Probus Travel Handbook - October 2022

Tour Officer Travel Handbook

Go with the flow

Discover the delights of Europe with APT.

These are the seductive rhythms of travel. Choosing to be active, or just watching the world go by. Dining in splendour, or trying a local delicacy from a roadside stall. Discovering new places, or renewing a love affair with an old flame. Europe’s rivers are all about these delights.

Aheadof you, an endless silvery ribbon offers the promise of unforgettable moments to come. Of great cities celebrated in literature and music, and overwhelmingly rich in history and culture. Of storybook villages frozen in time, crammed full with tiny town squares and higgledy-piggledy alleys. Of scenery which embraces you with cinematic impact. And all this is drawn together by the river on which you are travelling.

Unpack just once You’ve unpacked, with your suitcases stored until journey’s end, and your luxury floating hotel is ready to be explored. Here you will eat and drink in style, be entertained and illuminated, be looked after by an expert crew, make life-long friends, and sleep like a baby in your luxury cabin.

Whether you’re cruising between Amsterdam and Budapest along the Rhine,

Magnificent Europe cruise, be invited into a family home in Germany that happens to be an historic castle. Sit in the baroque splendour of Vienna’s City Palace for a private concert, listening to the magic of Mozart and Strauss accompanied by the soaring voices of members of the Mozart Boys’ Choir.

Main and Danube rivers; charting a course on Portugal’s Douro between vine-covered hillsides, or passing countryside dotted with extravagant onion-domed churches in Russia, APT brings the magic of Europe’s waterways to life.

Our Signature Experiences are moments that will live with you forever. On our

And board the historic Grand Empress Steam Train for an imperial train journey to Budapest on our April to September departures.

Expand your horizons

In Porto, on the delightful Douro River, visit Palacio da Bolsa for a cocktail reception followed by a passionate traditional fado performance. And in Russia’s imperial capital of St Petersburg, go

The scenery embraces you with cinematic impact

inside the Hermitage Museum before the general public has been admitted, to see the exclusive Peacock Clock Ceremony.

Ensuring peace of mind and wellbeing

For more than 90 years, APT has been a trusted name in travel. We know freedom and flexibility are important when you book.

Our Deposit Peace of Mind Guarantee allows you to cancel and move your deposit to another date or trip, and you can secure your place for up to seven days without paying a deposit.

We look after your wellbeing with our industry-leading health protocols. Your health, and that of your family and our staff and crew, are our highest priority. And our APT travel experts can look after all aspects of your journey.

The name says it all. This cruise along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers is a European classic, taking you through some of Europe’s finest scenery. Explore majestic cities alive with history, such as Amsterdam, Nuremberg, Vienna and Budapest, as well as riverside villages full of charm and character, places including Koblenz, Miltenberg and World Heritage-listed Regensberg and Bamberg.

Signature experiences

• Enjoy a cocktail reception at Namedy Castle.

• Delight in an exclusive private classical concert at Vienna’s City Palace.

• Savour lunch onboard the Grand Empress steamtrain (April–Sept departures).

• CRUISE THE BEAUTIFUL • MURRAY RIVER

Explore this iconic Australian outback river highway in South Australia aboard the southern hemisphere’s largest inland paddlewheeler, the Murray Princess. Indulge yourself on one of our 3, 4 or 7-Night cruises departing from Mannum. Check out our fantastic special event cruises, or combine a Murray River cruise with other famous South Australian regions. The choice is yours!

TO THE PROBUS TOUR OFFICER TRAVEL HANDBOOK

Welcome to the second edition of the Tour Officer Travel Handbook. The first edition was published earlier this year and received overwhelmingly positive feedback.

The key to a successful Club is great leadership and a wide range of activities, trips and tours. Different destinations appeal to different members, so variety is important. This Handbook has been designed to help Tour Officers plan their tours and trips well in advance to meet members’ needs. It also has key information to consider when planning Probus activities.

We hope that Tour Officers continue to find this Handbook helpful, and we encourage you to consider the many offers available to Clubs and members alike.

A great way to promote your Club and Probus generally is for prospective members to see Probus in action. When participating in any trip or tour, we ask that you share your travel experiences through photos and stories for publication in the Active Retirees magazine, e-Newsletter or social media. Submissions for our range of publications should be sent to marketing@probussouthpacific.org

And of course, please feel free to contact our team if we can be of any assistance.

Yours faithfully,

Silvana Martignago, CEO of Probus South Pacific

Blackheath Probus Club members stop for a snap while exploring the slopes of Thredbo in the summertime

Ferry Ser vice!

Ferrying thousands of cars and passengers to and from Kangaroo Island is not our only specialty. We’ll also help you make brilliant holiday memories with our range of coach tours, experiences, and activities.

Choose from our range of day tours and multi-day tours including escorted holidays and coach charters, or enjoy a self-drive holiday. We can also help with arranging your accommodation.

SeaLink really is your one-stop shop for all things Kangaroo Island.

Probus South Pacific Limited PO Box 1294, Parramatta NSW 2124 phone +61 2 9689 0200 1300 630 488 (Australia) 0800 1477 6287 (New Zealand) email admin@probussouthpacific.org website probussouthpacific.org

Administration enquiries

email admin@probussouthpacific.org

Published by Citrus Media PO Box 222 Earlwood NSW 2206 email contact@citrusmedia.com.au

Editorial Editor Adam Scroggy email probus@citrusmedia.com.au

Creative Director Stephanie Goh

Advertising Alex Brereton email alex@citrusmedia.com.au Max La-Brooy email max@citrusmedia.com.au

Management

Publisher Jim Flynn

Production Printed by Spotpress Mailed by D&D Mailing Service Print Post #100029232

Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge

Probus Tour Officer Travel Handbook Disclaimer

The Probus Tour Officer Travel Handbook (the Travel Handbook) is published by Citrus Media (ABN 44 140 352 254) (the Publisher) on behalf of Probus South Pacific Limited (ACN 152 374 395) (PSPL).

Advertisers and contributors to the Travel Handbook acknowledge that they are aware of and undertake to comply with the provisions of applicable State and Federal discrimination legislation and the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 in relation to false and misleading advertising or statements and unfair practices. Neither PSPL nor the Publisher accept any responsibility for such breaches. Opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of PSPL or the Publisher. All articles are general in nature. Individuals should seek expert advice before acting on any information contained in the Travel Handbook. Neither PSPL nor the Publisher make any warranties in relation to the information provided and, to the full extent allowed by law, disclaim all warranties of any kind, express or implied. All material in the Travel Handbook is copyright and may not be produced in whole or in part without the express written permission of the Publisher. Advertisers and contributors warrant that photographs provided for print in the Travel Handbook do not infringe the intellectual property or moral rights of any third party and that the advertiser or contributor holds all necessary permits and licences.

A WORLD OF GROUP TRAVEL OPPORTUNITIES

As your Probus Gold Partner, we are here to make your group trip arrangements as easy and rewarding as possible. The Travel Corporation (TTC) offer amazing choice and expertise – with holidays spanning 70 countries and 7 continents, drawing on over 100 years of experience.

FIND THE PERFECT TRIP

You can choose a tried-and-true trip from our award-winning brands, or work with our team to custom build a bespoke itinerary. From luxury river cruising to tailor-made adventure and a huge variety of touring – we offer an amazing choice of inclusive travel experiences to suit your Club’s needs.

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL

AAT Kings offers unparalleled knowledge of Australia and New Zealand, with over a century’s worth of experience and exploration – its highlights, its secrets, and the people that bring them to life. Our Short Breaks and Guided Holidays allow your Club to travel with complete confidence and ease.

As travel rebounds, lean on our expertise to arrange your Club trips in Asia, North America, Europe and beyond. Our specialist team provide guidance on all aspects of group arrangements: itinerary planning; accommodations & meals; transportation; sightseeing, with competitive pricing and quality assurances.

Tour OfficerTravel Handbook

ABOUT THIS HANDBOOK: A MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR

What it is, why we made it, and how it will help you – the fantastic Probus Tour Officers.

“Travel: it leaves you speechless, and then turns you into a storyteller.” So said 14th century explorer Ibn Battuta, and while we’re pretty certain he didn’t know about Probus when he spoke his words, his wisdom nonetheless rings true to Probians today. Whether it’s a day trip to a new museum in a neighbouring town, or a month-long tour to the far-flung reaches of the globe, travel enriches our lives, broadens our horizons, and connects us to each other. The role of the Probus Tour Officer is essential in facilitating these trips, which is why in this, the Tour Officer Travel Handbook, we’ve sought to provide you with a handy resource to help bring together these wonderful trips.

Throughout the Handbook, we’ve sought to cover as wide a selection of Australia and New Zealand destinations as possible. There are two reasons for this. Firstly, Probus Clubs and members can be found in every corner of our two great countries. And secondly, there isn’t a corner of Australia and NZ that isn’t worth exploring. From the cities to the coast and the outback of Australia, and from the fiords to the mountains and geothermal hot springs of New Zealand, any group of Probians looking for a tour, outing or activity has an endless array of options from which to choose.

That said, we certainly won’t claim this Handbook is exhaustive – there’s simply too much to fit into one guide. We’d need a vast collection, not a handbook, to cover it

all. Instead, we’ve aimed to present a variety of options to satisfy every touring need, from day trips close to populated centres to multi-day and even multi-week escapes that pack in as much value as possible. You’ll find history and heritage, art and culture, scenic landmarks, wildlife encounters, cruises, rail journeys, and so much more. Whichever kind of tour you and your Club members are looking for, we think you’ll find inspiration within these 156 pages. Location-wise, we’ve ordered the states and territories of Australia by population, and each state section has been split into distinct regions. So, if your Club is looking to venture out locally, you should find plenty of ideas not too far from home. Alternatively, if you have in mind a new region you’d like to explore, all you have to do is flick to the relevant page (you can find a full list on page 35) and take in all of the options available. Meanwhile, the rest of the world begins on page 117, starting with 14 jam-packed pages for New Zealand – but certainly not ending there. International travel is only just now starting to become viable again, and as such our Travel Handbook includes a selection of ideas for inspiration in the Pacific Islands, Asia, Europe, the USA and Canada for any Probians looking to venture overseas. Throughout the history of Probus, there have been some absolutely wonderful and memorable Club trips to foreign destinations, and we’re excited at the prospect of seeing these trips unfold once again – with thanks, as always, to the planning and dedication of Probus Tour Officers.

Where possible, we’ve included website details and phone numbers for our chosen locations, to make it as easy as possible for you to get in touch with the business, venue or operator in question. On each spread you’ll find “At a Glance” breakout boxes with quick-access details to many of the locations mentioned, and there’s also a Directory on page 154 where you can see them all in one place. On page 16, we’ve provided a specific run-down on the role of the Probus Tour Officer, with a few hints and tips to keep in mind when organising your next outing, activity or tour. And to whet the appetite for the many destinations covered throughout the guide, we’ve put together a list of 20 unmissable natural sights around Australia – you can catch those starting on page 24.

That’s enough from us for now – we’ll leave you to turn the page and begin discovering the inspiration that follows. After all, a journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step. ■

THE OUTINGS, ACTIVITIES AND TOURS OFFICER’S ROLE

A few hints and tips for Probus Tour Officers to keep in mind when planning the next Club trip.

The role of the Outings, Activities and Tours Officer is an exciting and rewarding one. It requires planning, organisational skills, patience and imagination. It is recommended that more than one officer be appointed to fulfil this role.

Any Probus tour, trip and/or activity should be approved by the Management Committee. The Management Committee approves a Probus activity once they are satisfied that it meets all management guidelines.

When assessing whether to approve an activity, the Management Committee should consider all of the information related to that activity in order to approve it. This would normally include interest from members, location, availability, cost and risk assessment.

1. Thuringowa Combined Probus Club couldn’t be happier on a Club trip to the wonderful Whitsundays

The key functions of the Officer are to:

Investigate and propose suitable trips, tours, outings and activities to the Management Committee for consideration. In costing each outing or activity, ensure that all expenditure is covered and any cancellation fees are also taken into account. Any discounts or ‘free of charge’ offers should be applied so as to benefit all members.

Maintain liaison with other Clubs with a view to arranging occasional joint outings. Ensure that a risk assessment of each outing is conducted when determining suitability.

Ascertain feasibility, including costs and booking arrangements.

ROLE

Ask members for suggestions of proposed outings, tours and other activities.

Ensure that all members are provided with clear instructions in relation to the activity or outing including contingency plans.

Collect money by a nominated date before each activity, keep complete records and issue receipts for all funds received. Give all money collected to the Treasurer for banking with a detailed listing of all funds received. Carefully record all expenses, such as postage and telephone calls, and submit these to the Treasurer with receipts for reimbursement.

Consider offers from Probus Partners given that they normally attract a discount for Probus members.

Familiarisation programs

From time to time, an Officer may be invited by a trip or tour provider to participate in familiarisation programs known as “Famils” programs. This enables the Officer to experience a destination first-hand in readiness for a Club trip. Clubs should set a protocol for free of charge (FOC) benefits offered to Officers.

Identifying what trips, tours or outings to consider

While the Outings, Activities and Tours Officer is responsible for planning these events, they do not have to do all the work. We suggest having a team of members to assist in the research and planning.

The objective of any Club is to have as much participation from members as possible. Not all members will participate in every trip, tour or activity so it is important to provide a range of trips, tours and activities that suit both activity levels and lifestyle.

Here are some tips to gauge interest from members:

Survey: A survey is a great way to understand what your Club members are interested in. We suggest using both open and closed ended questions in your survey that will identify members’ interests. If members are not participating in any trips, tours or activities, ask them why?

Health Check: The Club Health Check (provided by PSPL) can assist in identifying opportunities and interests. This can be a useful tool when planning outings for your Club.

Suggestion box: Consider using a suggestion box where members could include ideas and thoughts on what they would like to do.

Plan events with other Probus Clubs

Maintaining a good relationship with other Clubs is very important. If you’re planning an outing or gathering, we suggest liaising with other Clubs with a view of arranging joint outings. This will assist in achieving the minimum number of participants (if required) and will also strengthen the relationship with other Clubs within your local community.

1. Members of CoonaraCherrybrook Probus Club ‘catch the breeze’ on a trip to the island of Mauritius off the coast of Africa

2. The Probus Club of Gungahlin don the hi-vis vests on a tour of the Capital and Woodlawn wind farms

Here are some tips on how to plan a joint event: Find contact information for local Clubs in the online Directory of Probus Clubs in the Club Administration section of the PSPL website.

Schedule meetings for you to discuss any proposed trips, tours or outings to gauge interest. This can be done face-to-face or even virtually via Zoom or hybrid meetings.

Brainstorm some ideas together on what events may be of interest to members of both Clubs.

It is recommended each participating Club nominate a person responsible for agreeing on responsibilities and tasks among each Club.

Ask the trip, tour or activity provider if other Probus Clubs are already booked on a proposed trip or tour and seek to combine your numbers to achieve minimum participation.

Promote your trip, tour or activity with the wider community

Promoting a Club’s level of activity by highlighting the range of trips, tours and events it participates in is a great way to generate interest in a Club.

Engage all members to take photos and submit them to PSPL to be featured either in our publications, website or Facebook. Send your submissions via email to marketing@probussouthpacific.org to be featured.

Here are some tips for submitting Club News:

Provide a brief description of 100 to 300 words, preferably in third person, about the event with some highlights of the day.

For all photos you wish to submit, ensure you have consent from the participants in the photos.

Provide these same submissions to your local newspaper to promote the Club. Local newspapers are usually happy to include this information free of charge given the importance of Probus in the community.

Please note that due to the high volume of submissions, not all Club News will be published in the magazine, however we will endeavour to include them in either our range of publications, website or Facebook.

1. Bella Vista Probus Club turning in a virtuoso performance in Harbin, China

2. Bangor Combined Probus Club prove that climbing trees isn’t just for the kids

3. The Probus Club of Dingley Central get up close with the famous 11-metre Murray Cod in Swan Hill

Setting a payment and refunds policy

Organising a trip, tour or activity can be a very exciting time for your Probus Club. However, there are some key aspects to consider before suggesting the trip, tour or activity to your committee. Depending on the type of outing, the Officer will need to pre-plan, do some research and set a policy with respect to payment and refunds, and ensure that Club members are fully aware of these policies.

When planning a trip, tour or activity, the Officer should:

Communicate/negotiate refunds and cancellation terms with the trip, tour or activity provider prior to booking. Sometimes there can be more than one provider in a trip (i.e. transport and accommodation) and, as such, it is important to ensure that all cancellation and refund conditions are understood at the time of booking. Make sure to do some research and ensure the venue has a COVID-19 Safety Plan in place. Be sure to check whether they provide refunds or credits if members were unable to attend due to COVID-19 or if the locations being visited were to go into lockdown.

Ensure that members understand the cancellations and refunds policy when the booking is made to ensure that there is no misunderstanding. In some cases, a minimum number of participants is required and often no refunds will apply.

Consider setting an amount required as a deposit when seeking expressions of interest in the trip, tour or activity as this will assist in determining the number of participants early. In some cases, expressing interest without paying a deposit increases the risk of cancellations and/or inaccurate assessment of participant numbers.

1. Meeting ‘El Caballero de Paris’ (The Gentleman from Paris) on the colonial streets of Old Havana, Cuba

2. The Probus Club of Stuart Alice Springs on an outing to the town of Ooraminna, with its replica (yet fully licensed!) old pub

3. Ringwood Clocktower Probus Club feeling on top of the world after climbing to the top of the ‘Big Red’ sand dune in Birdsville

Encourage members to give sufficient notice of cancellations to allow the Club to offer those cancelled spots to other members, if possible.

Ensure that all participants are clear on the final payment date.

Insurance coverage

Please be aware that only approved activities will be covered under the Probus National Insurance Programs, subject always to the terms and conditions of the policies within those programs. These activities include any event organised by a Club or Association such as meetings, outings, tours, trips and interest groups.

For insurance purposes, the approval of a trip, tour, outing or activity should be reflected in the Club’s minutes as being approved. Not all of the information the Management Committee considers needs to be reflected in the Club’s minutes. However, the minutes should contain sufficient information to understand what is being approved. The National Insurance Programs do not provide cover for cancellation/refunds, nor do they provide cover for illness.

Information about the Probus National Insurance Programs can be found in the Club Administration Section of the PSPL website at www.probussouthpacific.org ■

Choose The Best

What’s your definition of adventure?

We reckon it’s any experience that takes you into your unknown. And that’s what we do, every day.

We can’t necessarily say what you will be doing each day. Because it’s up to you. With six dedicated adventure boats and an onboard helicopter at your disposal – you can choose if today is the day that you catch your first barramundi or, perhaps you might choose to fly to an otherwise impossible‑to‑reach spot that others don’t even know about.

An adventure on the TRUE NORTH is one of Australia’s most-desired experiences. Make sure you Choose the Best and, here’s to not knowing the rest, here’s to your next adventure.

OFF-THE-BEATEN-PATH NATURAL WONDERS

Destinations like the Twelve Apostles, Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef are famously incredible – and they’re also incredibly famous. But Australia has so many unbelievable natural wonders that don’t always make the front pages of travel brochures. Here are 20 that we reckon every Australian traveller needs to see in their lifetime.

1Cape Pillar and Tasman Island, Tasmania

Along with Cape Raoul and Cape Hauy, breathtaking Cape Pillar completes the trio of natural wonders that give Tasmania’s epic Three Capes Track its name. For hikers, getting to Cape Pillar generally requires a 2-3 day walk, but visitors can also gaze up at the soaring dolerite cliffs from below on a number of daily cruises, or witness the majesty from high above on a scenic helicopter flight. Standing at the edge of Cape Pillar, you’ll look out towards rugged, desolate Tasman Island – pictured here – and the vast Southern Ocean beyond.

2Wolfe Creek Crater, Western Australia

Around 300,000 years ago, a meteorite travelling at 15km per second crashed into Earth, creating what now holds the title of the world’s secondlargest meteorite crater. That crater just happens to be in what we now call Western Australia, about 150km south of the town of Halls Creek. Wolfe Creek Crater, as it’s commonly known, will leave an impact on you as well. It’s a short 200-metre return walk to the top of the crater rim, where you can truly appreciate the 875-metre wide, 20-metre deep imprint with its unusual green patch of vegetation at the centre.

3 4 5

‘Australia Cave’, Avoca Beach, New South Wales

Located on the Central Coast just 90 minutes from Sydney, Avoca Beach is a stunning seaside suburb from which you can also easily reach beautiful and underrated Bouddi National Park. But that’s not all. When tide is low, there’s a cave at the southern end of Avoca Beach where, from inside looking out, the opening resembles Australia’s northern coastline, making it a popular place for photos. You can explore Avoca Beach, Bouddi National Park and more with Avoca Beach Hotel’s Central Coast Tour Packages (avocabeachhotel.com.au).

Umpherston Sinkhole, South Australia

Known as ‘Balumbul’ in the language of the local Bungandidj people, the Umpherston Sinkhole has to be one of the world’s most remarkable gardens. Sitting on the outskirts of Mount Gambier, the sinkhole was formed when the roof of a limestone caved collapsed; now, it’s the location of a tranquil space with hydrangeas, tree ferns and a colony of possums who come out to play as the sun sets. The site is open year-round, and the stairway into the garden gives you some great vantage points to appreciate the lush greenery from many angles.

Palm Valley, Finke Gorge National Park, Northern Territory

The Finke River, or ‘Larapinta’ in the language of the local Arrernte people, is thought to be the oldest riverbed in the world, dating back some 350 million years. The river is protected by remote but important Finke Gorge National Park, about 140km out from Alice Springs. Probably the park’s most famous and fascinating location is Palm Valley, home to the rare red cabbage palm. This is the only part of the world where this species of palm can be found; it’s estimated that around 3,000 of them reside here.

Skull Rock, Victoria

Just off the coast of Wilsons Promontory –the southernmost point on mainland Australia – sits Skull Rock, aka Cleft Island. It’s a rugged, granite island partially hollowed out by waves to create a 130-metre-wide, 60-metretall cave. According to locals, only nine people have set foot on the island, making it ‘less visited than the moon’. But you won’t need a rocket ship to go there – boats visit daily from local tour operators where you can see the remarkable island up close, as well as the estimated 5,000 seals that call it (and the surrounding islands) home.

Millaa Millaa Lookout, Atherton Tablelands, Queensland

Visitors to Tropical North Queensland tend to stick to the coastline – and with very good reason. But journey inland from Cairns and you’ll happen upon the Atherton Tablelands, arguably North Queensland’s most underrated destination. Here you can escape the humidity and discover cool green pastures, wonderful waterfalls and fascinating geological history. Pictured right is one of its highlights: the breathtaking view from Millaa Millaa Lookout, not too far from photogenic Millaa Millaa Falls.

Macquarie Island, Tasmania

There are plenty of people in the world who have visited every continent, but none of them would have visited the Earth’s mantle – unless, of course, they’ve set foot on Macquarie Island. Situated halfway between Tasmania and Antarctica and technically a Tasmanian State Reserve, Macquarie Island is the only place where the Earth’s mantle lies above the water. It’s also home to about 850,000 breeding pairs of royal penguins, which are endemic to the island, along with three other species of penguin: king, southern rockhopper and Gentoo.

9 10Bungle Bungles, Western Australia

Go to Purnululu National Park to see the Bungle Bungles, one of the Kimberley’s – and, indeed, Australia’s – most eye-catching land formations. These striking orange and black sandstone domes (‘Purnululu’ means sandstone in the language of the local Kija people) are found at the southern end of the park on a range of trails including Domes Walk, Cathedral Gorge Walk and Piccaninny Gorge. Head to the northern end of the park to see Echidna Chasm, a spectacular chasm whose towering orange walls look like they’re lit from within.

Murray River Big Bend, South Australia

The Murray River is Australia’s longest river stretching over 2,500 kilometres, and the biggest bend along its entire length can be found in South Australia near the towns of Nildottie and Swan Reach. Similar to Northern Territory’s Katherine Gorge, here you can witness the Murray’s tallest cliffs rise above you on a river cruise, or head to the Big Bend Lookout for extensive, unforgettable views. The area is also a popular nesting ground for cockatoos, and you can often see large numbers of kangaroos and wombats.

11Redwood Forest, Victoria

The world’s tallest tree species is the Californian redwood, but you don’t need to go to the USA to see these up close. Planted in 1936 by foresters for experimental purposes, the trees have thrived in the rich soil of Victoria’s Otway National Park and now stand at 70 metres tall, and experts say one day they could reach the same height as their siblings in California. Catch highlights like the Redwood Forest, Loch Ard Gorge and, of course, the Twelve Apostles on customised Great Ocean Road itineraries with Terranova Tours (terranovaholidays.com.au).

Wedding Cake Rock, New South Wales

Situated about an hour’s walk south from Bundeena, Wedding Cake Rock is a popular rock formation in the Royal National Park south of Sydney. The rock’s clean lines, unique shape and pure white colour give it the appearance of a wedding cake; however, the iron leaching process that gives the rock its colour also makes it very fragile, which is why it’s fenced off and only to be enjoyed from a distance. When you’re done, treat yourself to lunch in Bundeena, a pretty coastal village with views north to Cronulla (visitsutherlandshire.com.au).

Kata Tjuta, Northern Territory

Uluru grabs many of the headlines (and with good reason), but about 50km west of there you’ll find Kata Tjuta, aka the Olgas, the impressively large, domed rock formations that glow and change colour at sunset. The 36 giant domes are spread over an area of about 20km, and there are a number of walking trails you can follow to view sections of the park. The ‘classic’ trail is the Valley of the Winds, where you can visit two lookouts – Karu and Karingana – or wander the full three to four-hour loop to truly immerse yourself in the Mars-like landscape.

Mossman Gorge, Queensland

Most Australians know that the Daintree is incredibly important for its rich biodiversity, but until you’ve been there it’s difficult to know exactly what you might find. Anyone visiting the area should certainly make the journey north of the Daintree River to mind-blowing Cape Tribulation, but one of the Daintree’s best highlights is in fact just 20 minutes out of Port Douglas: beautiful, tranquil Mossman Gorge. Swim in crystal-clear waters, soak in the lush scenery and learn about the importance of the gorge to the local Kuku Yalanji culture.

Highlights

of Cronulla & Surrounds

Just 40 minutes by train from Sydney’s Central Station, the Sutherland Shire is a destination with pristine beaches, sparkling waterways and spectacular national parks. Combined with an outstanding café culture, you can experience coastal relaxation, fabulous food and natural beauty. Visit for the day or stay for a few to enjoy the beautiful Sutherland Shire. Discover…

Nature & Outdoor activities

• Walk Cronulla Esplanade, follow the coastline walk to explore Cronulla’s beaches & ocean pools. It’s the only beach in Sydney accessible by train.

• Visit Kamay Botany Bay National Park – Learn about Aboriginal culture, see Captain Cook’s Landing Place and watch the whale’s at Cape Solander (June – November)

• Take the iconic wooden ferry from Cronulla to Bundeena or book a scenic lunch cruise with Cronulla & National Park Ferry Cruises.

• Visit Royal National Park, the world’s second-oldest national park. Discover beautiful waterfalls, picnic areas and native flora. Park Connections can collect you from Sutherland Train Station and help you explore the Park.

• In Bundeena, walk the Jibbon Loop Track or paddle along the magnificent Hacking River with Bundeena Kayaks.

• Visit the EG Waterhouse National Camellia Gardens. One of its kind in NSW, with The Jade Teahouse famous for its scones & tea.

• Joseph Banks Native Plants Reserve is devoted entirely to Australian native plants with four kilometres of sealed walking paths.

• Como Heritage Trail – a 3 hour loop walk, download the map on Sutherland Shire Council’s website.

Arts & Culture activities

• Discover Aboriginal carvings and middens on the Jibbon Loop Track near Bundeena.

• Explore the Bundeena Maianbar Art Trail on the first Sunday of every month.

• Visit Hazelhurst Arts Centre and café, Gymea.

• Visit Sydney Tramway Museum, Australia’s oldest tramway museum.

Food & Drink

Dine in beach-side restaurants & clubs and enjoy a vast array of cuisines. There are many options for groups big or small. Here’s just a few:

• Cronulla RSL

• ‘Tradies’ – Gymea and Caringbah

• Bundeena Community & Services Club

• The Botanical @ Highfields, Caringbah

• The Bavarian Beer Café, Westfield Miranda

• Hazelhurst Café, Gymea

• Mikes Bar & Grill, Gymea or Sutherland

• Union Place, Jannali

• Como Hotel

• Club Central, Menai

Great Australian Bight, South Australia

Stretching for an astonishing 1,160km from Cape Pasley, Western Australia to Cape Catastrophe, South Australia, the coastline known as the Great Australian Bight is sometimes said to be the longest uninterrupted line of sea cliffs in the world (definitions vary). What cannot be contested is the coastline’s incredible beauty; endlessly vast and rugged with towering cliff faces up to 60 metres high, it’s where the outback meets the Southern Ocean. It’s also an important calving and gathering area for endangered southern right whales.

London Arch, Victoria

This coastal wonder was formerly known as London Bridge due to a resemblance to its English namesake. That all changed in 1990 when part of the bridge ‘fell down’, following the fate of the real London Bridge (as immortalised in nursery rhymes) and collapsing into the sea. It left one side sitting all by itself in the water. In fact, two travellers became stranded following the collapse and had to be rescued by helicopter – but both were okay. A new name was needed, and so it was renamed the London Arch due to the arch-like shape that remains.

Walls of China, New South Wales

Mungo National Park, deep in the heart of outback New South Wales about four hours from Griffith, five hours from Broken Hill and two hours from of Mildura, is home to the unique formations known as the ‘Walls of China’. These interestingly shaped sand-and-clay dunes are covered in cracks and ridges resulting from thousands of years of erosion. Mungo National Park is also the home of the famous Mungo Lady and Mungo Man, some of the oldest human remains ever discovered – they date back around 42,000 years.

A day trip to remember...

Enjoy a ferry ride & delicious lunch at Davistown RSL Club Only 2 minutes walk from Woy Woy station the M.V Saratoga departs Fisherman’s Wharf Monday to Friday at 10.45am and 12.30pm and on the weekends at 10.45am and 12.30pm for a relaxing ride on the beautiful Brisbane Water. If you would like to stop for a meal or light snack then just inform the captain. He will ring the club prior to your arrival and arrange for the courtesy bus to pick you up at Central Wharf. The bus will then depart the club at 1.15pm and 2.15pm for your return journey. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the Broadwater Restaurant in Davistown RSL Club. Offering an extensive menu including daily specials, there’s sure to be something to tempt

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Horizontal Falls, Western Australia

Sometimes nicknamed the ‘Horries’, the Kimberley region’s epic Horizontal Falls are an unusual natural phenomenon where tidal currents speed through tight coastal gorges, causing the waters to rise along the rock walls and creating a waterfall-like scenario. It’s one of only two places in the world where you can see this phenomenon occur. Experience the Horizontal Falls and at least five other Kimberley waterfalls – including King Georges Falls and Mitchell – on an 11-day, 10-night Kimberley Waterfalls Cruise tour with True North (truenorth.com.au).

Undara Lava Tubes, Queensland

Fancy walking in the ancient path of a volcano? About 190,000 years ago, in an area some 200km south-west of modern-day Cairns, a volcanic eruption spilled massive amounts of lava into the surrounding area. Eventually, the lava drained, leaving behind a series of hollowed-out tunnels that have now been reclaimed by the rainforest. These are the Undara Lava Tubes, and today you can explore these spellbinding geological wonders along with the diverse vegetation and wildlife that now call them home.

Norfolk

Island

Get a taste of the Pacific Islands without even leaving Australia on a visit to the external territory of Norfolk Island. Home to towering pines, rare birdlife, captivating offshore islands and the tallest fern trees on Earth, it’s a destination that overflows with natural beauty – and that’s in addition to its rich Polynesian and convict heritage, truly making a trip there feel like you’ve stepped back in time. Norfolk Island Escapes does an excellent 8-day, 7-night Norfolk Island Discovery Tour where you can see the very best of this island paradise (norfolkislandescapes.com.au). ■

• Choose your destination within Australia or anywhere in the world.

• Choose your preferred travel date and duration.

• We provide a fully inclusive itinerary customised to your club.

• We provide a personalised booking pack for distribution to your members.

• Our team will take care of the bookings, payments and queries from your members and keep you informed.

• We can organise a club presentation by one of our local Trade Travel area representatives.

• We will liaise with you to discuss any of the finer details including pick up points, times and any special needs.

• We provide a Trade Travel Tour Host to assist with the operations on tour so you can sit back and relax.

• Our team is on hand to assist you and your member’s pre, during and post the tour.

• Even when you return from your tour our support is ongoing.

Hot air balloon over the Hunter Valley

New

South Wales

Golden coastlines, unspoilt national parks and vibrant cities, towns and villages –Australia’s most populous state packs so much into its borders. And that’s before you even get stuck into the rich heritage and diverse cultural landscape. There’s an endless array of experiences, whether you’re looking for a short jaunt, a full day out or a multi-day tour. The only question is, where to begin?

SYDNEY & THE BLUE MOUNTAINS

Sparkling waterways, golden beaches, astounding national parks – head any direction in Sydney and you’ll bump into something delightful. But it’s not just natural beauty that makes Sydney amazing. The city bursts at the seams with culture and heritage, and a huge selection of tours await where its many voices can be heard and its many tales can be told.

Spend a day on the harbour at Cockatoo Island

The former convict penal establishment and naval shipyard occupies a prized position on Sydney Harbour, just a 30-minute ferry ride from King Street Wharf or Circular Quay. Embark on a World War II Shipyard Tour to learn the important role Cockatoo Island’s docks played during the global conflict. Take the Convict Precinct Tour to discover the rough-and-tumble history of Cockatoo Island during the penal era. Or for a more general history of the island, try the Lower Island Tour, a 60-minute accessible sightseeing activity suitable for less mobile visitors (cockatooisland.gov.au).

Unlock history at museums and homesteads

Sydney is home to a rich selection of museums and historic buildings that are ideal for group tours. At the Museum of Sydney, the one-hour Convict Colony to Global City tour teaches you about the people and events that shaped the city as we know it. At NSW Parliament House, take the free daily tour and visit historic rooms including legislative chambers where laws are made.

Elsewhere, the Justice & Police Museum is dedicated to telling the story of policing, justice and crime in NSW. It has two great one-hour tours: the Murder Most Foul tour, which tells the tales of bushranger Captain Moonlite and ‘the Mad Dentist of World Square’ Henry Louis Bertrand in the very courtroom where their trials were held; and the Cops and Robbers Tour, which explores the old Water Police station and educates visitors on the infamous 1894 Bridge Street Affray. Don’t fancy a trip into the CBD? Sydney’s suburbs also play host to some wonderful historic venues including Vaucluse House, Rouse Hill Estate, and Elizabeth Farm Rosehill (sydneylivingmuseums.com.au). Or visit Gledswood Homestead & Winery, a convict-built property established circa 1810 that hosts history tours and wine tastings ( gledswood.com.au).

Embrace Sydney’s many waterways

From its harbour to its beaches and rivers, Sydney is made for a fun day afloat. Soak up those million-dollar harbour views in the sunshine while enjoying a Top Deck Lunch with Captain Cook Cruises, or take a Sunset Dinner for threecourse dining from 5pm onwards (captaincook.com.au).

For something a little different, book a lunch cruise aboard one of the majestic sailing ships of Sydney Tall Ships, like

1. History buffs and ghost seekers alike will love a tour of Cockatoo Island

2. Belongings and treasures on display at elegant Rouse Hill Museum (Credit: Destination NSW)

its 1922 Danish three-masted barquentine, the Southern Swan; or its 1939 Norwegian square rigger, the Coral Trekker (sydneytallships.com.au).

Away from the harbour, a cruise along any of Sydney’s rivers is certain to delight, from tranquil Hawkesbury

AT A GLANCE

Cockatoo Island

02 8969 2100 cockatooisland.gov.au

Sydney Living Museums

Museum of Sydney

NSW Parliament House

Justice & Police Museum

Vaucluse House

Rouse Hill Estate

Elizabeth Farm Rosehill 02 8239 2211 sydneylivingmuseums.com.au

Captain Cook Cruises

02 9206 1111 captaincook.com.au

Sydney Tall Ships 02 8015 5571 sydneytallships.com.au

Gledswood Homestead & Winery 02 9606 5111 gledswood.com.au

island on

(1857-1991).

River in the north to breathtaking Georges River and Port Hacking in the south. Cronulla Ferries offers wonderful scenic cruises on Port Hacking, departing from Cronulla’s Tonkin Street Wharf (cronullaferries.com.au).

Go behind the scenes at Sydney’s newest stadium

Be one of the first to experience the new world-class Allianz Stadium’s 60-minute guided walking tour. Friendly guides take you on a behind-the-scenes tour of Australia’s newest and most exciting stadium, home to the Sydney Roosters, Sydney FC and the NSW Waratahs. Hear entertaining stories of players, spectators and past events as you experience exclusive areas and explore the stadium (scgtour.com.au).

Get an art fix in Katoomba

Katoomba is the heart of the Blue Mountains and one of Australia’s most popular destinations for tourists thanks to its location near the Three Sisters, Scenic World and spectacular Jamison Valley. But step away from the crowds at the valley’s edge and you’ll discover Katoomba is brimming with brilliant experiences – whether you’re a fan of heights or not.

The area has always attracted artists, and Blue Mountains City Art Gallery has thus become one of Australia’s leading regional art galleries exhibiting both local and national talent (bluemountainsculturalcentre.com.au). Combine it with a visit to one or more of the many other creative spaces in town: Gallery One88 Fine Arts, Rex-Livingstone Art + Objects and Lost Bear Gallery are all lovely, or simply wander Beverly Place – aka Art Street – for edgy, larger-than-life street murals.

Keen to kick up your heels at the end of the day instead of taking the long drive back down the Great Western

1. The whole family will delight in a visit to the Chocolate Factory Gosford, aka ‘The Sweetest Place on the Central Coast’ (Credit: Destination NSW) 2. Lost Bear Gallery, in Katoomba, has a wonderful selection of ceramics and glass art on display (Credit: Destination NSW)

Scenic World’s famous cableway takes you high over the Jamison Valley

Highway? For an overnight stay, you can’t go past the oldworld charm of the 1930s-style Metropole Guest House (metropolekatoomba.com.au) or the timeless elegance of the Heritage Listed Carrington Hotel (thecarrington.com.au).

CENTRAL COAST & HUNTER

Spanning from Sydney’s edge in the south to Barrington Tops in the north, the Central Coast and Hunter are a vibrant mix of beachside towns, hinterland villages and wineries, and ever-growing urban hubs like Newcastle, Gosford and Maitland. The region is also synonymous with Hunter Valley Wine Country, one of Australia’s best wine regions and a magnet for visitors from across the state and further afield.

Indulge your sweet tooth on the Central Coast

The Central Coast is well-known for its beautiful beaches and bushland setting, but when we’re done exploring the great outdoors we all deserve a break to sample some of a region’s sweeter delights – and there are plenty to find here. For handcrafted gourmet doughnuts, scrolls, cookies, brownies and more, hit up the Daily Dough Co, located at the Wyong Milk Factory and Terrigal Esplanade. Fancy an ice cream on a

warm summer’s day? If you’re at Terrigal Beach, stop in at Terrigal Ice Creamery, or head to Bar Botanica, Erina for Mr Goaty Gelato, voted by Gourmet Traveller the best gelato in NSW (mrgoatygelato.com.au).

For something a little different, take a memorable behindthe-scenes look at how chocolates and sweets are made when you book a guided confectionery production tour at The Chocolate Factory Gosford, home of Nougat Limar, Bon Bon Fine Chocolates and Sydney Marshmallow Co. Alternatively, try their “Create-a-Bar” experience where you can design your very own chocolate bar (chocolatefactorygosford.com.au).

Have a wildlife experience in the Hunter

The Hunter has a great selection of wildlife parks that are excellent for group outings. Hunter Valley Wildlife Park, located in Nulkaba north of Cessnock, is a compact and easy-to-walk zoo offering interactions with creatures ranging from lemurs to meerkats, marmosets, binturongs and more (huntervalleyzoo.com.au). Oakvale Wildlife Park, at Salt Ash in the Port Stephens area, is another popular choice for interactive experiences. Set on 25 acres of natural bushland, it has over 110 species of animals on display, and tractor-trailer rides available to carry guests around the park at a gentle pace (oakvalewildlife.com.au). Fancy an encounter with Australia’s cuddliest marsupial? Try Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary, where you can connect with these beautiful creatures in their natural habitat ( portstephenskoalasanctuary.com.au)

Light up your Christmas in the Hunter Valley

Whether it’s a street lined with colourful home displays or a dedicated show, nothing gets you in the spirit of the festive season quite like Christmas lights. Let your Club immerse itself in the popular Christmas-themed light display at the Hunter Valley Gardens, which hosts an annual Christmas Lights Spectacular. Wind your way through a magical world of light with some of the biggest and most interactive displays you’ll see (huntervalleygardens.com.au).

For a multi-day trip combining the experience with more of the Hunter region’s best sites, try Trade Travel’s 5-day 4-night Christmas Lights Spectacular. The tour includes local highlights like Brokenwood Cellar Door, Kurri Kurri Murals, Sketchley Cottage, Historic Morpeth Village and more before you settle in for a special evening at the Christmas Lights Spectacular with a sit-down Christmas dinner in Hunter Valley Gardens’ Terrace Restaurant (tradetravel.com.au).

Traverse Stockton Beach on camelback

Experience the thrill of riding atop a camel as you wander along the largest moving coastal sand mass in the Southern Hemisphere, the Stockton Beach Sand Dunes. These magnificent golden sands stretch for 32km from Stockton, just north of Newcastle, to Birubi Beach and Anna Bay in the heart of Port Stephens. Oakfield Ranch, located right on Birubi Beach, offers 20-minute daytime rides and 60-minute sunset rides on Fridays and Saturdays (oakfieldranch.com.au). Before or after you head there, pop in for lunch and a craft beer at Murray’s Brewery, whose vibey outdoor space and early-afternoon live music make it perfect for groups (murraysbrewingco.com.au).

SOUTH COAST & ILLAWARRA

The South Coast and Illawarra region runs from the Victorian border in the south to the Royal National Park on Sydney’s edge, bordered by the Southern Tablelands escarpment to the east. Within this narrow corridor you’ll find a seemingly endless procession of beautiful beaches and charming seaside towns that thrive away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

Marvel at the Sea Cliff Bridge and surrounds

Never visited the Sea Cliff Bridge? You’ve probably seen it in many car commercials. It’s one of the world’s most spectacular parallel-to-shore bridges, and it also happens to be walkable. If you can find a parking spot (spaces are limited, especially in high season) your group can hop out and check out one of Australia’s most impressive engineering feats.

But while the bridge is a highlight, there’s plenty more to love about Grand Pacific Drive between the Royal National Park and Wollongong. Go to Bald Hill Lookout for coastal views as hang gliders float majestically nearby. In Helensburgh, visit Symbio Wildlife Park, a family ownedand-operated zoo (symbiozoo.com.au), or venture into the abandoned Helensburgh railway tunnel, famous for its glowworm population (and said by locals to be haunted!). Finish up with a feed accompanied by mind-blowing ocean views by arranging your group a table at the Scarborough Hotel – but be sure to book ahead (thescarboroughhotel.com.au)!

Be blown away by Kiama

The name ‘Kiama’ is from the name ‘Kiaram-a’, meaning ‘where the sea makes a noise’ in the language of the local Wodi Wodi Indigenous people. It’s a reference to the iconic blowhole for which this delightful seaside town is most famous, and indeed, Blowhole Point is the best place to begin your Kiama exploration. Watch waves crash against rocks as you admire Kiama Lighthouse, Blowhole Point Rock Pool, and of course the spectacular Kiama Blowhole itself.

1. Onlookers marvel as the Kiama Blowhole surges powerfully towards the sky

2. Tilba’s eclectic selection of merchants are just part of the attraction in this appealing little South Coast town (Credit: Destination NSW)

Elsewhere in town, stop at the Historic Terrace Houses, built for local quarry workers in 1886 but now housing a selection of dining, crafts, fashion and collectible stores that are ripe for exploration. Or to delve into the past, check out the Pilot’s Cottage Museum and learn about the region’s shipping, cedar industry and basalt quarry history; or the HARS Aviation Museum, just 15 minutes north of the town centre, which is dedicated to the history of Australian aviation (hars.org.au). HARS guided daily tours, conducted by hardcore enthusiasts and former industry workers, are particularly compelling.

Step back in time in Tilba

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At the foot of beautiful Mount Gulaga, a forested ancient volcano rising 806 metres above sea level, the quaint twin villages of Central Tilba and Tilba Tilba make a wonderful day trip for Clubs visiting, or located on, the South Coast. Classified under the National Trust, Central Tilba provides a glimpse into 19th century Australia with its well-preserved weatherboard buildings along Bate Street, resplendent with antiques shops, craft stores and fresh country produce. Pop in to Eumun-Tea, a specialist tea shop with over 200 teas and an eclectic array of teapots, or wander up the street to the Tilba Teapot Café for delicious locally sourced bites. Watch cheesemakers at work at the ABC Cheese Factory, home of Tilba Real Dairy (tilbarealdairy.com). And for a big slice of history, stop by the Dromedary Hotel, built in 1895 as a coffee place but now one of the most charming country pubs in NSW (dromedaryhotel.com.au).

AT A GLANCE

Symbio Zoo

02 4294 1244 symbiozoo.com.au

Scarborough Hotel 02 4267 5444 scarboroughhotel.com.au

HARS Aviation Museum

02 4257 4333 hars.org.au

ABC Cheese Factory (Tilba Real Dairy)

02 4473 7387 tilbarealdairy.com.au

Dromedary Hotel

02 4473 7223 dromedaryhotel.com.au

The Sweetest Place on the Central Coast

The Chocolate Factory Gosford is home to Nougat Limar, Bon Bon Fine Chocolates and The Sydney Marshmallow Co. Since 2007 we have been manufacturing premium confectionery in our modern facility, right here on the Central Coast. Explore an immersive world of chocolate, nougat and marshmallow in our rustic retail store, open 7 days, which is fully stocked with a wide selection of treats to suit any taste.

Sit back and relax with us at our cafe, open Wednesday to Sunday, offering everything from hearty all-day brunches to delicate patisserie items. We have the perfect treats to indulge you in any season. Soak up the sun with your favourite flavour of our specialty home-made ice cream, or cosy up with one of our signature Bon Bon drinking chocolates on those colder days.

You can learn first-hand how we create our decadent confectionery on a guided Factory Tour available Wednesday to Friday. If you just have a quick stop in mind, keep a look out for the porthole windows in our retail store, which offer a sneak peek into where all the magic happens.

For our pint-sized chocolate connoisseurs, we offer fun-filled, and educational “Junior Chocolatier” workshops; available every Weekend* (additional classes during the week in School Holidays), where children can learn from our creative makers.

New at the The Chocolate Factory Gosford: Create-a-Bar. A unique, interactive chocolate experience where you can create your very own Chocolate Bar.

Choose what type of chocolate you love; Milk, Dark or Caramel, select your toppings from over 30 choices, design and place into our Factory mould and wait for it to set. Your creation is then packed into our Chocolate Factory box, you now have your very own delicious, decadent Chocolate Bar to enjoy!

We look forward to welcoming you to the “Sweetest Place on the Central Coast”. For more information on bookable experiences, group tour packages and lunch bookings, please check out The Factory Gosford on social media, visit our website or contact (02) 43223222.

* For school holiday availabilities of Tours and Junior Chocolatier Workshops please contact reception or check our website and Facebook for updates.

SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS, TABLELANDS & SNOWY MONARO

Occupying the non-coastal areas of south-east NSW and stretching west to the Riverina, this proud region is perfect for day trips and weekend jaunts. Their unique location atop the Great Dividing Range gives the Southern Highlands and Tablelands that remote feel well within reach of urban areas, while the Snowy Monaro is a recreational hot spot that draws visitors from all over the country.

Connect with Aussie literary legend Miles Franklin in Goulburn

The year was 1901, and a 19-year-old woman from Goulburn poured her heart and soul into a novel whose modest original purpose was, quite simply, to amuse a few friends. Life changed for young Miles Franklin, however, when famous Australian poet Henry Lawson got wind of her book and showed it to his publishers in Edinburgh. The novel – My Brilliant Career – went on to become one of the greatest Australian novels ever written and even inspired a film starring Judy Davis and Sam Neill.

Goulburn featured heavily in the book, and Goulburn’s local Miles Franklin researcher, Jennifer Lamb, now holds brilliant two-hour tours that illuminate the connections between the author, the novel and this regional city. Your group can board a coach witnessing points of significance from the book, learning about the life of Franklin and connecting with life in Goulburn at the time of Federation. Find out more at the Goulburn Visitor Information Centre ( goulburnaustralia.com.au).

Journey back in time at Berrima Courthouse

Almost half a century before Franklin was born, an equally famous Australian event took place just 45 minutes up the road in Berrima (though the trip may have taken longer

1. Learn about the proud history of the Snowy Hydro Scheme on a tour of the Discovery Centre

2. Four Greek-style Doric columns welcome you at the entrance to the Berrima Courthouse

than 45 minutes back then!). It was the 1943 court case of Lucretia Dunkley and Martin Beech, who were accused of the murder of Henry Dunkley, Lucretia’s husband. We won’t spoil the ending, but said court case is now brought back to life in the 21st century via ‘Treachery, Treason & Murder’, an audio and lightshow at Berrima Courthouse that’s always popular with Probians (berrimacourthouse.org.au).

Wander around the self-guided Heritage Walks of Cooma

For winter sports lovers it’s best known as the gateway to Jindabyne and the Snowy Mountains, but the city of Cooma has plenty of its own highlights waiting to be revealed. On the Lambie Town Walk, your group can discover three Heritage areas recognised by the National Trust: the Court House precinct, built in the 1860s; Lambie Street, the original commercial centre of Cooma; and Church Hill, with its examples of 19th and 20th century religious and educational buildings. You can get all the details you need for these self-guided tours at the Cooma Visitor Centre (visitcooma.com.au/cooma-visitor-centre).

While in town, make sure you don’t miss the Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre, where you can take a virtual flyover of the Snowy Mountains on a 14-metre-wide immersive theatre screen and delve deeper into the scheme’s past, present and future (snowyhydro.com.au).

AT A GLANCE

Miles Franklin Tours (via Goulburn Visitor Information Centre) 02 4823 4531 goulburnaustralia.com.au

Berrima Courthouse 02 4877 1505 berrimacourthouse.org.au

Cooma Heritage Walks 1800 636 525 visitcooma.com.au/ cooma-visitor-centre

Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre 1800 623 776 snowyhydro.com.au

WHAT IS PROBUS

Probus provides retirees with the opportunity to connect socially, which is so important in today’s world.

Make new friends, learn a new skill, explore new interests and hobbies - there is so much to choose from when you become a member of your local Probus Club.

Membership is open to anyone who is retired or semi-retired, so why not join the tens of thousands of Probus members across Australia and New Zealand and find your local Probus Club today.

WHY JOIN PROBUS?

To find your local Probus Club, please visit our Club Locator at www.probussouthpacific.org or contact us on: Australia 1300 630 488 New Zealand 0800 1477 6287 Email: admin@probussouthpacific.org Website: www.probussouthpacific.org Enhance

NORTH COAST & NEW ENGLAND

The stunning NSW north coast spans from Forster-Tuncurry to the Queensland border, taking in popular coastal towns like Byron Bay, Coffs Harbour, Port Macquarie and Yamba. Further inland is the New England region, with highlights ranging from the mineral springs of Moree to the country music mecca that is Tamworth.

Feel the creative flow of Byron Bay

Byron Bay may be known for music festivals and surfers, but the creative juices that flow through the town’s residents mean there’s no end of wonderful art and culture experiences to be had too. At Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens, located in the Byron hinterland, you’ll find a magical sanctuary where members can visit ancient amethyst caves and stand between the “two tallest crystals on earth”, known as the Crystal Guardians (crystalcastle.com.au).

For art lovers, choose from the tranquil elegance of Byron Bay Gallery (byronbaygallery.com), the Indigenous artistic

1. Take a photo between the world’s tallest pair of amethyst geodes at Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens

2. Delve into Australian history with a heavy focus on Federation at Sir Henry Parkes Memorial School of Arts, Tenterfield (Credit: Destination NSW)

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brilliance of Ninbella Gallery (ninbella.com), or the chilledout art-meets-wine-meets-music experience of Art and Wine Co (artandwinecobyronbay.com.au). And that’s really just scratching the surface. Thinking of visiting Byron Bay in October? See if you can time your visit with the Byron Bay International Film Festival, one of the top film festivals in the Southern Hemisphere (bbff.com.au).

Follow the Koala Trail of Port Macquarie

The award-winning Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail is a Port Macquarie favourite, featuring over 80 one-metretall fibreglass koalas hand-painted with unique designs by local artists. The colourful marsupials are spread across Port Macquarie, from the city centre to the coastline and hinterland towns like Wauchope and Laurieton. In addition to providing super-fun photo opportunities while you see the sights of an Australian town with history dating back to the penal era, the Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail also raises muchneeded awareness about the importance of protecting our koalas and our environment – particularly in the wake of the devastating 2019-20 bushfires (hellokoalas.com).

Discover the famous faces of Tenterfield

For a small country town, Tenterfield has been a lightning rod for fame over the centuries, with many famous names either born or spending time in the region. Legendary Australian singer-songwriter Peter Allen was born there, and visitors to the town love checking out the historic Tenterfield blue-granite saddlery made famous in his song “Tenterfield Saddler”.

Australian politician Sir Henry Parkes, aka The Father of Federation, delivered his famous ‘One People, One Destiny’ speech at Tenterfield; you can find out more about him and the history of Australian Federation at the Sir Henry Parkes Memorial School of Arts (schoolofartstenterfield.com).

Iconic bush poet Banjo Paterson also lived here; not only was he a regular at the Tenterfield Saddler, but he also proposed to the love of his life, Alice Walker, at the Boonoo Boonoo Falls lookout, and their wedding reception was held at the Tenterfield Station Homestead.

AT A GLANCE

Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens

02 6684 3111 crystalcastle.com.au

Byron Bay Gallery 0414 749 278 byronbaygallery.com

Ninbella Gallery 0429 357 274 ninbella.com

Byron Bay International Film Festival bbff.com.au

Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail 0416 641 482 hellokoalas.com

Sir Henry Parkes Memorial School of Arts 02 6736 6100 schoolofartstenterfield.com

THE RIVERINA

An agricultural hub built outwards from the fertile grounds of the Murrumbidgee and Murray Rivers, the Riverina is a vibrant country region overflowing with natural beauty, outdoor experiences and cultural heritage – not to mention the opportunity to access wonderful locally grown produce right at the source.

Go on Zoo-fari at Darlington Point

Conceived and managed by the Griffith-based Altin family, Altina Wildlife Park is an open-air zoo where visitors can take tours on horse-drawn or motorised carts to see over 40 species of animals. Altina’s guides bring visitors on a 2.5hour tour around the park to meet the zoo’s residents during feed times, ensuring you get to see as many animals up close and personal as possible. For an even closer experience, try one of Altina’s Behind the Scenes Encounters, 30-minute tours where you have the opportunity to feed either rhinos, lions, monkeys, meerkats, giraffes or a selection of other creatures (altinawildlife.com).

Learn about modern agriculture in Australia’s food basket

An incredibly productive and diverse agricultural region, the Riverina is sometimes referred to as the “food basket of Australia” – which is why Club members may be fascinated by a specialised agricultural tour of the region. Agricultural Tours Riverina offers a selection of itineraries around towns like Leeton and Griffith, including a three-day Farming in the Riverina tour, a 1-2-day Organic Agriculture tour, a one-day Rice Farming tour, and a range of Wine Appreciation tours. Learn about modern approaches and attitudes to farming and the environment, and discover what these enterprises mean to rural communities (agriculturaltoursriverina.com.au).

Donald

Visit the birthplace of Bradman

Sir Donald Bradman grew up in Bowral and spent much of his life in Adelaide, but he was born on 27 August 1908 in the Riverina town of Cootamundra – and the house where he was birthed is now a museum dedicated to the greatest batsman the world has ever known. Granny Scholz, the midwife who delivered the Australian cricketing legend, operated a small private hospital in the front room of 89 Adams Street, Cootamundra in the early 1900s; following a refurbishment in 1992 the address is now home to all things Bradman, with memorabilia depicting the life and exploits of The Don. The house next door, Memorabilia Cottage, also contains a nostalgic collection of bric-a-brac from Australia’s past. Chat with knowledgeable volunteers for whom the life of Bradman is a labour of love, and then head in to Cootamundra itself for a meal – it’s an attractive and friendly country town with a great selection of pubs, bakeries, cafes and restaurants.

goulburnaustralia.com.au

Make your next group tour a memorable one in Goulburn Australia. A range of tours are available within the region.

Guided Tours* include:

• Guided City Tour – A guide will board your coach and show you the sights of Goulburn, revealing the history and local tales behind many of the landmarks throughout the city.

• Hosted Day Tour – Make your way to Goulburn and enjoy a day out with your host. Including a Guided City Tour, morning tea, visits to some of our main attractions, lunch, afternoon tea, and a Goulburn Australia welcome bag.

• Miles Franklin Discovery Tour – Local researcher, Jennifer Lamb, will set the scene by starting your day with an illustrated talk outlining close connections between Goulburn, Miles Franklin and My Brilliant Career.

Self-Guided Tours include:

• Arts & Culture Immerse yourself in one of our captivating galleries and performance venues and let your imagination wander.

• History & Heritage Discover fascinating stories of our eclectic history through the abundance of museums, homesteads and stunning heritage architecture.

Or speak with our Groups Liaison Officer, Jacki, on: (02) 4823 4531 for a specialised itinerary for your group including suggested attractions and time frames to suit your needs and interests.

*Costs are applicable for Guided Tours, please speak with our Groups Liaison Officer for up to date prices.

#goulburnaustralia

CENTRAL WEST, ORANA & FAR WEST

These sometimes-overlapping regions broadly include most of the state west of the dividing range, including regional centres like Bathurst, Cowra, Lithgow, Mudgee, Orange, Parkes; north to the Queensland border passing through Dubbo, Cobar, Bourke and Coonabarabran; and all the way to the South Australian border via Broken Hill. But these towns are so much more than stops on a long drive – as anyone who ventures inland is bound to discover.

Explore Orange and its satellite villages

A thriving area blending rich heritage with award-winning food experiences, Orange is an often-underestimated NSW regional centre that rarely fails to impress. The town of Orange itself is home to wineries, parks, markets, galleries and more, but visits to its surrounding villages are equally rewarding.

Try Canowindra, aka the Hot Air Balloon Capital of Australia (balloonjoyflights.com.au). Head to Manildra, home of the Manildra Flour Mill – the largest mill of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere – as well as Amusu Theatre, established in 1936 and the longest continually operating theatre in Australia (amusutheatre.com.au). At Millthorpe, journey back in time to the late 19th and early 20th centuries with cobbled streets and Heritage Listed bluestone buildings that now house boutique stores and restaurants.

1. Canowindra is home of the Canowindra International Balloon Challenge, one of the Southern Hemisphere’s biggest and best hot-air balloon events 2. Boutique and local produce stores characterise the town of Millthorpe, just 20 minutes from Orange

3. Enjoy the hospitality on board Vintage Rail Journeys’ 1960s ex-Southern Aurora sleeping train

You can get a taste of Orange – along with a whole lot more of NSW – on Vintage Rail Journeys’ Golden West Rail Tour, which takes in Orange, Bathurst, Dubbo, the Hunter Valley, the Blue Mountains and more (vintagerailjourneys.com.au).

See what else Parkes has to Dish up

Parkes is best known for the Parkes Radio Telescope –aka “The Dish” – which helped broadcast images of the Apollo 11 Moon landing to the world and became the subject of a well-known Aussie film. But there’s so much more to this proud regional town. At Peak Hill, discover mining techniques both historic and new at the Peak Hill Gold Mine Experience. Continue north along the Newell Highway to Quentin Park Alpaca Farm for an up-close experience with some quirky South American mammals (quentinparkalpacas.com).

AT A GLANCE

Balloon Joy Flights

Canowindra

02 6344 1819 balloonjoyflights.com.au

Vintage Rail Journeys Golden West Rail Tour 1300 421 422 vintagerailjourneys.com.au

Amusu Theatre 0418 452 902 amusutheatre.com

Peak Hill Gold Mine 02 6862 6000

Quentin Park Alpaca Farm 0484 576 928 quentinparkalpacas.com

Back in Parkes itself, learn about local Indigenous culture at the Wiradjuri Amphitheatre & Bushtucker Garden. Or for fans of music history, see why Parkes is considered the Australian home of Elvis Presley with a visit to The King’s Castle exhibit at Henry Parkes Centre, a collection of Elvis artefacts owned by Greg Page (aka the Yellow Wiggle!). Parkes holds an Elvis Festival in January each year that attracts fans of the King of Rock from across the country.

Be struck by the offbeat style of Lightning Ridge

The town referred to by locals as “The Ridge” is one of the only places in the world where you can find the rare and valuable black opal, and this on its own makes it a popular stop for visitors to outback NSW. However, Lightning Ridge is also an eccentric, welcoming country town for anyone seeking a unique and authentic travel experience.

Begin your opal odyssey at the Australian Opal Centre, which houses arguably the world’s best public collection of opals, rare opalised fossils and opal-related geological samples. Head there in August and you can even take part in Fossil Digs headed by a team of fossil experts (australianopalcentre.com.au).

For the quirkier side of the Ridge, change it up with a visit to Amigo’s Castle, a Heritage-listed castle handbuilt (on his own!) by Lighting Ridge resident Mr Stefanato, aka ‘Amigo’ (amigoscastle.com.au). Keen for a self-guided day out? Try the brilliantly conceived Lightning Ridge Car Door Tours. Residents have marked the town’s most popular sights by nailing wrecked car doors to the streetside, spraypainted with directions for tour-takers. There are five tours – Green, Yellow, Blue, Red, Orange – and you can buy the self-guide handouts for $1 from the Lightning Ridge or Walgett Visitor Information Centres.

1. A man shows off opal fragments at the Sheepyard Inn, Lightning Ridge (Credit: Destination NSW)

2. Residents of Lightning Ridge use car doors to direct visitors to many of their town’s most popular sights

3. Parkes is known as the Elvis capital of Australia, hosting an annual festival and also home to a dedicated Elvis museum

Take a break at Broken Hill

In 2015, Broken Hill was officially named Australia’s first Heritage Listed city, and upon visiting it’s not hard to see why. Historic mines, astonishing outback landscapes and grand, character-filled old pubs – Broken Hill has so many stories to tell.

Highlights include Silverton Ghost Town, home to some 3,000 mining pioneers in the late 1800s and now a popular filming location; the awe-inspiring Living Desert & Sculpture Symposium, where you’ll find 12 sandstone sculptures that are perfect for photographers at sunset; and the sobering Line of Lode Miner’s Memorial, which recognises the lives lost in the town’s mining endeavours over the years. See all these sights and more on Silver City Tours’ 9-day, 8-night Broken Hill Wanderer Tour (silvercitytours.com.au). ■

AT A GLANCE

Wiradjuri Amphitheatre & Bushtucker Garden 02 6862 6000 (Parkes Visitor Information Centre)

The King’s Castle Museum (Henry Parkes Centre) 02 6862 6000 (Parkes Visitor Information Centre)

Australian Opal Centre 02 6829 1667 australianopalcentre.com

Amigo’s Castle 0447 307 865 amigoscastle.com.au

Silver City Tours 08 8087 6956 silvercitytours.com.au

Port Fairy Lighthouse, Great Ocean Road

VictoriaAlthough the smallest state on mainland Australia, Victoria overflows with unique travel experiences – from its fascinating pioneer past to diverse natural and cultural landmarks throughout. Highlights include the cosmopolitan capital Melbourne and the iconic Great Ocean Road, but Victoria is also home to historic goldfields, superb national parks, famous surf beaches, award-winning wineries, popular regional cities and towns, plus so much more. The southern state awaits your Club with open arms.

MELBOURNE

Welcome to Melbourne, truly one of the world’s most liveable cities and a cultural centrepiece of the nation. In Victoria’s thriving capital, access an unrivalled array of art, architecture, sport, food, public gardens, shopping and entertainment. Explore laneways and street art, discover Victorian-era arcades, watch a sporting contest at the MCG, or spend time enjoying international cuisine at world-class eateries.

Admire the old buildings…

The city of Melbourne is scattered with interesting heritage architecture. Must-see buildings include Parliament House (opened in 1856), the atmospheric Forum Theatre (built in 1929), iconic Flinders Street Station, the State Library of Victoria (established in 1854), the lavish ‘Gothic Bank’ on the corner of Collins and Queen Streets, and the magnificent Royal Exhibition Building (completed in 1880) – the first building in the country to be awarded UNESCO World Heritage status.

The Old Treasury Building on Spring Street – built in 1858-62 as a home for the Treasury Department of the Government of Victoria as well as the Governor In Council – is one of the city’s finest 19th-century buildings (oldtreasurybuilding.org.au). Probians can visit the exciting museum, which showcases the history of Melbourne and Victoria, and take a one-hour tour to view areas of the historic building that are inaccessible to the general public.

…and the new ones

Melbourne’s modern architecture stands out as well, including the impressive National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) building (ngv.vic.gov.au), built in 1968, and Eureka

1. The Old Treasury Building is one of Melbourne’s finest examples of 19th century architecture

2. The National Gallery of V ictoria is Australia’s oldest public art gallery

AT A GLANCE

Old Treasury Building 03 9651 2233 oldtreasurybuilding.org.au

National Gallery of Victoria 03 8620 2222 ngv.vic.gov.au

Indulge Your CurIosItY at the old treasurY BuIldIng

Join a personally guided tour of the historic Old Treasury Building to discover some of its treasures.

From the historic gold vaults where the precious metal was stored during the 1860s, to the changing temporary exhibitions, there is something to delight everyone. Long-term exhibitions focus on early Melbourne history, while temporary exhibitions include ‘Women Work for Victory in WWII’ and ‘Lost Jobs: The Changing World of Work’. Please see our website for detailed information.

Your one-hour tour will cater to your group’s specific interests. Specialised tours are available in history, architecture, art or a mix of all three! Content is flexible to suit differing requirements. There is step-free access and an internal lift.

Contact us today to discover how Old Treasury Building can fit into your social calendar. Fees apply.

Tower featuring Melbourne Skydeck, the highest observation deck in the Southern Hemisphere (melbourneskydeck.com.au), located on the 88th floor almost 300 metres above the ground. It perhaps goes without saying, but the views from the Skydeck are truly breathtaking.

There are many more eccentric buildings to see as well, from opinion-dividing Federation Square ( fedsquare.com) to the optical-illusion exterior of the Port 1010 Building on La Trobe Street and the striking RMIT Design Hub (designhub.rmit.edu.au) – covered in 17,000 automated circular glass panels that rotate according to the weather forecast.

Unlock Chinese history

The Chinese Museum is located in the Melbourne CBD’s Chinatown and aims to preserve Chinese culture throughout Australian history, and to celebrate the identity of Chinese-Australian people. The museum offers special guided tours and programs for groups of 10 or more where you can re-create life on the goldfields in the 1850s, discover three generations of Melbourne’s processional dragons and learn about the diverse histories of Chinese migrants (chinesemuseum.com.au).

See the best of the north-west

If your group fancies getting away from the CBD, a trip to Melbourne’s north-west will help you uncover a few hidden gems. Make your way to Keilor Village for a halfday at Overnewton Castle – built as a functional colonial homestead in 1849 but later transformed into a miniature Scottish Baronial Castle in the Victorian Tudor style (overnewtoncastle.com.au). Members can join a historic tour of the castle before enjoying a delightful high tea experience in its immaculate gardens.

A short drive away you’ll find the 300-acre Organ Pipes National Park – located at the easternmost edge of one of the world’s largest ancient volcanic lava flows – where amazing basalt columns hang on a cliff face over Jacksons Creek. Members can marvel at the unique geological formations from different walking paths and lookouts before relaxing with a picnic.

BARWON & GREAT SOUTH COAST

Making your way south-west from Melbourne through Barwon, your Club will love the opportunity to take in Victoria’s celebrated Surf Coast. Further along the Great Ocean Road, soak up stunning views all the way to Port Campbell, then on to the seafaring city of Warrnambool, the charming village of Port Fairy and the lighthouse on Griffiths Island.

Experience Gunditjmara country

Take a guided cultural tour of Budj Bim Cultural Landscape, one of the largest and oldest aquaculture networks in the world. Covering an estimated 7,000 square kilometres, Gunditjmara Country occupies the south-western corner of Victoria. The site is UNESCO World Heritage listed for its outstanding universal value, with its ancient aquaculture systems first constructed at least 6,600 years ago. The region is renowned for its age-old lava flows and life-filled waterways, as well as the remains of over 300 Aboriginal stone houses. Here you’ll discover a vibrant Indigenous culture through shared stories and see the landscape through Gunditjmara eyes from raised boardwalks designed to highlight and preserve the precious natural environment (budjbim.com.au).

Travel the Shipwreck Coast

Forming part of the Great Ocean Road, the Shipwreck Coast spans around 130km from Moonlight Head –believed to be the headland seen by Captain Matthew Flinders from the Investigator during a break in poor weather in April, 1802 – to the small fishing village of Port

1. The Cape Otway Lighthouse is the oldest surviving lighthouse on mainland Australia and arguably its most significant

2. Take a guided walk of the Budj Bim Cultural Landscape to learn more about the Gunditjmara people, culture and relationship with the land

Fairy. Home to the famous limestone formations, the Twelve Apostles, this dramatic and intriguing stretch of coast is thought to have around 700 shipwrecked vessels submerged in its waters. The anchors of two ships that ran aground, Marie Gabrielle and the Fiji, are visible from Wreck Beach. Members may choose to visit the Cape Otway Lighthouse, affectionately nicknamed the ‘Beacon of Hope’ due to its pivotal role guiding ships to land along the treacherous coastline. Your Club can experience the highlights of this remarkable coastline with AAT Kings’ Great Ocean Road & the Twelve Apostles full-day tour (aatkings.com).

AT A GLANCE

Budj Bim Cultural Landscape 03 4504 2193 budjbim.com.au

AAT Kings’ Great Ocean Road & the Twelve Apostles full-day tour 1300 300 911 aatkings.com/tours

WIMMERA MALLEE

Widely regarded as the agricultural heart of Victoria, Wimmera Mallee is the state’s very own wild west. The region is home to charming townships, natural wonders and a variety of rural attractions – from the rugged Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park to the increasingly popular Wimmera Mallee Silo Art Trail between Rupanyup and Goroke, through sheep and wool farming territory. Your Club will experience the best of the Wimmera Mallee Region – including silo murals, salt lakes, homesteads and sunsets – on a 5-day, 4-night coach tour with Trade Travel (tradetravel.com.au).

Visit the pioneer museum in Jeparit

If you love a good museum, the Wimmera-Mallee Pioneer Museum is definitely one to add to the list. Nestled on the banks of the Wimmera River in Jeparit, the four-hectare grounds of the museum are home to authentic early pioneer buildings with an extensive range of heritage collections including domestic items and agricultural equipment. The museum features the Albacutya Homestead, originally built on Albacutya Run, the region’s first sheep station.

Make your way to Murtoa

A quaint country town built around tranquil Lake Marma, Murtoa packs a whole lot of punch for a place with a population of less than 1,000. Here you can visit the Stick Shed, previously Murtoa No. 1 Grain Store and the only remaining grain store built during World War II. Learn the story behind its unique construction – it gets its name from the 560 unmilled, 19-metre-high Mountain Ash poles, or ‘sticks’, that support its structure – and the role it has played in both wartime history and Australian history more generally (thestickshed.com.au). While you’re in Murtoa, arrange a tour of the Murtoa Water Tower Museum or head up the road to Rupanyup to Woods’ Farming & Heritage Museum.

1. The Grampians (Gariwerd) National Park is renowned for its striking sandstone mountain ranges

2. Admire the unique timber pole construction of Murtoa’s Stick Shed

Fly through the decades in Nhill

Established to capture the town of Nhill’s proud aviation history, the Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre pays ongoing tribute to the 10,000-plus young men and women who trained and worked at the Nhill RAAF Base during World War II (nhillaviationheritagecentre.com.au). The site is currently home to five aircraft including an airworthy Tiger Moth and an almost completely rebuilt Avro Anson – a British twin-engine, multi-role aircraft that served in numerous air forces.

AT A GLANCE

Trade Travel 5-day 4-night Wimmera Mallee tour 1800 034 439 tradetravel.com.au

Wimmera-Mallee Pioneer Museum 03 5397 2101

Nhill Aviation Heritage Centre 0490 657 770 nhillaviationheritage centre.com.au

Murtoa Water Tower Museum 0437 920 734

The Stick Shed 0434 227 921 stickshed.com.au

Woods Farming & Heritage Museum 0427 159 154

CENTRAL HIGHLANDS & LODDON CAMPASPE

The Central Highlands and Loddon Campaspe, sitting alongside north-west Melbourne, is home to the historic Victorian Goldfields and the famous story of the Eureka Stockade. Beyond the bustling regional cities of Ballarat and Bendigo, don’t miss out on natural highlights like Lerderderg State Park.

Wander around Kyneton

Situated in the Macedon Ranges of Victoria, Kyneton is an ideal base from which to explore the region’s diverse landscapes, but the picturesque town is a special destination in its own right. Historic Piper Street is lined with new and vintage clothing boutiques, homewares, art galleries and garden nurseries, while Mollison and High Streets are where you’ll find an assortment of gifts and books. Alternatively, set off for a stroll under the shade of the oak trees on the Campaspe River walk.

At the Kyneton Museum – housed in a Heritage Victoria listed building that was built in 1856 as a bank – members can see an excellent mix of collections and changing exhibitions in the original banking chamber, while outdoor exhibits include original bluestone stables.

In September each year, the Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival is a highlight of the region’s exciting annual events calendar for locals and visitors alike. The festival program includes the popular One Act Plays, art and photography exhibitions, crafts, antiques and the always-fun Dog Dash (kynetondaffodilarts.org.au).

Escape to Hepburn Springs

Ready to put your feet up and relax in style? It’s time for a trip to the ‘spa capital’ of Australia. In the resort town of Hepburn Springs – situated in the middle of the country’s largest concentration of mineral springs – members can truly unwind as they soak up health-giving minerals at one of many popular bathhouses. There are a number of leisurely walks to enjoy at Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve, the Mount Franklin Loop, and The Blowhole – a small, circular tunnel cut by gold miners through the side of the hill on Sailors Creek that blows hard when the river rises.

Step back in time in Ballarat

History abounds in Ballarat. Pan for gold at Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum that brings to life the gold rush of the 1850s (sovereignhill.com.au). Visit the Eureka Centre, located on the site of the Eureka Stockade, the famous miners’ rebellion that occurred in 1854. It features the Eureka Flag, one of Australia’s most compelling historical artefacts (eurekacentreballarat.com.au). Or go even further back in history at Kryal Castle, a replica medieval castle with knights, live shows and even jousting (kryalcastle.com.au).

1. Old-time musicians perform on the side of the streets at Sovereign Hill, an open-air museum depicting life during the 1850s Gold Rush

2. Enjoy the colourful sights and sounds of the annual Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival

3. The famous Eureka Flag on display at Ballarat’s Eureka Centre

Kyneton Musem 03 5422 1228

AT A GLANCE

Eureka Centre 03 5333 0333 eurekacentreballarat.com.au

Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival kynetondaffodilarts.org.au

Sovereign Hill 03 5337 1199 sovereignhill.com.au

Kryal Castle 03 5334 8500 kryalcastle.com.au

A L L A B O A R D T H E W A L H A L L A G O L D F I E L D S R A I L W A Y

Riding the Walhalla Goldfields Railway is an unforgettable experience and your chance to explore one of Australia's most lovingly maintained historical mining towns.

Every season brings new scenery as the train winds through picturesque Stringers Gorge, offering breathtaking views from the historic trestle bridge at Thomson Station Wildflowers, birds, autumn leaves, rock walls and crystal clear streams will leave you with memories that will last a lifetime.

We welcome all groups and parties and can tailor your trip and our services to suit We can also offer exclusive use of the train for larger bookings. Please call us on (03) 5165 6280 to discuss your needs.

B E C O M E A V O L U N T E E R

The railway is run by volunteers and you are welcome to join our team or to become a member. Please contact us to find out more.

GIPPSLAND

The diverse region of Gippsland, which extends from Melbourne’s eastern suburbs all the way to the New South Wales border, welcomes nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts and those with an interest in heritage architecture or fine wine. Highlights include the Mornington Peninsula, Wilsons Promontory National Park and fabulous Phillip Island, but there’s so much to see beyond the well-known destinations.

Discover heritage towns

Gippsland is home to wonderful old towns and original goldmining communities. Visit Walhalla, a lovingly restored town at the base of the Great Dividing Range, where some of the world’s richest gold mines once welcomed over 4,000 gold seekers. Soak in the scenery on the Walhalla Goldfields Railway as you weave your way through picturesque Stringers Gorge (walhallarail.com.au). Elsewhere, check out Port Albert, a major port in the early days of settlement carrying supplies shipped in for the goldfields, and the open-air Coal Creek Community Park and Museum at the recreated coal mining village of Coal Creek (coalcreekcommunityparkandmuseum.com).

Tour the Tarra Valley

The Tarra Valley is a magical rainforest in the Strzelecki Ranges, a set of low mountain ridges located in the West Gippsland and South Gippsland regions. In Tarra-Bulga National Park, visitors can wander many beautiful walking paths through giant mountain ash trees and ancient myrtle beeches. Make sure you get as far as Corrigan Suspension Bridge, which stretches through the rainforest canopy, affording incredible views of the lush fern gully on the forest floor below.

Sample South Gippsland

There are more than 20 cool climate wineries to visit in the wine regions of South and Central Gippsland. At awardwinning Toms Cap Vineyard (tomscapvineyard.com.au), nestled high in the Strzelecki Ranges, members can absorb sublime views of Ninety Mile Beach while tasting one of the region’s finest drops. If you have time to explore, add an afternoon at cascading Agnes Falls or hop aboard a boat to cruise the man-made canal from the Port of Sale to the iconic La Trobe Swing Bridge, built in 1883 by the Victorian Government and the oldest surviving swing bridge in Australia.

See all that Phillip Island has to offer

It may be known for its Penguin Parade, but there’s so much more to Phillip Island. Immerse yourself in nature as you wander the wetlands of Rhyll Inlet and spot wading birds that have flown in from thousands of miles away. Remember, interpret and understand the experience of veterans of Australia’s longest war at the National Vietnam Veterans Museum (vietnamvetsmuseum.org). Or, to see it all from above, absorb the beautiful landscape and majestic Victorian coastline on a flight with Phillip Island Helicopters ( pih.com.au).

1. All aboard the Walhalla Goldfields Railway, which departs historic Walhalla for an unforgettable Gippsland rail journey

2. The National Vietnam Veterans Museum on Phillip Island is an independent museum dedicated to the heritage and legacy of our Vietnam War veterans

3. A beautiful sulphurcrested cockatoo with its keeper at Healesville Sanctuary

Walhalla Goldfields Railway 03 5165 6280 walhallarail.com.au

AT A GLANCE

National Vietnam Veterans Museum 03 5956 6400 vietnamvetsmuseum.org

Coal Creek Community Park and Musem 03 5655 1811 coalcreekcommunity parkandmuseum.com

Toms Cap Vineyard 03 5194 2215 tomscapvineyard.com.au

Phillip Island Helicopters 03 5956 7316 pih.com.au

Healesville Sanctuary 1300 966 784 zoo.org.au/healesville

Blue Lotus Water Garden 03 5967 2061 bluelotusfarm.com.au

YARRA VALLEY & DANDENONG RANGES

For fine wine, gourmet produce, lovely mountain vistas and tranquil forest walks, look no further than the Yarra Valley and Dandenong Ranges – located less than an hour’s drive east of Melbourne. Discover the magic of the Dandenongs on a scenic drive along the region’s winding roads, stopping for relaxation and refreshment at award-winning wineries and boutique eateries.

Head to Healesville Sanctuary

Explore a bushland haven for Australian wildlife at Healesville Sanctuary, where an expert ranger will be waiting to share stories of unique and unusual native wildlife. The sanctuary is nestled near Coranderrk Bushland Reserve, a restricted area of native vegetation that protects 250+ species of birds, mammals, reptiles, frogs and fish (zoo.org.au/healesville)

See splendid seasonal gardens

One of Australia’s premier seasonal gardens awaits Club members at the Blue Lotus Water Garden, Yarra Junction, open from 26 December to mid-April each year. Spanning 14 acres, the tropical-themed gardens are home to more than 40 different ponds, lakes and water features – producing the largest display of lotus and waterlily flowers in the Southern Hemisphere. The grounds also contain an impressive array of exotic plants, garden exhibits, floral sculptures, fountains, scenic walks and more (bluelotusfarm.com.au).

GOULBURN & OVENS MURRAY

There’s plenty to savour on a glorious getaway to the Goulburn and Ovens Murray region in north-east Victoria. From your base in Bright or Beechworth, explore other nearby towns, visit local wineries, or simply enjoy the fresh air and lovely vistas as you take it easy in the highlands.

Spend time in Beechworth

Charming Beechworth is a jewel in the crown of eastern Victoria. The well-preserved historic town is known for its significant growth during the gold rush days of the mid1850s, but these days Beechworth is also worth visiting for its acclaimed food and wine scene as well the welcoming hospitality at its cafes, pubs, restaurants and breweries.

On a walking tour, members can visit the Beechworth Historic Precinct featuring the Burke Museum, Courthouse, Telegraph Station and more – each with its own unique stories to share. Or put the ‘bee’ in Beechworth with a visit to the Beechworth Honey Shop, which hosts over 40 Australian single varietal honeys to taste (beechworthhoney.com.au).

1. Probians enjoy a tour of the North East Victoria Silo Art Trail, stopping here at Devenish

2. Have a sweet time at Beechworth Honey Shop trying over 40 varietals of Australian honey

3. Don’t miss the historic Beechworth Courthouse

Roll along to Ovens Valley

In north-east Victoria’s alpine region, a journey through Ovens Valley will not disappoint. The Ovens River, flanked by sandy beaches, is popular for swimming, canoeing and fishing. From farm gate to restaurant, the seasonal produce here is also truly mouth-watering. For a taste of what the area has to offer, visit Pepo Farms, home of the Australian Pumpkin Seed Company – the country’s first and only pumpkin seed growers and producers of fine artisan oils ( pepofarms.com.au).

AT A GLANCE

Pepo

Hara House (formerly Ovens Valley Motor Inn) 03 5755 2022 harahouse.com.au

For a longer stay, keep an eye out for Hara House, formerly the Ovens Valley Motor Inn, a recently redeveloped and reimagined boutique accommodation that’s reopening in 2023 (ovensvalleymotorinn.com.au). It’s only a few kilometres from the Bright Art Gallery and Cultural Centre (brightartgallery.org.au).

Follow the North East Victoria Silo Art Trail Silo art displays have emerged all over Australia, and northeast Victoria has some of the best. Starting in Benalla, this self-driven trip heads north through Goorambat, Devenish, St James and Tungamah before looping back down for a sixth stop in Winton Wetlands. Visit bit.ly/3fjaAmh to download the North East Victoria Silo Art Trail map. ■

2023

HIGH COUNTRY HOLIDAYS

THE ULTIMATE 5 DAY TOURING EXPERIENCE

PRESENTED BY HARA HOUSE, BRIGHT’S ONLY BOUTIQUE HOTEL

Make 2023 extra special with this amazing tour hosted by Shannon and Simeon Crawley at their latest hotel venture, the beautiful Hara House. You’ll explore all this beautiful region has to offer and relax in the comfort and style only Shannon can provide.

As a very special Touring Guest at Hara House, you’ll enjoy:

Tastefully updated rooms • King size AH Beard bed • En-suite bathroom • Complimentary Mini-Bar • Complimentary electric bike hire • Special Food and Wine tastings • Complimentary drink on arrival • Delicious chef-prepared breakfasts and 3 course dinners

Your very special Tour Package also includes local commentary, attractions, morning teas, bonus lunches, pick up from Melbourne or Sydney (plus other locations upon request).

Tangalooma Wrecks, Moreton Island

Queensland

With a spectacular 7,000km coastline and the world’s oldest rainforest, Queensland draws thousands of visitors every year to its idyllic beaches and islands as well as its stunning natural wonders. But the Sunshine State also boasts a vast outback and some fascinating small towns brimming with history. If your Club is looking for a diverse travel experience, why not put Queensland at the top of the list?

BRISBANE & MORETON

Queensland’s vibrant riverside capital, Brisbane, is an ideal starting point to tour the stunning south-east of the state. It has undergone massive transformation to become one of Australia’s most desirable travel destinations, as well as a gateway to the beautiful Moreton Bay region just 25km from the city. Plus you can experience all the excitement of the Gold Coast with its popular theme parks, only a short journey south.

Try Brisbane’s shopping, art and gardens

Start your Brisbane experience with a great specialty coffee before you browse the shops along Queen Street, or the high-end luxury stores of Edward Street. Tour Queensland’s first public and Heritage Listed building, the grand Old Government House, to enjoy its restored 1860s architecture (ogh.qut.edu.au). Meanwhile, QUT Art Museum houses over 3,000 contemporary artworks including paintings, sculptures and ceramics (artmuseum.qut.edu.au). It’s located next to the lovely City Botanic Gardens, where you can find both guided and self-guided walks through a riverside urban oasis – all within walking distance of the CBD.

Make your way to Moreton Bay

Moreton Bay was declared a Marine Park in 1993 in order to protect the unique value and biodiversity of this region, which stretches 125km from Caloundra to the Gold Coast. Moreton Island is the third-largest sand island in the world and truly a gem of the south-east. Experience crystal-clear

1. Serene Japanese Gardens is a highlight of any trip to Toowoomba

2. The Gunsynd statue commemorates the famous Australia horse also known as the ‘Goondiwindi Grey’

3. Chinchilla is known as the Melon Capital of Australia and recently immortalised its reputation with installation of the ‘Big Melon’

4. Discover the achievements of Australia’s pioneer military aviators at the Australian Army Flying Museum

5. The Tangalooma Wrecks are a popular snorkelling and kayaking spot off Moreton Island

lakes and lagoons, steep sand dunes, wildflowers and pristine beaches. See dolphins, whales and shorebirds, or snorkel among mysterious wrecks if you’re feeling more energetic. Whether you take a day trip or embark on a multi-day tour, Moreton Island is an unforgettable experience.

DARLING DOWNS

Travelling west of Brisbane and Moreton Bay you’ll reach the rich farming region of the Darling Downs, on the western slopes of the Great Dividing Range. Incorporating the Southern and Western Downs, as well as the popular town of Toowoomba – where great attractions like the traditionally built Japanese Garden await – there’s so much for your members to see and do throughout this region.

Visit the Western Darling Downs

Visit ‘Big Sky Country’ on a trip to Western Darling Downs. Oakey is home to the country’s largest aviation museum, the Australian Army Flying Museum. Housing 22 aircraft on display, plus a number undergoing restoration, it’ll fascinate aviation history buffs (armyflyingmuseum.com.au). Chinchilla is the melon capital of Australia, producing 25 per cent of the country’s watermelons, rockmelons and honeydew melons. It celebrates its reputation with the biennial Chinchilla Melon Festival. And Dalby’s Pioneer Park Museum is home to Queensland’s largest collection of working tractors and big farm equipment, such as an 1800s working thresher, a 1930s model reaper and a pre-war hay baler (dalbymuseum.com.au).

Discover the Southern Downs

Delve into the pioneering history of the Southern Downs. Considered a scenic gem of the Downs, Killarney boasts waterfalls, lakes, gorges and lookouts aplenty. But don’t miss the Killarney Heritage Centre, located in the old Commercial Bank building. Here you’ll find records of the early settlers, loggers, agricultural and family histories, artefacts, books and photographs.

Go to Goondiwindi

In this rich agricultural region you can discover the fascinating history of cotton production in Australia from field to fabric. The iconic Gunsynd memorial statue commemorates the legendary racehorse Gunsynd, known as the ‘Goondiwindi Grey’, possibly Australia’s most famous horse after Phar Lap. Goondiwindi Customs House Museum is located on the Queensland/NSW state border. Established to collect customs duties for goods coming into and out of Queensland prior to Federation, it’s the only inland customs house in Australia still in existence.

Old Government House 07 3138 8005 ogh.qut.edu.au QUT Art Museum 07 3138 5370 artmuseum.qut.edu.au

WIDE BAY-BURNETT, FITZROY AND MACKAY

As you make your way north you’ll pass through the Wide Bay-Burnett region extending from the Sunshine Coast to Bundaberg. It’s the gateway to stunning Fraser Island, but has so much else to offer enthusiastic travellers – from natural wonders to the cities of Bundaberg, Gympie, Hervey Bay and Maryborough, and plenty in between. Further north are the Fitzroy and Mackay regions, each with their own treasures.

Make time for Maryborough

This tiny town on the Fraser Coast oozes colonial-era charm. Aside from being the celebrated birthplace of P.L. Travers, author of Mary Poppins, there’s a lot to see and do here. The free Gallipoli to Armistice Memorial traces the birth of the ANZAC legend, drawn from personal perspectives of those who fought on the front line. The self-guided Maryborough Mural Trail has approximately 27 large-scale murals and installations adorning buildings and industrial sites, capturing the stories of Maryborough’s rich past (maryboroughmuralproject.org). Hop aboard the Mary Ann Steam Train, a full-size replica of the first steam locomotive built in Queensland in 1873 (maryboroughwhistlestop.org.au). Or for animal lovers, the Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary lets visitors interact with and learn about Australia’s largest landbased predator, the dingo ( frasercoastwildlifesanctuary.org.au).

1. The Mary Ann Steam Train is a full-size replica of Queensland’s first steam locomotive

2. The Maheno Shipwreck is one of many highlights of the beautiful Fraser Coast

3. Savour the sweet sights, tastes and smells on a tour of Sarina Sugar Shed’s distillery

4. Paronella Park is an award-winning Spanish-style castle located near Innisfail

Travel the Capricorn Coast

It’s time to take a tour of the captivating Capricorn Coast. Starting in Rockhampton, you’ll see the beautiful Heritage Listed St Joseph’s Cathedral. To the east lies Emu Park, a quaint coastal town where highlights include Double Head, the Turtle Lookout at scenic Bluff Point, and the famous Singing Ship monument – a majestic sculpture commemorating the area’s legacy of historical explorations. Nearby Causeway Lake is another worthwhile destination. Travel to Koorana Crocodile farm, the first commercial croc farm in Queensland (koorana.com.au), and experience the serenity of Capricorn Caves, a large privately owned cave system (capricorncaves.com.au). The sea breeze produces a musical sound through its fluted pipes. Nob Creek Pottery is a working studio that excels in quality craft, art and sculptural work from over 45 artists (nobcreekpottery.com.au). For food enthusiasts, a paddock-to-plate dining experience and cooking demonstration is something to savour in this region. If all this takes your fancy, Trade Travel’s 6-day, 5-night Capricorn Coast Discovery and Food Trail is guaranteed to be a popular choice for your Club (tradetravel.com.au).

Savour a taste of Mackay

Sweet tooths will relish a trip to sugar capital Mackay, home to the Sarina Sugar Shed. Enjoy a guided tour where you’ll learn how sugarcane is grown, processed and milled. End your visit at the Sugar Shed Cafe where members can indulge in ice creams and refreshing ginger beer or a cheese and tasting platter (sarinasugarshed.com.au). Inland

from Mackay and high above the surrounding plains, check out the ecologically diverse Eungella National Park, a habitat for rare frogs and platypuses ( parks.des.qld.gov.au/ parks/eungella).

NORTH QUEENSLAND

Arguably rivalling anywhere in Australia for natural beauty, North Queensland is one of our most beloved tourism destinations, home to stunning landscapes, idyllic towns and warm Queensland hospitality.

Be surprised by Paronella Park

For a truly unique experience take a day or night tour of award-winning Paronella Park, 120km south of Cairns and 20km south of Innisfail. After arriving from Catalonia in 1913, Jose Paronella’s dream was to create a Spanish-style castle on five hectares beside Mena Creek Falls. His dream became a reality in 1935 and this wonderland still has something for everyone, from its remarkable architecture and story to the tropical gardens and wildlife and a fully restored 1930s hydro electric generator – not to mention food and accommodation ( paronellapark.com.au).

Journey from Cairns to Cape York

AAT Kings offers a 3-day Cairns to Cape York return tour that is truly special. The Cape Tribulation and Cooktown Wanderer tour takes you on a Daintree River cruise and guided tour of historical Cooktown. Visit the Cooktown Museum and Nature’s Powerhouse, an innovative building located in the beautiful, heritage-listed Cooktown Botanic Gardens. It houses the Vera Scarth-Johnson Art Gallery with the only collection of original botanical illustrations of flora from the region (aatkings.com.au).

Get the boat to Green Island

For members who are new to island travel, Green Island off the coast of Cairns is the perfect place to start. It’s one of only three true coral cays in the Great Barrier Reef, with sheltered snorkelling right off the beach. Whether you take a half or full day trip, or a resort holiday, you can explore the coral cay and rainforest, while also enjoying a range of entertainment and dining experiences. The Visit Green Island information centre (visitgreenisland.com.au) is a great place to begin.

CENTRAL WEST & SOUTH WEST

For a quintessential Australian experience, leave the coastal regions and head out to Queensland’s iconic outback, with its fascinating history, red hills, and unique flora and fauna. See the main Central West towns of Longreach, Winton, Blackall and Barcaldine, or the South West towns of Charleville, Roma, Augathella, Windorah, Thargomindah, St George and Cunnamulla.

Stop by Barcaldine

In the Central West, take the self-guided walk, ‘Between the Bougainvilleas’, an award-winning heritage trail passing through the town of Barcaldine’s significant historical sites. The trail is loaded with facts, stories and original photographs. Make sure your Club sees the Tree of Knowledge, renowned as the birthplace of the Australian Labour movement. Although poisoned in 2006, the tree is now splendidly preserved under an impressive timber structure and comes alive at night through the magic of modern lighting (treeofknowledge.com.au/history.htm). For hungry travellers, Barcaldine also has a reputation for mouth-watering pies, cakes, slices and fresh-baked bread, including the locals’ favourite ‘Barcy pie’. And if wildlife spotting is on your agenda, sprawling Lara Wetlands is a 16-acre oasis with approximately 200 bird species (larawetlands.com.au).

Tour the South West outback

Queensland’s South West outback is a wash of colour, open spaces, national parks, lakes and rivers, and of course abundant native bird life. Experience the excitement of a real cattle auction at Roma Saleyards, discover the history and unique landscapes of Quilpie on a locally guided tour with a fifth-generation pioneering family, and learn about Quilpie’s First Nation Maranganji people. Spend an idyllic morning on the Thomson River, part of Lake Eyre Basin. And who could resist the Charleville Bilby Experience? You’ll see adorable bilbies during their night-time activities and learn about the efforts made by passionate volunteers to save the bilby from extinction. Outback Aussie Tours (outbackaussietours.com.au) runs a 7-day Channel Country Discovery tour covering all these outback adventures and more. ■

Highlights: 4 unique rail journeys - Tilt Train, Spirit of the Outback, Gulflander & Savannahlander; Capricorn Caves; Longreach attractions; Kronosaurus Korner; Gulf Sunset Cruise; Cobbold Gorge Cruise & Tour; Undara Lava Tubes; Woodleigh Station Highlights: Daintree Rainforest & Discovery Centre; Bana Yirriji Art & Cultural Centre; Bloomfield Track; James Cook Museum; Split Rock Galleries Guided Tour; Gulf Eco Cruise; Moreton Telegraph Station; Fruit Bat Falls; The Tip of Cape York; Horn & Thursday Island

Highlights: Rosebank Station Smoko Tour; Qantas Founders Museum & Airpark Tour; Drover’s Sunset Cruise; Outback Stockman’s Show; Camden Park Station Dinner Tour; Carisbrooke Station Tour & Dinosaur Stampede; Australian Age of Dinosaurs Tour & BBQ

Highlights: Bilby Experience; Cosmos Centre; Noccundra Hotel; Cameron Corner; Burke & Wills Dig Tree; Innamincka Hotel; Kings Marker; Big Red (Dune) Sunset; Birdsville Hotel; Boulia Min Min Encounter; Waltzing Matilda Centre; Longreach attractions

Highlights: Longreach attractions; Waltzing Matilda Centre; Middleton Hotel & Cawnpore Lookout; Min Min Encounter; Birdsville Hotel; Big Red (Dune) Sunset; Dreamtime Serpent Art Sculpture; Eromanga Natural History Museum; Bilby Experience; Cosmos Centre

Highlights: Desert Dreaming Centre;

of Knowledge; Wellshot Hotel; Waltzing Matilda Centre; Australian Age of Dinosaurs Tour & BBQ; Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame; Camden Park Station Dinner Tour; Qantas Founders & Airpark Tour; Smithy’s Sunset Cruise

Sugarloaf Rock, Margaret River

Western Australia

Home to truly magnificent landscapes and rich in history and culture, Western Australia is a vast state well worthy of deeper exploration. Discover world-class beaches and ancient landmarks showcasing nature at its finest, all while enjoying some of the best fresh produce and wine in the country. It’s time to find out why everyone raves about the wild west.

PERTH

Welcome to Perth, Western Australia’s relaxed capital, where city beaches – all 19 of them – and scenic parks meet a buzzing culture of bars, restaurants and art. Using Perth as a base, your Club is spoiled for choice across the state. To get real bang for your travel buck in Perth and beyond, consider Trade Travel’s 11-day WA Discovery Tour that includes some of the highlights of WA, including Perth’s Kings Park and Rottnest Island, the Monkey Mia dolphin experience, Kalbarri National Park Skywalk, the Pinnacles, a Swan Valley winery and so much more (tradetravel.com.au).

Wander around Kings Park

Explore a 400-hectare native park right in the heart of the city. Take in the incredible views of Perth and the Swan River in an urban green space that’s bigger than New York’s Central Park. The WA Botanic Garden sits within the park – enjoy a free walking tour and see one of the park’s main attractions, a 36-tonne boab tree said to be 750 years old. Stroll the bushland trails where the park comes alive with a carpet of flowers during the wildflower season (between late July and early October).

Visit the Perth Cultural Centre

Discover top-class entertainment in this vibrant precinct that houses the Art Gallery of WA (artgallery.wa.gov.au), WA Museum Boola Bardip (visit.museum.wa.gov.au/

1. Around 10 per cent of Rottnest Island’s total area is covered by lakes

2. Toodyay is home to the Free Range Emu Farm, the oldest working emu farm in the world

3. Lake Grace, in Western Australia’s Wheatbelt, is known for its salt-lake-dotted farming landscape

4. A SeaLink ferry docks at Rottnest Island

boolabardip), the State Theatre Centre, and Blue Room Theatre – Western Australia’s home of independent theatre and performance (blueroom.org.au).

Take the Rottnest Island ferry

All aboard the modern and eco-friendly SeaLink ferry (sealinkrottnest.com.au) to the unmissable Rottnest Island, only 19km off the coast of Perth and a fast ride from Fremantle. This protected nature reserve offers beaches and secluded coves, as well as walking and cycle trails. But its most notable resident is the quokka, a small wallaby-like marsupial that can be seen hopping around the island. While you’re here, learn about the island’s Indigenous heritage on a Wadjemup (the local Indigenous name for Rottnest Island) guided island tour, and meander along the Lakes Boardwalk. Scattered across the island you’ll also find remnants of Rottnest’s military past from both Word War I and Word War II.

WHEATBELT

The 154,000 square kilometre Wheatbelt wraps around the Perth and Peel regions in the south-west of the state. Experience its historical townships, pioneering history, rich agricultural areas and abundance of wildflowers. It’s a drawcard for world-famous Wave Rock, while Dryandra Woodland National Park is one of Western Australia’s most important wildlife preservation areas.

Meet emus at Toodyay

Toodyay is one of the oldest inland towns in Western Australia, with much of its colonial and convict heritage preserved. The popular tourist destination is set in the heart of the pretty Avon Valley. Just 14km from town you can visit the Free Range Emu Farm. Walk among the flocks of emus on the oldest working emu farm in the world, and purchase emu products including carved eggs, emu oil, cosmetics, feathers and leather at the farm shop.

Meander around Merredin

There’s plenty to see in Merredin, including the Merredin Railway Museum, located at the original 1895 railway station and recognised as one of the best railway museums in Australia, with exhibits such as a beautifully preserved 1897 G117 steam engine ( facebook.com/merredinrailway).

See the heritage-listed Art Deco Cummins Theatre (cumminstheatre.com.au), and the Merredin Military Museum with its historic working military vehicles. The CBH Wheat Storage and Transfer Depot houses the largest grain storage bin in the Southern Hemisphere, and the silos have been transformed into artworks by a renowned Perth artist as part of the Public Silo Art Trail.

Look out over Lake Grace

From the township, the Lake Grace Lookout provides spectacular panoramic views over the vast inland salt-lake system of Lake Grace, over 50km in length. When the lake is full, it offers a dazzling display of colour in pink, mauve and green hues. Created by a combination of high salinity and salt-loving algae, the lake is rimmed by samphire and tall paperbark trees. Even in their dry state, there are splendid photo opportunities.

AT A GLANCE

SOUTH WEST & GREAT SOUTHERN

The South West and Great Southern region has something for everyone. Lovely Margaret River is one of the most popular destinations here, but many wonderful experiences await – from unspoiled coastlines and idyllic seaside towns to sprawling agricultural lands and national parks filled with rare species of flora and fauna.

Admire Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse

Situated at the most south-westerly point of Australia, where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet, the tallest lighthouse on the mainland is a must-see for your Club. Take a trip through maritime history and learn how this famous limestone landmark was constructed. It still functions as a working lighthouse for vessels navigating the treacherous cape, and at the right time of year you may even spot a whale.

Explore Ngilgi Cave

Explore the ancient wonders of Ngilgi Cave (Aboriginal for ‘good spirit’), located just north of Yallingup. Take a semiguided tour through stunning limestone formations and visit an interpretive area to discover Ngilgi Cave’s interesting history, gaining deeper insight into the early days of cave exploration in the area (margaretriverattractions.com/caves/ngilgi-cave).

Follow the map to Manjimup

Here is one for the foodies. The forested areas surrounding Manjimup may have begun as timber country, but today the town is best known for its fresh produce and fine food experiences. The famous ‘Pink Lady’ apple was developed here, and it’s also home to Australia’s first mainland truffles. Visit during one of the renowned food events, such as the Manjimup Cherry Harmony Festival, when locals and visitors truly paint the town red (cherryfestival.com.au).

Scale the Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk

A 45-minute drive west of picturesque Denmark – located on the banks of the beautiful Denmark River – members can enjoy the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, a 600-metre long circular walkway that reaches up into the tingle forest canopy (valleyofthegiants.com.au/listing/tree-top-walk). See karri, jarrah and tingle trees that are hundreds of years old, and get a magnificent view of the Frankland River at the Mount Frankland Wilderness Lookout.

GOLDFIELDS-ESPERANCE

The Goldfields-Esperance region in the south-east corner of Western Australia boasts coastal zone featuring a range of stunning natural attractions, while inland its mining zone offers a unique experience for visitors.

1. Soak in the views over Murchison River Gorge on the Kalbarri Skywalk

2. See stalagmites, stalactites, helictites and more at Ngilgi Cave

3. Cape Leeuwin is the tallest lighthouse on mainland Australia

4. Delicious cherries at the Manjimup Cherry Harmony Festival

5. The Valley of the Giants Treetop Walk takes you 40 metres above the forest floor

6. Three of the world’s seven marine turtle species can be found at Ningaloo Reef

Walk the Kepwari Wetland Trail

The town of Esperance flourished with the discovery of gold in the late 19th century, and with its access to Cape Le Grand National Park, it’s now a favourite destination. Just a few minutes’ drive from the town is Kepwari Wetland Trail. The interpretive trail runs 3.6km and introduces you to the significance of wetlands and their protection. The trail winds through heathland and banksia, and over dune ridges, with wonderful views of the wetland system and surrounding catchment.

Enjoy the Kalgoorlie-Boulder Audio Walking Tour

This fascinating tour encompasses more than 50 different sites in and around Kalgoorlie and Boulder, including heritage buildings, the WA School of Mines and the Super Pit Lookout, where members can gaze into the biggest gold mines (600 metres deep) in Australia, and one of the largest open-cut mines in the world (superpit.com.au/community/ lookout). Pick up a headset at the Kalgoorlie Boulder Visitor Centre and set off on your adventure (kalgoorlietourism.com/ kalgoorlie-boulder-audio-walking-tour).

MID WEST & GASCOYNE

This region runs from Green Head to Kalbarri and more than 800km inland to Wiluna in the Gibson Desert, encompassing around one-third of Western Australia.

Encounter marine life at Ningaloo Reef

Some 1,200km north of Perth, Ningaloo Reef is considered a highlight of Western Australian travel. At this UNESCO World Heritage Listed site, the whale sharks are the real attraction. One of the world’s largest aggregations can be found here, and they are joined by manta rays, turtles or humpback whales during their migration.

Marvel at Kennedy Range National Park

Just over an hour’s drive east of Carnarvon is Kennedy Range National Park, a highlight for those seeking a unique outdoor experience. The park is accessible by four-wheel drive and a range of tour operators offer camping beneath the stars, exploring the stark sandstone cliffs of the range or checking out the Honeycomb Gorge – named for the unique rock formations carved from the wind and spray of the waterfall above (exploreparks.dbca.wa.gov.au/park/kennedyrange-national-park).

AT A GLANCE

Kalgoorlie-Boulder

Audio

Kennedy Range National Park exploreparks.dbca. wa.gov.au/park/kennedyrange-national-park

Experience the best of the west

On AAT Kings’ 5-day Monkey Mia Dolphins and West Coast tour departing Perth, your Club can take in the West Coast’s many natural attractions including the limestone pillars of the Pinnacles, the Pink Lakes, UNESCO World Heritage site Shark Bay, the wild dolphins of Monkey Mia and the ancient gorges of Kalbarri National Park (aatkings.com).

THE KIMBERLEY & PILBARA

Combining small country towns with UNESCO World Heritage sites, the Kimberley and Pilbara regions present a truly unforgettable remote wilderness experience.

Embark on a journey to El Questro

A wilderness park on a cattle station? Welcome to El Questro, 700,000 acres of ancient landscapes in the heart of the Kimberley that truly showcase the natural wonders of this region. With its ancient gorges and waterfalls, rivers and creeks, this is a breathtaking destination. Take a guided hike, helicopter ride or scenic flight. Soak in the thermal pools at Zebedee Springs, cruise through Chamberlain Gorge and watch the sunset from Saddleback Ridge (elquestro.com.au)

Discover diverse Karratha

Make your way to Karratha, the powerhouse of the Pilbara. A walk along the Yaburara Heritage Trail gives members an introduction to the ancient Jaburara people and their legacy – the largest collection of Aboriginal rock engravings on Earth (karratha.wa.gov.au/yaburara-heritage-trail ). Then, a short boat trip brings you to Western Australia’s marine diversity hot spot, the 42 islands comprising the Dampier Archipelago. If your visit happens to coincide with a full moon between the months of April and October, watch the moon rise over exposed mudflats at Hearson Cove, creating the rare natural phenomenon known as the ‘Staircase to the Moon’.

1. The Kimberley Coast is blessed with natural wonders – including these, the spectacular King George Falls 2. Enjoy unmatched serenity on a visit to unforgettable El Questro 3. Feed bottlenose dolphins at the coastal resort of Monkey Mia

Travel the Kimberley Coast and surrounds

Defined by huge tracts of wilderness, dramatic gorges and waterfalls, and semi-arid savannah, the Kimberley Coast and surrounds is a destination like no other. Traverse the red-dirt tracks or cruise the waterways. Learn about Indigenous culture and witness the vast beauty from above on a scenic flight. The town of Broome is the gateway to the region and home to the magnificent South Sea Pearl. Visit Willie Creek Pearl Farm to learn about the history of Broome and the art of culturing pearls from shell to showroom (williecreekpearls.com.au). ■

Departure Location: Barrack St, Perth.

Departure Time: 9:45am.

Enjoy a night out with stunning river scenery and relaxing atmosphere on the Swan River. Upon departure, yourhot buffet awaits with complimentary wines, beer and soft drinks to match.

Departure Location: Barrack St, Perth. Departure Time: 7:30pm.

Enjoy daily departures to Rottnest Island from Barrack Street Jetty. SeaLink Rottnest Island is the number one choice to Rottnest, with modern, comfortable vessels and excellent customer service the entire way.

Departure Locations: Barrack St, Perth. Departure Time: 08:30am.

For over 30 years Captain Cook Cruises has established itself as Perth’s premier cruise company, providing picturesque tours of the city along the majestic Swan River. Conveniently located just a short stroll from Perth’s CBD in the magnificent Elizabeth Quay precinct, they provide an unrivalled experience with a range of options for exploring Perth and surrounds. With daily passenger cruises to Fremantle, scenic full day wine cruises to the Swan Valley, lunch, dinner and twilight cruises to choose from there truly is a cruise for everyone.

dinner

Blackout dates apply 23/12/22 - 05/01/23 & 26/12/23. Valid for bookings until 30/04/23. Valid for travel until 30/08/2023.

Swan Valley Gourmet Wine Cruise Perth Swan River Dinner Cruise Travel Perth to Rottnest Island

Lake MacDonnell, Eyre Peninsula

South Australia

Welcome to serene and surprising South Australia, where world-class food, wine and hospitality combine with spectacular coastlines, prehistoric geological attractions and an endless array of cultural experiences for every traveller.

Start your journey in amazing Adelaide and the beautiful Barossa Valley, before exploring the highlights of Mount Gambier, the Ikara-Flinders Ranges, Kangaroo Island and so much more in between.

ADELAIDE, BAROSSA & CLARE

VALLEY

A trip to South Australia is never complete without staying in the capital, Adelaide, where charming streets, impressive churches and cathedrals, and gourmet cuisine await. This welcoming city is also your gateway to the Barossa and Clare Valley, two of Australia’s premier winemaking regions.

Enjoy the Adelaide Central Market

For a quintessential Adelaide experience, take your Club to the thriving gastronomic and cultural hub that is the Adelaide Central Market. Here you’ll find authentic eateries inspired by the flavours of Asia, plus loads of fine produce from across South Australia including fruit, vegetables, cheese, chocolates, small goods and more. After breakfast, a guided tour can take you through the market’s rich history and favourite characters (adelaidecentralmarket.com.au).

Spend a day at the Adelaide Botanic Garden

The sprawling Adelaide Botanic Garden is a true oasis in the heart of the city. Spend a day wandering the delightful gardens, which feature superb architecture, majestic avenues and impressive flora including the celebrated wisteria arbour. Members can dine on produce from the surrounding gardens while relaxing under a heritage rotunda overlooking pleasant ponds (botanicgardens.sa.gov.au/ visit/adelaide-botanic-garden). The National Wine Centre of Australia and Adelaide Zoo are both within walking distance as well.

1. Watch the wonderful wisteria arbour put on a purple show at Adelaide Botanic Garden

2. The always-buzzing Adelaide Central Market is one of the largest undercover fresh produce markets in the Southern Hemisphere

Become a winemaker for a day

Reckon you can create the perfect drop? At Knappstein Wines in the Clare Valley your group can take part in a wine blending session, a hands-on experience where knowledgeable winemakers teach you their craft before letting you have a go at making your own signature red wine blend. Held in the Enterprise Brewery building, which dates back to 1878, the ‘Let’s Get Blended’ class is just 45 minutes long and is complemented by a full tasting of the winery’s own offerings – so you can see how yours compares! (knappstein.com.au/events/lets-get-blended ).

THE FLEURIEU PENINSULA & KANGAROO ISLAND

South of Adelaide you’ll discover the stunning coastline and wetlands of the Fleurieu Peninsula, home to a number of conservation parks that offer a glimpse into the region’s diverse flora and fauna. From Cape Jervis you’ll want to take the ferry to must-see Kangaroo Island, where the outdoor adventure goes to another level.

Follow the Fleurieu Art Trails

Rugged, windswept Fleurieu Peninsula has provided artistic inspiration for centuries, and today the region remains a haven for art and culture. By following the distinctive purple flags along the six Fleurieu Art Trails ( fleurieupeninsula.com.au/artheritage-culture), your group can find the region’s best studios, galleries and exhibition spaces. Each circuit can be navigated as a day trip. The self-guided tours cover creative works across diverse destinations including McLaren Vale, Willunga, the Gulf beaches, the south-western tip, the south coast, and upstream from the Murray Mouth towards Adelaide.

Get a taste of Kangaroo Island

Take the short ferry ride from Cape Jervis to Kangaroo Island, South Australia’s premier nature-based destination, to spend a few days immersed in the beauty of the island’s beaches, bushland and wildlife. On a guided beach walk with a Park Ranger see Australian sea lions at Seal Bay Conservation Park ( parks.sa.gov.au/experiences/seal-bay). Get up close to kangaroos and koalas at Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park (kangarooislandwildlifepark.com). Witness Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch at Flinders Chase National Park. Or simply indulge in the island’s gourmet delights on a tour to a cellar door, gin distillery, oyster farm or honey farm. Explore Kangaroo Island on one of SeaLink’s multi-day tours to experience incredible native wildlife, local produce and spectacular coastal scenery (sealink.com.au/kangarooisland/experiences/multi-day-tours).

AT A GLANCE

Adelaide Central Market

08 8203 7494

adelaidecentralmarket. com.au

Adelaide Botanic Garden 08 8222 9311

botanicgardens.sa.gov.au/ visit/adelaide-botanicgarden

Knappstein Wines

08 8841 2100 knappstein.com.au

Fleurieu Art Trails fleurieupeninsula.com.au/ art-heritage-culture

Seal Bay Conservation Park parks.sa.gov.au/ experiences/seal-bay

3. Seal Bay is home to about 800 Australian sea lions, an endangered species that occupy the south and west coasts of Australia

4. See the Remarkable Rocks, a stunning geological feature popular with visitors to Kangaroo Island

5. The d’Arenberg Cube is perhaps the most well-known artwork in McLaren Vale, but follow the Fleurieu Art Trails to discover hundreds more

Kangaroo Island

Wildlife Park 08 8559 6050 kangarooisland wildlifepark.com

Sealink Kangaroo Island Tours 13 13 01 sealink.com.au/kangarooisland/experiences/ multi-day-tours

LIMESTONE COAST, RIVERLAND & MURRAYLANDS

Across the far east and south-east of the state, members will marvel at the beaches, rivers and lakes that define the Limestone Coast, Riverland and Murraylands Regions. You’ll no doubt discover the prehistoric caves and volcanoes, but there are also charming towns and contemporary attractions to explore in this underrated part of South Australia.

1. The iconic Robe Obelisk was constructed at Cape Dombey in 1855 by local builder George Shivas

2. Berri’s 15-metre high, 12-metre wide Big Orange claims the title of the biggest of the “big fruit” in Australia

Relish your time at Robe

Boasting gorgeous beaches as well as high-quality boutiques, restaurants and accommodation options, Robe is a destination bound to be appreciated by members looking to unwind. Get your toes in the sand at Long Beach or stroll along the lovely Obelisk Coastal Trail, starting with views of the Robe Obelisk itself, passing the historic ruins of the Old Gaol (robe.sa.gov.au/explore/history/oldgaol ), on to the jetty and marina, and finally to the family-run Robe Town Brewery for a hand-crafted specialty beverage (robetownbrewery.com.au).

Visit Riverland towns

2

A Riverland adventure will take your Club through picturesque countryside as you traverse Australia’s longest river, the Murray River. Pop into quaint towns like Berri, Loxton, Renmark, Waikerie and Barmera – the jewel of the region, where the sparkling fresh water of Lake Bonney invites visitors to enjoy a spot of fishing or canoeing. For members who are interested in regional Australia’s ‘Big Things’, a stop to see the Big Orange, located near Berri, should definitely be on the itinerary. Standing 15 metres tall and 12 metres wide, it’s the biggest of the ‘Big Fruit’ found anywhere in the country.

AT A GLANCE

The Old Gaol, Robe 08 8768 2003 robe.sa.gov.au/explore/ history/oldgaol

Robe Town Brewery robetownbrewery.com.au

Day Tours from Adelaide

Adelaide City

Hahndorf

Kangaroo Island

McLaren Vale

Victor Harbor

YORKE & EYRE PENINSULAS

Say yes to a tour of the Yorke and Eyre Peninsulas, where coastal drives don’t come much more rewarding. When you’re not admiring the lakes and landscapes on one side or the ocean on the other from one of the countless lookouts, enjoy the first-class ecotourism on offer or dine out on some of the freshest seafood in the country.

Drive to Kimba

Your Eyre Peninsula escape will take you to the tiny town of Port Augusta, where a broad harbour stretches out to the Spencer Gulf. Next you’ll make your way to Kimba, another town with a small population yet enormous appeal. Admire the eight-metre-tall ‘Big Galah’ guarding over the region, before discovering Kimba’s other larger-than-life drawcard – its silos, which have been decorated as magnificent murals by creative artists as part of the Silo Art Trail (australiansiloarttrail.com). While travelling the colourful countryside, make time for the pink ripples of Pildappa Rock – the highest and longest wave formation on the Eyre Peninsula. Formed 1.5 billion years ago, this immense granite outcrop rivals Western Australia’s famous Wave Rock.

Travel the Salt Lake Trail

Yorketown is surrounded by around 200 salt lakes, and the crystal formations offer avid photographers an opportunity to take some eye-catching pictures. Depending on the salt

1. Marvel at the mesmerising wave formations of Pildappa Rock

2. Pink lakes just like this can be found all over the Yorke and Eyre Peninsulas

content, season and even the time of day, the lakes on the Yorke Peninsula Salt Lake Trail can span the colour spectrum from vibrant pinks and oranges to shades of silver and white. You can explore the circuit via four selected routes, taking in some truly superb vantage points. Along the way, interpretative signage highlights the history of salt production in the area at stops like Lake Fowler, Dhalliwanggu-Lake Sunday and Pink Lake.

AT A GLANCE

Yorke Peninsula Salt Lake Trail

yorkepeninsula.com.au/yorkepeninsula-salt-lake-trail

Silo Art Trail australiansiloarttrail.com

Discover the magic, live the adventure

Visit South Australia’s Flinders Ranges for a first-hand, personal experience of this ancient landscape, delivered through the perspective of the region’s Traditional Owners, the Adnyamathanha people.

wilpenapound.com.au

FAR NORTH

In the state’s largest region, the vast Far North, your Club will be enthralled by the Ikara-Flinders Ranges – an absolute must for nature lovers – but your outback journey can stretch far beyond the most popular landmarks alone.

Discover the magic of Wilpena Pound

Located in the heart of the wildlife-rich Ikara-Flinders Ranges National Park, Wilpena Pound – known as Ikara (meaning ‘the meeting place’) to the region’s Traditional Owners, the Adnyamathanha people – is a natural amphitheatre of mountains set in a region renowned for its geological history, ancient fossils and Aboriginal rock art. This is where the famous South Australian landscape artist, Hans Heysen, found the inspiration for his most famous gum tree paintings. Wilpena Pound Resort offers an ideal base to explore this vast, ancient outback landscape on a guided Aboriginal cultural walk, 4WD tour or spectacular scenic flight (wilpenapound.com.au).

Stargaze at Arkaroola

Find out why most remaining yellow-footed rock wallabies call the South Australian outback home when your group arrives at Arkaroola, where ancient granite mountains meet hillsides covered in golden spinifex. You can meet these shy, endangered marsupials in their natural habitat within the award-winning Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary, which is

1. Wilpena Pound is known as Ikara in the language of the Adnyamathanha people, meaning ‘meeting place’

2. Arkaroola is a 610 square kilometre wildlife sanctuary located in the northern Flinders Ranges

home to a huge variety of birds, reptiles and mammals. Your group will also have the chance to gaze over Lake Frome to the desert beyond, but the ultimate ‘star’ attraction is the dazzling night sky above that members can experience on an astronomy tour including the Dodwell Observatory, Sir Mark Oliphant Observatory and Ningana Imaging Observatory (arkaroola.com.au). ■

AT A GLANCE

Wilpena Pound Resort 1800 805 802 wilpenapound.com.au

Arkaroola 08 8648 4848 arkaroola.com.au

Cape Tourville, Freycinet Peninsula

Tasmania

Located 240km south of the Australian mainland across Bass Strait, the island state of Tasmania is like the best of Australia all rolled up into one tidy package. Tassie is renowned for its World Heritage Listed wilderness, awe-inspiring coastlines and historic convict sites – not to mention mouth-watering local produce. But dig a little deeper and you might also discover some of the country’s best-kept secrets.

HOBART

& THE SOUTH

Hobart may be small compared with the mainland state capitals, but it’s growing steadily due to the wonderful lifestyle on offer – not to mention its proximity to so many incredible natural wonders, storied heritage sites and worldleading produce. You can use it as a base to explore the dramatic Tasman Peninsula, picturesque Huon Valley and wild Southwest National Park, to name just a few.

Sample the Taste of Summer in Hobart

Summer in Hobart is a special time – the weather is ideal for enjoying the warmth and sunshine without the searing temperatures you may get up on the mainland. That’s why the annual Taste of Summer festival, held on Hobart’s waterfront right beside the lively Salamanca district, is bound to be such a popular hit over the Christmas and New Year break. Kicking off on 27 December 2022 to 2 January 2023, Taste of Summer replaces the long-running Taste of Tasmania Festival, but the vibe is much the same: think delicious local food and drink from Tasmania’s incredible producers, live music and art performances, and smiling festival-goers mingling in a buzzing waterside atmosphere (tasteofsummer.com.au).

Discover some of Tassie’s lesser-known towns

There’s so much to see and do in Tassie that visitors often bypass the characterful towns right on Hobart’s doorstep. Become acquainted with a few on Coal River Coaches’ Back Roads tour, passing through gems like Brighton, Ouse, Hamilton, Ellendale, Bushy Park and Magra. Highlights include morning tea and a tour at convict-build sandstone homestead Rathmore House and platypus-spotting at impressive Meadowbank Dam (lovetasmaniatours.com.au).

1. A trekking couple explores the breathtaking Three Capes Track on the stunning Tasman Peninsula

2. Hobart comes to life during the annual Taste of Summer Festival (formerly known as the Taste of Tasmania)

3. The rolling green landscape of the Huon Valley is home to many well-known cider houses

Follow the Huon Valley Cider Trail

They call Tassie the Apple Isle, and picturesque Huon Valley is the heart of Tasmanian apple country with orchards spread across the rolling green paddocks that define the landscape. Start at Willie Smith’s Apple Shed, less than 30 minutes from Hobart and home of Willie Smith’s Cider. Here you can try local salmon, cheese and a particularly popular apple pie, take a 20-minute self-guided tour of the Apple Museum, and of course, taste the cider for which the Shed is famous (williesmiths.com.au). Next, head to Frank’s Ciderhouse & Cafe ( frankscider.com.au), located in the town of Franklin, and then Pagan Cider Cellar Door in Cygnet for free cider tastings in its intimate tasting room ( pagancider.com.au).

AT A GLANCE

THE WEST

The diverse and relatively untouched West Coast of Tasmania awaits intrepid explorers. Think ‘Western Wilds’ towns like Queenstown and Strahan; pristine Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park; and the north-west’s magical Tarkine, the world’s second-largest expanse of cool temperate rainforest.

Crack the case at Tarraleah

A popular stop on the journey from Hobart to the west coast or Cradle Mountain, Tarraleah is a beautiful and historic estate located in Tasmania’s Central Highlands. Art Deco-style Tarraleah Lodge, perched atop a gorge, hosts fun murdermystery weekends where your group can take on the role of investigators. Attendees are encouraged to glam up in their finest flapper or gangster costumes as they attempt to solve the case at the privately hosted event. The Murder Mystery Package also includes accommodation, three-course dinner, pre-dinner sparkling and brekky (tarraleahlodge.com.au).

Zip over to Zeehan

Known as the ‘Silver City’ due to the discovery of silver deposits in the late 1800s, Zeehan was once the third-largest settlement in Tasmania at the state’s mining peak. These days it has a more modest population of around 700, but the remnants of the town’s mining past remain in the form of several grand historic buildings dotted along Main Street, making it a great destination for a Club visit. Your starting point is the West Coast Heritage Centre, which includes access to the Zeehan School of Mines and Metallurgy, the Zeehan Post Office, the Police Station-Court House and the majestic Gaiety Theatre, once considered among the grandest theatres in Australia with a seating capacity of 1,000 people (wchczeehan.com.au). While you’re in town, don’t forget to check out the Spray Tunnel, a 100-metrelong abandoned railway tunnel leading to what used to be the site of the Spray Silver Mine.

1. The rare Cape Barren goose has a thriving population on Maria Island off Tasmania’s East Coast

2. Wander the seemingly endless rows of lavender on a visit to Bridestowe Lavender Estate

3. The orange lichen-covered granite boulders for which the Bay of Fires is famous are even more awe-inspiring up close

LAUNCESTON

& THE NORTH

Venture into the north of Tassie with its stunning rolling landscapes, cool-climate vineyards and coastal towns, not to mention the rich heritage and natural wonders just waiting to be discovered on Bass Strait islands like Flinders, King and Cape Barren.

Meet the Fairy Penguins of Bass Strait

Fairy penguins are known for three things: they’re the smallest of their species, they’re the loudest of their species, and they have blue-and-white feathers instead of the blackand-white feathers found on their cousins. There are a few great places to see Fairy Penguins on Tasmania’s north coast, including Stanley, Burnie, Devonport, Low Head; there’s even a town called ‘Penguin’ about halfway between Burnie and Devonport, with a Big Penguin by the beach that’s great for photos. Coach Tours Tasmania runs a great one-hour, fully guided tour where you can see the Fairy Penguins at Low Head Coastal Reserve (coachtourstasmania.com.au).

Hit a purple patch at Bridestowe

The Bridestowe Lavender Estate is the world’s largest privately own lavender farm spread over 260 acres just 45 minutes from Launceston. Breathe in the fresh Tasmanian air as you lose yourself in the rows of purple flowers before heading to the farm’s cafe, where you can try lavenderinspired menu items like lavender lattes and alwayspopular lavender ice cream. There’s also a gift shop with soaps, oils, lip balms, teas, and of course the farm’s famous Bobbie the Bear heat packs (bridestowelavender.com.au).

Coach Tours Tasmania runs shuttles to Bridestowe Lavender Farm from Launceston four times a week (Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday) with up to three departures per day, depending on demand (coachtourstasmania.com.au).

THE EAST COAST

Beautiful bays, beaches and islands are ready to be explored on Tasmania’s popular East Coast. You can pack most of its highlights into less than a week with Coal River Coaches’ 6-day, 5-night East Coast tour, including stops in Launceston, Bicheno, Freycinet, Port Arthur and Hobart (lovetasmaniatours.com.au).

Encounter rare wildlife on Maria Island

A native wildlife sanctuary boasting quiet bays, rugged cliffs and white-sand beaches, many travellers bypass Maria Island on their journey from Hobart to popular Freycinet and Wineglass Bay, but those who opt to take the 30-minute ferry ride from Triabunna are always glad they did – especially if they’re interested in native fauna. Maria is home to the critically endangered swift parrot and the rare Cape Barren goose, plus an abundance of wombats and kangaroos, and even a thriving population of Tasmanian devils.

Stop at the Bay of Fires

The Bay of Fires is famous for the orange lichen-covered granite boulders that line its coastline. For day-trippers ‘The Gardens’, 20 minutes from St Helens, is the perfect place to get a taste; or for those wanting to stay longer and truly immerse themselves in the landscape, the four-day Bay of Fires Lodge Walk is bound to delight. ■

AT A GLANCE

Have you been dreaming of Tasmania? Do you need help with the planning?

Groups Tasmania / Coach Tours Tasmania have been organising group tours for more than 20 years. Our itinerary planning is extensive and our experience covers all aspects of Tasmania

Travel as a group in your privately chartered coach with experienced coach captain, taking in the sights and experiences your Island State has to offer.

All size groups are catered for, from mini-buses for small close knit friends, right up to 57-seat touring coaches for large clubs. So why not take advantage of the service we have to offer, and allow us to make all your arrangements for you.

Get together with some friends, make a plan to book a visit to Tassie, and share an amazing experience.

Email: probian@coachtourstasmania.com.au

Phone David: 0409 857892 www.groupstasmania.com.au www.coachtourstasmania.com.au

Balloons soar over Lake Burley Griffin

Australian

Capital Territory

The Australian Capital Territory is thriving as a travel destination. Whether you’re looking to unlock the stories of Australian history at its many museums, soak up art and culture at its galleries, or get in touch with the outdoors in any of its dozens of nature reserves and gardens – or of course, its centrepiece, Lake Burley Griffin –you’re bound to find something here you’ll love. Prepare yourself to have a capital time.

Attend a Last Post Ceremony

Honour fallen members of the Australian Defence Force with this touching ceremony at the Australian War Memorial. Held daily at 4:45pm in the Commemorative Area, each ceremony shares the individual story behind one of the over 103,000 names on the Roll of Honour. The ceremony begins with the Australian national anthem followed by the Piper’s Lament. Visitors are invited to lay wreaths and floral tributes beside the Pool of Reflection. Then, an individual’s story is told, and the Ode is recited by Australian Defence Force personnel. The ceremony ends with the sounding of the Last Post.

Note all visitors (including children) require a free timed ticket to enter the Australian War Memorial or attend the Last Post Ceremony (you can book online at awm.gov.au/visit). While attendance is free, capacity is limited, and early arrival is recommended for larger groups as the Memorial is unable to reserve spaces at the Last Post Ceremony.

The Memorial also has a new temporary entrance in place, located opposite Poppy’s Café. While the Memorial is in the process of being transformed, please expect some disruption to your visit including construction noise, changed parking conditions, and reduced access to some galleries and exhibitions.

1. Last Post Ceremonies are held daily in the Commemorative Area of the Australian War Memorial

2. Poppies line the panels of the Australian War Memorial’s Roll of Honour

3. Visitors arrive at the NFSA ready to unlock tales of Australian cinema

4. A gardener trims a bonsai tree in Canberra’s National Arboretum

AT A GLANCE

Australian War Memorial 02 6243 4211 awm.gov.au/visit

National Film and Sound Archive 02 6248 2000 nfsa.gov.au

Australian National Botanic Gardens 02 6250 9588 parksaustralia.gov.au/ botanic-gardens

Get a taste of Hollywood at the NFSA

Discover unseen treasures from Australian cinema on a visit to the National Film and Sound Archive (NFSA) and learn how our homegrown talent has stepped up on the world stage. The NFSA’s popular Australians & Hollywood Exhibition continues this summer after rave reviews in 2021-22. The show features costumes and props from the genius of costume designer Catherine Martin and director Baz Luhrmann, the wife-and-husband duo who have worked together on such films as Romeo + Juliet (1996), Moulin Rouge! (2001), Australia (2008), The Great Gatsby (2013) and, most recently, Elvis (2022). Spend time up close with real artefacts from their films as well as others including Mad Max: Fury Road (George Miller 2015), The Sapphires (Wayne Blair, 2012) and Dune (Denis Villeneuve, 2021). Drop by ‘The Marvellous Corricks’, the free NFSA exhibition about the family of entertainers who delighted Australian audiences with music, comedy and film in the early 20th century. When you’re done, relax in the courtyard or grab a bite at the NFSA’s award-winning café, The Curators Café Bar (nfsa.gov.au).

Connect with nature in and around Canberra

According to the ACT Government, it’s estimated no Canberran lives more than 3.5km from a nature park or forest. With so much green right on the doorstep, then, any Club spending time in Canberra won’t be short of options for a day in the great outdoors. Breathe in the fresh air on

a Daily Guided Walk of the Australian National Botanic Gardens, nestled at the foothill of Black Mountain. Knowledgeable guides share stories about the huge selection of Australian plants on display and help you truly appreciate the beauty of our local flora ( parksaustralia.gov.au/botanicgardens). Visit the National Arboretum Canberra, a mosaic of living forests and gardens with outstanding views and 44,000 rare and endangered trees. The Arboretum offers daily walks, guided bus tours and cultural workshops that take in various elements of the 250-hectare site (nationalarboretum.act.gov.au). Fancy a walk without having to book at all? Canberra is made up of 39 nature reserves scattered throughout and around the city, including Mount Ainslie, Mount Majura, Black Mountain, Mulligans Flat and so many more.

Try some ‘light’ craft in Braddon

Love the idea of bonding with Club members over an interesting craft? Here’s a bright idea – Art Masterclass holds fantastic 2.5-hour Mosaic Lamp Making Workshops in Braddon, Canberra, where you can make your very own Turkish lamp using mosaic tiles (tesserae) and a beautiful geometric template of your choice. The experience comes complete with fresh and seasonal grazing boxes, Turkish coffee and tea, and homemade Turkish shortbread cookies –and, of course, you get to take home your creative masterpiece (artmasterclass.com.au/products/mosaic-classes-canberra).

Take the Aussie Peace Walk

Walking is one of life’s most simple pleasures, and in Canberra they have a festival dedicated to doing just that. In 2021, the 30th Canberra Two-Day Walk – sometimes called the “Canberra Walking Festival” – re-branded as the Rotary Aussie Peace Walk, and in 2023 it marches on, continuing its wonderful legacy on the weekend of 25-26 March. The festival-like event enables people of all ages to get together for a weekend of fun while participating in any of seven walking courses, including an easy 7km walk starting at Nara Park and around parts of Lake Burley Griffin, passing by Commonwealth Park, the National Art Gallery and historic Albert Hall along the way. Participants are encouraged to chat with fellow walkers, and there’s only one key rule: no running! (aussiepeacewalk.com.au). ■

1. ‘Wide Brown Land’ is a 35-metre-wide sculpture that can be found in Canberra’s National Arboretum

2. Learn to make mosaic lamps at an Art Masterclass in Braddon

3. Lake Burley Griffin is the centrepiece of Canberra and a key part of the Rotary Aussie Peace Walk

BEFORE YOU VISIT BOOK YOUR FREE TICKET

We continue to welcome visitors while we work to expand our galleries. Plan your visit and book free tickets online.

Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge

Northern Territory

Whether you’re soaking up the energy in vibrant Darwin, connecting with the land in Kakadu or escaping from it all in the Red Centre, the Northern Territory is quintessential Australia. Vast landscapes, fascinating native wildlife and deep Indigenous roots are all part of the story here – and that’s only scratching the surface. Are you ready to answer the call of the NT?

THE TOP END

You’ll be in endless wonder when you visit the Top End, a general name for the region incorporating Darwin, East Arnhem and Katherine. Here you’ll find some of Australia’s most famous national parks as well as wildlife, war history and Indigenous cultural connections.

Take a city tour of Darwin

A multicultural coastal hub known for its laid-back tropical lifestyle, for many Darwin is the gateway for exploration of the Northern Territory – but it has so much to offer in its own right. And the compact town centre means much of it can be seen on a relaxed morning tour. AAT Kings offers a great half-day Darwin City Sights Tour at 8:30am each day (aatkings.com.au/tours). Here you can learn about local aviation history, see a B-52 Bomber on permanent loan from the United States Air Force and view rare amateur footage of the 1942 World War II air raid of Darwin at the Darwin Aviation Museum (darwinaviationmuseum.com.au). You’ll also visit the Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory (magnt.net.au), view the largest permanent display of Aboriginal art in Australia, and drop into the splendid Darwin Botanic Gardens.

Discover the wonders of Kakadu National Park

No trip to the Top End would feel complete without a visit to Kakadu, a biodiverse nature reserve and cultural site of tremendous significance to the Traditional Owners, the Bininj/Mungguy people. Depending on the season you visit, many of Kakadu’s best sights may or may not be accessible by road; in the case of the latter, much of it can still be enjoyed from the air on a scenic flight. And, indeed, the highlights are plentiful. See Nourlangie Rock and Ubirr, known for rock art documenting life in the region from 20,000 years ago to the first contact with European explorers – not to mention spectacular nearby lookouts. On a Yellow Water Cruise, journey into the heart of Kakadu and see the rich wildlife of the national park, with over 60 species of birds and crocodiles in every direction. Or travel even deeper into the park to see highlights like Jim Jim Falls, Gunlom Falls and Maguk. Bear in mind certain parts of Kakadu may be closed at any time, be it due to weather or request of the Traditional Owners ( parksaustralia.gov.au/kakadu).

1. Nourlangie Rock as seen from nearby Nawurlandja lookout in Kakadu National Park

Connect with the art of the Tiwi Islands

They’re known as the ‘Islands of Smiles’, and you’re bound to find out why on a day trip to the Tiwi Islands, the combined name for geographically and culturally linked Bathurst Island and Melville Island some 80km north of the Northern Territory coastline. A 2.5-hour ferry ride from Darwin, here you’ll discover a thriving Indigenous culture renowned for its wonderful art. Visit Jilamara Arts on Melville, whose artists are known for their use of natural ochres in paintings and carvings, as well as on tutini poles and tungas (ceremonial bark bags) ( jilamara.com). Munupi Arts & Crafts, also on Melville (munupiart.com), and Tiwi Design (tiwidesigns.com) are brilliant too; or take a Tiwi by Design tour to really immerse yourself in the art and culture of the islands (sealinknt.com.au/tiwi-islands/tiwi-by-design).

3

2. Bird watchers love Kakadu’s Yellow Water Cruise, where you might see over 60 species of birds including the comb-crested jacana

3. View 19 examples of civil and military aircraft at the Darwin Aviation Museum

KATHERINE & BARKLY TABLELANDS

Always delightful and captivating, Katherine is an oftenunderrated part of the Northern Territory famous for Nitmiluk National Park and Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge. Meanwhile, the Barkly Tablelands – one of not just Australia’s, but also the world’s most sparsely populated regions – features highlights like Tennant Creek, Mataranka and the Devil’s Marbles (Karlu Karlu).

Visit Nitmiluk

Just 30km north-east of Katherine, Nitmiluk National Park and the marvellous Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge is a destination everyone deserves to see in their lifetime. Paddle a canoe along the hauntingly beautiful gorge as you witness waterfalls, ancient Indigenous rock art and abundant wildlife. Float by on a sunrise or sunset river cruise and enjoy the spectacular colours and hues on display. You can also choose from a selection of scenic helicopter flights to witness the magnificent landscape from up high. For a day visit that’s accessible by road, Leliyn (Edith Falls) is a 60km drive north of Katherine along the Stuart Highway. Here, you can swim in the natural pool at the base of the falls, and there’s even a kiosk if you fancy a quick lunch or refreshment.

Relax in the Mataranka hot springs

Immortalised by Jeannie Gunn in the autobiographical novel We of the Never Never, the small town of Mataranka south of Katherine is further renowned for its palm-fringed, sandybottomed thermal pools. The short walk down the stairs to the pool is beautiful in its own right, but once you arrive you’ll feel positively gob-smacked at the crystal-clear 30°C-plus water and peaceful surroundings. You may also be lucky enough to spot turtles, wallabies and little red flying foxes, the latter of which form a well-known colony in the area.

5. Canoers make their way through Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge at a leisurely pace

6. The thermal pools of Mataranka remain at over 30 degrees Celsius throughout the year

7. Leliyn (Edith Falls) is a 45-minute drive from Katherine and is perfect for a half-day trip

AAT Kings Darwin City Sights Tour

1300 300 911 aatkings.com.au/tours

Darwin Aviation Museum 08 8947 2145 darwinaviationmuseum. com.au

AT A GLANCE

Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory 08 8999 8264 magnt.net.au

Kakadu National Park 08 8938 1100 parksaustralia.gov.au/ kakadu

Jilamara Arts 08 8978 3901 jilamara.com

Munupi Arts & Crafts 08 8978 3975 munupiart.com

Tiwi Designs 08 8978 3982 tiwidesigns.com

Tiwi By Design Tours 1300 130 679 sealinknt.com.au/tiwiislands/tiwi-by-design

THE RED CENTRE

Journey deep into the dusty, arid desert landscape of Australia’s Red Centre. The town of Alice Springs is your gateway here, from which you can set off for icons like Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, the West MacDonnell Ranges and much more.

Admire Alice Springs from up high

If you subscribe to the theory that views are best had from as high up as possible, why not take to the skies in a hot-air balloon and watch the sun creep above the outback horizon? Outback Ballooning operates 30-minute and 60-minute flights high above the Northern Territory’s Red Centre, including return transfers from accommodation in Alice Springs (outbackballooning.com.au). Or, if up to 1,000 feet is a little too high for your liking, make your way to Anzac Hill lookout for panoramic views of the town with your shoes still firmly on the ground. The site also features a memorial dedicated to those who sacrificed their lives during World War I and beyond.

Soak in an outback sunset on camelback

Fancy a camel ride against the backdrop of a sunset over the stunning West MacDonnell Ranges? You can experience just that on a one-hour ride with Pyndan Camel Tracks, located 15 minutes from Alice Springs or Simpsons Gap. Absorb the outback desert landscape and catch glimpses of native wildlife as you ride atop gentle camels and learn more about these impressive creatures. Club members won’t soon forget the glowing outback sky as it shifts from red to blue, orange and pink (cameltracks.com). ■

1. Explore the West MacDonnell Ranges on camelback at sunset

2. Float high above the Red Centre on an awe-inspiring hot-air balloon tour

TASTE THE CALIFORNIA SUN

New Zealand & the rest of the World

Whether you’re a New Zealand Probus Club hunting for a travel experience at home or an Australian Probus Club ducking across the pond, NZ’s rich palette of possibilities makes it one of the most wondrous countries on earth. On the following pages, we’ve chosen just a small selection to get the juices flowing. Or, for Tour Officers from either country looking to plan for an international travel adventure, you’ll also find ideas for the Pacific Islands, Asia, Europe, the USA and Canada. Let the adventure begin...

A trip through Ireland

The city of Lisbon

Cruise the Adriatic Coast

Central Europe Christmas Markets

Travel around Switzerland

RHS Chelsea Flower Show, London

The city of Paris

Architectural wonders of Spain

The Romantic Road of Germany

Vinterjazz Festival, Denmark

Bora Bora, French Polynesia

New Zealand & The Pacific Islands

You’ll be in awe of the natural and cultural diversity that abounds on both the North Island and South Island of New Zealand, where incredible destinations seem to appear at every turn. And on the islands scattered throughout the Pacific Ocean and neighbouring seas, immerse yourself in a shared spirit of positivity and a laid-back approach to life like you’ve never experienced – all while surrounded by sparkling waters and palm tree-lined shores.

NEW ZEALAND

Admire the cherry blossoms

When you think of cherry blossoms you most likely think of Japan, but did you know these pretty pink flowers bring colour and enchantment to springtime in New Zealand as well? The cherry blossom season is relatively short and sweet, the petals falling to the ground in a pink and white blizzard following a few weeks of bloom around mid-September to early October each year.

One of the best ways to enjoy the cherry blossoms in all their glory is to attend the NZ Cherry Blossom Festival at

1. Take in Cape Reinga from up high on an epic scenic flight

2. The NZ Cherry Blossom Festival at English Cherry Tree Manor, Hamilton is the best place in New Zealand to view cherry blossoms

3. Premium wineries abound in Hawke’s Bay, but there’s so much more to discover in this lovely region

4. Learn of key events in the history of Aotearoa New Zealand at the Waitangi Treaty Grounds

English Cherry Tree Manor in Hamilton, North Island, where visitors can revel in the beautiful gardens featuring magnificent blooms, multicultural entertainment, high tea and gourmet food vendors (blossfest.com). In 2023 the festival will run over two consecutive weekends (23-25 September and 30 September – 2 October).

Elsewhere in New Zealand, don’t hesitate to visit a hidden gem – Aston Norwood Gardens in Upper Hutt, North Island, where you’ll discover a whopping 400 cherry blossom trees –or North Hagley Park in Christchurch, South Island, where the path along Harper Avenue transforms into a boulevarde of blossoms. You can also admire the cherry blossoms at various other locations around the country including the Victoria Esplanade in Palmerston North, Cornwall Park in Auckland, the Cherry Walk in the Dunedin Botanic Garden, and Miyazu Japanese Garden in Nelson.

Be seduced by the Bay of Islands

Few holiday destinations can rival the breathtaking Bay of Islands, an enclave encompassing more than 140 subtropical islands in the far north of New Zealand. Renowned for its pristine beaches and rich Māori heritage, this area is bound to enthral Club members seeking a combination of natural beauty and culture. The Bay of Islands is home to the 19thcentury whaling port of Russell, where the waterfront promenade is lined with remnants from its colonial history. Other highlights to put on your itinerary include a trip to Cape Reinga via Ninety Mile Beach, an amazing scenic flight

over the clear turquoise waters, a cruise to Cape Brett and the famous ‘Hole in the Rock’, or even a sailing adventure in a classic tall ship. Don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled for dolphins and other marine life!

And of course, no visit here is complete without visiting the ‘Birthplace of the Nation’, Waitangi Treaty Grounds. As the location of the signing of the treaty between the Mãori tribes and the British, this represents the most important historic site in Aotearoa New Zealand. While in the region, try to make time for a trip to Parry Kauri Park for a glimpse of a magnificent kauri tree.

Head to Hawke’s Bay

Your Club will not be disappointed with a journey to the wine-producing region of Hawke’s Bay on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island. Renowned for its beautiful beaches and of course its premium wineries, Hawke’s Bay is also home to impressive Art Deco landmarks including the Hawke’s Bay Opera House in Hastings. But the destination of desire is undoubtedly Napier – ‘the Art Deco Capital’. Rebuilt after a 1931 earthquake, Napier is a coastal city with the most comprehensive collection of Art Deco buildings in the world. Here you’ll find the popular Municipal Theatre and the zigzag-patterned Daily Telegraph Building. Another important site is the Statue of Pania, located on the tree-lined waterfront promenade of Marine Parade. Created in 1954, the statue honours the life of ‘Pania of the Reef’, a maiden figure of Māori mythology and the symbol of this wonderful city.

AT A GLANCE

While in Napier, you may also want to spend some time at the National Aquarium of New Zealand, which shelters endangered local species like kiwis and tuataras. The aquarium has an excellent viewing tunnel for marine life.

Grand Pacific Tours’ 9 Day Classic North Island tour takes your Club from Auckland to Wellington via Rotorua and features a city sights tour of Napier along with numerous other highlights, including Waitangi Treaty Grounds ( gptnz.com).

See the Southern Lights

From locations with low light pollution on New Zealand’s South Island, it’s sometimes possible to witness the extraordinary yet elusive aurora australis – more commonly known as the Southern Lights – an electrical wonder created by solar winds reacting with the gases in our atmosphere. This rare display of green and pink skies is a light show like no other.

Some of the best vantage points to see the Southern Lights include the country’s third and most southern populated island, Stewart Island; the Catlins, located at the very south of the island; and Lake Tekapo, which along with the surrounding Mackenzie region is an internationally recognised ‘Dark Sky Reserve’, making it one of the best places in the world to stargaze.

You might also be lucky enough to glimpse the aurora from various points around Dunedin, such as Sandfly Bay, Second

1. Queenstown is a stunning destination built on the shores of Lake Wakatipu

2. The 1932 Halsbury Chambers building is a prime example of why Napier is considered the Art Deco capital of NZ

3.Witness the astonishing spectacle of aurora australis, aka the Southern Lights, from multiple locations on New Zealand’s South Island

4. The TSS Earnslaw vintage steamship docks at Queenstown ready to take passengers to Walter Peak Station

Beach at St Clair, or Hoopers Inlet on the Otago Peninsula. Wherever you go, you’ll be hoping for clear weather conditions; the fewer clouds blocking your view the better, as aurora often appears only low on the horizon. To get the best Southern Lights viewing you should travel to New Zealand during the winter months (March to September), watch the forecast for a moderate to high aurora strength, and pick a night with clear skies. And here’s another tip – you could plan your Club’s trip for a ‘perfect solar cycle year’, which just happens to fall roughly in 2024 (and again in 2035).

4 Enjoy a trip to Queenstown

For many travellers, Queenstown might just be the ultimate holiday destination. Sitting on the shores of the South Island’s magical Lake Wakatipu and set against the snowcapped peaks of the dramatic Southern Alps, Queenstown offers an ideal base to explore the region’s historic mining towns, outstanding vineyards and more.

Adventure sports are popular here, but you don’t have to be a thrill seeker to take advantage of Queenstown’s geographical diversity. Braver members might enjoy a jet boat ride on the narrow, fast-flowing Shotover River, while others will prefer a more leisurely kayak on the Dart River to admire the panoramic scenery and rugged forest surroundings. For a change of pace, take a heritage tour of scenic Skippers Canyon, or board the TSS Earnslaw vintage steamship for a cruise across Lake Wakatipu to historic Walter Peak Station at the base of the mountain. Queenstown is also a great place to explore epic film locations, spoil yourselves with a trip to a spa and hot pools, or tantalise your tastebuds at fine-dining restaurants.

And don’t miss the chance to spend a half-day in Arrowtown, an old gold mining village where members can visit the innovative Lakes District Museum – which is also partly responsible for the protection of the town’s historic buildings.

On Grand Pacific Tours’ 10 Day Classic South Island tour, your Club can experience the highlights of New Zealand’s South Island including a few days in the fabulous city of Queenstown ( gptnz.com).

PACIFIC ISLANDS

Venture to Vanuatu

Comprising roughly 80 islands that span 1,300km, Vanuatu is home to sublime coral reefs, natural lagoons, underwater caverns and a famous shipwreck, the World War II-era troopship SS President Coolidge at Espiritu Santo – said to be the largest, most accessible wreck in the world. But don’t worry if you have no interest in diving – Vanuatu has plenty to offer both by the shore and on land, too. Some may choose to bathe in the Rarru Cascades, while the wildlife-viewing opportunities here are truly superb. You can even swim with turtles at Crystal Blue Lagoon.

On the island of Efate you can find the nation’s capital, harbourside Port Vila, a city well worth visiting for the Vanuatu National Museum exploring Melanesian culture. And about a 45-minute flight from Port Vila is the island of Tanna, where members will find the world’s most accessible active volcano, Mount Yasur, plus numerous other mountains, hot springs, rainforests and coffee plantations. Tanna’s main town, Lenakel, has a port, market and shops to visit. Other highlights of the island include the Tanna Coffee factory, Giant Banyan Tree, Yatana Surf Beach and Port Resolution, a lovely bay with magnificent cliffs.

Take a break on Bora Bora

Situated north-west of Tahiti, the island of Bora Bora in French Polynesia is one of the most admired in the South Pacific. Surrounded by sand-fringed islets and a turquoise lagoon protected by a coral reef, this is a paradise your Club won’t soon forget. Bora Bora appeals to anyone with an appreciation for the good life – sitting back and relaxing on a delightful beach, soaking up the friendly island spirit, sunset dining by the pure

waters, or simply enjoying the hospitality at one of many luxury resorts. For more active members, Bora Bora is also a great place to get involved in outdoor activities like a lagoon cruise over coral gardens or black-tip reef shark and stingray feeding. You can also circle the volcanic island on a 4WD tour by open-air safari truck, with photo opportunities aplenty from several lookouts along the way. At the island’s centre, Mount Otemanu – one of two peaks of a dormant volcano – rises a spectacular 727 metres and changes shape depending on your viewpoint.

AT A GLANCE

Come on tours of beauty and culture with events included in the

New Zealand is known as one of the most beautiful places on earth with an abundance of waterfalls, mountains, lakes, pure running streams, lush landscapes, rainbows and general ravishing scenery.

Many places have that, but more rare are thermal activity, glowworm caves, not to mention destinations like the Hobbiton filmset and Hot Water Beach

Unique to New Zealand is Māori culture. Experience a show and meal. What perhaps is also unique to our tours is the inclusion of events. The spring tours in late September / early October visit the NZ Cherry Blossom Festival. In addition to the most beautiful cherry blossoms and tens of thousands of other blooms, the festival has a wide variety of multicultural performances, street

itinerary

performers, high tea and much else, all in the most lovely garden setting.

Tours in early March include events such as Garden parties with music of classics, opera, jazz and folk; and dressup from former eras such as 1800s Jane Austen Britain and the roaring 1920s. Step back in time with so many wonderful photograph opportunities. Events are always exciting and attended en masse by the locals and not so many tourists. It’s a great opportunity to interact with jovial locals who are delighted to meet you.

The tours stay at the best of hotels and include food from top-rated establishments. Try fine NZ wine with luscious NZ green-lipped mussels and oysters. Optionally, indulge in spa pampering in a holiday of great variety

and pure delight. With the AU dollar currently high against the NZ dollar and tourism numbers not yet back up to capacity, now is a great time to travel.

The tours cover a small area of New Zealand and, so, there are no long bus rides. The coaches are the finest and most comfortable available. Apart from a few short walks, the tours accommodate those with limited mobility.

Explore enticing New Caledonia

The vast French overseas territory of New Caledonia, comprising dozens of picture-postcard islands, is a true gem of the South Pacific. The tourism and hospitality options available here cater to everyone, with a fantastic variety of landscapes, activities, attractions and cultures making New Caledonia a major drawcard for those seeking an idyllic getaway.

This unique archipelago is best known for its palm-lined beaches and the world’s largest coral reef lagoon – home to endangered dugongs and an important nesting site for the green sea turtle. The main island, Grand Terre, is surrounded by the massive barrier reef.

While in the capital Nouméa, don’t miss the Jean-Marie Tjibaou Cultural Centre, a culturally and architecturally significant site that was designed by Italian architect Renzo Piano and celebrates the culture of the Kanak, the archipelago’s indigenous Melanesian inhabitants. Elsewhere, members can explore the island’s sensational fauna and flora or visit the Musee De Bourail, a museum housed in an old stone building that displays objects relating to the presence of US and New Zealand troops during World War II, as well as a full guillotine brought over in 1867. Or take a boat to the crystalline waters of the Isle of Pines, the southernmost island of New Caledonia and one of the most spectacular locations in the Pacific.

Visit the Solomon Islands

If your Club fancies leaving the resorts behind, consider a trip to the lesser known yet absolutely gorgeous Solomon Islands – a volcano-studded archipelago defined by raw tropical beauty. When you’re not relaxing in a hammock at a traditional ‘leaf-house’ bungalow, head out to swim with dolphins, enjoy a gentle canoe ride down the river, or take pictures of the blooming orchids.

This nation of hundreds of islands bursts with ancient Melanesian culture. History buffs among the group will appreciate the region’s World War II-era sites. Visit the province of Guadalcanal, one of the archipelago’s largest islands, which honours fallen Allied soldiers at its US War Memorial. Guadalcanal is home to the nation’s capital, Honiara, where bustling Central Market showcases the fabulous produce and traditional handicrafts of these fascinating islands.

You’ll also have the chance to discover Skull Island – located in a serene lagoon teeming with colourful fish – the final resting place for the skulls of countless vanquished warriors. ■

AT A GLANCE

For much of the year, the first major country that sees the sun rise is New Zealand. Home to some of the world’s most diverse landscapes, marine reserves, island sanctuaries, historic sites, award winning produce and wines, as well as a distinctive Mãori culture; New Zealand has something for everyone.

Grand Pacific Tours (GPT), the New Zealand Coach Holiday Specialist in conjunction with Trade Travel, proud Partners of Probus are delighted to provide Probus Clubs with a comprehensive range of value for money holidays to New Zealand.

Relax in armchair comfort as you travel through each region, feeling secure in the hands of our Professional Crew whose reliable knowledge includes numerous facts and figures, stories, legends and many laughs along the way.

All tours include airfares and taxes, transfers in New Zealand, coach travel, hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing and attractions.

PROFESSIONAL COACH CAPTAIN

The Ultimate Coach Captains are the best in the business. They are carefully selected for their professionalism and attention to detail. They are there from start to finish and will attend to your needs and ensure a personal touring experience.

Enjoy their professional commentary including numerous facts and figures, myths, legends and laughs as you journey through New Zealand.

5 STAR TREATMENT VIP EXTRAS

4.5 STAR HOTEL ACCOMMODATION

You will stay at a selection of premium hotels in unique locations, or large hotels with a spirited ambience that suits the location. Enjoy a premium level of comfort, extensive guest facilities and thoughtful touches that create a long-lasting experience.

PROFESSIONAL COACH CAPTAIN

Handpicked for their expert knowledge and extensive driving experience the Coach Captain will be on hand to assist you with every aspect of the tour. Enjoy the professional commentary including numerous facts and figures, myths, legends and laughs.

FULLY ESCORTED TOURING

An experienced Grand Pacific Tour Leader will accompany you throughout the tour. Not only will they make you feel welcome and relaxed, will also ensure you enjoy a memorable Kiwi experience.

SIGNATURE BENEFITS

Experience the beauty of New Zealand in Premium Economy Comfort onboard the Signature coach. Beautifully crafted and designed for New Zealand touring with delivering excellence in mind. The configuration of the coach seating is two seats on the left side of the aisle and an individual seat on the right side, all with panoramic viewing.

4 STAR HOTEL ACCOMMODATION

The hotels used are stylish, centrally located and offer deluxe service. These hotels have a large range of facilities available and many offer swimming pools, gyms and a choice of dining options. All the service standards are aimed towards looking after your every need.

Cameron Highlands, Malaysia

Asia

While Asia is a relatively convenient holiday destination for Australians, a trip to our neighbouring continent can still feel like a journey to another world. From natural beauty, ancient landmarks and rich cultural diversity to the unique experiences of its bright and bustling modern cities, Asia has something to offer every travel group.

Visit bustling Beijing China’s vibrant capital, Beijing, serves up a smorgasbord of ancient wonders and contemporary highlights. No trip to Beijing is complete without a glimpse of the Great Wall of China, which extends for 573km through the region. Two of the most accessible, well-preserved sections of the Great Wall can be experienced at Badaling and Mutianyu, which provide a cable car or chairlift up to one of the watchtowers.

Your group will be keen to wander within the Forbidden City and discover the stories of 24 emperors who resided in the imperial palace complex of the Ming and Qing dynasties. For a leisurely yet richly rewarding experience, head to the vast Summer Palace. Here, members can look at splendid buildings on Longevity Hill while taking a boat ride on Kunming Lake, before watching a traditional Chinese performance in the restored grand theatre. Elsewhere in Beijing, take the chance to learn tai chi in the Temple of Heaven or practise Chinese calligraphy in narrow streets known as hutongs.

While visiting the world’s first dual Olympic city – Beijing hosted the 2022 Winter Olympic Games, having previously hosted the 2008 Summer Olympics – why not also check out

1. Beijing’s Forbidden City is a sprawling palace complex with over 700 years of history

2. Endless surprises await in Beijing’s narrow hutongs

3. Beijing National Stadium, aka the Bird’s Nest, played host to the 2008 Summer Olympics’ Opening Ceremony

Travel from Matsumoto to Takayama

The two-hour journey between Matsumoto and Takayama is steeped in history and tradition that will enchant Club members. Matsumoto, at the foot of the Alps, is home to the ‘Crow Castle’ – so called because of its dark allure – a designated national treasure of Japan. Visit the Ishii Miso factory in Matsumoto and see how this essential Japanese ingredient, made from soybeans, is produced by traditional fermentation in massive cedar barrels. Be sure to sample the staple, miso soup.

No visit to Japan is complete without a relaxing soak in an onsen, the traditional hot spring baths so loved in this part of the world. And there’s no better place to indulge than Hirayu Onsen, a picturesque mountain town east of Takayama. Your members will love Hida Folk Village, where each old farmhouse has a traditional thatched and shingle roof typical of the mountainous regions. Just 20 minutes from Takayama, this open-air museum is a fascinating destination.

some of the iconic venues used for winter sports including the ‘Bird’s Nest’, the ‘Ice Ribbon’ and the ‘Ice Cube’?

You’ve arrived in beautiful Takayama in Gifu Prefecture. Take a guided walk to see the narrow streets of Sanmachi Suji district, lined with wooden merchants’ houses dating to the Edo Period (1603-1867). The Takayama Jinya is an Edo Period provincial governor’s office and the only one in Japan where the original main building still stands. Visit the Miyagawa Morning Market on either bank of the Miya River to purchase local fruit and vegetables as well as traditional gifts.

Your Club can take in some of the wonderful sights of Takayama – along with a host of other brilliant Japan destinations – on many of the multi-day tours offered by Janesco Travel. Their fully escorted tour options range from 10 days to 22 days ( janescotravel.com/tours).

Discover Malaysia’s land of tea

A cool and welcome respite from the heat of bustling Kuala Lumpur, the Cameron Highlands has everything you could hope for in an idyllic mountain retreat: lush wilderness, forest trails and an abundance of exquisite, farm-fresh tea. Members will appreciate the beautiful rolling green slopes of Malaysia’s largest tea-producing region, situated in Pahang, which is located around 200km from the capital.

The 8,000-acre BOH Tea Plantation is one of the largest plantations in Southeast Asia and the home of BOH’s first tea factory. The historic Tudor-style colonial buildings, local flora and panoramic views over the garden make this a wonderful inclusion on any tour itinerary. Your Club members will no doubt savour the perfect cup of tea before browsing the lovely souvenirs available at the gallery and shop (bohtea.com/visit-our-tea-gardens).

However, world-class tea is far from the only pleasure to be found in the Cameron Highlands. Be sure to take a tour to the enchanting Mossy Forest, where a boardwalk guides you through a blanket of moss, ferns and orchids. The ‘cloud rainforest’ is shrouded in mist, giving it a unique and mysterious atmosphere. The region is also famous for its flora and fruit, particularly roses and strawberries. Members can choose to visit a bee farm or a butterfly garden to round out their stay.

1. Dongdaemun Design Plaza is a futuristic shopping mall located in South Korea’s capital

2. The “This One Earth” statue is a prounification sculpture at the entrance to Korea’s Third Infiltration Tunnel

3. Follow the boardwalk through the Cameron Highlands’ captivating Mossy Forest

4. Grab a keepsake at Insadong Antique Alley, Seoul

See the heart of Seoul

Old meets new in the heart of Seoul. South Korea’s fascinating capital offers an absorbing blend of Buddhist temples, palaces and street markets juxtaposed with high-tech subways and skyscrapers. Notable attractions and activities include the traditional village of Bukchon Hanok, the ancient locust and pine trees at Jogyesa Temple (where you might share tea with a monk), shopping for unusual amulets and other souvenirs at Insadong Antique Alley, and a tour of Gyeongbok Palace –built in 1392 and for five centuries the main royal palace of the Joseon dynasty – where members can witness the changing of the guard ceremony. For a taste of more contemporary architecture, check out futuristic Dongdaemun Design Plaza. When it comes to dining, prepare for some absolutely scrumptious ‘Seoul food’. Members can experience a traditional Korean-style BBQ house for smoky meats and sizzling savoury pancakes, or learn how to make South Korea’s favourite dish, bibimbap, at a cooking class and demonstration.

North of Seoul, gain a deeper knowledge of the relationship between North and South Korea by visiting the Demilitarised Zone (DMZ) in Paju for Imjingak Park, the Bridge of Freedom and the Third Infiltration Tunnel, where up to 30,000 soldiers can pass through within an hour. Back in the capital, the War Memorial Museum allows visitors to reflect further on the conflict between the bordering countries.

A taste of salt and pepper in Kampot

Kampot is the land of salt and pepper. Situated on the Preaek Tuek Chhu River in southern Cambodia, the provincial town is known for its magnificent salt fields and plantations producing some of the best black, red and white pepper anywhere in the world. Your Club will be able to see up close how both the mineral and flowering vine are expertly harvested before they become popular condiments.

Life moves slowly in Kampot, but that’s all part of the charm. Like the locals, you’ll be drawn to the river promenade at the foot of the Elephant Mountains, where a lovely sunset stroll or boat ride awaits. As the sun goes down, you’ll be rewarded with a unique glimpse of glowing fireflies lighting up the riverside trees.

You can also explore Kampot’s surrounding countryside on a bus tour or hire a tuk-tuk to see wooden huts, rice paddies, palm trees, water buffalo and zebu (humped white cattle), as well as children smiling and waving while field workers rake the salt and carry it away in baskets. To the west, visit Preah Monivong Bokor National Park, famous for Bokor Hill Station, an abandoned luxury resort and retreat built by French colonialists in the early 1920s. The national park is home to forests, waterfalls, and an array of wildlife including gibbons and big cats. You can also visit Wat Sampov Pram, aka the Temple of the Five Boats, a monastery that sits atop Bokor Mountain.

Enjoy the best of Java

Nestled between Sumatra and Bali, the volcano-dotted island of Java sits at the geographic centre of Indonesia. The sprawling capital, Jakarta – a modern city with upscale hotels and shopping malls – is defined by a historic mix of Javanese, Malay, Chinese, Arab, Indian and European cultures, which have all influenced its language, architecture and cuisine. The old town, Kota Tua, is home to Dutch colonial buildings and the urban village of Glodok (Jakarta’s Chinatown), while traditional wooden schooners dock at the old port of Sunda Kelapa.

The pride of Jakarta, the expansive National Museum, provides a wonderful insight into Indonesia’s prehistoric past and cultural heritage through over 100,00 objects including stone inscriptions, batik cloths, and gold and silver ornaments and jewellery once owned by the rajahs and sultans of the archipelago.

Elsewhere in Java, your Club should visit the legendary 1,200-year-old Buddhist temple, Borobudur – famed for being the largest of its kind in the world. Across the fertile countryside around Dieng Plateau, witness stunning geothermal features like the bubbling volcanic crater of Kawah Sikidang and the turquoise-coloured scenic lake, Telaga Warna. And in East Java, catch the breathtaking sight of the sun rising across the vast collapsed crater at the Tengger Caldera, perched high in the hills between Malang and Probolinggo. ■

Borobodur Temple ranks easily among the greatest Buddhist monuments in the world

Formerly called Batavia, the old town Kota Tua is a must-visit during a stay in Jakarta

AT A GLANCE

Java, Indonesia

Kota Tua old town, Jakarta

Glodok Chinatown, Jakarta

National Museum, Jakarta

Japan is backand openfor travel

Fully escorted tours from $5,200 pp for a 10 day tour.

We deal directly with Japan, no intermediaries, no middle man. That means cheaper, safer and more flexible tours, with our signature personable and personalised service.

Led by Satoko Franks, a native of Kyoto, Japan, we have been taking tours to Japan for more than 15 years. Living in Australia for some 40 years, Satoko understands what Aussies are looking for in a tour. We know they are keen to learn when they travel, to gain insights into the people and customs of Japan and we believe that the best way to deliver this is with small fully escorted group tours. Our past Probian tours have ranged from 10 to 40 passengers.

CONTACT US FOR A NO-OBLIGATION CHAT AND INFO TO GET YOU STARTED.

Getting started

Map out the key elements of your ideal tour

What season?

The pale pastel pinks of Spring, vivid orange and red Autumn colours, verdant green of the sultry Summer, vivid white snowscapes of Northern Winter.

What duration tour would you like?

16 -22 days are popular.

What type of tour?

Cultural, art, sightseeing, culinary, craft? Or a mixture of them all?

What style of accommodation?

4-5 star? Include a stay in a ryokan or country village for a real Japan experience.

Where to go in Japan?

The Golden Route of the main island Honshu includes dynamic Tokyo, traditional Kyoto, historic Kanazawa, vibrant Osaka and poignant Hiroshima – but then again there are are more than one golden routes.

A northern tour might include the northern island of Hokkaido, with its indigenous Ainu tribes and wilderness areas.

A southern tour could include the art island of Naoshima, mountainous Shikoku, volcanic Kyushu and the tropical island of Okinawa.

How to get around?

Transport can be a treat in itself and include anything from Bullet Train to rickshaw.

Call us 1300 880 819, email us contact@janescotravel.com or visit our website www.janescotravel.com

JANESCO Travel is a proud member of the Probus Member Benefits Scheme

Alhambra Palace, Granada, Spain

Europe

There’s nowhere quite like Europe for history, culture and romance combined with countless opportunities to be inspired by attractions both manmade and natural. From spectacular coastlines and castles to impressive markets and mountains, Europe is a destination that never disappoints. Let’s explore one of the world’s great continents…

Make your way around Ireland

Is there a more enchanting destination than Ireland? In the cosmopolitan capital, Dublin, members can join a walking tour of the city’s historic centre and go deep below ground to the crypt of Christ Church Cathedral to discover a wealth of Irish history and treasure – not to mention some weird and wonderful artefacts. Elsewhere, don’t miss Dublin’s colourful shopping thoroughfare, Grafton Street, the gardens of St. Stephen’s Green, or Phoenix Park, the largest enclosed city park in Europe.

Take your group on a scenic journey through rolling green hills and dramatic coastal landscapes. Kiss the Blarney Stone at the medieval stronghold of Blarney Castle near Cork. See the spot where St. Patrick preached at the awe-inspiring Rock of Cashel. Warm up with a tasting tour at the Old Midleton Distillery, home of Jameson Irish Whiskey. Travel via the breathtaking Caha Pass to Killarney, then step back in time with a traditional Irish jaunting car ride through Killarney National Park. Pop into colourful towns on the popular Ring of Kerry drive. Leaving the rugged south coast behind, make your way to the iconic Cliffs of Moher – where you can stand on top of 200-metre high cliffs or admire the imposing coastline from a ferry as it sails for the ethereal Aran Islands. On the smallest island, Inisheer, members can tour the stone wall labyrinth or change the pace with a sweater knitting workshop.

1. Croatia’s magnificent Korčula island is a highlight of the Adriatic coast

2. No trip to Lisbon is complete without sampling the iconic Portuguese tart, pastel de nata

Unlock the joys of lively Lisbon

In Portugal’s sun-drenched capital, Lisbon, history and tradition meet all the excitement of a global city. Located on the banks of the Tejo estuary, the Belém district is one of the most charming districts of Lisbon and a photographers’ paradise. The Belém Tower has been guarding Lisbon since the 16th century. Not only is it a UNESCO World Heritage site, but it also offers visitors some of the best views of Belém and across the Tagus River.

The breathtaking World Heritage listed Jerónimos Monastery, built in the late Gothic style, houses the tombs of several important figures in Portuguese history. From its dramatic exterior to its elaborate carvings and stonework,

the monastery is well worth a visit. Further up the river, the Monument to the Discoveries celebrates the Portuguese Age of Discovery. Just a short walk from the monastery and the Belém Tower, it offers a fascinating insight into the history of Portugal.

Lisbon is a haven for food lovers too. The LX Factory, in the neighbourhood Alcântara, is filled with street art, trendy boutiques, and great cafes. And don’t leave Lisbon without sampling some of its specialties, like the bacalhau (salted cod) or a pastel de nata, the iconic Portuguese tart. End the trip with an evening at a local pub or cafe to experience expressive and melancholic fado, Portugal’s unique style of song.

Cruise the Adriatic Coast

For centuries the Adriatic Coast has inspired lovers of the sea and those drawn to its fascinating contrast of dramatic landscapes, medieval monuments and Mediterranean charm. Experience the best of the Balkans on a cruise along the alluring coastlines of Croatia, Montenegro, Albania and Greece. Walk the city walls of Dubrovnik – the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’ – admiring its miraculously restored old town from above. Hop across a few of Croatia’s 1,000-plus islands –including the dense green forests and red tile roofs of Korčula.

In Montenegro, bask in the beauty of sapphire waters gently rolling onto perfect white sand beaches. Discover the fjord-like Bay of Kotor, enclosed by rugged cliffs and quaint towns including the well-preserved medieval town of Kotor, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Slightly inland at the border of Montenegro and Albania you’ll find the largest lake in Southern Europe, Lake Skadar, home to diverse wildlife and a medieval monastery situated on a small island. Stop at Butrint, Albania, an ancient Greek and later Roman city known for its archaeological remains including an ancient theatre and Venetian castle. Finally, visit Sami on the largest of the Ionian Islands, Cephalonia, where the 2001 movie Captain Corelli’s Mandolin was filmed.

3. The Rock of Cashel perches majestically on a rocky outcrop in Ireland’s County Tipperary

4. Lisbon’s LX Factory complex houses loads of cafes, boutique stores and creative spaces, such as the photo-friendly Ler Davagar bookstore

5. Sami is famous as the setting for Hollywood film Captain Corelli’s Mandolin

See Christmas markets in imperial cities

Dreaming of a magical Christmas or simply compelled to explore Central Europe in winter? The sublime Christmas markets in the imperial cities of Vienna, Prague and Budapest are beckoning your Club.

Few Christmas markets enjoy a grander or more romantic setting than those in the Austrian capital of Vienna. The biggest and most famous is located in front of Rathaus, Vienna City Hall, and the adjacent park. Your members will enjoy the stunning Christmas tree, sparkling lights and stalls offering food and unique gifts.

AT A GLANCE

Budapest’s Christmas markets are considered among the most beautiful on the continent. From the main Christmas fair in Vörösmarty Square to the famous Advent Feast at St. Stephen’s Basilica, visitors are spoiled for choice as they walk the streets discovering Hungarian specialties and seeing the work of local craftspeople in wooden stalls along the way.

The main Christmas markets of Prague are held at the Old Town Square and Wenceslas Square in the heart of the city, where the intoxicating smells of roasted chestnuts, glazed apples, gingerbread and mulled wine fill the air. Christmas carols ring out and the mighty decorated Christmas tree stands tall and proud for locals and tourists alike. It is a spectacular sight set against the dark Gothic skyline.

Enjoy these Christmas Markets mixed with fine classical music on Great Trains of Europe’s Christmas Markets & Classical Music Tour, a 21-day tour starting on 30 November 2022 and 2023 ( greattrainsofeurope.com.au).

Be surprised by Switzerland

Switzerland is home to precision watches, fine cheeses and excellent chocolate, but so much more awaits your members on a trip to this surprising Central European country. The capital, Bern, is said to be one of the most laid-back cities in the world. Built on a crook in the Aare River, the UNESCO Listed medieval old town offers an enchanting welcome. Take a guided walking tour around the city and enjoy the local specialty, Zürcher Geschnetzeltes (thinly sliced, pan-fried veal topped with a creamy white wine sauce).

Many other Swiss wonders await beyond Bern. Even for those not planning to ski or hike, the alps boast numerous

Get in the festive spirit at Prague’s Old Town Christmas markets

Switzerland’s capital, Bern, is an underrated European city that’s full of surprises

The famous P main entrance to the world’s most-visited Museum: The Louvre in Paris

The RHS Chelsea Flower Show was first held in 1913 and in 2023 will enter its 111th year

Glide down the Seine on a scenic Parisien river cruise

picture-perfect lakes, and the cities and towns of Switzerland are steeped in history and tradition.

The exquisite Chateau de Chillon, presiding over Lake Geneva, is a must. Beginning life as a Roman outpost, today the castle is Switzerland’s most visited historic site. Enjoy the Swiss National Museum in Zurich, the breathtaking beauty of Lake Lucerne, or visit a cheese factory in, you guessed it, Gruyère! Saint Gallen, in north-eastern Switzerland, is home to the World Heritage Listed Abbey of St. Gall, a medieval monastery and adjoining library, considered one of the oldest and most beautiful surviving libraries in Europe.

Want to see a bit more of Europe before you begin to explore Switzerland? Sail along the Rhine River – starting in Amsterdam, passing through Germany and France, and then disembarking in Basel, Switzerland – with Avalon Waterways’ incredible Romantic Rhine cruise. For the ultimate experience, stay in the Panorama Suite. It’s 30% larger than the industry standard with an open-air balcony and bed facing towards the wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows – so you can wake up each morning facing the magnificent scenery (avalonwaterways.com.au)!

Check out the Chelsea

Flower Show

Club members don’t need a green thumb to enjoy the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) Chelsea Flower Show, just an appreciation of all things horticultural. This is a garden show like no other, held for five days each May in the beautiful

grounds of the Royal Hospital in Chelsea, London, and attended by members of the British Royal Family along with over 150,000 visitors each year.

World-renowned garden designers, florists and specialist nurseries come together to dazzle and impress with unique, colourful displays. Learn about rare flowers and plants, see creative floral artworks and spot emerging garden trends. Even fashion brands launch their latest lines here! Your members will marvel at gardens of every size and type, from show gardens and foraging gardens to balcony gardens and sanctuary gardens. Explore wellness gardens, sculptural gardens, sustainable gardens and so much more. And after all that walking, take refreshment with lunch in the Picnic Pavilion or a meal and a glass of champagne in one of the fine restaurants on site. Each year the event takes on a much-anticipated special theme; visit the RHS website for information on tickets and programming (rhs.org.uk/showsevents/rhs-chelsea-flower-show).

Fall in love with Paris

Cities don’t come much more iconic than Paris. Here is just a taste of its countless highlights, should your Club members be lucky enough to explore the city of love.

Begin your visit in the medieval courtyards and pretty streets of Marais, then make your way to the Centre Pompidou where the extensive modern art collection is rivalled only by the building – a work of art in itself.

Stroll through the beautiful Tuileries Garden, or relax on a boat ride down the Seine. Join the queue to the Louvre and glimpse that famous Mona Lisa smile, and of course take a photo in front of the Eiffel Tower. From the rooftop of the Arc de Triomphe you’ll be rewarded with one of the best views of Paris, and afterwards you can explore the designer stores, street cafes and historic buildings of Avenue des Champs-Élysées.

From the cobblestones of Montmartre, climb the steps of the Basilica Sacré-Coeur to marvel at its incredible architectural detail and artwork, and take in more panoramic views of the city. And of course, you must eat like a local in a city renowned for its gastronomic delights. Bon voyage!

Admire the architectural wonders of Spain

If your Club is passionate about architecture, don’t hesitate to travel to Spain. La Sagrada Família in Barcelona, an architectural wonder from renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, is notable for its 140 years of continual construction. This Roman Catholic church defies belief, combining elements of Art Nouveau, Catalan Modernism and Spanish Late Gothic design, inspired by the shapes and forms of nature.

Designed by American-Canadian architect Frank Gehry, the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao is as famous for its ground-breaking 20th-century architecture as its content. Its shimmering titanium construction and flowing ship shapes, towers and flying fins have a mesmerising impact.

1. Marvellous Alhambra Palace was the royal residence and court of Granada in the 13th century

2. Rothenburg ob der Tauber is a delightful fairytale-like town on Germany’s “Romantic Road“

3. Seville is the heartland of Flamenco, Spain’s most well-known style of dance

4. Located in Bavaria, Neuschwanstein Castle is truly one of the most breathtaking castles in the world

5. Jazz lovers enjoy the sights and sounds of Denmark’s Vinterjazz Festival

the

World and one of the

Islamic palaces of the Moorish monarchs of Granada. Its rich decorative elements, combined with stunning gardens and fountains, draw visitors from all over the globe. In addition, the complex contains significant examples of Spanish Renaissance architecture.

In every Spanish town you’ll find a plaza, but few are as extraordinary as the 50,000 square-metre Plaza de España in Seville. Built in 1928, it’s a landmark example of regionalism architecture, mixing elements of Baroque, Renaissance and Moorish Revival styles. The result is one of the most imposing plazas in Spain with breathtaking multicoloured tiled alcoves.

Take the Romantic Road through Germany

Southern Germany’s Romantic Road begins in the historic city of Würzburg and winds its way to Fussen, traversing over 450km of picturesque scenery, castles, palaces and medieval towns. Based loosely on the old trade route, the journey retains much of its medieval character. See the historic cities of Augsburg or Würzburg with its World Heritage listed Baroque palace, or explore the three medieval walled towns of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Dinkelsbühl and Nördlingen. At the end of the road in Fussen, the highlight is Neuschwanstein Castle, which truly could be taken from the pages of a fairytale!

The Alhambra Palace is one of the Seven Wonders of

Muslim

best-preserved

There are several airports that give your members good entry and exit points to the Romantic Road, particularly Munich and Frankfurt, and various organised tours are available. But part of the charm for many is stopping here and there, so those with time may wish to make their way slowly, discovering the delights of this wonderful region as they go. One word of warning: this unique experience is incredibly popular among travellers, so no matter the time of year, you’d be wise to book accommodation well in advance.

Join a 15-day Magnificent Europe Luxury River Cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest (or reverse) with APT and you’ll partake in a rich itinerary that includes German Romantic Road destinations such as Wurzburg and Rothenburg, as well as the best of the Netherlands, Austria, Czech Republic and Hungary (aptouring.com.au).

Feel the music at Vinterjazz Festival

Any jazz fans in the Club? Taking place throughout the whole of Denmark for three weeks each February, Vinterjazz features famous international jazz musicians as well as the best of Danish jazz artists. This festival has something for every jazz lover, with more than 600 concerts across 150 venues, from small wine bars and beautiful churches to big concert halls and a number of outdoor events.

Hop your way around the country from the historic jazz capital of Copenhagen to Aalborg, Aarhus, Odense and Esbjerg. The printed program is available at all the venues, and at selected cafes and libraries all over the country. Alternatively, members can download the app to access the festival program and information about all the performances.

The unique concept of a diverse, nationwide jazz festival truly puts live music on the map here. And even if you’re not a jazz lover, there are plenty of variations on the theme to enjoy, with all genres of jazz-inspired music including blues, bossa nova, funk and soul being played at live venues throughout the festival. One of the coolest events in Europe truly heats up the Danish winter. ■

AT A GLANCE

APT 15-day Magnificent Europe Luxury River Cruise

1300 214 938 aptouring.com.au

Vinterjazz Festival, Denmark jazz.dk/en/copenhagenjazz-festival-2022/

USA & Canada

Prepare for an overseas holiday that dreams are truly made of – your Club is heading to the vast continent of North America, where natural and cultural diversity know no bounds. Whether the trip takes you to the USA, Canada or perhaps even both on the ultimate group itinerary, a memorable experience awaits lucky members with an eye for adventure.

USA

Cruise amazing Alaska

Another world awaits your Club on a cruise through amazing Alaska – home to truly epic scenery including icy glaciers and mountain peaks. Fancy spotting Arctic and aquatic wildlife such as humpback whales, bears, moose, wolves, sea otters, and bald eagles soaring through the sky? What about enjoying the spectacular sight of a calving glacier?

Other highlights might include exploring the urban wilderness and historic downtown of Anchorage, admiring the impressive Trans-Alaska Pipeline System, marvelling at snow-capped Mount Denali (North America’s highest peak), boarding the famous Alaskan Railroad, venturing into Kenai Fjords National Park, and spending time at

1. Grand Canyon National Park is a prime example of a destination that’s even more impressive in person than it is in pictures –and it looks pretty darn amazing in pictures

2. The mountains of Alaska contain some of the most stunning scenery you’ll see in your lifetime

3. Visit living history museum Colonial Williamsburg for a taste of life at the dawn of the USA

4. Jamestown was the first permanent English settlement in the Americas

5. Unlock the rugged beauty of Alaska with a journey along the 760km Alaskan Railroad

year-round tourism destination, Fairbanks, known as the ‘Golden Heart City’, where the sun never seems to set on extraordinarily long summer days. Plus, be sure to journey to a recreated Athabascan village and learn about the lives of the hunting and gathering people who made their homes along the region’s rivers.

Culture and history buffs will also love the Valdez Museum, where visitors can delve into the rich heritage of this port city and remarkable surrounding areas including the Copper River Basin and Prince William Sound. And beyond all this, Alaska provides a rare opportunity to see the stunning Northern Lights.

Visit Southwest national parks

A journey deep into the American Southwest is one your Club will not soon forget. Making your way through one or more states including Utah, Arizona, New Mexico and Southern Colorado, discover the unique landscapes and diverse wildlife of this region’s must-see national parks.

Your itinerary will likely include Grand Canyon National Park – renowned for incredible sunrise and sunset vistas from its numerous overlooks. You’ll also find deep canyons, massive red sandstone cliffs and emerald pools running through Utah’s Zion National Park. In Bryce Canyon National Park, sitting at an elevation of 8,000 feet, members can walk along the rim to absorb the multicoloured sandstone pinnacles and spires (hoodoos) rising impressively from nature’s amphitheatre. Meanwhile, the aptly named Arches National Park is home to over 2,000

natural stone arches – the highest concentration anywhere in the world. The most famous of these, Delicate Arch, is a definite highlight, but a number of arches will get your cameras clicking too.

Nearby Canyonlands National Park, where the Green River and the Colorado River come together, is best known as the place Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid hid from the law in the late 1800s. Last but by no means least, visit iconic Monument Valley, home to the Navajo Indians and the setting for many of the best western films ever made.

Traverse the Historic Triangle

A tour of the ‘Historic Triangle’ will transport members back to early America. Walk in the steps of the Founding Fathers of the United States as you visit three colonial communities on the Virginia Peninsula – Jamestown, Colonial Williamsburg and Yorktown. Along the way, discover a number of important historic sites, trade shops and museums.

Start in Jamestown, where the first English settlers landed in 1607. Here you’ll find the remains of the 18th-century Ambler Mansion, the centrepiece of a plantation estate. The homestead is renowned for its Georgian-style façade. The nearby living history museum of Jamestown Settlement recreates an early 17th-century fort along with three ships and a Powhatan Indian village. The city’s heart is the historic district of Colonial Williamsburg, which contains a wonderful living history museum depicting everyday colonial life. Finally, at Yorktown, your group will see the

site of the siege and British defeat that effectively ended the American Revolutionary War in 1781. Yorktown sits on the banks of the York River, a major water highway for Navy ships on both sides throughout the battle. Highlights here include the American Revolution Museum, the recreated Continental Army Encampment and a driving tour of Yorktown Battlefield.

AT A GLANCE

Continental Army Encampent, Yorktown

CANADA

Spend some time in Toronto

The cosmopolitan city of Toronto is a dynamic destination as well as a gateway to the best of Eastern Canada. Recognised at first glance for its plethora of soaring skyscrapers – most notably the free-standing CN Tower that stretches high above the rest of the cityscape – Toronto is also much more than its instantly striking contemporary architecture.

Club members will appreciate the abundance of green urban spaces including Queen’s Park and 400-acre High Park. You’ll want to visit the Royal Ontario Museum, one of the largest and most popular cultural institutions in North America housing a superb collection of 13 million works.

For fresh produce and something delicious to eat, check out St. Lawrence Market – a hub of activity for over 200 years and in 2012 named the world’s best food market by National Geographic

And don’t miss Toronto Islands, a collection of small islands in adjacent Lake Ontario that you can reach on a short ferry ride from downtown Toronto. Here members can

1 2

1. Vast mountain wilderness Kluane National Park has 17 of Canada’s 20 highest peaks

2. Whitehorse’s Yukon Transportation Museum brings to life the history of transportation in one of the world’s most inhospitable regions

3. The Goodheram Building, located in downtown Toronto

4. The Royal Ontario Museum boasts an astonishing collection of over 13 million works

5. The Igloo Church is one of Northwest Territories town Inuvik’s most popular attractions

make the most of pristine beaches, wide-open picnic spaces and even a petting farm full of friendly residents including a pygmy billy goat and a pot-bellied pig.

Take the highway to the Arctic

For those keen to take the road slightly less travelled, a journey through Canada’s Yukon and Northwest Territories will not disappoint. Start in wild, mountainous Yukon, where members can visit the ‘wilderness city’, Whitehorse – home of the fascinating Yukon Transportation Museum –before detouring west to marvel at the ice fields and forests of Kluane National Park and Reserve, boasting the Alsek River and Canada’s highest peak, Mount Logan.

Travelling north, stop at the 19th-century gold rush destination of Dawson City for a taste of the wild west, before continuing this magnificent road trip along the Dempster Highway to the town of Inuvik on the freshwater Mackenzie River and Delta, the largest of its kind in Canada. Inuvik (meaning ‘place of people’) offers urban comforts within an Arctic setting that feels nothing like home. Your view to the majestic Richardson Mountains is one to savour.

More intrepid travellers might make it all way to Tuktoyaktuk – once accessible only by boat, plane or a winter ice road, but now able to be reached throughout the year via Canada’s first highway to the Arctic, the Inuvik-toTuktoyaktuk Highway. ■

DIRECTORY

Probus Travel Partners

(AUSTRALIA ONLY)

The Travel Corporation travel.ttc.com/en-au/probus pages 62, 77, 86, 112

Trade Travel tradetravel.com.au pages 42, 64, 76, 82

Outback Aussie Tours outbackaussietours.com.au page 78

SeaLink sealink.com.au page 91

Coal River Coaches lovetasmaniatours.com.au pages 100, 103

APT aptouring.com.au page 147

Accommodation

Carrington Hotel, Katoomba 40

Hara House, Bright 71

Metropole Guest House, Katoomba 40

Tarraleah Lodge 102

Wilpena Pound Resort 96

Art & Culture

Art and Wine Co 48

Art Gallery of Western Australia 82

Art Masterclass Braddon 108

Art Street Katoomba 40

Blue Mountains City Art Gallery 40

Blue Room Theatre 82

Bright Art Gallery and Cultural Centre 71

Byron Bay Gallery 48

Cummins Theatre 83

Federation Square 60

Fleurieu Art Trails 91

Gallery One88 Fine Arts 40

Jilamara Arts 112

Kimba Silo Art Trail 94

The King’s Castle Parkes 54

Living Desert & Sculpture Symposium 54

Lost Bear Gallery 40

Maryborough Mural Trail 76

Munupi Arts & Crafts 112

Museum and Art Gallery of the NT 112

National Gallery of Victoria 58

Nature’s Powerhouse 77

Ninbella Gallery 48

Nob Creek Pottery 76

North East Victoria Silo Art Trail 71

QUT Art Museum 74

Rex Livingston Art + Objects 40

RMIT Design Hub 60

Tiwi by Design Tours 112

Tiwi Design 112

Wimmera Mallee Silo Art Trail 64

Wiradjuri Amphitheatre & Bushtucker Garden 54

Yaburara Heritage Trail 86

Cruises & Boats

Captain Cook Cruises 38

Cronulla Ferries 40

SeaLink Rottnest Island 82

Sydney Tall Ships 38

Yellow Water Cruise 112

Events

Aussie Peace Walk 108

Byron Bay International Film Festival 48

Chinchilla Melon Festival 74

Kyneton Daffodil and Arts Festival 66

Manjimup Cherry Harmony Festival 84

Taste of Summer Festival 100

Food, Dining & Shopping

ABC Cheese Factory (Tilba Real Dairy) 44

Adelaide Central Market 90

Beechworth Honey Shop 70

Chocolate Factory Gosford 42

Daily Dough Co 40

Dromedary Hotel 44

Eumun-Tea 44

Frank’s Ciderhouse & Cafe 100

Historic Terrace Houses Kiama 44

Knappstein Wines 90 Mr Goaty Gelato 42

Murray’s Brewery 42

National Wine Centre of Australia 90

Pagan Cider Cellar Door 100

Pepo Farms 71

Robe Town Brewery 92

Sarina Sugar Shed 76

Scarborough Hotel 44 Tilba Teapot Cafe 44 Toms Cap Vineyard 68 Willie Smith’s Apple Shed 100

History & Heritage

Amusu Theatre 52

Australian War Memorial 106 Beechworth Courthouse 70 Beechworth Telegraph Station 70 Berrima Courthouse 46

Coal Creek Community Park and Museum 68 Cockatoo Island 38 Elizabeth Farm Rosehill 38 Flinders Street Station 58

Forum Theatre 58

Gledswood Homestead & Winery 38

The Gothic Bank 58

Kryal Castle 66

Lambie Town Walk Cooma 46

Line of Lode Miner’s Memorial 54 Mary Ann Steam Train 76

National Film and Sound Archive 106 NSW Parliament House 38 The Old Gaol Robe 92

Old Government House 74 Old Treasury Building 58 Overnewton Castle 60

Parliament House Melbourne 58

Peak Hill Gold Mine Experience 52 Rathmore House 100

Rouse Hill Estate 38

Royal Exhibition Building 58

St Joseph’s Cathedral Rockhampton 76

Singing Ship Monument 76

Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre 46

Sovereign Hill 66

Spray Tunnel 102

State Library of Victoria 58

The Stick Shed 64

Tree of Knowledge 78

Vaucluse House 38

Walhalla Goldfields Railway 68

West Coast Heritage Centre Zeehan 102

Museums

Australian Army Flying Museum 74 Australian Opal Centre 54 Burke Museum 70 Chinese Museum 60 Cooktown Museum 77

Dalby Pioneer Park Museum 74

Darwin Aviation Museum 112

Eureka Centre 66

Goondiwindi Customs House Museum 75

HARS Aviation Museum 44 Justice & Police Museum 38 Killarney Heritage Centre 75 Kyneton Museum 66 Merredin Military Museum 83 Merredin Railway Museum 83 Murtoa Water Tower Museum 64 Museum of Sydney 38 National Vietnam Veterans Museum 68 Nhill Aviation Heritage Museum 64

Pilot’s Cottage Museum 44

Sir Henry Parkes Memorial School of Arts 48

WA Museum Boola Bardip 82

Wimmera-Mallee Pioneer Museum 64 Woods Farming & Heritage Museum 64

Scenic / Landmarks

Adelaide Botanic Garden 90 Admirals Arch 91 Agnes Falls 68

Amigo’s Castle 54

Anzac Hill Alice Springs 114 Arkaroola 96 Australian National Botanic Garden 108 Bald Hill Lookout 44 Bay of Fires 103

Big Galah Kimba 94

Big Orange Berri 92

The Blowhole Hepburn Springs 66

Blue Lotus Water Garden 69

Budj Bim Cultural Landscape 62

Campaspe River Walk 66

Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse 84

Cape Otway Lighthouse 62

Capricorn Caves 76

City Botanic Gardens Brisbane 74

Corrigan Suspension Bridge 68

Crystal Castle and Shambhala Gardens 48

Darwin Botanic Gardens 112

Dryandra Woodland National Park 82 El Questro 86

Eungella National Park 77 Green Island 78

Hepburn Mineral Springs Reserve 66 Honeycomb Gorge 85

Hunter Valley Gardens 42 Hearson Cove 86

Katherine (Nitmiluk) Gorge 113

Kepwari Wetland Trail 84

Kiama Blowhole 44

La Trobe Swing Bridge 68

Lake Grace Lookout 83

Lara Wetlands 78

Leliyn (Edith Falls) 113

Low Head Coastal Reserve 102

Maria Island 103

Mataranka Hot Springs 113

Meadowbank Dam 100

Melbourne Skydeck 60

Moreton Bay Marine Park 74

National Arboretum Canberra 108 Ngilgi Cave 84

Ningaloo Reef 85

Nourlangie Rock 112

Obelisk Coastal Trail 92

Organ Pipes National Park 60

Paronella Park 77

Pildappa Rock 94

Port Fairy Lighthouse 62 Remarkable Rocks 91

Rhyll Inlet 68

Sea Cliff Bridge 44

Silverton Ghost Town 54

Super Pit Lookout 84

Tarra-Bulga National Park 68

Toowoomba Japanese Garden 74

Turtle Lookout Bluff Point 76

Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk 84

Ubirr 112

WA Botanic Garden 82 Wave Rock 82

Wilpena Pound 96 Wreck Beach 62 Yorketown Salt Lake Trail 94

Sport

Gunsynd Memorial Statue 75

SCG & Allianz Stadium Tours 40

Sir Donald Bradman Birthplace Museum 50

Wildlife

Adelaide Zoo 90

Altina Wildlife Park 50

Charleville Bilby Experience 78

Free Range Emu Farm Toodyay 83

Fraser Coast Wildlife Sanctuary 76

Healesville Sanctuary 69

Hunter Valley Wildlife Park 42

Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park 91

Koorana Crocodile Farm 76

Oakvale Wildlife Park 42

Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary 42

Quentin Park Alpacas 52

Seal Bay Conservation Park 91

Symbio Wildlife Park 44

Miscellaneous / Tours

Agricultural Tours Riverina 50

Balloon Joy Flights Canowindra 52

Bridestowe Lavender Estate 102

Coach Tours Tasmania 102

Hello Koalas Sculpture Trail 48

Kalgoorlie-Boulder Audio Walking Tour 84

Lightning Ridge Car Door Tours 54

Miles Franklin Tours Goulburn 46

Oakfield Ranch Camel Tours 42

Outback Ballooning 114

Phillip Island Helicopters 68

Pyndan Camel Tracks 114

Roma Saleyards 78

Silver City Tours 54

Vintage Rail Journeys 52

Willie Creek Pearl Farm 86

Ph: 02 9523 2990 Fx: 02 9544 1293

Email: info@cronullaferries.com.au

Public Wharf, Tonkin Street, Gunnamatta Bay, Cronulla P.O Box 254, Cronulla NSW 2230

day out for

Enjoy the short scenic cruise aboard the M.V. Curranulla from Cronulla to Bundeena, gateway to the Royal National Park, by taking advantage of the hourly commuter service. Explore the park, stroll along idyllic sandy beaches, have lunch at Bundeena R.S.L or relax at one of the local cafes.

Web: cronullaferries.com.au

Ph: 02 9523 2990 Fx: 02 9544 1293

Email: info@cronullaferries.com.au Web: cronullaferries.com.au

- � - - Enjoy the short the M.V. Curranulla to Bundeena, National Park, the hourly commuter he park, stroll eaches, ha R.S.L or rela

-

Discover in 3 hours what Bass and Flinders discovered in 3 days –explore the Port Hacking on a scenic river cruise onboard the M.V. Tom Thumb 111. You will see breathtaking views of the Royal National Park, learn about early explorers, historical settlements, deer fanning in the park and the state’s first fish hatchery. A commentary and morning tea is provided on all cruises.

Public Wharf, Tonkin Street, Gunnamatta Bay, Cronulla

P.O Box 254, Cronulla NSW 2230 | Ph: 02 9523 2990

Email: info@cronullaferries.com.au | Web: cronullaferries.com.au

Discover in 3 hours what Bass and Flinders discovered i n 3 days, explore the Port Hacking on a scenic river cruise onboard the M.V. Tom Thumb 111. You will see breath taking views of the Royal National Park, learn about early explorers, historical settlements, deer fanning in the park and the

Cruise on the Port Hacking with a difference. The T.S.M.V. Gunnamatta is a modern twin deck catamaran with a luxurious interior surrounded by large glass windows allowing for panoramic views of the stunning Hacking River. We offer a range of menus and cruises for you to enjoy from champagne breakfast cruises, a variety of lunch cruises and also sunset dinner cruises as both scheduled and charter cruises. All cruises are a fantastic day out for any group.

aboard of Explore afes. ore b ews about settlements, morning Lunch groups. Gunnamatta is with a large panoramic River. cruises lunch cruises cruises. for

Street, Gunnamatta Cronulla NSW 2990 Fx: 02 9544 info@cronullaferries.com.au cronullaferries.com.au - � --�