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2 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
IE AT OL
Bus Interchange Ferry Wharf Light Rail Interchange Train Interchange
20 mins Circular Quay
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AUSSIE
GUIDE & MAP Getting Around
10 22 36
Where to Begin 5 Finding Your Way 6 Transport Maps 8 Buses, Ferries & Trains 9 What’s On 10 Bondi 12 Manly 13 Kings Cross 14 Blue Mountains 20 Western Sydney 21 Byron Bay 22 By Train to NSW 45 Features Sydney Harbour 15 Adventure – Skydiving 17 Education 23 Queensland – from Gold Coast to Cape Trib 27 Northern Territory 37 Western Australia 39 South Australia 41 Victoria 43
Travel Maps Australia Pty Ltd, have been producing tourist maps and guides of Sydney since 1993. This Guide is distributed FREE in over 500 hotels, best value accommodations, transport hubs and international colleges in Sydney.
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WHERE TO BEGIN? SYDNEY
younger than the Rocks, is an entertainment and retail quarter. Here you will find Cockle Bay Wharf, Sydney Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, WILDlife Sydney Zoo and Sydney Tower EYE + Skywalk. Harbourside has an excellent range of cafes, bars, restaurants and retail shops. South of Darling Harbour is Chinatown, but just before that is the excellent ‘Ming Dynasty styled’ Chinese Garden of Friendship. Chinatown has excellent dining and shopping options including Paddy’s Markets – open Wednesday to Sunday. For more information regarding what’s on in Sydney, go to p10 – 11 of this guide.
Most must-do attractions are located in the city centre - or around the world-class harbour. Australia’s two most identified icons are at Circular Quay; Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. From the Quay you can also catch a ferry to Manly, Taronga Zoo or Luna Park. Between the Quay and the Bridge is the Rocks Precinct, Sydney’s oldest European settlement. The Rocks Discovery Museum is a good place to learn more about this area. Nearby Sydney Harbour YHA offers an excellent archaeological dig and the Australian Hotel some excellent local refreshments. Darling Harbour, much
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FINDING YOUR WAY
alike. While further south, the Chinese Garden of Friendship leads you into the Chinese district or “Chinatown” with another of Sydney’s icons at its heart – Paddy’s Markets; a great place to shop. Sydney City North The Rocks and Circular Quay are the ‘colonial historic’ heart of Sydney and are great places to start exploring. Drop into the Customs House to kick off your day. You’ll also find the international icons of Sydney; the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.
Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs Sydney is synonymous with Bondi Beach and that’s hardly surprising as you’ll find this famous beach is just a 30 minute bus ride from the city centre. Alternatively you can catch a train to Bondi Junction, but remember you are still quite a walk to the beach. Kings Cross, Surry Hills, and Darlinghurst are all great stopping off points and are also some of the best places for going out.
Sydney City South Darling Harbour is now an entertainment and event mecca for Sydneysider’s and tourists 6 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
Sydney’s Northside Easily accessible by ferry or bus, Manly Beach is just 30 mins
from the city centre. Famous for its surf school and surf gear shopping. Come to Manly for a great day out. Also over here is Kirribilli and Kirribilli House – the official Sydney residence of the Australian Prime Minister. Sydney’s South Sydney’s Inner West The Inner West’s most famous suburbs are Glebe and Balmain, known for their bohemian lifestyle, markets, and arts. But two more are fast catching up; Leichhardt with its strong Italian feel and Rozelle with its cool local vibe and excellent indigenous art gallery.
Historically Redfern and Eveleigh have a troubled reputation but times are changing and arts, culture, and local festivities are bringing this bygone area to life. There is also some excellent outlet (discount) shopping further south at Green Square and Alexandria.
Sydney’s Northern Beaches Palm Beach (is Summer Bay of Home & Away fame) is at the very top, but you will pass more than a dozen others on the way, so stop by and see a few. Sydney’s northern beaches are truly world-class, try Dee Why, Mona Vale or Avalon. Or, like so many of Sydney’s own, move there!
Sydney’s Southern Beaches From renowned surfing and surfer beach Maroubra to the most southerly beach in Sydney accessible by train, Cronulla, Sydney’s southern beaches are where you are more likely to meet locals than tourists.
Flemington and Haymarket
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BUSES, FERRIES & TRAINS Buses, ferries, trains and light rail can get you everywhere you need to go in Sydney. Tickets are available from Transport Shops. These are conveniently located at Wynyard, Circular Quay, Town Hall and Railway Square (near Central) stations. Tickets are also available from newsagents, Australia Post Shops and transport kiosks. Opal Card
Quay via George Street in both directions. This service runs every 10 minutes, weekdays: 9.30am to 3.30pm, with a late finish of 9pm on Thursday evenings. Weekends: 9.00am to 6.00pm. Intercity Coaches Sydney Coach Terminal (02 9281 9366) sells tickets for Greyhound, Australia Wide Coaches, Firefly, Premier and Port Stephen’s Coaches. They are located in Eddy Avenue. Ferries The majority of ferries operate from Circular Quay. You can also reach Darling Harbour, Balmain, Taronga Zoo, Manly and Watsons Bay by ferry. Ferry info: 131 500. Trains
The Opal card is an easy, convenient way of paying for your travel on public transport in Sydney. It is implemented for all Sydney Trains and NSW TrainLink Intercity services and Sydney Ferries services. You can acquire an Opal card: • online at opal.com.au • at an Opal retailer, look for the Opal symbol • or by phoning 13 67 25 (13OPAL). FREE City Bus – Route 555 The Free Sydney CBD Shuttle service operates from Central Station to Circular
There are numerous lines into the City and the main train stations are Central, Town Hall and Wynyard. Use the train map opposite to see which line you need. Sydney Trains runs regular services to Newcastle, Woollongong and Katoomba (Blue Mountains), these are also on the Sydney network and are priced accordingly. Train info: 131 500. Taxis Taxis in Sydney operate 24 hours a day and are very efficient. Use cash to save money on credit card fees. Premier Cabs: 13 10 17. issuu.com/sydneyguideandmap 9
WHAT’S ON IN & AROUND SYDNEY
Daily and year round Royal Botanic Gardens
Explore the world of plants and the history of Sydney’s magnificent Royal Botanic Garden with one of our knowledgeable guides. Tours depart from the Palm Grove Centre Mon Fri at 10:30am. The tour takes 1.5 hrs. rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au
5 September - 31 October Anything Goes at the SOH
A great opportunity to see a show in the world-famous Sydney Opera House. Featuring an all-star cast including, Caroline O’Connor & Todd McKenney, this is a hilarious tale of topsy-turvy relationships, mistaken identities and, foiled plots. sydneyoperahouse.com
12 Sept - 11 Oct Floriade 2015, Canberra
Australia’s biggest celebration of Spring, an iconic event showcasing one million flowers in bloom throughout Canberra’s Commonwealth Park. Entry is free. See it all from the ground or contact Canberra Balloons - 02 6249 8660 balloonaloftcanberra.com.au
17 September - 20 September Sydney Underground Film Festival
The festival programs unique, quality independent films that transgress the status quo and challenge conservative conventions. suff.com.au
10 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
18 September - 11 October Art and About Sydney
Art & About Sydney is a collaborative arts festival where every street, laneway, building site, intersection, and thoroughfare is a canvas for creation and storytelling. artandabout.com.au
25 September - 5 October Manly Jazz Festival
Music festivals come and go but Manly Jazz remains as an iconic event for Manly and greater Sydney. Manly Jazz has a rich history of dishing up some of the best live jazz performances from across Australia and around the world. manly.nsw.gov.au
October Good Food Month
Be sure to check out part of Australia’s largest food festival. This month-long celebration is here to showcase what is most exciting about our world-class food and wine scene. sydney.goodfoodmonth.com
until 3 October AFL Premiership
Australian Rules Football is our country’s most popular sport. Whether you grab tickets to a game at Sydney ground or watch it on TV in a local pub, it is a must-see for any visiting sports fan. tickets.nrl.com
16 November - 18 November Parramasala
Parramasala is a free, public celebration of the diverse and rich cultures which contribute to Sydney’s rich social fabric – a heady and colourful mix of music, dance, parade, theatre, food, film and heritage. parramasala.com
8 November Newtown Festival
Newtown Festival is the neighbourhood’s flagship event, encapsulating the spirit of Sydney’s most vibrant creative, conscientious, and inclusive community. The festival showcases the best local and national music, arts, entertainment, and food. newtownfestival.org
until 17 October Sydney Spring Racing Carnival
Sydney Spring Horse Racing is set to offer an unmissable season with some of the biggest names in Australasian racing returning to Sydney’s tracks. australianturfclub.com.au
22 October - 8 November Sculpture by the Sea
Come see the spectacular Bondi to Tamarama coastal walk transformed into a 2km long temporary sculpture park. The event features over 100 sculptures by artists from Australia and across the world. sculpturebythesea.com
6 November - 8 November Vino Paradiso
Step into a magical world of wine & food, music, art and interactive happenings, right in the shadow of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Vino Paradiso is a three-day celebration of the world’s best wine, food, craft beer, cider and spirits. vinoparadiso.com.au
20 November - 29 November Corroboree Sydney
Enjoy a celebration of Australia’s rich cultural heritage, featuring leading Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artists, writers, dancers and musicians showcasing their creativity and sharing their stories in over 100 events. corroboreesydney.com.au
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BONDI BEACH Just 20 minutes by bus (catch the 333 from Elizabeth Street/ Bathurst Street), everyone wants to check out Bondi Beach. There are also heaps of great cafes and restaurants along Campbell Parade. Why not make a day of it, go for a swim or surf and then grab a bite in one for lunch or dinner. Three things to do Aboriginal Rock Carvings On the sea side of Bondi Golf Course, stands a substantial panel of Aboriginal rock carvings depicting various fish species.
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Bondi to Coogee walk This clifftop he walk extends for six km from Bondi to Coogee and features stunning views, parks, cliffs, bays and rock pools. bonditocoogeewalk.com.au Bondi Lifesavers If you’ve seen the TV show, you will find the tanned Aussie boys in their lifesaving tower, just below the Pavilion.
MANLY One great option is to buy some fish and chips and sit on the beach or boardwalk and watch the world go by. Three to discover
A 30 minute ferry ride from Circular Quay the Manly ferry is the most affordable way to see Sydney Harbour. Once there drop into the “Hello Manly Booking and Information Centre, East Esplanade, The Forecourt, Manly Wharf” and find out What’s On in Manly this week. Take the short walk through the Corso, where there are some of the over 100 cafes and restaurants, catering to all tastes and budgets.
Shelley Beach Walk to this beautiful cove via Cabbage Tree Bay and snorkel the clear pristine waters. A great spot for a BBQ and a safe swim. Continue walking the coastal route to reach North Head. North Head National Park Can be reached on foot, a Lovely bush walk with expansive views over Sydney CBD, across to South Head and out to sea. Sun, Surfing, Sunscreen “Aloha Surf, 44 Pittwater Road, Manly 02 9977 3777 alohasurfmanly.com.au” Simply lie on the beach and watch the locals. Don’t forget the sunscreen.
Hello Manly
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KINGS CROSS Three standout attractions Elizabeth Bay House A classic example of an 1830’s colonial stately home. Once dubbed the finest house in the colony. Open to the public.
Sydney’s red light district and nightclub zone. After dark is when this area really comes alive, with bars, clubs, strip clubs and late night cafes. During the day, here is what is worth visiting.
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Kings X Organic Food Markets Every Saturday from 10am to 4pm next to the fountain. Grab some wholesome food or the best bacon and egg roll in East Sydney. Wolloomooloo Finger Wharf Redeveloped into a modern wharf with a funky hotel and bar, offices and some quality restaurants.
SYDNEY HARBOUR
BY CHRIS HARRISON This world class harbour immerses visitors in the scenery, culture and personality of Sydney. It features Aboriginal heritage, lively land and sea environments and journeys into Australia’s convict history. Just outside Sydney Heads lies a coastline full of world famous beaches like Bondi and Manly.
Park. At its centre is Sydney Harbour National Park. Access the central and western parts is best made by boat; regular ferry services operate in Port Jackson from Circular Quay across to Manly and west along the Parramatta River. The northern and southern parts are best accessed by guided tour or car.
What’s included: Sydney Harbour stretches south to the Royal National Park, north to Barrenjoey Headland, northwest to Kuringai Chase National Park and west to Parramatta
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190 or L90. To the Northern beaches, Palm Beach (Home and Away) 169,178,179 or180. To the Spit Bridge for the Spit to Manly Walk.
SYDNEY HARBOUR
The Spit Bridge 0
1
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The Spit to Manly Wal 10km 3-4h The walk starts on the north side of the Spit bridge.
km approx to scale To Spit: 25 min Palm Beach: 1hr 45min
380
Bus Route Train Line; Train Station Ferry Route; Ferry Wharf
Neutral Bay
Mosman Bay
Taronga Zoo Adults $44
Nielson Beac
Kirribilli
Luna Park
12 min
Milsons McMahon’s Fort Point Goat Point Sydney Denison Island Harbour Bridge Garden Sydney Opera Island House The Botanic Darling Balmain Rocks CQ Gardens Point East Wynyard Martin Place The Star Casino Darling Harbour Town Hall 443 Fish Chinatown Markets
Central Station
Clark Island
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301 302 303
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Edgecliff 333 380 378
Ros Bay
Double Bay
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Things to do: • Stroll along the harbour foreshore and explore the Royal Botanic Gardens. • Visit Sydney’s best attractions including SEA LIFE Sydney Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo, Sydney Tower Eye+SKYWALK, Manly SEA LIFE Sanctuary. • Kayak the many waterways and inlets to discover enchanting bays and secluded beaches. • Camp overnight on Cockatoo Island and watch the city light up at night. • Discover the rich aboriginal cultural heritage on a guided aboriginal tour. • Take a tour of the military fortifications at Middle Head. • Spend the night at the historic Quarantine Station (Q Station) at North Head. • Wake to the sounds of elephants trumpeting at Taronga Zoo‚ Roar & Snore. • Cool off with a swim in the surf at iconic beaches such as Manly and Bondi. • Head to Parramatta to stroll the riverside Walk, explore Parramatta Park and visit Old Government House. • Scuba at Gordon’s Bay underwater nature Trail or snorkel at Clovelly or Shelley Beach. • See aboriginal rock engravings along the Bronte to Bondi section of the Great Coastal Walk. • Explore 35 kilometres of cycleways and discover the State heritage-listed Newington Armory precinct at Sydney Olympic Park.
Bondi Beach
ondi to Bronte Walk 3km 1h Tamarama gee Bronte 378 ubra issuu.com/sydneyguideandmap 17
ADVENTURE SKYDIVING
BY CHRIS HARRISON Looking for the ultimate rush while you are travelling?, now is the perfect time to do those things you normally wouldn’t do back home. If skydiving, we have done all the research for you. Skydiving is one of those adrenalin activities on many people‚ to-do list. With excellent training and operator safety levels, Australia is the perfect place to finally take the leap. For most travellers, tandem skydiving is the way to go. A tandem skydive only requires 15
18 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
- 20 minutes of practical training before you are deemed ready to take to the sky. A qualified instructor is strapped to your back and all you have to worry about is enjoying the ride! Find the most suitable package including price, convenience and availability of extras like videos and digital photos. You also need to think about the kind of view you want to absorb while floating to the ground. The best advice is to go as high as you can. You’ll get a full minute of free-fall from 14,000 feet and experience
speeds of around 200 km/ph. Maximum weight limits apply for skydiving, if you weigh under 95 kilograms and you’ll befine, but if you weigh over 95 kilograms, fitness and wind conditions need to be considered beforehand and you will also have to pay an additional fee. If you weigh over 110 kilograms, you are unlikely to be eligible to skydive. Once the big day arrives, wear sneakers and loose comfy clothing as tight clothes are uncomfortable when the harness is tightened. Also, if you wear prescription glasses, ask if special goggles are available you won’t want to miss anything on your float down to land! Resist the urge to have a big night before your dive.
For safety reasons you are not allowed to drink alcohol for eight hours before a skydive. Who to Skydive with? Sydney Skydivers 02 9791 9155 sydneyskydivers.com.au
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BLUE MOUNTAINS
The Blue Mountains are a popular day or overnight escape from Sydney. Just 50 kilometres from Sydney and part of the Great Dividing Range, the area is shrouded in a blue mist, created by a regional abundance of eucalyptus oil.
Panoramic lookouts in the area include Katoomba’s Echo Point, which provides views of the Three Sisters, Sublime Point Lookout at Wentworth Falls, and Govetts Leap and Evans Lookout at Blackheath. The Scenic Railway, is said to be the steepest railway in the world. The railway line descends 415 metres through sandstone cliffs, with a maximum gradient of 52 degrees. Also close by 20 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
is the Scenic Skyway, which traverses the Jamison Valley, and the Scenic Cableway, reported to be the steepest aerial cable car in the southern hemisphere. For the more adventurous there are over 140 kilometres of walking tracks for all levels are in this region and its regarded as a world class location for bushwalking. Abseiling, canyoning, mountain-biking and adventure caving are also available activities. Check out High’n’Wild Abseiling (highandwild.com.au) The Greater Blue Mountains area is made up of seven national parks, including: the Blue Mountains, Wollemi, Yengo, Nattai, KanangraBoyd, Gardens of Stone and Thirimere Lakes.
WESTERN SYDNEY
Almost half of Sydney’s 4 million residents actually live “out west.” That’s about 1 in every 11 Australians. No wonder the Wanderers, the new ‘A-League soccer team’ is based out here. Apart from the Wanderers, Western Sydney also hosts the Australian Rules (AFL) franchise “The Giants”.
Sport and sporting facilities are BIG in Western Sydney, you can visit the famous Sydney Olympic Park, home of the 2000 Summer Olympics and one of Sydney’s greatest venues for sporting and special events. The Western Sydney International Dragway and Sydney International Regatta Centre are also all based out this way. More tourism orientated is Featherdale Wildlife Park, home of over 2,000 animals. You can cuddle up to a koala and hand-feed kangaroos, emus, and wallabies. Other smaller animals, such as bilbies, are ideal for very small children.
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Featherdale Wildlife Park | Ph: +61 2 9622 1644 | 217 Kildare Road Doonside NSW 2767
www.featherdale.com.au issuu.com/sydneyguideandmap 21
BYRON BAY
Once a major hippy destination and a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life in Sydney or Brisbane. Today Byron is a great holiday destination due to its very laid back and cruisy lifestyle. It is a traveller’s dream stop off with beautiful golden beaches and a lovely north coast climate. Spend a few days here when travelling north or fly direct to Ballina or Coast Coast airports and drop in. Byron is blessed with beautiful beaches and Main Beach is where most people go to layout and hang out. Tallows is ideal for the surfers. Wategos is great for the quieter time.
Top 3 Byron Bay Lighthouse Walk up to the lighthouse before sunrise and watch the dawn. This is Australia’s most easterly point and is an enlightening experience. Dolphin Watch Check out the resident dolphin pod by kayak or on your way to dive Julian Rocks. You are almost guaranteed to see them. Snorkelling The Julian Rocks were named second in the top 10 snorkel spots in all of Australia to try and you’ll be astonished by the variety of marine life.
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Check us out! backpackersinnbyronbay.com.au Phone 1800 817 696 22 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
EDUCATION Study & Stay Longer in Oz The bad news for working holidaymakers is that a tax legislation that would take effect in July 2016 will require working holidaymakers to pay higher taxes than before. Instead of getting tax exemptions from their first 18,200 AUD of earnings, they will now be taxed from the first dollar they earned. If you are on a Working Holiday Visa and would like to consider a legal, longer and more economical option of staying in Australia, you may be interested in becoming an international student instead. Being a student doesn’t cost you
as much as you think it will. There are plenty of affordable courses and promotions offered by institutions with instalment payment plans. Student visas also allow them to work parttime (40 hours per fortnight) while their course is in session and full‐time during school holidays. You won’t have to worry about paying high taxes as international students are given more favorable tax exemptions than working holiday makers. And the best part is, getting an Australian degree gives you an edge in the workplcae when you return to your home country.
issuu.com/sydneyguideandmap 23
WANT TO STAY LONGER IN OZ? See page 23
Kakadu
Kimberley
Kings Canyon Uluru
Exmouth
Coober Pe
Esperance
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Cape Tr i b u l a t i o n
Mission Beach Whitsundays
Airlie Beach
1770
Fraser Island
n
Noosa
Hervey Bay Rainbow Beach Gold Coast
Byron Bay Coffs Harbour Port Macquarie
edy Blue Mountains
Kangaroo Island
Great Ocean Rd
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(International Youth Travel Save money in Australia & Card), you’re part of the ISIC overseas with an ISIC student global community. You can & Youth card! take advantage of thousands of Want to save money and benefits, services, discounts and access heaps of discounts? Then savings that the ISIC student you need an ISIC card! card offers. The International Student ISIC student, youth cards can Identity Card (ISIC) is the be purchased for just $30. Cards only internationally accepted, can be purchased directly from UNESCO endorsed proof of Australia Studycare, an official bona fide student status. An ISIC ISIC Appointed Office.For more card provides access to over info about the cards and the 42,000 discounts and services amazing discounts check out in over 130 countries. The ISIC isic.com.au. aims to allow students access to preferential travel opportunities, discounts and experiences in every area of student life, consequently reducing the cost of being a student. If you are not a full time student and under 31, you ISIC ASC halfan page advert_13.08.15_print ready_outlined.pdf 1 13/08/2015 4:48:43 PM can save too! With IYTC
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26 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
GOLD COAST, QUEENSLAND
BY CHRIS HARRISON Your gateway to Queensland, be it by air into Coolangatta Airport or by road from northern NSW. Gold Coast or ‘The GC’ is a must-see tourist destination for all international visitors. With 57km of white sandy surf beaches, its many world heritage listed rain-forests and the titles of ‘themepark’ and ‘nightclub’ capital of Australia, Gold Coast has something for everyone. For the best views of the coast I tried Skypoint, at 322 metres (1058 feet) and with the observation floor, which includes
as outstanding restaurant, on level 77 at 230 metres (755 feet) its the highest of its kind in Queensland. Skypoint offered some amazing views north to Brisbane and south to Byron Bay. For an even bigger thrill try, like I did, the Skypoint Climb and actually walk outside the glass. I was also thrilled at one of the Gold Coast’s many theme-parks: Dreamworld and Whitewater World can be booked together and offer great value. While out at Coomera (24kms from Surfers Paradise) why not make it a trifecta and check out the Australian issuu.com/sydneyguideandmap 27
Outback Spectacular, its great friendly entertainment and a three-course dinner is included. The next day you just have to get onto the Gold Coast Broadwater, a river and inlet system that’s 8 times bigger than rivals Venice or Amsterdam and full of on-the-water activities. I tried SUP (Stand Up Paddleboarding) from Budds Beach with Go Vertical SUP Hire and tried spinning 360 degrees in a high-powered jet boat with Paradise Jet Boating from Marina’s Cove, Main Beach. If you’ve now had enough exercise and adrenalin for one day why not head back towards Coolangatta and drop into Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Set in around 45ha of native forest the Sanctuary has developed around its world-famous lorikeet feeding. Its now a major tourist attraction
and has a Queensland Heritage Register listing. By far the best way to get around is by the new Segway Safari - easy to use, fun and safe transport. This is just a quick snapshot as there are more activities and attractions for young and adventurous travellers on the Gold Coast than any other city in the Southern Hemisphere. To enquire or book: Skypoint Climb 07 5680 7700 skypointclimb.com.au Dreamworld 07 5588 1111 dreamworld.com.au Australian Outback Spectacular 13 33 86 outbackspectacular.com.au Go Vertical SUP Hire 0423 716 625 govertical.com.au Paradise Jet Boating 1300 538 262 paradisejetboating.com.au Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary 1300 886 511 cws.org.au FOR MORE DETAILS visitgoldcoast.com adventuregoldcoast.com studygoldcoast.org.au
28 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
BRISBANE
The capital of Queensland, with a population of about 2 million. Explore Brisbane on a guided walk, cruising the river on a CityCat ferry or riding a bike along the riverside pathways Enjoy a swim at South Bank, home to Australia’s only inner
city beach. Abseil down the historic Kangaroo Point Cliffs, kayak or paddle-board the Brisbane river. Feed a wild dolphin at Tangalooma Island Resort on Moreton Island. Visit Moreton Island, only 25 kilometres from Brisbane and go diving, surfing or sand tobogganing. Dive, kayak or sail Brisbane’s Moreton Bay Marine Park – sanctuary for the world’s largest dugong (Manatee) population. FOR MORE INFORMATION Go to: thewordaustralia.com. au/queensland
FRASER ISLAND
A favourite for many tourists and travellers Fraser Island is the world’s largest sand island and Fraser Island’s was officially acknowledged in 1992 when it was accorded World Heritage Area status. Fraser Island is home to an abundance of wildlife. On land you’ll find over 325 species of birds as well as 30 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
gliders, wallabies, possums and dingoes. Dugongs, turtles and dolphins can be spotted playing in the Great Sandy Straits and Platypus Bay, and between August and November humpback whales with their young pass the western side of the island. Tours: Firstly decide whether you prefer exploring Fraser island by self-drive or guided tour. Self driving requires a four wheel drive vehicle, maps, permits and camping equipment, which can all be obtained from four wheel drive rental companies. Or join a tour company, tag-a-long and meet some new friends.
WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS & AIRLIE
BY MIKE BARROW We all know that the Whitsunday Islands are the place to go sailing and Airlie is really, well, party central. How about something a little different? Check out the following to whet your appetite and stay an extra few days in this tropical paradise.
do a great job looking after you, whether snorkelling over natural coral brimming with colourful fish or informing you of the history of the area. Whitehaven Beach has the whitest sand in the world and the water colours shift from bright blue to aquamarine. Great service and a superb way to visit the Whitsunday Islands. oceanrafting.com.au
Ocean Rafting Enjoy a thrilling ride out to the Whitsunday Islands and the famous Whitehaven Beach. These speedy inflatables skim fast over the water giving an exhilarating ride. These guys
Reef Sleep Ever dreamt of sleeping in a swag out in the middle of the ocean, surrounded by an amazing reef system. Well, you can. Cruise Whitsunday
WHITSUNDAYS
P: 07 4946 6848 | www.oceanrafting.com.au issuu.com/sydneyguideandmap 31
Islands have a great package to visit their permanent pontoon 40 kilometres offshore on the Great Barrier Reef. Travel by luxury high speed reef vessel and spend the day on the reef. As everyone departs, wave goodbye and enjoy the serenity. Watch the sunset from your open air balcony while you sip a glass of champagne. View the reef at night from the underwater real time aquarium. Give Reefsleep a go. cruisewhitsundays.com Air Whitsunday
a workout at the same time! whitsundaystanduppaddle.com.au Wings Adventure Park
Get Dirty! Race a mini 4WD through the amazing hinterland on the Whitsunday Coast at the new Wings Adventure Park. Climb from the vallery floor to the hilltops of the rainforest, slash through pod holes, and conquer tracks through grassland, marshland, wetland, creek beds and bumps. wings.com.au Rainforest Discovery Tour
Certainly not a cheap way of seeing the islands but a ‘must do’ if you have the cash (or a credit card). Really good commentary on a small plane over the reef and islands. See the famous Heart Reef and look out for sharks and turtles in the water below. Amazing colours from the air gives you the true perspective of how big the Great Barrier Reef really is. airwhitsunday.com.au Stand Up Paddle Boarding The not so new craze has hit Airlie Beach. A really great option to paddle around the moored boats just offshore. Keep your eyes peeled for dugongs in the bay and soaring eagles above. Rent boards by the hour and have 32 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
Ride your own Segway through the lush green rainforest and discover Conway National Park. Enjoy delicious morning tea under the canopy of the rainforest and relax by the crystal clear waters of Impulse Creek. whitsundaysegwaytours.com.au New Mountain Bike Trails Mountain Biking in the Whitsundays is truly unique. Climb to the tops of the rainforest of the Whitsunday Great Walk or ride alongside the azure blue waters and the Whitsunday Islands on South Molle Island. whitsundaymtbc.com.au Or if you really want to go sailing, then you only have 74 islands to choose from.
arrier tB R a
ef e
Gr e
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D I V E CENTRE AUSTRALIA
• Learn to Dive • Glass Bottom Boat Day & Night Tours • Introductory Diving • Snorkelling • Island Hire - coral viewing
kayaks, snorkel & dive gear, stand up paddle boards & camera hire
Fitzroy Island Dive Centre Ph:
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Day Trips to the Outer Reef Day Trips to Fitzroy Island 2 & 3 Day Liveaboard Trips Snorkelling & Diving Introductory Diving Learn to Dive Courses Cairns Dive Centre 121 Abbott Street, Cairns Qld 4870
Ph:
07 4051 0294
www.cairnsdive.com.au issuu.com/sydneyguideandmap 33
CAIRNS
If you have never been to tropical north Queensland, especially Cairns, then you are in for a good time. As the adventure capital of Australia, Cairns has a multitude of activities on offer. The only restriction you may have is time and money. Here’s a taste of some of the top things to do. Skydiving
If you want to do the ultimate adrenalin rush, then get out of your comfort zone and take a skydive. Get packed into a small plane and take a bumpy ride to 14,000 feet. Then get pushed out of a plane and scream. Feel the air rush up into your face as you free fall before the chute opens and you drift silently down to earth. Just do it. skydivecairns.com.au 34 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
Whitewater Rafting A great day out on and in the water and set amongst one of the world’s oldest rainforests. The scenery is amazing and we’re in the tropics so the water warm. Spill over the rapids and glide down the mighty Tully river. Grab a few mates and share the experience. cairnsrafting.com.au Diving/ Snorkelling
What else can we say, but the Great Barrier Reef. One of the natural wonders of the world and visible from space. You can be a part of it either snorkelling or diving. Only a few hours from Cairns by boat, the reef appears on the horizon. Coral “bommies” break the surface and the water colour
changes from dark blue to green and aqua. Underwater is a whole new experience, new life, a myriad of glinting colourful fish and corals. There are plenty of day trips available but staying overnight is highly recommended. cairnsdive.com.au Bungy Jumping Standing on a platform high above the jungle canopy, looking down onto a small pond of water, the weight of the ropes want to pull you over the edge to the abyss below. The countdown is on 10..9..8.. will you jump or not? Only you can decide. ajhackett.com/cairns
Cairns Lagoon Situated on the Esplanade, the lagoon is a man made giant swimming pool with a beach. It’s free with nearby communal BBQ facilities. A great place to chill out. Night Markets One of Cairns’ little secrets. Go to the night markets on the Esplanade and have a foot and back massage. Only $15 for 45 minutes. Whilst you are there, eat cheaply at the food stalls and check out the markets for Aussie souvenirs. cairns.qld.gov.au/esplanade
“Best Value Tour In Australia” - tripadvisor.com
1300-CAIRNS www.downunderdive.com.au issuu.com/sydneyguideandmap 35
CAPE TRIBULATION Trib is has four main resorts catering to backpackers and upmarket tourists, and some unique rainforest bed and breakfasts. Two of the Best Ocean Safari Spend a half day on your own private snorkelling reef. Travel on a fast water sports boat. Cruise around with turtles, nemo and even reef sharks.
Or ‘Cape Trib’ as the locals like to call it, is 90 minutes (or 110kms) north of Cairns and best seen over two days. Right in the heart of the Daintree rainforest, the oldest rainforest in the world, Cape
Jungle Surfing Get high in the rainforest. Swing through the jungle from tree to tree. Don’t worry, you are attached by ropes and harnesses.
CAPE TRIBULATION REEF EXPERIENCE
• Great Barrier Reef Half Day ECO TOUR • Quickest tour to the Great Barrier Reef P: 07 4098 0006 | tours@oceansafari.com.au | www.oceansafari.com.au 36 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
NORTHERN TERRITORY
Darwin, Kakadu and Litchfield Darwin is ‘the capital of the NT’ and one of the fastest growing and most cosmopolitan cities in Australia. It is steeped in rich history, from its Aboriginal roots to its modern WW2 heritage. Visit Crocosaurus Cove in Mitchell Street. This is the home of the Cage of Death and has plenty of crocs. croccove.com Mindil Beach Markets are open every Thursday and Sunday and are well worth a visit for food and cool stuff to buy. Watch the sun setting from the beach. mindil.com.au
Kakadu National Park is the main attraction of the region. Discover the remarkable landscape, wildlife and rich culture. Amazing rock-art sites show the importance of the link between the indigenous custodians and the surrounding country. Explore spectacular wetlands full of birds and crocs. Swim in clear pools. Kakadu is best visited with an organized tour over a few days. Guides are very knowledgeable about the fauna and flora. Litchfield National Park is only 1.5 hours south of Darwin, Litchfield is a smaller version of Kakadu and a popular day tour from Darwin.
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Katherine Gorge (Nitmiluk) is one of the region’s highlights. Only 300 kilometres south of Darwin, the Katherine River flows through 13 gorges that carve their way through Arnhem Plateau. Canoe down the river or hop in a helicopter and get a birds’ eye view. Arnhem Land lies well east of Darwin, beyond Kakadu. It is one of the last pristine areas in the world and has an unspoiled wilderness. Deserted coastlines, rainforests, escarpments, gulf savannah woodlands and giant rivers make up this beautiful area. Aboriginal traditional culture remains largely intact. Uluru and the Red Centre Uluru (Ayers Rock) stands alone in the middle of the Australian outback and is probably one of the most iconic natural formations in the world. . Standing 348 metres high it’s a massive sandstone rock formation and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nearby Kata Tjuta formation have significant cultural significance for the local Anangu people. Walk the Valley of the Winds trail and
38 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
feel the spirituality of the area. Watarrka (Kings Canyon) National Park features one of the most spectacular sights in Central Australia. The Kings Creek Walk is an easy trail along the rocky creek bed to a raised platform with spectacular views of the huge canyon rim. Alice Springs is the main town of the Red Centre. It is so remote that the nearest major city (Darwin) lies 1500km to the north. Top things to do in Alice Springs include the Kangaroo Sanctuary and the Australian Reptile Park . If you feel like a walk, there are plenty running from Alice including the iconic Larapinta Trail, one of the best desert walks in the world.
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Remote, vast and beautifully diverse. ‘WA’ is also famous for its long days of sunshine and dramatic landscapes. With surf, reef, forest, and rugged national parks it’s little wonder young travellers are now heading west. Recent booms in growth and development, especially in the mining and hospitality
industries make it an exciting and vibrant place to be, with many future development plans in the pipeline. Taking in the delights of Western Australia requires a little bit more effort, but that merely serves to make the achievement all the more rewarding. Hiring a 4WD helps to tackle the dirt tracks of the northern national parks and organised tours will cover wine regions, coastal stretches and city hubs. Perth is Australia’s sunniest capital city, its also urban cool and raw natural beauty rolled into one. Perth is also home to
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Kings Park, a beautiful inner city park, some nearby wineries and of course stunning city beaches. Be sure to visit Rottnest Island and lovely Freemantle. Ningaloo Reef is less well know than its East Australian cousin the Great Barrier Reef but is just as beautiful. Waters are pristine and the reef can easily be accessed from the shore. Between April and July, come and see the migrating whale sharks, the largest fish in the world. Monkey Mia is one of Western Australia’s most famous dolphin watching destinations. This calm bay is world famous for the pod of friendly dolphins that visit the shore most days to be hand fed. Located 25 kilometres from the town of Denham in the Shark Bay World Heritage area, offers a unique chance to see wild dolphins in their natural habitat. Climb, swim or gaze into the depths of Karijini Gorge’s 100 metre chasms, revealing four billion years of the Earth’s history and some of the oldest rocks on the planet. Follow the trails, descend into cavernous gorges and cool off in inviting pools beneath plunging waterfalls.
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Pinnacles are only two hours from Perth. The lunar-like formations are one of Australia’s most unique and fascinating natural landscapes. Formed over millions of years, thousands of tall limestone spires rise eerily out of the yellow desert sands of Nambung National Park, just outside the coastal town of Cervantes. Broome’s Cable Beach is justifiably world famous for its 22 kilometres of sun-kissed white sand, turquoise water and spectacular Indian Ocean sunsets. But what really gives it a top spot on the must-do list is the experience of taking in all its tropical splendour from the seat of a camel train.
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
Adelaide is a city of innovation and culture. Home to one of the world’s great arts festivals and some amazing inner city food markets. This state capital’s highest acclaim could be its easy access to the stunning South Australian Outback and 3,800 kilometres of amazing coastline, some of the best wine and seafood regions in the world are also on Adelaide’s doorstep. Free stuff - Bike SA runs the Adelaide City Bikes scheme. A free daily bike hire program for tourists, visitors, city workers, students and residents who use the bikes as a convenient way to get around the city. Stop off at some of Adelaide’s great attractions such as the Art Gallery of South Australia and Adelaide Botanic Garden. For chocolate lovers, enjoy special chocolate tastings, see chocolates being made and discover the heritage behind Haigh’s, Australia’s oldest chocolate manufacturer, where chocolate is still handmade. SA has the most accessible
outback in Australia. Everything is so close to Adelaide. Plus the city beach (Glenelg) is just 20 minutes by tram from the city centre. Kangaroo Island, a zoo without fences, a sanctuary for wildlife and natural that has a rugged beauty all its own. The ocean is teeming with sea lions and fairy penguin colonies. Plus rare bird life, Tammar wallabies, short-beaked echidnas and plenty of kangaroos and koalas. What can we possibly say about the Eyre Peninsular? Simple - SHARKS SHARKS SHARKS. This is the place in the world to get up close and personal with Great White Sharks. For more details visit southaustralia.com
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SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S OUTBACK TOWNS
If it’s adventure you are looking for then you can’t go past the South Australian Outback. Legendary tracks like Birdsville, Oodnadatta, Strezlecki and Beadell’s Bomb together with some of Australia’s most famous deserts and lakes. Coober Pedy The world’s largest producer of opals. This special mining town of 3,500 is located on the sealed Stuart Highway 850km north of Adelaide. I bet living in a cave doesn’t sound comfortable to you? Well Coober Pedy will prove you wrong: about 80% of the population lives underground, so don’t miss the unbelievable experience of sleeping in caves yourself. Ceduna Home to 2300, the name is said to mean ‘place to sit down and rest’(from the Aboriginal word Chedoona). Ceduna certainly has a lot on offer; there are small boats 42 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
along the Norfolk Island pine lined foreshore. Guests can also indulge in a boat charters, 4WD driving tours and some great whale watching. Port Augusta A seaport and railway junction at the head of the Spencer Gulf. The town is home to over 13,000. Port Augusta has plenty to offer tourists including the Wadlata Outback Centre (a tourist information centre introducing visitors to life in the Australian Outback) and Homestead Park Pioneer Museum (railway and farming museum). For more information visit southaustralia.com.au
VICTORIA
Melbourne - recently been named the most liveable city in the world - is increasingly seen as an ideal base for working holiday makers. A fun, ever-changing, exciting city with a thriving cafe, bar and live music scene.
Melbourne is also one of the world’s most renowned street art cities. Visitors love checking out Melbourne’s hidden laneways for the street, cafes and bars. These can be discovered in the most unlikely locations - on roof tops, in basements, in shipping containers and even in beauty salons and retail stores. This city is sports mad. The sports precinct includes the Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) with its National
Sports Museum, and Rod Laver Arena. These form the heart of the action for cricket, football (soccer) and the Australian Open Tennis. Events such as the Superbike World Championship and Motorcycle Grand Prix in Phillip Island, World Snooker Championship in Bendigo, and the Rip Curl Pro at Bells Beach on the Great Ocean Road provide every reason to visit Victoria. Many of Melbourne’s best attractions are free, such as Federation Square, Queen Victoria Market, Royal Botanic Gardens, National Gallery of Victoria, Australian Centre for Moving Image and The Ian Potter Centre: NGV. Getting around the city is also free with Trams in
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VICTORIA
the city centre all running in a you guessed it ‘free zone’. Those looking for a more rural experience. With landscapes including wine and fruit regions, farm land, mountain ranges and coastal areas – there is a wide range of options for working holidays and after work adventure.
Great Ocean Road One of Australia’s most famous scenic routes, Victoria’s Great Ocean Road certainly lives up to its name. From Melbourne to Torquay, the Great Ocean Road hugs the coastline for more than 300 kilometres before reaching Warrnambool. Natural wonders include some giant rock stacks soaring from the Pacific Ocean, the Twelve 44 THE WORD Australia Sydney Guide & Map
Apostles are the best known natural feature of the area. Wilsons Promontory Located 220 kilometres southeast of Melbourne, Wilsons Promontory, or ‘The Prom’, a perfect weekend getaway. Covering 49,000 hectares of Australia’s southernmost tip, The Prom used to be part of a ‘land bridge’ linking Tasmania to Victoria. Now to reach Tasmania you can fly or travel by ferry the ‘Spirit of Tasmania’ from Melbourne to Devonport. The trip takes 9-11 hours and there are day and night sailings. Visit spirintoftasmania com.au for details. For more information visit tourism.vic.gov.au
GETTING AROUND BY TRAIN
Use NSW TrainLink services to visit and enjoy all sorts of great towns in Country NSW. Journey to some of the most picturesque and historic towns in New South Wales using NSW TrainLink’s services. Take a leisurely trip and visit the university city of Armidale. Other places of interest include the gold rush town of Parkes and the Taronga Western Plains Zoo at Dubbo.
motorsport and the Mount Panorama racing circuit. Dubbo Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo is a major attraction for visitors. This 300-hectare open-range sanctuary houses more than 700 animals, including many rare and endangered species.
Armidale Armidale is set among rolling hills on the high tablelands of the Great Dividing Range. This town is halfway between Sydney and Brisbane. It’s a city of culture and learning, with a heritage precinct, numerous churches and cathedrals. Bathurst One of Australia’s oldest inland settlements, Bathurst is a gateway to former gold rush towns that feature grand old homes built for wealthy graziers. Today Bathurst serves as the spiritual home of Australian
Parkes When Neil Armstrong first walked on the moon in 1969, it was the Parkes Telescope that broadcast the event around the world. Now visitors travel to learn about the radio telescope as well as astronomy. For transport info head to nswtrainlink.info issuu.com/sydneyguideandmap 45
Discovery Pass Great value that covers a lot of country Now there are two Discovery Passes to choose from: Economy and the new Premium Discovery Pass.
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