September 10-16 2012 Issue 698 tntdownunder.com
IRN W UXU IOUS
AL GOLD COAST S N RUGBY SEVE PACKAGE
SEXTUPLE THREAT Meeting the multi talented Tim Minchin
SWIMMING WITH GIANTS Up close with Ningaloo’s whale sharks
G N I W T S E W THE
rn Australia te s e W f o te e sta to neglect th y z ra c e b ’d u hy yo 35 reasons w u o y e iv g e W + NEWS & SPORT WHAT’S ON FILM REVIEWS TRAVELLERS’ TIPS
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ALEX HARMON EDITOR editor@tntdownunder.com
EDITOR’S LETTER Why do you travellers neglect Western Australia? Sure it might be quicker to get to New Zealand, but you’re making a big mistake by overlooking the glorious state. Not convinced? We’ve got 35 reasons why you should go (pg6). We also send a writer to swim with the whale sharks on the Ningaloo Reef (pg32). You may have just missed them, but you’ll be ready for next year. Prepared is our middle name!
THIS WEEK OZ DIARY
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CHATROOM
16
FILM
18
TRAVEL
26
COMPETITION
30
NEWS
40
OPINION
42
SPORT
44
LISTINGS NSW
47
LISTINGS QUEENSLAND
48
LISTINGS VICTORIA
52
LISTINGS NT
55
LISTINGS TASMANIA
56
LISTINGS SA
57
LISTINGS WA
58
LISTINGS NEW ZEALAND
61
WORK
62
TRIVIAL PURSUITS
66
32
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FEATURES WEST SIDE STORY
6
Everything you’ll ever need to know about the untouched state, WA
MINCHIN AROUND
20
We chat to the extraordinary Tim Minchin ahead of his Homebake set
WHALE TALES
32
Up close with Ningaloo’s resident whale sharks. Tick that off your bucket list!
SPRING BOARD Spend a weekend in Auckland NZ, where action lurks on every corner
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OZDIARY EDITORIAL Editor Alex Harmon Staff writer Hugh Radojev Contributors Gavin Fernando, Leanne Stevens, Stephanie Williams Interns James Besanvalle, Caitlin Stanway
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Clowns: inspiring horror filmmakers for centuries
DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Design and production manager Lisa Ferron SALES Account manager Justin Steinlauf Sales Executive Mike Ramsden MARKETING & EVENTS Business development manager Tom Wheeler DISTRIBUTION Lee Sutherland ACCOUNTS Financial controller Trish Bailey Accountant Hannah Waters
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MAIN EVENT ROYAL ADELAIDE SHOW ADELAIDE
It’s an oldie, but a goodie on the South Australian calendar and it returns to the Adelaide Showground in 2012 boasting a number of new attractions as well as all the old favourites. For fans of B-grade gore and corny slasher films the brand new Hollywood Horrors attraction walk-through will leave even the bravest of patrons shaking. There’s also plenty of rides, stunt drivers, hourly symphonic light shows and the perennial festival favourite show bags available to keep everybody happy, young or old. September 7-15
Adelaide Showground
theshow.com.au
OZKINK FESTIVAL 2012
MUDGEE WINE FESTIVAL
LE GATEAU CHOCOLAT
Now into its fifth year, Oz’s largest fetish festival promises to be a haven for anyone who’s into a little leather. With a fully licensed bar and a fun, relaxed atmosphere OzKink promises to be a bit of an eye opener! Only those adventurous ought apply.
Highlighting one of Australia’s fastest growing wine regions this festival is perfect for foodies and wine connoisseurs alike. Sample wines from 32 cellar doors and restaurants or just enjoy the beautiful scenery located just three hours drive northwest of Sydney.
One of the UK’s most engaging and talented cabaret singers returns to Sydney’s Fringe Festival to make his solo debut. Bringing a suitcase stuffed with drag and show stopping tunes Le Gateau Chocolat promises to be one of the festivals biggest hits.
Sept 15 Fitzroy Town Hall, Melbourne ozkinkfest.com.au
Sept 7-24 Various Mudgee, NSW mudgeewine.com.au
Sept 15-23 Playhouse, Sydney Opera House sydneyfringefestival.com
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West side glory Epic wilderness regions, an astonishing reef and friendly wildlife, Western Australia’s biggest wonder is the lack of tourists WORDS ALEX HARMON
Although the east coast of Australia has a well-trodden path full of action and adventure, it is a huge mistake to overlook Western Australia while you’re here. From the sunset camel rides in Broome in the north, to Margaret River’s surf region to the south, diving with whale sharks on the Ningaloo Reef, or spotting southern right whales off the Eyre Highway. WA really does have plenty to offer the nature enthusiast. Meanwhile the capital, Perth, is a laidback city, where the locals enjoy a strong music scene, a great beach life and cruisy café culture. You’ll find this 6
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pretty city on the banks of the Swan River. It’s a modern, lively, youthful city, much like smaller-scale Sydney. Over 80 per cent of WA’s population lives here and you don’t need a fat IQ to see why. Boasting an impeccable year-round climate – with more sunshine than any other capital city in Australia – Perth’s fabulous Indian Ocean beaches and chilled-out atmosphere make it a relaxing place to stop. Although it is one of the most isolated cities in the world, visitors can enjoy an active nightlife, a fresh club scene, plenty of attractions and museums, a buzzing cafe culture and a
renowned live music scene. Feel like getting out of the city? WA’s south-west is dotted with giant trees, lush hills, world-famous vineyards and gorgeous surf beaches. It’s said that this is some of the oldest land in the world. From the second largest town in WA, Bunbury, to Margaret River, renowned for both its surfing and wine (not recommended together, however) to the chilled-out Denmark and all the national parks, the south coast is definitely worth the trek. And if that’s not enough, read on to discover 35 more things found in Australia’s captivating western state...
STAIRCASE TO THE MOON
THE WORLD’S LARGEST ROCK
The moon rising over the beach in Broome creates the unique effect of a walkway up to the gleaming moon. Extraordinary stuff.
Mount Augustus in Burringurrah National Park is the largest rock in the world – twice the size of Uluru – and scientists have dated it at over 1,650 million years old.
THE KIMBERLEY You may have seen a glimpse of this incredible place the size of 57 Belgiums (or something) in the film Australia. Our long lost editor rates this as his favourite place in the whole of Australia. Just get there. End of.
THE “WET” The wet season (roughly December to April) is a prime time to visit the northern parts of the state, with thundering waterfalls, crazy lightning and serious floods. Just make sure you’re stuck on the right side of a pub when the floods come....
CROSSING THE NULLARBOR For a 2,700km, flat, desolate road, there’s a hell of a lot to do on the Nullarbor Plain (roughly between Adelaide and Perth). Beautiful caves, astonishing coastal scenery and memorable wildlife encounters? It’s one hell of a roadtrip.
ESPERANCE At the western end of the Great Australian Bight, Esperance is a popular town known for its surf breaks, stunning scenery and beautiful secluded beaches.
KARIJINI NATIONAL PARK Karijini in the Pilbara region has some of the most spectacular scenery in the country plus some of the world’s oldest rocks.
BIG TREES The karri trees in and around Pemberton in the lush southwest are some of the largest in the world. Climb the scarily high 60m Gloucester Tree (if you dare) for fantastic views over the region.
TERMITE MOUNDS As big as a really fat bloke on stilts, these giant mounds dot the roads all over WA. They’re made of termite spit and poo.
VALLEY OF THE GIANTS TREE TOP WALK
THE GIBB RIVER ROAD
In the middle of the southern Tall Timber country, the Tree Top Walk is suspended 40 metres up in a canopy of giant tingle trees. Then head on to Denmark and Albany for whale watching, surfing and 4WDing.
If you’re taking the trip from Broome across to Darwin, this is the most direct – but, bounciest – route. Only accessible in a 4WD and in the dry season, the Gibb is an icon of Aussie roadtrips.
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MONKEY MIA
CAPE LEVEQUE
A busy, but still fascinating, interaction with bottlenose dolphins, who swim right up to the beach to be fed. Can get crowded, but it’s still photo-tastic.
At the end of a rough, dusty road north from Broome is the stunning Cape Leveque. Lukewarm waters, postcard perfect coastline and the best sunsets we’ve ever seen.
PARTYING IN NORTHBRIDGE With heaps of late night pubs and clubs, Northbridge is where Perth’s young and restless go to party.
KINGS PARK, PERTH
BUNGLE IT
Head to Kings Park for amazing views of the Perth skyline. And while you’re at it stroll among the trees, visit the Botanic Garden, and hop on a bike for a tour.
Deep in the eastern Kimberley is the Purnululu Range (also known as the Bungle Bungles). These 350 million-year-old rock formations have to be seen to be believed, looking like giant stripey beehives. Also, nearby (by outback standards) is the world’s second-largest meteor crater, in Wolfe Creek. Yes, that one.
SWIM WITH THE DOLPHINS Avoid the feeding frenzy at Monkey Mia and head to the small south-western town of Bunbury for amazing dolphin action at Koombana Bay. Likewise in Rockingham.
QUOKKAS These tiny wallabies call gorgeous Rottnest Island their home, just off the coast of Perth. Take a bike tour and keep an eye out for these hardy little fellas.
SUNSETS Talking of sunsets, the whole state is blessed. Watch the orange globe sinking into the sea as it bleeds across the sky every single night. Surely Australia’s most spectacular sunsets – not least from Broome’s Cable Beach.
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CROCS WATERFALL MASSAGE Sit under the powerful mini waterfall of Bell Gorge in the Kimberley for a natural back massage, and let it carry all your travel stresses down the river.
Keep your eyes peeled for these nasties of the WA waterworld. Saltwater crocs are far more deadly than freshwater ones, but we wouldn’t press your luck.
MARGARET RIVER
FREMANTLE PRISON
Surfing on a river? Despite its deceptive name, Margaret River is arguably the best place to surf in the country. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also home to some of Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best vineyards.
One of the best tourist value activities in the country, which was recently granted World Heritage status. Take a ghost tour, or even jump in a subterranean canoe to explore the tunnels beneath the prison.
CAPE ESCAPES
THE GOLDFIELDS Kalgoorlie-Boulder may be the main mining town in WA, but the best places to visit are the ghost towns which provide a stark reminder of a time long gone. Failing that, go on a brothel tour.
200m from the
WALPOLE-NORNALUP NATIONAL PARK Home to some of the oldest creatures in the world, WalpoleNornalup NP on the south coast also boasts the ancient, redstained rocks of Shelly Beach, which once attached Australia to Antarctica.
river
Kalbarri Backpa
ckers
KALBARRLIIST! BUCKET River Gorges
Murchison Visit the coastal cliffs Beautiful chison g in the Mur Swimmin an River or Oce season le watching Long Wha e close to shore) m (Whales co phin pod Local Dol aces withing of eating pl Variety ance walking dist riding, rding, horse Sandboa & abseiling g in iv skyd quadbikes, g lican feedin Daily Pe
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The Cape region of the south-west boasts Cape Leeuwin and Cape Naturaliste, which give amazing views of the state from the top. Cape Leeuwin is also the place where the Southern and Indian Oceans meet.
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Stay a while longer... A Kalbarri At lb i Backpackers k k YHA we offer ff our guests a relaxed l d stay with i h the h best b possible service at an affordable price. p K Kalbarri Backpackers YHA is centrally located in Kalbarri, only minutes from tthe river mouth and pristine beaches, just a short stroll from shops, cafes and rrestaurants. K Kalbarri is surrounded by the awe inspiring Kalbarri National Park with its deep gorges, interesting rock formations and beautiful coastal cliffs. g W With a large undercover BBQ and eating area and a sparkling well maintained pool, iit is easy to meet new friends from around the world. T dorms have between 6 and 12 beds with two double bed rooms available. The Budget accommodation has never looked this good! B
P Phone: 08 9937 1430 Email: kalbarribackpackers@wn.com.au E www.kalbarribackpackers.com w
Best of the West!
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www.adventuretours.com.au * Terms and Conditions apply. Itineraries may vary and/or attractions be substituted for any cause including seasonal conditions, weather extremes, Traditional Owner and national park requirements. Get On Board guaranteed Saturday departures all September 2012. Tours are operated in partnership with WesternXposure. Please refer to our full terms and conditions at www.adventuretours.com.au before booking these tours. Western Xposure is a division of the Adventure Tours Australia Group Pty Ltd. WA Omnibus Lic. No. 4383, 4384, 4385.
Book 7 consecutive nights and pay for 6 nights - any room type! (08) 99213275 email: foreshorebp@hotmail.com www.foreshorebackpackers.bigpondhosting.com
WA ART GALLERY
FRIENDLY DRIVERS
Head to Perthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top gallery for some great examples of contemporary and Aboriginal art existing sideby-side.
Driving the long distances in WA gets a bit monotonous, but even in the outback every car you pass seems to wave at you. Act all local and wave back. Even better, master the one finger salute (not the rude one).
OLD ROADHOUSES You may be in the middle of nowhere, when suddenly, up pops a petrol station packed with chocolate, ice lollies and cold drinks. Perfect. And good for the iconic outback petrol pump photo.
172 Marine Terrace Geraldton Western Australia
Dunsborough Inn Backpackers
Located in the South West of Western Australia, Dunsborough Inn Backpackers is conveniently located right in the heart of town and is within a leisurely stroll to all shops, cafes, restaurants, wine bars, banks and the beautiful Dunsborough foreshore. This magnificent seaside location is ideal for swimming, snorkelling, surfing, windsurfing, fishing or simply just kicking back on one of the pristine beaches Geographe Bay has to offer. Non dormitory hostel rooms (communal kitchen and bathrooms) start from $30 per night or choose to stay in one of our Self Contained units with full cooking facilities from $120 per night. The large communal kitchen/dining room and spacious recreation areas provide a perfect environment for all guests to exchange their experiences of the day. Phone: 08 9756 7277 Fax: 08 9756 7722 Email: bookings@dunsboroughinn.com.au Web: www.dunsboroughinn.com.au
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TUNNEL CREEK A 750 metre-long underground river that cuts through the Kimberleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Napier Range. The walk is through chilly water, but the reward is the gorgeous billabong and Aboriginal art waiting at the other end.
The TNT Golden Backpack Awards recognise those companies who make backpacking around Australia and New Zealand that extra bit special. FZr[^ rhn lmZr^] bg Z _ZgmZlmb\ ahlm^e rhn ee g^o^k _hk`^m% hk p^gm hg a trip with the best tour guide Down Under. Mabl bl rhnk \aZg\^ mh ohm^ _hk rhnk _Zohnkbm^l' :g] pah dghpl% rhn fb`am ^o^g [^\hf^ Z pbgg^k rhnkl^e_' Ohm^ Zg] rhn ee ZnmhfZmb\Zeer [^ ^gm^k^] bgmh hnk ikbs^ ]kZp _hk Z \aZg\^ mh PBG *))) h_ ?K>> Ă&#x153;b`aml# withTiger Airways. Voting closes on September *0ma +)*+% pbma ma^ pbgg^kl h_ ma^ @he]^g ;Z\diZ\dl Zgghng\^] bg Gho^f[^k' =hg m _hk`^m mh m^ee rhnk fZm^l mh ohm^ mhh% lh ma^r \Zg Zelh aZo^ Z \aZg\^ mh pbg mabl _ZgmZlmb\ ikbs^' *Terms and conditions apply.
2012_GPB Weekly_FP.indd 1
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FREO
GONE TROPPO
A quick train ride from Perth,“Freo’s” convict-era architecture and wicked pubs are a must see, plus the famous market. The best place in the state to people watch.
Towns don’t get much more curious than Broome. Stuck in the middle of nowhere, but with a cosmopolitan feel. The most incredible sunsets, lively nightlife, the wet, going “troppo” (ie. a bit mad), crocs, camels... Crikey!
CAVING IN From the Nullarbor on the Great Australian Bight to the show caves on the south-west cape, there are hundreds of the damn things. Keep an eye out for stalactites, stalagmites and Batmobiles.
GOOD REEF Arguably better than the Great Barrier Reef, Ningaloo is reachable from the shore, is patrolled annually by whale sharks and has hardly any bugger around. Plus, Coral Bay is one of our favourite beaches Down Under. Bliss.
LAST YEAR’S WESTERN AUSTRALIAN WINNERS... Best hostel: Be Perth Per Pe r City YHA Best backpacker night: Be Thee Old Swan Barracks Th Best tour/activity: Be Western Exposure We
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EMPERORâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S CROWN
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3VJH[LK PU [OL OLHY[ VM 7LY[O [OL ,TWLYVY»Z *YV^U I\KNL[ HJJVTTVKH[PVU and backpackers is just 300 meters from Perth train station and minutes MYVT [OL UPNO[SPML VM 5VY[OIYPKNL HUK ZOVWWPUN PU [OL *)+ -LH[\YPUN JVTT\UHS JV\Y[`HYKZ PU[LYUL[ SV\UNL -V_[LS HUK JVTTLYJPHS RP[JOLU 4P_LK HUK -LTHSL +VYTZ 8\LLU ;YPWSL HUK 8\HK YVVTZ H]HPSHISL ^P[O prices starting from just $30 per night* FREE: Â&#x2039; )LK SPULU Â&#x2039; 3VJRLYZ Â&#x2039; ))8 UPNO[Z Contact us to make your booking! A: :[PYSPUN :[YLL[ 7LY[O >( T: E: manager@emperorscrown.com.au w: www.emperorscrown.com.au
WITCHâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HAT
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(U H^HYK ^PUUPUN Z[HY IHJRWHJRLY ;OL >P[JO»Z /H[ PZ ZP[\H[LK PU H X\PL[ HYLH VM 5VY[OIYPKNL ;OL >P[JO»Z /H[ PZ [OL PKLHS IHZL MVY L_WSVYPUN shopping and dining in cosmopolitan Perth. Featuring communal JV\Y[`HYK -V_[LS HUK 0U[LYUL[ SV\UNL HUK RP[JOLU MHJPSP[PLZ 4P_LK HUK -LTHSL +VYTZ ;^PU HUK 8\LLU YVVTZ H]HPSHISL with prices starting from just $30 per night* FREE: Â&#x2039; )LK SPULU Â&#x2039; ))8 UPNO[Z Â&#x2039; 3VJRLYZ Â&#x2039; ;LH *VMMLL Contact us to make your booking! A: 7HSTLYZ[VU :[YLL[ 5VY[OIYPKNL 7LY[O >( T: E: manager@witchs-hat.com w: www.witchs-hat.com
*based on dorm weekly rates
SURFPOINT@PREVELLY
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Located at the heart of the Margaret River region, Surfpoint@Prevelly budget accommodation and backpackers is just minutes from the renowned swimming HUK Z\YÃ&#x201E;UN ILHJOLZ ^PULYPLZ HUK H[[YHJ[PVUZ 0[»Z HU PKLHS IHZL [V YLSH_ HUK \U^PUK ^OPSZ[ ZLLPUN [OL ILZ[ [OL :V\[O >LZ[ OHZ [V VMMLY -LH[\YPUN H -V_[LS lounge, games area, outdoor swimming pool and BBQ facilities as well as huge kitchen and dining hall. 4P_LK +VYTZ 8\LLU ;YPWSL HUK -HTPS` YVVTZ H]HPSHISL ^P[O WYPJLZ Z[HY[PUN from just $25 per night.* FREE: Â&#x2039; )LK SPULU Â&#x2039; ;LH *VMMLL Â&#x2039; 7VVS UPNO[Z Contact us to make your booking! A: 9PLKSL +YP]L .UHYHI\W 4HYNHYL[ 9P]LY >( T: E: manager@surfpoint.com.au w: www.surfpoint.com.au
Vote for us in the WA Accommodation 2012 Golden Backpack Awards! surfside.indd 1
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CHATROOM
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Hanson We all know the wholesome brothers who turned MMMBop into ‘a thing’ in the Nineties. Now they’re grown up, with a new album and a line of beer. We chat to the old one, Isaac... INTERVIEW ALEX HARMON
title is “MMMhop”. I thought that was a joke Well, it is kind of a joke, but it’s true. Are you sick of playing MMMBop yet? As an artist, you’re always trying to move forward. But there is no lack of pride in playing our older music. I would say songs like MMMBop and Where is the Love I enjoy more now. Also we don’t have anything to prove now, and so I think in that case, the song has gotten better with age. Matured like a fine wine? More like a good vintage soda pop! It’s something that we’re very, very proud of.
“We’re just a few years young as far as I’m concerned”
Hi Isaac, you’re the eldest, right? Yes, but more importantly, I am the guitar player.
enthusiastic about it, and show true desire, then I’m sure their dad is going to help them out.
What memories do you have of Oz? Well amongst other things, the people are always so chipper and friendly. I have a lot of good memories of Bondi beach and trying my first proper Aussie hamburger with beetroot.
So you’d get behind a Hanson 2.0? Well, I would advise them to be a bit more original with their name. You know, as if their dad’s band name wasn’t already original enough.
Has the music changed over the years? Well I definitely think for someone who hasn’t had the chance to catch up on what Hanson have been doing in the last 15 years, if you’re only familiar with MMMBop and Where is the Love, then you might feel like there is a very big change. But in many ways, much of the DNA of the band has maintained the same. And how would you describe that? From the beginning there were always strong ties to late Fifties, early Sixties rock n roll, and even Motown music. And that remains true even today with the new album, Shout it Out. Do you encourage your kids musically? I would never encourage them to play music. If they’re going to be a musician, they’re going to have to do it on their own. If they are
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Plus you’re still around – ever gonna retire? Oh, I hope not. We’re just a few years young as far as I am concerned. What advice do you have for the up and coming boy bands of today? I don’t know anything about boy bands of today! What about One Direction, are you jealous of their hair? I have no idea! (Laughs.) What I can say is that as a musician, there are a lot of challenges. First and foremost, you better know who you are and you better be willing to stick to it, because at the end of the day, everyone moves on from you – yes, even your hair – in some way or another. Is it true you have a line of beer? We do, it’s in the brewing stages, we’re developing the flavour, shall we say. The working
Who gets the most attention from fans? Well I think it’s fairly even. But I guess because Taylor sings a lot of lead, there’s always been a tendency for him to get a little more attention. Is there much rivalry between brothers? Sure there are plenty of arguments and plenty of bruises – literally and figuratively. But we also have a lot of respect for each other. I think because we started out so young and we’re pretty positive, upbeat guys, then people mistake us for being shiny, happy people and think that we have no conflict. We just grew up being taught not to air your dirty laundry in public, and that remains to be true. Come on, give me some dirt on Hanson Dirt? Well there’s been times where I haven’t showered for a couple of days, that’s pretty dirty. Hm, okay. Who would win in a fight between Batman and Spideman? Batman. Because he is really dark. And kind of evil. There is a really sinister side to Batman. I consider myself to be Batman. Wish I had time to talk about your dark side! Oh yeah, I’m evil. Catch Hanson in Adelaide (Sept 13) Melbourne (Sept 14), Sydney (Sept 16), Coolangatta (Sept hanson.net 21) and Fremantle (Sept 22)
FILMREVIEW
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MOONRISE KINGDOM FILM review by Caitlin Stanway STARRING: Bruce Willis, Edward Norton, Bill Murry, Frances McDormand /PG/ 93mins
DAMSELS IN DISTRESS FILM preview STARRING: Greta Gerwig, Adam Brody | M |
A trio of hot young women set out to make some changes to their male dominated campus of Seven Oaks – starting with the smell! On a mission to save their fellow students from below par standards and depression, the girls in this comedy should get some laughs. Rave reviews and a limited release period make this a definite must see! Out now
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With young love, misfits and a troupe of die-hard boy scouts, Moonrise Kingdom’s enchanting subplots are outdone only by it’s intimidating cast of Hollywood heavyweights. Set on an island off the coast of New England in the summer of 1965, Wes Anderson (who wrote The Darjeeling Limited) tells us the unlikely love story of orphaned Sam (Jared Gilman) and rebellious Suzie (Kara Hayward), two 12 year old outcasts who make good on a pact to run away together. Their efforts are thwarted by Scout Master Ward (an endearing Edward Norton) and the local sheriff, Captain Sharpe (Bruce Willis) who together with Suzie’s parents launch a search party for the love struck duo. Between blood hungry boy scouts (think Lord of the Flies), an oncoming hurricane and a hard-arse social services worker, the subplots that manoeuvre this tale sit firmly on the fence of ridiculous. While the outrageousness of the twists could have easily turned the film into a mess, the theatrical storytelling only adds to the general nostalgic charm of the film. Anderson seems to have perfected the balance between emotion and comedy, seamlessly translating what could have been a cheesy family film into a quirky, artistic tale. With the whimsical visuals and hilariously heart warming script, Moonrise Kingdom is everything you want in a film about childhood sweethearts. . GOOD FOR: The most innocent fun you can have in a cinema
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Dark side of the tune The comedian, actor, singer, pianist, writer, composer and rock n roll nerd Tim Minchin returns home for the Homebake Festival WORDS GAVIN FERNANDO
Hunched over a grand piano with exaggerated dark-eye makeup, his long hair lathered with hairspray and splattered in a thousand different directions, the only thing AustralianBritish comedy legend Tim Minchin seems to be missing is subtlety. Well – and shoes. He takes the stage, giving the impression of a semi-deluded yet incomprehensibly classy nerd-turned-rockstar, and strikes a polite enough C-major chord before proclaiming, “Praise be to magic-Woody-Allenzombie-Jesus!” to a crowd roaring with laughter. But Minchin’s memorable image is just an embodiment of his unique and outspoken manner of performing. The eccentric Perth-born performer is a rare combination of musician and comedian who keeps his audience moving to the beat whilst laughing their heads off at his blunt and unapologetic wordplay. Since the early 2000's he has successfully built a name for himself by treading the line between satire, theatre and genuine music. He is also well-known for producing passionately critical material with a million punch-lines per minute. He says his appeal to his audience is about striking the right balance between the enthusiasm for music and the emotional trigger of theatre. “I think the most gratifying type of performance is when the audience is locked in and you can manipulate them, have a conversation with them and rely on them to listen if you want to have a rant. To get all those laughs out of challenging material is brilliant.” The outlandish singer-songwriter/comedian will return to Australia to perform at Sydney’s Homebake Festival for the first time, promising a classic rock and roll gig filled with not-so-classic Minchin ingredients – blunt sarcasm, hilarity, and some healthy ranting thumped out just hard enough to strike fury in the hearts of conservatives everywhere. As such, critics are divided over his unique performance style. On one hand, The Guardian describes him as an ultimately intelligent artist stating, “Funny songs are hard, but Minchin succeeds because he is relentlessly inventive.” On the other, The Telegraph chalked his outspoken lyrics
“
I've had people say I'm just a trendy, lefty athiest
”
up to “schoolboy irreverence.” But Minchin insists he doesn’t read the comments and certainly doesn’t aim to shock. He’s simply sure of the things he sings about, and has subsequently gained a large following of like-minded individuals. “I get frustrated when people find my stuff controversial if they haven’t properly listened to it. When I’m sure of something, I write them in ways that are thorough. "I’m cautious to make sure my arguments are clear. I’ve had people say I’m just a trendy, lefty atheist and it’s like, if you’ve got something to say, rise to the challenge and form a counter-argument. "The Pope Song, for example, seems like a blur of swearwords but if you listen, it justifies itself entirely.” As a staunch self-proclaimed atheist and skeptic, Minchin has constantly remained passionate about the issue, namely his disbelief in the correspondence of religion and rationality. A lot of his well-known material revolves around his critical stance on religious adherence, which he believes can be wrongfully used in attempt to justify injustice. “People whose beliefs are not formed with evidence are not going to be talked out of them with evidence. You’re arguing in a completely different language, but I just find it sad – and it angers me – that people make moral choices and judge people based on non-evidential belief systems.” For the Homebake Festival, Minchin intends on being less intimate and more upbeat and energetic. He insists that he’s completely obsessed with making sure people are going to have a good time, and is a huge fan of festival audiences. “These outdoor gigs are more simple fun. We have such
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Tim and Boy George perform onstage during the Prince's Trust Rock Gala
a good time and walk offstage completely sweating and pumped. There’s a critical mass of laughter that can just make the show take off – usually it’s having the right amount of drunk people, or the girl in Row B, Seat 4 with the really addictive, charming laugh.” The freedom and flexibility in structuring his various shows represents a man who has come a long way from the small solo comedy gigs he began developing in 2002 in Melbourne. He won the inaugural Festival Directors’ Award for his first break-out show Dark Side in 2005, became one of the Edinburgh Fringe’s most successful ever debut acts, and has since appeared in scores of festivals around the globe making a solid name for himself. As of today, he has performed sell-out shows all over Australia, has become a favourite at various UK festivals, and has performed on over a dozen TV shows across Australia, the UK and the US. He has released four successful live albums, three DVDs, and has worked as a stage actor and scriptwriter for various plays, most notably writing the music and lyrics for Matilda The Musical for the Royal Shakespeare Company in 2010. On his career, he says, “I’m incredibly grateful for all I have. I’m getting older and
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I’m still playing in pubs which is incredibly pleasing. I’d have been a very happy person if I’d just been a theatre composer or a lyricist. I was actually trying to be an actor when I first moved to Melbourne – but I just love this. It’s really freeing – I’ve just found my way into everything I wanted.” Ultimately, Minchin promises an entertaining show whether or not his audience is familiar with him. He goes above and beyond the standard rock gig, producing performances fused with the intellect, outspokenness and non-stop comedy gold that has kept him turning heads for years. “I want the audience to be there to have a good time, to be relaxed, to take what they’re offered. They’re not there to bring their own judgment. They come with me on my various rants – it’s really just like theatre. They’re up for a good time but ready to be emotionally affected. “This is the stuff we love – highoctane, unapologetic wanking-on musically. It’s the most pretentious, ridiculous, comedy rock gig you’ve ever seen.” ❚
Tim will perform at Homebake Music, Film & Arts Festival 2012: The Global edition on Saturday December 8th, 2012 at The Domain, Royal Botanic Garden, Sydney City homebake.com
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WEEKLY WINNER SUNSET SESSION: Clara Paganardi, 26, Italy CLARA SAYS: “This is a backpackers sunset in Carnavaron, WA” WE SAY: “We love the colour juxtaposition in this photograph between the orange of the setting sun, the pinkish hue of the clouds and the dark shadows of the people in the foreground. Also a lovely use of light and shade in the photographs composition. Great work!”
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has a texture – even if it is the absence of it. A smooth surface is just as tactile as a rough piece of wood. The trick is using that texture in a photo to its full potential to add depth to your composition.Textures are usually best lit from the side. For gentle textures like feathers or fur a soft, diffused light is good while hard textures like stone look better in a hard light. Photographing texture alone gives rise to great abstracts and surprising images of everyday scenes and objects.
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ON THE ROAD WITH TRAVEL
TALK Oskari Vaittinen 25, Finland WHY DID YOU COME TO AUSTRALIA? I met this awesome girl in Finland and she told me that she was going to head to Australia soon and asked if I would like to come with her. So I packed my things and here I am now, having the time of my life.
Quokking good stuff
YOU ASKED FOR IT... WE ANSWER YOUR TRAVEL QUESTIONS
I check out Rottnest Island? Q Should Paul Ashbee, UK numerous daily ferries running from A With Fremantle and Perth, Rottnest Island has become something of a must for backpackers and tourists alike visiting Western Australia. Named in the 17th century for its distinctive rodent like fauna – the quokka, Rottnest Island’s checkered penal past is not the only draw card this place has to offer. With crystal clear water and boundless sandy white beaches the majority of visitors to Rottnest come for its many marine activities. With some of the southern most coral to be found anywhere in the world the snorkeling and diving oppurtunities are only equalled by those offered on the Great Barrier Reef. Surfers too can find clean breaks on the Islands southern coast. With lots of bars, restaurants and cheap accomodation the fun doesn’t need to stop after the sun goes down. What with the Island only being 11km long and
5km wide, everywhere is easily accesible using the island’s chosen mode of transportation: the bicycle which can be readily hired at the main settlement Thompsons Bay or brought over personally on the ferry. If you’re in WA then Rottnest Island is a place you simply must go! good to go for a fairly cheap Q Where’s night out in Bondi? Alexandra Roman, USA Fair to say that if you’re looking for
A cheapish pub food and cold beer avoid the South End. Places like Icebergs, the Bavarian Bier Cafe and Ravesis cost an absolute arm and a leg. You’re best sticking to either the Beach Road Hotel (which is usually best on a Wednesday night) or the Bondi Hotel which is infamous throughout the area for being open the latest and being the loudest/most back-packer friendly. Or just pop into Nirvana Liquor across the road and say ‘Hi’ to Rob, tell him Hugh sent you!
CHECKING IN BIG SYDNEY Located in the city centre the hostel is ideally placed for many fun nightspots. Retail and supermarket stores are a short walk away, and for those lazy days Dominoes is only a couple OVERVIEW
YOUR FAVOURITE PLACE? Noosa! I’ve met so many great people and it’s a really laid back place, perfect for relaxing! CRAZIEST EXPERIENCE? It is hard to say because everything here is so different to Scandinavia. MET ANY AUSSIE ANIMALS? Yes: koalas, possums, kangaroos and wallabies! Koalas are the best – they are just hanging out, living the life! WHAT’S ON THE WISHLIST? Melbourne, because everybody says it is the best city here. BIGGEST SURPRISE? Everybody here has been really friendly and helpful to me on the street. It’s really easy to chat with the locals! MOST OVER-RATED PLACE? Maybe the first hostel in Sydney. That place wasn’t so good.
doors down. BIG provides free daily breakfast, free wireless and mini-lockers for valuables too. ROOMS All private rooms are equipped with TV and DVDs, providing a few home comforts. BILL PLEASE 8-bed dorms are $30p/n, weekly rates also offered. 212 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills
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TRAVELLERSTALES A FEAST OF FRASER
NICKY UNDERWOOD could have created her own crime-solving TV show while on Fraser Island... We began our journey from Rainbow Beach to Fraser Island bright and early, and what a journey it was.
Smoothly, we began to roam across the sand beast, only for trouble to start. The car behind us broke down completely, causing an unexpected pit stop in the middle of the bush. Refusing to start, the passengers had to sit and wait it out for a mechanic whilst the rest of us were shown to our first lake of the island. After a couple of hours in the sun, we were a) wondering where the broken down group had got to and b) hungry. The waiting and hunger was clearly troubling us and so we created art in the sand to distract us, beginning with a sand BBQ, joined by a mini Stonehenge, a heart, a castle and a fort to protect the BBQ rounded off with a dead fish placed on the grill and voila... we had our very own Salvador Dali. Eventually we left the lake to
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set up camp just next to the beach (but obviously still on the sand). I jumped out of the car, leaving my handbag on the seat. I didn’t need it to set up tents. So tents all put up, I returned to reunite with my bag and it had gone! Trouble had reared its ugly head again. Don’t panic, don’t panic. Okay, it’s dark and things have moved, just grab a torch and have a look around. After looking for what felt like forever, I jumped out of the car again and, “Hello Mr Dingo”. Run! Everyone’s shouting “Dingo” at me. “Why do you think I’m running?!”, I shouted back. Luckily he wasn’t too interested in my lack of food. I shared my bag-missing woes with the group but no one had seen it. Everyone advised to wait till morning for light. The next morning I’m the only one on the camp awoken by sunrise – hunt for bag time. Nope, it’s not here. No one has taken it by mistake and dingoes wouldn’t have been bothered about it. So whilst everyone is at the creek, our guide drove me and (trouble
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again) a guy who had cut his thumb open to the ambulance station. They fixed him up and he fainted. Whilst they’re helping him, I’m phoning the police to cancel my bank cards. All done and time to try and not worry how I’m going to make it up to Cairns without any money, phone or ID. Solemnly, I get back in the car for the bumpiest journey of my life with (appropriately) Incubus’ ‘Drive’ cranked to full volume. A very long, bouncy journey across the beach returned us to camp. After dinner, one of our group was in the tent and had felt something hard underneath it. “Nicky! Quick, come here.” I ran faster than ever before. “Is this your bag under the tent?” Please don’t joke. Lo and behold she reaches under the tent and there, buried snugly in the sand, is my bag. It had attached itself to a tent bag in the car and someone had pitched a tent on top of it. The irony being that this was the last tent available and the tent I was invited to sleep in. I had been sleeping on my bag the whole time. Troubles over for now and I began to enjoy the rest of my time on Fraser. Despite the drama and the following weeks of endless sand in my bag, my trip to Fraser was incredible and I would do it all over again given the chance.
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WIN A THREE DAY GOLD COAST SEVENS EXTRAVAGANZA! Rugby Sevens comes alive on the Gold Coast this October. The 2012/13 HSBC Sevens World Series kicks off with the “Gold Coast Sevens – Fever Pitch” tournament which is set to thrill over two days of action on and off the field at Skilled Park. Sixteen teams from around the globe will battle it out in a carnival of fun, fast and furious entertainment. It’s one of the world’s most competitive and unique sporting events, and it’s coming to the heart of the vibrant Gold Coast. Already famous for fancy dress, music and dancing, this is an event not to be missed.
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Ningaloo Reef WESTERN AUSTRALIA
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Big friendly giants From Exmouth to Coral Bay, the Ningaloo Reef is one of the best in the world, and allows you to get cosy with its transient whale sharks WORDS STEPHANIE WILLIAMS
Hidden away in remote and dusty Western Australia, Ningaloo Reef should be on everyone’s bucket list. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage Listed site, and for my money, it’s up there with the best marine environments in the world. Less busy than it’s eastern counterpart, the Great Barrier Reef, it’s stunning location, friendly locals, great pubs and hostels and of course marine life, draws the punters in. Whale sharks are huge and dive to incredible depths, and as a result no one knows exactly how they reproduce or pup, but they do appear every year from April to July near the surface at Ningaloo Reef, one of only a few places around the world where you can jump in and swim with them.
WHAT DO DO:Ocean Eco Adventures run whale shark swims daily in season. Costs $395 including lunch, transfers and DVD (oceanecoadventures. com.au). Quad Bike tours in Coral Bay start at $95. (coralboytours.com.au). Sail Ningaloo host live aboard diving and snorkelling trips from $1,550 for a three days, with meals and gear hire. (sailningaloo.com.au) WHERE TO STAY: Beds at Blue Reef Backpackers in Exmouth from $31per night. (aspenparks.com.au)
The legs start pumping like there’s no tomorrow, heart beating out of my chest and I’m sucking the air back like it’s my last. It looks as though we have found one. Our small group is churning their fins through the water, giving chase to a seven metre young male whale shark. Even though the water is clear blue, there are fins and body parts flailing about and all I can see are bubbles and butts. I veer off to the side of the group to escape the churn, and then I see it. My first glimpse of the biggest fish I have ever seen in my life. Momentarily entranced by the beast, I realise it’s pretty much coming right for me. A bit of bicycle kick manoeuvring and I’m out of the way and enjoying the spectacle of him swimming past only three metres in front of me.
Up close and personal
Photos: Tourism WA, Sail Ningaloo, James Marten-Coney
Swimming with the whale sharks is big business in Exmouth, the main town in the area, with a number of companies looking to take you out for the day. I choose Ocean Eco Adventures, who are on the pricier end, but I’m not disappointed. Their major selling point is the fact they employ their own, exclusive spotter plane to find whale sharks each day, whereas the other companies all share a plane. It’s not make or break, but on a busy day out, it means you aren’t all targeting one or two sharks. Owner Andy Edwards is up to his 17th whale shark season and provides all the gear you’ll need. He even edits and sends you a DVD of the day to remember your day – I’m sold. Everyone on the boat is pumped. There’s a definite mix of water ability so we head out for a warm up snorkel to see how we all fare. After seeing a stingray, a school of parrot fish and loads of colourful little fish we all pass and get back on board to head out to sea. The two spotter planes are circling above us in the sky and before long Andy yells “We’ve got one!” Scrambling for fins and masks, it’s on!
The creatures of the land are pretty cute too
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Captivated by the majestic whale shark, I only tear my eyes away when I accidentally suck seawater through my snorkel in the excitement. It was a blessing though, as the spotters on the boat are yelling, “There’s another one, to your left” and
madly pointing out beside me. My head goes back down and I’m in a whale shark sandwich – trailing our original shark at the same time as being circled by another six-metre creature. You may see more than one shark in a day, but I’m later told it’s very rare to see two swimming together. It’s an incredible day out, topped off with a double manta ray swim on the way home.
town and I quickly get into the casual swing of things. Exmouth began in 1964 as a naval base, when the Americans came in to set up huge submarine communication towers (which are still active) and flew 3,000 servicemen in to work on the now disused base. One of the legacies of their time is the Navy Pier, which is now consistently voted one of the top ten dive sites in the world. Wes from Ningaloo Whaleshark ‘N’ Dive, the only company allowed out on the Pier, took my travel buddy out and he reported back it was one of the best dives he has done, which, based on his dive card, is pretty impressive. There are two pubs and three backpacker hostels in town. I’m told by our deckhand that the Potshot Hotel is where the locals drink and Gracie’s Tavern is for the rest, but for research sake, of course, I try both and there’s a fair mix of locals and blow-ins. Gracie’s is the pick for a night out. Wes also imparted some valuable local knowledge – a trip to Blue Lips fish and chips. And what a tip – it’s the best I’ve eaten in Australia, incredibly fresh fish and crunchy chips. Also try Whaler’s Restaurant for fresh local seafood, gumbo and pasta and Pinnochio’s for a pizza, ribs and live music.
Exit stage to Exmouth
All fours on Coral Bay
Situated on the North West Cape, a measly 13 hour drive from Perth, Exmouth feels like a world away. Barren, red, dusty earth meets the shallow turquoise water. Locals are friendly and fun, and thongs are all you need. It’s a very laid back
Ninety minutes south of Exmouth lies the even tinier town of Coral Bay. A one street set-up, it’s small but loads of fun. Ningaloo Club Backpackers is a good spot to set up base, in the centre of town. Driving in I notice a lineup of quad
“
My head goes back down and I’m in a whale sandwhich
”
This must be underwater love
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What lies beneath: Ningaloo Marine Park
Your Ningaloo Blue Whale Shark Eco Tour includes: o Snorkel the Ningaloo Reef and Whaleshark with all gear provided. o Morning tea buffet lunch, (vegetarian catered for daily), fruit platter plus refreshments. o No Sighting Policy - if you dont see a Whale-Shark go again free ticket valid for 3 years. o Videographer on board take a memoir home of your special day (additional cost). o Complimentary Gift Pack including certificate stating the day you swam with your first Whaleshark. o Age is no problem for us,we have as young as 4 years up wards. o Plus a Safety Zodiac beside swims whilst in the water.
Visit www.ningalooblue.com.au or email toursningalooblue.com.au or phone +61 8 9949 1119 TNTDOWNUNDER.COM
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Just outside of Exmouth, the sunset is calling
bikes next to the hostel advertising a sunset dune ride and immediately book a spot. Before I know it, I’m in a helmet screaming through the dunes of Coral Bay. The two hour trip goes so quickly but it’s an awesome ride. Then it’s off to the pub to toast the dying moments of the incredible sunset in the huge beer garden overlooking the reef. Days here are spent snorkelling, lounging in the shallow waters of Coral Bay, fishing, and taking manta ray tours out to the reef. You can also take a day trip into the Cape Range National Park, a red dusty escarpment full of rock wallabies, bush figs and kangaroos. The Mandu Mandu Gorge walk is excellent for rock wallaby spotting, or the Yardie Creek boat tour for a relaxing cruise up the only fresh waterway in the National Park. Take your swimmers as the reef is so close to the roadside you will want to jump in a few times on the way. The reef is now protected by a World Heritage listing, which shows how significant this marine park is for both Australia and internationally. It’s an incredible holiday for all budgets – swimming, snorkelling, hiking, eating seafood – and fast becoming one of Australia’s iconic destinations.
One last stop After a day or so in Coral Bay, I decided to splash some cash and book a few nights on a live aboard catamaran. Luke and Lannie Riley, owners of Sail Ningaloo are the ultimate hosts. Young and vibrant, they know Ningaloo Reef inside out. They’ve identified and named loads of snorkel sites themselves and I spend three incredible days trailing up and down the Reef swimming with everything from endangered loggerhead turtles, guitar nosed sharks, reef sharks, lion fish and even little Nemo, the clownfish. ❚ 36
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Spotting guitar nosed sharks
S Situated in the heart of Walpole, Western Australia, this homely lodge is perfectly llocated for visiting the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk, the Giant Tingle Tree, sspectacular beaches and wilderness inlets. Offers a fully equipped kitchen, TV/DVD rroom, laundry, pool table, free wifi, tea & coffee. D Dorm beds from $26 (per person per night) Twin/Double share from $32.50 (per person per night) T Private from $42.50 (per person per night) P SPECIALS: Stay 3 nights & only pay for 2 offer is available all year except school holidays and long weekends. Our contact info for bookings & enquiries is Cnr Pier Street & Park Avenue Walpole WA 6398 Ph: (08) 9840 1244 email: info@walpolelodge.com.au www.walpolelodge.com.au
Don’t miss the show. 35,000 Whales. One Boat. Only 20 minutes off the coast
PERTH WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Call (08) 9325 1191 www.whalewatchingwa.com.au Cruise a major whale migration route that runs near Perth’s shores - the largest migration in the southern hemisphere! Save 20% off our two-hour whale watch cruise when booking online. Simply enter the promotion code: ‘wwtnt2012’ when booking. Visit www.whalewatchingwa.com.au for more info! Special offer only available online and cannot be used in conjunction with any other deals. Discounts are off the regular Adult and Concession fares. A valid Concession card must be presented at check-in for Concession fare bookings. TNTDOWNUNDER.COM
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DA DA. A
TRAVELWEEKENDER
Jump around This is Auckland in 48 hours WORDS CAITLIN STANWAY
DAY 1: There is a reason New Zealand has a reputation as an adventurer's paradise, and the harbourside city of Auckland doesn't dissapoint. Even though Spiderman would be intimidated by the amount of things jump off, Auckland is more than just an adrenaline junkies playground. After 48 hours in Auckland's underground bars, art filled sidestreets and wild islands, (not to mention jumping into oblivion) you won't know which way is up! 9:00 Roll on into the CBD and ditch your gear for storage at Queen Street Backpackers (qsb.co.nz). With the load off your back it's time to get the day on the way, and with an action packed line up ahead, coffee is the first stop. Wander down the road to Ben's Cafe, where their award winning brews will be sure get the senses firing. 11:00 Now you've got the caffeine fix sorted, it's time to put Auckland's 'Action Capital' reputation to the test. Head over to the Harbour Bridge where bungy originals AJ Hackett Bungy started the world's first harbour bridge jump at Auckland Bridge Climb and Bungy (bungy.co.nz). If you can't quite wrap your head around launching off a bridge, join the 1.5 hour bridge climb where you'll soak in Waitemata Harbour with your feet firmly on the ground. 13:00: Back on terra firma you'll be keen to settle those jangling nerves! Head to Freddy's Ice House (freddysicehouse.co.nz), Auckland's only ice bar, where everything from the glassware to the bar is completely made of ice. Wrapped up in the warm clothing the bar provides,
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get stuck into icy cocktails or shots from the J채ger Ice Luge. 15:00 Time to work off those brews! Head up the road to Okahu Bay where Fergs Kayacks's (fergskayacks.co.nz) guided tour will take you paddling accross the harbour to the stunning marine villiage of Devonport. If you 're still feeling energetic, climb North Head for views over Hauraki Gulf and the city. If it's feeling like mission impossible, take it easy with a meander through the local galleries and cafe's 18:00: After a short paddle home from Devonport drag yourself back to the hostel to check in, grab a drink and get ready to hit the town. Refreshed and ready to go, make your way to the Kings Arms Tavern (kingsarms.co.nz) where daily live music and a massive beer garden make this iconic pub the perfect place to kick of your night. 21:00 Take your night up a gear as you leave the lazy garden behind and head to K'Road, Auckland's vibrant nightlife hub. Catch the latest indie bands at Studio (studiovenue.co.nz) or if house beats are more your thing check out Super Club (superclub.co.nz) and break out the moves for a massive night. DAY 2: 8:30: Up and at 'em! Clear the head with a walk over to Ponsby Road (ponsbyroad.co.nz) where Auckland's self proclaimed 'hippest strip' will sort you out with a retro holein-the-wall cafe perfect for a hangover feed. If you're here on a Saturday, pick up some vintage threads and local produce at the Ponsby Road Markets. 11:00 If brekkie wasn't quite enough to fix last nights
BRIDGE CLIMB aftermath, brace yourself for the ultimate hangover cure. With nothing but thin air below you, a quick freefall with Skydive Auckland (skydiveauckland.co.nz) will sort you out. At 16,500 ft, the jump will give you the ultimate view of Auckland and is a must to top off your adventure holiday. 13:00: Back down to earth it's time to get in touch with nature and experience some of New Zealand's infamous landscapes. Jump on a ferry and head to Rangitoto Island (rangitoto.org). Formed after a series of volcano eruptions, the island's 10 nature walks will take you ambling through ancient lava fields and trekking up dormant volcanos. 15:00: Keep the heritage ball rolling back on the mainland with a trip to the Auckland Museum (aucklandmuseum. com). Learn the story of New Zealand's rich history with some of the most significant Maori taonga (treasures) in the world housed in the Maori Court. 17:00: After all that culture treading, give your brain a break and soak up the best of this harbourside city at it's favourite beachside suburb, Mission Bay (missionbay.co.nz). Take in the sunset and put Fish Pot Cafe's award winning seafood to the test with fish and chips on the beach. 19:00: When the last of the days rays have dissapeared over the horizon and you've sauntered back to the CBD, duck into the Wine Cellar in St Kevins Arcade. With sultry indie tunes and an intimidating range of vino (you'd never guess right?) this underground bar is the perfect place to settle in and let your last night unfold.
EXPERIENCE AUCKLAND’S MOST MAGNIFICENT VIEW
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LEAVE AUCKLAND WITH NO REGRETS
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Good dogs: blue heelers
OWNER DIES, DOG SURVIVES FOR MONTH AUSTRALIA
A brave blue heeler was found trapped in a toilet in a house after surviving for a month after his owner died. Basil’s survival instincts kicked in and he rummaged around for food, finding a bag of dog treats in the kitchen. The K9 also discovered the best source of water was from the toilet – but managed to wedge the door shut, tapping himself inside. Neighbours became suspicious when they hadn’t seen his owner – who died of natural causes – for weeks. Upon investigation, they found a thin Basil. “He was very, very hungry,” Colin Peterson said.
GINGERS CELEBRATE BEING, ER, GINGER HOLLAND
Some 1400 redheads got together at a festival celebrating red hair in the Netherlands. Less than two per cent of the world’s population are blessed with ginger locks, and at a festival in Breda, Holland, they got together for the annual event. Many of the festival attendees, from all over Europe, chose to wear green, perhaps as a nod to Irish heritage. The festival, known as ‘Roodharigan’, was attended by about 1400 gingers from 52 countries, and took over Breda city centre in Grote Markt square. Events included large group photo shoots, fashion shows and ladies dressing as mermaids in a tribute to the Disney classic The Little Mermaid. Roodharigan’s official website promises that “walking in the middle of all these redheads is something special”.
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In danger: World Wildlife Fund Australia has warned the black-flanked rock wallaby faces extinction unless action is taken to stop them being killed by foxes and feral cats
AIRLINE PASSENGER BITTEN BY SPIDER UNITED STATES
A woman was left with a fist-sized “oozing mass” on her thigh after she was bitten by a spider on a Delta Airlines flight. Brandi DeLao, 38, had a nap on her flight from Atlanta to South Africa, but woke up after she felt a pain in her leg. She sought medical help after becoming feverish. After three operations, doctors finally managed to extract the venom.
The bite came from a deadly brown recluse spider, otherwise known as a violin spider, one of the most deadly creatures native to North America. “I would not wish that on my worst enemy for anything,” DeLao said. “It was horrible.” Delta spokesman Betsy Talton said that the aircraft had been checked: “The aircraft also was inspected after her flight and no infestation was found.”
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THIS WEEK
IN NUMBERS Length, in feet, of python that slithered and stayed in the engine of a car for three miles at Kruger National park, SA
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Time, in hours, spent by artist Simon Beck, creating each huge ‘crop circle’ in the snow of the French Alps
‘Why did the emu cross the ... oh’
EMUS TO GET OWN SUBWAYS
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AUSTRALIA
Emus, the ‘big birds with little brains,’ are set to get their very own underpasses in New South Wales. The state roads authority is worried the rare creatures will soon be wiped out as they get splattered crossing the busy highway. In an attempt to protect numbers, there are plans to build underpasses – similar to tunnels for reptiles and koalas who head towards the highways – later this year. But Birdlife Australia representative Gary Whale said he was concerned the emu was too dumb to work out the tunnel was the best way to go to avoid being hit by a vehicle. “There is no evidence that emus have ever gone through an underpass.”
MUM OF 12 GIVES BIRTH TO FIVE
Photos: AAP; Thinkstock; Getty
AUSTRALIA
A mum of 12 has given birth to quintuplets – taking her brood to 16. The woman gave birth to two boys and three girls at Monash Medical Centre, but one of the girls has died. A spokesman confirmed four babies were delivered healthy. “One unfortunately did not make it,” he told AAP. “Mum is doing well.” The babies were delivered by caesarean section by a team of 30 specialists. The 48-year-old, who conceived naturally, already has 12 children. The
Number of fake US$50 bills a 35-year-old man tried to swallow after police caught him with fake cash in New York
Age, in years, of glamorous grandmother Marion Finlayson, who returned to the catwalk in Scotland
Record breaker: message in bottle chances of conceiving quintuplets naturally is about one in 55 million, doctors say. It is the first set of quintuplets born in Victoria in three decades.
MESSAGE IN BOTTLE FOUND AFTER 98YRS SCOTLAND
It was scooped up from the sea after 98 years, and now officials say a message in a bottle discovered in Scotland has set a world record. Fisherman Andrew Leaper found the bottle – released in 1914 – in his nets while sailing east of the Shetland Islands, which lie off Scotland’s northern coast. Guinness World Records confirmed the find is the oldest message in a bottle, beating a previous record by five years. It was released in a batch of 1890 bottles in a government experiment to map the undercurrents of the seas around Scotland.
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QUOTE OF THE WEEK All those actors that tell you they don’t like seeing themselves on screen are lying Hollywood actor Samuel L Jackson is happy to watch his own films
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OUR VIEW COMMENT: HUGH RADOJEV Email: hugh@tntdownunder.com
Not a happy Novak...
What ever happened to playing for the love of the game? How our love of sport is making athletes love sport less
» Agree or disagree? Are athletes only playing for money? hugh@tntdownunder.com
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Lets face facts: commercial television was never exactly the bees knees to begin with. Even if it was simply an escape from your long day hard at work, where bland and inoffensive TV becomes key to zoning out. However, the hateful bilge being pumped out nightly on Australian prime time television quite literally beggars belief! Worst of all is Channel 7’s flagship X Factor which continues its enduring quest to simultaneously find an Australian boy band (as if that fad wasn’t bad enough
that fad was bad “enough in the 90s ” in the 90s) and resuscitate the careers of some of the music industry’s most dubiously talented individuals (yes Ronan whateveryourfaceis, I’m talking to you!) I don’t understand why anyone would bother making such a show and I understand even less why anybody would possibly bother to watch it.
Photos: Getty Images
Even amongst the glitz and glamour of tennis’ highest profile hard-court tournament, The US Open, all is not well behind the five-star penthouse suite doors and dark-tinted limousine windows. Rumours of a player boycott have surfaced amongst the sports top male talent – the players aren’t happy with the prize money on offer at the major tournaments. The prime focus of the players wrath appears to be focused upon the Australian Open, which is perplexing, considering the Open is the best paying of the major tournaments with around $26 million to split between the field. Even if you crash out in the first round, chances are you won’t go home empty handed. Stranger still, it’s the men who are complaining considering that in all tournaments; major and minor, the prize money is much greater for players like Novak Djokavic, Andy Murray and Rafa Nadal then it is for Serena Williams or Samantha Stosur. The proposed boycott raises a question, which goes beyond tennis to strike at the very heart of perhaps all professional sport: are modern day athletes just greedy? On the weight of probability the answer would almost certainly have to be yes. We live in a world where professional football players in Europe take home over $100,000 a week, some of them playing in countries whose GDP has crumbled in the last few years and who have 10-15 per cent unemployment amongst its citizens, yet still complain they are undervalued by their clubs. Even in less lucrative sports, like cricket where the average annual income for an international test player can be worked out without the use of a scientific calculator, the huge sums offered by advertisers and endorsements still allowed Australia’s future captain to buy his missus an Aston Martin and a Bondi penthouse. So yes, athletes probably are greedy but it seems they can afford to be. What would our weekends be without them?
THE DEATH OF TV AS WE USED TO KNOW IT
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BARBA VOTED NRL’S PLAYER OF 2012 RUGBY LEAGUE
Canterbury Bulldogs fullback Ben Barba’s untouchable form this season was capped off with an incredible five gongs at the annual Dally M awards, including the top gong. Barba’s recognition as the competition’s best player was never in doubt with the Canterbury number one finishing six points clear of second-placed Matt Bowen. The 23-year-old (above) also went home as the fullback of the year, the people’s choice player of 2012, equal top try-scorer (21 tries, with North Queensland’s Ash Graham) and winner of the Peter Frilingos headline moment (for scoring a freakish length-of-the-field try against the Storm in round 16).
GATLAND READY TO LEAD THE LIONS RUGBY UNION
New Zealander Warren Gatland said he was up for a “hell of a challenge” after being appointed head coach of the British and Irish Lions for next year’s tour of Australia. Gatland, an assistant coach when the Lions lost in South Africa in 2009, added: “Our ambition is to win the series in 2013. I believe we have the players to do that.” Gatland, who’s also in charge of Wales, will be the second overseas coach of the Lions following fellow Kiwi Graham Henry, who was in charge in 2001. The Welsh Rugby Union confirmed Gatland would be released from Wales duty to concentrate on the Lions. The Lions’ tour begins against the Barbarians in Hong Kong on June 1 before they play the first of three Tests against Australia in Brisbane on June 22.
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Winners are grinners: Tim Edmond (#31) of the Ohio Bobcats and teammates celebrate their 24-14 win over Nittany Lions at Beaver Stadium, Penn State. Football’s underway again in the US, with both the collegiate comp and the NFL kciking off last week
STOSUR HONOURED FOR HER “OLDSCHOOL” ATTITUDE
TENNIS
Dethroned champion Samantha Stosur has gained some consolation for her quarter-final defeat at Flushing Meadows, winning the inaugural US Open sportsmanship award. Former US Open runner-up Todd Martin, who presented the award, said the Aussie played tennis with old-school integrity “I am sure in your country as well, sportsmanship is not as prevalent as what it used to be,” the American said. “Tennis used to be played on the honour code, basically, and now it has conformed to professional sport where, ‘if I can sneak a point without blatantly cheating, then I have done well’.”
BIG WEEK FOR ... All Blacks coach Steve Hansen faces undoubtably his toughest Test of the year so far as his side meets South Africa in Dunedin (Sat, 8am. Sky Sports 1). The Springboks, like Los Pumas a week before, will do their darndest to win the forward battle, so expect Hansen to bring back Sam Whitelock after the rangy lock missed out on a starting berth last week. And, given the physical nature of the game, don’t be surprised to see rugged loosie
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QUOTES OF THE WEEK He calls himself the American Gangster, but he ratted out all his friends in that money laundering situation? That’s not gangster. He’s a punk UFC light heavyweight champ Jon Jones on rival Chael Sonnen. Those UFC guys sure pull no punches
Kiwi Sam Bewly will represent Orica GreenEDGE
PREVIEW Green? Yes, but hopefully they have the EDGE TOUR OF BRITAIN
ALL WEEK. NIGHTLY HIGHLIGHTS ON SBS
Thanks to Bradley Wiggin’s Tour de France and Olympics wins, cycling in Britain has never been on more of high. This week, the nation offers its own race, the Tour of Britain, in which Wiggo and a smattering of Aussies and Kiwis will be among the pelaton, pedalling as if their lives depended on it.
While Antipodeans will miss the chance to see Australia’s Cadel Evans, who’sout injured until 2013, they’ll be well represented by Team Orica-GreenEDGE, an Australian-based outfit. In only its first year, GreenEDGE is more than holding its own, winning stage events on a number of international tours – the latest Simon Clarke’s fourth-stage victory in August’s Tour of Spain.
THE CHAT | Sydney FC’s new boy this Del Piero chap that’s all the talk in Q Who’s Australian football circles? Is he any good?
I’ve put on a few more pounds than expected – seven. Seven! Then I remember: I drank a few bevvies while I was away Wayne Rooney: if it’s not prostitutes or his hair, it’s his weight. He makes RVP look like even more of a sponsor’s dream
TV HIGHLIGHTS GOLF
Photos: Getty Images
Italian Open AU$2m (£1.3m) a year – the biggest ever Australian A For sporting contract – the new Sydney FC marquee player had better be. Alessandro Del Piero (right) won the World Cup with Italy in 2006 as part of an international career that included 91 caps. He also won six Serie A titles and a Champions League medal with Juventus en route to scoring a club record 289 goals. Del Piero’s been there and done it all. Even at 37, he’s still class, and will provide invaluable leadership to his younger teammates. It’s hoped his quality will work wonders beyond Sydney FC, helping force football back into the spotlight in a crowded Australian sports market and attracting new supporters.
The world’s best head to Rome Thurs, 10.30pm. Fox Sports 1
RUGBY UNION Australia v Argentina Do the Wallabies have anything left? Sat, 8.30pm. Fox Sports 1
AFL Hawthorn v Collingwood Finals football from the MCG Fri, 8pm. Fox Footy 504
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OZLISTINGS TRAVEL AGENTS Adventure Travel Bugs 07 3236 3266, adventuretravelbugs.com Backpackers World Travel 1800 997 325 backpackersworld.com Peter Pans Adventure Travel 1800 669 424, peterpans.com.au Travellers Contact Point 1800 647 640, travellers.com.au Tribal Adventure Travel 1800 984 484, tribaltravel.com.au YHA Travel 02 9261 111, yha.com.au
TOUR FIRMS
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Bottom Bits Bus Tours around Tasmania 1800 777 103, bottombits.com.au
Maxi Ragamuffin Whitsundays sailing 1800 454 777 maxiaction.com.au
Bunyip Tours Tours around Victoria 1300 286 947, bunyiptours.com
Mojosurf Sydney to Byron surfing tours 1800 113 044, mojosurf.com
Cool Dingos Fraser Island Tours 1800 072 555, cooldingotour.com
Nullarbor Traveller Tours from Adelaide and Perth 1800 816 858, the-traveller.com.au
Explore Whitsundays Whitsundays packages 1800 675 790, explorewhitsundays.com
Ocean Rafting Whitsundays tours 07 4946 6848, oceanrafting.com
Mighty Cars and Campers (Formerly Backpacker Campervan Rentals) 1800 809 944 mightycampers.com.au
Oz Experience Hop on-hop off Australia-wide tours 1300 300 028, ozexperience.com
Boomerang Cars 0414 882 559, boomerangcars.com.au
Surfcamp Sydney to Byron surfing tours 1800 888 732, surfcamp.com.au
Hippie Camper 1800 777 779, hippiecamper.com
Groovy Grape Getaways Tours linking Adelaide, Alice Springs & Melbourne 1800 661 177, groovygrape.com.au Heading Bush Adelaide to Alice Springs outback tours 1800 639 933, headingbush.com
The Rock Tour Red centre tours 1800 246 345, therocktour.com.au
Adventure Tours Australia-wide tours 1800 068 886, adventuretours.com.au
Jump Tours Tours around Tasmania 0422 130 630, jumptours.com
Airliebeach.com Whitsundays packages 1800 677 119, airliebeach.com
Kakadu Dream Kakadu tours 1800 813 266, kakadudreams.com.au
Under Down Under Tours Tours around Tasmania 1800 064 726, underdownunder.com.au
Autopia Tours Tours around Victoria 03 9391 0261, autopiatours.com.au
Kangaroo Island Adventure Tours Adelaide to KI tours 13 13 01, kiadventuretours.com.au
Western Xposure WA tours 08 9414 8423, westernxposure.com.au
Awesome Adventures Oz Whitsundays packages 1800 293 7663, awesomeoz.com
Kangaroo Island Wildlife Adventures South Australia 1800 786 386, surfandsun.com.au
Wilderness 4WD Adventures Top end tours 1800 808 288, wildernessadventures.com.au
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Topdeck Tours covering all of Oz 1300 886 332, topdeck.travel
Wildlife Tours Tours around Victoria 1300 661 730, wildlifetours.com.au
RENTAL FIRMS Apollo Motorhomes 1800 777 779, apollocamper.com
Kings Cross Car Market For buying and selling vehicles. 110 Bourke St, Woolloomooloo. 02 9358 5000, carmarket.com.au Spaceships 1300 132 469, spaceshipsrentals.com.au Standbycars.com 1300 789 059, standbycars.com
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TRANSPORT CO Greyhound Australia Buses around Australia. 13 20 30, greyhound.com.au Jetstar Airline. 131 538, jetstar.com.au Premier Transport Group Buses along the east coast. 13 34 10, premierms.com.au Qantas Airline. 13 13 13, qantas.com.au Regional Express Airline. 13 17 13, rex.com.au Spirit of Tasmania Ferries to Tasmania. 03 6336 1446, spiritoftasmania.com Tiger Airways Airline. 03 9999 2888, tigerairways.com
Travellers Auto Barn 1800 674 374, travellers-autobarn.com.au
Redline Coaches For getting around Tasmania. 03 6336 1446, redlinecoaches.com.au
Wicked Campers 1800 246 869,
Virgin Australia Airline. 13 67 89, virginaustralia.com
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SYDNEY STAY Base Sydney 477 Kent St. CBD. 02 9267 7718 stayatbase.com Big Hostel 212 Elizabeth St. CBD. 02 9267 7718 bighostel.com Bounce Budget Hotel 28 Chalmers St. CBD. 02 9281 2222 bouncehotel.com.au Easy Go Backpackers 752 George St. CBD. 02 9211 0505, easygobackpackers.com.au City Resort Hostel 103-105 Palmer St. Woolloomooloo 02 9357 3333 cityresort.com.au Sydney Central YHA 11 Rawson Place. CBD. 02 9218 9000 Sydney Harbour YHA 110 Cumberland Street. The Rocks. 02 9261 1111 yha.com.au Westend Backpackers 412 Pitt St. CBD. 1800 013 186 nomadshostels.com
Boomerang Backpackers 141 William Street, Kings Cross. 02 8354 0488, boomerangbackpackers.com Dlux Hostel 30 Darlinghurst Rd, Kings Cross. 1800 236 213 dluxbudgethotel.com.au Kangaroo Bak Pak 665 South Dowling St. Surry Hills. 02 9261 1111 Avalon Beach Hostel 59 Avalon Pde, Avalon Beach. 02 9918 9709, avalonbeach.com.au Bondi YHA 63 Fletcher Street. Tamarama. 02 9365 2088, yha.com.au Lamrock Lodge 19 Lamrock Ave. Bondi. 02 9130 5063, lamrocklodge.com Lochner’s Guesthouse 8 Gowrae Ave. Bondi. 02 9387 2162, Aegean Coogee Lodge 40 Coogee Bay Rd. Coogee. 04 0817 6634, aegeancoogee.com.au Coogee Beach House 171 Arden St. Coogee. 02 9665 1162, coogeebeachhouse.com Coogee Beachside 178 Coogee Bay Rd, Coogee. 02 9315 8511,
sydneybeachside.com.au
tours. mysydneydetour.com
Surfside Backpackers 186 Arden Street. Coogee. 02 9315 7888, surfsidebackpackers.com.au
Oceanworld Manly West Esplanade. oceanworld.com.au
Glebe Point YHA 262-264 Glebe Point Road. Glebe. 02 9692 8418, yha.com.au Boardrider Backpacker Rear 63, The Corso, Manly. 02 9977 3411 boardrider.com.au The Bunkhouse 35 Pine St, Manly. 1800 657 122, bunkhouse.com.au Manly Backpackers 24-28 Raglan St. Manly. 02 9977 3411 manlybackpackers.com.au Cammeray Gardens 66 Palmer St, North Sydney. 02 9954 9371 sydneyboardinghouse.com Wake Up! 509 Pitt St, CBD. 02 9288 7888, wakeup.com.au
SYDNEY DO Manly Surf School Manly Beach. 02 9977 6977, manlysurfschool.com
Oxford Art Factory oxfordartfactory.com Sydney Opera House sydneyoperahouse.com The Annandale annandalehotel.com The Enmore enmoretheatre.com.au
Powerhouse Museum Darling Harbour. powerhousemuseum.com.au
The Metro metrotheatre.com.au
Skydive the Beach Wollongong. skydivethebeach.com
BLUE MTNS Blue Mountains YHA 207 Katoomba St, Katoomba. 02 4782 1416, yha.com.au
Sydney Olympic Park Darling Harbour. sydneyolympicpark.nsw.gov.au
CENTRAL COAST
Sydney Tower and Skytour 100 Market St, CBD. sydneyskytour.com.au
Newcastle Beach YHA 30 Pacific St, Newcastle. 02 4925 3544, yha.com.au
Sydney Harbour Bridge The Rocks. bridgeclimb.com Sydney Aquarium Darling Harbour. sydneyaquarium.com.au Sydney Wildlife World Darling Harbour. sydneywildlifeworld.com.au
Skydive Central Coast Warnervale. skydivethecentralcoast.com.au
Taronga Zoo Mosman. zoo.nsw.gov.au
BYRON BAY
Waves Surf School wavessurfschool.com.au
Maritime Museum Darling Harbour. anmm.gov.au My Sydney Detour Unique city
SYDNEY MUSIC Hordern Pavillion playbillvenues.com
Terrigal Beach YHA 9 Ocean View Dr, Terrigal. 02 4384 1919, yha.com.au
Backpackers Holiday Village 116 Jonson St 1800 350 388, byronbaybackpackers.com.au Backpackers Inn 29 Shirley St
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
FREE WI-FI FREE CONTINENTAL BREAKFAST FREE AIRPORT PICK UP* Bondi Shores quality hotel, motel, hostel, backpacker, bed and breakfast, student, long and short term accommodation with share facilities at affordable prices. If staying at Bondi Shores you will be conveniently located only minutes walk away from Campbell Parade (main street of Bondi Beach ), which features many popular cafes, restaurants and fantastic shops. Bondi Beach has it all.
BATEMANS BAY Located roughly four hours south of Sydney, Batemans Bay is the pride and joy of the south east coast of New South Wales. Often hailed as a popular tourist destination for people living in the nearby capital of Canberra, Batemans Bay has so much more to offer. Amongst the list of activities available, ‘The Bay’ is the most known location for relaxing, trekking or casual walks in the mountainous national parks. As this is a beachside town, there are many beaches littered across the coast – from shallow waters for the kids to more adventurous waves for the surfers. Fishing is all very popular with Batemans Bay holding several world and Australian records for game fishing. The native wildlife of Batemans Bay is incredibly diverse. Don’t freak out if you see kangaroos, wallabies, sea eagles, possums bandicoots and many colourfully bright parrots. Batemans Bay is the beachside holiday you’re in desperate need of.
Everything made easy for you at Bondi Shores: from entertainment advise to tours bookings. Just ask. So if you want to get the most out of your stay in Sydney, choose Bondi Shores Accommodation. The friendly staff will make sure you have memorable stay. We look forward to seeing you at Bondi Shores. CALL FREE 1800 33 00 10 (Australia wide) Or + 61 2 9130 6787 www.bondishores.com.au
* conditions apply
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follow us on Backpackers in Paradise 40 Peninsula Drive, Surfers Paradise. 1800 268 621, backpackersinparadise.com.au
DON’T MISS
Coolangatta Kirra Beach YHA Pl, 230 Coolangatta Rd, Bilinga. 07 5536 76442, yha.com.au Coolangatta Sands Hostel Cnr Griffiths & McLean Sts, Coolangatta. 07 5536 7472, coolangattasandshostel.com.au Gold Coast International BP 28 Hamilton Ave, Surfers. 1800 816 300, goldcoastbackpackers.com. au
DON’T MISS KELLY CLARKSON Entertainment Centre. 25 Sep. From $89 Miss Independant is heading downunder to show us why she’s the oridinal Idol. Don’t miss special guests The Fray.
Brisbane
Aussie Way Backpackers 34 Cricket St. 07 3369 0711, aussiewaybackpackers.com Banana Bender Backpackers 118 Petrie Terrace. 07 3367 1157, bananabenders.com Base Brisbane Embassy 214 Elizabeth St. 07 3166 8000, stayatbase.com Base Brisbane Central 308 Edward St. 07 3211 2433, stayatbase.com Brisbane Backpackers Resort 110 Vulture St, West End. 1800 626 452, brisbanebackpackers.com.au Brisbane City Backpackers 380 Upper Roma St 1800 062 572, citybackpackers.com Bunk Backpackers Cnr Ann & Gipps Sts, 1800 682 865, bunkbrisbane.com.au The Deck 117 Harcourt Street, New Farm. 04 3377 7061
Hi-Fi Brisbane 25 Sept. $44 The London based band are bringing their quirky pop tunes back to Aus in support of their fourth album Radlands.
Sleeping Inn Surfers 26 Peninsular Dr, Surfers Paradise. 1800 817 832, sleepinginn.com.au
ticketek.com.au
BRISBANE STAY
MYSTERY JETS
Islander Backpackers Resort 6 Beach Rd, Surfers Paradise. 1800 074 393, islander.com.au
Tinbilly Travellers Cnr George and Herschel Sts. 1800 446 646, tinbilly.com
BRISBANE DO Australia Zoo Glasshouse Mountains, Tourist Drive, Beerwah. 07 5436 2000, australiazoo.com.au Gallery of Modern Art 07 3840 7303, qag.qld.gov.au
Surfers Paradise Backpackers Resort 2837 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers. 1800 282 800, surfersparadisebackpackers.com.au Surfers Paradise YHA Mariners Cove, 70 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, Surfers Paradise. 07 5571 1776, yha.com.au Trekkers Backpackers 22 White St, Southport. 1800 100 004, trekkersbackpackers.com.au
GC DO
Riverlife Adventure Centre Kayaking & rock climbing. Lower River Terrace, Kangaroo Point. 07 3891 5766, riverlife.com.au
Dreamworld Theme park. dreamworld.com.au
Story Bridge Adventure Climb 170 Main St, Kangaroo Point. 1300 254 627, storybridgeadventureclimb.com.au
Seaworld seaworld.com.au
XXXX Ale House Brewery tours. Cnr Black & Paten St, Milton. 07 3361 7597, xxxxalehouse.com.au
GOLD COAST Aquarius Backpackers 44 Queen St, Surfers Paradise. 1800 22 99 55, aquariusbackpackers.com.au
Get Wet Surf School 07 5532 9907
Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World wetnwild.myfun.com.au Warener Bros Movie World movieworld.com.au Zorb 07 5547 6300
Brisbane
thehifi.com.au
75-77 Brisbane Rd, Mooloolaba. 1800 020 120 mooloolababackpackers.com Nomads Noosa 44 Noosa Dr, Noosa Heads. 1800 666 237, nomadshostels.com Halse Lodge YHA 2 Halse Lane, Noosa. 1800 242 567, halselodge.com.au
RAINBOW BEACH Dingos Backpacker Adventure Resort 20 Spectrum St. 1800 111 126, dingosresort.com Pippies Beach House 22 Spectrum St. 1800 425 356, pippiesbeachhouse.com Skydive Rainbow Beach 0418 218 358, skydiverainbowbeach.com
HERVEY BAY Aussie Woolshed 181 Torquay Rd 07 4124 0677
SUNSHINE CST Mooloolaba Backpackers
woolshedbackpackers.com Next at Hervey Bay 10 Bideford St. 1800 102 989,
nextbackpackers.com.au Nomads Hervey Bay 408 The Esplanade. 1800 666 237, nomadshostels.com Palace Backpackers 184 Torquay, 1800 063 168, palaceadventures.com.au
FRASER ISLAND Eurong Beach Resort 07 4120 1600, eurong.com.au Palace Adventures 184 Torquay St, Hervey Bay, 1800 063 168 palaceadventures.com.au
BUNDABERG Federal Backpackers 221 Bourbong St. 07 4153 3711 federalbackpackers.com.au Northside Backpackers 12 Queen St. 07 4154 1166 Bundaberg Bondstore Distillery tours. 07 4131 2999 bundabergrum.com.au
WORKERS WANTED
WORKERS WANTED WORKERS WANTED WORKERS WANTED WORKERS WANTED WORKERS WANTED
WORKERS WANTED
AYR NORTH QUEENSLAND
FOR FARM IN INNISFAIL.
AYR BACKPACKERS stay at Wilmington House
Free accommodation and food provided. Offers very good working and living conditions.
s /PEN AND AIRY 1UEENSLAND STYLE FOUR AND SIX BEDROOMS s )NTERNET #AFÏ s 0OOL ""1S AND TROPICAL GARDENS s 4ABLE TENNIS AND &2%% POOL TABLE s ,OCKERS s #LEAN COMFORTABLE QUIET AND FRIENDLY s 4RANSPORT PROVIDED TO WORK s &IVE MINUTE WALK TO MAIN STREET SHOPPING AND FAST FOOD STORE s &REE PICK UP FROM !YR BUS TERMINAL AND RAILWAY STATION s 6IDEO AND 46 ROOMS s &IVE FULL KITCHEN FACILITIES
PHONE 0437 692 002
WORKERS WANTED
Working Hostel of the Burdekin District
Call Mick & Daphne 07 4783 5837
WORKERS WANTED WORKERS WANTED WORKERS WANTED WORKERS WANTED WORKERS WANTED
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GET WET
IF YOUâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE LOOKING FOR SUMMER FUN THERE IS NO PLACE BETTER THAN THE BRISSIE SUN!
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SEAWORLD, THE GOLD COAST First established as a water skiing park, Sea World has become a marine park, a conservation area and a theme park all in one. With 15 water-themed rides, Sea World has been running for over 40 years and is still going strong. People are attracted to the stunning views and breathtaking sea life. From the very own Sea World helicopter, you can check out the beautiful local landscape from an amazing viewpoint. The seal shows will have you in stitches and the death-defying water skiing will leave you breathless and on the edge of your seat. With an underlying message of conservation and environmental awareness, Sea World provides more than just fun for the whole family â&#x20AC;&#x201C; itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also an educational experience. Swim with the sharks, take photos of the charismatic dolphins and dip your hands in the many rock pools littered around the park. But most of all â&#x20AC;&#x201C; donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be afraid to get wet!
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QLDLISTINGS TOWN OF 1770 1770 Backpackers 6 Captain Cook Dr. 1800 121 770, the1770backpackers.com
follow us on Arcadia Bay. 07 4778 5177 magnetic-island.com/arc-rsrt.htm Pleasure Divers 07 4778 5788
BOOK NOW
MISSION BEACH Absolute Backpackers 28 Wongaling Beach Road. 07 4068 8317, absolutebackpackers.com.au
1770 Undersea Adventures 1300 553 889, 1770underseaadventures.com
Scottyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Beach House 167 Reid Rd. 07 4068 8676, scottysbeachhouse.com.au
AIRLIE BEACH airliebeach.com 259 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 677 119
CAIRNS STAY Bohemia Central Cairns 100 Sheridan St. 1800 558 589, bohemiacentral.com.au
Airlie Beach YHA 394 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 247 251, yha.com.au
MATCHBOX TWENTY
Backpackers by the Bay 12 Hermitage Dr. 1800 646 994, backpackersbythebay.com Base Airlie Beach Resort 336 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 242 273, stayatbase.com Magnums Whitsunday Village Resort 366 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 624 634 magnums.com.au
BOWEN Bowen Backpackers Beach end of Herbert St. 07 4786 3433 bowenbackpackers.net
Brisbane Entertainment Centre. 27 Oct. From $109 The pop-rock veterans are back in Australia for the first time in four years, tickets will go quick so book now!
Fortitude Valley
triplej.yourevents.com.au/
TOWNSVILLE Adventurers Resort 79 Palmer St. 1800 211 522, adventurersresort.com Adrenalin Dive Yongala diving. 07 4724 0600, adrenalindive.com. au Yongala Dive Yongala diving. 07 4783 1519, yongaladive.com.au
MAGNETIC ISL Base Magnetic Island 1 Nelly Bay Rd. 1800 24 22 73, stayatbase.com Bungalow Bay Backpackers Horseshoe Bay. 1800 285 577, bungalowbay. com.au Hotel Arcadia 7 Marine Pde,
7/2+%23 7!.4%$ &RUIT AND 6EGETABLE PICKING JOBS AVAILABLE s 4RANSPORT TO FROM WORK s &2%% COURTESY BUS PICK UP s ,AUNDRY FACILITIES s )NTERNET FACILITIES s 0LEASANT AND FRIENDLY STAFF s "ISTRO AVAILABLE AT "ANJO S TAVERN NEXT DOOR
6!2)%49 /& 7/2+ !6!),!",% 9%!2 2/5.$ "REEZY 4ROPICAL VERANDAHS CLEAN FRIENDLY #LOSE TO SHOPS BANKS OLYMPIC POOL
&EDERAL "ACKPACKERS "OURBONG 3T "UNDABERG 1LD
0HONE WWW FEDERALBACKPACKERS COM AU FEDERALBACKPACKERS HOTMAIL COM #OMPLIES WITH ALL SAFETY REQUIREMENTS QUANTITY DEPENDS ON SEASON
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Bohemia Resort Cairns 231 McLeod St. 1800 155 353, bohemiaresort.com. au Calypso Backpackers 5 Digger St. 1800 815 628, calypsobackpackers.com.au JJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Backpackers Hostel 11 Charles St. 07 4051 7642, jjsbackpackers.com NJoy Backpackers Hostel Harbour 141 Sheridan St. 1800 807 055,njoy.net.au Nomads Beach House 239 Sheridan St. 1800 229 228,
@tnt_downunder nomadshostels.com
CAIRNS DO AJ Hackett Bungy jumping & canyon swinging. 1800 622 888 cairns.ajhackett.com Pro Dive 07 4031 5255 prodivecairns.com Raging Thunder Adventures Whitewater rafting. 07 4030 7990, ragingthunder.com.au Skydive Cairns 07 4052 1822, skydivecairns.com.au
CAPE TRIB Crocodylus Village Lot 5, Buchanan Creek Rd, Cow Bay. 07 4098 9166, crocodyluscapetrib.com PKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jungle Village Cnr Avalon & Cape Trib Rd. 1800 232 333, pksjunglevillage.com.au
INNISFAIL IInnisfail Budget Backpackers Workerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hostel 125 Edith St. 07 4061 78337 4061 7833 Walkabout Motel & Backpackers 07 4061 2311
ATHERTON Kuranda Rainforest Park 88 Kuranda Heaights Rd, Kuranda. 07 4093 7316, kurandarainforestpark.com.au
GULF SAVANNAH Emu Creek Cattle Station 07 4094 8313
DAINTREE
PORT DOUGLAS Parrotfish Backpackers Resort 37 Warner St, Kuranda.
Koala Beach Resort Cape Kimberly Rd.
07 4099 5011, parrotfishlodge.com
1800 466 444
FREE UNLIMITED INTERNET
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FEATURES
FREECALL: 1800 000 541
Air-conditioning 24 hour reception Kitchen & laundry Keycard access Secure parking Free BBQ
HEAPS OF ACTIVITIES! THE GREAT BARRIER REEF Boasting as the world’s largest coral reef system, the Great Barrier Reef stretches over 2600 km of the east coast of Queensland. The reef is World Heritage listed and much like the Great Wall of China, it can be seen from outer space. The reef stretches from Fraser Island in the South to the Torres Strait in the North. It is home to a huge array of flora and fauna, with many sightings of whales, dolphins, sea snakes, turtles, fish and even dugongs being recorded in the area. Sacred to the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, the reef has come under threat by coral bleaching, overfishing, shipwrecks and the ‘crown of thorns’ starfish that can devastate coral in the area. Tourism in the area consists of snorkelling, cruises with glass-bottomed boats and many underwater observatories. The area is Australia’s most popular tourist destination and is a must-see for any tourist heading up into the area.
Day trip to Crystal Cascades, Wakeboarding, Sailing, Movie nights and much more!
117 Grafton Street Cairns, QLD Australia 4870 northern@friendlygroup.com.au www.northerngreenhouse.com.au www.greenhousebackpacker.com.au
FREE DAILY BREAKFAST
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GREAT BARR IER REEF MAR INE PARK
heart of the reef Airlie Beach QUEENSLAND T HE WHI TSUNDAY IS L ANDS
are one of the world s most spectacular aquatic playgrounds & encompass 74 tropical islands rising from pristine turquoise waters, hosting lots of incredible marine and wild life.
W H I T E H AVE N B E AC H C AMIR A S AILING ADVEN T URE
Swimming, snorkelling, beautiful beaches and bays, a stuff-yourself-stupid BBQ lunch with unlimited drinks plus exhilarating sailing aboard Camira one of the world s fastest sailing catamarans â&#x20AC;&#x2019; an awesome day out on the water! $145*pp SAVE $30
GRE AT BARRI E R R E E F ADVE N T UR E S
The Great Barrier Reef is truly one of the great wonders of the natural world. Cruise aboard Seaflight to Queensland s most innovative reef pontoon, featuring an underwater viewing chamber and explore the underwater wonderland with diving, snorkelling, semi-sub or glass bottom boat rides. Includes morning / afternoon tea and an all you can eat buffet lunch. $145*pp SAVE $65
2 DAYS 1 NIGHT B AR E F O OT L A Z Y DA Z E
Start your holiday with a choice of either a Whitehaven Beach Camira Sailing Adventure, or a Great Barrier Reef Adventures. Overnight at Long Island. When you dream of an Island experience this is what you dream of! Spend the day enjoying the facilities at Long Island Resort or find your own secluded bay and take in the great outdoors. Great snorkelling. Ferry/ bus departures back to Airlie available at a variety of times. You may just be tempted to stay another night! From $215*pp (Dorm accommodation)
plus heaps of other great packages 3-6 days All day cruises and packages depart daily from Airlie Beach. For info and bookings see your travel centre or contact us: FREECALL1800 awesome
prices only available on presentation of a valid Student, Peterpans, YHA, ISIC, VIP * Backpacker or NOMADS card. Valid for travel until 31 March 2013. Conditions apply, see our website for details.
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LADY ELLIOT ISLAND If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for fantastic diving away from the crowds then this could be the place for you. Forming the southern-most coral cay of the Great Barrier Reef, Lady Elliot, about 80km northeast of Bundaberg, is one of only a handful of islands where you can actually stay on the reef and literally dive from the beach. Teeming with life, the surrounding waters boast a resident population of 40 manta rays and are also one of the best places in the world to view green and loggerhead turtles. If visiting between November and March you may even catch a glimpse of the majestic creatures lumbering up the beach to lay their eggs.
VICLISTINGS MELBOURNE STAY All Nations Backpackers Hotel & Bar 2 Spencer St. 1800 222 238, allnations.com.au
FREE UNLIMITED INTERNET
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Base Melbourne 17 Carlisle St, St. Kilda. 1800 242 273, stayatbase.com Central Melbourne Accommodation 21 Bromham Place, Richmond. 03 9427 9826, centralaccommodation.net Exford Hotel 199 Russell St. 03 9663 2697, exfordhotel.com.au
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Flinders Station Hotel 35 Elizabeth St. 03 9620 5100, flindersbackpackers.com.au
go to: goldenbackpacks.tntdownunder.com
The Greenhouse Backpacker Level 6, 228 Flinders Lane. 1800 249 207, greenhousebackpacker.com.au Habitat HQ 333 St Kilda Road, St Kilda. 1800 202 500, habitathq.com.au Home at the Mansion 66 Victoria Parade. 03 9663 4212, homemansion.com.au Home Travellers Motel 32 Carlisle St, St Kilda. 1800 008 718, hometravellersmotel.com.au Hotel Bakpak Melbourne 167 Franklin St. 1800 645 200, hotelbakpak.com
Melbourne Central YHA 562 Flinders St. 03 9621 2523, yha.com.au Nomads Melbourne 198 A’beckett St. 1800 447 762, nomadshostels.com Space Hotel 380 Russell St. 1800 670 611, spacehotel.com.au The Spencer 475 Spencer St. 1800 638 108, hotelspencer.com
MELBOURNE DO Australian Centre for the Moving Image Federation Square. 03 8663 2200, acmi.net.au Melbourne Aquarium Cnr of Flinders St & King St. 03 9923 5999, melbourneaquarium.com.au Melbourne Cricket Ground Brunton Av. 03 9657 8888 mcg.org.au Melbourne Museum 11 Nicholson St, Carlton. 13 11 02 melbourne.museum.vic.gov.au National Gallery of Victoria Federation Square. ngv.vic.gov.au Old Melbourne Gaol 377 Russell St. 03 8663 7228,
GET HIGH
FEATURES
FREECALL: 1800 249 207
Central location 24 hour reception Kitchen & laundry Keycard access Luggage Storage Lockers
HEAPS OF ACTIVITIES!
Level 6, 228 Flinders Lne Melbourne, VIC 3000 greenhouse@friendlygroup.com.au www.greenhousebackpacker.com.au www.northerngreenhouse.com.au
FREE DAILY BREAKFAST
Walking tour, Pub crawl, Bingo night, Pasta night, Sunday pancakes and much more!
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EUREKA TOWER Melbourne’s Eureka Tower is the tallest building in all of Melbourne and the ninth tallest residential building in the world. Almost 300 meters high, it towers (ha!) over the Melbourne skyline and as such, offers fantastic cityscape views. The unique Eureka Skydeck occupies the entire 88th floor of the mammoth structure and is the highest publicly accessible floor. With 30 viewfinders and several free binoculars, you can see a complete 360 degree view of the city. There is also a viewing platform called ‘The Edge’ where you can look over the rail or if you’re brave enough, just look down through the glass floor. Here’s an interesting fact: there are a total of 556 apartments in the Eureka Tower but on floors 82 – 87, only one apartment occupies each floor. These apartments went for $7 million each… unfurnished!
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oldmelbournegaol.com.au
03 5237 7899, yha.com.au
Official Neighbours Tours 570 Flinders St. 03 9629 5866, neighbourstour.com.au
Great Ocean Road Backpackers YHA 10 Erskine Av, Lorne. 03 5289 2508, yha.com.au
Skydive the Beach Melbourne 1300 798 843 skydivethebeachmelbourne.com
MELB MUSIC Cherry Bar myspace.com/cherrybarmelbourne Corner Hotel cornerhotel.com
Port Campbell Hostel 18 Tregea St, Port Campbell. 03 5598 6305, portcampbellhostel.com.au Surfside Backpackers Cnr Great Ocean Rd & Gambier St, Apollo Bay. 1800 357 263, surfsidebackpacker.com
East Brunswick Club eastbrunswickclub.com Esplanade Hotel espy.com.au Northcote Social Club northcotesocialclub.com Palace Theatre palace.com.au The Hi-Fi thehifi.com.au The Tote thetotehotel.com
GREAT OCEAN RD Anglesea Backpackers 40 Noble St, Anglesea. 03 5263 2664, angleseabackpackers.com.au Eco Beach YHA 5 Pascoe St.
MORNINGTON Bayplay Lodge 46 Canterbury Jetty Rd, Blairgowrie. 03 5988 0188, bayplay.com.au Sorrento Foreshore Reserve Nepean Hwy. 1800 850 600, mornpen.vic.gov.au Sorrento YHA 3 Miranda St, Sorrento. 03 5984 4323, yha.com.au Tortoise Head Lodge French Island. 03 5980 1234, tortoisehead.net
DANDENONG Emerald Backpackers 03 5968 4086
DON’T MISS
MURRAY RIVER Echuca Gardens YHA 103 Av, Mitchell St, Echuca. 03 5480 6522, yha.com.au Mildura City Backpackers 50 Lemon Ave, Mildura. 03 5022 7922, milduracitybackpackers.com.au Oasis Backpackers 230 Deakin Av, Mildura. 04 0734 4251, milduraoasisbackpackers.com.au
TIM & ERIC
GIPPSLAND
Forum. 29 Sept. From $69.90 It’s an all singing, all dancing, extravaganza as this comedic duo bring their favourite characters to life.
Prom Country Backpackers 03 5682 2614 Cambrai Hostel Maffra 117 Johnson St, Maffra. 1800 101 113 maffra.net.au/hostel
PHILLIP ISLAND Amaroo Park YHA 97 Church St, Cowes. 03 5952 3620, yha.com.au
Flinders Street
forummelbourne.com.au
The Island Accommodation 10-12 Phillip Island Tourist Road. 03 5956 6123 theislandaccommodation.com.au
GRAMPIANS Grampians YHA Eco Hostel
Cnr Grampians & Buckler Rds, Halls Gap. 03 5356 4543, yha.com.au Tim’s Place 44 Grampians Road, Halls Gap. 03 5356 4288, timsplace.com.au
Stay. Play. Melbourne.
$22
Accommodation from $22 a night (subject to availability)
Maximum 4 bed dormitories with linen and towel FREE all you can eat breakfast (cereal, toast and juice), weekly meal, rice and pasta, tea and coffee FREE in room oversized locker with personal power point 5 minute walk to city Large bar with big screen (all major sporting events shown) Drink specials at the bar Public transport on doorstep
UC103
Unique value tour packages
Book Now 1800
631 288 urbancentral.com.au
334 CITY ROAD SOUTHBANK MELBOURNE VIC 3006 AUSTRALIA
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TASLISTINGS HOBART STAY Central City Backpackers 138 Collins St. 1800 811 507, centralbackpackers.com.au
LAUNCESTON DO
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Cataract Gorge launcestoncataractgorge.com.au Centre for Beer Lovers Boag’s Brewery, 39 William St. 03 6332 6300, boags.com.au
Hobart Hostel 41 Barrack St. 1300 252 192, hobarthostel.com Montgomery’s YHA 9 Argyle St. 03 6231 2660, yha.com.au
Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery 2 Invermay Rd & 2 Wellington St. 03 6323 3777, qvmag.tas.gov.au
Narrara Backpackers 88 Goulburn St. 03 6234 8801, narrarabackpackers.com
Tasmania Zoo 1166 Ecclestone Rd. 03 6396 6100, tasmaniazoo.com.au
Pickled Frog 281 Liverpool St. 03 6234 7977, thepickledfrog.com
DEVONPORT
Transit Backpackers 251 Liverpool St. 03 6231 2400, transitbackpackers.com
DAPPLED CITIES Replublic Bar. 10 Oct. $22.90 It’s the Sydney band’s first headline tour in two years and they’re hitting Tassie with their new album, aptly titled – Lake Air.
HOBART DO Cascade Brewery 140 Cascade Rd. 03 6224 1117 cascadebreweryco.com.au Mt Wellington Descent Bike tours. 03 6274 1880 mtwellingtondescent.com.au
Hobart
Port Arthur Historic Ghost Tours 1800 659 101, portarthur.org.au
Salamanca Markets Every Saturday, Salamanca Place. salamanca.com.au Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery 5 Argyle St. tmag.com.au
moshtix.com.au
PORT ARTHUR
LAUNCESTON Arthouse Backpacker Hostel 20 Lindsay St. 1800 041 135, arthousehostel.com.au
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Launceston Backpackers 103 Canning St. 03 6334 2327, launcestonbackpackers.com.au Lloyds Hotel 23 George St. 03 6331 9906, backpackersaccommodation.com.au
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
Tasman Backpackers 114 Tasman St. 03 6423 2335, tasmanbackpackers.com.au
Mt Roland Budget Backpacker Rooms 1447 Claude Rd, Gowrie Park. 03 6491 1385
CRADLE DO Devils at Cradle Tassie devil sanctuary. 3950 Cradle Mountain Rd. 03 6492 1491. devilsatcradle.com Overland Track Six-day walk parks.tas.gov.au
FREYCINET Iluka Backpackers YHA Reserve Rd. 03 6257 0115, yha.com.au Freycinet National Park Brewery, Wineglass Bay camping. 03 6256 7000, wineglassbay.com
BICHENO Bicheno Backpackers 11 Morrison St. 03 6375 1651, bichenobackpackers.com Bicheno Penguin Tours 03 6375 1333, bichenopenguintours.com.au
CRADLE MTN Discovery Holiday Parks Cradle Mountain Rd. 1800 068 574, discoveryholidayparks.com.au
STRAHAN, Strahan YHA 43 Harvey St. 03 6471 7255, yha.com
STRAHAN DO Four Wheelers Henty Sand Dunes quadbike tours. 04 1950 8175, 4wheelers.com.au Water by Nature Extreme multiday whitewater rafting. 1800 111 142, franklinrivertasmania.com
WORD FROM THE STREET
Photo: Tourism Tasmania
Caroline Necke, Germany
56
PORT ARTHUR Located on the Tasman Peninsula, in Tassie’s south-east corner, Port Arthur was known as “Hell on Earth” to those convicts unfortunate enough to stay there between the 1830s and 1870s. It is, however, a strangely pretty and peaceful place nowadays, and it is very easy to lose a day exploring this partly-ruined relic of Australia’s violent colonial birth. It’s also well worth staying in the area so that you can hang around for an after-dark ghost tour. Unfortunately the popular tourist site also gained notoriety for another dark reason, in 1996, when it became the scene of Australia’s worst modern-day killing spree. when Martin Bryant went on a shooting rampage, result in the death of 35 people.
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WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN IN OZ? I think I have been everywhere! I started in Melbourne, I travelled all the way up the west coast, the east coast and now I am in Kangaroo Island. Next stop is Fiji! WHICH PLACE HAD THE BEST NIGHTLIFE? Perth. I had a lot of friends there and spent a lot of time in the bars over there. HAVE YOU BEEN WORKING? Yes, First on a sheep farm in WA, and I also worked picking rockmelons. Then a printing company in Sydney. My favourite job was working with the dolphins in Monkey Mia. It was two weeks of volunteer work, but the best job of my life.
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DARWIN STAY Banyan View Lodge Darwin 119 Mitchell St. 08 8981 8644, banyanviewlodge.com.au
KATHERINE STAY
DON’T MISS
BIG4 Katherine Holiday Park 20 Shadforth Road. 1800 501 984, big4.com.au
Elkes Backpackers 112 Mitchell St. 1800 808 365, elkesbackpackers.com.au
KATHERINE DO
Gecko Lodge 146 Mitchell St. 1800 811 250, geckolodge.com.au
Youth Shack 69 Mitchell St. 1300 793 302, youthshack.com.au
DARWIN DO Crocosaurus Cove Crocodile park and cage of death. 58 Mitchell St. 08 8981 7522, crocosauruscove.com Deckchair Cinema Jervois Rd, Darwin Waterfront. 08 8981 0700, deckchaircinema.com.au
ALICE DO Alice Springs Desert Park Larapinta Drive. 08 8951 8788, alicespringsdesertpark.com.au
Airborne Solutions Scenic helicopter flights. 08 8972 2345 airbornesolutions.com.au
Frogshollow Backpackers 27 Lindsay St. 1800 068 686, frogs-hollow.com.au
Melaleuca on Mitchell 52 Mitchell St. 1300 723 437, momdarwin.com
Toddy’s Resort 41 Gap Rd. 1800 027 027, toddys.com.au
Palm Court Kookaburra Backpackers Giles St. 1800 626 722
Darwin YHA 97 Mitchell St. 08 8981 5385, yha.com.au
Alice Springs Reptile Centre Meet and hold lizards. 9 Stuart Terrace. 08 8952 8900, reptilecentre.com.au
Nitmiluk Tours Gorge cruises and kayak hire. 1300 146 743 nitmiluktours.com.au
BARRA BASH Katherine. 5-7 Oct. $30 This annual fishing competition held on the Roper River near Darwin has over $4K in cash to be won for the largest barramundi.
Mataranka, NT
tinaroobarrabash.com.au
Fannie Bay Gaol Heritage prison. East Point Road, Fannie Bay. 08 8941 2260, nt.gov.au Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory 19 Conacher St, Bullocky Point. 08 8999 8264, magnt.nt.gov.au
Oz Jet Boating Stokes Hill Wharf. 1300 135 595, ozjetboating.com.au Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise Adelaide River. 08 8978 9077, jumpingcrocodile.com.au Wave Lagoon Waterfront Precinct. waterfront.nt.gov.au
TENNANT CREEK Tourist Rest Leichardt St. 08 8962 2719, touristrest.com.au
Outback Ballooning Hot air balloon rides. 1800 809 790, outbackballooning.com.au Royal Flying Doctor Service Base Museum and operations room. Stuart Terrace. 08 8952 1129, flyingdoctor.net
ALICE SPRINGS Alice Lodge 4 Mueller St. 08 8953 1975, alicelodge.com.au Alice Springs YHA Cnr Parsons St & Leichhardt Tce. 08 8952 8855, yha.com.au Annie’s Place 4 Traeger Ave. 1800 359 089, anniesplace.com.au
Haven Resort 3 Larapinta Drive. 1800 794 663, alicehaven.com.au
School of the Air Long-distance schooling museum. 80 Head St. 08 8951 6834, assoa.nt.edu.au The Rock Tour Uluru tours. 78 Todd St. 1800 246 345, therocktour.com.au
WORD FROM THE STREET
Suhaib Kamal Syed, Pakistan BEST THING YOU’VE DONE IN OZ? I have gone surfing and scuba diving with my friends at Bondi Beach during my summer vacations from university. CRAZIEST EXPERIENCE? Getting drunk and sleeping in the park on my 21st birthday. MET ANY WILDLIFE? At Taronga Zoo I had the opportunity to touch a koala and a kangaroo as well. FAVOURITE PLACE? Melbourne because of its cultural and artistic diversity and the lifestyle there is good and dynamic.
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PERTH STAY
FESTIVAL ALERT
Billabong Backpackers Resort 381 Beaufort St. 08 9328 7720, billabongresort.com.au Britannia on William 253 William St, Northbridge. 08 9227 6000, perthbrittania.com Emperor’s Crown 85 Stirling St, Northbridge. 1800 991 553, emperorscrown.com.au Globe Backpackers & City Oasis Resort 561 Wellington St. 08 9321 4080, globebackpackers.com.au Ocean Beach Backpackers 1 Eric St, Cottlesloe. 08 9384 5111, oceanbeachbackpackers.com.au One World Backpackers 162 Aberdeen St, Northbridge. 1800 188 100, oneworldbackpackers.com.au
NATURAL NEW ZEALAND MUSIC FESTIVAL Red Hill Auditorium. 1 Dec. From $108 We know it’s the furtherst point you can get from New Zealand, but Perth, for the second year, will play host to an awesome line-up of musical acts, with NZ music heavyweights, Shapeshifter and Kora, headlining the show.
Red Hill, Perth
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Perth City YHA 300 Wellington St. 08 9287 3333, yha.com.au The Old Swan Barracks 6 Francis St. 08 9428 0000, theoldswanbarracks.com
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Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, Northbridge. 08 9228 3755, undergroundbackpackers.com.au The Witch’s Hat 148 Palmerston St. 08 9228 4228, witchshat.com
PERTH DO Aquarium of Western Australia 91 Southside Drive, Hillarys. 08 9447 7500, aqwa.com.au Kings Park & Botanic Garden bgpa.wa.gov.au Perth Mint 310 Hay St. 08 9421 7223, perthmint.com.au Perth Zoo 20 Labouchere Road, South Perth. 08 9474 3551, perthzoo.wa.gov.au
PERTH MUSIC Amplifier amplifiercapitol.com.au Astor liveattheastor.com.au Mojo’s Bar mojosbar.com.au The Bakery nowbaking.com.au
WALISTINGS The Rosemount Hotel rosemounthotel.com.au
FREO STAY Backpackers Inn Freo 11 Pakenham St. 08 9431 7065, backpackersinnfreo.com.au Old Firestation Backpackers 18 Phillimore St. 08 9430 5454, fremantleprison.com.au Sundancer Backpackers Resort 80 High St. 08 9336 6080, sundancerbackpackers.com.au
FREO DO Fremantle Markets 08 9335 2515, fremantlemarkets.com.au Fremantle Prison 1 The Terrace.08 9336 9200, backpackersinnfreo.com.au
ROTTNEST ISL Rottnest Island YHA Kingstown Barracks. 08 9372 9780, yha.com.au Rottnest Express 1300 Go Rotto rottnestexpress.com.au
MARGARET RIV
ALBANY Albany Bayview Backpackers YHA 49 Duke St 08 9842 3388, yha.com.au Cruize-Inn 122 Middleton Rd. 08 9842 9599, cruizeinn.com
MONKEY MIA Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort 1800 653 611, monkeymia.com.au
NINGALOO REEF Blue Reef Backpackers 3 Truscott Crescent, Exmouth 1800 621 101, aspenparks.com.au Ningaloo Club Coral Bay 08 9948 5100, ningalooclub.com Excape Backpackers YHA Murat Rd, Exmouth. 08 9949 1200, yha.com.au
BROOME STAY
Margaret River Lodge YHA 220 Railway Tce. 08 9757 9532, yha.com.au
Cable Beach Backpackers 12 Sanctuary Road. 1800 655 011, cablebeachbackpackers.com
Surfpoint 12 Riedle Drive Prevally 08 9757 1777 surfpoint.com.au
Kimberley Club 62 Fredrick St 08 9192 3233, kimberleyklub.com
Photo: Tourism Tasmania
IN THE SPOTLIGHT
ESPERANCE
7 ,Ê -/Ê "-/ Ê Ê7 ÊÓääÇ -/ÊÓäänÊEÊÓää
This coastal town in southern Western Australia is known for the Cyclops wave, which is said to be the world’s heaviest wave. If surfing dangerous drops isn’t your style then Esperance has plenty of other activities to keep you entertained. The beaches in the area are some of the whitest in Australia and there is a pile of watersports that go along with that but the best way to see Esperance is to hire a bike. Grab a two-wheeler and cycle the way from Castletown to Salmon Beach.
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ADELAIDE STAY
DON’T MISS
Adelaide Backpackers Inn 112 Carrington St. 1800 24 77 25, adpi.com.au
Riba’s Underground 1811 William Creek Rd. 08 8672 5614, camp-underground.com.au
Adelaide Central YHA 135 Waymouth St. 08 8414 3010, yha.com.au
KANGAROO IS
Adelaide Travellers Inn 220 Hutt St. 08 8224 0753, adelaidebackpackers.com.au Annie’s Place 239 Franklin St. 1800 818 011, anniesplace.com.au Backpack Oz 144 Wakefield St. 1800 633 307, backpackoz.com.au Blue Galah Backpackers Lvl 1, 52-62, King William St. 08) 8231 9295, bluegalah.com.au
THE RUBENS
Glenelg Beach Hostel 5-7 Moseley St. Glenelg. 1800 359 181, glenelgbeachhostel.com.au
The Gov, 29 Sept. $24.30 Catch them before you can’t afford them! This band from rural NSW have one of the most ambitious and exciting debut records around.
Hostel 109 109 Carrington St. 1800 099 318, hostel109.com My Place 257 Waymouth St. 1800 221 529, adelaidehostel.com.au Shakespeare Hostel 123 Waymouth St. 1800 556 889, shakeys.com.au
ADELAIDE DO Adelaide Oval Home to the Donald Bradman collection. War Memorial Drive. 08 8300 3800 cricketsa.com.au
1 Oliver St. 1800 633 891, radekadownunder.com.au
Adelaide
moshtix.com.au
Adelaide Zoo Frome Rd. 08 8267 3255, zoossa.com.au Haigh’s Chocolates Factory tours. 153 Greenhill Rd, Parkside 1800 819 757, haighschocolates.com.au Temptation Sailing Dolphin swimming, Glenelg. 04 1281 1838 dolphinboat.com.au
BAROSSA VAL Barossa Backpackers 9 Basedow Road Tanunda. 08 8563 0198, barossabackpackers.com.au
COOBER PEDY Opal Cave Coober Pedy Hutchinson St. 08 8672 5028, opalcavecooberpedy.com.au Radeka Down Under
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Port Elliot Beach House YHA 13 The Strand, Port Elliot. 08 8554 2785 yha.com.au
EYRE PENINSULA Coodlie Park Farmstay Flinders Highway, Port Kenny. 08 8687 0411 coodliepark.com
Kangaroo Island YHA 33 Middle Terrace, Penneshaw. 08 8553 1344 yha.com.au
Baird Bay Ocean Eco Experience Sea lion and dolphin swims. 08 8626 5017 bairdbay.com
Vivonne Bay Lodge 66 Knofel Drive, Vivonne Bay 13 13 01 seaink.com.au
Calypso Star Charters Great white shark cage diving. 08 8682 3939, sharkcagediving.com.au
RIVERLAND Berri Backpackers Sturt Highway, Berri. 08 8582 3144, berribackpackers.com.au Harvest Trail Lodge Loxton. 08 8584 5646, harvesttrail.com.au Nomads on Murray Sturt Highway, Kingston on Murray. 1800 665 166, nomadsworld.com Riverland Backpackers Labour Hire Services 08 8583 0211
FLEURIEU PENIN
Nullarbor Traveller Tours across to Perth. 1800 816 858 the-traveller.com.au Port Lincoln Tourist Park 11 Hindmarsh St. 08 8621 4444, portlincolntouristpark.com.au Rodney Fox Shark Expeditions Great white shark cage diving. 08 8363 1788 rodneyfox.com.au
FLINDERS RANGES Angorichina Tourist Village 08 8648 4842, angorichinavillage.com.au Wilpena Pound Resort Wilpena Rd. 08 8648 0004, wilpenapound.com.au
GO WILD
PORT LINCOLN Named by British explorer Matthew Flinders after his home town, Port Lincoln almost pipped Adelaide to the title of South Australian capital, only losing out to due to a lack of fresh water. It’s now an attractive and bustling harbour town worth a stop. However, to many, the area is known for one reason only – cage diving with great white sharks. Dangerous Reef, 30km from shore, is the best place in Oz to come face-to-face with the toothy giants. So much so that the area was used when filming the genuine shark scenes in the original Jaws. Found about 280km directly west from Adelaide (but about 650km when travelling by road), it’s also the place to try the surreally fun swimming with tuna. Indeed, it’s thanks to the area’s high grade tuna, most of which ships straight out to Japan’s sashimi markets, that the town boasts the most millionaires per capita in Australia..
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BUS TOURS Kiwi Experience +64 9366 9830 kiwiexperience.com Magic Travellers Network +64 9358 5600, magicbus.co.nz Nakedbus.com 0900 62533, nakedbus.com NZ Travelpass 0800 339 966, travelpass.co.nz Stray +64 9309 8772, straytravel.com
RENTAL FIRMS Ace Rental Cars 1800 140 026, acerentalcars.com.nz Backpacker Campervan & Car Rentals +800 200 80 801, backpackercampervans.com Bargain Rental Cars 0800 001 122, bargainrentals.com.nz
Rent-A-Dent 0800 736 823, rentadent.co.nz Rental Car Village +64 9376 9935, hire-vehicles.co.nz Spaceships 1300 139 091, spaceships.tv Standby Cars 1300 789 059, standbycars.com.au Wicked Campers 1800 246 869, wickedcampers.com
AUCKLAND Airport Skyway Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 30 Kirkbride Road, Mangere. +64 9275 4443, skywaylodge.co.nz Auckland International Backpackers (BBH) 2 Churton St, Parnell. +64358 4584,
Darn Cheap Rentals 0800 447 363, exploremore.co.nz
Base Auckland 229 Queen St. 0800 227 369, stayatbase.com
Econo Campers +64 9275 9919, econocampers.co.nz
Bamber House (BBH) 22 View Rd, Mt Eden. +64 9623 4267, hostelbackpacker.com
Escape Rentals 1800 456 272, escaperentals.co.nz Explore More 1800 800 327, dcrentals.com.nz Jucy Rentals 0800 399 736, jucy.com.nz
The Fat Camel (Nomads) 38 Fort St. +64 9307 0181, nomadshostels.com
Nomads Capital 118 Wakefield St. 0508 666 237, nomadscapital.com
Base Discovery Lodge St. +64 Queenstown 49 Shotover St. +64 3441 1185, stayatbase.com
Nomads Auckland 16-20 Fort St. +64 9300 9999, nomadshostels.com
Rosemere Backpackers (BBH) 6 McDonald Cres. +64 4384 3041, backpackerswellington.co.nz
Bungi Backpackers (VIP, BBH) 15 Sydney St. 0800 728 286, bungibackpackers.co.nz
Oaklands Lodge (BBH) St. +64 5A Oaklands Rd, Mt Eden. +64 9638 6545, oaklands.co.nz
Rowena’s Backpackers (VIP) 115 Brougham St. 0800 80 1414
Cardrona Alpine Resort Between Queenstown and Wanaka. +64 3443 7341, cardrona.com
Queen Street Backpackers (VIP) 4 Fort St. +64 9373 3471, enquiries@qsb.co.nz Surf ‘n’ Snow Backpackers 102 Albert St. +64 9363 8889, surfandsnow.co.nz YHA Auckland City Cnr City Rd & Liverpool St. +64 9309 2802, yha.co.nz YHA Auckland International 5 Turner St. +64 9302 8200, yha.co.nz
WELLINGTON Base Wellington 21-23 Cambridge Tce. +64 4801 5666 stayatbase.com
Central City Backpackers 26 Lorne St. +64 9358 5685, backpacker.net.nz
Downtown Wellington Backpackers (BBH) 1 Bunny St. +64 4473 8482 db@downtownbackpackers.co.nz
City Garden Lodge 25 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell. +64 9302 0880
Lodge in the City (VIP) 152 Taranaki St. +64 4385 8560 lodgeinthecity.co.nz
YHA Wellington City 292 Wakefield St. +64 4801 7280
CHRISTCHURCH
Flaming Kiwi Backpackers (BBH) 39 Robins Rd. +64 3442 5494, flamingkiwi@xtra.co.nz
Chester Street Backpackers (BBH) 148 Chester St East. +64 3377 1897, chesterst.co.nz
Hippo Lodge (BBH) 4 Anderson Hts. +64 3442 5785, hippolodge.co.nz
Foley Towers (BBH) 208 Kilmore St. +64 3366 9720, backpack.co.nz/foley
Nomads Queenstown 5-11 Church St. +64 3441 3922, nomadshostels.com
Jailhouse Accommodation (BBH) 338 Lincoln Rd. 0800 524 546, stay@kiwibasecamp.com
Peterpans Adventure Travel 27 Shotover St Queenstown. peterpans.com.au
The Old Countryhouse (BBH) 437 Gloucester St. +64 3381 5504, oldcountryhousenz.com
Pinewood Lodge (VIP) 48 Hamilton Rd. 0800 7463 9663, rgrieg@xtra.co.nz
Tranquil Lodge (BBH) 440 Manchester St. +64 3366 6500, tranquil-lodge.co.nz
Southern Laughter (BBH, VIP) 4 Isle St. 0800 728 448, southernlaughter.co.nz
Rucksacker Backpacker Hostel (BBH) 70 Bealey Ave. +64 3377 7931, rucksacker.com
QUEENSTOWN
YHA Queenstown Central 48A Shotover Street. +64 3442 7400, yha.co.nz YHA Queenstown Lakefront 8890 Lake Esplanade. +64 3442 8413, yha.co.nz
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OZWORK
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Visa to your ability Whether your job is in fruit or physio, there are some facts about Working Holiday Visas you should know, writes Leanne Stevens...
Finally you’ve made it to Oz on a visa which lets you work while you holiday. You’ve probably already planned your trip, and most likely pubs, beaches and backpacker hostels are high on your agenda. Right now, the surf’s up, the beer’s cold and holiday life is good. When the sun rises and the hangover starts to fade, what if you like Australia so much that you want to extend your stay? What are your visa options? The Working Holiday Visa – Subclass 417 - is a gift really. Pretty much 12 months of unlimited travel and work, no restrictions on salary, all you have to do is abide by your visa conditions; and not do anything illegal, and you have the makings of a brilliant holiday. And many will have options to remain for longer. That could be by qualifying for a second working holiday visa, or maybe you’ll pick up a great job where an employer can offer sponsorship. If you get married to an Aussie while you are here – then a partner visa could also be an option – as long as the marriage is genuine. Whatever you do, the key is to start planning early, so that you don’t miss key deadlines and opportunities. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your holiday: 62
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Plan your trip 12 months early It sounds a long time but it will go very quickly. You’ve probably already mapped out the places you want to visit in Oz. And it’s a massive country with lots to see and do. A year isn’t long enough! Many think the Working Holiday Visa can be extended for another year. It can’t. But you might be eligible to apply for a second Working Holiday visa. One condition is that, on your first visa, you undertake at least 3 months of work in a specified area of Australia. Not just any work or place either –DIAC publishes the types of work and acceptable postcodes. And, of course, when applying for your second visa you must still meet the age and other requirements. If you’re thinking about a second working holiday visa, plan to look for some suitable work early in the piece. Don’t leave it till your last 3 or 4 months - if something goes wrong, you might miss the opportunity.
Don’t breach visa conditions. Ever Your visa probably has some conditions.
Continued on page 65
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We are looking for volunteers who are 18-60 years of age to take part in a study to investigate a new antibiotic for those infections that are currently resistant. This study will look at different doses of the medication and compare to placebo. The study will last for approximately 8-10 weeks. You will have a free medical screening to assess your suitability. You need to be a non smoker and generally of good health. Those successfully enrolled in the study receive $3290 for completion.
For more info call 1800 475 475
volunteers.4.trials@gsk.com The study is being run at the GSK Medicines Research Unit located at the Prince of Wales Hospital in Randwick. This study is recruiting in Sydney Only
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These might include no study for more than 4 months, and no more than 6 months with one employer. It’s vital that you are aware of these conditions. If you do breach a visa condition, it could be difficult for you to get another visa.
Employer Sponsored Visas A popular way for skilled backpackers to stay longer is by finding an employer who will sponsor them for a work visa. The Subclass 457, or Temporary Long Stay Business Visa, is valid for up to 4 years. And there’s a streamlined pathway to permanent residency for those who work with the same employer for at least two years on a 457. You’ll only be eligible if your nominated occupation is “in demand” in Australia, and if you have qualifications and skills to do that job. Unskilled labour, such as bar work and fruit picking, will not qualify. When you’re on a 457 visa, you must stay working for that employer. Great if you want a longer stay in one part of Australia, and the chance to become a permanent resident after 2 years, but not so good if you still have itchy feet and want to travel.
Get some professional advice early Whatever your plans, it’s worth talking to a Registered Migration Agent about your options. Australian migration law is constantly changing and can be confusing. Even if you research well before you arrive, chances are there could still be changes to the rules while you are here. And the advice you get at 3 am in the pub from your room mate just might not work for you! An early consultation with a Registered Migration Agent could be the best investment in your future that you ever make.
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Visit our website for more details www.cleopatrasgentlemansclub.com.au email: cleopatrasgentlemansclub.@hotmail.com or phone 02 9609 6668. Only drug-free to apply.
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TOTALLYTRIVIAL
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WHO TO BLAME
AND THEIR FAVOURITE THING ABOUT WA EDITOR
ALEX HARMON [Ningaloo Reef]
STAFF WRITER HUGH RADOJEV (The Subi, Perth)
INTERN
CAITLIN STANWAY (Margaret River wine)
AUSSIE NEW ZEALAND RULES FOOTBALL The population of New Zealand is Q 1.roughly how many people? a) 2 million c) 6 million
DESIGN & PRODUCTION
LISA FERRON (Picnics in Fremantle)
ACCOUNT MANAGER
JUSTIN STEINLAUF (Margaret River surf)
c) Dunedin
Q
a) UK b) China c) Australia d) USA
d) Christchurch
3. Which constellation features on New Zealand’s flag? a) Southern Cross b) Big Dipper c) Orion’s Belt d) Centaurus
Q 4. In which city would you find the Sky Tower? a) Rotorua c) Wellington
SALES EXECUTIVE MIKE RAMMSTEIN (Tree top walking)
b) 4 million d) 12 million
is the name of the capital city? Q 2.a)What Auckland b) Wellington
BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
TOM WHEELER (Drinking vineyards)
Which is the only country in the Q 6.world with more sheep than NZ?
b) Napier d) Auckland
b)Stewart Island c) Erin’s Island d) South Island is the national sport of NZ? Q 8.a)What Cricket b) Lawn Bowls c) Rugby Union d) Sheep Shearing
Q 9. What is the national anthem called?
Q 5. What is the name of the body of
water that seperates the two Islands? a) Bass Strait b) Cook Strait c) Tasman Sea d) Fouveaux Strait
FINANCIAL CONTROLLER
is the largest Island? Q 7.a)Which North Island
a) New Zealand the Brave b) God Defend New Zealand c) Advance New Zealand Fair d) Long Live New Zealand
TRISH BAILEY
WHAT WE DID THIS WEEK
SUDOKU PUZZLE 8 5
HEADED TO THE ISLAND PARADISE OF SAMOA FOR THE TEUILA FESTIVAL AND A WEEK OF COCKTAILS ON THE BEACH
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AUSSIE-ISM
2
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FLEW OVER THE DITCH TO NEW ZEALAND FOR A WEEK OF SNOWBOARDING, BUNGY JUMPING, AND PUB CRAWLING THROUGH QUEENSTOWN PUT OUR WAGES ON BLACK AT STAR CITY AT 3AM. BECAUSE THAT IS ALWAYS A GOOD IDEA
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ANSWERS: 1. b 2. b 3. a 4. d 5. b 6. c 7. d 8. c 9. b
(Rottnest Island)
“A PINEAPPLE”
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If someone asks you to lend a pineapple, they don’t want to make a Piña Colada. They’re probably hungry and broke after a big night out. Chances are they just want to borrow $50 – a pineapple.
SPRING BREAK party! What happens on spring break, stays on spring break
Th 1 3u r s d a y SEP th T F R OE M B E R 7P M M
ALL DR $5INKS MIDN TILL IGHT US IL KE ON OK BO AF CE
Killer pong competition with huge prizes to be won! 3 day rental in a mighty camper! *ALL TAP BEERS, BOTTLED BEERS,SPIRITS AND PIZZA $5 ‘TIL MIDNIGHT. SCUBAR PROMOTES THE RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF ALCOHOL. +61 2 9212 4244 SCUBAR.COM.AU | CNR GEORGE ST & RAWSON PL SYDNEY
CRUISE WHITSUNDAYS Experience Queensland’s most innovative and spacious reef pontoon located at Knuckle Reef. Knuckle Reef Pontoon features Queensland’s largest and most spectacular underwater viewing chamber and is the only reef pontoon in Australia with a giant waterslide. Student and Backpacker Discounts available.
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