or they think that Rarotonga and Tonga (a separate country) are the same place. Not so. Rarotonga is the capital island of the enchanting Cook Islands, 15 in all. Aitutaki is another one of the 15 – named by Getaway travel show host Catriona Rowntree as the most romantic place on Earth (then again, she did have her honeymoon there … mmm). Rarotonga is in the very heart of the South Pacific, both geographically (it’s just west of Tahiti) and because it is still very much a ‘paradise, from the heart’ – with warm, natural, unaffected island people. When you touch down on Rarotonga, you’re minutes away from starting your vacation, not a further two-hour coach ride, small plane or boat ride away. Just a few hours on the new direct flight from Australia and you’ve found yourself in the South Seas! The Cook Islands enjoy lovely weather all year round! Best time to go? Frangipani Season from November through to April is a stunning time of year because it’s typically warm and balmy (not too hot or wet), fragrant frangipani and flame trees are in bloom, mangoes are ripe, and the days are longer (so ‘more sunshine for your dollar’ so to speak), plus sizzling tropical sunsets. A delicious time of year to visit. Then again, anytime is perfect … Small but perfectly formed. Rarotonga is one big playground – at just 32 kms in circumference, it’s small enough to easily get around, but big enough to pack in heaps of activities. Enjoy the freedom of the island on scooter, bicycle, car or soft-top jeep – or the friendly island bus. In the centre of the island are majestic high mountains clothed in lush cloud forest, perfect for a cross-island trek or the island’s most popular tour, a Raro Mountain Safari Tour. Rarotonga is fringed by beautiful white sand beaches, and beyond the reef is deep ocean, perfect for diving or gamefishing. Leave the knitting at home. The island’s best snorkelling spot is the over 10-year-old Aro’a Lagoon Marine Reserve, directly in front of the Cook Islands’ signature resort, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa. The resort offers complimentary snorkelling lessons, snorkelling safaris Ever wondered how to climb a coconut tree? The Cook Islands’ signature resort, The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa, offers lessons in climbing a coconut tree and husking a nut as part of its extensive Free Daily Activities Programme which also includes learning to dance the hula, make a lei and play the ukulele.

Summer 2010

Imagine being able to snorkel in an underwater wonderland straight off the white sand beach just a few steps from your room. On Rarotonga’s sun coast you’ll find the Aroa Lagoon Marine Reserve where you can play with all the friendly reef fishes just a few steps into the water, directly off The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa’s Aroa Beach.

and night snorkelling. Or you can feed the reef fish straight off the restaurant deck. Whatever way you do it, making friends with the lagoon locals is fascinating fun for the young and young at heart. Then there’s all the eating and drinking you can do. The island has about 50 cafes, bars and restaurants dotted around the Circle Island Drive. On Wednesdays The Rarotongan offers an authentic Umu feast slow-cooked in the earth oven, with succulent coconutfed island pork, fresh gamefish and traditional vegetables, followed by a riveting show of island drumming and dancing called the ‘Legends of Polynesia’ Island Night. You’ll soon realize why Cook Island drummers and dancers are considered the best in the Pacific. To kick up your own heels, board the fun bus for The Rarotongan’s Friday NiteLife Tour of the island’s colourful bars and clubs (never too old!). Atone on Sunday at one of the uplifting Cook Islands Christian services held in the island’s historic coral churches; the hymn-singing is out of this world. This ain’t no shopping mecca but a lot of fun can be had at the Saturday morning Punanga Nui Market for local handicrafts, pareus (sarongs), t-shirts, island CD music, ukuleles, carvings – and the all important, Cook Islands black pearls in mysterious hues of peacock blue, green and gray. For your dose of cultural enrichment, go on a tour of the island’s art galleries which range from funky to high art. Location, location, location. For that delicious ‘easy like Sunday morning’ feeling every day of your vacation, nowhere compares to The Rarotongan Beach Resort & Spa. Enjoy the island’s best beach (with all-day sun), off-beach snorkelling (all-tide Aro’a Lagoon Marine Reserve), best shows, best free activities, best range of facilities and services, and best sunsets. Visit www. TheRarotongan.com or email info@rarotongan.co.ck for more info. For those wanting adults-only seclusion, try The Rarotongan’s new neighbouring sister resort, Sanctuary Rarotonga-on the beach www.SanctuaryRarotonga.com. Now’s good. Leave it all behind and getaway to Rarotonga or Aitutaki for a complete break away from it all. If you feel like you’ve ‘been there, done that’ and are searching for a fresh new destination for your holiday, then we know just the place …

S a n c t u a r y RAR O T O N G A – o n t h e B e a c h

International

The NEW retreat for grown-ups I

ndulge in Sanctuary Rarotonga-on the beach, Rarotonga’s NEW adults-only, absolute beachfront resort with a distinctive South Pacific ambience. Enjoy a long cool cocktail at the unique Swim-up Pool Bar. Indulge at new SpaPolynesia LUXE. Feast on fresh island cuisine as you dine with your toes in the sand. Around Rarotonga enjoy a 4WD mountain safari, lagoon cruise, gamefishing, golf, scuba diving, Saturday market, cafes & restaurants – just minutes away! Where the ocean meets the sky, here you have found Sanctuary.

NEW DIRECT FLIGHT SYDNEY - RAROTONGA!!

SANCTUARY rarotonga

Aroa Beach l Rarotonga I COOK ISLANDS P (+682) 25 900 l F 25 988 info@sanctuaryrarotonga.com www.SanctuaryRarotonga.com

S I S T E R R E S O R T S : A I T U TA K I L A G O O N R E S O R T & S PA + T H E R A R O T O N G A N B E A C H R E S O R T & S PA Summer 2010 95

Make every New Zealand day count. Travel with Magic.

Magic Travellers Network is often asked what makes Magic different and the simple answer is our travellers can Do More with Magic. Traveltime caught up with the team at Magic and asked them about their award winning Magic Travellers Network. Magic’s unique

network really does allow you to experience all that New Zealand has to offer. We recommend you travel with Magic for unlimited experiences! Why is travelling with Magic so flexible? We believe in choice. Travel with us and you decide where you want to go, what you want to do, when you want to do it and where you want to stay. Endless possibilities await. What’s your 24 Seat and Accommodation Guarantee? It means our driver guides will always find you a bed for the night and as long as you book 24 hours in advance, we will guarantee you a seat on the bus. It just means it’s easy for you hop on and hop off as often as you want.

What’s this ‘Guide To All Things Magic’ that everyone is talking about? You’ve definitely got to grab a free copy of our highly rated travel guide. The ‘Magic Bible’ provides you with everything you need to know about New Zealand, all the activities you can do and the places you can stay. Packed with over $2000 worth of discounts you can do more with Magic.

TO BOOK PHONE 1800 MAGIC OR VISIT www.magicbus.co.nz 96

Summer 2010

Is it a great way to meet people? Magic is more than just a hop-on hop-off backpacker bus, it’s a social network on wheels. You will meet loads of people like yourself along the way who you can share amazing experiences with and become mates for a lifetime. You can get a head start and meet other Magic travellers at magicbus.co.nz before you even start your travels.

Pictures: Magic Traveller’s Network

Who drives the Magic buses around New Zealand? Our awesome driver guides are home grown New Zealanders and are fanatical about their country. Their stories, kiwi insights and local knowledge are like no other, exposing you to the real New Zealand. They make your trip an experience of a lifetime.

Backpacker Directory WA

EASYPERTHBACKPACKERS

46 Francis Street, Northbridge, Perth

Located in the heart of the arts & entertainments precinct

VIC

$5 OFF Located in the spectacular Grampians National Park, famous for its mountains, waterfalls & wildlife, we offer a great range of quality budget accommodation. All rooms have en-suites & linen. Wi-Fi, kitchen, public phone, lounge, dining area, TV, laundry & BBQ facilities. Dorm beds from: $22, Doubles: $65 330 Grampians Rd, Halls Gap. T: 03 5356 4250 Email: bramback@netconnect.com.au

FIRST NIGHT when you check in before 25/12/2010

For a friendly and relaxed atmosphere in the heart of Melbourne 490-494 Elizabeth Street Melbourne (across the road from the famous Queen Vic Markets!)

Freecall 1800 611 897 or 03 9663 1685

On presentation of this advert

www.brambuk.com.au

VIC

(08) 6161 0971 Arguably Perth’s Best-Value Accommodation www.easyperthbackpackers.com.au

Email: elizabethhostel@hotmail.com

www.elizabethhostel.com.au



VIC

   

    





     

                     Summer 2010 97

B a c k

pa cker

c e n t r al

A traditional heritage hostel located in the centre of Adelaide - a stone’s throw from the Adelaide Bus Station, Central Markets, Rundle Mall and Hindley Street.

QLD

VIC

Backpacker Directory

92 Franklin Street Adelaide Ph: 08 82314703

QLD

E: reception@raglansbackpackers.com.au

y Bay an d Air lie Be ach

Midw ay bet we en He rve

Double/Twin Share/4-Bed Dorms • Pool • Interne t • TV Room • Deck with vie ws • Fully equipped kitchen • Laundr y facilities • Collections from airport, train, bus & marina • FREE Te a and coffee, BBQ facilit y, Bike Hire, Luggage storage P: (07) 4972 5744 • 12 Rollo Street, Gladstone, Qld, 4680

Bed & Breakfast

Annie’s Inn

FEDERAL

BACKPACKER

Bed & Breakfast per night Single . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . from $68 Double or Twin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . from $78 Ensuite Double or Twin . . . . . . . from $88

B A R E in Bundaberg?

FREE Breakfast • FREE Tea & Coffee Five-minute walk to city

221 BOURBONG STREET BUNDABERG QLD 4670

Phone (07) 4153 3711

www.federalbackpackers.com.au

Facsimile (07) 4151 0266

federalbackpackers@hotmail.com

QLD

Yellow Submarine Backpackers Brisbane City Central • Budget Rates

• Dorms

• Swimming Pool

• Doubles

• WiFi

• Twins

• Pool Table

• Kitchen

• Weekly Rates

• BBQs

www.yellowsubmarinebackpackers.com 66 Quay Street, Brisbane – 07 3211 3424 98

Summer 2010

405 Upper Edward Street, Brisbane, OLD 4000 P: (07) 3831 8684 • F: (07) 3831 3073 anniesshandoninn@hotmail.com www.babs.com.au/annies

Brisbane's best kept secret by the Bay FREE Breakfast FREE Sailing Weekly Rates from $120

FREECALL 1800 800 157 www.manlyharbourbackpackers.com.au

QLD

how muchwill a

QLD

gladstonebackpacker@aapt.net.au

Backpacker Directory NT

awesome backpacking in the heart of the city

Affordable accommodation in the heart of the city

stralia da rw in • au

Free bottle of wine with this ad

1 hour free Internet

NSW

$5 OFF First Night

52 Mitchell St, Darwin City • 1300 723 437 • momdarwin.com PORT MACQUARIE - Half way between Sydney and Byron Bay

* FREE INTERNET * FREE BREAKF AST * SWIMMING PO OL

with this ad on check-in. Valid ’til 15/11/10

Stay in

Beach Paradise in Byron

NSW

Free-call 1800 817 696 for pick up www.backpackersinnbyronbay.com.au

ach e s f ul be i ng i t u a 9 Be wa l k i t hi n a l l w s t ance di

NSW

50 Mitchell St, Darwin City • 08 8981 4733 • valueinn.com.au

with this ad

*Offer only valid in conjunction with accommodation.

Mos t highl y re co mmen de d ho stel in po rt by Lo ne ly Pl an et & Le t’s Go

Stretch out and relax Ph. 02 6583 8133

www.ozziepozzie.com

Four-star budget accommodation right in the heart of Manly. Only 80m to the beach. Disabled facilities provided. 24-hour security. Wireless high-speed Internet. Large common room with views of the beach, Plasma TV, Foxtel and DVD player. Fully-equipped kitchen & dining area. FF Roof-top terrace with BBQ $5 O HT IG and 360° views of Manly. N FIRST

NSW

*Offer only valid in conjunction with accommodation.

Rear 63,The Corso, Manly, NSW, Australia 2095

NSW

SYDNEY ACCOMMODATION

“Your Home Away From Home” Clean, friendly, private, central location opposite train station Quality linens, blanket & pillows Newly renovated

BEST PRICES GUARANTEED

T: 02 9361 4509

64 Darlinghurst Rd, Potts Point, NSW 2011

www.aussielodge.com.au

SYDNEY’S ALL ENSUITE BATHROOM HOSTEL • ALL rooms have ensuite bathroom • ALL rooms air conditioned • FREE linen • 24 hour check-in/security • Internet cafe • Large TV/DVD lounge • Fully equipped kitchen Rooms: *Family, Double/Twin with TV & fridge *Dorms: 4 bed - 6 bed - 8 bed

NSW

P: +61 (0)2 99 77 60 77 info@boardrider.com.au www. boardrider.com.au

30 Darlinghurst Rd, King’s Cross FREECALL 1800 236 213 PH 02 9331 7485

info@dluxhostel.com.au $10 OFF A 4-6 NIGHT STAY DORMS FROM JUST $21 www.dluxhostel.com.au Summer 2010 99

Calendar of

events

National Holidays

Dec 25 - Christmas Day Dec 26 - Boxing Day Jan 1 - New Years Day Jan 26 - Australia Day

Nov 17 to Dec 18 Opera Australia, The Opera Centre, Southbank (03) 9685 3777 www.opera-australia.org.au

Victoria

Tourism Victoria/Tony Feder

Melbourne Cup

Oct 29 to Nov 1 Wangaratta Jazz Festival 1800 801 065 www.wangarattajazz.com Oct 30 to Nov 6 Melbourne Cup Carnival Flemington Racecourse 1300 727 575 www.melbournecup.com Nov 2 Emirates Melbourne Cup Flemington Racecourse 1300 727 575 www.melbournecup.com Nov 9 to 14 JBWere Masters Park Road, Cheltenham (03) 9864 1111 www.australianmasters.com.au

Nov 26 to 28 Queenscliff Music Festival Various Queenscliff Venues (03) 5258 4816 www.qmf.net.au Nov 28 Spring Harvest Picnic, Werribee Park, (03) 9521 8844 www.harvestpicnic.com.au

Jan 17 to 30 Australian Open Melbourne Park (03) 9914 4000 www.australianopen.com Jan 20 to 26 Audi Victoria Week Eastern Beach, Geelong (03) 5229 9101 www.victoriaweek.com Jan 26 Australia Day Events Various City & Regional Locations (03) 9651 5174 www.australiaday.vic.gov.au

Dec 24 Carols by Candlelight Sidney Myer Music Bowl 1300 847 466 www.visionaustralia.org

New South Wales

Dec 26 to 30 Vodafone Boxing Day Test MCG (03) 9653 1100 www.cricketvictoria.com.au

Oct 29 Southern Highlands Cup Goulburn Racecourse (02) 4822 2222 www.gdrc.com.au

Dec 26 to 31 VicSuper Murray Marathon Murray River (03) 9403 5000 www.murraymarathon.ymca.org.au

Oct 29 to Nov 1 Mildura Jazz Food & Wine Festival, Mildura & Wentworth (03) 5021 5100 www.artsmildura.com.au

Dec 31 New Year’s Eve in the City City Centre & Other Locations (03) 9658 9658 www.newyears.eve.com.au

Nov 6 & 7 Tastes of the Bay Food & Wine Festival, d’Albora Marina and Apex Park, Nelson Bay (02) 4984 4751 nbtm@nelsonbay.com

Jan 7 & 8 Lorne Pier to Pub (03) 5289 1724 www.lornesurfclub.com.au

Nov 18 to 21 Manly Festival of Surfing www.manlyfestivalofsurfing.com.au

HOP ON, HOP OFF

Flexible kilometre passes let you travel wherever, whenever you like visiting all of these great events.

100

Summer 2010

New Year’s Eve Syndey Nov 19 Goulburn Cup, Goulburn Racecourse, (02) 4822 2222 www.gdrc.com.au Dec 9 Carols in the Cathedral All Saints Anglican Church, Singleton, (02) 6572 4868 jhend99@bigpond.net.au Dec 14 to 18 Murray Masters Pro Am Golf Tournament Corowa Golf Club (02) 6033 1466 www.corowagolf.com.au Dec 26 to Jan 31 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race (02) 8292 7800 www.rolexsydneyhobart.com Dec 31 to Jan 1 Sydney New Year’s Eve Various Sydney Locations (02) 9265 9333 www.sydneynewyearseve.com Jan 5 to 9 Countrylink Parkes Elvis Festival Various Parkes Locations 1800 624 365 www.parkeselvisfestival.com.au Jan 8 to 30 Sydney Festival 2011 Various Sydney Locations (02) 8248 6500 www.sydneyfestival.org.au

Tourism NSW/Hamilton Lund

Oct 2010 – JAN 2011

Jan 24 to Feb 6 Murray River International Music Festival Various Locations (03) 5021 5100 www.artsmildura.com.au

Australian Capital Territory Oct 30 & 31 Sri Chinmoy Triathlon Festival Yarralumla Bay, (02) 6248 0232 www.srichinmoyraces.org/au Nov 6 & 7 Wine, Roses & All That Jazz Various Canberra Locations 1300 554 114 www.canberrawines.com.au Nov 27 Paddy Pallin Adventure Race Series, (02) 6230 5332 www.arocsport.com.au Dec 11 & 12 Canberra City Half Ironman 0431 137 388 www.canberrahalf.com Dec 31 New Year’s in the City Civic Square & Garema Place 132 281 www.events.act.gov.au Jan 6 to 9 Summernats Car Festival Exhibition Park, Canberra (02) 6241 8111 www.summernats.com.au

Jan 25 Australia Day Live Federation Mall, Canberra www.australiaday.org.au Jan 26 Australia Day Events, Various Locations, (02) 6120 0600 www.australiaday.org.au

Queensland Nov 5 to 7 Sunshine Coast International Boat Show, Kawana Waters (07) 4637 2755 www.australianevents.com.au Nov 6 & 7 Wide Bay Australia Bundy Thunder, Power Boat Spectacular, Bundaberg 0429 898 798 www.bundythunder.com.au Nov 6 to 14 Pan Pacific Masters Games Gold Coast Convention & Exhibition Centre, Broadbeach (07) 5564 8733 www.mastersgames.com.au Nov 12 & 13 Cunnamulla Fella Festival & PBR Challenger Series Bull Ride, John Kerr Park (07) 4655 8470 www.paroo.info Nov 18 to 24 Last Man Stands World Championships, Runaway Bay Cricket Club, Gold Coast 0412 103 498 www.lastmanstands.com/world_ champs

Australia Day Nov 25 to 29 Vodafone Ashes Series: Australia v England The Gabba, Woolloongabba (03) 9653 9999 www. cricket.com.au Dec 2 Asia Pacific Screen Awards Gold Coast Convention Centre (07) 3222 1000 www.asiapacificscreenawards.com Dec 3 to 6 Holden Scramble Championship Final Twin Waters Golf Club (07) 8320 1999 www.holdenscramble.com Dec 5 to 12 World Professional Kitesurfing Tour, Narrowneck Beach, Gold Coast www.prokitetour.com Dec 12 to 9 Australian PGA Championship Coolum, Sunshine Coast (03) 8320 1991 www.championship.pga.org.au

Western Australia Oct 31 International Twenty20: Australia v Sri Lanka, WACA Oval, Perth, (08) 9265 7222 www.waca.com.au Nov 7 Anaconda Adventure Race Margaret River Region (03) 5261 5511 www.rapidascent.com.au Nov 24 to 27 Sunseeker Australia Cup Matilda Bay and Perth Waters (08) 9386 9488 www.australiacup.org.au Dec 5 Ironman Western Australia Triathlon, Busselton Foreshore (03) 9864 1138 www.ironmanwa.com Dec 11 & 12 Manjimup Cherry Harmony Festival, Central Business District, 0427 712 316 www.cherryfestival.com.au Dec 16 to 20 International Cricket: Ashes Third Test, Cricket City of Perth WACA Oval, (03) 9653 9999 www.cricket.com.au Jan 1 BMW Perth Cup, Ascot Racecourse, (08) 9277 0777 www.perthracing.org.au

Jan 2 to 9 Brisbane International Tennis Queensland State Tennis Centre, Tennyson (07) 3426 4888 www.brisbaneinternational.com.au Jan 12 to 21 Magic Millions Carnival Gold Coast, (07) 5504 1200 www.magicmillions.com.au

Summernats Car festival

Australian Capital Tourism

Jan 15 to 17 NSW Country Surf Life Saving Championships South West Rocks (02) 6566 6590 www.swrslsc.org.au

Australian Capital Tourism

Jan 14 to 23 Tamworth Country Music Festival Various Tamworth Venues (02) 6767 5300 www.tcmf.com.au

KILOMETRE PASS

Spend kilometres like ‘currency’ to travel whenever, wherever you like AND exchange for exciting experiences like; Great Ocean Road Tour, Uluru Rock Tour even Skydiving in Cairns.

Summer 2010 101

Nov 21 Christmas Craft Fair, Territory Craft, Darwin, (08) 8981 6616 www.territorycraft.org.au

Jan 1 to 8 Hyundai Hopman Cup Burswood Dome, Perth (08) 9388 4755 www.hopmancup.com

Jan 16 to 23 Santos Tour Down Under City & Regional Areas (08) 8463 4701 www.tourdownunder.com.au

Jan 26 Australia Day Events Various Locations www.ausdaywa.com.au

Jan 21 to 26 Tunarama Festival, Port Lincoln (08) 8682 1300 www.tunarama.net

South Australia Nov 12 to 14 Australian International Three Day Event 2010 Rymill Park, Adelaide (08) 383 6180 www.australian3de.com.au

Nothern Territory Nov 4 to 7 24th Annual Billfish Tournament, Groote Eylandt Game & Sport Fishing Club (08) 8987 6368 www.arounddarwin.com.au

Nov 13 to 14 French Festival 2010: L’ile de la Reunion, Carrick Hill (08) 8272 4281 www.af.org.au

Jan 26 Australia Day Northern Territory Sports Day Carnival, Various Locations, (08) 8924 4204 www.australiaday.org.au

Tasmania

Dec 19 Loxton’s Carols by Candlelight East Terrace, Riverland (08) 8584 5338 mail@loxtontourism.com.au

Cape to Cape Nov 12 to 14 Falken Tasmanian Challenge-V8 Supercars Symmons Plains International Raceway, Launceston (07) 5630 0364 www.v8supercars.com.au Nov 27 Launceston Christmas Parade Launceston CBD alanandsatah@smartchat.net.au 0419 287 199 Dec 26 to Jan 1 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, Kings Pier Marina (02) 8292 7800 www.cyca.com.au

Oct 30 to Nov 15 TasPride Festival Various Locations 0432 904 606 www.taspride.com

XXXX Gold Gove Game Classic

Dec 3 to 7 3 Mobile Ashes Test Match Cricket, Second Test Australia v England, Adelaide Oval (03) 9653 9999 www.cricket.com.au

Jan 22 & 23 Heineken Hottest 7’s in the World, NT Rugby Union, Darwin, (08) 945 1444 www.hottest7s.com Jan 26 Australia Day Fun Run Walk Mindi Beach, (08) 8924 4204 www.australiaday.org.au

Tourism Northern Territory

Nov 25 to 28 Adelaide International Guitar Festival 2010, Adelaide Festival Centre, (08) 8216 8600 www.adelaideguitarfestival.com.au

Nov 13 to 18 XXXX Gold Gove Game Classic, Nhulunbuy Regional Sports Fishing Club (08) 8987 8333 www.govefishingclub.org.au

Dec 10 Alice Springs Town Council Christmas Carnival, Todd Mall & Surrounds, (08) 8950 0505 www.alicesprings.nt.gov.au

Dec 29 to Jan 1 The Falls Festival, Marion Bay www.fallsfestival.com.au Jan 5 Devonport Cup, Spreyton Racecourse, (03) 6427 2070 devraclub@tassie.net.au Jan 7 to 15 Moorilla Hobart International Domain Tennis Centre, Hobart (03) 6334 4237 www.tennistasmania.com.au

SIT BACK AND RELAX ...WE LL DRIVE Ask us how we can tailor a package to your needs, we offer a competitive rate for groups of 30 or more. 1800 801 294 greyhound.com.au 102

Summer 2010

WE KNOW HOW TO MOVE PEOPLE

Tourism Western Australia

Jan 11 to 13 World Tennis Challenge 2011 Memorial Drive Tennis Centre (08) 7224 8100 www.worldtennischallenge.com

Magic Millions

Dec 5 Carols by Candlelight Amphitheatre, George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens 6.30pm to 8.30pm

Save with Travel Saver Coupons Greyhound Travel Saver Coupons enable travellers to exclusive offers and discounts. If used properly these coupons can save you hundreds of dollars. • You can use them for discounts on accommodation, tours, sailing, marine safaris, entry into theme parks, museums, zoos, art galleries and attractions. • You can even get free merchandise and internet time. • Simply see the particular coupon you are interested in, then turn to the corresponding page that the company advertisement appears on, and see what you can save.

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See page 09

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www.brisbanebackpackers.com.au TT3-10

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TT3-10

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See page 10

SEE PAGE 05

Stay3

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TT3-10

341 Lake St, ph: 07 4040 7777

408 The Esplanade, PH: 07 4125 3601

One free night Accommodation in Melbourne or Adelaide OR One free Pub crawl Adelaide Only

Bring in coupon to redeem discount *conditions apply

www.nomadshostels.com

1018

Present this voucher to receive

% Discount

Darwin Kununurra

Not valid in conjunction with any other offer, subject to availability during peak periods including school holidays, long weekends and public holidays. Voucher to be presented on check-in. One booking per voucher. Valid for direct proper ty bookings only, not valid for on-line bookings.

Visit our website for destinations Australia Wide

15% Off

Qld

Wa Sa

(up to a maximum of $40 per stay) Perth

Brisbane

First Consultation

Nsw Sydney

See Page 08

Adelaide

Sharon Harris & Associates

Vic Melbourne

Australian Migration Specialists See page 14

Hobart

aspenparks.com.au

Great Location Great Value Great Fun

1hr FREE Internet

1800 009 858 Thinking of migrating to Oz?

TT3-10 Cairns

See page 10

(Direct bookings only. Conditions apply.)

Real Adventure Tours

44 Noosa Drive, PH: 07 5447 3355

TT3-10

penguins.org.au

See page 09

Book Online @ www.flindersbackpackers.com

TT3-10

Present this voucher at one of our centres when booking your English language study, and we will waive the enrolment fee! Applies to four week bookings or more at our Bondi, Manly, Sydney, Brisbane, Cairns, Perth, Melbourne and Darwin centres.

english@navitas.com

See page 13

www.navitasenglish.com Summer 2010 103

10% OFF Greyhound members receive 10% off their travel anywhere around Australia. Members discounts apply to;

• • • • • • • •

Seniors Pensioners Health Care Card Backpacker cards

(ISIC, VIP, YHA, Gap Year debit card, Nomad, Roam Free, Independent Backpacker gold card, ISE)

Rotary members DEFCOM members Conservation Volunteers RSL members

greyhound.com.au YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT 104

Summer 2010

HAVE YOU SEEN AUSTRALIA YET?

Coupons arranged in page order according to advertising position in TT3-10

See page 13

10% DISCOUNT

TT3-10

See page 33

VALID UNTIL

ON TUITION FEES

30.06.2010

ON PRESENTATION OF THIS VOUCHER TT3-10

See Page 33

1 hour

FREE

INTERNET

On check in and on presentation of voucher.

SEE PAGE 24 TT3-10

TT3-10

1 Hour FREE Internet

Freecall 1800 812 780 See page 27

when you book the

baylodge@wn.com.au www.baylodge.info

3-day Uluru Tour

Free Internet Offer on Check-in Please present this voucher to Reception on arrival TT3-10

See page 35

TT3-10

$1 OFF EACH NIGHT

info@1201east.com.au www. 1201east.com.au

northern greenhouse CAIRNS

See page 28

See page 38 TT3-10

TT3-10

Exmouth Visitor Centre

Stay 5 nights and receive a FREE weekend on us*

Awarde d Backp BEST Accomm acker odation 2008 & 2009 by Trop ical No Queens North land

*Offer valid until 31/01/2011, subject to availability. Based on dorm accommodation. Payment must be made upfront at time of booking and is non refundable. Limited to one coupon, per person. Promotion cannot be aggregated with any other offers and cannot be applied to Group or Travel Agent bookings.

See page 38

FREE SHOWER One per voucher See page 29

Toll Free: 1800 287 328 www.exmouthwa.com.au TT3-10

See page 39

TT3-10

See page 39

In the heart of Darwin City..

10% off

Cage of Death & entry with this ad

Home to th e Cage of Death

58 Mitchell St, Darwin City | Ph: 8981 7522 | croccove.com

See page 31 TT3-10

$5 OFF FIRST NIGHT ON PRESENTATION OF COUPON See page 32

Summer 2010â&#x20AC;&#x192; 105

FARES from $15 Low fares Australia wide!

Greyhound has some amazing low fares for point to point travel around Australia. Specials are available for travel one way in either direction.

Canberra to Sydney

Perth to Darwin via Broome

$15 special

50% off!

Brisbane to Toowoomba

Melbourne to Canberra

$15 special

from $49

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greyhound.com.au YOUR LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT

*Special offers apply to Express Tickets only (full adult fare) and is not valid for purchase of Passes. Specials are available on limited seats. Not available in conjunction with any other2010 offer. For full terms and conditions visit greyhound.com.au. 106â&#x20AC;&#x192; Summer

Coupons arranged in page order according to advertising position in

Free

TT3-10

$4OFF

Cairns Dive Centre

T-SHIrT

See page 50

See page 41

1800 211 522

Voucher must be presented to the Cairns Dive Centre staff on the first day of your live-aboard or dive course to receive the T-shirt. (Value $26. One T-shirt design only)

YOUR FIRST NIGHT

79 Palmer Street Townsville, QLD 4810

TT3-10

Barrier t a e r G airns Reef, C

MAGNETIC ISLAND See page 51

Sunlover

FREE

Reef Cruises Discover the real reef

$130 per person voucher to be presented with your youth card. TT3-10

See Page 42 TT3-10

DORMS FROM

$20

See 53 Page

FREE Breakfast & Dinner everyday!

VALID TO 31 MARCH 2011.

10% DISCOUNT on ALL Whitsunday Overnight Sailing Adventures Freecall 1800 677 119 (Conditions may apply)

airliebeach.com

* DIRECT BOOKINGS ONLY

TT3-10

Offer only valid in conjunction with accommodation.

40 Horseshoe Bay Rd, Magnetic Island • Freecall 1800 285 577

TT3-10

See page 43

One coupon per person on check-in

30 minutes Internet or 45 minutes wireless

Departs Cairns Reef Terminal daily at 10am

Conditions apply

Must present this coupon

TT3-10

CRUISE + HELI SPECIAL PRESENT THIS VOUCHER TO RECEIVE

10% DISCOUNT

See page 43

TT3-10

See page 45

FREE

See page 54

One voucher per person. Conditions apply.

www.downunderheli.com

07 4034 9000

5% OFF

TT3-10

our advertised specials

SAME DAY INTERNET

when you visit the Mission Beach Visitor Information Centre Porter Promenade Mission Beach

07 4946 6222

Ph 07 4068 7099

On presentation of coupon. Valid for direct bookings only.

www.missionbeachtourism.com | enquiry@missionbeachtourism.com

page XX 54 See Page TT3-10

TT3-10

See page 55

See page 47

TT3-10

IN THE HEART OF THE CITY

15 MINUTES FREE INTERNET OR INTERNET UPGRADE

See page 50

ON PRESENTATION OF THIS COUPON WHEN CHECKING IN. ONE COUPON PER PERSON. CONDITIONS APPLY.

See page 55

Present this coupon on tour and receive a FREE “Maxi Ragamuffin Cap” Summer 2010 107

24/7 ONLINE TRACKING

L E C PARICE PR DNESS MA

0 9 . S9

FROM

UP T0 40% OFF LIMITED TIME ONLY!!! Send a package up to 3 kilograms cubic (briefcase size) between select routes (depot to depot) for only $9.90! Sydney to/from Canberra Canberra to/from Wagga Wagga Sydney to/from Newcastle Brisbane to/from Toowoomba Brisbane to/from Gold Coast Brisbane to/from Sunshine Coast (Noosa)

SENDING A LARGER PARCEL... Up to 5 kilograms cubic Up to 10 kilograms cubic Up to 15 kilograms cubic Up to 20 kilograms cubic

1300 656 532

ONLY $12 ONLY $15 ONLY $16 ONLY $17

greyhoundfreight.com.au

* Special only available for a limited 108â&#x20AC;&#x192; Summer 2010time. All specials are for freight between depot to depot and does not include pick up or delivery. For full terms and conditions visit www.greyhoundfreight.com.au.

Coupons arranged in page order according to advertising position in TT3-10

TT3-10

See page 57

FREE

STINGER SUIT to the value of $7

ON PRESENTATION OF COUPON TT3-10

2 Nights 1770 Castaway (fly in – CAMP – fly out)

See page 64 Freecall 1800 227 660

$125

Price exclusive to Cool Bananas Hostel. Conditions apply.

present this coupon to receive

TT3-10

pag

Present this coupon for a

FREE UNDERWATER CAMERA

www.oceanrafting.com P 07 4946 6848

TT3-10

See page 59

TT3-10

reef 2 beach

See

9 e5

STINGER SUIT HIRE

See page 64

FREE

Learn 2 Surf

10% DISCOUNT

on surfwear purchased from Reef 2 Beach Surf Shop 07 4974 9072

See page 64

TT3-10

$10 OFF ANY 3 NIGHT STAY!

See page 60

See page 65

TT3-10

One free night

TT3-10

for Greyhound passengers on a Mini Travel Pass or Explorer Pass

mooloolaba Sunshine Coa

On presentation of coupon. Not valid with any other offer.

See Page 61 FREECALL 1800 333 349

See page 67 TT3-10

Experience the Light and Sound Show for the price of our regular guided tour.

TT3-10

coupon-OCT-10-out.indd 1

mooloolaba

13/10/10 4:21 PM

Sunshine Coa

See page 61 Present this voucher to redeem this special pricing. One special admission pricing per voucher.

FREE TATTOO

TT3-10

See page 67 TT3-10

Logo has not bee cleaned up

coupon-OCT-10-KOALA-out.indd 1

temporary

See Page 63

10% OFF

13/10/10 4:10 PM

DIRECT BOOKINGS

www.scooterrootours.com

P: (07) 4974 7697 • M: 0401 395 321 21 Bicentennial Drive, Agnes Water

bluedolphintours@bigpond.com

(07) 4124 9600

See page 68

Summer 2010 109

List of Advertisers

Denotes Greyhound partners

12:01 East Backpackers........................................................... 28

Darwin Military Museum. ........................................................... 33

Ocean Rafting................................................................................. 59

1770 Southern Cross Tourist Retreat................................. 65

D’Lux Hostel................................................................................... 99

Outback at Isa................................................................................. 84

ACE. ..................................................................................................... 12

Down Under Helicopters........................................................... 43

Ozzie Pozzie Backpackers....................................................... 99

Adventures Backpackers Resort.......................................... 50

Easy Perth Backpackers........................................................... 97

Phillip Island Nature Parks........................................................ 10

Adventure Tours............................................................................. 31

Elizabeth Hostel Melbourne..................................................... 97

Pippies Beach House. ................................................................ 68

Airlie Apartments. .......................................................................... 54

Emu Beach Resort....................................................................... 61

Port Stephens Tourism............................................................... 91

AirlieBeach.com............................................................................. 53

Exmouth Visitor Centre. ............................................................. 29

Raglan’s Backpacker Central.................................................. 98

Annie’s Inn......................................................................................... 98

Federal Backpackers. ................................................................. 98

Reef2Beach Surf School........................................................... 64

Aspen Parks........................................................................................ 8

Flinders Station Backpackers.................................................... 9

Reef Jet.............................................................................................. 57

Aussie Lodge ................................................................................. 99

Fraser Coast South Burnett Regional Tourism.............. 69

Reef Lodge Backpackers International. ............................ 50

Australian Maritime Safety Authority. .................................. 14

Get Wet Surf School.................................................................... 78

Rockhampton Backpackers YHA. ....................................... 98

Australian Opal Cutters.............................................................. 24

Gilligan’s Backpackers................................................................ 39

Sanctuary Rarotonga.................................................................. 95

Australian Shooting Academy. ............................................... 79

Gladstone backpackers............................................................. 98

Scania Australia.............................................................................. 13

Australia Post. .................................................................................... 3

Global Central Backpackers.................................................... 98

Scooteroo.......................................................................................... 63

Australia Zoo.................................................................................... 73

Goin’ South Tours......................................................................... 10

Scotty’s Beach House................................................................ 47

Awesome Adventures Oz. ........................................................ 59

Go Ride A Wave............................................................................. 81

Sharon Harris & Associates..................................................... 13

Backpackers Inn Byron Bay.................................................... 99

Hotel Discovery.............................................................................. 97

Skydive Airlie Beach. ................................................................... 54

Banyan View Lodge..................................................................... 32

Islander Backpackers Resort.................................................. 79

Spectacular Jumping Crocodiles.......................................... 32

Bay Lodge......................................................................................... 27

JJ’s Backpackers.......................................................................... 43

State Transit..................................................................................... 18

Best Western Airport Hacienda Motel................................ 75

JTB Travel.......................................................................................... 78

Surfers Paradise Backpackers Resort............................... 81

Billabong Backpackers Perth. ................................................ 28

Kite Republic....................................................................................... 5

Surf n Sun Beachside Backpackers. .................................. 81

Blue Dolphin Marine Tours........................................................ 68

Koorana Crocodile Farm........................................................... 38

Sydney’s Paddy’s Markets. ...................................................... 20

Boardrider Backpacker & Budget Motel........................... 99

Lady Musgrave Cruises. ............................................................ 64

Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk............................................... 80

Brambuck Backpackers............................................................ 97

Magic Travellers Network.......................................................... 96

Taxback.com................................................................................... 15

Brisbane Backpackers............................................................. IFC

Manly Harbour Backpackers. ................................................. 98

The Arts Factory Lodge............................................................. 93

Bungalow Bay Koala Village.................................................... 51

Mantaray Charters........................................................................ 57

The Happy Coach......................................................................... 99

Byron Bay English Language School. ................................ 12

Maxi Action....................................................................................... 55

The Rock Tour................................................................................. 35

Byron Bay Skydive Centre........................................................ 87

Melaleuca on Mitchell.................................................................. 99

The Sydney Opera House........................................................ 21

Cairns Dive Centre........................................................................ 41

Melbourne Aquarium...................................................................... 9

The Woolshed Cairns............................................................... IBC

Canberra Museum and Art Gallery. ..................................... 25

Metro Hospitality Group............................................................. 19

Trekkers Backpackers................................................................ 80

Cape Byron Kayaks..................................................................... 87

Mission Beach Business & Tourism..................................... 45

Tri-State Fruit Fly Exclusion...................................................... 22

Cape Trib Connections............................................................... 41

Mooloolaba Beach Backpackers.......................................... 67

Value Inn............................................................................................. 99

Capital Executive Apartment Hotel...................................... 25

Moreton Island Adventures...................................................... 74

Whitsundays Sailing Adventures.com................................ 55

Captain Cook Cruises................................................................. 23

Museum of Tropical Queensland. ......................................... 49

Wings Diving Adventures.......................................................... 60

Champions Brock Experience................................................ 61

National Harvest Labour Information Service................. 11

Winton Visitor Information Centre......................................... 85

Chill Backpackers. ................................................................... OBC

Ningaloo Reef Dreaming............................................................ 28

WWOOF............................................................................................. 12

Chillis Backpackers...................................................................... 33

Nomads Byron Bay...................................................................... 93

Yellow Submarine Backpackers............................................ 98

Clarence Valley Council.............................................................. 89

Nomads World Hotels. .................................................................. 7

YHA Brisbane.................................................................................. 74

Coolangatta Sands Hostel. ...................................................... 83

Noosa Backpackers Resort..................................................... 68

YHA Cairns....................................................................................... 41

Cool Bananas.................................................................................. 64

Northern Greenhouse................................................................. 38

YHA NSW North Coast.............................................................. 93

Crocosaurus Cove........................................................................ 31

Ocean Beach Backpackers..................................................... 97

YHA Sydney..................................................................................... 24

Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. ................................................ 80

Ocean Hotels & Tourism............................................................ 42

Youth Shack..................................................................................... 33

www.1201east.com.au

www.1770southerncross.com

www.ace.edu.au / www.acl.edu.au www.adventurersresort.com

www.AdventureTours.com.au

www.airlieapartments.com.au www.airliebeach.com

www.babs.com.au/annies www.aspenparks.com.au

www.aussielodge.com.au

www.amsa.gov.au/beacons

www.australianopalcutters.com

www.australianshootingacademy.com.au www.auspost.com

www.australiazoo.com.au www.awesomeoz.com

www.backpackersinnbyronbay.com.au www.banyanviewlodge.com.au www.baylodge.info

www.hacienda.com.au

www.billabongresort.com.au

www.bluedolphintours.com.au www.boardrider.com.au www.brambuk.com.au

www.brisbanebackpackers.com.au www.bungalowbay.com.au www.bbels.com.au

www.australiaskydive.com.au www.cairnsdive.com.au

www.museumsandgalleries.act.gov.au www.capebyronkayaks.com

www.capetribconnections.com www.ceahotel.com.au

www.captaincook.com.au

www.championsbrockexperience.com.au www.chillbackpackers.com www.chillis.com.au

www.clarence.nsw.gov.au

www.coolangattasandshostel.com.au www.coolbananas.net.au www.croccove.com www.cws.org.au

110

Summer 2010

DarwinMilitaryMuseum@bigpond.com.au www.dluxhostel.com.au

www.helicharters.com.au

www.easyperthbackpackers.com.au www.elizabethhostel.com.au www.emusbeachresort.com www.exmouthwa.com.au

www.federalbackpackers.com.au www.flindersbackpackers.com www.frasercoastholidays.info www.getwetsurf.com

www.gilligans.com.au

www.gladstoneregion.info/pages/attractions/ www.globalbackpackerscairns.com.au www.goinsouth.com.au

www.gorideawave.com.au

www.hoteldiscovery.com.au www.islander.com.au

www.jjsbackpackers.com 07 5531 6988

www.kiterepublic.com.au www.Koorana.com.au

www.lmcruises.com.au www.magicbus.co.nz

www.manlyharbourbackpackers.com.au www.mantaraycharters.com www.maxiaction.com.au www.momdarwin.com

www.melbourneaquarium.com.au www.metrohotels.com.au

www.imaginemoremission.com.au

www.mooloolababackpackers.com.au

www.moretonislandadventures.com.au www.mtq.qm.qld.gov.au www.harvesttrail.gov.au

www.ningaloodreaming.com www.nomadsbyronbay.com www.nomadshostels.com

www.noosabackpackers.com

www.NorthernGreenhouse.com.au

www.oceanbeachbackpackers.com.au www.oceanhotels.com.au

www.oceanrafting.com

www.outbackatisa.com.au www.ozziepozzie.com www.penguins.org.au

www.pippiesbeachhouse.com.au www.portstephens.org.au 08 82314703

www.reef2beachsurf.com www.reefjet.com.au

www.reeflodge.com.au 1800 617 194

www.sanctuaryrarotonga.com www.scania.com.au

www.scooterrootours.com

www.scottysbeachhouse.com.au www.migration-australia.com

www.skydiveairliebeach.com.au www.jumpingcrocodile.com.au www.sydneypass.info

www.surfersparadisebackpackers.com.au www.surfnsun-goldcoast.com www.paddysmarkets.com.au

www.rainforestskywalk.com.au www.taxback.com

www.artsfactory.com.au

www.HappyCoach.com.au www.therocktour.com.au

www.sydneyoperahouse.com

www.thewoolshed.com.au

www.trekkersbackpackers.com.au www.fruitfly.net.au

www.valueinn.com.au www.whitsailing.com

www.wingsdivingadventures.com www.experiencewinton.com.au www.wwoof.com.au

www.yellowsubmarinebackpackers.com www.yha.com.au www.yha.com.au www.yha.com.au www.yha.com.au

www.youthshack.com.au

Coupons arranged in page order according to advertising position in

10% OFF

TT3-10

Exclusive Full-day Whale Watch Experience

TT3-10

Get a FREE .22 pistol package valued at $95

DIRECT BOOKINGS bluedolphintours@bigpond.com

(07) 4124 9600 TT3-10

with every full shooting package you purchase

See page 79

ish l g En st t o H akfa One Bre voucher age

p ee

FREE

See page 68

per person Conditions apply.

SEE PAGE 79 TT3-10

Surfers Paradise Freecall 1800 268 621 Or (07) 5538 4344

Check out our Spring Accommodation Deals!

See Page 74

Book & stay 3 nights receive 15min 6 days+ receive 30min Global Gossip Internet

www.backpackersinparadise.com

TT3-10

free

On presentation of voucher

ADULTS @ KIDS PRICES Present this TravelTime coupon at Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary to redeem for day entry. A 1682 C 1683 Con 1684 Max 5 persons per voucher. Cannot be used with any other offer.

TT3-10

See Page 80

FREE

1 FREE

Not be used with any other promotion or discount.

Valid Monday to Friday only.

TT3-10

CAPPUCCINO

Hot Buffet Breakfast for two with your stay See page 75

Valid to 31 March 2011

with the purchase of an adult ticket

TT3-10

See Page 80

SEE PAGE 74

TT3-10

See Page 78

FREE HIRE for the rest of

$10 OFF

when you book direct Complimentary transfers to and from your Surfers Paradise or Southport hostel.

Bookings 1300 132 441

www.gorideawave.com.au See page xx

Call 1800 GET WET or go to www.getwetsurf.com TT3-10

the day with any lesson purchased

TT3-10

$2 OFF First Night

with this voucher

  See page 78

FREECALL 1800 678194

Surf n Sun Beachside Backpackers 3323 Surfers Paradise Blvd www.surfnsun–goldcoast.com

SEE PAGE 81

Summer 2010 111

Coupons arranged in page order according to advertising position in TT3-10

TT3-10

$3 OFF

Annie’s Inn

FIRST NIGHT

upon presentation of coupon

FREECALL 1800 282 800

(07) 3831 8684 • www.babs.com.au/annies TT3-10

TT3-10

Coolangatta Sands Hostel

Komune Resort & Beach Club See page 83

Valid to 30.9.2010 SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

On presentation of this voucher TT3-10

TT3-10

10% OFF

Adult admission to Waltzing Matilda Centre BillaBong theatrette hoMe of the legends exhiBition Qantilda MuseuM outBaCk regional gallery

Valid to 30.9.2010 SEE INSIDE BACK COVER

See page 85

one Coupon per person

TT3-10

SAVE $5 Direct bookings only

Call 02 6680 9555 See page 87

See Back Cover

Present this voucher at one of our four skydive locations to receive a

FREE T-SHIRT 1800 800 840

www.australiaskydive.com

TT3-10

See Page 87

TT3-10

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See Back Cover

TT3-10

93 See Back Cover

TT3-10

SEE PAGE 96

112

Summer 2010

See page 98

FREE Breakfast • FREE All-day Tea & Coﬀee

CONDITIONS APPLY

SEE PAGE 81

BED & BREAKFAST

TT3-10

See Back Cover

D E H S L O O

s u o m a f d l r o THE w

NIGHT Y R E V E ES 2 PARTI S L E WN V E T2L N TO

INMEN LS I A T R A E E T N E M T LIVE SUPERB E T H E B E S M

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AWES

AUSTRALIA’S UNDISPUTED #1 PARTY BAR 24 SHIELDS STREET, CITY PLACE, CAIRNS WWW.THEWOOLSHED.COM.AU

Summer 2010 113

250mts from the Greyhound arrival point

In Brisbane city centre w e n d n a r b s ’ It

e t a t S

It’s

r a e h t f o

h c e t Hi-

s r e k c a p h s a l tf

y k n s fu

tI ’s a

e r o m

! u o dy

e x a rel

t e e m

328 Upper Roma St Brisbane 4000

1800 851 875

E: info@chillbackpackers.com www.chillbackpackers.com 114

Summer 2010