Australia Special

© Tourism Tasmania & Joe Shemesh // Cape Hauy, Tasman National Park

NOV 2013

Free

QLD | NSW | VIC | TAS | NT | WA | SA

AUSTRALIA SPECIAL

Visit the only wonder of the world that’s underwater

D I S C O V E R T H E G R E AT B A R R I E R R E E F AT AU S T R A L I A . C O M

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Boundless Beauty

Exploring Queensland

From Bush to Beach

Exploring New South Wales

Southern Journey

Exploring Victoria

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A Varied Vista Exploring Tasmania

Top End Culture Exploring The Northern Territory

Natural Wonders Exploring Western Australia

Wild Down Under Exploring South Australia

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Keep Exploring Tourism Australia South Australia Tasmania

www.australia.com www.hk.southaustralia.com www.discovertasmania.com

Tourism Western Australia ww w.westernaustralia.com Tourism Victoria www.visitvictoria.com www.visitmelbourne.com Northern Territory www.travelnt.com New South Wales www.visitnsw.com // www.sydne y.com Queensland www.te.queensland.com

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EXPLORING QUEENSLAND Queensland

Queensland’s boundaries enclose more than a million square kilometres, secluded beaches, quaint 100-person towns, fast-paced cities, rainforests, and more.

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Torres Strait Islands

© Brisbane Marketing

BRISBANE The sub-tropical capital of the Sunshine State is a must-visit destination. Brisbane has lots to offer – from beaches, to live music, to gorgeous Gothic Revival churches.

Take advantage of the city’s 1,200km of walkways and bikeways, and explore Brisbane on bike. The city-wide bicycle rental system, Citycycle, boasts over 100 rental stations, and on trails like the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail and Bicentennial Bikeway you can sightsee while travelling.

If you’re looking for some cultured, artsy fun, catch a concert at the Brisbane Powerhouse, visit the Queensland Art Gallery, or get a rare look inside some of Brisbane’s iconic buildings during the annual Open House in October. For a fantastic view of the city, do an adventure climb up the

steel structure of the Brisbane Story Bridge – once you reach the top you can even try abseiling down.

Port Douglas Cairns Karumba Atherton Tablelands

Mission Beach

Great Barrier Reef

Attractions outside of the city include Lamington National rainforests and excellent vantage points, and the Booyong Walk, a 1.5 km tree-top boardwalk that takes you through the canopy of a World Heritage rainforest area.

On the Sunshine Coast north of Brisbane, try out the new Flyboard experience, which uses jetski technology to propel users above the water, where they can safely perform aerial stunts.

Winton

QUEENSLAND Fraser Island

BRISBANE Tamborine National Park Gold Coast

Š Tourism and Events Queensland

FRASER ISLAND

Š Tourism and Events Queensland / Chris McLennan

An old backpacker and adventure traveller favourite, this idyllic island just off the Australian East coast, 200km north of Brisbane, still has what it takes to make it a unique destination.

Known for its nearly endless and deserted beaches, dramatically-coloured sand natural sand-blows, and its iconic population of Dingoes, it affords endless opportunities for nature and wildlife lovers.

Visitors can tour the island's wonders on day trips with 4WD bus tours, drive a hired 4WD in a tag-along tour over one or more days, or make their own way in a 4WD vehicle.

visit, as is the short nature walk at Central Station through one of Australia's only rainforests growing in sand. And if the opportunity arises, don't miss out on a walk across one of the vast, dune-like sand-blows where, if you are very lucky,

Fraser Island

Queensland

5 © © Tourism Tourism and and Events Events Queensland Queensland

© © Tourism Tourism and and Events Events Queensland Queensland // Matt Matt Harvey Harvey

GOLD GOLD COAST COAST

There’s There’s aa reason reason why why Gold Gold Coast Coast City’s City’s most most popular popular tourist tourist district district is is named named Surfers Surfers Paradise Paradise –– the the Gold Gold Coast Coast boasts boasts These These include include Snapper Snapper Rocks, Rocks, the the location location of of the the Roxy Roxy Pro Pro and and Quiksilver Quiksilver Pro Pro competitions; competitions; Currumbin Currumbin Alley, Alley, aa beautiful, beautiful, beginner-friendly beginner-friendly beach; beach; and and Burleigh Burleigh Heads, Heads, located located on on the the edge edge of of aa national national park. park.

For For aa birds-eye birds-eye view view of of all all these these beaches, beaches, visit visit the the SkyPoint, SkyPoint, an an observation observation platform platform

at at the the top top of of Gold Gold Coast Coast City’s City’s Q1 Q1 building... building... by by climbing climbing up up the the building building exterior! exterior! And And ifif you you love love the the sea sea but but don’t don’t water-powered water-powered JetPack JetPack ride ride along along Surfers Surfers Paradise.

Paradise.

Away Away from from the the sea, sea, in in the the Gold Gold Coast Coast bushwalking bushwalking trails, trails, mountain mountain villas, villas, Be Be sure sure to to stop stop by

by Adventure Adventure Parc, Parc, where where you’ll you’ll face face over over 70 70 rope rope challenges, challenges, bridges bridges and and other other activities, activities, all all set set within within

the the Mount Mount Tamborine Tamborine rainforest. rainforest.

There’s There’s also also the the Border Border Track Track at at Binna Binna Burra Burra South, South, aa 22km 22km track track (that (that means means you’ll you’ll spend spend ten ten hours hours walking walking 44km 44km in in Numinbah Numinbah Valley, Valley, Daves Daves Creek Creek and and towards towards the the Green Green Mountains.

Mountains. While While trekking, trekking, you you might might even even get get the the chance chance to to hear hear the the native native lyrebirds lyrebirds singing singing –– these these birds birds are are famed famed for for their their ability ability to to mimic mimic sounds sounds as as diverse diverse as as animal animal calls calls and and camera camera shutters, shutters, and and even even human human speech. speech.

© Tourism and Events Queensland

Great Barrier Reef

THE OUTBACK The red, expansive landscape of Queensland’s Outback, which lies west of its coastal towns, has always held a special place in the Australian identity.

At Winton, near the geographic heart of Matilda Centre to learn the story behind the beloved song. Or you could try staying at one of Queensland’s numerous cattle stations, to experience a traditional way of life that survives to this day.

Some staples of Outback culture you won’t want to miss: the annual Mount Isa Rodeo, the southern hemisphere’s largest rodeo,

and the Birdsville Races, a gathering of top-ranking race horses and over 6,000 people that has been turning the tiny town of Birdsville into one giant carnival every year since 1882. in the Outback – this is also the home of some wonderfully preserved dinosaur fossils, including the Lark Quarry Dinosaur Trackways, the only place on earth where you can view evidence of a dinosaur stampede. If you like your wildlife encounters to be a little less prehistoric, Normanton, or explore the dunes and lakes of the Simpson Desert by 4WD.

© Tourism and Events Queensland / Tony Walsh

Queensland

7 © Tourism and Events Queensland © Delaware North Companies

© Tourism Australia / Greg Primmer

TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND In the Tropical North Queensland (TNQ) region lie some of the state’s greatest natural treasures – including, of course, the Great Barrier Reef. To reach the world-famous Reef, you should stop at either Port Douglas or Cairns, two relaxed seaside towns from which you can embark on snorkeling or diving tours.

At Cairns, you can even skydive over the Reef, and enjoy Cairns Minjin Jungle Swing, which is exactly what it sounds like –

a giant swing that takes you soaring through the rainforest.

Be sure to make time for some of TNQ’s other attractions, too. Visit Mission Beach, a 14km-long stretch of golden sand between Townsville and Cairns, where you’ll a hundred-year-old shipwreck (the ‘Lady Bowen’), which has been taken over by nature and transformed into a beautiful reef.

And then there are the Torres Strait Islands,

located off the Queensland coast and accessible by ferry. The volcanic islands are rich with indigenous culture and offer The Atherton Tablelands, a mountainous area south-west of Cairns, is known as the acclaimed chocolatiers, restaurants and cheesemakers, and you’ll even be able to enjoy a cup of coffee made with all-local ingredients sourced from Atherton dairies and plantations.

EXPLORING NEW SOUTH WALES While NSW may be a small state compared to some of its neighbours, it boasts a wide range of landscapes where you can enjoy the wild outback on a 4WD, scuba dive in the pristine waters off Lord Howe Island or go bushwalking in the eucalyptus forests of the Blue Mountains.

New South Wales Mungo National Park

Blue Mountain

Snowy Mountain

Sydney

Pierces Pass, Blue Mountains

© Chris Jones / Destination NSW

A popular destination just 60km from Sydney, the Blue Mountains get their name from the characteristic blue haze that is produced when sunlight is mixed with drops of oil released by eucalyptus that blanket the region's tablelands and valleys.

Part of a traditional Aboriginal land, the park has unique history, wildlife and world-famous scenery – especially at Grose Wilderness which is known for its wild unspoilt natural beauty. The park is a World Heritage site, with 1 million hectares of breathtaking scenery with walking trails that suite everyone. Bushwalks range from 1 hour rambles to challenging multi-day hikes.

Blue Mountains

© Adam Taylor / Destination NSW

Bushwalking The National Pass is part of a network of tracks that include interesting features like the Overcliff-Undercliff Walk, Nature Track and the historic Charles Darwin Walk that heads upstream along Jamison Creek to Wentworth Falls village.

The Katoomba region has plenty of attractions, including the spectacular landmark of the Three Sisters and Katoomba Falls. From Echo Point, you can view the Three Sisters – a trio of ochre spires that jut out from the valley rom a variety of lookouts. You can also walk down the path along the Giant Stairway (980 steps) to the valley r, following the path past Katoomba Falls and return to

the top via the Scenic Railway. The trail is part of the Prince Henry Cliff Walk, which is a ridgetop walk that provides amazing views of the Jamison and Grose Valleys.

Govetts Leap Lookout is a popular panoramic hotspot that is the beginning of a descent into Grove Valley for one of the region's more physical walks, with views of towering cliffs and waterfalls.

The Blue Mountains is also host to the Festival of Walking, a 9-day celebration of the region. Held in October, the festival features a variety of walks, from treks and challenging bushwalks to history tours combined with local wine and cheese sampling.

Three Sisters, Blue Mountains

© Destination NSW

Lucas Cave, Jenolan caves, Blue Mountains

© James Horan / Destination NSW

Other activities The landscape and terrain of sandstone escarpments, canyons and meandering creeks and rivers provide an ideal backdrop for canyoning, abseiling and adventure caving.

Plenty of operators have guided adventure tours that include activities like kayaking, 4WD, rock climbing and photographic safaris.

Three Sisters, Blue Mountains

Another site worth visiting is the Jenolan caves, with 11 show caves that feature underground rivers, spectacular lighting and cave formations.

There are several types of tours available, including night tours and adventure caving, and those with a keen eye may be able to spot native wildlife like the elusive platypus.

© Destination NSW / David Hill

OUTBACK NSW To the west of NSW lies a large tract of the Outback, where spectacular ochre landscapes, ethereal waterways and indigenous history remain the backbone of this region.

The sun-baked sand dunes and lush wetlands teem with wildlife, and you can spend your time exploring the back roads, walking tracks or cycling trails to discover this environment.

One of the best ways to explore NSW's Outback is to tackle the Darling River Run, one of NSW's greatest drives tracing the route of the Darling River (the 'spine' of the Outback).

Stretching 2,740km, the route passes unique and remote towns like Lightning Ridge and White Cliffs, where you'll get to explore the river trips. Not to be missed is Broken Hill, a mining heritage town with access to the Living Desert,

Royal F

a 2,400 hectare reserve complete with walking trails through an amazing wildlife sanctuary.

Broken Hill is also home of the Royal Flying Doctor Service.

Located within the Outback is Mungo National Park, a World Heritage site that contains over 40,000 years of aboriginal history.

Ar and Mungo Woman, along with spectacular geological formations of the Walls of China are just some of the highlights you can explore while driving or cycling through this region.

Other parks to explore include Sturt National Park (a habitat for wedge-tailed eagles), Paroo-Darling National Park (home to a vast number of waterbirds) and Yanga National Park (with 19th century homesteads). You can easily go bush camping at any of the parks.

© Don Fuchs; Destination NSW

© Destination NSW

Walls of China, Mungo NP © Grahame McConnell; Destination NSW

© Grahame McConnell; Destination NSW

Mungo NP

© Don Fuchs; Destination NSW

North Head, Lord Howe Island

Flying Doctor Service Hangar, Broken hill

LORD HOWE’S ISLAND Located 660km off the north shore of NSW and accessible via Qantaslink ferry from Sydney and Brisbane, this World Heritage-listed island paradise can only be visited by 400 visitors at any one time. Thanks to this sense of isolation, it's much easier to enjoy the pristine wilderness of the island – from the remarkable geology and rare collection of birds to its pristine underwater terrain that teems with marine life and rare corals.

You can get around by bicycle or on foot, and partake in water-based activities like scuba diving, snorkelling, Lord Howe's pristine nature makes it ideal for walkers and hikers to discover the island on foot. Well-marked walking tracks traverse the island, allowing you to get close with

the island's 64 unique species of owering plants and endangered birds. For the adventurous, a climb to the summit of Mt. Gower (875m) – one of the island's towering twin peaks – is considered one of the world's best hikes, from where there is a stunning vista incorporating Mt. Lidgbird in the foreground and The Lagoon below. The jagged spires of Balls Pyramid seems to rise from the sea along the descent. You can also challenge yourself on a 1-day guided climb.

There are also plenty of options for leisurely walks under lush forest canopies.

You can stroll through native kentia palm and giant banyan forests, and keep a look out for native plants like the red mountain rose and wedding lily, as well as seabirds like petrels, shearwaters, nodes and masked boobies. Those interested in birdlife can tackle

tracks that lead to nesting sites at Clear Place, Muttonbird Point, Malabar Hill and Mt. Eliza – the sheer number of birds makes Lord Howe Island a birdwatcher's paradise.

About 700km offshore from Sydney, Lord Howe Island Marine Park is the world's southernmost coral reef, and the only fringing coral reef lagoon in NSW. Here, you can swim, dive snorkel and kayak amongst the marine biodiversity that is a result of a unique mix of temperate and tropical species thanks to the convergence of warm and cool waters. Plenty of species can easily be seen close to the shore (you can snorkel straight off the sand at Ned's Beach), while other marine life – from green and hawksbill can be observed at one of over 80 dive sites.

Lord Howe Island © Tourism Australia / Greg Primmer Snowy Mountains

© Perisher

SNOWY MOUNTAINS Topped by Mt. Kosciuszko (2,228m) along with the continent's 5 highest peaks, the Snowy Mountains offers a long list of adventure activities year-round, including mountain biking, horse riding and hiking in summer, and skiing and snowboarding in winter.

All 4 of NSW's snow resorts – Thredbo, Perisher, Charlotte Pass re within Kosciuszko National Park, an area with outstanding beauty featuring glacial lakes, limestone caves, grasslands and woodlands. During the winter season, you can go night skiing, downhill or cross-country skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing.

Thredbo is home to Australia's longest runs, plus an assortment of tree-lined trails, open bowls and groomed supertrails.

A European-style ski village tops the ski experience. Access to the trails is via the Kosciuszko Express Chairlift, which hoists you close to the summit. rout in mountain streams, crisp lakes and required).

During summer, hiking to Australia's highest mountain, Mt. Kosciuszko, provides breathtaking views of this unique ecosystem which consists of sub-alpine snowgum woodlands and tall forests of alpine ash and mountain gum.

EXPLORING VICTORIA

Victoria is physically dwarfed by Australia’s other mainland states, but it’s really a giant in all other aspects, like landscapes and Australia’s most vibrant city, Victoria

VICTORIA

Mt Buller

Mt Hotham Falls Creek

Melbourne

Great Ocean Road

Philip Island

Federation Square

Melbourne and surrounds Melbourne, Victoria’s capital, is known for its abundance of lovely cafes, bustling streets, trendy shopping and nightlife districts, and well-established art, music and theatre than you could possibly imagine at the annual Melbourne Festival, or stroll through the city laneways, discovering hidden bars and warehouses-turned-art galleries If you’d rather paddle than walk, join one of the many kayak tours unique experience, you can choose a sunrise or nighttime tour, and get a good workout while admiring the sleeping Melbourne is home to several of Victoria’s Rail Trails, which are old timber tramways converted

Take your bike down the Sandridge Railway Trail, which takes you from Flinders Street Station to Port Melbourne, passing through the parkland the Lilydale to Warburton Rail you travel down the 40 km trail you’ll go past open forest and farmland, as well as some Mt Stirling, just outside Melbourne, is a great place for cross-country skiing in the winter and bushwalking or It’s also a convenient spot for you to start a 4WD adventure in Victoria’s Alpine National Park, with its combination of extensive tracks and ski

Victoria

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Twelve Apostles

Great Ocean Walk The Great Ocean Walk is a walking track spanning 104 kilometres of beautiful coastline Built by over 3000 World War One veterans, the Road is also the world’s largest war Parks Victoria before they can enter the track, the trail, in Marengo, walkers will be treated to the sight of an Australian Fur Seal colony, At the end of the Great Ocean Walk, walkers will come across Port Campbell National Park which numerous rock formations including the famous Twelve Apostles and the London Arch Another splendid location, the Marine National Walk along the cliff tops for a chance to spot be able to see some kangaroos and emus There are many beaches throughout the Great Lorne beach, by the Erskine River, is good for beginners, while the Ocean Grove and Torquay surf beaches offer thrilling, strong

Great Ocean Walk

is the surf capital of Australia, and is the home of world-famous surf companies like Rip Curl and Quiksilver, as well as a place where you

Phillip Island Nature Park

Phillip Island Located less than two hours drive from Melbourne, Phillip Island is one of Victoria's largest recreational playground, and offers Australia’s most popular wildlife attractions – the

experience, join the Ultimate Penguin Tour, The Koala Conservation Centre offers close-up viewing of koalas in their natural habitat, from site has been vital for saving the koala

smallest penguins adorably waddling home

sleep for nearly 21 hours a day, it’s not too

© Tourism Victoria

Gunnamatta Beach

Mornington Peninsula

The region’s cool climate Over 60 boutique wineries are concentrated and the southern part of Mornington Peninsula has been the site of wine Aside from wine-tasting, another exciting activity to try is horse riding across the peninsula’s a two-hour journey with Gunnamatta Trail Rides to St Andrews ocean beach where the horses joyfully stroll along the

Victoria

Just an hour from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula boasts beautiful coastal landscapes, and is a perfect escape from

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to the Port Phillip Bay, where you For an even more memorable experience, go for a winery tour while riding a horse with

experience the true wine culture

Mornington Peninsula

© Tourism and Events Queensland / Karen Brook Photography

© Tourism Victoria Three Sisters, Blue Mountains

Mt Baw Baw

Skiing Grab your skis and make for Victoria's alpine resorts for exhilarating skiing on resorts, Mount Buller, Falls Creek, runs suitable for beginner, intermediate Mt Buller is located 200 km east of Melbourne, and is more popular amongst pro skiers and competition organisers thanks to its proximity to the system, a huge variety of slopes and terrain parks, and a lively resort town, Mt Buller is great if you’re thinking of Falls Creek is Victoria's largest beginner/intermediate friendly, with almost 80% of the resort dedicated true ski-in/ski-out accommodation, and a huge range of activities both after, terrain parks with Australia's best pipes, as well as rails and jumps, Falls

of Melbourne, enjoys greater snowfall

range of accommodation options for happen throughout the winter, including sled dog races, children’s races and even a ‘retro day’ fundraiser, during which visitors are encouraged to dress

Falls Creek

EXPLORING TASMANIA long stretches of white beaches, lichen covered rocks,

Tasmania

temperate rainforests and rugged isolated coastlines cloaking the west, mountain ranges towering the and the air fresher and purer having travelled across

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Launceston

Tasmania

Torres Strait Islands

Hobart Tasman Peninsula

HOBART

scenic backdrop is host to a variety of festivals and adventure activities

Š Brisbane Marketing

Princes Wharf No 1, Hobart

Top Gun Australia

For those looking to experience Hobart’s historically rich scenery from the air (with added thrills) get suited up in

Cradle Mountain Sitting prominently in Lake St Clair National Park, northwest of Hobart, Cradle Mountain

by a trek through a variety of landscapes, including wintry valleys, alpine meadows and buttongrass moorlands before ending at the this option, there are private huts propped

named after its semblance to a gold mining For those looking for a more aggressive Most tour companies offer the whole package, which includes the quad bike and the area using the Enchanted Walk, which dense temperate rainforests before tackling

involves riding through quiet open spaces

roughly through the interiors, the walk starts off

Other options for traversing across this trail

Coles Bay

FREYCINET Situated northeast of Hobart is the Freycinet

Tasmania Tasmania

white sandy beaches, the 38km long coastline You can glide across the coastline in a kayak, and marvel at the peninsula’s backdrop of pink granite mountains netted with lush green rainforests that are inhabited by wildlife like

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within the area, kayak across Honeymoon Bay or Coles Bay, and you may get the opportunity to paddle with a pod of Bottlenose dolphins You can also snorkel in the clear shallow

Wineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park

LAUNCESTON streetscapes and vast vineyards to rugged cliffs and terrains is through a Segway tour offered by Hollybank With plenty of boardwalks and trails dotted throughout

peacocks grazing on the lawns and ride across the gorge on the worlds longest single span chair lift built in

TASMAN PENINSULA dark convict past begin as you travel across Eaglehawk Neck, a narrow isthmus connecting the peninsula

the lives of these convicts at the Port

formations, shrouded back passageways set against the backdrop of a dramatic, Peninsula is set aside as a conservation is bristled with opportunities to try a range of adventure activities such as bushwalking, eco cruises and kayaking adventures exploring the

Waterfall Bay

form of brightly-coloured invertebrates and

Nuzzling the coastline, and home to towering beaches, what lies beneath Waterfall Bay is a large vault of underwater caves that are ideal

there are certain areas of the cave that are friendlier to experienced divers like the

favourite among divers; this series of caves banded together by interconnected tunnels and caverns, which are accessible through caves systems are smaller and located within is perfect with very little swell; the hypnotising draw of the labyrinth-like cave comes in the

EagleHawk Neck of world-class scuba diving sites suitable for divers of all levels of experience, including the famous Waterfall Bay caves, the historic wreck of the SS "Nord" with huge Kelp forests which are home to

SS “NORD� Wreck

meant for experienced divers (with a to the cold, harsh waters of the Southern the site is easily accessed by boat from With clear visibility throughout, the dive down can be a little laborious but upon reaching the ship, divers will be able to view the sheer enormity as well as the colourful

Tasmania

that sank in the 19th century, the 88m-long

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sightings include colourful schools of Kelps that can be found peeking through open corners, and Banded Stingrays that

Kelp Forests

Once common all along the ocean are now only found in a couple of small per day, these kelps form towering metres in depth, creating shelter through dense canopies for a diverse

through a rainforest, get up close with brightly-coloured Weedy Seadragons along with various wrasses, banded octopus and the occasional Bigbelly

EXPLORING NORTHERN TERRITORY

Arnhem

The Northern Territory, which stretches for 1500 km from Darwin on the north coast to the arid, red heart of Australia, is sparsely populated but full of natural and cultural attractions. Most ‘Top Enders’ live in small settlements along the Stuart Highway, the country’s longest highway which stretches from Darwin, through Alice Springs and Katherine, all the way to Adelaide in South Australia.

Darwin

Katherine gorge

Northern Territory

© Chris Jones; Destination NSW

© Tourism NT

© Adam Taylor; Destination NSW

DARWIN

Darwin is a small but lively city, with a rich history and strong connection to South East Asia. Enjoy the city’s unique tropical architecture, view mangrove forests and WWII bunkers at the Charles Darwin National Park, some respite from the heat in the city’s many museums and shopping spots. After a long day of sightseeing during the dry season, relax at Darwin’s outdoor Deckchair Cinema, or enjoy traditional cuisine in one of the melting-pot city’s many restaurants.

© Tourism NT

Northern Territory

23 Katherine Gorge, Nitmiluk National Park

© Tourism NT

Katherine Gorge, Nitmiluk National Park

© Tourism NT

LITCHFIELD & KATHERINE GORGE waterfalls and cascades. At the largest waterfalls (which include Florence, Wangi, Tolmer, and Tjaetaba falls) and gorges, visitors can enjoy pockets of mangrove forest and crystal-clear swimming holes. Elsewhere in the park lie the remnants of a late 19th century tin mine, and several Aboriginal sacred sites (which are usually closed to visitors).

The Katherine River, which shares its name with a nearby town, is located in another national park – Nitmiluk National Park. The park is a vast patchwork of diverse habitats, including tropical jungle, savannah, rivers and arid bushland.

Running along the edge of Nitmiluk, the river sits within the famously breathtaking Katherine Gorge, which was carved out over a billion years by moving water.

During the dry season (April to October), the Katherine River’s waters are low and calm – this is the best time to visit. During the wet season (November to March) waters rise by as much as 10 metres. With millions of litres coursing through the gorge, navigation past the river is dangerous and near impossible.

© Tourism NT

KAKADU The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kakadu National Park, located near Darwin, contains a variety of natural habitats that have been over 2,000 million years in the making. The park is also one of Australia’s richest repositories of Aboriginal rock art, containing over 5,000 sites, some of which are 20,000 years old. at Ubirr and Nourlangie. Hidden under rock ledges at Ubirr are Aboriginal rock

paintings which depict ancestors and local animals such as barramundi, goannas and wallabies. From the Nardab Lookout, near the main gallery, you can take in a spectacular view of At Nourlangie, you can admire paintings of ancestors at the Anbangbang rock shelter, learn about creation myths of the region, and go on several walking trails which radiate from the Nourlangie sandstone cliff.

Aboriginal Rock Art

© Peter Eve

© Tourism NT

Bowali Visitor Centre, Kakadu National Park

© Tourism NT

Northern Territory

25 Yellow Water Billabong, Kakadu

© Tourism NT

Termite mounds Kakadu © Peter Eve

ARNHEM LAND

Arnhem Land comprises 91,000 square kilometres of wilderness located along Australia’s north coast. Its ancient landscapes have been populated by Aboriginal people for 40,000 years, and the art found in the area sports a unique ‘x-ray’ visual style. About 3,000 people live in Arnhem Land today, and this is one of the few places in Australia where traditional lifestyles are still thriving.

This is a great destination for travellers interested in culture – you can visit galleries like the acclaimed Maningrida Arts Centre or attend the many festivals held in the region. One of the most popular festivals is the Garma Festival, which is held in Arnhem Land each August and celebrates the local Yolngu culture.

Anabangbang Billabong, Kakadu

Nourlangie, Kakadu

EXPLORING WESTERN AUSTRALIA Western Australia encompasses the Coral Coast, close to a million square kilometres of golden outback, and an expansive, rugged, north-western wilderness. It’s also one of Australia’s more densely populated states, and visitors cultural life and its mind-blowing array of natural wonders.

Broome

Exmouth Ningaloo

Western Australia

Perth Margaret river

Perth and surrounds

Perth, the capital city of Western Australia, combines a big-city vibe with a laid-back seaside atmosphere. Visit the city’s many of the world’s largest urban parks, Kings Park and Botanic Gardens, or soak in some of the 3,000 annual hours of sunshine on one of the city’s 19 pristine beaches. coast of Perth, you can catch a glimpse of migratory humpback whales, explore the 13 shipwrecks lying offshore, and maybe even meet some of the island’s adorable quokkas, which number around 10,000. If you’re in the mood for a more unconventional north of Perth. Here, in addition to the usual water sports, visitors can try sand boarding on Lancelin’s massive dunes.

© Tourism WA

Western Australia

Cowaramup

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© Vasse Felix

© Destination NSW

Lancelin sand dunes

© Tourism Western Australia

© Tourism Western Australia

Near Margaret River

Margaret River The Margaret River region south-west of Perth, which stretches between Cape Naturaliste and Cape Leeuwin, Margaret River Wine Region is home to more than 60

The river itself offers a spectacular range of surf breaks for all levels and types of surfers. If you’d prefer to watch the pros at work, catch the annual Margaret River

© Destination NSW; David Hill

Other attractions near the Margaret River include the Jewel Cave, home of the world’s longest straw

Exmouth & Ningaloo Australia’s lesser-known great coastal reef, Ningaloo, is located 1200 kilometres north of Perth. Ningaloo National Park is considered one of the world’s best locations for viewing migratory whale sharks, and is home to at least 1400 species of marine life, including dolphins, dugongs, rays, sharks and whales. The reef extends for 300km and covers around 300,000ha of marine landscape, which means it’s the largest shoreline-fringing reef on the planet.

Ningaloo’s remote location slows the environmental impact of tourism on the towns to Ningaloo are about 2 days’ drive away, and much of the park can be reliably accessed only by 4WD. If you’re visiting Ningaloo, the nearby town of Exmouth is a good place to stay. Learmonth (Exmouth) Airport sees and provides shuttle services into various towns like Coral Bay. There’s also a Visitor Centre and Turtle Centre in Exmouth, where you can learn more about the area’s natural wonders.

© Destination NSW © Tourism Western Australia

© Tourism Western Australia

© Tourism and Events Queensland / Karen Brook Photography

© Tourism Western Australia © Grahame McConnell; Destination NSW

© Tourism Western Australia © Don Fuchs; Destination NSW

Western Australia

Cathedral Gorge, Purnululu National Park

© Tourism Western Australia

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Echidna Chasm, Bungle Bungle Range

Bungle Bungle Range © Tourism Australia

© Tourism Western Australia © Perisher

Broome & Bungle Bungles

Broome, a town shaped by the pearl industry, has been home to a diverse community of Japanese, Filipino and Malay pearl divers since the 19th century. The town is set amidst a spectacular landscape of white sand and ochre An imposing sight from above, the Bungle Bungles range of gorges and pools shelters a hidden world of wildlife and plants clinging precariously to walls of rock. Explore the narrow chasms and swimming holes on foot with a tour guide, or enter the area on 4WD.

© South Australian Tourism Commission / Matt Nettheim

Renowned for its agricultural produce (like wines) and abundant fresh seafood, South Australia’s wilderness and varied landscape – from arid deserts to sandy beaches and rolling hills – are where you can discover native wildlife (some found nowhere else on earth) as well as breathtaking natural scenery.

SOUTH AUSTRALIA Coober Pedy

Woomera

Port Augusta

Barossa Valley ADELAIDE

Port Lincoln

Kangaroo Island

Seal Bay, Kangaroo

EXPLORING SOUTH AUSTRALIA KANGAROO ISLAND The wildlife playground of South Australia, Kangaroo Island is an incredibly diverse landscape that encompasses desert dunes, coasts, farmland, dramatic cliffs and pristine beaches. Home to Australia’s indigenous wildlife, the land offers protection to populations of native Australian animals, like koalas, kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas and goannas that thrive throughout the island. Disconnected from the mainland, the land remains untouched with more than one-third of the Island declared as Conservation or National Park. Visitors can catch the daily passenger ferries from Adelaide to get to the island.

Quad Bike Tour Riding a quad bike through the 500 acres of open grassland and native bush is the best way to check out the stunning views of Kangaroo Island, including the Southern Ocean. Along the way, you might even get a chance to meet some of the endemic species that might be roaming around.

If you are lucky enough, you might also get a chance to spot the migrating Southern Right Whales from the top of the cliffs during the winter season.

Sandboarding A series of spectacular sand dunes that rise out of the bushland in the centre of the panoramic view from the ridges. Visitors

can feel the soft white sand between the toes while walking on the sand which has been formed over thousands of years from eroded limestone. For the ultimate thrilling experience, grab a sandboard and climb up to the top of the razorback ridges and then slide down the sand dunes of Little Sahara.

Some of the popular tourist destinations on Kangaroo island are Seal Bay with their guided walk amongst the sea lions, Flinders Chase National Park home to Remarkable Rocks, Admirals Arch, and multiple walking trails and camping areas. Little Sahara which has huge sand dunes on the South Coast, and the Kelly Hills Caves system is the main attraction in the Kelly Hills Conservation Park.

taste and purchase some of Australia’s

A world-class wine region, South Australia’s Barossa Valley is a popular destination for wine lovers. Being one of Australia’s oldest wine regions, people have been producing wine there for generations and it is now the main source of employment for many residents. Barossa is a comfortable one hour drive from Adelaide City.

The colourful patchwork of vineyards and villages, dotted with pretty churches and cottages, have inspired many local artists.

With 150 wineries and more than 70 cellar doors, visitors can taste premium wines or even try creating their own custom-made wine.

Winery Tour At Jacob’s Creek Visitor Centre you can

most famous wines, the place has also won a National Tourism Award. The centre offers an outstanding culinary tourism experience with a tempting combination of food and wine, and scenic views of vineyards and hills. Other big brands you can check out include Penfolds and Wolf Blass, as well as a number of boutique wine producers. For an organised route, you can follow the Para Road Wine Path, which is a cross-country trail that links four of Tanunda’s well-known wineries. You can also follow the Butcher, Baker and Winemaker Trail that treads the same paths as the pioneers, where you can sample olive oil, cheeses and wine.

Make Your Own Blend Tour For a unique experience, you can head to Penfolds’ Winemaker’s Laboratory where you can try creating your very own custom-made wine. The interactive experience begins with a tour of the famous winery and learn about its history, led by a wine educator. Then, you will be seated at a workstation where you can try your hand at blending wine from well-known grape strains like Grenache, Shiraz and Mourvedre.

You’ll be given percentages of each variety and allowed three attempts, after which it is bottled, corked and labelled for you to bring home.

South Australia

BAROSSA VALLEY

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© South Australian Tourism Commission / Matt Nettheim

© South Australian Tourism Commission / Matt Nettheim Island

© Tourism Australia / Adam Taylor

PORT LINCOLN OF EYRE PENINSULA Created by ancient volcanoes, Port Lincoln represents true outback Australia. Eyre Peninsula's second largest city set on the shores of Boston Bay, the port is Australia's largest natural harbour.

Producing more than 60% of South Australia’s seafood, the peninsula is also Australia’s Seafood Capital where people in the world. The place also offers an abundance of wildlife such as the sea lions, dolphins, tunas and not to mention the remarkable coastlines which is undoubtedly the main draw.

Swim with Sea Lions Hop on a tour with Adventure Bay Charters who can take you to the pristine Hopkins Island to swim with the sea lions, fondly known as “puppies of the ocean”.

Swimming with the rare and endangered sea creatures is one of the most

life-enhancing experiences. Dive into the water in a wetsuit and within moments, the graceful and gentle mammals will swim near, welcoming your entry to the water.

Diving with Great White Sharks Port Lincoln also offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to swim with the legendary Great White Shark in its natural habitat.

You will have an option to swim with the sharks from the safety of a hardened steel cage, or observe the startling view from the safety of the boat above the water.

Calypso Star Charter takes visitors about 27km to the Neptune Islands where the big sharks (up to 5.5m long) live, and you get to dive in once the sharks are spotted.

Adventure Bay Charters attract the sharks by playing heavy rock music directly into the water. The best seasons to visit is from August to November and January to March each year.

© South Australian Tourism Commission

STUART HIGHWAY AND THE OUTBACK Known as the Explorer’s Way, the Stuart Highway covers over 3000 km, linking Darwin (Northern Territory) with Port Augusta (South Australia). The road was named in honour of John McDouall Stuart Australia from south to north and make it back alive entirely on foot. Even now, driving along the paved road is still an epic challenge. lands, passing through many different landscapes with very few towns in between. Driving across the Highway is an exciting venture into the outback. You will be able to encounter a few towns such as Katherine (Northern Territory), Alice Springs (Northern Territory), Coober Pedy (South Australia), and Woomera (South Australia) where you can stop by to rest. Drivers are advised to get fuel at every truck stop in order to ensure that they have enough to get to the next stop.

COOBER PEDY TOWN

© South Australian Tourism Commission / Neale Winter

Located along the Stuart Highway, Coober Pedy town is referred to as the "opal capital of the world" because of the massive amount of precious opals that are mined there. Many residents live in underground dugouts to escape high temperatures in summer; in this fascinating desert town, hotels, restaurants, bars and even an underground church. Take a visit to the town and explore the incredible opal industry as well as the underground museums, opal shops and art galleries.

© Tourism Australia / Adam Taylor

MOUNTAIN BIKE TOUR ON LOFTY DESCENTS Escapegoat Adventures Bike Tour offers a unique bike ride from the summit of Mount Lofty Descent all the way down to Adelaide.

The journey includes a visit to Adelaide’s acclaimed Cleland Wildlife Park – home to a wide range of native animals and winery tours towards McLaren Vale along the Kidman Trail by bike. Riding through the stunning bush, you will be able to spot koalas, kangaroos and emus in their native environment. The trip takes about 3 hours and the riding is mainly on gentle downhill

© Wild Bush Luxury / Randy Larcombe

Events of Interest December/January 26 - 01 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race (NSW & TAS)

The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race starts on Boxing Day in Sydney and ends in Hobart, Tasmania. The 1,170 km race is considered to be one of the toughest top three offshore yacht races in the world. www.rolexsydneyhobart.com

December 31 New Years Eve

Different, unique and amazing celebrations take place across Australia to welcome in the New Year.

July 06

Quicksilver Pro Gold Coast (QLD)

Darwin Lions Beer Can Regatta (NT)

The Quiksilver Pro and Roxy Pro showcase some of the world’s best surfers competing at the Superbank and Snapper Rocks on the Gold Coast. www.quiksilverlive.com/progoldcoast

The Beer Can Regatta includes home made boats of cans sometimes with fire hoses and top secret weaponry. www.beercanregatta.org.au

March 13 - 16 Formula 1 Australia Grand Prix (VIC) The Formula 1™ Australia Grand Prix is set in the stunning surrounds of Albert Park, Melbourne. www.grandprix.com.au

January 09 - 26

Rip Curl Pro (VIC)

Sydney Festival (NSW)

The world’s best male and female surfers compete as part of the ASP World Championship Tour. www.live.ripcurl.com

January 13 - 26 Australia Open (VIC)

April 10 - 23 The Sydney Royal Easter Show combines Australian agriculture, education and entertainment attracting some 900,000 visitors. www.eastershow.com.au

February 12 - 23

May/June 23 - 09

Surfest (NSW)

Vivid Sydney (NSW)

Australia’s largest surfing festival attracting the worlds best surfers. www.surfest.com

Immersive light installations and projections that transform certain buildings and landmarks into an outdoor night-time canvass of art.

Held alongside local and international music performers and an ideas exchange forum featuring public talks and debates. www.vividsydney.com

Adelaide Fringe (SA) The Adelaide Fringe is an international annual multi-arts festival, which takes place in venues across Adelaide. www.adelaidefringe.com.au

February/March 28 - 16 Adelaide Festival (SA) The Adelaide Festival is one of the world’s great arts festivals. www.adelaidefestival.com.au

August 07 - 24 Darwin Festival (NT) The Darwin Festival features local and touring performances and events including outdoor concerts, workshops, theatre, dance music, comedy and cabaret, film and visual arts. www.darwinfestival.org.au

August 16 Henley-on-Todd Regatta (NT) An Alice Springs – rowing regatta held in August in the bone dry bed of the Todd River. Teams race “boats” of various creative design through the deep coarse sand. www.henleyontodd.com.au

Sydney Royal Easter Show (NSW)

The best tennis players fight it out for one of the biggest Grand Slam® titles – the Australian Open. www.australianopen.com

February/March 14 - 16

2013/2014

March TBA

April 16 - 27 The Sydney Festival is a celebration of dance, theatre, visual arts, opera and music from the classic to hip hop. www.sydneyfestival.org.au

AUSTRALIA

June 04 - 15

September 05 - 06 The Birdsville Races (QLD) First held in 1882 the world famous Outback carnival includes a 12-race program and prize money in excess of AUD$110,000. www.birdsvilleraces.com

October TBA Crave Sydney International Food Festival (NSW) The Crave Sydney International Food Festival features a month long program of extraordinary food events in unique locations across Sydney and regional NSW. www.cravesydney.com

Sydney Film Festival (NSW)

October TBA

The Sydney Film Festival is one of the world’s longest-running 12-day film festivals. www.sff.org.au

Melbourne Festival (VIC) A leading arts festivals and Australia’s premier celebration of art and culture from around the world. www.melbournefestival.com.au

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