Discover Ipswich in Brisbane’s backyard
For those wishing they could feel a million miles away, without having to travel far – Ipswich, right in Brisbane’s backyard, could very well be the answer.
Take the time to discover previously unexplored places where sleep under the stars, taste locally made brews, walk a llama and dance in light adorned laneways.
One of the region’s top tourist destinations, Spicers Hidden Vale, is only about one hour from Brisbane. For those who have never been, then now’s the time to check it out. The warm country welcome and attention to detail visitors receive from staff is second to none.
The hatted restaurant is serving up the gorgeous paddock to plate fare. Explore the
sprawling 12,000 acre property with tours or on the back of a mountain bike in the adjacent Hidden Vale Adventure Park.
While a hot air balloon flight is on most people’s bucket list, how many have actually booked one with the region’s only balloon flight company, Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights? Book in to enjoy a tranquil flight over Ipswich and surrounding countryside and a hot breakfast afterwards. It’s the city’s best rated tour.
Come and meet the animals at the Ewe Nique Hobby Farm or taken a llama for a walk with The Llama Farm? There’s animal experiences that will delight adults and children alike.
For those who enjoy country hospitality
head along the Warrego Highway to the town of Marburg, book a hanging tiipii picnic or a bell tent and sit amongst the trees at The Soul Nook Collective. Explore the antiques stores and enjoy pub grub at the hotel.
Set aside some time in the day to stop in at Stony Creek Brewing and meet Jack the new head brewer and co-owner of the brewpub. Grab a paddle and taste the exciting brews on offer, and stay for music on Saturday nights in the laneway.
While exploring, take time stop in at Imbibis Craft Distillery on Fridays to meet Jason, a former wine maker who now creates award winning gin, brandy and rum.
And for those who love olives and lime
products head out to Watercress Creek Olives and Limes to meet Bernie a fourth- generation farmer who offers up tours and picnics in the grove.
With 8500ha of conservation reserves and parks and two rivers there is plenty of opportunity for hiking, kayaking, mountain biking and camping.
Another hidden gem is Hardings Paddock, a bush camp set amongst gorgeous trees with hiking trails to explore. Here the stars go on forever allowing visitors time to enjoy a simple breath of fresh air while feeling a million miles away.
To learn more order or download a copy of the Ipswich Visitor Guide today at www. discoveripswich.com.au/magazine.
Come
Family fun at the Llama Farm.
Now this is camping. Hardings Paddock Campground.
How’s the serenity of a hot air balloon flight.
The Soul Nook Collective.
A hidden gem. Spicers Hidden Vale.
Take a look at your own backyard
My dad often said you don’t always appreciate where you live until you leave it.
Looking out of the window across the Tweed Valley at the mountains that make up the Scenic Rim I think he was probably right – though I’d add the addendum – or you see it through someone else’s eyes.
I hadn’t thought much about the Scenic Rim lately – too busy. But then putting this issue of Travel Today together changed all that and I realised the little break away I desperately need could pretty much just there. Right on my doorstep is a region that other’s dream of visiting, that international publications write about and yet here it is an hour or so away – sitting quietly out my windows. I look at it every day and yet I don’t see it often.
The same could be said for the Scenic Rim’s near neighbour Ipswich. Not quite out my window but not that far away either.
For many of us, it’s somewhere we drive past to get somewhere else – on the way to Brisbane or out to the Downs or down to the Coast – rather than the destination itself.
It’s pretty much in our backyard which is maybe why we don’t appreciate what it has to offer – and it may surprise you to know that it offers a lot.
The region is somewhere you can sleep under the stars, taste locally made brews, walk
EDITORIAL
Tania Phillips Journalist
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ADVERTISING Andrew Guiver Group General Manager
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Michelle Gibson Advertising Sales Executive
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a llama and dance in light adorned laneways. You can take quiet balloon rides over Ipswich and the surrounding countryside or ride mountain bike through the aptly named Hidden Vale Adventure Park. There is plenty to do, to see and experience.
It’s not just a thoroughfare but a destination in it’s own right.
Of course, if you prescribe to the “leave it to love it” theory then this issue we have stories aimed at helping you leave it all behind for a little while.
Stories that take you on cruises to far flung lands and safaris through Africa, visits to family distant places like in Greenland with stops in Iceland. There are stories for those thinking of quick jaunts to Sydney or Holdfast Bay in South Australia or even just other regions around Queensland – all offering a chance to get away to truly appreciate what you have in the back yard.
Because living in the regions we do around Queensland (or close by in my case) there is plenty to see, to visit and to love if you look it through new eyes and attitudes, with a new perspective.
Tania Phillips
Editorial Coordinator Travel Today
CONTENTS
The Allure of Stradbroke PAGE 5 5
Muster up the Ultimate experience PAGE 6
Travel the Scenic Rim PAGE 8 8
Spectacular Clydesdales PAGE 9
Twenty five reasons PAGE 10 10
Suspend time on Lady Elliot PAGES 12-13
The Viking Difference PAGES 14-15
Iceland: an unrivalled vista PAGE 16
Hey Trump I got here first PAGE 17
The Holiday of a Lifetime PAGE 18 18
Seven days to wind down PAGE 20
What’s new in stunning Sydney PAGE 22 22
Discover unspoiled charm PAGE 23
Magical Glenelg and Holdfast PAGE 24 24
Experience the Adventure PAGE 25
Festivals You’ll Love PAGE 26
Adventure of a Lifetime PAGE 27
Checking out caravans for your next travel
With the surge in domestic travel, caravanning has become an increasingly popular holiday choice for Australians. Local caravan manufacturers are reporting a spike in queries and web searches during recent weeks for guidance on what to buy and which features to prioritise.
Given the bewildering range of van sizes, styles, layouts and construction materials on the market, it’s understandable that first-time buyers are seeking expert advice for deciding which type and model is suitable for their specific needs, including the terrain where they intend to travel.
Award-winning local manufacturer Crusader Caravans has seen a doubling in its
website traffic particularly during the recent Christmas holiday break, with thousands researching caravan purchasing.
Attracting the highest number of website hits and downloads has been Crusader Caravans’ Buyer’s Guide and Checklist. Since launching in July 2020, the guide and checklist publications have been downloaded over 40,000 times, with an average of 200 new downloads per week.
Crusader Caravans Founder and CEO Serge Valentino explained that Australians are increasingly seeking guidance on caravan purchases to ensure they attain the best long-term value and protection.
“Buying a caravan is a significant invest-
ment so it’s not a decision people take lightly. There’s a lot to consider – budget, size needs, features, their car’s towing capacity and whether they’re planning on going off-road. Many buyers worry about making the wrong choice and want to ensure they’re getting real value and a product that will last,” Serge said.
“We created the Buyer’s Guide as an objective and comprehensive overview for caravan buyers, including a one-page checklist of the top 10 questions every buyer should ask before making a purchase – it’s a resource that helps buyers separate great caravan manufacturers from the rest.
“With 22 years of caravan manufacturing experience it’s fair to say we know a thing or
two about caravans. We want to ensure every buyer has all the information they need to make the right purchase decision for them –whether that’s a Crusader van or not.
“The Crusader Caravans’ guide is designed to equip Australians with the knowledge and confidence needed to make a well-informed purchase, outlining important notes such as whether the manufacturer complies with the RVSA (Road Vehicle Safety Act).”
To access Crusader Caravans’ Buyer’s Guide and Checklist, go to crusadercaravans.com.au/what-to-lookfor-when-buying-a-caravan/
Sometimes while you might have to leave it to love it - there is often something amazing just outside your window. (Supplied, Tania Phillips)
The Allure of Stradbroke
Allure Stradbroke Resort is tucked into the foothills of Point Lookout on the north-eastern tip of North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah).
The resort is the perfect place to leave the hustle and bustle behind and settle into island time.
Enjoy simple, fun, and carefree days staying in Allure’s range of architecturally designed, fully self-contained beach shacks and villas.
Situated directly across the road from Home Beach, and only a leisurely stroll away from the coastal village of Point Lookout, Allure is the perfect base for exploring Stradbroke.
Hayley and Rod lead a small, but amazing team of hospitality stars, who are always around to make guests feel welcome and looked after.
Stradbroke Island is a sub-tropical island located 30km southeast of Brisbane, Queensland, and is the world’s second-largest sand island. A collage of sunshine, sand, surf, and Quandamooka culture, Stradbroke is the perfect spot for weekend visits or longer stays.
The island vibe is chilled and welcoming; visitors to Stradbroke, can do as much or as little as they like.
While there try out the exciting range of adventures and discoveries that await among the white sandy beaches, crystal clear ocean waters, and natural, freshwater lakes. Choose from cultural tours, art galleries, fishing, surfing, diving, kayaking, snorkelling, stand-up paddleboarding, cycling, golfing, four-wheel driving, whale watching, sandboarding, yoga, and so much more.
Renowned as one of the best land-based whale watching sites on the east coast of Australia, Point Lookout is the perfect spot to see whales from the land.
Schedule a visit to Stradbroke between May and November to spot these beautiful creatures as they migrate north to breed and then return to the cooler waters of Antarctica. There is also have a bird’s eye view of other marine life, including turtles, schools of fish, playful dolphins, and in season, manta rays, frolicking in the waves
For more information follow them @allurestradbrokeresort on Facebook and Instagram. To get in touch call 07) 3415 0000 or email reservations@allurestradbroke.com.au
The beautiful Allure Resort on North Stradbroke (Minjerribah)
Allure features a range of architecturally designed, fully self-contained beach shacks and villas.
A beautiful base to explore the island from. Get lost in the allure of Stradbroke.
Enjoy the chilled island vibe of the place the locals call Straddie.
Muster up the ultimate experience
Immerse in the Ultimate Music and Camping Experience at the Gympie Muster Gympie Music Muster is the perfect festival for fans of great music, fun times, and camping under the stars.
Famous for its good vibe and friendly atmosphere, this event could be a must-see.
Mark the calendars because from 28 –31 August, the Gympie Music Muster will transform the Amamoor Forest into a bustling camping city. Established in 1982 the Muster has become a prominent fundraising event, its core mission remains unchanged: to raise funds for those in need within the community. Over the years, the Muster has raised over $21 million for various charities and community groups.
The Muster offers something for everyone
- set amidst the picturesque Amamoor Creek State Forest, the Gympie Music Muster is a cherished Australian tradition. With more than 140 performers, the lineup features country, blues, roots, and heritage rock music. To see the 2025 lineup, head to the website.
Beyond the music, the festival includes workshops, dancing, bush poets, and the excitement of bull riding and horsemanship shows in the Snowy River Muster Arena. Bring the family—kids 12 and under are free, and discounted tickets are available for teens.
Camping and accommodation is a big part of the must in fact camping at the Muster is an essential part of the experience. The venue is nestled in the scenic Amamoor Creek State
Forest and so a festival ticket includes camping. Four-day ticket holders can enjoy free camping for up to nine nights starting from 23rd August 2025.
For those without camping gear, the on-site Muster Banjo’s Tent Motel can be booked for up to five nights during the festival and includes breakfast. Alternatively, accommodation can be booked in the town of Gympie, with a bus running to the festival site over the four days.
Muster goers can extend their stay in the Gympie region in fact when planning a trip to the Gympie Muster, consider staying a while longer to explore the region. Rainbow Beach has been ranked as one of Australia’s best beaches, and four-wheel drive enthusiasts can
access Double Island Point and Inskip Point, the southern gateway to K’Gari, the world’s largest sand island.
The sheltered coast and safe waters of Tin Can Bay are perfect for sailing, kayaking, fishing, and feeding dolphins. Explore the Mary Valley’s country villages of Imbil, Kandanga, Dagun, and Amamoor—the home of the Gympie Music Muster.
To the west, Kilkivan and Goomeri are quiet villages with unique charm, perfect stops on the way to the South Burnett Wine Region. The Sunshine Coast, Gympie’s neighbouring region to the south, offers many attractions. Noosa is only an hour’s drive from the Gympie Muster festival site.
Tickets are on sale now. For all the info, visit www.muster.com.au.
Camping in the forest is what makes the Gympie Muster such a unique experience.
Travel the Scenic Rim
Now there’s even more reason to visit Queensland’s famous Scenic Rim – the region has just achieved ECO Destination Certification with Ecotourism Australia, a result of meeting global best-practice standards in ecotourism, responsible travel and environmental conservation.
As the first destination to achieve certification in 2025, the Scenic Rim becomes only the 12th in Australia to earn this prestigious recognition.
Just an hour from Brisbane and the Gold Coast, the Scenic Rim is celebrated for its UNESCO World Heritage Gondwana rainforests, dramatic landscapes and natural beauty, six National Parks, patchworks of rich paddocks, award-winning local produce and progressive farming, and warm hospitality.
Visitors to the Scenic Rim region benefit from the services of over a dozen tourism operators who are Ecotourism Certified with Ecotourism Australia, including Araucaria Ecotours, Binna Burra Lodge, Horizon Guides, Leisure Solutions, Mt Barney Lodge, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, ParkTours, Southern Cross Tours, Spicers Scenic Rim Trail, Tamborine Mountain Glow Worm Caves, Tamborine Mountain Distillery, Tamborine Mountain Glades, Thunderbird Park and the TreeTop Challenge.
Here’s how to travel the incredible Scenic Rim sustainably:
Sustainable travel is more than simply choosing a destination and the activities to do while there — it’s also about how to travel and what to pack, and taking the time to slow down to fully appreciate and learn about the place visited.
So, for those keen to wander wisely, tread lightly and make a positive impact, here’s how to enjoy a more sustainable journey within the Scenic Rim:
Engage in ecotourism-certified activities:
To nature enthusiasts and adventurists, the Scenic Rim is nirvana, but you don’t have to have a VIP Card at Anaconda to experience this region, there’s options galore. These ecotourism certified experience providers celebrate the natural beauty of the region and educate on how to preserve these delicate ecosystems.
Explore the ancient rainforests and natural landscapes of the region with Southern Cross Tours for a day, with tour guides sharing the history, culture and stories of the places and unique natural environments throughout. Take a tour with Leisure Solutions or learn about the region’s fantastic native wildlife including koalas, birds and platypus on a tour with wildlife experts, Araucaria Ecotours or experience the magic of glow worms at Tamborine Mountain’s Glow Worm Caves.
Families can get their share of outdoor excitement with minimal environmental impact at Thunderbird Park, which has embedded sustainable practices throughout their operations. Home to the Tree Top Challenge, an awesome high ropes course and Australia’s largest zipline, there’s hours of entertainment
across 112ha on Tamborine Mountain.
If hiking through the wilderness is a must, lace up the boots with local legends ParkTours and Horizon Guides and join a guided bush walk through ancient Gondwana rainforests. Or take the challenge to scale cliffs in Mount Barney National Park with the help of the ecotourism-certified rock climbing guides at Mt Barney Lodge, also there, join Kruze Summers, a local Ugarapul man, on the Yarriba Dreaming First Nations immersion experience.
For those who want a little luxe, Spicers Scenic Rim Trail offer multi-night adventures through lush rainforests and along the Great Dividing Range, ending each day with gourmet meals and a peaceful night in a private eco-cabin.
Travelling sustainably also means supporting local businesses, and the Scenic Rim is brimming with fantastic spots to tame a rumbling tummy and relieve a thirst by eating and drinking hyper-local; from charming roadside farm gates to a stop in at ecotourism-certified, Tamborine Mountain Distillery to taste their internationally-awarded liqueurs and spirits.
Stay in eco-friendly accommodation: Visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to sustainable stays in the Scenic Rim. With more than a dozen tourism businesses holding Ecotourism Australia certification in the region, there’s no shortage of places to sleep soundly knowing your stay supports the environment.
At Binna Burra Lodge, stay in the gorgeous sky lodge apartment, a cozy tiny wild house, or even a glamping tent, all cradled high in the sub-tropical rainforest of Lamington National Park, 800m above sea level.
Another famous eco-icon is O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat, a mountaintop haven that’s welcomed guests for nearly a century. From pitching a tent to staying in a modern villa with a spa overlooking the valley, or booking an eco-cabin at Pat’s Farm, there’s the perfect blend of comfort to soothe tired muscles from a day of hiking.
Famed fellow eco-stay, Mt Barney Lodge in Mount Barney National Park is home to plenty of activities like rock climbing, abseiling, bushwalks, mountain expeditions, and navigation
courses that both kids and adults can immerse themselves in.
Find the perfect sustainable night’s stay at Tamborine Mountain Glades, with their Hillside Rooms, Self-Contained Lodges, Woodlands Glamping Tents and Vista Suites offering stunning views with a touch of style.
For a truly secluded and luxe experience, Wander leaves no trace with its with its B-Corp certified off-grid eco-pod accommodation overlooking Lake Wyaralong and the vineyards of The Overflow Estate 1895. WanderPods prove less is more and use solar energy, rainwater harvesting, and zero-waste practices to ensure your stay treads lightly on the land. What’s more, they even support the work of Bush Heritage Australia and the Scenic Rim’s Million Trees program to protect and regenerate nearby bushland.
Travel lightly, adventure big and make sure to see the sunrises and the sunsets of the Scenic Rim, as they are the perfect bookends to the wonder withing this incredible region.
For more on where to visit, hike and see: visitscenicrim.com.au
O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat.
Cultural immersion with Yarriba Dreaming at Mt Barney Lodge, Scenic Rim.Tamborine Mt Distillery.
A view from the scenic Rim with Binna Burra with Lisa Groom of Park Tours.
Spectacular Clydesdales
One of Queensland’s most loved events in the Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular, the richest Clydesdale Show in the Southern Hemisphere will this year be held in Beaudesert, taking over the showground 14-15 June.
The move from Boonah, just 40 minutes away, is the first location change in the event’s 13 year history and a result of the growth of the Spectacular, now too big for the Boonah Showgrounds.
Event Director Greta Stanfield said each year the organising team are challenged to keep up with the ever expanding and growing event.
“The brilliant thing is, that here in the Scenic Rim, we have a whole region of amazing towns and grounds, and Beaudesert is a wonderful stage two era for the event, and is still midway between Brisbane and the Gold Coast, plus, there’s increased accommodation and camping spaces, which is great news for both our competitors and our visitors,” she said.
“The facilities at the Beaudesert Showground mean we can grow the event even more, it’s an exciting time.
“It has been very important for us to keep the event in the Scenic Rim region, and we are very excited to partner with the Beaudesert Show Society and the Scenic Rim Regional Council and Tourism and Events Queensland to bring you the best Clydesdale Spectacular event yet”
From tiny Shetland ponies to the towering Shire horses, all Clydesdales great and small are celebrated at the event. Over two days, the grand champions of the breed, known as the Gentle Giants of the horse world, are judged, the heritage of the breed is shared, and the history of the breed in Australia is celebrated.
Giant horses mean giant wins for the region. In 2024 the event generated 11,284 visitor nights, with total overnight expenditure valued at $2,017,506 by Tourism and Events Queensland.
An exciting new event this year is the launch of the World Whip Plaiting Titles,
which will attract the best plaiters in the country and from overseas.
A full schedule of Clydesdale competition will take place as well as rare trades showcased including harness making, blacksmithing, wheelwrights, horse-drawn demonstrations and driving displays, whip plaiting and more in the main arena.
Additional highlights include the Queensland Whip Cracking Championships, World Billy Boiling Championships, working dog displays, Friesian Horse Troupe performances, bush poetry and Lumberjacking.
In tribute to the Scottish descendants who moved to the region and brought with them their beloved Clydesdale, the event includes a
stirring massing of Pipes and Drums, Calling of the Clans, the Clydesdale and Clan class and traditional Scottish caber tossing. There’ll be haggis burgers a whisky bar and Scots are encouraged to attend in their clan kilts.
The Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular will be staged in the middle of the famous Scenic Rim Eat Local Month, creating just another reason to visit, stay and experience.
“Our region owes much to the majestic Clydesdales which played a key role in establishing the Scenic Rim’s incredible agricultural base by clearing vast tracts of land, ploughing the paddocks and bringing in the harvest. While the advent of machinery saw a decline in the breed in the 1960s, the efforts of fan,
breeders and this event committee to preserve and celebrate the 130-year history of these gentle giants here has resulted in the Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular becoming one of Queensland’s most significant events,” said Greta.
Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular 2025
· 14-15 June 2025
· Beaudesert Showgrounds, Albert Street, Beaudesert
· 8am until late both days
More information, accommodation and ticketing detail: www.clydesdalespectacular. com.au
Terry O’Brien and Carmel Clair from Teviot Clydesdales with BIlly, Bobby and Bluey at Beaudesert ready for the 2025 Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular.
Clydesdales Billy, Bluey and Bobby on their new stomping gounds. (Larraine Sathicq: 459964)
MIlla Marrable celebrates the 2025 Scenic Rim Clydesdale Spectacular which will be held in Beaudesert 14-15 June.
Twenty-five reasons to visit Sunshine Coast
Stay
1. Watch the crocs
Australia Zoo’s luxe accommodation, The Crocodile Hunter Lodge, has four new cabins overlooking freshwater crocodiles and turtles in a new state-of-the-art habitat.
2. Family escape
A luxury accommodation set on five acres in Valdora, Yarrabee Place sleeps up to 16 guests across the main house and its two charming cabins.
3. Farm stay expansion
Sixty6 Acres at Woombye is adding caravan and camping sites, heated outdoor plunge pools, fireplaces and firepits.
4. New beachside properties
Bokarina Beach has three new reasons to visit – Zinc Bokarina, Oceanus and Seanna Residences – all with breathtaking oceans views, modern amenities and luxury fittings.
5. Guesthouse restored Halse Lodge Backpackers’ rooms have been restored following a refurbishment of the heritage-listed 1880s guest house.
6. New-look hostel
Palms on Parker (formerly Suncoast Backpackers Lodge) in Maroochydore has had a million-dollar makeover and rebrand.
7. Avani Mooloolaba nears completion
The new 4.5-star Avani Mooloolaba Beach Hotel will feature 180 rooms, a rooftop pool, bar and restaurant.
8. New five-star boost
Construction starts on The Calile Noosa hotel which will feature 153 rooms, 29 suites and four villas on the 2.4-hectare site.
Play
9. Big Pineapple reopens
Once again climb to the top of one of Australia’s biggest tourist attractions and enjoy breathtaking views.
10. New animal encounters
Noosa’s Epic Ocean Adventures has whale watching ocean kayak tours (June-November), and Highland Hideaway Experiences, a new family-run farm in the Gympie region, lets you pat highland cattle, baby sheep, goats and piglets.
11. Get off the beaten track
Sunny Jeeps offers customised off-road adventures to stunning locations that are only accessible by 4WD.
12. Visit a TV set
The Glass House Mountains played backdrop to Stan’s murder mystery series, Black Snow. Check out the picturesque lookouts for yourself.
13. Bush Tucker Garden
There’s a new Bush Tucker experience at Maleny Botanic Gardens & Bird World and a pint-sized micro-Mediterranean donkey, Ziggy. Eat (and drink)
14. Mediterranean menus
The team behind Noosa’s Sum Yung Guys has opened Peli’s, at the Marina in Tewantin, with a modern Mediterranean bistro-style menu.
In Mooloolaba, Casa Restaurant by Casita has Mediterranean-meets-coastal interiors with a simple, share-style menu.
15. Taste of Greece
Lyra Restaurant brings authentic Greek flavours to Ocean Street in Maroochydore.
16. Farm to coffee cup
Glasshouse Plantation’s cafe will begin processing, roasting and serving their own beans that have been grown just metres away.
17. Cider hub
Enjoy a tasting paddle or glass of bubbles while learning about the cider-making process directly from the maker at Sunshine Coast Cider’s new Cider Hub and cellar door at Kunda Park.
18. Newest foodie hotspot Bokarina has a host of new foodie openings, including Stoa Bokarina, Sunday Coffee &
Bagels, Bocca Italian and Wallace & Wood.
19. Asian fusion in Cooroy
Your Mates BowlsPub has rebranded as Crackerjack, and is the Noosa hinterland’s newest hotspot for casual, Asian dining.
20. New rooftop bar
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Maroochydore
CBD, has opened its rooftop bar to the public boasting ocean views and local brews on tap.
21. Australia’s Craft Beer Capital
The Sunshine Coast has welcomed its 26th brewery in Young Giants Brewing, Marcoola. Events
22. The Curated Plate (25 July – 3 August 2025)
23. GourMay Mary Valley (1 -31 May 2025)
24. Noosa Eat & Drink Festival (29 May – 1 June 2025)
25. Horizon Festival (2-11 May 2025)
Kayaking Double Island Point. (Supplied, Credit Visit Sunshine Coast)
Enjoying Highland Hideaway Experiences at Gympie.
Slipstream Brewing Social House Birtinya. The big glow up. The Big Pineapple has been refurbished.
Suspend time on Lady Elliot
By Caroline Vielle
My day trip to Lady Elliot Island was an amazing experience, filled with emotions for the eyes, body and soul.
And the experience starts even before you set foot on the Island itself.
At the Hervey Bay airport, the Lady Elliot Island company has a private lounge, filled with still images, making you feel already immersed in the beauty as you wait expectantly to board the plane.
One of my companions for the day murmured to me that she hadn’t slept all night, such was her excitement for the trip.
The scenic flight was such a highlight. The short 35-minute flight, with pilot Troy, was a total thrill.
Leaving from Hervey Bay allowed us to see views over the Great Sandy Strait and Fraser Island.
Seeing the shapes of the sand bar in the Great Sandy Strait was amazing before being surrounded by blue water for about 20 minutes.
Then, out of nowhere, there she was - Lady Elliot Island, one of the coral cays of the South Barrier Reef.
It was a magnificent sight from the plane, especially as our pilot did a full tour of the island to allow all the passengers to discover her beauty from the air.
The landing was nothing short of exhilarating - and just like that, we were on Lady Elliot Island. After walking across the airstrip, we were treated to a welcome drink and an informational talk, on how to fill our day.
Most of us took possession of our snorkelling gear, towels and locker and got ready to explore the water.
Some of us enjoyed the more relaxed experience of exploring the island.
For my part, I had the privilege of having a look at the accommodation.
A maximum of 90 guests can stay overnight, and it was a most amazing feeling to know that you would fall asleep to the noise of the waves crashing on the outer bank and wake up to the songs of the numerous birds that call Lady Elliot Island home.
Most of the accommodation is situated around 20 metres from the beach, on the west side, facing the lagoon.
The rooms are full of light during the day, with louvres allowing airflow to breeze through the room.
If you are after luxury, the glamping tents are even air-conditioned.
The accommodation can cater to solo travellers, couples and families, with or without private amenities.
I also got an insider’s look at all the innovations and technologies that are happening on the island, such as the water treatment they do to create water using the evaporation technique.
There is even a tour in the afternoon to get more information on how the Island is made sustainable, and if you are interested in ecology technology, this is the tour for you.
Lady Elliot boasts so many different options if you like to walk, are an avid bird watcher, or would love to learn a bit of the island’s history, and what a place to snorkel.
Lonely Planet named Lady Elliot Island the best place in the world to snorkel in 2025 and after my snorkelling experience at Lady Elliot Island, I absolutely agree.
My first experience was with the glass bottom boat.
We went on the East side of the island, which is deeper than the lagoon.
We started the tour by watching the coral
bommies (coral formations) that rest just 50 metres from the shores.
We saw a lot of coral fish, and the coral formation was full of different colours and we were treated with the vision of a black-tip shark.
What a sight.
The previous morning, the crew reported seeing a fever of eagle rays.
Then it was time to start our snorkelling adventures under the guidance of Georgie, a marine biologist who lives and works on Lady Elliot.
It felt like dipping into a deep aquarium with fish everywhere you look, beautiful coral formations, some quite striking in colour or form and then there were the turtles, Their majestic, fluid and soft way of swimming is magnificent to watch - so exhilarating.
I found myself overcome with emotion, both in awe and laughing at the same time. I believe I saw around 10 sea turtles that day, swimming around us.
I got a picture taken while close to one large male green turtle, what a thrill that was, a dream come true.
Clamping Tent, Lady Elliot Island. (Supplied: Ben Andryc)
Reef Walking - Lady Elliot Island (Supplied: Tourism and Events Queensland)
Enjoying the restaurant on Lady Elliot Island. (Supplied: Ben Andryc)
We snorkelled for around an hour, but the time went so fast.
Georgie, our tour guide was very knowledgeable, and her expertise added to the experience, especially if, like me, you want to know more about the animals that inhabit the reef around the Island.
During an enjoyable lunch, it was great to share the stories of our snorkel with fellow visitors while lunching on a scrumptious buffet of entrees, hot and cold main meals and desserts.
The setting for lunch was perfect too, overlooking the lagoon and marveling at the different shades of blue of the water that the overcast weather was treating us to.
A walk around the island was very welcome
after lunch.
From the beach, we saw turtles, sharks, larger fish and even a cowtail stingray in ankle-deep water.
So even if you do not like to get your hair wet, you can still appreciate and experience the wildlife present around the island.
I spent the rest of the afternoon snorkelling, this time in the magnificent lagoon on the west side of the Island.
We were in very shallow water as the low tide was upon us, which made for an exhilarating experience, because we could swim so close to all the little fishes and the corals.
I was stalked the whole time by a small purple Goby fish.
It was amazing to be able to see the smaller fishes of the Great Barrier Reef in their elements and so close without having to dive at all.
After a last look at the lagoon, I got changed in the shared facilities, picked up my belongings that were safely stored all day in my locker, and bid farewell to Lady Elliot with a last flyover.
It was the best snorkelling I have experienced.
The feeling of tranquillity I had on the island stayed with me for several days afterwards and I cannot wait to come back and enjoy this gem of the Great Barrier Reef again. What to bring:
· Sunglasses, hat and sunscreen
· Reef shoes or crocs
· Waterproof bag to go with you on the glass bottom tour
· A change of clothes for lunch
· An underwater camera like a GoPro is a great addition
Lady Elliot Island is 80 km from Bundaberg
· Short 35-to-40-minute flight from Hervey Bay or Bundaberg
· (Other flights from the Gold Coast and Brisbane - Redcliffe)
· Max 100 guests overnight
Caroline meeting the locals.
Coral Gardens,Lady Elliot Island. (Supplied: Tourism and Events Queensland)
The Viking difference
Viking was founded in 1997 and provides destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans and lakes around the world.
Designed for curious travellers with interests in science, history, culture and cuisine, Chairman and CEO of Torstein Hagen often says Viking offers experiences ‘For The Thinking Person’
Viking has more than 450 awards to its name, including being rated number one for Rivers, number one for Oceans and number one for Expeditions by Conde Nast Traveler in the 2023 and 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards.
Viking is also rated a ‘World’s Best’ for rivers, oceans and expeditions by Travel + Leisure. No other travel company has simultaneously received the same honours by both publications.
In the 2024 Best in Cruise Awards, Cruise Critic honoured Viking with seven awards across the Luxury (Ocean), River and Expedition categories including Best Enrichment and Best Spa, an award Viking has won every year since introducing ocean voyages in 2015.
So, what is Viking’s secret and what makes this company stand out from the rest for their guests, peers and critics? What is the Viking Difference?
Viking does not try to be all things to all people. Instead, they focus on delivering meaningful experiences to you, the traveller.
Viking provides culturally enriching journeys where you will discover the world from a rich perspective in a well-designed, safe, luxurious setting with learning opportunities on board and on shore.
Onboard activities are designed for enrichment and renewal with lectures on history and art, cooking demonstrations of regional favourites, menus offering regional cuisine and more.
On shore, guests might accompany the ship’s chef to a local market; go behind the scenes at a famous theatre company; tour a chocolate or car factory; or view a museum’s private collection.
Viking want their guests to feel special which might mean organising an after-hours access to world-class museums to view seldom-seen collections or being a special guest at private homes and palaces not open to just anyone; or attending cultural performances of folklore, ballet and opera to get an insider’s view during these private tours.
Viking provide warm hospitality and go the extra mile for guests ensuring everyone feels at
home on board their ships.
They are so confident they will exceed your expectations that they are the only cruise line to guarantee their award-winning service.
The cruise line offers the best value at sea with no charge for the Nordic Spa, alternate restaurants, laundrette, Wi-Fi or beer and wine at lunch and dinner. It is perhaps what Viking does not have that adds to its charm. On Viking there are no casino’s, no children under 18, no smoking, no waiting in lines, no formal nights, no inside staterooms, no auctions or photography sales and no umbrella drinks.
You will be rejuvenated as you rest a king-size bed with a soft duvet and goose-down pillows where generous closets, plentiful USB ports and
US/EU outlets, plush robes and slippers add to your comfort. Viking’s award-winning bathrooms feature large glass-enclosed showers with easy-tosee controls, premium Freyja toiletries, anti-fog mirrors and heated floors according to Viking interior designer Richard Riviere of Rottet Studio LA.
“The Viking brand is based on an overall feeling of residential modernism and all ships have that character,” he said. “Viking does not do ‘entertainment architecture’ or design that could take away or distract from the true experience of the destination. We also lean heavily into Viking’s Norwegian heritage with spaces that are influenced by Scandinavian style and history.”
Richard said the Viking design is minimalist
Discover Egypt with expert guides
The Viking Difference is apparent when travelling on the culturally rich Pharaohs and Pyramids cruise among the ancient secrets of Egypt amid the welcoming culture of today. Join expert Egyptologists on a tour through Egypt exploring the Temple of Karnak’s 136 soaring pillars and visit Queen Nefertari’s tomb in the Valley of the Queen.
Egyptologist Hanan Elbeih, a thirty-sevenyear veteran in her field with a bachelor’s degree in Archaeology and Egyptology, took the opportunity to join Viking in 2019.
Hanan said sharing the history and culture of Egypt with guests is a great privilege and joy and a way to educate guests about what they are witnessing and experiencing in an interesting way.
She also shares the latest theories about digs, excavations and finds in Egypt, which are very important.
“Viking guests are curious travellers and the itinerary both on board and on shore are designed for those interested in history, culture and cuisine,” she said.
“In addition to the destination-focused itinerary, which includes temples, tombs, museums, pyramids and other activities, interesting lectures and lessons are also involved.”
“This is to increase the guest’s awareness, understanding and knowledge of Egypt while highlighting its customs and traditions from ancient times to the present days to keep them engaged.”
Hanan said one of the shore excursion highlights is the site of Abu Simbel, which she believes is one of the wonders of the ancient world, as well as one of the great wonders of
the modern world because of the way they salvaged the temple from being submerged under the water of Lake Naser.
She included the Valley of the Kings in her highlights because of the vibrant colours, the age and the well-preserved state of the glorious tombs.
“Another highlight is the balloon ride over Luxor’s West Bank, where guests can relax and float gently above this vast open-air mu-
seum, letting their worries drift away with the morning breeze,” she said.
Hanan said she loves working with Viking because they are very organised, appreciative, friendly, supportive and caring to their guests and teams
Viking’s exciting 12-day Pharaohs and Pyramids journey, a roundtrip from the exhilarating capital of Cairo, now offers even more departure dates in 2025 with the arrival
and uses a natural palette and provides so much to be excited about.
There are abundant dining options with eight onboard dining restaurants and cafes. Vikings ocean vessels put the spotlight on fine dining with The Chefs Table, which serves the widest selection of culinary options, including the signature dish, Chairman’s poached salmon. Viking’s alternative restaurants such as Manfredi’s Italian Restaurant, features Italian cuisine and the revolutionary Aquavit Terrace In their judging appraisal Cruise Critic said, “Dining here is a culinary journey, a marriage of cultural enrichment, gastronomic exploration and local cuisine” For additional information, contact Viking on 138 747 or visit www.viking.com.
of their new purpose-built Nile River ships –the Viking Amun and Viking Thoth. To join Hanan on a Viking journey in Egypt, or for additional information on any Viking river cruise, contact Viking on 138 747 or visit www.viking.com
The delight of a Viking cruise along the Nile River at Aswan in southern Egypt.
Viking offer a destination-focused itinerary, which includes temples, tombs, museums, pyramids. Here the The Colossi of Memnon, giant statues that used to guard the tomb of King Amenhotep III
Egyptologist Hanan Elbeih enjoys sharing the history and culture of Egypt with guests. Here Statues at the Temple of Karnak in Luxor
Viking is rated a ‘World’s Best’ for rivers, oceans and expeditions by Travel + Leisure.
The prize winning Nordic Spa aboard Viking ships features a fireplace and is complementary.
The infinity pool is the perfect place to cool down before starting the next book.
The atrium reeks of gentle prosperity where guests feel at home.
The Penthouse Junior Ocean View Suite Stateroom with floor-to-ceiling sliding glass door opening to a full-size veranda.
Trending destinations
It’s time to share a few secrets on the hottest travel spots around the globe from serene shores to ancient wonders of the world in 2025 and beyond.
London, Paris, New York, and Rome are popular destinations that travellers love to visit, but there are many other fascinating places to explore.
Viking has just released its 2025-2027 River Brochure featuring destination-focused and culturally immersive journeys that explore the iconic rivers of Europe, Egypt, Southeast Asia and the USA.
Viking’s river journeys focus on authentic, culturally rich and simply unforgettable experiences docking in the heart of the world’s greatest cities and fairytale villages.
Sail the romantic Danube from Budapest to Regensberg on an eight-day trip visiting charming cities and villages.
Visit Budapest’s Castle District and cross the famous Chain Bridge. Explore Göttweig Abbey, one of Austria’s most revered monastic centres, and make dumplings with Wachau Valley apricots.
Visit historic Salzburg. Spend two days in Vienna and celebrate the city’s musical heritage at a concert featuring works by Mozart and Strauss. With medieval towns, grand cities and stunning scenery, this eight-day journey on the “Blue Danube” is one you are sure to love.
Enjoy Porto, Portugal with its rich maritime past, narrow cobblestone streets and a plethora of UNESCO World Heritage sites. Its passionate wine scene makes it a must-see for travellers wanting to discover the other side of Europe, and Viking provides plenty of time for you to explore the city at your leisure from their river ships, which dock in the heart of Porto.
How does an eight-day round trip from Bordeaux sound?
Imagine taking time to discover the ports, vineyards, farms and forests of Aquitaine, once Europe’s richest kingdom. See Bordeaux’s fountains and cellars. Hunt for truffles in Perigord and create a personal blend of Cognac at the Camus distillery. Savor France’s finest oysters fresh from the bay at Arcachon. Sip Saint-Émilion, Medoc and Sauternes in their own terroir on an eight-day cruise through Bordeaux is a region synonymous with fine wine and finer living. Explore unique places and cultures on the fifteen-day cruise from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City in the magnificent Mekong.
Shop Old Hanoi’s markets. See the Khmer temple complex of Angkor Wat.
Behold the haunting beauty of Ta Prohm
Temple, where jungle vines embrace ancient ruins. Explore Phnom Penh by cycle rickshaw. Discover silk towns, fishing villages, monasteries and local river life. With hotel stays in Hanoi, Siem Reap and Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) bracketing your eight-day Mekong cruise, this cruise tour reveals the beauty and grace of a land we have only begun to know.
One of history’s greatest civilizations emerged along the banks of the Nile. Discover its secrets with Viking as expert Egyptologists take guests from the pyramids of Cairo and the temples of Luxor to the desert outpost of Aswan and beyond.
On Vikings twelve-day Pharaohs and Pyramids roundtrip from Cairo visit Millennia-old treasures in Cairo’s Egyptian Museum, the Great Pyramids of Khufu, Khafre and Menkaure, the mighty Citadel of the Mountain, the sprawling temples of Luxor and Karnak in Luxor, the Tombs of the Valley of the Kings, the remarkably preserved Dendera Temple complex and much more.
Or for those wanting to explore the United States try a cruise from Nashville to Memphis and the Cumberland journey.
Explore more than two centuries of culture and history along the Mississippi. Guests can discover the frontier lives of the Cherokee
people, immerse in rock’n’roll and country music, and savour a southern barbecue or Kentucky’s famous bourbon. Sailings for this voyage are limited to only four departure dates between October 2026 and November 2026.
Viking Australia New Zealand Managing Director Michelle Black said there was no better way to explore the fascinating destinations of the world’s rivers than by sailing their historic waterways on an elegant Viking ship.
“There will be even more opportunities in 2025 for curious travellers to experience these
culturally rich and immersive itineraries as our river fleet expands in Europe, Egypt and Asia,” she said.
For first time travellers wanting to understand what a river voyage is all about, Viking has developed a First Time River Voyage Guide, which serves as an excellent starting point for those new to the world of river cruising. Viking’s 2025-2027 River brochure is available to view online. For additional information, contact Viking on 138 747 (AU) or visit www.viking.com.
Explore the famous spice shops in Aswan, a Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art.
Enjoy the beguiling traditional music known as fado in Porto.
Luxor is home to the famous Karnak and Luxor Temples, as well as the Valley of the Kings and here Lord Porchester manages the camel riding with ease.
Enjoy the Sun Deck day or night with a beverage and new friends.
Discover the secrets of Egypt on a majestic river cruise on the Nile.
Iceland: an unrivalled vista
By Cameron Thompson
Imagine a country in which electrical power is so cheap that cut flowers are grown in gigantic sheds under huge lights 24/7.
In the same place, you can drive off the edge of the American tectonic plate, travel six kilometres and drive up on the Asian tectonic plate.
It’s a place where the entire economy is geared to tourism and where, locals say, that if you get lost in a forest, just stand up and look around.
The place is Iceland, and apart from anything else, it is where the locals have a great sense of humour and know how to make a visitor welcome.
Sharen and I were in Iceland on our way further north back in October.
Our stay was short, but to me the most interesting aspect of tourism isn’t the scenery, the local history, or all the things you read in the brochures. What’s most exciting to me is the clash of cultures. It is the feeling you get when you meet people who have an experience of life that is very much different to your own.
Generally, it’s a buzz - a great feeling (although it wasn’t like that when I visited France back in my 20s). Generally speaking you’re left with vivid memories and a sense that you understand just a little more about the world. (In France I was left with a doberman’s teeth marks on my bum).
Iceland was a whole lot better than that. Out in the National Park, travelling on what the locals call the Great Circle Tour, all that lava and the smell of sulfur reminded me of New Zealand, but the best thing was the humour that came with it.
Sorry, I am getting ahead of myself. Reykjavik is the capital of Iceland and the centre of the Icelandic tourist economy. It is the first place I have been where, from the moment you arrive (at Keflavik airport 40 kms out of town) to the moment you leave, there is always a bus waiting at your hotel door with your name on a list every morning.
One look at Reykjavik and you can see where the dollars are coming from. It has a beautiful main street, Laugavegur Street, in which every second shop sells souvenirs.
And, in case you think that I love Iceland 100 per cent, here is the big negative. It costs a bomb. Every one of the shops charges like Yves St Laurant. And in the buses, every one of those oh-so-friendly drivers knows how to get every last cent out of your wallet. The prices are huge and, let’s be clear, you’re being fleeced.
Still, enjoy the ride. Iceland is like a massive conveyor belt that sucks you up and sends you whirling across the landscape, smiling and paying.
You start at the airport, where you buy a ticket to town, but these people don’t just drop you at the city terminal. You go through the terminal and on the other side is a fleet of smaller buses that takes new arrivals to every hotel in town.
Next day, there are dozens of other buses branching out across the landscape and as a whole, the network is so carefully curated that it seems everyone has the bug. They’re smiling and spending, smiling and spending and it just never seems to stop. I reckon that if we didn’t arrive with a ticket to leave in our pocket, we’d
still be there.
Anyway, our driver on the Great Circle was Thor and he told us how locals are able to harvest power straight from the volcanic vents that dot the landscape. Buy a DIY turbine and you’ve all the power you’d ever need. So why not sell to your neighbours? It’s like everyone is their own Energex.
The Great Circle took us to the spectacular Kerid Volcanic Crater, the Geysir hot springs (a name they say they invented long before the Americans came up with Geyser), the Gulfoss Falls and to the famed Thingvellir National Park, a huge mish mash of exotic scenery that
was a key backdrop to Game of Thrones.
Unfortunately, you’d have to say that in the world of tourism, it’s rare to find an experience that is a genuine match for the hype in the tourism brochures.
Not in this case. Every one of these really is spectacular. The falls, in particular, were jawdropping, but I don’t think I have ever had an experience to match Thingvellir.
The brochure says it was home to the first Parliament in Iceland, but that’s underselling it. Thingvellir is the place where the Asian and American plates are just 6km apart, moving further away at something like an inch a day.
The meetings of local chieftains in the
mass at the edge of the
certainly sounds exotic, but really, it’s small beer when you see what else is on offer. Nearby, huge cascading falls erupt from the stone. The wall itself looks like it was blasted from space to accommodate a strange alien roadway. At the top there is a panorama like something from Jurassic Park. What else can I say? It’s so damn good you forget all about the prices. You forget the overcrowded venues and every other one of the nick-picking criticisms. It really is something special.
tumbled
Asian plate
View from the top of the Perlan Building - a reservoir on the top of a hill in central Reykjavik, now converted as a kind of natural history museum. A great place to go when the weather closes in. (457034)
The superb central cathedral in Reykjavik. It looks somewhat soviet boring in the day, but really blasts off as an attraction at night. (457034)
Gullfoss Falls. They were privately owned and were scheduled for conversion as a hydro electric facility before the daughter of the owner intervened gifting the whole site to the Icelandic people. (457034)
Thor rules the road. (457034)
The spectacular Kerid Crater. You need a licence with explicit permission if you want to fly a drone. (457034)
The wall which borders the Asian tectonic plate at Thingvellir National Park has featured in the Game of Thrones series. (457049)
There are connections to Iceland from across Europe and the USA. (457049)
The Perlan museum features its own rather spacious ice cave. (Not if you suffer claustrophobia). (457034)
Hey Trump, I got there first
By Cameron Thompson
So, be honest. Now that Trump wants to invade Greenland, you’re just a little more curious about the place.
Greenland is an enigma. From any other point on the globe, it is truly remote and has a forbidding reputation. From Australia, the idea of visiting Greenland for a holiday is doubly difficult.
It is almost impossible just to visualise the size and shape of Greenland, because civilisations have had a way of drawing maps and these don’t do it justice.
The most common type of world map is a ‘projection’ developed by Gerardus Mercator. His map makers imagine a cylinder of paper around the equator on which to project the continental shapes from the face of the globe. They’re exact at the equator, but as you head north or south, they become more and more absurd.
On most maps, Greenland’s immense size is grossly misrepresented. It looks to be half the size of Tasmania, but in fact it has more than a quarter of Australia’s land mass.
With 7.7 million square kilometres, we think Australia is sparsely populated with 26 million people, but Greenland, with 2.16 million square kilometres has a total population of 56,000 - just bigger than Bundaberg.
That said, Greenland is a magnificent place.
Sharen and I flew there to see our threeyear-old grandson in October and there was not a day we weren’t stunned by its grandeur and by the harsh lifestyle of the locals.
We fluked it, because the biggest issue about a holiday to Greenland is the fact that extreme winds and even blizzards can blow up out of the blue and if you don’t have good travel insurance, you might find yourself locked in a room eating fish for a week and paying an iceberg-sized mountain of cash to get home.
Still, the weather in our four weeks was perfect. It didn’t even snow.
All around the capital, Nuuk, snowmobiles were sitting out on the piles of boulders that Greenlanders have for a front lawn, waiting unattended for the snow to return.
The name Greenland is a joke, because there is not one tree in all of Greenland. We stayed with my son and his partner in an apartment with an awesome view of a towering bluff of rock and ice near the northern end of Nuuk International airport. It is on the Island of Sodelo, but it dwarfs everything at that end of town and appears much closer, as if it might be approached on foot, with a bit of a hike past the runway threshold.
At 64.1° north and 51.7° west, Nuuk is about as far from Australia as you can get. It is outside the Arctic Circle, but it is at the very south of Greenland and the vast trackless wilderness extends north for another 2000 kilometres or more.
A territory of Denmark and a home to polar bears and reindeer, the vast empty space of Greenland has no roads outside the various settlements.
Greenland is populated by Inuit people who speak an incredibly difficult local dialect in which there are no sentences, just longer words. When I got back home and read that Trump had polled the occupants of Greenland, I had a big laugh, because there would not be a pollster in the world capable of posing questions or getting answers from the vast majority of Greenlanders.
The only folk travelling overland outside
Nuuk or in the few small settlements such as those at Disko Bay or at Kangerlussuak are local hunters on snowmobiles. Of necessity, most Greenlandic settlements are on the coast, and with so many fjords, access by ship is the way to get a better look at the place.
We embarked on an overnight tour of the fjords north of Nuuk aboard the Sarfaq Ittuk, a Greenland supply ferry with a name that does not convert well into English, and were thrilled by what we saw.
Daytime delivered variations on the glacier-carved landscape, with intense colours picked out by the southern sun, bird colonies and small, colourful townships clinging to the cliffs at the water’s edge. All the waterways and bays were full of icebergs and at night, there was the Aurora Borealis. Aboard, we met a couple of other Aussies whose much longer itinerary would take them to the wilds of the
sled-dog country around Ilulissat.
During our month in and around Nuuk, the day and night temperatures were always constant, hovering between -2 and +4, but early on we were hiking past rockpools and later they were sheets of ice.
There were many high points, like a visit to what is known locally as the resort, which would have been about as good as it got when Don Trump Jr made his subsequent visit.
The place has waterfront cabins and one of the most stunning views you could ever hope to see, but as far as luxury is concerned, three stars would pull it up.
For me, the best day was walking with my grandson over those frozen rockpools. We bombed those things with rocks for hours.
and sliding, I made my way out to
only to hear the ice under my feet go ‘crack’ . Now that is a day
will
Slipping
the centre
I
never forget.
Spectacular view from the front step of the resort at Nuuk (456971)
The harbour at Nuuk. In town, it’s best to get about on the local bus (three different routes) or by taxi. (456967)
Nuuk’s brand new International airport. It opened for jet aircraft after we left, but when our prop plane arrived, we couldn’t find an unlocked door to get us off the tarmac. (456967)
One of several small settlements in the fjords north of Nuuk. Greenlanders love their boats and head north from Nuuk to fish and shoot, using cabins like these as a base. (456967)
Son Fletcher, his partner Heidi and grandson Eik settle in with Sharen for lunch at the resort, Nuuk. (456972)
Grandson Eik is enthusiastic about the local playgrounds. But a couple of weeks after we took this pic, most had disappeared under two metres of snow. (456968)
There are strange sights at every turn. (456967)
OUT OF AFRICA
The holiday of a lifetime
By Neil Playford
Book an African holiday with Hosted Holidays and enjoy the holiday of a lifetime.
Meet an experienced host and fellow travellers in Brisbane and embark upon an exciting journey from there as a group to South Africa.
Hosted Holidays have been successfully operating African tours for more ten years now. This knowledge and experience, combined with the use of an expert South African tour partner, means travellers can rest assured that every detail has been thoughtfully considered to ensure that they can relax and enjoy what Africa has to offer. And it has a lot.
The adventure starts in the stunning city of Cape Town.
The views from the summit of Table Mountain on a cloudless day are spectacular, as is the scenery along the Cape Peninsula, heading for the Cape of Good Hope.
Indulge in the local wines of the Western Cape before starting animal viewing with baboons and the cute African Penguins.
Next, it is on to Namibia, one of the world’s least densely populated countries.
The tour starts in the cool climate of Swakopmund, with a cruise on the wildlife rich harbour at Walvis Bay getting up close with the local seals and pelicans, as well as having the opportunity to sight whales.
Time is allowed to enjoy optional tours to see the local desert scenery on a guided quad bike tour and take a scenic flight to explore the magnificent sand dunes at Sossusvlei.
From there travel inland towards the dry and dusty roads of Etosha National Park. Across three days, take morning and afternoon game drives and are hopefully fortunate enough to spot the elusive Rhino, as well as the guaranteed large herds of elephant and varied species of antelope the park is known for.
the Boma Dinner and Drum Show.
The waterhole at Okaukeujo is a wildlife spectacular and certainly one of the highlights of the trip.
The two nights finish on the banks of the Okavango River at Popa Falls and further game viewing in Mahango Game Reserve.
Next travel across the Caprivi Strip, leaving Namibia to visit Chobe National Park in Botswana. Chobe offers some of the best elephant viewing available, with extensive hippopotamus populations in the river and stunning sunsets on the afternoon game cruises. Then it is onto Zimbabwe, and Victoria Falls.
Walking through the National Park gives a wide variety of viewpoints of the stunning falls, but the views from the “Flight of the Angels” helicopter trip are truly spectacular.
Enjoy a relaxing sunset cruise on the upper Zambezi and a night of entertainment at
The last five nights of this amazing trip are spent back in South Africa, continuing the safari theme in the Greater Kruger area. A full day is spent on safari inside Kruger National Park itself.
Then its time to enjoy two full days of luxury in a five-star all-inclusive private game reserve, including four open vehicle game drives.
This is a wonderful way to conclude the trip, as the private reserves allow off-road driving to ensure getting up close to the unique wildlife for a memorable safari experience.
From there it is back to Johannesburg for a final night farewelling new friends made on the trip before leaving with wonderful memories of Africa.
Neil Playford from Travel Associates Mountain Creek and Caloundra call 1300 667 603.
The famous Victoria Falls Water Falls, Matabeleland.Elephant families at the waters edge. flight.
A herd of zebra graze the Savannah. (Supplied, Shutterstock)
AFRICAN ADVENTURE
24 DAYS – 30TH MAY - 22ND JUNE 2026 – FROM $21,995 *
INCLUSIONS & HIGHLIGHTS
• Visit the magnificent Victoria Falls, including the “Flight of the Angels” helicopter tour
• Search for the Big 5 in Etosha, Kruger and Chobe National Parks
• Experience a Luxury Private Game Reserve near Kruger National Park
• Enjoy Table Mountain and the stunning scenery of the Cape of Good Hope
• Indulge in the food and wine of the Western Cape Wine Region
• Return economy class airfares from Brisbane to Cape Town and Johannesburg to Brisbane
• 21 nights hotel/lodge/safari camp accommodation with private bathrooms
• Services of an experienced Tour Host travelling with the group from Brisbane
ANTARCTICA & SOUTH AMERICA EXPLORER
27 DAYS – 28TH JAN-23RD FEB 2026 – FROM $27,995 *
INCLUSIONS & HIGHLIGHTS
• Return economy class airfares between Brisbane to Santiago
• Internal economy class airfares within South America as per the itinerary
• 1 night accommodation at a Sydney airport hotel
• 10 nights onboard Hurtigruten MS Fridtjof Nansen to Antarctica from Ushuaia
• 14 nights 4-5 star accommodation within South America – Santiago, Bariloche, Iguazu, Buenos Aires
• Local English-speaking guide throughout the tour
• Sightseeing as specified in the itinerary
• Meals as specified in the itinerary
• Gratuities, tips and porterage
• All visa costs for Australian passport holders
• Services of an experienced Tour Host travelling with the group from Brisbane
Seven days to wind down
By Lee McCarthy
We had seven days to wind down and relax on a holiday for a friends sixtieth and our considerations were finance, health, comfort and purpose so
we chose a seven day P&O Cruise Encounter cruise to the islands.
It was as welcome as it was surprising and offered a chance to relax after a busy couple of years and the money was right at $1700 for a two-bed cabin with a balcony
I enjoyed the pool and spa areas to read and listen to podcasts and meet some wonderful new people.
The other ladies loved to do a lot of walking, join in on a lot of activities and keep busy and meet similar people with the same interests.
We each had a single bed which was extremely comfortable, as were the fluffy pillows, crispy linen sheets and light doonas.
With the abundance of daily activities, nightly shows and decadent seating across the entire ship, the opportunity to engage with others while reading, eating and swimming your way across the Pacific is effortless.
Be organised so you can make the most of everything on offer but also be you. Don’t race around because you think that’s what you should do. You have a week. Do what you want when you want and how you want.
The ‘P&O Goodtimes Magazine’ is popped into your door pocket every evening for the next day and it is four pages of what to do, where to do it along with a ‘Note from the Bridge’ , meaning you decide on the type of holiday you want.
You may choose morning trivia, bingo, earring making, daily stretches, yoga or gym, meditation, seminars, cards or great shows along with a gig and food guide for the next day.
Download the P&O App before you leave and get familiar with the floor layouts, so you are orientated as soon as you board.
It also highlights daily activities, event times, deck layout, opening times and menus and a chat option to text friends with your plans or location for meet ups.
We booked the 5.30pm time slot and were booked into the three free restaurants the Waterfront, Angelo’s and Dragon Ladyon alternate nights which was just perfect. We could still enjoy a show after dinner and not sleep on a full stomach.
The food, service and the staff on the ship were a ten out of ten. Even without dining at the specialty restaurant we had a three-course meal every night and I personally enjoyed every single bit of it. It is a matter of preference, but I loved not cooking and exploring the many food options which changed regularly so I never had the same dish twice – except the berry fruit crumble with vanilla ice cream as it was exceptional. I don’t drink alcohol, so I didn’t buy any of
Breakfast at the Waterfront Restaurant - the meals and service were
the alcohol or mocktail packages, but I took a quality water bottle and filled it regularly at the Pantry Food Court.
We received a $125 onboard credit per person when we booked, and I only spent another $100 and that included a bracelet, so it is easy to just enjoy what is included in your trip price.
I did purchase a few coffees at The New Zealand Ice Creamery, but I also took some green tea and Nescafe sachets and ordered boiling water in my room for a night time treat after dinner.
They also were happy to deliver ice in an ice bucket for icy cold drinks in your room.
I enjoyed a 5am coffee machine latte at The Pantry which was open all day and night for beverages. I also chose a quiet table inside or
by the pool at times for breakfast and lunch as it offered lots of protein, vegetables, fruit, pancakes and sweet options which changed daily.
I packed lightly and only took a travel skin care pack from Herbal Infusion Laboratory as well as one of their natural lip balms, a perfume oil and travel deodorant which fitted in the small breathable bag supplied.
P&O have mastered the embarkation and disembarkation process which was surprisingly easy and well-rehearsed and could give lessons to many airlines.
My advice is don’t be anxious and don’t overpack. Just go and enjoy the break from reality. I left the ship healthier and much more relaxed than when I arrived.
Without spending an extra cent, the cruise is enjoyable and comfortable and only the
most jaded will find fault. To try out a cruise, I would recommend the four-night Whitsundays cruise from $688 per person (based on twin share).
For further information visit www.carnival. com.au.
NON-NEGOTIABLES BOX
· Togs, sarong, cream, hat, thongs
· Earbuds, downloaded books and podcasts
· Comfortable cool clothes
· Tote Bag
· Water Bottle
· Warm scarf – it has multiple uses
· Chargers, basic skincare and basic makeup. (We had a charger on our bedside lights)
· Medicines -gastro stop, Ibuprofen/Panadol and sea sickness tabs just in case.
· Some Australian dollars to tip the room attendants
The White Party was one of the themes events on board with passengers getting into the spiritA balcony room offered fresh air, privacy and morning and evening vista’s across the ocean
The obligatory ‘sail away’ party was the perfect start to the cruise
Cooking shows, comedy and bingo were held in the impressive theatre aboard P & O Encounter
superb
What’s new in stunning Sydney
By Kylie Mitchell-Smith PR/ TRAVEL WRITER/PODCASTER
www.travellingsenorita.com
It’s fair to say Sydney is aesthetically one of the most beautiful cities in the world, with its flashy harbour, vast waterways, old world charm and striking architecture.
On a recent weekender away, we uncovered the latest trends sweeping Sydney and fabulous new places to go.
Capella Hotel hails from Singapore and it’s their first foray into Australia.
They’ve taken over one of the city’s oldest and most desirable buildings (formerly the Department of Education). Then there’s Percy a neighbourhood Spanish tapas bar underneath the historic Woolstores building in Pyrmont, now a styled as one of Accor’s 17 - Handwritten Hotels in the world (the Handwritten Collection offers a variety of curated hotels that are so distinct it is like a Handwritten note according to Accor).
Walking around the city’s outskirts we find hidden gems, like Spice Alley in Chippendale - a street hawker style food precinct along with Chowder Bay, a tranquil inlet on the North side of the Bridge, home to L’Heritage French Bistro and Cafe Le Mar- a French style cafe that’s popped up on the shoreline.
Chowder Bay is located at the base of Mosman in the Headland National Park and is a popular spot for families and foodies alike, with historical buildings, bush backdrop and dreamy harbour views. L’Heritage French bistro takes pride of place in the historic house. There’s a beautifully decadent menu and so we try the Twice Baked Gruyere Souffle and Caramelised Onion- oh so French.
Back in the centre of the city, we indulge in a delicious high tea at Aperture in the foyer of the Capella Hotel, set amongst a supersized garden wall, with ephemeral flowers hanging from above. This is followed by a sublime full moon treatment at Auriga, the hotels rooftop spa, overlooking a Roman inspired pool - formerly an art gallery.
We stay in Pyrmont, an urban neighbourhood just across the way from Darling Harbour. The newly appointed Hotel Woodstore 1888 is the ideal choice for a boutique stay, far enough away from the city buzz, but close enough to walk, The rooms are generous in size, kitted out with modern touches that complement the original steel and timber facade.
We wander from one Spanish bar to another, Percy serves up traditional dishes, such as Anchovies Gildas and Jamon Serrano washed down with a Rioja Tempranillo. Mercado Restaurant is tastefully hidden down a laneway off George Street - affordable set menus burst with Spanish flavours. (Hot off the press Jam Record Bar around the lanewayMerivale’s latest - is all about vinyl, cocktails and Yakatori’s.)
Our final leg of the Sydney and the City tour, takes us up George Street to the iconic Strand Arcade for a spot of boutique shopping. We catch a city tram to Spice Alley, Chippendale, where Asian infused laneways are abuzz with students from the nearby universities-it’s a happening area, as gentrified as it is casual.
Heading back to our hotel we stop off at the fabulous W Sydney (opened late 2023) for a sundowner, billed as ‘Ahead of the Curve’ it’s a commanding building with mirror façade, between the main arterial and the harbour.
There’s always something moving and
shaking in Sydney town, with a flurry of new hotel and restaurant openings, the city clearly doesn’t rest on its good looks alone.
Spice Alley
L’Heritage PLAY- Darling Harbour
Strand Arcade
Chowder Bay
Hotel Woolstore 1888 Hotel
Capella Hotel
Discover unspoiled charm
Nestled halfway between Sydney and Brisbane, the Nambucca Valley is a subtropical paradise renowned for its stunning natural beauty and warm climate. This hidden gem offers a unique blend of river, beach, and hinterland, making it a true natural wonder.
Explore 23 Kilometres of Pristine Coastline Enjoy the tranquility of uncrowded beaches like Scott’s Head, Nambucca Heads, and Valla Beach. With crystal-clear waterways and lush tropical rainforests, the Nambucca Valley is
perfect for fishing, surfing, water sports, birdwatching, and outdoor adventures.
Nature and Wildlife The coastal stretch between Valla Beach, Nambucca Heads, and Scott’s Head is a biodiversity hotspot, teeming with wildlife and diverse flora and fauna. Take in the breathtaking scenery from the Pacific Ocean to the Great Dividing Range, and don’t miss the annual humpback whale migration from May to October.
Cultural Experiences and Attractions The
Nambucca Valley boasts a thriving art and culture scene, with live music at local pubs and performances at the historic Bowraville Theatre. Explore the region’s rich history through fascinating collections and photographs at local museums. Leave your mark at the iconic V Wall, an outdoor gallery where you can paint a rock and leave a message.
Scenic Drives and Quaint Villages As you drive through the valley, witness the spectacular scenery from various lookouts. Visit
the quaint village of Taylors Arm, famous for its Pub with No Beer, and explore the heritage village of Bowraville and the river town of Macksville.
A Perfect Destination for All Whether you’re seeking outdoor adventure, cultural experiences, superb swimming beaches, or a relaxing getaway, the Nambucca Valley has it all. With its unique blend of natural beauty, perfect climate, and small-town charm, this subtropical paradise is waiting to be discovered.
Experience the Nambucca Valley
The Undiscovered Coast
Discover vast, expansive beaches and hidden gems. Nambucca Valley is the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. golden beaches, stunning walking trails, thrilling water sports - there’s something for everyone.
Discover breathtaking views, local cuisine, and a vibrant arts scene, all set in a serene natural paradise. From fishing and kayaking to relaxing by the ocean, there’s no shortage of activities. Plus, a variety of accommodations ensures a comfortable stay for every traveller.
Make Nambucca Valley your next getaway—where nature, adventure, and culture come together for the ultimate Aussie experience.
Get away from it all and take in the beauty of the stunning Nambucca Valley.
HOLDFAST
Magical Glenelg and Holdfast
By Tania Phillips and City of Holdfast Bay Council
There is something rather magical about Glenelg.
There aren’t a lot of places where you can jump on a tram to catch a show or shop in the city or go collect supplies from the ultimate in foodie lovers markets and then come back and watch the sun go down on the beach before heading out to be spoilt for choice eating a little later and slower and the myriad of cafes and restaurants.
So it’s little wonder Glenelg is one of Adelaide’s favourite coastal destinations.
Sitting within the City of Holdfast Bay council area it is renown for it’s wide beach, stunning sunsets, rich heritage, entertainment, charming hotels, bustling shops and myriad of sidewalk cafes (name a cuisine and you are very likely to find it on a stroll along Jetty Road).
Just 20 minutes’ drive from the city, and 10 minutes from Adelaide Airport, Glenelg is a fabulous place during a visit to the South Australian capital.
A place to do as little or as much as you want.
Kick back and relax or explore the beach and coastal walking tracks, jump on the tram for a 30 minute trip into the heart of the city or for those with a car - use it as basecamp to explore the wider Adelaide area – a quick trip up to the Adelaide hills, to the charming Hahndorf, the under-rated wine region of McLarenvale or out to Victor Harbour and even a day trip up to the Barossa and Clare Valleys.
Glenelg has a rich history as spanning thousands of years and the collective history, which forms part of the Tiati Wangkanthi Kumangka (Truth-Telling Together) exhibition in the Bay Discovery Centre social history museum, explores the stories of the traditional owners and custodians, the Kaurna people, European settlement and our coastal identities.
The Bay Discovery Centre is home to a Visitor Information Outlet and is staffed by wonderful volunteers who have excellent local knowledge – and access to all the maps and brochures needed.
Grab a Glenelg to Seacliff Coastal Walk map and explore the 7km journey along a pristine coastline – with more than 20 suggested coffee stops along the way.
Or pick up a Glenelg or Brighton Stay and Play map to explore the best of the Jetty roads, at Glenelg and Brighton.
There is also an assortment of self-guided history walks that take in historical landmarks and mansions from Glenelg along to Kingston Park.
Why not plan a visit around one of the 300 events they host?
Enjoy the state’s best seafood, at the annual Sea to Shore Glenelg Seafood Festival, while overlooking the beach, or bring the family along the state’s biggest celebration of ice cream at the Glenelg Ice Cream Festival held in January.
New Year’s Eve celebrations always go off with a bang plus they host the state’s biggest outdoor sculpture exhibition at Brighton Beach every summer.
Visit in February and see hundreds of Marilyn Monroe lookalikes take to the water en masse in what has become the iconic Marilyn Jetty Swim fundraising event.
But year round there are tonnes of activities to keep the kids entertained including The Beachouse, which boasts waterslides, mini golf, bumper boats, two levels of arcade games and an indoor play gym for younger kids and has been a bit of a lifesaver on numerous trips to visit the family with small rambunctious children.
Outside there are plenty of great play spaces and large reserves within walking distance of Glenelg Beach, including the Glenelg Foreshore and nearby Wigley Reserve play spaces.
That’s the nice thing about Adelaide there are plenty of great parks with a wide range of play equipment for free family fun for littlies who have just been on a long car journey or plane ride and need to burn off energy.
There is nothing nicer than taking a picnic lunch, grabbing takeaway fish and chips (Adelaide’s Oysters and fish and chips are a cut above) and letting the kids run wild and free in adventure playgrounds.
For a relaxed experience trace Glenelg’s rich history in the galleries and museums, or maybe enjoy many self-walking tours on offer.
Foodies love Holdfast Bay for casual dining, relaxed cafes or trendy bars – including the European-inspired Moseley Beach Club which is right on the sand at Glenelg Beach.
In summer because of the long days, it’s ok to eat late and take it slowly savouring your food of choice in the dying light of a balmy summer evening (options are many and varied).
For those looking for an elevated dining experience, the Marina Pier, Adelaide’s premier waterfront, drinking and dining destination also offers plenty of choice.
For a quiet bite to eat, head to Jetty Road
Brighton or enjoy pub dining with absolute beachfront views at the Seacliff Beach Hotel. Further along the coastline is the newest cafe, Nest Kiosk, which overlooks Kingston Park beach – with the Coast Path the only thing separating it from the beach – it offers speciality coffee, beachside views and local wines with all day breakfast and lunch and sunset dining every Saturday throughout summer. Not that Glenelg is just a summer destination. It has something to offer all year round. In fact, winter is one of the nicest times to enjoy the area (and a chance to get all rugged up and enjoy the cool).
There are plenty of choices for that winter staycations; from a luxury stay in a five-star suite with beach views, hiring a house or apartment by the beach or staying in a cabin or caravan at the Brighton Beachfront Holiday Park (which is right next to Nest kiosk). There is accommodation that will suit any budget.
Watching the sun sink into the water with a small crowd. It’s almost a communal experience in summer. (Tania Phillips: 462579)
Looking down Jetty Road, Glenelg waiting for the next tram. (Tania Phillips: 462579)
Christmas in Glenelg.
A summer walk along the beach front from Glenelg.
The beautiful Holdfast Bay townhall right on the beach.
Exploring the beaches and walks around Holdfast Bay.
The avenue of palms leading down to the beach in Jetty Road.
Experience the adventure
By Lee McCarthy
Rainbow Beach in Queensland’s south east caters to a diverse group of visitors from regional locals, beach goers, surfers and 4WD enthusiasts, through to young couples, families and retirees.
Visitors arrive from within the South East Queensland drive market, the Queensland outback, Brisbane and many discerning overseas travellers now consider Rainbow Beach a significant tourism destination.
While in the past visitors would typically arrive seeking an isolated and quiet beachside holiday, the term adventure tourism now sits squarely at its door.
Many now seek skydiving, helicopter flights, skydiving, surfing lessons, jet skiing, fishing charters, hiking, shark diving, bare foot bowling and sailboarding adventures while on holiday.
As there is a wide range of accommodation options to suit any budget from affordable camping through to those seeking luxury and comfort and a holiday in style, all travellers are catered for.
Cashed up university educated backpackers arrive daily to take local tag-along trips to K’gari from the town as well as family beach vehicles loaded with supplies for a week of camping on the beaches or in holiday houses on the island.
With Inskip Point in Rainbow Beach the most popular take off point for the island due to the instant thrill of 4WD beach driving, the town is now busy all year round.
Many extended families enjoy holidays with friends and relations making it an annual pilgrimage with many big holiday homes on offer.
Locals say they are now seeing more childless weekend travellers seek more activity, have more disposable income and like to enjoy coffee and meals in the many restaurants and cafes in the town.
The region supports those who want to get off the beaten path, get back to nature and enjoy the wide range of nature activities within five minutes of the main street.
There are many events including fishing competitions with six figure prize pools, nationally recognised music festivals, monthly markets, surfing competitions and surf carnivals on the patrolled beaches.
If it’s self-care you desire then you can enjoy yoga, Pilates, massage, hair and nail care, a work out at the gymnasium, some laps at the twenty-five-metre pool or bring the girls for a retreat!
While some activities are family-based others can be experienced as a sole traveller and Rainbow Beach has now joined the Indulgence Market.
While in town drop into Gardiner’s Tackle World Rainbow Beach. With over two hundred and fifty, five-star reviews on Google, they have earned the reputation they richly deserve as one of the country’s top fishing outfitters and advisers.
Family owned and independently operated out of Rainbow Beach, Queensland by Drew Gardiner and wife Catherine, the team offer expert advice via phone, email and instore.
Formerly known as Gardiner Fisheries and now with the buying power of Tackle World, Drew said they offer fresh bait, a huge range
of quality tackle, expert fishing advice, and an extensive online shop that delivers Australiawide.
Drew said, “We stock Queensland freshest bait and the highest quality tackle and are the inshore and offshore specialists with many years of experience in commercial fishing.”
“We have over one hundred years of combined experience and sell only quality products that have been trialled and tested, and we express ship Australia wide.”
He said, “If we wouldn’t use it, we don’t sell it!”
“We have over 50,000 products in stock, and they are ready for next-day dispatch, or you can come into our store in Rainbow Beach for one-on-one service.”
“We’re not like other tackle stores. We’re a unique place where amateur, commercial and competition fishing is seamlessly rolled into one and we cater to all skill levels.
We organise and manage various fishing
competitions throughout the year and support others across the region.
For more information contact Drew and the team by phone 0404 853 232, Email info@ tackleworldrainbow.com.au or find them www.facebook.com/rainbowbeachbait
Rainbow Beach Helicopters have been operating at Rainbow Beach for nearly ten incredible years flying over the stunning coastline which has been the backdrop to countless unforgettable moments.
From heart-warming marriage proposals to lively children’s birthdays and milestone 90th birthday celebrations, owners Glen and Diana Cruickshank say they have been privileged to share in the joy of our passengers.
“Our helicopter and crew have witnessed romantic anniversaries and dreamy honeymoons, hosting travellers from around the globe.
“The abundance of marine life, including whales, our resident dugongs, turtles, sharks, and dolphins highlight the pristine health of our environment.
Through floods and search and rescue missions, Rainbow Beach Helicopters have kept cruise ships entertained, supported local organisations and each year get to spend quality time with Santa when he comes to Rainbow.
“In our nearly ten years at Rainbow Beach, we’ve been truly blessed to share countless enjoyable, funny, and original experiences with our passengers.”
“One recent highlight was an extraordinary once-in-a-lifetime thrill when an F18 jet engaged in training manoeuvres, flew right under us while we were showing our customers beautiful Eli Creek.”
This exhilarating encounter became a standout moment for both pilot Glen and their customers.
“As we reflect on the many memories created, we’re grateful for the friendships formed and the joyous individuals who’ve embraced life in a fun and exciting way.”
“Moving forward, we’re eager to continue crafting unforgettable moments along this breathtaking coastline, ensuring each journey with us remains a unique and thrilling adventure.”
For further information on this exciting adventure go to www.rainbowbeachhelicopters.com.au
COOLOOLA COAST
FLIGHTS FROM OM
Drew has the right gear and all the good ideas at the newly renovated store in Rainbow Beach. Gardiner’s Tackle World Rainbow Beach is fully stocked and will send to you across Australia.
For nearly ten years Glen and Dianne Cruikshank have been operating Rainbow Beach Helicopters.
Double Island Point at Rainbow Beach is a pristine wonderland and Epic Ocean Adventures take paddling tours to explore dolphins and turtles in the wild.
The ride of your life with Rainbow Beach Helicopters flying over the majestic Rainbow Beach in Queensland.
Explore the jewel of the Southern Great Barrier Reef
With its pristine beaches,
Agnes Water is
FESTIVALS
Email us to make your booking reservations@agneswaterbeachclub.com.au 07 4974 7355 | www.agneswaterbeachclub.com.au
3 Agnes St, Agnes
Offering unique private and small group charters.
Comfortable and safe ocean vessel.
Experience the magnificent world of dolphins off the Noosa coast.
Listen live to dolphins with an onboard hydrophone.
Record dolphins’ songs to take home, forever.
Catering for all ages.
Longtime Noosa locals, hosts Albie and Peppie share a lifetime of experience with boats, the ocean and marine mammals. They are conducting dolphin research with USC.
Festivals you’ll love
Love a festival?
Here are four you may never have heard of. Wall to Wall art
After a hugely successful introduction to the City of Kingston council area in Victoria last year, the street-art movement that’s rejuvenating cities across the globe will once again bring an explosion of creativity and culture on 5 and 6 April.
Curated by the award-winning street art collective Juddy Roller, this street festival will see incredible artists transform more walls into large-scale murals over the weekend-long event.
Along with the artists and their works, this festival will showcase local businesses with live music, gourmet food, tours, tasting, demonstrations, artists talks and lots of family friendly activities. We are also thrilled to welcome Little Birdie Market to the event!
When the festival wraps up, these works will become part of the self-guided art trail that celebrates and showcases the thriving creative scene in Mordi Village and the City of Kingston.
The City of Kingston is in the south-eastern suburbs of Melbourne, its northern boundary lying approximately 15 km from the Melbourne city centre along the north-eastern shorelines of Port Phillip. More information via the City of Kingston website A Festival of Light
Parrtjima – A Festival in Light has unveiled its full program for the milestone 10th edition, set to illuminate Alice Springs (Mparntwe) from 4–13 April 2025.
As the only Aboriginal light festival of its kind, Parrtjima 2025 will showcase the works of more than 20 First Nations artists across six major installations, alongside more than 100 performers and special guests spanning music, comedy, art, workshops, talks and more.
· What: Parrtjima – A Festival in Light
· When: 4-13 April 2025
· Where: Alice Springs Desert Park
· More info: parrtjimaaustralia.com.au
Bathurst Winter Festival
The annual Bathurst Winter Festival is an event that came to life in 2015 as part of celebrations marking the bicentenary of Governor Lachlan Macquarie’s proclamation of Bathurst as a town. Since 2015, the festival has become a hallmark celebration on NSW’s calendar of events and is growing each year - proving winter really is the best season!
The festival extends across sixteen days of the NSW winter school holidays with the businesses and residents of Bathurst embracing winter, adding activities to the program of events, decorating their shop fronts and homes, and creating a colourful carnival of welcome.
Stunning illuminations projected on some of Bathurst’s historic buildings have been a part of the festival from the very beginning, showcasing historic scenes, lighting up the town and bringing community together to acknowledge and celebrate all aspects of the Bathurst Region - people, place, heritage, culture, past, present and future.
The Bathurst Winter Festival is back for 2025 and will be held from 5 to 20 July.
Australian Festival of Chamber Music
One of the world’s most distinguished musicians in Clarinet virtuoso Michael Collins, leads the talent lineup for the 2025 Australian Festival of Chamber Music (AFCM) in Townsville-Gurambilbarra, the fourth under Artistic Director Jack Liebeck. In addition, six world premieres will be performed, the most this event has ever staged in its 34 years.
This year, from 25 July to 2 August, a total of 36 extraordinary musicians including 11 international artists, two making their Australian debut, 13 artists making their AFCM debuts and three ensembles, will travel to TownsvilleGurambilbarra for what has become one of the most famous chamber music events in the world.
The free, all-ages event will debut four new dazzling installations this year, featuring a diverse mix of emerging and established artists. Visitors can look forward to immersive experiences, each offering fresh artistic perspectives to the festival’s ever-evolving creative landscape.
For 10 magical nights on Arrernte Country, Parrtjima will bring the world’s oldest living culture to life with captivating light displays and modern technology, all set against the star-studded skies of Central Australia and the awe-inspiring, 300-million-year-old Tjoritja/ MacDonnell Ranges.
“This year an incredible SIX world premieres and an Australian premiere will be staged, plus a deep dive into some of classical music’s greatest feuds,” Artistic Director Jack Liebeck said.
“ I’m excited to introduce a host of AFCM debutants and young musicians as well as favourite returning artists. Want know more?
· Australian Festival of Chamber Music: 25 July – 2 August
· Tickets and more information: afcm.com.au
Bathurst Winter Festival is on again.
ROAD WARRIOR
Adventure of a lifetime
By Amelia Olsen
I’m not a thrill seeker - I’m an adventurer.
The difference is I likes to test herself. A dare to do better and be better. It has a cause, a destination, a purpose.
‘The Long Ride Home’ is a self-challenge on many levels.
Once a year I join a ‘bikie gang; a bunch of bearded old blokes who are absolute gentlemen.
I’ve ridden motorbikes with the Black Dog Riders (established in 2009) for about six years.
Riding with this group is not a race and it’s also not a tour. It’s a charity ride and everyone is a volunteer which means you help wherever you can.
Since the loss of my husband, I participate in an annual ride with other people who support the charity which is a campaign to increase awareness around depression and suicide prevention. But this year, I had a bit more time on a study break from my work, so I signed up for a big lap of the country.
Fifteen thousand kilometres in a month sounds like a lot, it is, especially on two wheels.
Everyone rides for a reason, whether we have loved, looked after or lost someone to the black dog of depression, it’s what brings us all together.
To quote our Queensland ride coordinator, Michael Young, “Each kilometre we ride represents a step towards breaking the silence surrounding mental health.”
With every engine roar, we’re igniting conversations in towns and communities across the country, because no one should ride through life’s toughest moments alone.”
Together we’re not just raining awareness, we’re offering hope and building a network of support that stretches from coast to coast.”
Every handshake, every wave, and every donation fuels this mission to ensure no one is left behind.”
Talking to people in pubs and cafes, refuelling or resting, everyone had a story… everyone seems to have lost someone…suicide is a tough topic…but when a bunch of bikers roll into town, it gets attention, and it’s not too tough to talk.
To be a witness to interactions between people and how pleased they are that we made it to their town, was overwhelmingly good.
We don’t deal in mental health advice, we re-direct people to services. No one knows what to do after the loss of a loved one, but people in towns like Tennant Creek and Wilcannia said, “Thanks for coming to our town, no one comes here!” It was clear that our ride around the country gave both help and hope. As for my bike, well, I’m not sure if men
name their motorbikes, but my 2017 pearl white ninja 650 is called, ‘Mighty Mouse!’ And that, she is.
An unlikely tour bike in comparison to the Harleys, Triumphs, Indians and BMWs, my little Kawasaki didn’t miss a beat.”You know as the only lady rider, that you’ve impressed the hell out of the men when you packed one bag for a month-long trip!
We twelve riders from the Queensland contingent travelled anticlockwise on ‘The Long Ride Home’ . Our destination was Fremantle to meet up with approximately 200 riders from across the nation on the same mission as us.
It took us five days to get out of Queensland, but it certainly was a huge sense of achievement to take a photo opportunity under the sign at the Northern Territory border.
Scheduled rest days were a godsend. After our stop in Katherine, a dozen riders from the Territory joined us for a couple of days. Which meant making new friends and riding in a bigger group.
Out of Broome, the group split again. Half of the Territory riders travelled down the inland route and the other half became honorary Queenslanders on our ride down the rugged and stunningly
At different times we stopped at tourist destinations, like the iconic Red Dog at Dampier, The Pinnacles and the giant Galah at Kimba, notably half way across Australia.
Everyone asks, “What’s your favourite part?”
Well, the Kimberly in the Northwest of Western Australia always speaks to my soul. My son is also there, so he drove in from his Station to have dinner with me and meet my comrades.
The West Coast had so many secret spots and I felt like this was a scouting mission to go back again later with a loved one and enjoy the stark and striking serenity.
The Nullarbor is an ever-changing landscape and, on a motorbike, it’s impressive… but on a ride like this…it’s the test, the challenge, the satisfaction of overcoming adversi-
ty…conquering the quest…and it’s sharing the stories with those you made memories with… helping each other. Getting life on a gauge of what’s important, processing the past so you can forge ahead into the future.
On our ride around the country at a cracking pace, we chased the white line to make a mile on the tour of coffee shops and truck stops, big rocks and road signs…all for a reason…on a campaign to talk to people about The Black Dog…on the Long Ride Home. For more information on the ride head to blackdogride.org.au.
Amelia and the riders take a break at the Iconic Daly Waters Pub in the Northern Territory.Adventurer
Amelia Olsen with her 2017 pearl white Ninja 650 she rode around Australia during the Black Dog Ride. (Amelia Olsen)
The riders arrive at the NSW border safe and sound af ter an epic ride around Australia for the Black Dog Ride.
Amelia with Red Dog at the entrance to the Pilbara town Dampier.
Luxury Cunard Voyage from Singapore to Sydney.
Hong Kong seamlessly blends Eastern traditions and Western modernity. The city’s iconic skyline, studded with futuristic skyscrapers, forms a stunning contrast to ancient temples and vibrant markets.
Your holiday includes
Full-Board Cruise
25 Nights | 20 February 2026 | Prices fr $7,299pp
Enjoy a two-night stay in Singapore before embarking the newest addition to Cunard’s fleet, Queen Anne, for the voyage to Sydney.
From the Supertrees of Gardens by the Bay to the cultural intrigue of Chinatown, Singapore remains one of the most fascinating destinations in Southeast Asia. Discover the island-state’s beautiful botanical gardens and colonial landmarks during a two-night hotel stay ahead of a 23-night voyage on board Queen Anne as she sails to Sydney.
The newest member of the Cunard fleet, Queen Anne promises everything that makes a Cunard cruise so special, from Gala Evenings to afternoon teas and enriching guest lectures. Enjoy a night in port in Hong Kong before sailing to Manila and onwards to Darwin. The sunshine of Queensland beckons next, from Airlie Beach to Brisbane, before your cruise culminates with a night in port in Sydney.
23 night full-board cruise on board the BRAND-NEW Queen Anne
Visiting: Singapore, Hong Kong (overnight in port), Manila, Bitung, Darwin, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sydney (overnight in port)
The brand-new Queen Anne is a luxurious cruise liner offering opulent accommodations, fine dining, and exquisite service, promising an unforgettable voyage of elegance and indulgence on the high seas.
Complimentary Hotel Stay
2 night four-star hotel stay in Singapore at the PARKROYAL on Beach Road with breakfast
Complimentary Outbound Flight, Taxes & Transfers
Singapore, Hong Kong (overnight in port), Manila, Bitung, Darwin, Airlie Beach, Brisbane, Sydney (overnight in port)