F RE E MAGAZ IN E E DIT ION 1 OCT OBE R 2013
RESPONSIBLE TRAVEL FOR A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
Cambodia The Kingdom of Wonder Family favourite Eco-campervanning
Win! A ‘GREEN’ HOLIDAY!
Man & Noosa nature Biosphere Conservation Volunteers Travel with a cause
NATIONAL PARKS | GREEN TRAVEL TIPS | INDIGENOUS CULTURE | ECO HOTELS
Two of life’s must do’s Whitehaven Beach & Hill Inlet
Cruise on out through the stunning Whitsunday Islands National Park and spend the day exploring one of the world’s most famous beaches. Pure white silica sand stretches out over 7 kilometres. A guided walk is included at the northern end of the beach to Hill Inlet where you can capture your own unbelievably beautiful scenic moments. Enjoy a picnic lunch at your leisure and a memorable day at one of the World’s best beaches.
The Great Barrier Reef CW4263
This is the world’s largest coral reef eco-system, with remarkable marine life and the perfect reef pontoon from which to explore. The Reefworld pontoon provides a great base for snorkelling and viewing an abundance of unique fish and colourful corals. Guests can enjoy a large sundeck, an underwater viewing chamber, marine expert presentation, semi-submersible and optional activities such as diving, massages and heli-flights. A delicious buffet lunch and snacks are all included.
This famous pair of iconic natural wonders are not to be missed. Fully inclusive day cruises to the Great Barrier Reef, Whitehaven Beach and other wonderful Whitsunday Islands depart daily from Airlie Beach in the Whitsundays. Receive a 10% discount when you book two different Cruise Whitsundays’ day cruises at the same time. For info & more wonderful Whitsunday day cruises telephone (07) 4946 4662 info@cruisewhitsundays.com cruisewhitsundays.com
Editor’s letter
Holidays that don’t cost the Earth..
Our Planet Travel magazine acknowledges and thanks our key partners. Their support for our magazine is greatly appreciated.
Welcome to our launch edition of Our Planet Travel!
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here is a wave of environmental consciousness sweeping the globe; everything from “green bags” (reusable shopping bags) and “food miles”, to “carbon offsets” and “hybrid” cars, are now common words and concepts. Our purchasing habits are changing, mostly for the better. Whether becoming more responsible in our purchases is a philosophical decision, or a more practical or financial one, the positive outcome is the same - it’s better for our environment. We all love to travel - but there is an unfortunate irony in travel; people journey far and wide to see natural wonders yet their environmental footprint can damage the very same site they have come to see. Ecotourism, or ecologically sustainable tourism, aims to provide travellers with experiences that don’t cost the earth. Eco-friendly or ‘green’ travel choices can include everything from taking an adventure tour run by an eco-certified operator, to staying in a 5-star hotel that is actively working to protect the environment. The benefits of responsible tourism are multi-fold: it helps protect our wild places and the survival of native flora and fauna, it supports local communities and cultures, and it helps combat climate change. These are the reasons why Our Planet Travel is so passionate about helping travellers find and select responsible tourism products – we hope you agree that we can all contribute to this
Campervan. 4WD. Car Rentals
positive change by considering our choices on our next holiday. It doesn’t mean we can’t go to our dream destination – it just means selecting the right products; and wherever possible minimising our carbon footprint. There are eco-friendly travel products all around the globe - to suit all budgets, needs, interests, and levels of fitness – you can enjoy travelling knowing you are also positively supporting the environment at the same time. Please join us in supporting the companies who are making a difference. We hope our magazine provides you with the inspiration and motivation to do this. A big thanks goes to our founding partner thl Australia; and key supporter Conservation Volunteers Australia.
Melanie Grevis-James EDITOR | PUBLISHER
Our Planet Travel magazine is proudly printed by Finsbury Green. Finsbury Green are certified to the ISO 14001 standard for environment systems. We have saved 981kg of damaging greenhouse emissions (CO2), compared to a non-green printer. By comparison the average Australian home generates 1,333kg of CO2 per month. We have used FSC® certified MIX 70% Sumo Offset Laser paper. OUR
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Contents
CONTRIBUTORS Bruce Foreman
EDITION 1 OCTOBER 2013 03 Editor’s letter and welcome 05 Through Aboriginal Eyes
Trained in Australia as an environmental scientist, Bruce was seduced by a chance to tour lead through China and Tibet. Thirteen years later he still lives in Asia, researching travel destinations, promoting environmental education, and writing for travel magazines. Bruce’s current favourite eco destination is the ‘Camino de Santiago’ trail in Spain.
Susan Woodward
09 George’s Future in the Whitsundays 11 Reader giveaway: books to win! 12 Eco Kids: family holiday favourites 13 Fraser Island, a Queensland must do!
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Man and Nature: the Noosa Biosphere
14 Western Australia’s magical Karijini 16 City Stays: hotels with a conscience 18 Dreamtime at Nitmiluk Gorge 22 Volunteer tourism: conservation projects in Australia
10 First of a Kind: eco-campsites on the Larapinta Trail
24 Pedal Power is the way to go... 25 Touring the Tablelands 26 A Ray of Hope: Ningaloo Marine Park 27 Making of a Man in Ethiopia 28 Annapurna Community Lodges 31 Coasting in a campervan Our Planet Travel magazine is a free magazine published by Our Planet Travel (Meglara P/L trading as). Copyright © 2013. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in part or in whole without prior written permission. While every effort is made to ensure all information in this magazine is accurate, no responsibility can be accepted by the Publisher for information supplied by organisations, businesses or individuals, including the copyright of supplied material, images, and typographical errors. Contact us: Our Planet Travel, PO Box 669, The Gap QLD 4061, Australia. Freecall: 1800 815 525 (within Australia). Facebook: www.facebook.com/ OurPlanetTravel Email: info@ourplanettravel. com.au Web: www.ourplanettravel.com.au
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21 Travel Photography Competition! Send us your best travel shots and win!
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Cambodia: the Kingdom of Wonder
Susan Woodward is a freelance journalist (B.A. University of Queensland) who writes passionately on travel and the environment. She has worked for a wide range of traditional and online media outlets for more than 20 years. Her skills have taken her to many exciting places around the world, including working as the content manager for the Melinda & Bill Gates Foundation. Favourite eco destination is free-camping on the beaches north of Broome, WA. You can follow Susan on her travel blog: campervandreaming.blogspot.com.au
Lina Preuss
Lina has been writing about holiday experiences since their family camping trips around Australia in the early 90s. Lina has an International Tourism Management and Journalism degree, and has worked for the United Nations World Tourism Organization in Madrid, Spain. Her favourite eco destination is Lake Bunyoni in Uganda.
Kim Wilkinson
Kim holds a dual degree in Journalism and Arts. She’s currently completing a Masters in Modern Middle Eastern Studies at Oxford University. She has travelled to 24 countries (so far). Her favourite eco destination is Cuba – due to its untouched landscapes and seascapes.
South Australia
Through Aboriginal Eyes
DARES HILL LOOKOUT ENGRAVING
Aboriginal Cultural Tours Authentic experiences, first hand stories and tours on demand: this is what Aboriginal Cultural Tours, located in South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula district, promises all its guests.
INNES NATIONAL PARK - ADJAHDURA / NARUNGGA LAND
WORDS: LINDA PREUSS
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he 100% Aboriginal-owned tour operator was last year inducted into the South Australian
Tourism Hall of Fame, and has won a host of other state and regional tourism awards for Aboriginal, heritage and cultural tourism. Owner and operator Quenten Agius, who built up the business following the advice of his uncle, says that the land has a lot to offer visitors and that much can be learnt from the stories of Australia’s oldest inhabitants. “Along with certain landmarks like the old quarry, prison, waterholes and beaches, we take our visitors into the community to hear stories of how life used to be,” Mr. Agius explains.
Aboriginal.” Aboriginal Cultural Tours is ROC Certified. ROC – or Respecting Our Culture – is an Ecotourism Australia initiative that underlines the authenticity of tourism businesses and recognises sustainable business practices as well as the upholding of cultural and environmental ethics. Aboriginal Cultural Tours offer individual and group tours ranging from half-day to multiple day tours, and provide participant pick-up from Adelaide, Yorke Peninsula and Port Victoria (depending on the tour).
FOR MORE For more Aboriginal Cultural Tours info, and Aboriginal tourism: www.adjahdura.com.au www.diversetravel.com.au www.tourism.australia.com/aboriginal
By encouraging visitors to look at the landscape through Aboriginal eyes, Aboriginal Cultural Tours gives travellers a new perspective not only on their surroundings but also on the rich cultural history of Australia. For the guides of Aboriginal Cultural Tours, many of them members of Mr Agius’ family and community, it is about taking people on a journey, not just physically but spiritually. “Visitors who come on our tours often comment on how much they appreciated having an authentic experience,” Mr Agius notes. “They like the fact that all of our guides are
QUENTEN AGIUS
IMAGES COURTESY OF ABORIGINAL CULTURAL TOURS OUR
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Noosa Biosphere
Man and
Nature
NOOSA BIOSPHERE
WORDS: LINA PREUSS
150,000 hectares of beautiful, protected nature, located in the Noosa region on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast: The Noosa Biosphere stretches from Kin Kin in the north to Peregian Beach in the south and has just celebrated its sixth anniversary as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
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he Biosphere, the first one in Queensland, was afforded this internationally recognised title in 2007 for its dedication to promoting a harmonious relationship between people and the environment through education, conservation and sustainable activities. According to Carolyn Beaton from Noosa Biosphere Ltd, the affording of biosphere status to Noosa recognises our community’s aspirations for a sustainable future; working together to build healthy people and a healthy place underpinned by research and shared learning.
© Andrew Millner
“The biosphere is strongly focused on ensuring that our natural environment
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is valued, conserved and enhanced,” she explains. Looking after this unique environment is a passion shared by many local businesses and community groups in the region, including some of Noosa’s most prominent and successful tourism operators. These partner organisations, 27 in total currently, work closely with Noosa Biosphere Ltd and embrace the values and principles of the biosphere, participate in its activities, exhibit good stewardship of the environment, promote the values of the biosphere reserve to their staff and customers and work to reduce their carbon footprint and impact on the environment. Endorsed Noosa Biosphere key tourism partners include Sheraton Noosa Resort, Kanu Kapers, Kayak Noosa, Noosa Ferry Cruise Company, Noosa Museum, Outrigger Little Hastings St Resort, Eumundi Markets, and Tourism Noosa.
© Tourism Noosa
© Paul Smith Images
More than 626 vertebrate fauna and thirteen major types of vegetation can be found in the Noosa Biosphere Reserve, including rainforests, heath lands, eucalyptus forests, melaleuca wetlands, sand dunes and mangroves. As well as this, nearly twenty-five per cent of Queensland’s mangrove plant species can be found here.
biosphere status to Noosa recognises our community’s aspirations for a sustainable future The annual Noosa Biosphere Festival – held in September each year, is a means for the community and visitors to celebrate Noosa having been afforded international Biosphere Reserve status by UNESCO. Visitor information is available at the Hastings Street and Noosa Marina Visitor Information Centres as well as at Parkyn Hut, Tewantin, or from the Noosa Biosphere website.
FOR MORE www.noosabiosphere.org.au or www.visitnoosa.com.au
Whitsundays
George’ ’s future is in safe
Hands Cruise Whitsundays is a leading local Advanced Eco-Certified operator with a strong environmental ethic, dedicated to the care and the protection of the reef for all to enjoy.
GROUPER GEORGE
Airlie Beach, the gateway to the Whitsundays, is one of Australia’s top destinations for fun in the sun… it’s also a region that’s taken an extra step to help protect the marine environment for future generations.
T Images courtesy of Cruise Whitsundays ©
he Whitsundays region has long been popular to visitors of all descriptions, all seeking the sun, fun, and water and island activities that have made the region famous. In more recent times, the region has established itself as a hot-spot for marine eco operators. Airlie Beach-based operators with eco accreditation include Air Whitsunday, Cruise Whitsundays, Ocean Rafting, Tall Ship Adventures, Barefoot Cruises, Charter Yachts Australia, Coral Sea Charter Company, Cruise Indigo, Fantasea Adventure Cruises, Maxi Action, Sea Kayaking Whitsundays, and more.
Meet George Formed millions of years ago, the colourful Great Barrier Reef continues to grow and flourish just off the coast from the Whitsundays. Hundreds of different types of fish and hard and
soft coral thrive at Hardy Reef, where Cruise Whitsundays Reefworld pontoon is located. One of the more interesting reef creatures to call Reefworld ‘home’ is the Queensland Grouper. They are the largest bony fish found on coral reefs anywhere in the world and can reach a total length of up to 3 metres and an estimated weight of 400 kilograms! The largest Grouper found under Reefworld is known as ‘George’. When he was last measured, George was just over 3 metres in length. No one knows exactly how old George is, but he has been known on Hardy Reef for at least 30 years. Queensland Groupers are ambush predators, with a feeding strategy best described as ‘lurk & lunge’. If you’re lucky, you may see one feeding at Hardy Reef – but don’t worry, they prefer fish, rays, turtles and crayfish!
“Caring for the reef and its marine life are the most important aspects of our operation”, says Franki Waterhouse, group marketing manager of MTM, the owner of Cruise Whitsundays.
“Caring for the reef and its marine life are the most important aspects of our operation” The company undertakes a range to best-practice environmental initiatives including a reef protection program, a ‘no touching’ policy, biodegradable cleaning agents, litter cleanup and waste reduction, oil-spill control, scientific research, interpretation programs, staff training, innovative technology, and compliance and environmental management. To help support George’s future, and all the other wonderful reef inhabitants, book a tour and visit Reefworld with Cruise Whitsundays.
FOR MORE www.cruisewhitsundays.com OUR
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The Red Centre provided the basis for negotiation of an exclusive sub-lease, a cooperative arrangement that will benefit all parties.
Key environmentally-friendly features include: custom water-free composting toilets that ensure that no human waste enters the environment; solar LED lighting systems throughout including the pathways, toilets, showers, kitchen, lounge and dining; new hybrid grey water treatment system with subsurface absorption and evaporation beds that ensure that washing water does not affect the environment; a wood-fired donkey style water heater that allows for 2-3 minutes of hot showers. Low-water washing systems in the bathroom and kitchen are very important in the desert where all water is brought in by tanker. The semi-permanent nature of the structures allows the land to recover during the off-season, maintaining the idyllic natural setting of these wilderness sites. The building materials,
THE MAIN CANOPY OF THE LARAPINTA CAMPSITE SHELTERS THE COMFORTABLE LOUNGE AND DINING AREAS.
© Chris Buykx
Eco-campsites on iconic Larapinta Trail
Earlier this year, adventure travel company and responsible travel operator, World Expeditions, launched architect-designed, semipermanent campsites on the remote Larapinta Trail.
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he eco-campsites provide maximum levels of comfort to hikers whilst minimising the impact on the environment. This unique initiative further cements World Expeditions position as a leader in responsible tourism practices. The Larapinta Trail is one of the greatest desert treks on earth, and one of Australia’s most famous walking
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experiences. Following the spine of the West MacDonnell range, the trail winds along high exposed ridgelines and deep sheltered gorges to discover one of the world’s most evocative and ancient landscapes. World Expeditions’ long-standing relationship with the Aboriginal Traditional Owners and Northern Territory National Parks & Wildlife
WORLD EXPEDITIONS LARAPINTA TRAIL GUIDES CHRIS HEAPHY AND WINSTON GREEN
© Mark Bennic
First of a Kind LARAPINTA ECO CAMPSITE
Images courtesy of World Expeditions
The new campsites, designed by Sydney-based Neeson Murcutt Architects, are a world-first, both in terms of their capacity to provide comfortable shelter on both warm days and cool nights, and to incorporate ecofriendly features.
colours and the overall style of the new structures were carefully chosen to blend in with the surrounding environment aesthetically. World Expeditions is the only company in Australia to have the full endorsement of The Wilderness Society. The Larapinta Trail treks are also eco-accredited by Ecotourism Australia. For Larapinta Trail guests, the new eco campsites are a real bonus – who doesn’t want more comfort when camping? And to feel good about the minimal impact on the local environment at the same time? Larapinta Trail treks offered by World Expeditions range from 3-14 days; and vary in price. The best time to consider a trek is in the cooler months, from April to October. Mid-winter in the desert is very cold at night.
FOR MORE www.worldexpeditions.com
READER’S GIVEAWAY! On a different kind of trail...
If this book doesn’t get you booking your next adventure straight away nothing will... Tim Cope’s new book On the Trail of Genghis Khan is an amazing read. Follow Tim (and his faithful companion – Tigon) on his epic solo journey on horseback through the land of the Nomads. Tim is an award-winning adventurer, author and film-maker, with a passion for the nomadic history and culture of Russia and Central Asia. Published by Bloomsbury; RRP $29.99.
WIN A BOOK:
Our Planet Travel is giving away copies of Tim’s book – courtesy of World Expeditions!
HOW TO ENTER:
Go to COMPETITIONS page on www.OurPlanetTravel.com.au Last date to enter 31 March 2014.
WIN a Mongolia Trek with World Expeditions! To win an unforgettable trek with Tim Cope in Western Mongolia visit World Expedition’s website. Prize value $6090. Note: entries close 31 October 2013. www.worldexpeditions.com
A SCHOOL IN VIETNAM’S REMOTE HILL TRIBE AREA OF MAI CHAU IS IN DISREPAIR ... YOU CAN HELP!
To learn more about our range of Volunteer holidays in Vietnam, Nepal, Tanzania, Peru & Australia visit >>>>
A DIVISION OF WORLD EXPEDITIONS
communityprojecttravel.com OUR
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Family Fun
Eco Kids
BARKALA FARM OLD SCHOOL HOUSE
days. The advanced eco-accredited Zoofari Lodge, is located right in the heart of the zoo. Behind the scenes tours of the zoo are included in the overnight rates, as well as meals.
Mt Barney Lodge VIA RATHDOWNEY, QUEENSLAND
BUSHWALKING AT MT BARNEY NATIONAL PARK
Kids thrive on adventure, new sights, and new friends – including the furry kind. Combine this with educational eco activities and you’ve got the perfect family holiday sorted!
A couple of our favourite family and eco-friendly holiday spots in Australia:
Taronga Western Plains Zoo & Zoofari Lodge DUBBO, NEW SOUTH WALES Base yourself in Dubbo for 2 days to make the most of your visit to Taronga Western Plains Zoo. Arrive at the zoo early to see as many animals as possible in the morning (animal viewing is best in the morning). Take a picnic with you and hire bicycles. There is a regular program of animal feeding times, activities and talks. The zoo entry ticket is valid for 2-consecutive
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Located in the spectacular Scenic Rim area, Mt Barney Lodge is just a 1.5 hour drive from Brisbane, and is nestled right next to the National Park. A range of very affordable accommodation is offered from campsites, to self-catering style rustic cabins and homesteads – plenty of room for small and large families. What makes Mt Barney Lodge so special though is the family-friendly environment, and welcoming hosts Ines and Tracey Larkin. The property is Advanced Eco Certified, and Ines and Tracey have gone to tremendous efforts in offering educational and fun activities for children – during the school holidays and selected weekends, a children’s program includes beginner rock climbing, night time adventures with wildlife spotting, ‘wild pizza’, and a CREATE activities program.
GREAT ECO HOLIDAY IDEAS FOR CHILDREN: • Camping in National Parks – especially those near the beach • Kingfisher Bay Resort on Fraser Island, Queensland • Phillip Island Nature Parks – and the Penguin Parade, Victoria • Healesville Sanctuary, Victoria • Farmstays (with eco accreditation or features) • Alice Springs Desert Park, Northern Territory • Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures, Queensland • Taronga Zoo, Sydney, New South Wales For more holiday ideas, please ask Our Planet Travel; we’re always happy to offer suggestions: info@ourplanettravel.com.au largest privately-owned solar energy system in Australia (120 panels). The family-run farm operates on organic growing principles. Home also to the famous Pilliga Pottery, children can try pottery, roam the gardens, swim in the pool, jump on the trampoline, and watch and pat the farm animals. Horse riding is also available. The ‘Old School House’ cottage (all made by hand!) is the favourite for families – and ours too!
WORDS & IMAGES: MELANIE GREVIS-JAMES
Barkala Farm and Pilliga Pottery VIA COONABARABRAN, NEW SOUTH WALES Barkala is a truly unique farmstay, located 34km north of Coonabarabran in the Pilliga Forest area. The accommodation is very family-friendly, with self-catering options available. The cafe offers delicious home-made meals, and the best pizzas ever! The property is fully self-sufficient, running off the
TARONGA WESTERN PLAINS ZOO
FOR MORE www.taronga.org.au/tarongawestern-plains-zoo www.mtbarneylodge.com.au www.barkalafarm.com.au
You haven’t seen Queensland till you’ve seen
Fraser
It’s true… Fraser Island is one of the iconic attractions of Queensland – a definite “must do” when visiting the Sunshine State.
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ust a short 50-minute ferry ride from Hervey Bay takes you into an official stress-free holiday
zone, complete with sweeping golden beaches, aquatic adventures and unspoiled wilderness. Fraser Island is an ecological masterpiece of giant sand dunes, rainforests, freshwater streams and lakes and an exceptional range of unique flora and fauna.
KINGFISHER BAY RESORT RANGER WITH CHILD If you don’t have a 4WD vehicle to explore the island you can hire a four-wheel drive from Hervey Bay or Kingfisher Bay Resort (on Fraser Island’s western side) and take to the sand tracks on your own voyage of discovery. Or, if you fancy a casual resort atmosphere, Eurong Beach Resort is just a hop, skip and a jump away from gorgeous 75-Mile Beach. For those who want to sit back and have it all done for them, Fraser Explorer Tours has an excellent range of daily eco-accredited four-wheel-drive tours to choose from, including day tours from Hervey Bay or Rainbow Beach, and a superb two-day adventure staying on Fraser Island’s eastern side.
© Images courtesy of Kingfisher Bay Resort
Fraser Island
ELI CREEK TOUR But you don’t need to have wheels to enjoy the world’s largest sand island. Kingfisher Bay Resort is a good starting point to immerse yourself in this World Heritage wilderness and offers Rangerguided eco walks and talks, fishing from the jetty and a great beach to sun yourself. The Junior Eco Rangers program is a must-do for families – rated one of the best kid’s clubs in Australia.
FOR MORE www.1800fraser.com
Enjoy a Day Away
Fraser Explorer Tours
Dinner Cruise
The popular Day Away package gives you the chance to immerse yourself in pristine wilderness without a 4WD.
Join us for a one or two day adventure to discover Fraser’s fabulous attractions and pristine sites like Lake McKenzie.
You’ll enjoy lunch and morning or afternoon tea as well as a guided walk, canoe paddle and fishing clinic.
Tours depart Hervey Bay and Rainbow Beach daily and are all inclusive. Overnight tours include all meals and stay at Eurong Beach Resort.
Make the most of those balmy subtropical nights with a Dinner Cruise to beautiful Fraser Island dining at our Sand Bar bistro or Seabelle Restaurant – it’s one of those must-do experiences and includes return ferry transfers from River Heads.
$65* per Adult $35* per Child $165* per Family
from $160* per Adult from $105* per Child $495* per Family
Kingfisher Bay Resort Group
*Conditions apply. Subject to availability. Family rate is for 2 adults and 2 children.
from $49* per Adult $20* per Child
KBRV1076
EXPLORE FRASER ISLAND YOUR WAY!
1800 FRASER (1800 372 737) OUR
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Western Australia
Magical Karijini WORDS: SUSAN WOODWARD IMAGES: MK ROCKWELL
Karijini National Park is a place you can feel before it comes into view. On the road east from Port Hedland, soon after filling up at the Munjina Roadhouse, the terrain rises sharply to reveal cliffs of rich red dirt and spinifex in mounds of luminescent green.
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he wind quickens, the sky and cumulous clouds open up. Still 40 kilometres from the park proper, its spirit begins to move through the approaching visitor.
OURPLANETTRAVEL.COM.AU
Images © MK Rockwell
Several of these dirt roads spin off Karijini Drive, which runs eastwest through the park. A 4WD is recommended for accessing Weano,
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Karijini’s location is one of the most attractive things about the park. Although remote, if you’re touring north-western Australia you’re bound to hit the Broome and Exmouth/Ningaloo regions. Karijini is smack in the middle and is a welcome change of scene from these beautiful but sandy and windy coastal destinations. My pick: the enchanting and challenging Hancock Gorge. Getting down and through this narrow canyon
HANCOCK GORGE
Entering Karijini, you’ll discover a landscape dotted with hidden gorges. Unlike those in some of Australia’s better-known national parks, Karijini’s chasms are marvellously different from one another and reachable by short walks — albeit after long drives on pretty tough but doable corrugated roads.
DALES GORGE
Red, Joffres, and other gorges in the park’s north. However, the way into the immensely popular Dales Gorge, at the park’s eastern end, is all bitumen. After viewing its cascades, and descending steeply to traipse three kilometres along terraced edges to the inviting cool of Circular Pool, I realised Dales’ traits accounted for its popularity more than its relative accessibility.
FORTESCUE FALLS IN DALES GORGE requires good fitness and some challenge, including descent and ascent by ladder, swimming, and rock climbing. You might even pick up a new skill — spider walking. And there’s a little risk: Get out quickly if rain threatens. (Seriously. You don’t want to get stuck in a narrow gorge during a flash flood!) Make sure you stop by the visitor centre near Karijini’s eastern entrance. It’s run by friendly staff and loaded with great interpretive displays about local wildlife and the local Banyjima Indigenous culture.
Karijini Basics
• You’ll pay $11 per car to enter Karijini National Park • Rustic, inexpensive camping is available adjacent to Dales Gorge • You can also stay deeper in the park at the Indigenous-owned Karijini Eco Retreat, considered a model for sustainable tourism • The park also contains Western Australia’s three highest peaks. There’s a nine-kilometre return trail up one of them — Mt Bruce. • The Banyjima name for the Hamersley Range is Karijini • The national park is located in the Hamersley Range / Pilbara Region approx 1000km north of the capital city Perth, in Western Australia.
FOR MORE http://parks.dpaw.wa.gov.au/park/karijini
KARIJINI ECO RETREAT - LUXURY SET IN THE OUTBACK
GIVE YOUR HIKING BOOTS A REST Nestled within Karijini National Park you’ll find the Karijini Eco Retreat, a welcome and refreshing place to relax and wash off the dust. The beautifully appointed and designed eco retreat compliments the surroundings of the national park perfectly. The retreat is environmentallyfriendly, Advanced Eco Certified, and offers guests an authentic outback experience. The retreat’s owners, the Gumala Aboriginal Corporation, aim to act as a leader in sustainable tourism principles and operate in perfect harmony with the environment.
KARIJINI ECO RETREAT RESTAURANT
An essential part of the long-term commitment of the Gumala to bring socioeconomic benefits to the region, whilst acknowledging the wider tourism industry benefits. Karijini Eco Retreat is located just 35km (along unsealed road) from the Karijini Visitors Centre in the Pilbara region of Western Australia. AWD/4WD vehicles are recommended to access the property. Accommodation is in Deluxe Eco Tents or campsite facilities; ranging in price from $35-196 per night.
FOR MORE
www.karijiniecoretreat.com.au OUR
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Hotels
THE ALTO ON BURKE EXTERIOR vertical garden will be edible,” explains Gary. “That way we can use the produce in the hotel’s restaurant kitchen.” So why this focus on sustainability?
ROOFTOP BEE HIVES - ALTO HOTEL
City Stays WORDS: LINA PREUSS
Hotels with a Conscience
Eco hotels are available right on your doorstep in the city – here we show off a couple of excellent role models. More travellers are seeking hotels with eco credentials every day...
The Alto Hotel on Burke: Innovation and Foresight LOCATION: MELBOURNE CBD
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oing business sustainably should be the norm by now, believes Gary Stickland, General Manager of Alto Hotel on Burke, Melbourne’s multi award-winning and completely carbon neutral boutique four star hotel. Alto Hotel on Burke, conveniently located in the centre of Melbourne, prides itself on being one of the city’s most resource-smart, eco-friendly hotels, and its focus on sustainability has seen it enter the Victorian Tourism Awards Hall of Fame for winning three consecutive Sustainable Tourism Awards in 2009, 2010 and 2011. The hotel
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also won the Conde Naste Traveller World Savers Award for Environmental Protection in 2010, but Manager Gary Stickland says there is always room for improvement. “ We have replaced all guest televisions with new, high definition LED TVs,” he notes. “They provide a great guest experience while lowering the hotel’s energy consumption.” The Alto Hotel is also committed to carbon auditing and accreditation schemes through EarthCheck and the Carbon Reduction Institute, plants trees in partnership with Green Fleet and has plenty of plans for the near future, including installing a vertical garden in the hotel foyer. “ We’re hoping that a percentage of the
“The hotel’s previous owners were very forward-thinking,” says Gary. “ They considered what business would look like in the future and determined that being sustainable would either be required by law or demanded by consumers.” And consumer conscience is increasing: 48% of guests at the Alto Hotel knew about the hotel’s environmental program before booking, and almost half of all guests take it into consideration in choosing the Alto. 78% of guests say they are more inclined to return because of the hotel’s environmental policy.
78% of guests say they are more inclined to return because of the hotel’s environmental policy. For the Alto, it is a win-win situation: a great guest experience is coupled with a better treatment of the planet and an increased awareness of the importance of sustainability among consumers. Perhaps the Alto’s motto – “Sit Hospes Rex” or The Guest be King says it all: the guests of today, as well as the guests of future generations, will be treated like kings at the Alto.
FOR MORE www.altohotel.com.au
BUSINESS TRAVELLERS TIP
EMPORIUM HOTEL
Emporium Hotel: Luxury without Compromise LOCATION: FORTITUDE VALLEY, BRISBANE
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he Emporium Hotel in Brisbane, arguably one of the state capital’s sexiest boutique hotels, has just achieved Silver Certification with EarthCheck, an internationally recognised environmental sustainability certification program, which holistically assesses businesses to assess their level of environmental and social sustainability. The Emporium Hotel, situated in the heart of Brisbane and boasting an eclectic fusion of antique and modern décor styles, has proven its continued dedication not only in providing a first-class experience for guests, but also caring for the environment. Reducing freshwater usage and wastewater generation, improving its energy efficiency, and increasing the percentage of staff who live within a 20km radius of the hotel, are some of the actions undertaken. The hotel has also implemented Sustainable Work Practices, including colour-coded recycling, and sending all waste to the Ti Tree Bio Energy Plant,
which converts their waste into energy. “These are all things we can do behind the scenes to ensure our guests can enjoy their luxury stay”, advises Angela Loucaides, The Emporium’s marketing manager. “The hotel recognises that our activities have an effect on the environment at local and global levels.” “We have recently introduced bees on our roof top - to help ‘green’ downtown Brisbane. Our chefs will use the honey in the hotel’s cooking; and we will sell jars of honey. We also have a passionate Green Team who meet bimonthly to review new ideas and ensure we are refining sustainable practices,” says Angela. Since achieving bronze EarthCheck certification in 2010, the hotel has continued to improve its performance indicators, accomplishing above best practice levels in a number of areas, and the hotel continues to strive toward minimizing its environmental footprint, and working towards best practices in sustainability for luxury hotels.
FOR MORE www.emporiumhotel.com.au
Images © Alto Hotel and Emporium Hotel
A couple of the larger hotel chains are making a conscious effort at implementing substantial sustainable and responsible practices and features in their hotels, these include in Australia: IHG’s ‘Green Engage Hotels’, and Shangri-La Hotels & Resorts. Both of these chains have eco accreditation programs in place.
CORN CARD (GREEN TIPS) - ALTO HOTEL
CHOOSING A ‘GREEN’ TRAVEL BUSINESS Visit Our Planet Travel’s searchable website directory: www.OurPlanetTravel.com.au Our website contains over 500 businesses in Australia so far; and we’re adding to it every day. International destinations are planned for 2014. All the suggested businesses listed on our website are genuinely sustainable and responsible. Our Planet Travel endorses reputable eco travel accreditation programs. There are also plenty of sustainable/ eco travel experiences that are not accredited. All accredited and nonaccredited businesses must adhere to Our Planet Travel’s participation criteria.
TIP:
Check if the businesses you are going to book or visit are eco accredited by a reputable organisation, if they aren’t (or you can’t find any details about their sustainability practices), ask them what eco/sustainable practices they have in place. If they can’t answer the question adequately – book elsewhere!
FOR MORE:
www.OurPlanetTravel.com.au
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Northern Territory
Floating on the Breeze of Dreamtime
WORDS: SUSAN WOODWARD IMAGES: MK ROCKWELL
Some 35 of us are boarding a morning boat tour of Nitmiluk Gorge and, judging by the depth of knowledge of our skipper and guide, three hours will only be enough time to absorb a fraction of everything he has to teach about this special place.
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hat doesn’t stop Tom Kilpatrick from trying, however. In the first 30 minutes he positively downloads us with information, an impressive conjunction of Nitmiluk history, politics, rock art, wildlife, bush tucker, river flows and Dreamtime stories. “So today, folks, you’re travelling on the blue-winged Kookaburra River through cicada country,” Tom begins, as he explains the Jawoyn people’s interpretation of the Katherine River and the massive cut it has carved into the Earth over millennia. A little further upriver, we learn about the seasonal appearance of native flowers and seed pods and the way they coincide with the laying and hatching of turtle and crocodile eggs. Then we pass our first of several freshwater crocodiles, basking in the
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sun on a small beach. Cameras start clicking. After 15 minutes, a section of sheer sandstone rises from the water on our port side. Five minutes more and we reach an even more spectacular series of rocky walls, the true scale of which is only revealed by the diminutiveness of several canary yellow canoes meandering along its base. This is the kind of stuff that has made Nitmiluk Gorge — previously known as Katherine Gorge — an iconic Australian must-see for decades. Conveniently located just 30 kilometres outside the Northern Territory town of Katherine, Nitmiluk is actually a system of 13 gorges. Several can be reached by day hikes. By most accounts, however, a boat trip with Jawoyn-owned Nitmiluk Tours provides the best experience.
NITMILUK TOURS
NITMILUK GORGE WITH KAYAKS
Images © MK Rockwell 2013
JAWOYN ROCK ART
NITMILUK GORGE
It was not always the case that a visit to Nitmiluk would be filled with the cultural and environmental content offered today. In fact, it is only by a long and hard-fought land claim that the 600 or so remaining Jawoyn
“So what they had to literally do was grab the government officials by the hand, take them out into the country, show them their art sites, sacred grounds, burial grounds, and also their knowledge and usage of the land,” he
traditional owners finally regained control over the gorge, which they and their forefathers have inhabited for thousands of years.
said. “Then the government had no choice but to recognise that they were the traditional land owners. They finally got their land back in 1989, when they also sought the original name.”
Back on the tour, Tom tells us that the Jawoyn’s first claim in 1978 was rejected.
Now the Jawoyn lease the gorge back to the Northern Territory Government
Jabiru
Nitmiluk
Kakadu N.P.
Australia’s Timeless North – Northern Territory
Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge is comprised of not one but thirteen immense gorges that stretch for kilometers. Over the millennia, the Katherine River has carved this ancient waterway into the landscape. The Jawoyn people, however, believe that the Gorge system was created by Bula who came from saltwater country to the north. With his two wives, the Ngalienjilenji, he hunted across the land and in doing so transformed the landscape through his actions. The gorge is best experienced from the air and water with some of our cruises and air tours taking you to secluded and remote waterfalls. A trip to the Top End is never complete without experiencing all that ‘Nitmiluk’ has to offer. Adventure • Helicopter flights • Gorge Cruises • Cultural Tours • Canoe Hire
Accomodation • Chalets • Nitmiluk NP Campground • Tent Village • Poolside Cafe’
Find out about our tours and accommodation at www.nitmiluktours.com.au or call us on 1300 146 743 www.nitmiluktours.com.au
free wi-fi for guests OUR
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and the two co-manage it as Nitmiluk National Park.
CICADA LODGE
Tom docks the boat at the end of the first gorge. We exit and view several rock paintings by Jawoyn ancestors. After a short walk, we board another boat that is waiting to take us up the second gorge.
We enter the third gorge as two helicopters carrying tourists snake up the river above us. Our boat angle shifts, too, so that the wind picks up and mercifully tempers the sting of the ever-hot Australian sun. Ripples appear on the river’s surface. After a snack and swim at the natural weir between gorges three and two, we continue downriver to spot more plants and wildlife. Tom is less talkative, allowing each of us to enjoy our own experience. Nitmiluk Gorge attracts up to 800 people a day, but the gorge’s immensity and the staggered nature of its popular boat tours ensure that each visitor can experience peace, even aloneness. That’s the whole point, according to
JAWOYN ROCK ART
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CICADA LODGE
FOOTSTEPS CULTURAL TOURS
Cicada Lodge is a joint venture between the Jawoyn people and IBA (Indigenous Business Australia) – a 100% Indigenous-owned business. The property is located within Nitmiluk National Park and on Indigenous land. The luxury eco lodge is nestled in the natural bush high above the ancient waterways of the Katherine River. All 18 rooms in the lodge feature private balconies and Indigenous artwork from local artists. Guests can have the unique experience of viewing rare rock art sites and learning about the local Jawoyn culture first-hand. The ‘Footsteps’ Cultural Tour is offered exclusively to in-house guests. Cicada Lodge is located 300km south of Darwin and 32km from Katherine. The bed and breakfast package starts from $322.50 per person, per night, based on twin share.
FOR MORE:
www.cicadalodge.com.au traditional owner Jane Runyu Fordimail, chairperson of Nitmiluk Tours. “We want people to understand the way we used to live and to share that culture and share that knowledge,” Jane tells me after the boat tour. “There’s bush tucker out there, there’s medicines out there, and we just want to show people the basics of how we survived all those years.” I ask her what it was like when the Jawoyn won back their land in 1989. She is lost in the emotion of the memory and describes the moment as “deadly, incredible”. She only finds more words when I ask what the Jawoyn are trying to give visitors through their generous sharing of a sense of place.
“I’d like for them to come and feel the experience,” says Jane. “When you get on the boat, all you’re doing is wafting in the breeze, floating on the breeze. Just close your eyes when you’re down the river; it’s so relaxing.” Nitmiluk Tours operate tours, canoeing trips and helicopter flights daily; with frequency and departure times dependant on the season and river conditions. A variety of accommodation options are also available; including camping and caravan sites.
FOR MORE www.nitmiluktours.com.au
Images © Cicada Lodge
Soon, the water depth plummets from about 7 metres to 40. We’ve reached Katherine Canyon, where vertical streaks of red iron oxide and black magnesium oxide stain the high sandstone columns. The Jawoyn will not fish, swim, or drink at this spot, Tom says, for fear of disturbing Bolung, the rainbow serpent spirit that created Nitmiluk Gorge. He nudges the boat close to land as we pass through the narrowing canyon, and I watch a mesmerizing dance of water refracting on rocky facets.
Photo Competition
Win! A ‘GREEN’ HOLIDAY!
Our Planet Travel photo competition prizes include: 1st Prize: 7-day rental vehicle from Britz Campervans 2nd Prize: $500 travel voucher for a Naturewise holiday
Images courtesy of Britz, Sian Price-White, and Conservation Volunteers
So, you think you can take a great travel shot? We’d love to see your travel photos – send them in to us and you could win! See below for further details on how to enter.
Thanks to our sponsors Britz Campervans and Conservation Volunteers for the great prizes!
Readers’ competition details: • Send us a copy (by email) of your best travel photos from your holiday, and you could win 7 days FREE rental vehicle from Britz Campervans; or a $500 voucher from Conservation Volunteers for a Naturewise holiday of your choice. • Photos must be of scenery, nature or animals; or a ‘green’ travel destination or product. • By entering the competition, you also receive the opportunity to have your photo included in the next edition of Our Planet Travel magazine – and the winning photo could even be on the next cover! • Images must be sent via email and format must be: high resolution, print quality jpg; minimum 300dpi; maximum file size 8mb. • Please include your full name (first name and surname); email
address and a contact telephone number; and details about the photo and where the photo was taken (must be a destination in Australia or New Zealand). Please caption all photos sent. • The maximum number of images to send is five (5) per person. • Date for entries closes on 28 Febuary 2014. Winners will be notified by email after 28 Febuary 2014. • By entering the competition you are agreeing that Our Planet Travel magazine can reproduce your image/s on our website, or in the magazine, and for public relations activities without incurring any copyright infringements. All images entering the competition must be your own photo. All photos published will be credited to the photographer.
Send images to: info@ourplanettravel.com.au Competition closes on 28 February 2014. Please remember to include all your contact details and where the photos were taken. OUR
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Volunteer Tourism: Give a Little Back
ECO BEACH TURTLE
There is increasing recognition that travellers want to make a positive impact on the unique places they visit. From the wild Kimberley region and the outback, to the beaches and even in the cities and suburbs, volunteer opportunities abound, offering travellers handson, and unforgettable, travel experiences. ECO BEACH TURTLE MONITORING
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olunteering is a popular option for many travellers because it gives them authentic and unique travel experiences. Volunteers can see native wildlife up close, and travel to regions that are more remote, and thus more pristine, than those on the usual ‘tourist’ trail. Volunteers also often get a better understanding of local communities and cultures because volunteer programs often involve interaction with local people. Volunteering also has an indisputable ‘feel good’ factor, and it’s very addictive! “Voluntourism is one of the fastest growing travel segments around the world, and we are pleased to be considered a leader in the industry,” said Joanne Davies, manager Ecotourism Division of Conservation Volunteers Australia. “Conservation Volunteers embraces the principles of responsible travel combining conservation with exploration. Our aim is to connect visitors with Australia’s beautiful and unique natural areas, while helping to ensure their future preservation.”
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“Our Naturewise experiences offer the opportunity to visit unique destinations, get close to nature and explore the great outdoors, whilst contributing to important conservation efforts,” she said. There are volunteer travel options for all price ranges, from budget, to high end. Volunteering experiences also
vary in duration, from one day to a week or more. Conservation Volunteers Australia is not the only organisation offering tours of this nature, but they are certainly a clear leader, as well as a great role model for the industry.
CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS AUSTRALIA Conservation Volunteers Australia is Australasia’s largest not-for profit practical conservation organisation with offices throughout Australia and New Zealand. For over thirty years the organisation has provided a wide range of experiences for people to assist with important conservation activities and a way to connect with the environment. Naturewise offers eco-accredited ‘voluntours’ where travellers can contribute to research-focussed projects as part of a holiday experience. All their programs support conservation and research across Australia.
FOR MORE:
www.naturewise.com.au www.conservationvolunteers.com.au
Images courtesy of Conservation Volunteers Australia
Why Volunteer?
Naturewise in Australia
MONTAGUE ISLAND PENGUIN MONITORING
Naturewise offers a growing range of programs across Australia, and shortly in New Zealand as well. Here’s a selection of volunteer tours currently available in Australia. TRACKING TURTLES AT ECO BEACH is a rewarding and valuable experience. Flatback are the only sea turtle species endemic to Australian waters, but much remains unknown about them. Early indications show that the flatback is likely to be under threat and its conservation should be a priority. Conservation Volunteers has been conducting sea turtle monitoring since 2009 at Eco Beach, Western Australia. Under the guidance of experienced research assistants, volunteers patrol the beach at night seeking nesting females which are tagged, measured and sampled for DNA analysis. Nest hatching success and climate change impacts are also studied which make this project part of a long-term scientific monitoring program that will help determine if the flatback turtle species is under threat. 6-day packages depart Broome weekly during November and December. Prices from $1,145 per person; and include accommodation at Eco Beach Resort. MONTAGUE ISLAND, on the south coast of NSW, 9km offshore from the coastal township of Narooma, is home to the third largest colony of little penguins in the world, numbering approximately 6000 pairs. The island is also a migratory path for the east Australian population of humpback whales as they migrate in spring southwards to Antarctica. During peak breeding season
(September - March), you can join a Naturewise Conservation Holiday and spend a few nights in the beautifully restored lighthouse keepers’ quarters, and help Rangers with little penguin surveys. But it’s not all hard work with time to explore the islands heritage, climb the spiral stairs of an operating lighthouse and enjoy this spectacular nature reserve. 2-night packages depart Narooma weekly and prices start from $595 per person. LITTLE DESERT WILDLIFE DISCOVERY takes place in Western Victoria’s Little Desert region which holds some of the last remaining pockets of untouched Mallee, and provides critical habitat for a range of species including the endangered Malleefowl and RedTail Black Cockatoo. This new Naturewise experience provides visitors with the opportunity to participate in seasonal bird and wildflower monitoring and undertake important research through remote camera monitoring. There is also the opportunity to learn about the endangered Malleefowl recovery program and encounter a range of native wildlife species held at the
Little Desert Sanctuary for research purposes including Sugar Gliders, Brush-tailed Bettongs and Bushstone Curlews. WOMBAT CONSERVATION in South Australia is aimed at helping to protect the long term survival of the Southern Hairy-nosed wombat. Brookfield Conservation Park is one of the last protected areas for the Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat (Lasiorhinus latifrons). The Conservation Park is rich in wildlife, including home to the Southern Hairy-nosed Wombat, Fat-tailed Dunnart, Ring Tailed Pygmy Possum, Red & Western Grey Kangaroos and Emus. Volunteers can now work alongside specialist staff and researchers to support a range of cutting edge seasonal research activities including wombat warren surveys, bat surveys, vegetation surveys, spotlight surveys, remote sensor camera work, weed management and bird research. 5-day and 2-day programs depart monthly during Spring and Autumn from Adelaide. Further Naturewise tours, itineraries, and departure dates and costs are available on their website.
FOR MORE www.naturewise.com.au
NATUREWISE VOLUNTEERS OUR
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Alternative transport
Images © Melanie Grevis-James and Green Cabs
PedalPower
WORDS: MELANIE GREVIS-JAMES
Environmentally-friendly travel can’t really get any better than jumping on a bike. Not only is it eco-friendly - it’s also good for you!
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oo often it’s just easier to grab the car keys and rush out the day, without a moment’s consideration about what it’s doing for the environment… hopefully we inspire you to grab the bike helmet more often than the car keys! Travelling by bike is also tremendous fun – meeting new people, heading off the beaten track; life seems slower and more invigorating; and to top it all, it is a healthy social activity that the whole family can enjoy.
Green Cabs
Established in 2008 in Brisbane, Green Cabs offers an alternative fossil-fuelfree way to get around the city. The vision of Dr Steven Kenway and his business partner David Burgin, the business operates throughout the CBD area. The green cabs were originally developed for the World Expo in 1988, when Steven was a young student. Now years later as a UQ Fulbright Scholar and Senior Research Fellow for the UQ’s School of Chemical Engineering,
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Dr Kenway’s research focuses on water and energy efficient cities – with Green Cabs as the perfect role model. “We both wanted to do something that was fun, gave active and healthy employment to young people in the city, and was good for Brisbane. While the business is very small now (we have 15 bikes), we have high visibility.” Steven has always had a passion for the environment and his view of sustainability is an ecological one. Many people consider sustainability largely from an economic side. “I accept this is part of it, but the quality of the environment globally and locally is the most critical yardstick for me. Cycling rather than driving is a great way for individuals to contribute to sustainability”. Green Cabs provide taxi services on weekends and during special events and school holidays. Trips start from $5 per person. Green Cabs was a finalist in the 2010 Lord Mayor’s Sustainability Award.
Sam’s Story
We met 18-year-old Sam Mitchell in outback New South Wales in April this year – and Susan (our freelance journalist) met him in northern Queensland, the Northern Territory, and then again in Western Australia just recently – he’s travelled a long way and has many a tale to tell from his solo adventure on two wheels through some of Australia’s harshest and most remote regions. What’s most impressive though is when you see his form of transport! Sam modified a bicycle with the installation of solar panels (doubling as shade protection) with the aim to show that travelling without burning fossil fuels is possible. In his own words, after his first test ride early 2013: “100m down, several million to go, unproven design, remote areas, harsh conditions, and some idealistic goal to do it without burning fossil fuels, what could go wrong!!!” – read his blog and you’ll find out just what can go wrong… but he sure has proven his point! Good on you Sam and good luck! Watch out for those road trains…
FOR MORE www.greencabs.net.au Susan’s travel blog: campervandreaming.blogspot.com. au/2013/08/meet-sam.html Sam’s blog: solarshiftaus.blogspot.com.au (an entertaining read)
Self-drive
ATHERTON WOODLANDS ECO CABIN ACCOMMODATION
Touring the Tablelands
region is also renowned for the large variety of bird species, many of which can be seen at the park if you keep careful watch. Local bird watching tours are available from nearby Yungaburra. The itinerary is available from reception or their website.
ATHERTON TABLELANDS VIEW
Images courtesy of BIG4 Atherton Woodlands Tourist Park, Tropical Tabelands Tourism, and thl Australia
A self-drive campervan holiday is one of the most enjoyable ways to see our vast country – and now you can be rest assured that you can travel, and stay, with eco-friendly companies along the way.
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here are a good number of ecoaccredited caravan and holiday parks around Australia, accredited by Ecotourism Australia, or the ‘Gumnut Awards’ accreditation program (an initiative of CCIA NSW). And if you rent a campervan from Kea, maui, Britz or Mighty rentals – you can travel in comfort and style knowing you’ve hired a vehicle from Australia’s only eco-certified campervan rental company.
to explore “nature’s wonders” on the Atherton Tablelands. Millaa Millaa Waterfalls, Lake Tinaroo, Yungaburra and the Curtain Fig Tree, and the Herberton BM351 Woodlands ad PRINTpdf.pdf 1 Mining Museum are all close by. The
The property has Nature Tourism ecotourism certification, with a range of accommodation available from camping and caravan sites, to cottages, eco cabins and a solar-powered lodge.
FOR MORE www.woodlandscp.com.au www.athertontablelands.com.au
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7:08 AM
Not only is the multi award-winning BIG4 Atherton Woodlands Tourist Park located in the heart of the naturally attractive Atherton Tablelands region, the park itself is a natural attraction too. C “Our award winning gardens have M been planted to bring many varieties of Y birdlife, for which we have become very CM well known, and a small family of Bush MY Wallabies call our Park home. During the wet season we are even lucky enough to CY have Platypus in our creek!”, says Patrice CMY Fletcher, owner of the park. K
Patrice and her husband Quentin have put together a suggested itinerary
CAMPERVANNING WITH BRITZ OUR
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Marine Discovery
A Ray of
longest snorkel at a shallow reef known as The Maze, while the boat (built with a short draft specifically for Ningaloo) moored nearby. The visibility was terrific. Afterwards we shared tales about swimming over elegant, colourful hard corals, amongst relaxed green turtles, abundant populations of tiny and super-sized reef fish, even a bluespine unicorn fish.
Hope WORDS: SUSAN WOODWARD
No visit to Western Australia is complete without visiting the sublime Ningaloo Marine Park. Brimming with coral, fish, shark, ray, turtle, dolphin, whale, and more, this 300-kilometre stretch of rare fringing reef rightly earned World Heritage status in 2011.
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Images: courtesy of Coral Bay Ecotours
he tiny town of Coral Bay, to the south, is a popular place to access the reef and take a peek.
After spending a day snorkelling with Coral Bay Ecotours, I can attest that here is a company living by its brand name. Founded in 1994, it’s the only carbon neutral tour operator on Ningaloo (and probably in the whole of Western Australia), receiving its certification through Australia’s Carbon Reduction Institute. “It was a costly exercise,” says manager Roger Bailye, who has worked with Coral Bay Ecotours for 14 years. “They went
through everything, even our packaging. But it’s important to take these steps to protect our healthy ecosystems, and we’re proud to be able to offer no-impact tours to our customers.” It’s not just talk. Every crew member I spoke with aboard the Kurni-Ku was a dedicated conservationist in heart and action. Lead tour guide Alice Martino soon got us swimming with a beautiful female manta ray, her graceful two-metre wings propelling her along the ocean’s sandy bottom. Excitement peaked after clients experienced the day’s last and
The day’s only downer was learning that manta rays have suffered an alarming and heartbreaking 86 percent decline in numbers worldwide in just the past 8 years. Ali explained to the group that they’re being hunted for the unproven “medicinal” qualities of their gill rakers, which are consumed mostly in China. At Coral Bay Ecotours, the living reef is the first client; you come second. If that sounds about right, this is the company for you. See the reef and become an advocate for the world’s oceans!
FOR MORE www.coralbayecotours.com.au www.mantarayofhope.com www.mantawatch.com www.wildaid.org
Enjoy a journey that you will never forget!
www.coralbayecotours.com.au K. Bailye HQ 69217WSC
Indulge yourself with the opportunity to snorkel with Whale Sharks, Manta Rays ,Turtles and more of the most spectacular marine life on the World Heritage listed Ningaloo Reef. We offer it all to you - Glass Bottom Boat Tours, Marine Ecotours, Whale Shark Tours, Whale watching, ATV Tours. Our professional and friendly staff will help to make your day truly memorable & provide the best possible knowledge and assistance. As if that is not exciting enough we are the first and only Carbon Neutral tourist operator on the Ningaloo Reef.
Shop 4, Peoples Shopping Village, Coral Bay 6701 Ph: +61 8 9942 5885 Fax: +61 8 9942 5870 E: coralbayecotours@bigpond.com
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Responsible Travel
of a man ISRAEL SAHLE IN THE SIMIEN MOUNTAINS
Icon Adventures is a small company with a big heart. Based in Brisbane, the company adopted responsible travel practices right from the start. Their company slogan reads: “Live to travel, travel to give” - summing up precisely what they do.
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wned and operated by husband and wife team Chris and Laura Ramsey, along with their friend Suzanne Holden, the business specialises in guided trekking and adventure experiences in Africa, India, South East Asia, China, and Papua New Guinea. They support local charities and communities in the countries they visit on an ongoing basis.
and has a strong vision of how things could be better. Israel went to Bahirdar University to study economics, and is very clear about the importance of education in his country, “… education is a powerful weapon to break vicious
Images courtesy of Icon Adventures
The making
circle of poverty, and education is a bridge to your future. There are so many things which my community needs, but education comes first! Education fights poverty the most!”. Icon provides the income for Israel’s family, and he’s very proud to work for them. In his own words he concludes the interview saying “thanks to Icon Adventures, who brought my dreams closer and created a job opportunity; others are still working with big companies which have no trust in the local people. Icon Adventures is unique! Icon Adventures 4 ever!”
FOR MORE www.iconadventures.com.au
Interview with Israel Sahle
In Ethiopia they are assisted on the ground by Israel Sahle, a local guide who has worked for them since 2006, and loves introducing people to his beautiful country. We asked Israel for his comments about working for Icon. He said, “I would say the date that I met Icon was a golden date or opportunity. It was a year when I was trying to walk by my own. A year when I turned into a full man!” “Another world was opened ahead of me, I met many ‘’ferenji’’ foreigners from different corners of the world with their different views, thoughts, beliefs… these broaden my imagination beyond the horizon. I tried to adjust myself as a world citizen” continued Israel. Israel lives in Gondar with his family, and is the sole bread winner. He is very aware of the issues his country faces,
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Annapurna Community Lodges KHOPRA RIDGE DINING ROOM WORDS & IMAGES: BRUCE FOREMAN
New community lodges interspersed amongst the herdsmen’s huts of Nepal’s restricted development zone of the Annapurna Dhaulagiri trek make it easier (and a little more comfortable) to get off the heavily touristed Annapurna Circuit, and to visit viewpoints that previously only serious camping trekkers could access.
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here’s a feel-good element to it as well, as the lodging fees pay much-needed wages for teachers in schools just a little too far away to benefit from the tourist dollars that flow around the nearby Teahouse Circuit. The Annapurna-Dhaulagiri trek loops off the Circuit between Tadapani and Ghorepani, leaving the teahouses, and the tourists, for much smaller trails which ascend through rhododendrons, oaks and pines into alpine meadows traditionally used by villages for
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grazing yaks in the summer months. Khopra Ridge is the highlight of this loop, boasting closer views of Annapurna South and Dhaulagiri than anywhere on the circuit. The glassedin view from the lodge’s dining room offers trekkers a slice of herding life, with the herdsmen bedding down the yaks, milking them each morning and sending them out to graze under a stunning backdrop of snowy Himalayan peaks. At 4000 metres, the lodge provides an acclimatising-sleepover point for the day trek up to the Holy
CARETAKER OF UPPER CHISTIBUNG COMMUNITYLODGE SHELTERING FROM THE WIND AT KAIRE LAKE
Kaire Lake, which sits at nearly 5000 metres, right below Annapurna’s south face. The views from this ten-hour turn-around walk are jawdropping and there is a sense of wilderness that is nowadays hard to find on the Annapurna Circuit.
UPPER CHISTIBUNG LODGE - HALF WAY BETWEEN SWANTAI AND KHOPRA RIDGE
OUR PLANET TRAVEL TIP When selecting a tour company for an overseas adventure, check out their tours and credentials carefully – we suggest selecting a company that clearly displays its sustainability statement, and promotes the responsible, sustainable and local community-minded activities they include in their tours. For example: support local communities and charities, employ local guides and staff, purchase food items locally, waste management practices, energy use minimised, low impact camping, no wood fires etc... In Australia, a couple of adventure companies (offering international tours) we suggest are: World Expeditions Peregrine Adventures Icon Adventures Intrepid Travel
www.worldexpeditions.com www.peregrineadventures.com www.iconadventures.com.au www.intrepidtravel.com
This wilderness comes at a cost however. Local villagers could be widening trails, signposting the route and building teahouses a la the profitable Circuit. Peregrine Travel, a company that sells wilderness experiences, recognises this opportunity cost and has helped fund and bring into being the community lodges, based on community title.
“views from this ten-hour turnaround walk are jaw- dropping” It’s a win-win situation, says Steve Wroe, the Destination Manager from Peregrine Travel. “Trekkers get to stay in lodges that are a lot nicer, cleaner and more comfortable than commercial lodges, located in quiet villages with great views. The locals enjoy the financial benefits.” And, of course – for the time being, at any rate – the precious wilderness is preserved. Passengers on Peregrine’s trips can also see how their money helps, visiting schools along their trek in villages such as Swantai that are funded by the lodges.
KHOPRA RIDGE LODGE WITH CAMPING GROUP
FOR MORE © Bruce Foreman
CARETAKER AT THE BAISHIKARKA COMMUNITY LODGE
Peregrine itineraries featuring the community lodges include the 18-day Annapurna Holy Lakes & Glaciers trek, and the 14-day Annapurna Dhaulagiri trek, but many other companies as well as independent trekkers use the lodges.
Peregrine’s Annapurna’s Holy Lakes and Glaciers Tour starts from approx AU$2760 per person, twin share. www.peregrineadventures. com/himalaya/nepal OUR
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Images courtesy of Dragonfly Tours Cambodia and Mayibuye
Kingdom of
Wonder Exploring hidden places is one of the joys of travel – made all the more enjoyable when you get to experience the country, and its people through local eyes.
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ragonfly Tours Cambodia is a small, privately-owned Khmer/Australian touring company that specialises in responsible travel in Cambodia. Their tours highlight the attractions, culture and people of this incredible land. They have gone to great lengths in creating tours that really capture the essence of Cambodia, while also developing tours that support local charities and community groups.
On Dragonfly’s special Mayibuye fundraising tours you can participate in a Cambodian Folk dance class taught by Lena, an expert traditional dancer. And, be treated to a rare opportunity – the students of Mayibuye present a performance of traditional and modern dances.
One of Dragonfly Tours local partner groups is Mayibuye, a not-for-profit organisation who provide services to empower young people through performing arts. Based on the programs operating in Cambodia, Australia and South Africa, Mayibuye’s experience has shown that learning and participating in the creative arts builds confidence and teaches life skills. In Cambodia, they also work to regenerate the traditional dances of Cambodia threatened by years of hardship and war.
one of the sights encountered on this
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Mayibuye is based in the small pretty riverside town of Kampot, near the coast of south east Cambodia, and is just culturally and visually-stunning journey through Cambodia. Other tour highlights include the key attractions of Siem Reap, including Angkor Wat, Lake Tonle Sap Biosphere Reserve, Phnom Penh, try cooking Cambodian cuisine, learn about architecture and ancient and modern history, mountains, beaches, rivers, and more. Cambodia is truly a kingdom of wonder, and a tour with Dragonfly gives you the
OSMOSE PADDLE AT KAMPOT
WIN A TOUR OF CAMBODIA! Total prize value USD $4198!
Prize includes a Mayibuye fundraising tour of Cambodia for 2 adults; or another Dragonfly tour of choice of equal value; departing 2014. All land arrangements, including transport, meals and accommodation included. Prize donated by Dragonfly Tours Cambodia.
TO ENTER:
Go to COMPETITIONS page on www.OurPlanetTravel.com.au Last date for entries 31 December 2013. rare opportunity to see the less visible side of this beautiful country. Dragonfly Tours also partners with other reputable NGOs in Cambodia to present their fundraising tours program. Scheduled tours depart regularly from Siem Reap or Phnom Penh. Tailor-made tours are available on request. The 15-day Mayibuye fundraising tours depart on 7 and 22 January, and 27 June 2014. Cost is from USD $2099 per person. 25% of the tour price is directly donated to Mayibuye Cambodia.
FOR MORE www.dragonflytourscambodia.com www.mayibuye.org.au
Self-drive eco discovery The Queensland coast is one of Australia’s most popular self-drive destinations – and ideal to explore in your campervan. Here we re-discover this premier drive from Brisbane to Cairns highlighting ecotourism attractions, tours and accommodation. Join us on our eco discovery tour… cabins and a caravan park. Whitsundays: here you will find eco cruises, tours, overnight sailing adventures, diving, and sea kayaking adventures; Cruise Whitsundays, Ocean Rafting, Whitsundays Sailing Adventures and more… Townsville: In Townsville, check out
DAINTREE DISCOVERY CENTRE
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assing through some of Australia’s most beautiful destinations, you will discover some hidden local secrets, and you’ll certainly meet ecofriendly and knowledgeable hosts along the way. Brisbane: start your journey from Brisbane Holiday Village. Head out to Walkabout Creek Visitor Centre to explore Brisbane Forest Park, and see native animals in their wildlife centre. Gold Coast Hinterland: head up to the Scenic Rim to Mt Barney Lodge (caravan and camping sites available) near Boonah; or to the Lamington National Park region and stay at Binna Burra Mountain Lodge or O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat – lush rainforest, waterfalls, hiking, flora and fauna. Don’t miss Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary or a daytour with Araucaria Ecotours. Sunshine Coast/Hinterland: explore the Noosa Biosphere – take a local rainforest tour, river or everglades cruise. Local eco operators include Cruise Maroochy Eco Tours, Off Beat Rainforest Tours and The Discovery Group in Noosa. Fraser & Capricorn Coasts: Kingfisher Bay Resort, Pumpkin Island and Lady Elliot Island Eco Retreat all offer island escapes with eco accredited facilities and tours. 1770 Larc Tours are a unique day out; while Capricorn Caves offers tours,
Billabong Sanctuary, Reef HQ and stay at Bungalow Bay Koala Village. North of Townsville, stay at Hidden Valley Cabins (Australia’s 1st carbon neutral accommodation and tour company). On the way to Cairns don’t miss the Mamu Rainforest Canopy Walkway. Cairns/Daintree Region: stay at Cairns Crystal Cascades Holiday Park, close to all the local tours, cruises, eco attractions and World Heritage listed national parks. Don’t miss the award-
winning Skyrail Rainforest Cableway experience, Tjapukai Aboriginal Cultural Park, Daintree Discovery Centre, and Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. Take a cruise or dive with local experts Great Adventures, Quicksilver, Ocean Safari, Cairns Dive Centre and more. Atherton Tablelands: a number of eco attractions are available; stay at ecoaccredited Atherton Woodlands Tourist Park, or Jabiru Safari Lodge at the Mareeba Wetlands.
FOR MORE Eco travel ideas: www.ourplanettravel.com.au Campervan rentals: www.britz.com.au www.maui.com.au www.keacampers.com www.mightycampers.com.au
Our Planet Travel magazine is proud to acknowledge thl Australia as our major supporter. thl Australia is the only eco-certified campervan rental company in Australia. This includes the rental brands Kea, maui, Britz and Mighty. Branches are located throughout Australia: Adelaide, Alice Springs, Ballina-Byron Bay, Brisbane, Broome, Cairns, Darwin, Hobart, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney.
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1800 705 174
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Enter the OuR PLANEt PHOtO COmPEtItION for your chance to win! turn to Page 21 for details. At Britz, we understand that we are dependent on the raw beauty of the environment in which we operate. One of our core values is to minimise our impact on the environment. So when you take a holiday with us remember to Leave No Trace! And if you want to enhance your eco experience, check out the projects run by our friends at Conservation Volunteers.
For more information on your next trip visit britz.com.au JOIN OUR ONLINE COMMUNITY
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