16 minute read
TRAVEL
Take a cruise – in the Outback
You don’t have to go to sea or the rivers of Europe for a memorable cruise experience –there’s a treat waiting right here in the Queensland Outback.
Head 1200km north-west to Longreach where, throughout the winter season, you can see an outback sunset to the tune of the gentle slap-slap of paddlewheels on the lazy Thomson River.
Then tuck into a stockman’s dinner around the campfire under the stars and pioneer entertainment – quintessential Australia at its finest.
The Starlight’s Cruise Experience has been so popular that operators Outback Pioneers bought an additional boat in 2022.
In an unlikely overland journey, the historic paddlewheeler Pride of the Murray, was brought 1170km north to Longreach and has become something of a tourist attraction in her own right.
Outback Pioneers founder and owner, Richard Kinnon, was behind the Pride of the Murray’s incredible journey.
“We’re all about sharing the stories of this great outback land and I wanted a boat with her own stories to tell,” he said.
“From her days as a wool barge nearly a century ago, she has come to Longreach, once the wool capital of the world, for a new role.”
The cruise is just one of the activities making Longreach an increasingly popular destination. There is enough to do in the region to fill a week – and it all feels like a different world.
Time moves a little more slowly under wide blue skies, meals are bigger and the country’s pioneering past is ever present.
Stay at The Staging Post in the heritage heart of town for the full pioneer-inspired atmosphere and fill the days with outback experiences that will entertain and educate.
Ride the old bush mail route with the creak and rattle of the stagecoach as the pounding horses’ hooves raise the bull-dust on the Cobb & Co Stagecoach Experience.
The Nogo Station Experience is a station safari by double-decker open-top bus to learn the secrets of feral, domestic and native animals as well as the merino story in the historic shearing sheds.
And there’s always the famous Qantas Founders Museum and the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame.
At Winton, a day tour from Longreach, follow the footsteps of Banjo Paterson and visit the Matilda Centre and the North Gregory Hotel where Waltzing Matilda was first performed. Winton has also become famous for the Australian Age of Dinosaurs Museum.
Getting to Longreach is easy, even though it might seem remote. There are regular flights from Brisbane and Townsville or take the Spirit of the Outback train from Brisbane or Rockhampton.
Alternatively, take a drive on the Outback highways – no 4WD necessary.
For the ultimate relaxed experience, Outback Pioneers offers holiday packages from available April-October. Visit outbackpioneers.com.au
WAY DOWN UPON THE MURRAY RIVER
MANNUM, a little town packed with heritage-listings 80km east of Adelaide, has a big claim to fame – it was here that William Randell launched the first paddleboat on the Murray River.
The Mary Ann made its maiden voyage in 1853 and has now been faithfully restored. She remains at Mannum beside another legendary paddlewheeler, the Murray Princess.
The difference is that the Murray Princess, the southern hemisphere’s largest inland paddlewheeler, shares all the character and charm of yesteryear with visitors to travel the great outback river highway. Guests can sit in the lounge watching its massive stern wheel in action through a two-storey window.
A four-night cruise on the Murray Princess, is just one stage of an adventurous 11-day tour departing February 19, that also includes a trip to Kangaroo Island.
“By flying in and out of Adelaide we can pack a lot in and really see some of the out-of-the-way places,” says Paul Brockhurst of CT Travel.
The adventure begins with a tour of the city’s highlights before heading to the hills and Hahndorf, Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement. Along the way is the famous Beerenberg farm, chocolate and cheese, then it’s all aboard the Murray Princess at Mannum.
Revel in spectacular scenery, from towering cliffs to expansive farmlands, and an abundance of wildlife – 350 bird species inhabit the riverlands. Outside cabins provide a ring-side seat.
Onshore, taste the wine at a vineyard, visit a woolshed and step back tens of thousands of years at Ngaut Ngaut conservation park, one of Australia’s most significant archaeological sites.
At Victor Harbour, ride the historic Clydesdale-drawn tram before boarding the ferry at Cape Jervis for the 40-minute crossing to Kangaroo Island.
Three nights allows time to visit see it all, from two major wildlife areas to Cape Willoughby lighthouse, the Ligurian bees and Emu Ridge eucalyptus distillery.
Stop at McLaren Vale, the birthplace of the South Australian wine industry, before heading back to Adelaide for the flight home.
If you’re keen to get moving before then, head to the Hunter Valley Gardens for the Christmas Lights Spectacular.
The seven-day luxury coach journey leaves on November 25, and covers the sights of Warwick, Glen Innes, Armidale, and Tamworth before heading on to Scone and Singleton in the Hunter Valley.
Highlight is the Hunter Valley Gardens at Pokolobin, where 10 themed gardens showcase gardens around the world using native and exotic plants.
By the numbers, it has 8km of walking paths through 14ha of gardens with more than 6000 trees, 600,000 shrubs and over 1 million ground covers as well as waterfalls, statues, and murals.
Return at night for the annual Christmas Lights Spectacular, which last year won silver in the prestigious NSW Tourism Awards. More three million Christmas lights illuminate the gardens.
The round-trip returns over the beautiful Comboyne Plateau to Coffs Harbour and back up the east coast.
King Island, with a population of just under 1600, in the middle of Bass Strait calls for four days from February 6. A comprehensive tour covers its rugged coastline, fascinating history and famous dairy produce. Call 5391 1648 or visit cttravel.com.au
HERMAN’S TOURS & TRAVEL
DAY TRIPS 2022 & 2023 EXTENDED HOLIDAYS 2022 & 2023
Saturday 5 November: Eumundi Markets ..... $39
Friday 11 November:
Best of British – Fox & Hound Pub ................ $93*
Saturday 3 December:
Swing Into Christmas - Lunch & Show ........ $147* Saturday 28 January: Pumiceston Passage Cruise ........... $112* Saturday 25 February: Tweed River Cruise ....................... $165* 12 to 13 November: Downs Explorer Getaway
Twin Share $819 pp 19 to 20 May ’23:
Gympie - Mary Valley Rattler
Twin Share $929 pp Easter 2023: Tenterfi eld & Stanthorpe REGISTER NOW
26 to 29 May ’23: Opera in Capricorn Caves
REGISTER NOW! 3 to 8 August ’23 – Norfolk Island REGISTER NOW October 2023 – Tasmania REGISTER NOW
Extended holidays include return home transfers – Brisbane Metropolitan area. Single Supplements: Downs Explorer $81. Gympie Mary Valley Rattler $76.
Day Tours – * Includes Lunch. Extended holidays include return home transfers (Brisbane Metropolitan Area). Itineraries and prices quoted are subject to change.
Follow Us on Facebook @Hermanstravel RING NOW FOR BROCHURES HERMAN’S TOURS & TRAVEL CALL 3379 6255
International travel is back on the agenda and as well as monitoring the changes after Covid, it’s important to remember all the other precautions that were top of mind before 2020.
While the travel sector will take some time to fully recover to pre-pandemic levels, Allianz – one of the world’s largest assistance and insurance organisations – has seen a strong lift in demand for travel insurance in recent months.
As the travel landscape has changed immensely, Allianz has compiled a list of essential tips to consider before embarking on your international adventure: 1. It may seem obvious but research a destination before you book.
The smartraveller.gov.au website has the most up-to-date and comprehensive guide to destinations as well as any Australian Government travel advisories.
Covid policies and mandatory procedures can vary. The website provides important information on where to travel and where it might be better to leave for another time. It also has updates on airline requirements and mandatory health declarations and entry requirements.
It’s a good idea to consider if the destination has adequate vaccination rates or high infection numbers. 2. Don’t forget visa requirements
Don’t forget some of the standard requirements for international travel – visas. Countries can change entry or exit requirements at short notice. Check the latest information before leaving. 3. Be prepared for change at short notice and pack extra prescription medication.
Being stuck without daily essentials such as prescription medication can be problematic. Navigating language barriers and different brands is an unnecessary travel challenge so consult your GP before leaving and take extra medication just in case. For those with underlying health conditions, a GP visit could be a requirement of travel insurance. 4. Travel insurance
The accidents, food poisoning, falls and unexpected sicknesses that were the main consideration before Covid are still there and the cost of receiving medical treatment can be staggering.
Travel insurance can help provide cover for the unexpected and give travel confidence.
Compare policies, look for limits and exclusions and choose a policy that provides enough to cover costs. Consider whether the policy provides access to Australian-based medical assistance teams that have access to global medical networks. 5. Beat the fees and get an international debit card.
Currency conversion fees at an international ATM can be high. Avoid fees with a travel card. Some banks offer international debit cards with low to no upkeep fees, so do your research to find the right option. International debit cards allow seamless transfer between currencies. Most accounts don’t have an expiry date. 6. Carry proof of vaccination.
Hospitality, healthcare and entertainment venues may require proof of vaccination to enter their premises. The international COVID-19 vaccination certificate (ICVC) meets international standards and is easily scanned. Download it on your phone and carry a hard-copy along with your passport. 7. Dress sensibly
Packing clothing and footwear appropriate for planned activities can save time, money and memories. Handbag essentials include sunscreen, bug spray, hand sanitiser and a mask. Visit allianztravelinsurance.com/ travel/tips-advice
THE REAL OUTBACK. LIVE IT YOUR WAY!
3-day Longreach Storytelling Holiday
Arrive on a Monday and this premium short-break itinerary packs in the three signature Outback Pioneers experiences, two nights’ accommodation at The Staging Post and entry to the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Qantas Founders Museum. Fully escorted with transfers and most meals included. Includes VIP gift $1589*
6-days unleashing Longreach and Winton
Arrive on a Wednesday and settle in for five nights at The Staging Post accommodation. Enjoy all of Outback Pioneers experiences, including a Winton Discovery Day Tour, and entry to the Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Qantas Founders Museum. Fully escorted with transfers and most meals included. Includes Winton and VIP gift $2920*
C OM M E N DED E B R BEST OF Y QUEENSLAND EXPERIENCE TRA 2022 V E L LERS
* April-October 2023 prices. Twin-share. Ground content only.
Hooray for cruise holidays from Brisbane
Queensland Coastal
5-night cruise onboard Quantum of the Seas® Itinerary Brisbane • Airlie Beach • Brisbane Departs 26 February 2023 Interior from $599* pp | Balcony from $699* pp
South Paci ic Sunrises
-night cruise onboard Quantum of the Seas® Itinerary Brisbane • Noumea • Mystery Island • Port Vila • Brisbane Departs 15 February 2023 Interior from $999* pp | Balcony from $1,149* pp
South Pacific Explorer
8-night cruise onboard Quantum of the Seas® Itinerary Brisbane • Port Vila • Mystery Island • Noumea • Brisbane Departs 27 March 2023 Interior from $1,099* pp | Balcony from $1,299* pp
BOOK WITH YOUR LOCAL TRAVELLERS CHOICE AGENT NORTH CLAYFIELD TRAVEL PROFESSIONALS - 3862 1215 • EAST LATITUDE CRUISE & TRAVEL - 3286 7900 WEST TRAVEL MASTERPIECE - 3367 1644
*Conditions apply: Health & safety protocols, guest conduct rules & regional travel restrictions vary by ship & destination & are subject to change without notice. Imagery & messaging may not accurately reflect onboard & destination experiences, offerings, features or itineraries. These may not be available during your voyage, may vary by ship & destination & may be subject to change without notice. Prices are per person twin share cruise only in AUD unless otherwise specified. Prices correct as at 20 Sep 22 & subject to availability at time of booking. Queensland Coastal based on 26 Feb 23 departure. South Pacific Sunrises based on 15 Feb 23 departure. South Pacific Explorer based on 27 Mar 23 departure. Offers valid for new bookings only made by 31 Oct 22 for local & international sailings departing from 01 Sep 22 excluding Ultimate World Cruise & Expeditions departing 10 Dec 23. Balcony Upgrade is a Balcony stateroom (category XB) at the price of an Overview stateroom (equal to YO). A limited number of staterooms are available & the exact stateroom grade, number & location on the ship will be allocated at the discretion of Royal Caribbean International. No stateroom requests permitted. XB is a guarantee category with non-refundable deposit option only. Up to 30% off is a discount of up to 30% off the passengers’ cruise fare. Taxes, fees & port expenses are additional & apply to all guests. Changes to the booking may result in removal of the offer. Prices & offers are subject to availability & change without notice, capacity controlled & may be withdrawn at any time. Royal Caribbean International reserves the right to correct any errors, inaccuracies or omissions & to change or update fares, fees & surcharges at any time without prior notice. Refer to www.royalcaribbean.com/aus for complete terms & conditions. ©2022 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships’ registry: Bahamas. Further conditions may apply. Booking, cancellation & credit card service fees may apply. ATAS No. A10430
THE biggest and boldest ship ever to come to Australia Quantum of the Seas will be the star of Royal Caribbean’s Brisbane debut.
With the new Pinkenba cruise terminal as its home port, it will be sailing from next month and giving Queensland a new gateway to the South Pacific.
Sister ship, Ovation of the Seas, is also making its return and is ready to make up lost time for family cruise get-togethers.
Royal Caribbean is ready to launch summer 2022 sailing, with more than 15 dining venues, showstopping entertainment and, on Quantum class ships only, an abundance of at-sea innovations such as skydiving in the middle of the ocean.
Holder of the Guinness world record for the tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship at 100m above sea level, North Star towers above the ship for unrivalled 360-degree views. Beginners and experienced surfers can try boogie boarding and stand-up surfing on the FlowRider.
Heading inside from the pool deck, sit back to watch Broadway Style shows, made multi-dimensional so that audiences can immerse themselves in live performances with aerialists and video and digital scenery.
It’s all against a backdrop of 270-degree sea views through vast floor-to-ceiling glass walls spanning almost three decks at the ship’s stern.
For the grandkids, SeaPlex, the largest indoor active space at sea, is a distinctive and flexible sporting and entertainment venue that includes a full-size regulation basketball court and the first-ever bumper car and roller skating at sea.
Mixology meets technology at Royal’s Bionic Bar, where you can have your favourite cocktail mixed by a robot in a ballet-like performance. The robot arms can produce two drinks a minute for a total of 1000 drinks per day.
Sailings are from two to 13 nights, from Australia to the South Pacific islands and New Zealand. Bookings are now open for a Royal Caribbean summer cruise out of Brisbane. Visit travellerschoice.com.au to find your local ATAS-accredited Travellers Choice travel agent.
CT TRAVEL
Coolum Tours & Travel
2022/2023 Tour Program
November 2022 Hunter Valley Xmas Lights (6 Days)
February 2023 King Island (4 Days) Murray Princess & Kangaroo Island (11 Days)
March 2023 O’Reillys Escape (4 Days) Fraser Island Explorer (4 Days)
April 2023 Autumn > Canberra (9 Days) High Country to the Murray Delta (11 Days)
May 2023 Norfolk Island (9 Days)
Wooden walkway along Ketchikan Creek FANTASYLAND IN THE ALASKAN WILDERNESS
WITH much of Alaska inaccessible by road, a coastal cruise exploring some of its almost 55,000km coastline eases the logistical challenge of point-to-point travel.
Silversea’s Vancouver to Seward, near Anchorage, seven-day itineraries head deeper into Alaska than a round-trip.
Also known as a Gulf Crossing, the cruise visits Alaska’s top four ports and does a drive-by to North America’s largest glacier. The one-way route, choose either direction, also gives access – pre or post cruise – to the interior including Denali National Park.
Ketchikan, a town of about 8000 residents, has quaint wooden homes on the steep slopes and is famous for its fishing, especially salmon. Nearby at the 930,000ha wilderness Misty Fjords National Monument, waterfalls drop over 900m glacier-carved cliffs.
Juneau is the capital but don’t expect a metropolis – the town of 32,000 is literally cut off from the rest of the state by the sea on one side and the Juneau icefield on the other. It’s the only US state capital that can’t be accessed by road.
Skagway, “Gateway to the Klondike” is surrounded by wilderness and is part of a park dedicated to Alaska’s gold rush.
Denali National Park is not just North America’s highest point but also one of the world’s great mountains.
See it all on the Silversea cruise ship Silver Muse sailing next August. The all-inclusive seven-night cruise includes the pre-cruise trip to Denali National Park. Call Helloworld Travel Eatons Hill 3264 6222, Spring Hill 3832 0833 or Kenmore 3378 8555.
UNFORGETTABLE ALASKAN ADVENTURE UNFORGETTABLE ALASKAN ADVENTURE
EXCLUSIVE PACKAGE
Partially Escorted by a Helloworld Travel Manager
Departs Brisbane Sunday 26th August 2023
16 DAYS FROM $13,995*
*The tour price listed is per person and based on twin share. DENALI PRE CRUISE TOUR: Numbers are limited and this tour is available until sold out. Ask us about our limited time special single supplement rates.
INCLUDES: Return economy class airfares Brisbane/Anchorage – Vancouver/Brisbane (Silversea air programme) • Arrival transfer Anchorage airport • 1 night arrival accommodation Captain Cook Hotel, Anchorage or similar • 5 days/4 nights Denali National park touring (twin share) including transfer to the ship • 7 night Silver Muse Alaska cruise Seward to Vancouver including all meals, beverages, and selected shore excursions • Arrival transfer Vancouver port to hotel • 3 nights accommodation Vancouver – Hyatt Regency or similar • Vancouver touring – Grouse Mountain and Capilano Suspension Bridge Park Tour * Vancouver touring – Victoria and Butchart Gardens from Vancouver
