TNT Magazine 719 by TNT MAGAZINE

8 - 23 April 2013 Issue 719 tntdownunder.com

IN W angaroo

ak island adventure for two

light years We stopover in buzzing Tokyo

pitch perfect Our top 10 camping spots in Oz

t s e b y a d n u our s

me ise of a lifeti u r c e th r fo ays ilt Whitsund o p s n u , y n n to the su We head up + news & sport whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on

film reviews travellersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; tIPS

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1300 300 $1299 028 19/03/13 11:58 AM

Alex Harmon EDITOR editor@tntdownunder.com

EDITOR’S LETTER The Whitsundays. Probably the closest thing you’ll get to perfection in Oz (apart from a meat pie). It’s a highlight on any east coast trip so we put a writer on a train and sent her to the far north where she sailed the islands for three days. Meanwhile, back at TNT headquarters we were left to roam around with nothing but a tent and goon sack to bring you our top 10 camping spots. Sound fair? Read on.

THIS WEEK oz Diary

Food + drink

Gigs

Pub

Chatroom

Film

Lifestyle

News

Sport

Travel

hot shots

Travel tips

win

weekender

listings Australia

listings new zealand

work

trivial pursuits

Features Oh Danny Boyle

We talk to the Academy Award winning director about his new film Trance

A bit camp

Our top 10 list of the best spots around Oz to pitch your tent or throw up a swag

how whitty

We take a cruise around Queensland’s beautiful Whitsundays

Toky-Hello!

Bright lights, big city. The Japanese capital blows our mind and our retinas

56 tntdownunder.com

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ozDIARY

Editorial Editor Alex Harmon Staff writer Hugh Radojev Contributors Peta Burton, Alasdair Morton, Alexandra E. Petri, Andrew Westbrook Interns Rosemarie Marino, Richard Laycock, Adele Rogers

@tnt_downunder

You’ll laugh so hard you might die

Design and production Design and production manager Lisa Ferron Sales Account manager Justin Steinlauf Marketing and events executive Georgina Pengelly marketing & events Business development manager Tom Wheeler distribution Lee Sutherland accounts Financial controller Trish Bailey

02 8332 7511 Email tom@tntdownunder.com

Phone

main event Melbourne comedy festival Various, Melbourne

Featuring some of the finest stand-up talent from Australia and around the world, the Melbourne International Comedy Festival is one of the premier events on the Australian comedy calendar. Some of the festivals best loved comics like Stephen K. Amos, Arj Barker and the irrepressible and possibly undead David Boustein (pictured) will all be bringing new shows to the festival. To supplement the veterans will be debutant up-and-comers like English comedian, Loretta Maine whose brand of edgy stand-up has taken the UK by storm. 27th March – 21st April. Melbourne, Victoria

comedyfestival.com.au

Art Battles quay series

‘Best Jobs in the world’ deadline

The rocks windmill

Started in 2011, this innovative and exciting event has reinvented the notion of performance art. In a hip inner-Sydney bar the cream of Oz’s talented visual arts crop will battle each other with the tools of their trade in front of a live audience.

Entries for Tourism Australia’s ‘Best Jobs in the World’ campaign are closing and TA are encouraging people to get in fast. With six amazing job opportunities available right across the country, you’d be mad to miss out on this chance of a lifetime!

An interactive and informative nod back to Sydney’s historical past, the Rocks Windmill will be a true sight to behold. With live performances, film screenings, workshops and an actual four-storey windmill, this will be a once in a (Sydney) lifetime event.

March 28 – May 5 Name This Bar, Sydney artbattles.com.au

Entries close April 10 Tourism Australia tourism.australia.com

April 12 - May 12 The Rocks therocks.com

Where to get TNT

See tntdownunder.com/magazine-location.html for pick-up points

tntdownunder.com

Free

Image: MICF

TNT Magazine is printed on paper from sustainable forests. There is no business connection between the proprietors of this magazine and TNT Ltd, the worldwide transportation group. Copyright here and abroad of all original materials is held by TNT Magazine. Reproduction in whole or part is forbidden, except with permission of the publishers. Registered by Australia Post.

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eats + drinks

the Abercrombie

@tnt_downunder

[Caption]

Pub review by Hugh Radojev

Much in the vein of other formerly haggard Sydney boozers like The Norfolk and The Flinders, The Abercrombie has benefitted hugely from the caring ownership of Mr. James Wirth (who with his late partner James Miller) hosed down the locals, gave the once Goth ridden downstairs bar a good airing and stuffed it full of kitsch Americana and just like that, another inner-west American style bar and eatery was born. This one has proved a little different though. The grub The food here has always been an odd kind of mix between American Mid-West roadside diner staples (Philly Cheese Steak, Double Cheeseburgers) and weird British comfort foods. Now, though, a new lunch menu has been brought in and the bizarre British aspects have seemingly been phased out and replaced with dishes that I guess have their conceptual roots buried somewhere between Hawaii and Korea. Think Korean Fried Cornflake Chicken, Jerk Lamb with Tropical Salad (really just coleslaw with diced pineapple) and the Veggie Burrito – the pick of the bunch. Everything is $10 at lunch, which makes it go down very easy. Behind the bar Nice collection of the standard tap beers which run from $5-$8 as well as a decent house wine list that goes for around the same. Bill please $10 mains each during lunch times. No wonder the outdoor beer garden is heaving on Friday lunch times full of uni students and young professionals. verdict It’s decent bar food, albeit a tad greasy and confusing... Still, A+ for effort! THE SCENE

100 Broadway, Sydney

facebook.com/#!/abercrombiehotel

3 of the best Adelaide nightspots 6

Casablaba

Botanic Bar

Zhivago

A blend of Mediterranean Africa and exotic South-East Asia, this wonderful little cocktail and tapas bar is an absolute gem. The interior is full of warm colours and earthy trinkets from half the places on Earth and the food is just as varied and delicious. The cocktails aren’t half bad either, the $18 Peach and Aperol Sour the standout.

A proper cocktail bar, where the barmen are more chemists than mere mixers of drinks. Botanic Bar’s interior is lavishly decorated and has a kind of quaint stylishness all to itself. The drinks menu is the key here though, intricate yet delicious cocktails and fairly cheap. Fully imported beer and wine augment the spirits nicely.

A place with a reputation as one of the best nightclubs in South Australia, Zhivago is known best for it’s weekend parties. Doors here don’t open until 9pm on the weekends and stay open until late, so when everything else is winding down in the City of Churches, Zhivago is just getting started.

casablabla.com

botanicbar.com

zhivago.com.au

tntdownunder.com

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4/04/13 9:22 AM

new in town

BITE SIZE

MON–FRI 11.30AM–4PM ............... MON–THUR 7PM–11PM ............... FRI & SAT 7PM–9PM ............... SUN 12PM–11PM

Barrel of Lox Pastrami, the most sensual of all the cured meats (if George Costanza from Seinfeld is to be believed) is synonymous with New York City delis. Good stuff is hard to find in Sydney though, well it was, until now. Lox, Stock and Barrel in Bondi is bringing the NYC deli to the Harbour City in a big way. Bagels, challah (your guess is as good as mine) and rye breads (marble hopefully) are all baked fresh in house! Oh yeah, you can get a pastrami and pickle sandwich with Russian coleslaw and an espresso for $20! Now I just need to find some friends to sit and talk about nothing with. loxstockandbarrel.com.au

Touchscreen tapas Only a few months in Newtown and already Wagaya feels like a part of the furniture in the Inner West. The chain styles itself as ‘Japanese Tapas’ which under normal circumstances would be perplexing but they pull it off. The SUSHIan Roulette (think The Deer Hunter but sushi and wasabi instead of revolver and bullets) is fun and you order all your food using an iPad, which is certainly novel. wagaya.com.au

tonka trucks Tonka Bar has replaced the old Ruby Rabbit (a personal

favourite of mine) on Oxford Street. It takes up all three levels now as well, with food and cocktails bottom and top, nightclub in the middle. Très magnifique!

OPEN 7 DAYS TILL 3AM KITCHEN TILL 2.30AM ............................... DJS & LIVE ENTERTAINMENT EVERY NIGHT! ............................... LUCKYCOQ.COM.AU FACEBOOK.COM/LUCKYCOQ

CNR CHAPEL ST & HIGH ST WINDSOR MELBOURNE 9525 1288

tonkabar.com.au

tntdownunder.com

gigLISTINGS

@tnt_downunder

friday 12 Rufus $20.50 Oxford Art Factory moshtix.com.au The Griswolds $11.25 X & Y Bar, Fortitude Valley, Bris oztix.com.au The Potbelleez $28.60 HQ Complex, Adelaide oztix.com.au

DON’T MISS!

Birdy $91 Sydney Opera House ticketmaster.com.au

One Night Stand Sydney. April 13. Free Triple J are taking over the Dubbo Showgrounds and their bringing Flume, The Rubens, Ball Park Music and Seth Sentry with them!

Dubbo, New South Wales

monday 8 Work In Progress $16.50 Tuxedo Cat, Melbourne seetickets.com

tuesday 9 Chris Isaak $99 Enmore Theatre, Sydney premier.ticketek.com.au Counting Crows $101.90 Sydney Opera House sydneyoperahouse.com The Script $80.25 Brisbane Entertainment Centre frontiertouring.com

abc.net.au Daniel Champagne $20 The Basement, Sydney moshtix.com.au

thursday 11 John Glover $20 The Greenwood Hotel, Sydney greenwoodhotel.com Dead Letter Circus $28.70 Oxford Arts Factory, Sydney moshtix.com.au Glenn Shorrock $44.90 The Brass Monkey, Cronulla oztix.com.au

saturday 13 British India $28.70 The Metro Theatre, Sydney premier.ticktek.com.au Live It Up Festival $40 RNA Showgrounds, QLD ticketbooth.com.au Lets Not Pretend $15 The Brewhouse, Sydney brewhouse.eventtix.com.au Katie Noonan $40 The Basement, Sydney moshtix.com.au Marie Wilson $20 The Empress Hotel, Melbourne eventbrite.com

sunday 14

DON’T MISS! Vivid Live Various, Sydney. May 24 – June 2. From TBA A festival of music (including Empire of the Sun), arts, film and light. Be amazed as the night sky above Sydney lights up over May and June.

Sydney, NSW

vividlive.sydneyoperahouse.com

Chance Waters $15.30 The Zoo, Brisbane oztix.com.au

saturday 20

thursday 18 Evermore $30 Trak Lounge, Melbourne ticketmaster.com.au

sunday 21

friday 19

Birdy $91 Sydney Opera House ticketmaster.com.au

SIlverstein $37.70 Manning Bar, Sydney oztix.com.au

Counting Crows $109.09 Sydney Opera House sydneyoperahouse.com

Full Tote Odds $15 Workers Club, Melbourne ticketscout.com.au

Hermans Hermits From $38.95 York On Lilydale, VIC ticketmaster.com.au

Public Image Ltd $79.10 The Enmore Theatre, Sydney premier.ticketek.com

Hungry Kids Of Hungary $23.50 Newport Hotel, Freemantle oztix.com.au

Bryan Adams $99.99 Sydney Entertainment Centre frontiertouring.com

Sets On The Beach Vol 11 $63.75 Scarborough Beach, WA oztix.com.au

BOOK NOW!

Josh Groban From $99.99 Palais Theatre, Melbourne ticketmaster.com.au Coheed And Cambria $67.30 The Metro Theatre, Sydney premier.ticktek.com.au

Hoodoo Gurus $77.30 The Tivoli, Brisbane premier.ticketek.com.au

Waldo Fabian $25 The Basement, Sydney moshtix.com.au

wednesday 10

Stone Music Festival $129 Sydney Olympic Park stonemusicfest.com

Stone Music Festival $129 Sydney Olympic Park stonemusicfest.com Circa Survive $66.20 The Palace, Melbourne premier.ticketek.com.au Josh Groban From $99.99 Palais Theatre, Melbourne ticketmaster.com.au

BOOK NOW!

monday 15 Rock For Doc $89 The Enmore Theatre, Sydney premier.ticketek.com.au Climbing Towards Midnight $60 Pararde Theatres NIDA, Sydney premier.ticketek.com.au

tuesday 16

julia and the deep sea sirens Regional Australia. Jul 30 – Aug 10. From $99.90 The Canberra-based indie-folk group are heading around the country in support of their LP, Little Surprises. Check their website for details. Australia

jdss.com.au/

Silverstein + Sienna Skies $34.50 Fowlers Live, SA moshtix.com.au

wednesday 17 Epica $59 The Hi-Fi Brisbane thehifi.com.au

Parklife 2013 Various, Australia. Sep/Oct. TBA While Fuzzy have confirmed on their Facebook that Parklife will be back in Sep/Oct that’s all we know. Should be a banger, though! Australia Wide

parklife.com.au

tntdownunder.com

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ALL DRINKS ARE $5 INCLUDING TAP BEERS, SPIRITS & PIZZAS TILL MIDNIGHT +61 2 9212 4244 SCUBAR.COM.AU | CNR GEORGE ST & RAWSON PL SYDNEY SCUBAR PROMOTES THE RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF ALCOHOL.

If you’re not Dutch you aren’t MUCH!

ALL DRINKS ARE $5 INCLUDING TAP BEERS, SPIRITS & PIZZAS TILL MIDNIGHT +61 2 9212 4244 SCUBAR.COM.AU | CNR GEORGE ST & RAWSON PL SYDNEY SCUBAR PROMOTES THE RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF ALCOHOL.

Come to Scubar Downunder and get Dirty Dutch to celebrate the Dutch Queen’s Birthday

anyone hailing from Holland/decked out in Orange will recieve a complimentary drink!*

+61 2 9212 4244 SCUBAR.COM.AU | CNR GEORGE ST & RAWSON PL SYDNEY SCUBAR PROMOTES THE RESPONSIBLE SERVICE OF ALCOHOL.

01_719p3-19 A&E upfront .indd 9

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pUBLISTINGS

@tnt_downunder

HAPPY HOUR

In Situ 34/18 Sydney Rd, Manly insitumanly.com.au Four Pines 29/43-45 East Esplanade, Manly 4pines.com.au Marlborough Hotel 145 King St, Newtown marlboroughhotel.com.au The Imperial 35 Erskineville Road, Erskineville theimperialhotel.com.au

HAPPY HOUR!

The Norfolk 305 Cleveland St, Redfern thenorfolk.co

$12 steaks all monday The Glenmore, Sydney. All Monday. A big juicy, Black Angus steak with chips and salad from the opening of the pub till close for just $12. Have one overlooking the Harbour. The Glenmore,The Rocks

sydney pubs Trinity Bar 505 Crown St, Surry Hills trinitybar.com.au DOME Bar Level 1 589 Crown Street, Surry Hills domebar.com.au Tea Garden’s 2-4 Bronte Rd, Bondi Junction teagardenshotel.com.au Scary Canary 469 Kent St, Sydney scarycanarybar.com.au Side Bar 509 Pitt St, Sydney wakeup.com.au/side-bar Scubar 4/11-23 Rawson Place, Sydney scubar.com.au Bar Century Lvl 4 640, George St Sydney barcentury.com.au 3 Wise Monkeys 555 George St, Sydney 3wisemonkeys.com.au

theglenmore.com.au Candy’s Apartment 22 Bayswater Road, Potts Point candys.com.au World Bar 24 Bayswater Road, Potts Point theworldbar.com.au Ryan’s Paragon Hotel Cnr Loftus & Alfred St, Sydney hotelparagon.com.au

The Vanguard 42 King St, Newtown thevanguard.com.au Coogee Palace 169 Dolphin St, Coogee beachpalacehotel.com.au Beach Road Hotel 71 Beach Road, Bondi Beach beachroadbondi.com.au

$14 Burger and Beer Day Beer DeLuxe, Federation Square. Every Thursdays. Come in for a delicious cheesburger and one of Beer DeLuxe’s extensive collection of local and imported craft beers all in the city centre. Federation Sq, Melbourne

The Hi-Fi 125 Swanston Street Melbourne thehifi.com.au

The Bondi Hotel 178 Campbell Parade, Bondi hotelbondi.com.au

The Tote 67-71 Johnston Street, Collingwood thetotehotel.com

Kinsela’s 383 Bourke St, Darlinghurst kniselas.com.au

Eden Bar and Nightclub 163 Russell Street, Melbourne edenbar.com.au

The Beresford 345 Bourke St, Surry Hills merivale.com.au/theberesfordhotel Flinders Hotel 63 – 65 Flinders St, Surry Hills theflindershotel.com.au Oxford Art Factory 38-46 Oxford St, Darlinghurst White Horse Hotel oxfordartfactory.com 381 Crown St, Surry Hills thewhitehorse.com.au White Revolver Cnr Curlewis + Campbell Parade Bondi Beach melbournepubs whiterevolver.com Central Lion Hotel Pontoon 3/221 La Trobe St, Melbourne Cockle Bay Wharf 201, Darling acemelbourne.com.au/mclion/ Harbour pontoonbar.com Shamiana 420 Lonsdale St, Melbourne Hotel Steyne shamiana.com.au 75 The Corso, Manly hotelsteyne.com.au Star Bar Hotel Melbourne 160 Clarendon Street, South Melbourne starbarhotel.com.au

Turf Bar 131 Queen St Melbourne turfbar.com.au Fluid Oz Bar 450 Elizabeth Street Melbourne yelp.com.au Bar Humbug 586 Little Bourke St Melbourne barhumbug.com.au Eurotrash Bar 18 Corrs Lane Melbourne eurotrashbar.com.au The Night Owl 35 Elizabeth Street Melbourne nightowl.com.au

beerdeluxe.com.au

adelaide pubs Grace Emily Hotel 232 Waymouth St, Adelaide yourbars.com.au Electric Circus 17 Crippen Place, Adelaide electriccircus.com.au Crown and Sceptre Hotel 308 King William Street, Adelaide sceptre.com.au The Promethean 116 Grote St, Adelaide theprom.com Club 58 58 Hindley St, Adelaide club58.com.au

perth pubs The Subiaco Hotel 465 Hay Street, Subiaco

subiacohotel.com.au Voodoo Lounge 174 James St, Northbridge voodoolounge.com.au

The Apartment Nightclub 401 Little Bourke Street Melbourne theapartment.com.au Cherry Bar 103 Flinders Lane Melbourne myspace.com/cherrybarmelbourne Corner Hotel 57 Swan Street Richmond cornerhotel.com East Brunswick Club 280 Lygon St Brunswick East eastbrunswickclub.com

HAPPY HOUR The Flying Fox wing night The Fox Hotel, Brisbane. Wing Night, Monday. Half a kilogram of delicious buffalo wings (mild or spicy) and a pot of James Squire beer for just $12. Fly in for a feed on Mondays. Cnr Hope & Melb St, Sth Brisbane

thefox.com.au

Esplanade Hotel 11 The Esplanade, St Kilda espy.com.au Northcote Social Club 301 High Street Northcote northcotesocialclub.com Palace Theatre palace.com.au

HAPPY HOUR $20 cocktail teapots for two Wolf Lane, Perth. Open till close every day. Choose from a wide selection of delicious cocktail teapots for you and a special somebody to share any time you feel like it. Rear 321 Murray St, Perth

wolflane.com.au

tntdownunder.com

719_Pubs LF.indd 10

3/4/13 11:37:25 PM

DAILY SPECIALS Monday $10 All Pizzas* Tuesday Any Two Meals for the Price of 1* Wednesday $15 Steak* or Salmon Thursday & Sunday $15 Fish & Chips with House Wine or Selected Tap Beer Friday & Saturday Lunch + All Day Sunday $10 Burgers Friday Night $10 All Pizzas*

Full menu available at the bar. Special not available on Public Holidays or with any other offer. *On 2 for 1 Tuesday the highest price item will be charged. *Steak is a Rump on specials. *Pizzas are the 28cm diameter and on Friday nights they are available from 5pm. 100 GEORGE ST, THE ROCKS PH: (02) 8070 9311 BAR100.COM.AU

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bar100sydney

@bar_100

4/04/13 9:00 PM

pUBLISTINGS The Shed 69-71 Aberdeen St Northbridge, the-shed.com.au Mint Nightclub Cnr Lake and James St, Northbridge mintnightclub.com Leederville Hotel 742 Newcastle St, Leederville East Perth leedervillehotel.com.au

brisbane pubs Hotel LA 68 Petrie Terrace, Brisbane hotella.com.au

hobart pubs Syrup Nightclub 39 Salamanca Pl, Battery Point syrupclub.com.au Republic Bar 299 Elizabeth St, Hobart republicbar.com.au Isobar 11 Franklin Wharf Hobart isobar.com.au

GPO Hotel 740 Anne St, Fort Valley gpohotel.com.au

Knopwood’s Retreat 39 Salamanca Pl Hobart (03)6223 5808

Canvas Club 16b Logan St, Woolloongabba canvasclub.com.au

The Duke 192 Macquarie Street Hobart theduke.com.au

The Fringe Bar Cnr Ann and Constance St fringebar.com.au

newcastle pubs

Port Office Hotel 40 Edwards St, Brisbane portofficehotel.com.au Sky Room 2/234 Wickham St, Fort Valley skyroom.com.au Bravo Bar Brunswick Central, 455 Brunswick St Fortitude Valley hotelbravo.com.au The Met Nightclub 256 Wickham St, Fortitude Valley themet.com.au The Exchange Hotel 131 Edward St, Brisbane theexchange.com.au Iceworks Cnr Given Tce & Dowse St, Paddington iceworks.com.au

Surfers pubs Blush Nightclub 21 Orchid Avenue Surfers Paradise blushnightclub.com.au Benowa Tavern 117 Ashmore Rd, Benowa surfersbeergarden.com Shooters Superclub Shop 46 The Mark Orchid Avenue Surfers Paradise shooterssuperclub.com

cairns pubs P.J. O’brien’s 87 Lake St, Cairns pjobriens.com.au

Gilligan’s Backpacker Hostel 57-89 Grafton St gilligansbackpackerhostel.com. au

Kent Hotel 59-61 Beaumont St, Hamilton thekenthotel.com.au

Lass O’Gowrie Hotel 14 Railway St, Wickham lassogowriehotel.com.au

Hamilton Hotel 71 Tudor St, Hamilton hamiltonhotel.com.au Beaumont Exchange Hotel Cnr Beaumont and Denison Street, Hamilton theexchangehotel.com.com.au Wickham Park Hotel 61 Maitland Rd, Islington thewicko.com.au Cricketers Arms 61 Bruce St, Cooks Hill tab.com.au Oriental Hotel 53 Bull St, Cooks Hill wotif.com.au Royal Inn Hotel Waratah 61/69 Station St, Waratah truelocal.com.au

byron bay pubs Cheeky Monkey’s 115 Jonson St, Byron Bay cheekymonkeys.com.au

Mary Ellen Hotel 57 Railway St, Mereweather maryellenhotel.com.au

The Northern 35-43 Jonson St, Byron Bay thenorthern.com.au

Bar Petite 5 King St, Newcastle barpetite.com.au

The Owl & The Pussycat 85 Jonson St, Byron Bay opcbyron.com.au

The Northern Star 112 Beaumont St, Hamilton northernstarhotel.com.au

Beach Hotel Bay Ln, Byron Bay beachhotel.com.au

Hamilton Station Hotel 2-6 Beaumont St, Islington hamiltonstation.com.au

Woody’s Surf Shack 90-96 Jonson St, Byron Bay woodysbyronbay.com

Prince of Wales Hotel 1 Morgan St, Mereweather princeofwales.com.au

Lala Land Level 1 / 6 Lawson Street, Byron Bay lalalandbyronbay.com.au The Aztec Montezuma 32 Lawson St, Byron Bay aztecmontezuma.com.au

Wests Mayfield 32 Industrial Dr, Mayfield westnewcastle.com.au

The Balcony Bar 7/3 Lawson St, Byron Bay balcony.com.au

Lemon Grove Hotel 112 Nelson St, Wallsend tab.com.au

Treehouse on Belongil 25 Childe St, Byron Bay treehouseonbelongil.com

The Shaft Tavern 145 Croudance Rd, Elermore Vale theshafttavern.com.au

Bangalow Hotel 1 Byron St, Bangalow bangalowhotel.com.au

Sunyside Tavern 20 Broadmeadow Rd, Broadmeadow sunnysidetavern.com.au Premier Hotel 1 Brunker Rd, Broadmeadow hotelpremier.com.au

Fabric Cnr Shields and Esplanade St cairnsevents.com pubs

Isobar 1 Honeysuckle Drive Newcastle thelanding.com

Rattle N Hum 65-67 Esplanade rattlenhumbar.com

Cambridge Hotel 789 Hunter St, Newcastle yourcambridge.com

HAPPY HOUR!

Albion Hotel 72 Hannell St, Wickham thealbion.com.au

Kings Street Hotel 15 Steel St, Newcastle West kingsstreethotel.com.au

Hotel Delany 134 Darby St, Newcastle hoteldelany.com.au

@tnt_downunder

Discount drink Thursday ICBM’s, Canberra. Thursday Nights. One of the best places to go in the capital for some cheap drinks and the best selection of DJs you will find in the area on a Thursday. 50 Northbourne Ave, Canberra Mooseheads 105 London Circuit, Canberra mooseheads.com.au Academy Club 15 Bunda St, Canberra academyclub.com.au

Wollongong pubs Gilmore’s Hotel Coniston 28 Bridge St, Coniston hotelconiston.com.au Hotel Illawarra 160-164 Keira St, Wollongong hotelillawarra.com.au Mt Kembla Village Hotel 274 Cordeaux Rd, Mt Kembla mountkemblavillagehotel.com

icbmbar.com

Chequers Nite Spot Rooftop of the Piccadilly Centre, Wollongong

localbuzz.com.au North Wollongong Hotel 3 Flinders St, North Wollongong

northgong.com.au Rusty’s 5 Victoria St, Wollongongy

truelocal.com.au Bourbon St Nightclub 150 Keira St, Wollongong

bourbonst.com.au

HAPPY HOUR

Ocean Shores Tavern 84 Rajah Rd, Ocean Shores osartexpo.com

canberra pubs Transit Bar 7 Akuna St, Canberra transitbar.com.au Cube Nightclub 33 Petrie Plaza, City cubenightclub.com.au ICBM 50 Northbourne Ave, Canberra icbmbar.com

Live entertainment fri-Sun Bar Petite, Newcastle. Midday to Midnight. One of Newcastle’s trendiest small bars is also one of the city’s best live music venues on the weekends. 5 King St, Newcastle

barpetite.com.au

tntdownunder.com

719_Pubs LF.indd 12

3/4/13 11:44:54 PM

ANZAC DAY Lest We Forget At the Aussie

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Prepare to be entertained After his Olympics bash last year, director Danny Boyle makes his movie return with psych-thriller Trance. TNT meets him

Photos: Getty

Words alasdair morton

“I approached it the same way I do with everyone else,” director Danny Boyle tells us of his moments last year directing Her Madge for the Olympics opening ceremony. “She said, ‘I’ve been to the dentists this morning so I am not in a very good mood, tell me what you want’. So I did.” The last couple of years have been pretty eventful for Danny Boyle, even by his standards, yet sometime in the middle of putting on the opening ceremony to the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’, he managed to find time to make another film – the psychological, noir-esque thriller Trance. We sit down with the director and one of his leads, man of the moment James McAvoy, at ultra-glam The Soho Hotel, to find out more about the latest addition to Boyle’s increasingly impressive oeuvre. “It’s a twisty, turny little fucker of a movie,” says McAvoy, who is nursing broken fingers courtesy of his current Macbeth West End run. And he has a point. A heist movie that toys with the subconscious and our perception of reality, it starts with an auction theft (“I like films that burst in the door at the beginning,” Boyle says) in which McAvoy’s Simon is cracked over the head by Vincent Cassel’s art thief. After this the Scot (speaking in his own accent on screen for the first time in ages) finds the darkest recesses of his mind teased at and probed by Rosario Dawson’s hypnotherapist, as Cassel’s crim wants to know why his multi-million plan didn’t go to, well, plan, leaving him holding an empty case rather than a prized Goya. Trance flits through our minds, our wants, our desires as Simon falls under the hypnotist’s spell, with fractured narratives and perception-shifting points of view playing out throughout. “It is a series of increasing trances,” Boyle explains of the film that was lensed pre-Games but saved for now. In order to ensure accuracy and veracity, the cast went to hypnotism boot camp – yet with only varying degrees of success. “They tried it on me but it didn’t work,” McAvoy says. “I was a bit gutted because I was keen to be regressed or turned into a chicken or something, but it didn’t happen.

I went with it for about 10 minutes but then I was like, I need a pee and to scratch my leg. This isn’t working, mate. I’m sorry.” McAvoy was not one of the 5-10 per cent of the

“

It's a twisty, turny little fucker of a movie

”

population who are susceptible to hypnotism, it would seem. In Boyle’s last movie, 127 Hours, the filmmaker had one main character – the man stuck under the rock. Here he has three leads, with McAvoy, Dawson and Cassel. But storytelling challenges and playing with audiences’ and studios’ preconceptions are part and parcel of what drives this most enigmatic of filmmakers. “I am

On set: Boyle and (right) Cassel

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Star power: Danny Boyle on the red carpet with the cast of Trance. (L to R): Rosario Dawson, James McAvoy and Vincent Cassel

evangelical,” he tells us of his approach to making the movies he wants to make. He wants to originate his own projects and bring them in for under US$20million, which is a lot to you or I – and even a Premiership footballer – but small potatoes where Hollywood’s concerned. He’s an Oscar-winning director, he could have the pick of the scripts, so why this stringent approach? “I ask them [the actors] to make less money than they will elsewhere, and I keep the budget down because then we keep control of [the film’s] deviousness,” he explains. “I find it ludicrous when people are lent US$100 million and then [aren’t expected] to express an opinion.” Boyle keeps the budget low so he can stick to his guns, and Trance – darker even than 127 Hours, despite that film featuring a nauseating sequence in which the canyoneer saws off his own arm with a penknife – fits his style to a tee. It’s fast, flashy, with a kick-ass soundtrack courtesy of Underworld’s Rick Smith, and has mind-warping visuals. Yet these Boyle-isms refract a less praised element of his filmmaking prowess. “One of the things that doesn’t get paid to him is that he is an actors’ director,” McAvoy says. “He knows what we go through.” Starting out in regional theatre before moving towards the silver screen no doubt nurtured this approach. “He knows how to get [from you] what he wants without huge amounts of chat,” McAvoy adds. “He doesn’t have to go through stories from his life: ‘I remember this time when I was 10 years old and my granny smacked me and I felt this rage bubble up inside me, do you know what I mean?’ He gets you there with economy and grace.” It is this faith from others in his craft that persuades people to sign on for Boyle – indeed, it was this strength that shaped the opening ceremony into more than a Britain’s Got Talent charade – and gets them to go that extra mile. For Trance, this involved nude scenes with his leading

lady – one Dawson was up for from the get-go, understanding it was not gratuitous but integral to the story. “You do it with a closed set,” Boyle explains of the process. “There are some actors who regard part of their job as [being] that they have the whole of them available to you. “You’ll be surprised how the power shifts when you are in that moment. A lot of actors have said to me that they feel incredibly vulnerable until they do it, but then they have all the power. Once you have your kit off, whether it is on set or on stage, people daren’t look at you. No one wants to be in the situation where somebody naked says, ‘What are you looking at?’” Trance was actually filmed during Boyle’s two-year

“

It is about seducing the audience

”

preparation for the Olympics. He took a stint off to do Frankenstein on the London stage with Trainspotting alumni Jonny Lee Miller, with whom he may or may not re-team for a Spud, Renton, Begbie and Sick Boy sequel (he won’t do it if there is any chance it will disappoint). And he then took another sabbatical for this. So while Boyle was preparing to celebrate London, the UK, and all it has given the world, he was also beavering away on a movie in which murder and manipulation are high currency. Both projects were built around the same intent, though, in many ways. “Everything you do is about seducing the audience,” he says of the method behind the movie. Believe us, Trance will suck you right in. It may or may not make you think you are a chicken, though. ❚

Trance is out now. Read our review of the film on pg22

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Fed up of carrying around heavy guidebooks? Then TNT has the answer We’ve published our 2013 Independent Traveller’s Guide to Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. tn td ow nu nd er. co m

It’s free, it’s online and it’s full of tips on where to go, what to do and how to find work.

AUSTRA

It’s also got listings for all the best hostels, tour companies and job agencies for all three countries, complete with links that will take you straight to their websites.

ZEALAN LIA, NEW

PENDENT THE INDE RS'

E TRAVELL

GUIDE

EALAND IA, NEW Z AUSTRAL

D & FIJI

2013

A Product UK £9.95 D WHERE SOL

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& FIJI

If you’re travelling on, there’s also sections on Papua New Guinea and Samoa. To check it out, just head to tntdownunder.com and click the link on the right hand side.

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5/4/13 10:00:00 AM

WIN

Are you spotted in the circle?

Email us at tom@ tntdownunder.com with ‘Spotted’ in the subject line, email must include a photo of yourself! Boom - you’ve won $100 bar tab!! Like us on facebook/ tntdownunder for more party pics from the night!

Scary Canary Wet Wednesday www.scarycanarybar.com

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CHATROOM

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Laneways of Melbourne Ulo Pukk, co-author of a new photography book on Melbourne’s laneways talks to us about his favourite areas, bars and street art in Victoria’s culture capital INTERVIEW alex harmon

Blxxxxxxxx

Got a secret spot you can share with us? The Urban Workshop Building near Madame Brussells Lane is a modern beautiful building, which has on display items from Melbourne’s early days. The lanes around the building are also quite interesting to explore. Favourite bar? I was blown away when walking down Russell 20

Place and first saw the stunningly beautiful Bar Ampere. There are so many interesting and eclectic bars in unlikely laneways, including the Croft Institute in Croft Alley, built around a science laboratory; the glamorous Baroq House in Drewery Lane; Misty Place in the street art Hosier Lane; the chic Murmur Bar in Warburton Lane and so many more to discover. Best place to shop? While the large department stores in the city are fantastic, South Wharf and the Docklands have a surprising number of direct factory outlets. Well worth checking out. Best street art you’ve seen… The best street art I have seen is in a lane un-officially known as ‘Blender Lane’. It is situated next to Blender Studios and contains street art that could rival paintings in galleries. Donaldson Lane contains some interesting street art. Other lanes that are more popular and contain great street art are Hosier, Union and Rutledge Lanes and Duckboard Place.

What do you think of the laneway culture emerging in Sydney? A cheap imitation? Sydney is following Melbourne’s example and is adding life to the city. It seems more difficult to make it work by adding on later, in comparison to Melbourne’s lanes which have been in operation since early days. Sydney seem to have a much smaller number of lanes, but what they are doing with them is great. Melbourne and Sydney can always learn from each other. Anything you don’t like about Melbourne? The city is developing fast and there are always improvements that can be made. I think it is a pity to see a few of the heritage buildings around the city are unused and in poor condition. It would also be excellent if there was a rail link to Tullamarine airport. If I only had one day in Melbourne… Put on your running shoes and make tracks from Flinders Street Station along the Campbell Arcade into Degraves Street, then north along Centre Place. Feel free to indulge in a coffee

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Photos: Ulo Pukk, Kornelia Freeman

What makes the laneways so special? Melbourne’s laneways add another dimension to the city’s layout. While the majority of people travel in the main streets, there are hidden delights that can be discovered in the often by-passed lanes. History can be discovered while walking down a lane. Surprises can pop up at any time, from varied art work or a variety of stores. Some of the lanes are known for their street art, others for their history and others for their bars, restaurants and shops. Some have have bricked in windows and doorways and old signage, such as Albion Alley, once a terminus for Cobb & Co. Coaches. Bluestone pavement and the old and new paintwork have a story to tell.

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along the way. Head west to admire the spectacular dome of the former Bank at 333 Collins Street, and continue to the Rialto Tower to admire the hotel. North through Bank Place and along Queen Street shows some fabulous old architectural buildings. From Lonsdale Street travel south through Niagara Lane to Elizabeth Street, to walk through the former GPO. Head south through Royal Arcade and explore Block Place and Block Arcade. Catch the City Circle tram to the docklands, along New Quay Promenade and see the statues in the piazza, north through Wharf Street to the Observation Wheel. Retake the tram to Flinders and King street corner. If time allows the Melbourne Aquarium is worth visiting, travel south to walk along the Yarra Promenade and continue to the top of Eureka Tower for a city view.

Photos: Ulo Pukk, Kornelia Freeman

Most photographic place you’ve visited? There is so much beauty around that makes this question difficult to answer. The Grand Canyon is my choice, Kornelia selects New Zealand and Tasmania. We have photographed around Australia and there are spectacular places of beauty all around. Victoria rates highly, there is so much beauty and you don’t need to travel far from Melbourne. What were you working on before this book? My background is in I.T and Kornelia [co-author] is a secondary school teacher. We are working on a series of books, called The Portraits of Victoria. The series shows the beauty that can be found in Victoria, historical places and points of interest for people to visit. The Dandenong Ranges and The Yarra Valley are the other books available. Laneways of Melbourne is the third book of the series. Currently we are working on a book covering Mornington Peninsula to Wilson’s Promontory.

The Laneways of Melbourne book can be purchased from most bookstores (including Dymocks, Readers Feast, Mary Martin, online stores), the website portraitsofvictoria.com.au/ or Melbourne Books melbournebooks.com.au

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filmreview

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A post-modern selfie

trance FILM review by Alasdair Morton. Out now Starring: James McAvoy, Rosario Dawson, Vincent Cassel | MA | 101mins

identity thief Review by Adele Rogers Jason Bateman, Melissa McCarthy, John Favreau, John Cho | M | 111 mins

Simple businessman Sandy Bigelow Patterson (Jason Bateman) is forced to hunt down the woman who stole his identity (Melissa McCarthy) and bring her back to his home state. With bounty hunters close on their tail, the pair take the hilarious ride from Miami to Denver where Sandy hopes to save his job and his name. Easy humour and a great cast make this one worth seeing. 22

What’s Danny Boyle been up to since the Olympics opening ceremony? Not this, his first feature released post-Games – it was actually shot before last summer – but as a multiplex ‘comeback’ nonetheless, it is a stonking return Re-teamed with old producer and writing partner John Hodge (Shallow Grave, Trainspotting), Trance is a fast-paced, fractured, perception-shifting noir thriller. James McAvoy is art auctioneer Simon, who’s hit over the head by Cassel’s thieving hood during a heist. His subsequent amnesia is a big concern after the fact, though, as somewhere deep in the recesses of his mind is the secret to the doublecross that left the art-hungry gang holding nothing but an empty bag. It’s Boyle doing Inception in many ways, as Simon visits hypnotherapist Elizabeth (Rosario Dawson), who unlocks all kinds of subconscious-buried impulses, and pickles his grip on reality in the process. Hodge’s script is ambitious and funny (“everyone knows amnesia is bullshit”, one character quips) and Boyle brings his trademark visual flair (mirrors refract light and images all over the place as Simon descends deeper into disbelief) and infectious energy, with a thumping soundtrack. Where it could have been an overly serious sophisticate, Trance is a loose and cheeky film, too – there are a number of stand-out ‘ick’ moments (a savaged halfexploded head chats away to Simon at one point) and ample flesh on display. It’s a mind-warping noir-ish maze you’ll definitely want to get lost in. Good for: Seeing one of Britain’s best-loved filmmakers back on the big screen

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lifestyleliving the best races for the serious runner

Tough Mudder: Mud, fire, ice, and 10,000 volts of electricity make this obstacle course seriously insane

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Thrill of the race Top five races in the country that won’t break your spirit Words alexandra e. petri

Pyramid Race: The brains of two crazy cane farmers. Run up a 922m mountain in stinking hot Cairns

Sydney Marathon: Run over 42km. I don’t care that it’s scenic and iconic, that’s a long run

We get it. You’re living abroad, you’re travelling the world, you’re having The Glow Run the time of your life. Probably the only exercise you’re getting is when you’re sprinting through airports or few simple rules to this 1.6km race: undies, to that impossible-to-find travel agent or PJ’s, including but not limited to briefs, where you booked that non-refundable g-strings, dressing gowns, teddies and ticket. No one wants to be the buzzkill y-fronts must be worn – whether it’s above waking up every morning training for a or instead of your running gear. Aside from marathon while everyone else is nursing the awesome advantage of running in your hangovers or lulling the day away. Yet undies (or PJ’s), the race raises money for the not all marathons and races require their Forget Me Not Children’s Home. All entry participants to be as fast and serious as fees go toward the charity, and additional Usain Bolt. From running through the donations will be made for any runners streets in nothing but your Speedos to donning Tuffeys or Tuffettes. Run, walk or a fun run that feels like rave, Australia crawl (in an animated fashion) across the offers heaps of races for all levels of finish line. Whatever you do, you’re sure to fitness, no matter what your goals or have fun in this one. herveybaytri.com.au/ reasons are. There’s even a race where UndieRun.html you’re chased by zombies planned for next year. So get those trainers laced up, The Glow Run because we’re here to bring you five of Australia’s best and most fun races. It’s not just your time to shine – it’s your Hervey Bay Undie Run

Deep Space: In this 42km mountain marathon you’ll compete with snow, heat and wild kangaroos

The first place winner will take home the Gold – the Golden Boxers that is. It’s a unique race and one worth making the trip up to Hervey Bay for. This May marks the second annual Australian Men’s Fitness HBT Great Undie (and PJ’s) Run. There’s only a

time to glow. This is an event that was so contagious, it’s now making its way around Australia. Kicking off in Melbourne with races planned for Sydney, Perth and Brisbane, The Glow Run is a 5K party that starts when the lights go out. Organisers encouraging participants to don either their glow-in-the-dark event T-shirts, glowsticks and gear or to get as crazy and creative with

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The Undie Run

The Color Run

their attire as possible. Ever felt like running a race dressed as Superman or Superwoman because you really do think you’re just that super? Don’t hold back. Go out and glow like the champion you know you are with the Glow Run. It’s an un-timed, participation event with DJ’s pumping beats all along the way to get you into the groove, whether it’s walking, running or dancing. glowrun.com.au

Photos: TNT Images, Swisse Color Run, HBT Undie Run

The Color Run Think India’s colourful Holi celebrations meets running, and what do you get? The ‘Happiest 5K on the Planet’, better know as the Color Run. If you’ve never raced before, then you can guarantee the Color Run is the greatest way to make a splash in the world of racing. It’s an un-timed race, so there’s no need to be able to run a kilometre in under five minutes. The only thing you need to worry about as you come up on each kilometre-mark is getting soaked with as many wonderfully bright colours possible. You’ll emerge from the race as the most awesome double rainbow ever to exist. The Color Run made its Australian debut in 2012, and its popularity exploded across the nation. If you missed it last time around, don’t fret, it will be back and making its mark around Oz once again, kicking off up on the Gold Coast in April and Sydney again in August. theswissecolorrun.com.au

Sydney Skinny This was one that made the news, and we can totally

understand why. We’ve all had a cheeky skinny dip before, so why not make a race out of it? The Sydney Skinny is a 900 metre swim and was held for the first time this past February. Its popularity exceeded expectations, with over 600 swimmers participating, paving the way for it to become an annual event in Sydney Harbour. If you’re even the little bit shy, throw caution to the wind and build up the confidence to take part in the world’s only registered naked swim competition next year. thesydneyskinny.com.au

The Great Tribal Chase We’ve all dreamed about winning The Amazing Race. Well, The Great Tribal Chase in May (Sydney) will have you feeling like your dreams have finally come true. Not all races require stamina, speed, rock-hard abs and legs of steel for you to come out on top. The Great Tribal Chase is a race that tests just how clever we are, and as travellers, we often pride ourselves on the creative little ways we think of to get ourselves out of any situation. Each tribe participating in the race is armed with only a map and a mobile phone, left with just their superior skills and outstanding wit to solve the riddles and problems in just four hours. We all love a cheeky bit of trivia every now and again, so whether you’re teaming up against your mates or proving to all of Sydney that you’re the city’s greatest problem solver, it’s an event filled with laughs to be had. Donations for the chase go towards charity, so you’re all winners, really. thegreattribalchase.gofundraise.com.au tntdownunder.com

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WORLDVIEW

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Off the rails: train thieves

come on baby, steal a locomotive...

australia

Two Queensland teenagers have been charged after stealing a diesel engine locomotive and crashing it. The two brazen lads convinced staff they were qualified to drive the large train. However, the would-be train robbers only managed to move it by a metre before smashing it into a carriage. “The heritage diesel locomotive actually bumped three heritage carriages on to a heritage rail motor,” Mary Valley Heritage Railway president Tony Hallam explained. A 17- and 18-year-old have been charged and will both appear at Gympie Magistrates Court later in April.

be quiet, waves, I’m trying to sleep

Photos: Getty Images

worldwide

Complaints by cruise ship passengers include one by a woman who moaned about the sea being “too loud”, it has been revealed. Complaints by cruise ship passengers include one by a woman who moaned about the sea being “too loud”, it has been revealed. A couple also accused a captain of being “rude” for sailing off when they had left a note saying they needed more sightseeing time in port, according to cruise travel agency bonvoyage.co.uk. One woman, having seen Take That star Gary Barlow had been on her ship on an earlier trip, demanded an explanation as to why the singer was not on her voyage. Then there was the man who complained about not getting “an impressive tan” and being unable to swim in the pool while on

From a distance: Chris Hadfield, Canadian astronaut currently living in space aboard ISS as Commander of Expedition 35, tweets a picture of the sun getting ready to set into the horizon of Southwestern Australia. Yep, that’s pretty cool a trip around Alaska. Bonvoyage.co.uk cruise development manager Steph Curtin said: “From time to time we come across a few quirky complaints that we can do little to help.”

oral sex? that’s just batty... india

Male bats perform cunnilingus on females in order to prolong sex, according to research by LiveScience. Scientists studied a colony of 420 fruit-eating bats in India for more than 13 months, taking notes on their sexual habits. They found that, initially, males groomed

their penises to get erect before approaching a female. If they didn’t move away, the male would lick their vagina before mating. Afterwards, they finished off with more oral sex, the obviously vital study found. Researchers suspect that copulation prolonged by foreplay may also lead to enhanced conception. “Apart from humans, bats also exhibit oral sex as a courtship behaviour,” said Ganapathy Marimuthu, a bat researcher at Madurai Kamaraj University in India. Fascinating.

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THIS WEEK

IN NUMBERS 10

Amount of weeks Emily Marsh, 13, from Surrey, has hiccuped every two seconds, keeping her awake all night

Cost, in thousands of pounds, of newspaper ad Dinshah Vimadalal took out in the Times Of India to find a wife

Starkers: daredevil rows across the river

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naked man rows croc-filled river

australia

Only in the Northern Territory. A fisherman risked his life by rowing a log across a crocodile-infested river – all to win two cases of bourbon. The man, who, unsurprisingly, didn’t want to be named, stripped naked for the prank, which happened during a day drinking beer and fishing with mates. The notoriously saltwater croc-infested Daly River was swollen from heavy rain and a number of large logs and parts of trees were caught in the fast-flowing waters. Witness Billy Innes said: “Huge trees were hammering down the river. It was quite a sight. Someone dared him to get on to one and row across the river.” The naked rower revealed his motivation for the stunt: “I’d enjoyed a few beers and it seemed a good idea at the time.” These things always do.

life-changing eye op for wallaby

new zealand

A 19-month-old wallaby has been able to see for the first time following lifesaving cataract surgery. Wahloo was born with the cloudy white condition and underwent surgery in a New Zealand-first in December to relieve the build up of fluid behind his eyes. The wallaby had the operation in Palmerston North and last week marked the end of its long and slow recovery. “They’ve given this little guy a whole

Weight, in pounds, of a WWII bomb found near Berlin’s main railway station which had to be evacuated

Incline, in degrees, of the Scenic Railway in the Blue Mountains which has just reopened after a £20m refurbishment

QUOTE OF THE WEEK new lease of life, and quadrupled his quality of life,” owner Caroline Girdlestone said. “He has his independence, his selfrespect, he is brave and happy.”

man stages april fool joke crash

I still seem to shock people, though I look terribly respectable now in my old age

california

It’s the plane crash that never was. A businessman staged an elaborate April Fool joke last Monday. Billy Cheesman Jr used a forklift to arrange a small aircraft on the fence that runs in front of his equipment rental business, as if it had nosedived there. He also strung yellow caution tape around to make it resemble a crash scene. Cheesman says someone gave him the two-seat experimental plane and he’s been trying to figure out what to do with it. He notified the Sheriff’s Department before he set up the prank. Hilarious.

Barry Humphries aka Dame Edna Everage

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SPORTNEWS

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Sunk: Lance Armstrong’s failed return

swimming says no to armstrong

swimming

Disgraced cyclist Lance Armstrong announced he was to make a return to competitive sport last week at a swimming competition – only for swimming’s governing body to nix his plans and deny his entry. Armstrong, who lost his seven Tour De France titles for allegedly using performance enhancing drugs, announced his intention to compete in the Masters South Central Zone Swimming Championships at the University of Texas last weekend. The International Swimming Federation (Fina) objected, stating his lifetime doping ban applied to all Masters events, too. Armstrong had signed up to compete in the 500-yard, 1000-yard and 1650-yard freestyle events before withdrawing.

australia announce central contracts cricket

Australia have announced their centrally contracted players for 20132014 with several of those from the disastrous Test in India omitted. Moises Henriques, Usman Khawaja, Jackson Bird and Steve Smith were all part of the 4-0 drubbing endured in India last month but have been left off the list. Khawaja was one of four players controversially dropped for the third Test, too, for a discipline issue in which a preparatory task handed out by coach Mickey Arthur to make a presentation on how the team could improve failed to be completed. Australia land in the UK this July to contend the Ashes, hoping to overturn England’s two consecutive victories. 28

Dusty Payne of Hawaii, US, looks to impress in his third round heat in the Rip Curl Pro competition at Bells Beach last week. He ended up losing to Aussie Taj Burrow

tevez fined for driving when banned football

Manchester City’s Carlos Tevez was found guilty of driving when banned and fined $1400 – an hour’s pay. It has been revealed Tevez was fined for driving and having no insurance last month after an anonymous tip-off alerted the authorities. He has now been banned from driving for six months and ordered to complete 250 hours of community service. The fine handed out – just over $1400 – amounts to little more than pocket change for the City star as it is said to constitute roughly an hour’s work. The midfielder is rumoured to pocket a whopping $290,000 a week in wages. Nice work if you can get it.

BIG WEEK FOR ... Chelsea interim manager Rafa Benitez goes into this weekend’s FA Cup semi- final to defend the title, but also aware that the competition offers the Blues’ only chance of silverware this season. His rocky time at Stamford Bridge saw him triumph over old adversary Alex Ferguson as Demba Ba’s stunning goal gave Chelsea a 1-0 win over Man Utd to set up a semi-final with City. With the title conceded to their crosstown neighbours, City’s eye will be on silverware of some sort too, meaning this Premier League clash – the winners taking on either Wigan or Millwall in the final – carries even more importance.

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QUOTEs OF THE WEEK I would like to stay in a top side. A top side, why not in England? Chelsea boss Rafa Benitez puts out the feelers for a new position after his interim role comes to its expected end this summer

Winning ways: Woods goes into the Masters as world number one

PREVIEW WOODS AND MCILROY FACE OFF IN MASTERS THE MASTERS

Thur to sun, bbc tv

Photos:Getty

After McIIroy’s spectacular collapse at Augusta two years ago, everyone wrote him off, sure he’d never recover. After Tiger Woods became the most infamous golfer to feel the full force of his clubs, everyone wrote him off, too. They said he’d never be the world’s biggest sportsman – which he undoubtedly was – ever again. Both have proved their naysayers wrong, making the year’s first major here too close to call. McIlroy goes into it in terrible form,

struggling with his new equipment, while Woods is back to the world number one spot after three wins this season. Will McIlroy regain the form that’s so spectacularly deserted him? Or will Woods continue his rapid ascent to his previous lofty viewpoint from where he lauded it over the rest of the sporting world? While relieved to be out of the limelight, there is still pressure for McIlroy, who’s shown he is brittle when his back’s against the wall. Woods, conversely, is bullish yet relaxed. Just like the king he used to be. Our money is on Woods continuing to rise.

He’s said he can’t turn back the clock but he’s accepted what he did was wrong Red Bull principal Christian Horner explains Sebastian Vettel’s backtrack after ignoring team orders and passing teammate Mark Webber at the Malaysian Grand Prix

One bad tour doesn’t define a squad and I’m confident we can take the fight to England Australia captain Michael Clarke is optimistic of success in this summer’s Ashes despite their 4-0 thumping by India last month

TV HIGHLIGHTS

THE CHAT | Why won’t Joey Barton shut up?

AFL

his latest Twitter outburst, calling PSG’s Q After Thiago Silva a fat ladyboy, is there anything that can be done to keep Joey Barton in line? Barton is many things: a gobshite; a talented footballer; and a A leopard incapable of changing his spots. This latest outburst has found him in hot water yet again, with Marseille likely to discipline the on-loan QPR striker, but it is unlikely to have any affect on the Merseyside-born player who’s got seven red cards under his belt in his professional career. Calling PSG’s Thiago an ”overweight ladyboy” and asking him whether he is “pre-op or post-op” is just another sign of an attention-hungry motormouth who craves the limelight in any shape or form and will do and say anything to keep himself in it.

The 2nd Round of the AFL season Sat 4:30pm, Fox Footy

GWS v St Kilda

Rugby League Souths v Melbourne The Rabbitohs and Storm battle it out Sat 7:30pm, Fox Sports 1

Golf Lotte Championship Rd 1 Controversial: Barton

The best golfers descend on Hawaii April 18, 7:30am. Fox Sports 3 tntdownunder.com

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TRAVEL HOTSHOTS | travel news | Travel deals | Travel stories |

Photos: Thinkstock, Getty

IMAGE OF THE WEEK

dream weaver Artist Del Kathryn Barton’s depiction of Aussie actor Hugo Weaving wins this year’s prestigious Archibald Prize

INSIDE

camp it up

/38

Pitch a tent in some of the most scenic places in Australia. Who wants 5 star when you can sleep with a billion stars? 30

at whit’s end /46

bright lights

We put a writer on a train. She ended up in Airlie Beach, Queensland and hopped on a boat to sail the Whitsundays. Life’s tough

We see all the colours of the rainbow during a week’s stopover in Tokyo, Japan. And that was just during our breakfast

/56

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HOT TIPS: Texture Symmetry and patterns can make great, eye catching images. The beauty of these types of photos is they’re easy to find – symmetry is everywhere, or you can set up a shot yourself. Architecture often uses repeating patterns and symmetry so often that it often goes unappreciated. Before shooting, look around to see if there’s a way to bring symmetry to the shot.

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Photos were judged by the TNT editorial team at their own discretion. Send high-res (300 dpi) jpegs with name, age, nationality and a description, to: hugh@tntdownunder.com Monthly winner Tina wins three days campervan hire from Mighty Campers Australia (mightycampers.com.au)

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russian banksy dies A prominent Russian graffiti artist who hid his identity under the alias Pasha P183 and has been compared to Britain’s Banksy for his bold style and anonymity has died mysteriously at age 29. One of his most famous works featured a huge pair of glasses painted on a snow-covered yard with a lamppost serving as one arm Another piece showed chocolate bars painted on concrete, an image he said reflected the commercialisation of art and life. He disliked comparisons to Banksy, saying they belittled his own style.

Photos: Thinkstock

‘high’ quality food

An online clothes store and a major fashion brand have combined with a Dutch ad agency to bring out a cookbook devoted solely to marijuana related recipes. Online men’s fashion retailer, FreshCotton, and Stüssy have collaborated on a limited edition T-shirt and a Baked cookbook. The cookbook was produced in collaboration with the ad agency, Arnold Amsterdam and features recipies include marijuana chicken rolls with hashish quenelles and a marijuana coulis. Food that gives you the munchies? That surely defeats the point?

Back in Black When the terrible earthquakes struck Christchurch in 2011 it wasn’t just the people of the city who were shaken to their core. So too was Sanitarium, New Zealand’s only producer of the breakfast spread, Marmite. But now, nearly a year since the last jars of Marmite disappeared from the shelves of New Zealand’s convenience stores, supermarkets and corner stores, the producers of the hugely popular spread are back in business. Retailers across New Zealand have been told to ration customers to just two jars per person until supply is more readily available.

a spine for a spine A Saudi court has condemned a man to be surgically paralyzed as punishment for a crime which resulted in the victim being confined to a wheelchair. The ruling has sparked outrage around the globe and particularly from human rights group Amnesty International who claim that surgically paralyzing somebody is tantamount to torture. Ali al-Khawaher, 24, has already spent the last decade in prison waiting for his parents to raise the $100,000 required to mollify his victim’s relatives. Under Sharia law eye-for-an-eye punishments punishment for crimes is allowed.

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Details During May we’re offering Bloody Great Deals on the Great Ocean Road! The Port Campbell Hostel and Ocean House Backpackers have teamed up with local traders to provide unbeatable value for those things you love and need... like cheap beer, food and fuel! To unlock the bargains, all ya’ need to do is contact either of the featured hostels and mention TNT. Destination Port Campbell Vic. Dates Bookings made throughout the month of May Price Dorm rooms start from $30 per night/per person web www.portcampbellhostel.com.au & www.oceanhousebackpackers.com

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From slumming it to glamping it

Welcome to tent city Bust out the swag, dust off that deck of cards and fill up the Esky, we present you with our favourite camping spots in Australia Words hugh radojev + adele rogers

The camping holiday is not necessarily something for everyone. You are either for or against the camping holiday. Indeed Mother Nature and her great outdoors brook no fence sitters, there is no room for neutral shades in a world of vibrantly coloured foliage, birds and bugs. If you are a fence sitter, or indeed someone for whom the idea of sleeping out under the stars causes your heart rate to quicken and the first quivers of a full blown panic attack to start at the base of your spine, look away now! Go do a cryptic crossword, take some rhubarb to your sullied pots, 38

write a letter to your childhood pen pal or something else interminably dull and boring. This article is for the campers, the outdoorsman, the river waders and nature hikers. Those for whom the five stars found in resorts aren’t worth the millions you can see at night by the light of the fire. For whom a sleeping bag is just as comfortable a place to sleep as any queen sized mattress or four-poster bed. And what place better for it than fair Australia? From the coastal beaches to the desert red centre you are guaranteed to find some of the world’s most beautiful, awe inspiring

landscapes. Jagged, snow dusted mountain peaks, verdant green valleys, crystal clear, meandering rivers, sandy dunes and magnificent rocky crags. We’ve scoured the length and breadth of Australia from Tasmania to the Northern Territory and from the east coast to the west in search of some of the best campsites, caravan parks and campgrounds where you can pitch your tent. So come gentle readers, strap on your pair of sturdiest walking shoes, fill up your backpack with essentials and make sure your sleeping bag has been properly stuffed, because we’re going camping.

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Self-drive camping, Queensland

Stradbroke Island

Booderee National Park, Jervis Bay (South Coast NSW) Tell me more: Located approximately 150 kilometers south of Sydney, the beautiful, gleaming white sands of Jervis Bay are one of the region’s best-loved camping spots. Three different campsites within the National park area are open year round for campers to enjoy: Green Patch, Bristol Point and Cave Beach. As all three names suggest each site is located on the water, by the dazzling white sand beaches of Jervis Bay, some of the whitest, most beautiful sand you’ll see anywhere in the world. While the crystal blue waters of the Tasman are great for swimming and surfing, they are also perfect for fishing, boating and – perhaps most famously of all – scuba diving. Fill your tank up at the little town of Huskisson before exploring the rock formations off Murrays Beach. There are also plenty of spots for keen anglers to drop in a line (so long as you’ve got a NSW fishing license, of course) but it might be best to check on the website or with a ranger what species you can and cannot take as a number of species are protected. There’s also great whale watching to be had from spots like Cape St George Lighthouse. From there you’ll be able to see humpback and southern right whales migrating north between June and July to breed in the warm waters off the coast of Queensland.

Innes National Park, Yorke Peninsula

Photos:, TNT Images, Tourism Australia, Beth Wode

Yorke Peninsula

(South australia) Tell me more: South Australia’s Yorke Peninsula has long been the number one destination for surfers and fishermen alike. Yorkes boasts sparkling clear waters, white sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, fascinating history and some of the best fishing and surfing in the country. The National Park covers 92 square kilometres on the southwest tip of the peninsula, and is one of the most spectacular and untouched wildlife havens in Australia. There are eight camping spots within the park which offer wilderness camping at its best. The campgrounds are small and have basic facilities including long-drop toilets, yet offer access to magnificent small coves, sandy beaches and rolling surf. The most well known is Pondalowie Bay which is a famous surf beach and home to regular surf events. Pondalowie is also base to a large lobster fishing fleet. Yorke Peninsula’s waters provide some of the best fishing the state has to offer. Even the most inexperienced fisherman can cast a line from the beach or jetty to catch squid, King George whiting, garfish, tommy ruff mullet, flathead and Australian salmon. There is an abundance of history in the area. At the turn of the twentieth century many ships sank along the treacherous coast and the skeletons of around 40 shipwrecks are a hot spot for divers today. As well as spectacular heritage and coastal scenery, Innes provides a wide variety of recreational activities including bushwalking and photography. AR

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Idyllic beach camping

XXXX Island, Capricorn Coast (queensland)

STRADBROKE ISLAND (QUEENSLAND)   Stradbroke Island or ’Straddie’ as it is referred to by locals, is a picturesque island south-east of Brisbane. The sand island is split into two by the Jumpinpin Channel. North Stradbroke Island is the larger of the two, stretching 38 kilometres long and 11 kilometres wide, while South Stradbroke Island is approximately 22 kilometres long and only 2 kilometres wide. Only a short 30 minute ferry ride from the mainland, the island offers an abundance of adventure activities including surfing, fishing, snorkelling, scuba diving, kayaking, 4WDriving and bushwalking. The island is renowned for its native wildlife. There are 18 species of land mammals such as wallabies, kangaroos, echidnas, koalas and bandicoots, as well as several reptile and bird species. The marine wildlife include dolphins, turtles, manta rays, humpback whales and dugong. Both islands offer campgrounds ranging from powered sites and cabins to secluded beach camping sites nestled among the island’s iconic white sand dunes. AR

Tell me more: Yes, this is an island designed by a Queensland beer company and marketed as some kind of ultimate manholiday, a chance for men to take a weekend away from their better halves and bro out with their mates. Yet, fear not ladies you’re more than welcome too! While you can stay in any number of man themed cabins that have somewhat silly names like The Locker Room and House of Rock (quelle surprise) you can also stay in special Safari Tents that were import from South Africa. These huge, purpose built tents are much more spacious than your average little dome and come complete with fold out beds, fresh pressed linen and electric lighting. It’s glamping at its finest. XXXX Island is so full of things to do that the 48 hours or so you’ll have on this little slice of paradise simply wont be enough. Swim, kayak, play beach cricket, sunbathe, take a walking tour of the island, play with the island’s mascot, 18-month old kelpie, Spinner or play a one-hole round of golf while never having to leave the bar. Speaking of the bar, there are also plenty of opportunities to drink beer.

XXXX Island

Dawson Spring, Mt Kaputar NP (NSW) Tell me more: An hour or so drive north of the norther of Narrabri, you’ll find the stunning ecological island that is Dawson Spring, in the Mount Kaputar National Parklands. One of the best views to be had anywhere in Australia. From the summit of Mount Kaputar, over 1500 meters above sea level you will find yourself with magnificent, 360 degree views of the sumptuous dry eucalypt forests and undulating hills of New South Wales’ North West Slopes. It is said that on a clear day you’ll be able to see a tenth of the whole of the state stretching out around you from that one vantage spot. If you book enough in advance you can even secure a camping spot just off the mount’s summit where you’ll be able to wake up to that amazing view. The region is also riddled with various hiking and nature walking trails, ranging from easy hour or so long jaunts to serious bushwalks through some rugged, mountainous country. The hike itself up to the summit of Mount Kaputar falls somewhere in between, but is well worth it. The beautiful, old growth eucalypt forests and the temperate, sub-alpine climate mean the region is also alive with native fauna and flora. Ornithological enthusiasts will enjoy the bounty of native birdlife, while kangaroos, wallabies and wombats also wander around freely.

MOUNT FIELD NATIONAL PARK (TASMANIA)   Tell me more: Just 64 kilometres north of Hobart lies Tasmania’s much loved Mount Field National Park. The park’s magnificent landscape ranges from eucalyptus temperature rainforest to 1434 metre high alpine terrain. The park essentially has two visitor areas, both of which are in extreme contrast to the other. The first offers visitors relaxing picnic facilities, access to the famous Russell Falls and breathtaking walks through enormous fern covered rainforests containing some of the tallest trees in the world. The second area is centred at Lake Dobson and offers alpine countryside, dramatic mountain scenery and skiing areas. Depending on snow conditions, vehicles travelling to the summit may require chains. The National Park has campgrounds near the park entrance set in a picturesque forest by the Tyenna River. They offer excellent facilities including toilet and shower blocks, coin-operated washing machines, clothes driers, cooking facilities and hot water. AR

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Nitmiluk (Katherine Gorge) National Park

Halls Gap, The Grampians

(northern territory)  Outback Australia’s most impressive ancient sandstone region lies within the Nitmiluk National Park (Katherine Gorge) in the Northern Territory. Nitmiluk (Katherine) Gorge is made up of 13 separate gorges linked by a maze of sandstone-framed waterways. The waterways wind 12 kilometres through the idyllic landscape with walls more than 70 metres high. Visitors cruise in flat-bottomed boats, canoe, swim or walk to explore the magnificent gorges. The nearly 3,000 square kilometre National Park is owned by the Jawoyn Aboriginal people, who hold great ceremonial significance to the gorges and surrounding land. There are numerous walking trails ranging from strolls along the riverbanks to overnight walks and a five-day walk from Nitmiluk Gorge to Leliyn (Edith Falls). The 58 kilometre Jatbula Trail passes waterfalls, monsoon rainforest, stone country and Aboriginal rock art, and ends at Leliyn, a tranquil camping ground near natural waterholes. Unpowered campsites at Leliyn include toilet and shower facilities, gas barbeques and picnic furniture. There are powered sites at Gorge campgrounds and elsewhere in the park bush camping areas have been established for nomad walkers and canoeists to crash. AR

(victoria) Tell me more: Located deep in the heart of the breathtaking Grampians Mountain Range in Western Victoria, about 235 kilometers west of Melbourne lies the stunning Halls Gap, one of the most picturesque camping sites anywhere in Australia. Nestled in amongst the stunning sandstone mountains that characterise this part of the world is the tiny town of Halls Gap that gives the campsite its name. The town has a pub and Brambuk – Australia’s longest running Aboriginal cultural centre and a population of around 200 people. The cooler months are perhaps the best time of the year to visit the mountains as waterfalls, creeks and rivers are flowing at their strongest, and recent rains means waterways are full for fishing and canoeing. As far as activities go, there are things available for everyone, whether you’re looking to relax and get a little closer to nature or for something a little more exhilarating like rock climbing and abseiling. The area is also dotted with a handful of beautiful wineries that utilise the mild, temperate climate to grow some of Australia’s best Shiraz and Pinot Noirs. Wineries are also a great place to sample some of the wonderful local food produce. If none of that takes your fancy though, just waking up in the lush, misty green of the forests will put a smile on anybody’s face.

LEEUWIN-NATURALISTE NATIONAL PARK

Camping with wombats, Springlawn, Tasmania

(WESTERN AUSTRALIA)   Tell me more: Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park at Cape Leeuwin in south-west Western Australia is renowned for its rugged coastline, windswept granite headlines and magnificent forest and rock formations. The rocky coast stretches 120 kilometres and offers excellent fishing, swimming, whale watching, world-class surf breaks, stunning bush walks and camping. Boranup Karri Forest lies within the National Park between Caves Road and the coast where 60 plus metre tall karri trees tower over the steep hills and valleys. The Boranup lookout provides sweeping views over the forest and coast. Australian humpback whales can be seen from the Cape Naturaliste coastline on their annual breeding migration travelling north from July and returning between October and December. Popular surf breaks along the coast include Smiths Beach and Yallingup, whereas swimming and snorkelling is best found at Prevelly and Gnarabup. Leeuwin-Naturaliste National Park is also home to the spectacular self-guided Calgardup and Giants caves. The National Park has several campgrounds with basic facilities including toilets, barbeques, picnic tables and water. There are also a selection of individual sites, some of which are located off the beaten track and should only be accessed by 4WD. The parks picnic and camping spots are connected by gravel roads suitable for two-wheel-drive vehicles. AR

Springlawn National Park (Tasmania) Tell me more: So abundant is the natural wildlife that roams this picturesque section of northern Tasmania that it has been dubbed the ‘Serengeti of Tasmania’. With such a variety of habitats in the park, birdlife is varied and prolific. But it is the humble pandelemon (a kind of wallaby/rat), wallaby and wombat that are the star attractions here. The cute animals are very used to human beings, perhaps more so than they are anywhere else. As a result you’ll be bound to get up close and personal with some marsupials during your stay, as they will often graze right in by your campsite. With the permission of a ranger you can also procure yourself some equine companions and set off on horse riding tours to help you explore the 4,349 hectares span of National Park. There are plenty of walking tours ranging from the gentle half hour return stroll along Bird Hide Walk to the more challenging six to eight hour treks along the coastal traverse or the 400 metres summit of Mt Asbestos and Point Vision.

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Departing Adelaide you’ll hop on a Sealink ferry over to the island, checking out all of the area’s attractions and activities including sandboarding and a visit to a koala sanctuary.

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The Whitsundays queensland

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Off the rails To see Queensland a bit differently and still stick to your budget, undo your backpack straps and jump aboard a train heading north. We sent a writer packing to the Whitsundays where the sailing adventure of a lifetime awaited Words peta burton

What excites a bunch of budget-savvy, bus-loving backpackers to hit the tracks on their east coast adventure? Queensland Rail (QR) has a pretty impressive answer having seen a 200 per cent jump in numbers in the last year thanks to its backpacker passes and fares. No wonder, there are trips for $50. So, with some spare time and change we caught QR’s Cairns Tilt Train and The Sunlander to see what’s inside, where they go and what you can do when you arrive at a popular spot like Proserpine; a well-known Whitsundays pit stop where you can take a former America’s Cup yacht for a spin.

To the Far North

There’s no doubt the rail trail is a cheap, convenient and comfortable way to access QR’s 5,000 kilometres of track with a bunch of hop on and off options at all the tourism hot spots from the Gold Coast, Fraser Coast, the Whitsundays, Townsville, Cairns and the outback. That means you see and save at the same time. For 44 years Chris Jones has worked with QR trains and “every time you blink there’s another picture frame right there, you never know what’s next”. QR’s Tilt and Sunlander trains can get you to some pretty

All aboard the Sunlander

Coming back up to Cairns from Brisbane it’s actually great to hear a little more clickety clack of the tracks when you’re on board The Sunlander; one of Australia’s 10 most unique train trips voted by National Geographic and the Society of International Train Traveller’s top 25 must-do train journeys in the world. She’s an earlier model than the Tilt and won’t be around for much longer with a new look rolling out in 2014. So don’t miss this train. QR’s Sunlander has very comfy accommodation for all backpacker budgets from single seating to single bunks or sharing a double or even triple cabin to unravel your bones overnight. There’s always the option of lapping up some luxury though in Queenslander Class but a cosy, reclining seat in air-conditioning is superb with a good book and a good look at the view.

What d’ya reckon? We’re always after a new perspective on backpacker travelling and alternatives that guarantee value for money.

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Clockwise: learning the ropes; cooling off with Agwa; staying at Base hideaway

awesome places and one is the famous Whitsundays. So, here’s what do when you jump off at Proserpine: sail.

The Whitsundays on board the Southern Cross

Photos: Tourism Queensland, Peta Burton, Justin Steinlauf

Honestly, could my train stop have been anymore brilliant? I’m trying to comprehend what’s unfolding before my eyes as I waltz down the gangway at Abel Point Marina, Airlie Beach (a quick shuttle bus from Proserpine Station). Forget about pinching me, someone grab a four by two and make sure I’m awake. A 9am sun is blasting out a blue sky and Southern Cross, a stunning 20-metre former America’s Cup challenger, is poised patiently on a mill pond of water. Six-year seasoned and contagiously-spirited Skipper Warren Pearce (Waz) plants a handshake my way while on board 14 passengers from all around the world wait to be whisked away to The Whitsundays for two days; home of Heart Reef, the world’s number one beach, Whitehaven, and where humpback whales give birth. Some call it an adventure, others a must-do but most, “paradise”. It is. And these numbers say it all; 74 islands in the middle the Great Barrier Reef, 66 still in their natural state and these eight, Daydream, Long, Lindeman, Hook, Hayman, Hamilton, Brampton and South Moll, inhabited. As we head through Whitsundays Passage there are islands in all directions and the 360 degree view is hard for some on board to believe. Patrick, 32, and Mercedes, 27, are from Heidelberg, Germany, and have four days in the Whitsundays. ”This place is a postcard”. They also quit their jobs to come to Australia. “When we go back, we’re going to take some of that Aussie culture with us and become 48

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“

We’re going to take some of that Aussie culture with us and become more easygoing

”

more easygoing” grins a sun-kissed Mercedes. She’s right. It’s insanely euphoric out here and these protected waters offer, as Explore Whitsundays Al Grundy puts it, “possibly the best sailing in the world”. The wind picks up gently and deckhand Tina Wieczorek from Dortmund, Germany, who has “the best job in the world” she’s been told and Renske De Meijer from Maastright, Holland, who is actually on her Learn to Earn course, encourage a few new crew to help hoist the sails. And we’re off. Paul 30, Chris, 26 and another Chris, 30 from the UK who have all “been planning a sailing trip for a while” admit they’re fans of Aussie bikini fashion. “It’s better than in Blackpool” they reckon. On that note, skipper Waz drops anchor at Langford Island between Hayman and Hook. Delightful timing as we’re parked in water I can see through in front of an island I can almost touch and a sand

Cairns

Great Barrier Reef Townsville Prosperine

Airlie Beach (Whitsundays) Mackay Yeppoon Rockhampton

Gladstone Bundaberg Maryborough

Hervey Bay Fraser Island

BRISBANE

Terms and conditions: * To receive the discount international backpackers must hold a current passport with an international address. This fare type excludes domestic backpackers. # Receive up to 40% discount on economy seat adult rail fares. For more information or to book your Backpacker Rail Fares, visit queenslandrailtravel@qr.com.au or call 1800 872 467. Valid for travel until 31 March 2014. Queensland Rail Limited ABN 71 132 181 09 Travel Agent Lic. No. QLD 327 4957 QR3789.23_DL_0912.

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cay I can’t wait to run around on screaming “Wilson!” (It’s a Tom Hanks thing). And, while salivating over the scenery a scrumptious lunch feast of quiche, salad, fresh bread and drinks is ready. Then it’s bon voyage Southern Cross and hello Hammer.

Questions’S SKIPPERS HAVE BEEN ASKED ON BOARD

The Whitsundays on board the Hammer Another old salt who looks good in all shades of sun protection is Mick Ekhert who has spent 13 years sailing and seen about 39,000 happy passengers over the years. Micko is the skipper of Hammer, another sexy, 75-ft pocket, ex-racing yacht with 22 people on board who are almost in a state of Zen they’re so chilled out. But that’s what 48 hours with Whitehaven, Hook and Hayman will do for your soul and your holiday expectations. “Backpackers want value for money, what every traveller is looking for on a budget,” says skipper Mick. And you get it. In fact, the sailing, snorkelling, scuba diving (for certified and beginners divers), accommodation, all meals, “seeing dolphins, turtles, sting rays and manta rays every time we go plus sunrises, sunsets and stargazing where we turn the lights off and watch the universe” is all included in a two or three day sail tour. You just need to clean your plate, wash out the sand from your stinger suit and decide what sunscreen to wear. The crew also encourage you to do as little or as much as you like on board. “Some want to enjoy a quiet moment on the spit while others want to know all about the boat and how it works”. A couple eagerly take the helm under

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Q Is there water on the other side of that island?

No. It’s the edge of the world.

Q When the tide comes up how far up the boat does

it reach? The boat floats. Is the little boat (the tender) going the same place Q we are? OMG. There’s a boat following us! Q When does the air run out of my snorkel? When you breathe out. Q Did you learn to sail on a boat? No, probably not.

the watchful eyes of Micko and his two-man crew which include local deckhand, trainee skipper and “glorified chamois technician,” as he puts it, Brendan Effeney, 21, and Fergus O’Neill, who’s 19 from Kent, UK, and recently cruised through a Pro Sail course. “I love doing everything, the cooking, cleaning, working on deck and have met 1500-odd people in the last five months. I miss my own bed though but I’m a sailor at heart,” chuckles Fergus. Before sundown it’s time for one last chance to look good in a lycra (stinger suit protection) so Fergus takes a few snorkellers out in the rubber duck (the tender) for a dip around Langford and I’m smitten by a sight I’ve never seen before in one camera frame; yacht, island, sand cay, a transparent sea, blue sky and way too many teeth grinning back at me. We haul Nora, 20 and Eric, 23 from Kassel, Germany, back on board as well both gobsmacked after seeing their first turtle. “It was big and a metre away from us!” they scream. Their awe is truly captivating but come 2.30pm it’s time to find a pair of land legs again. The deck is covered in bronzed, carefree expressions for the cruise home so I join in, lie back and snap the clouds, mast and sail smiling about how 23-year old Nathan from Foster, UK, describes this very moment. “It’s top draw”. ❚ The writer travelled on the Sunlander train from Brisbane to Cairns (from $162pp). See queenslandrailtravel.com.au. Explore Whitsundays do 3 day/2 night tours on board the Southern Cross from $509pp. See soxsail.com.au

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Oh the places you’ll go and the people you’ll meet

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TRAVELWEEKENDER

Devil's country This is Hobart in 48 hours Words Alex harmon

DAY 1: Hobart is Australia’s second-oldest capital city, after Sydney, and you can still see the history in the old buildings, docks and cobbled lanes. But funnily enough, Hobart is also one of the most progressive cities in Australia. Check out their edgy festivals, world-class restaurants and, of course, their controversial new museum. Hobart certainly isn’t the sleepy seaside town the other states would have you believe. 9:00: Get a bird’s eye view of Hobart by driving to the summit of Mt Wellington which peaks at 1270m. In winter, it is cloaked in snow and even in summer it can be chilly up the top. What better way to warm up than by cruising down on a mountain bike with Mt Wellington Descent (mtwellingtondescent.com.au)? The three-hour guided tour includes off-road sections for the adventurous. You’ll cycle past the historic Female Factory and through South Hobart and Battery Point. 12:00: The tour conveniently wraps up in Salamanca Place where you’ll be spoiled for lunch choices. The Ball and Chain Grill (ballandchain.com.au) salutes Hobart’s convict past and boast the only real charcoal grill in Tassie. Try some of the region’s steaks or seafood cooked in a traditional method using only charcoal – no gas or electricity. 14:00: With a stomach full of food, make you way down to the harbour to catch the private Mona ferry. The Museum of Old and New Art (mona.net.au) is the brainchild of Hobart-born David Walsh, an eccentric self-made millionaire. It’s a weird and wonderful place, where ancient Egyptian

mummies are placed next to blown-up Lamborghinis and there is a whole room dedicated to making excrement – hold your nose for that one. It’s known as the ‘adult Disneyland’ – once you’ve visited you’ll know why. 18:00: Catch the ferry back to Hobart and find yourself a cosy bar. You’re going to need it after Mona. The Lark Distillery (larkdistillery.com.au) is a cute little bar that makes its own single-malt whiskey, vodka and gin. Try their pepperberry gin martinis while you listen to the live band – usually an Irish folk group – for a rocking good time. 20:00: Now that you are good and relaxed, it’s time to do what Hobartians do so well – eat. Back in Salamanca Place, head to Cargo Bar Pizza Lounge for Hobart’s best pizza. Choose from an array of flavours, such as baby abalone pizza with croutons or spicy octopus. Make sure you finish up with a chocolate truffle pear pizza. Man, those Tasmanians know their flavours. Kick on here with some drinks and meet the locals who congregate on the outside tables. 23:00: Check into your accommodation for the night, Central City Backpackers (centralcityhobart.com). As the name suggests, it’s located in the heart of Hobart on Collins Street. Sleep well – a big day awaits. DAY 2: 9:00: Rise and shine, you’re heading to the shores of Marieville Esplanade to get kitted up for your next adventure: kayaking Hobart’s Derwent River. Hobart Paddle (freycinetadventures.com.au) will take you on a relaxed, two-hour tour where you’ll explore Hobart’s docklands,

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Get your kayak on with Hobart Paddle

learn about the history and also taste some of the best fish and chips in town – all from the comfort of your kayak. 12:00: You rode past it yesterday but this time make sure you step into Cascade Brewery (cascadebreweryco.com. au). It’s the country’s oldest operating brewery and they offer two-hour tours every day which include tastings and a history of the golden ale. 12:00: If you want to live like Tom Cruise for a day (before he got weird) treat yourself by heading to Top Gun Australia (topgunaustralia.com) and fly with a militarytrained fighter pilot. You’ll do loops, rolls, flips, flops, vertical climbs and feel the “speed rush” at 700 kph. 14:00: Come back to earth and make your way south towards Bruny Island. It’s only an hour outside Hobart, making it the perfect destination for a day trip. With Bruny Island Eco Tours (brunycruises.com.au) you can take a three hour wilderness cruise exploring the most interesting and breathtaking parts of the coastline. Some of the natives you'll meet include: fur seals, killer whales, bottlenose dolphins, white sharks, and little penguins. 18:00: Lift the mood once you get back to Hobart with some live music and food at Republic Bar and Cafe (republicbar.com) situated in the North Hobart hub. There is live music on every night of the week, anything from jazz to indie rock. Plus inexpensive and tasty meals and a log fire to warm your weary feet. Congratulations – you've done a weekend in Hobart in style.

Try one, or try them all

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TRAVELWEEKENDER Deep in the caverns of the bizarro Disneyland

mona by lisa robinson Salamanca Markets on a Saturday morning are buzzing

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DAY 1: 00:00 Xxxxxx Xxxxx Xxxxxx 00:00 Xxxxxx Xxxxx Xxxxxx 00:00 Xxxxxx Xxxxx Xxxxxx 00:00 Xxxxxx Xxxxx Xxxxxx 00:00 Xxxxxx Xxxxx Xxxxxx 00:00 Xxxxxx Xxxxx Xxxxxx DAY 2: 00:00 Xxxxxx Xxxxx Xxxxxx 00:00 Xxxxxx Xxxxx Xxxxxx 00:00 Xxxxxx Part shed, part Xxxxx Xxxxxx 00:00 Xxxxxx Xxxxx Xxxxxx distillery. All good 00:00 Xxxxxx Xxxxx Xxxxxx 00:00 Xxxxxx Xxxxx Xxxxxx

The Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) is Australia’s largest private museum. It’s a must-see while in Hobart, Tasmania but be prepared to step outside your comfort zone because this place is far from ordinary, here’s why: The Building: The guys at MONA don’t want you to feel like you’re stepping into a museum, they want you to feel at home. The main part of the MONA is based around two heritage-listed houses that were designed in the 1950s by one of Australia’s leading architects – Roy Grounds. The outside boasts roof gardens, a tennis court and stunning views of the River Derwent. But what catches my eye is the car park signage – the disability parking spots are reserved for “GOD” and “GOD’S MISTRESS”. Undeterred, I move through the entrance and am surprised to find that God’s entire house is underground. It’s carved into the sandstone rock face, a stunning living wall with water trickling down the sides. I make my way down the 14-metre spiral staircase to the bottom level called The Void. It’s here that I find a bar! My advice: stop for a drink – you’ll need it.

The Exhibition: ‘Monanism’ is the permanent collection – a mixture of old and new that sees me smiling one minute and mouth-agape in shock the next. On display is anything from traditional oil paintings to pornography to 19th Century Tongan barkcloths. I wander through Egyptian artefacts from 600 BCE, past Sidney Nolan’s Snake and then stumble upon a poo-machine that actually feeds and defecates. There’s an inflated cartoon-like Porsche Carrera on one floor and the cast of a dead horse slung over a hanging rope on another. The O: There are no signs at MONA. Instead of being told what to think as I view each artwork I’m given an iPhone that contains the O Tour, providing as much or as little information as I want. There’s a summary, an ‘art wank’ section with more information and audio interviews with the artists. The sweetest part is being able to save my entire O Tour and relive it at home, showing friends a teaser of what to expect. MONA isn’t just a museum. It has a microbrewery, a winery, a multi-award winning restaurant, and boutique accommodation. Whatever your poison, you’ll find it here. See: mona.net.au

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Ghost Tour, Port Arthur

TAS0115

Come meet some of our 200 year old locals - they can’t wait to meet you. Tasmania’s south not only opens you to some shocking history, from Hobart’s Battery Point to the famed Port Arthur, it also offers some of the world’s most eclectic arts, culture and culinary delights, amidst winding trails of handmade trinkets that’ll challenge your curiosity at every turn. Hobart from $135* per person twin share. Stay 3 nights and pay for 2 at the 3.5-star Rydges Hobart in a Manor Room. Call Flight Centre on 131 600 to book.

DISCOVERTASMANIA.COM

*Conditions apply. Valid for travel 1 April - 31 August 2013.

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5/04/13 10:35 AM

Tokyo japan

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Sensory indulgence Unless you’re dead, the bright lights, strange food and fancy toilets of Tokyo will keep you amused and send your senses into overdrive Words andrew westbrook

First things first, forget about London, Paris best of all, Tokyo is not a city where you tick or New York. If you’re craving an all-out off a list of must-sees (and hefty entrance When to go: Tokyo is great attack on your senses, there’s one city above fees), but a place to wander around, gawp in at any time of year, but bear in all others that keeps the blows coming, 24/7, mind that summer (June to August) awe and generally succumb to the jetlagleaving you dazed, dazzled and desperate for is busiest. June to July can be very infused confusion. So here’s our guide to more; that’s Tokyo. Put simply, the Japanese making the most of the madness. wet while August is incredibly capital is as exciting, surreal and downright hot. Arguably best are the cooler Sliding doors mental as it gets. autumn months (September to I’m at the end of my week in the world’s November) Sure, there’s no shortage of the usual youbiggest metropolitan area, thanks to an getting around: The could-be-anywhere-in-the-world hostels, extended stop-off between Europe and city has an excellent and easybut it’s worth throwing yourself in at the Australia, and I’m still not entirely sure what’s to-use subway system. A one-day deep end, paying a little more (at least for a hit me. I’ve not taken any drugs, and barely ticket costs AUD$7. From Narita night or two) and heading to a ryokan, one touched a drop of alcohol, but feel like I’ve International Airport, the 60km of the traditional inns which travellers have entered an extended state of hallucinogenic train journey into Tokyo costs about for centuries been using to rest their weary glee, my visions flitting from computer game AUD$30 heads across Japan. Prepare for sliding paper graphics to samurai movie traditions. Currency: AUD$1 = 98.1 doors, futons on the floor, ditching shoes for That’s not to say, however, that Tokyo Japanese Yen (JPY) slippers and old-style Japanese breakfasts doesn’t do the usual city things well. Indeed, stay: Dorm beds at Anne Hostel served on tiny tables in your room. Be the capital, which, until as recently as 1867 Tokyo (j-hostel.com) cost from warned though, if you’re heading to the was known by its original fishing village AUD$26.50 a night, including communal baths in your Japanese robe (like name, Edo, has a habit of finishing at the top breakfast. A good option for a the obliging tourist you are), try and avoid of lists. For example, which city has the most traditional ryokan is Homeikan the large group of pissed-up local teenagers Michelin-starred restaurants in the world (homeikan.com), where a twin also staying there – because they will laugh (with double as many as second placed Paris)? room, including breakfast, costs at you, very loudly. While pointing (trust me). Tokyo. Which city is home to more Fortune AUD$110. Looney tuna 500 companies than anywhere else? Tokyo. See: gotokyo.org And where have Guardian readers voted as Okay, so I said that Tokyo isn’t a city for ticking off sites. Well, that’s true, but it’s always handy to the best city in the world to visit, three years running? That’ll have a few focal points to keep an eye on so that you don’t be Tokyo. The lists go on. spend your entire time getting lost. As it happens, jetlag Of course there’s one other league that Tokyo is famous, makes the decision for me. Finding myself with predawn or infamous, for regularly topping, and that’s the one hours to fill, I make my way to the Tsukiji Fish Market, the ranking the world’s most expensive cities. And it’s true, world’s biggest and busiest market of its kind, where over prices are high. But don’t be put off – it’s not as bad as you 2,000 tonnes of seafood are sold every day. It’s supposed to might fear, especially if you’ve been coping with Sydney or be moving to a new site in 2014, with the city authorities Melbourne prices. Most of the costs that seem excessive by gagging to cash in on the vast area of inner-city real estate, international standards tend to hit the locals, for example so I’m keen to catch it before it heads out of town. Arriving utility bills and cars. Travellers, by comparison, don’t fare too at 4am, I’m in time to sign up for the daily tuna auctions, badly, thanks to plenty of not extortionate options when which kick off just after 5am, with viewing access limited to it comes to food, accommodation and getting around. Plus

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The weird and wonderful Japanese cuisine

just 120 tourists a day. The auction itself is an eye-opening experience, especially considering the sleep-deprived, frazzled look of those around me. Stood in a huge warehouse, before us lie row after row of giant blue fin tunas, frozen in formation like an armoury of torpedoes being prepared for war. The bells clang and the auctioneer’s garbled shouting gets underway, interrupted now and then by the nod and a wink of a buyer, followed by the quick exchange of tens of thousands of dollars, before the process is repeated again for the next batch of prized sashimi-in-waiting. After an hour or so of the selling, I wander off into the giant maze of 1,000-plus stalls that make up the market, every now and then jumping sideways to avoid a high-speed forklift, or stopping, boggle-eyed, for a closer look at some of the sea monsters on display. Eventually, I find my way to the restaurant area, eager to sample some of the goods for breakfast. Needless to say, I doubt I’ll ever enjoy better sushi. High in the sky Scrambling into daylight, accompanied by a new aroma 58

unlikely to gain me many friends, I make my way back to the subway, aware that my next jetlag slump is threatening to descend at any moment. Luckily, I arrive at the Tokyo Skytree before the daze takes control. Standing 634m high, the Skytree is the world’s tallest broadcasting tower and boasts an observation deck looking out over the Kanto area towards Mt Fuji in the distance. It’s the perfect place to appreciate the scale of the region and its 35 million people, while being confident that none of them are likely to interrupt my muchneeded power-nap. Feeling suitably refreshed I head back onto the streets to do what I seem to spend the best part of my week doing – wandering aimlessly amongst Tokyo’s central suburbs such as Ginza, Shibuya and Omotesando. The city feels on a scale unlike any other metropolis. In fact, there is no obvious centre. Instead there are numerous districts, all with a maze of streets packed with design-obsessed urbanites surrounded by skyscrapers rising up in a flurry of neon and massive TV screens. There’s a surprising lack of old buildings, surprising that is until you realise the city has been almost totally rebuilt

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twice in the last century – once after a massive earthquake in 1923, and then after extensive World War II bombing in 1945. Luckily, the earthquake and nuclear crisis suffered by Japan in 2011 left the capital largely unscathed.

Even when it rains, Tokyo still shines bright

Alien encounters Exiting each subway station can feel like entering an entirely different world and, to my western eyes at least, everything is alien. From the fashions on the street to the toys in the shops and even the Coke cans, the smallest things are subtly different and undeniably Japanese. It’s a place where the everyday mundanities, from crossing the road to going to the toilet (no, really), become bizarre, warped experiences. Indeed, Tokyo’s tourist board claims the Shibuya intersection is the world’s most famous road crossing, which seems like one desperately lame boast until you’ve plodded across it yourself. There you wait, amongst the many hundreds of pedestrians at the giant crossroads, wondering if the lights will ever change, when suddenly the carnage descends and the army charges at you from every side, all while cartoons play out on the side of buildings and music and lights assault you from each direction. It’s like Times Square on steroids. And the toilets? Well, clearly aware that most locals are deeply uncomfortable with sharing the audible results of their straining and splashing, many of Tokyo’s public toilets come complete with a hi-tech interactive menu, letting you mask your deadly deeds with all manner of sounds, smells and sprays. Neon nights

From cos-play to traditional geisha outfits, you’ll see it all in the streets of Tokyo

Photos: Getty, Thinkstock, Andrew Westbrook

After dark I regularly find myself exploring the streets of precincts like Shinjuku. Tokyo comes alive at night like no other city, with its love for neon transforming whole areas into massive corridors of light reaching all the way up the skyscrapers. It feels like I’m in a cheery Blade Runner. Every now and then I brace myself and take on the challenge of eating, at which I have wildly varying results when brave enough to branch out from sushi and tempura. The one constant seems to be that I must detach my eyes and brain from my taste buds. You see, despite being a huge fan of Japanese food, once in Japan, it’s not all that simple. Indeed, with written or spoken English a rarity in Tokyo, ordering is often a case of blindly selecting something and crossing your fingers. What I’m brought, more often than not, is a selection of slimy morsels I can’t quite put a name to. The house special they might be, but that doesn’t help with the gagging reflex. By chance my final day in the city is a Sunday, meaning I get to catch a particular Tokyo oddity I’ve been eager to see – the Harajuku cos-play kids. After all, if there’s one thing Tokyo is obsessed with above all else, it’s style, and, like most things in Japan, there’s always someone willing to take it to quite an unexpected extreme. In this case it’s the world’s oddest teenagers. Every Sunday they get dressed up in their cos-play outfits, whether it’s a corpse bride gown or a dinosaur suit and head to Harajuku where they try to outdo each other and pose for tourists. It has to be seen to be believed and is Tokyo at it’s most surreal. Which is why, heading to the airport after a week of sensory overload exploring Japan’s capital, I still feel as disorientated as the moment I arrived. ❚

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Bottom Bits Bus Tours around Tasmania 1800 777 103, bottombits.com.au Bunyip Tours Tours around Victoria 1300 286 947, bunyiptours.com Cool Dingos Fraser Island Tours 1800 072 555, cooldingotour.com Explore Whitsundays Whitsundays packages 1800 675 790, explorewhitsundays.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

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rental firms Apollo Motorhomes 1800 777 779, apollocamper.com

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transport co Greyhound Australia Buses around Australia. 13 20 30, greyhound.com.au Jetstar Airline. 131 538,

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Tiger Airways Airline. 03 9999 2888, tigerairways.com

Western Xposure WA tours 08 9414 8423, westernxposure.com.au

Travellers Auto Barn 1800 674 374, travellers-autobarn.com.au

Wilderness 4WD Adventures Top end tours 1800 808 288, wildernessadventures.com.au

Wicked Campers 1800 246 869, wickercampers.com

Redline Coaches For getting around Tasmania. 03 6336 1446, redlinecoaches.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

Awesome Adventures Oz Whitsundays packages 1800 293 7663, awesomeoz.com

Kangaroo Island Wildlife Adventures South Australia 1800 786 386, surfandsun.com.au

Topdeck Tours covering all of Oz 1300 886 332, topdeck.travel

Virgin Australia Airline. 13 67 89, virginaustralia.com

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Wollombi Nestled at the foot of the Hunter Valley, around 130km north of Sydney, is the historic Wollombi, which has been the hidden secret of motorcyclists for decades. It’s an ideal location to stay no matter what your interests are. Within spitting distance of the town centre is a cornucopia of wineries. If wine tastings aren’t your thing, there are a multitude of eateries ranging from simple cafes (Café Wollombi) to fine dining (Panino Café). If you just want to kick back and have a quiet beer, then the Wollombi Tavern will have you covered… Don’t forget to ask to try Dr Jurd’s Jungle Juice. The Wollombi Tavern also hosts Anzac day, serving rum-spiked-coffee for those who come after the dawn service, and offers a lively Two-Up circle. Travel a little further out of town and you can check out the Hunter Valley Gardens which offers more than just wine but a good time for the entire family with aqua golf, putt-putt, expansive gardens and dining areas.

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sydney stay Base Sydney 477 Kent St. CBD. 02 9267 7718 stayatbase.com

Avalon Beach Hostel 59 Avalon Pde, Avalon Beach. 02 9918 9709, avalonbeach.com.au

CHECK IN

Bondi Shores Level 1. 283 Bondi Road, Bondi bondishores.com.au

Big Hostel 212 Elizabeth St. CBD. 02 9281 6030 bighostel.com

Bondi YHA 63 Fletcher Street. Tamarama. 02 9365 2088, yha.com.au

Bounce Budget Hotel 28 Chalmers St. CBD. 02 9281 2222 bouncehotel.com.au

Eva’s Backpackers 6-8 Orwell Street Kings Cross 02 9358 2185, evasbackpackers.com.au

Sydney Central YHA 11 Rawson Place. CBD. 02 9218 9000 Sydney Harbour YHA 110 Cumberland Street. The Rocks. 02 9261 1111

World square hostel

640 George St, Sydney CBD. Dorms from $28 Just minutes from Town Hall Station, World Square Hostel offers cheap and clean rooms, an on-site bar and free WIFI.

Sydney CBD

worldsquarehostel.com.au

yha.com.au Westend Backpackers 412 Pitt St. CBD. 1800 013 186 nomadshostels.com

Dlux Hostel 30 Darlinghurst Rd, Kings Cross. 1800 236 213 dluxbudgethotel.com.au

Boomerang Backpackers 141 William Street, Kings Cross. 02 8354 0488, boomerangbackpackers.com

Kangaroo Bak Pak 665 South Dowling St. Surry Hills. 02 9261 1111

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

Lamrock Lodge 19 Lamrock Ave. Bondi. 02 9130 5063, lamrocklodge.com

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

surfsidebackpackers.com.au Glebe Point YHA 262-264 Glebe Point Road. Glebe. 02 9692 8418, yha.com.au

Lochner’s Guesthouse 8 Gowrae Ave. Bondi. 02 9387 2162,

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

Aegean Coogee Lodge 40 Coogee Bay Rd. Coogee. 04 0817 6634, aegeancoogee.com.au

Wake Up! 509 Pitt St, CBD. 02 9288 7888, wakeup.com.au

Coogee Beach House 171 Arden St. Coogee. 02 9665 1162, coogeebeachhouse.com

sydney do

Coogee Beachside 178 Coogee Bay Rd, Coogee. 02 9315 8511, sydneybeachside.com.au Surfside Backpackers 186 Arden Street. Coogee. 02 9315 7888,

Manly Surf School Manly Beach. 02 9977 6977, manlysurfschool.com Maritime Museum Darling Harbour. anmm.gov.au

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NSWLISTINGS My Sydney Detour Unique city tours. mysydneydetour.com

blue mtns

CHECK IN

Blue Mountains YHA 207 Katoomba St, Katoomba. 02 4782 1416, yha.com.au

Oceanworld Manly West Esplanade. oceanworld.com.au

central coast

Powerhouse Museum Darling Harbour. powerhousemuseum.com.au

Newcastle Beach YHA 30 Pacific St, Newcastle. 02 4925 3544, yha.com.au

Skydive the Beach Wollongong. skydivethebeach.com

Terrigal Beach YHA 9 Ocean View Dr, Terrigal. 02 4384 1919, yha.com.au

Sydney Olympic Park Darling Harbour. sydneyolympicpark.nsw.gov.au Sydney Tower and Skytour 100 Market St, CBD. sydneyskytour.com.au

AUSSITEL BACKPACKERS

Sydney Harbour Bridge The Rocks. bridgeclimb.com

312 Harbour Drive, Coffs Harbour. Dorms from $27 Located in the lively jetty this hostel has large communal areas, a heated pool, games area, table tennis and pool table.

Sydney Aquarium Darling Harbour. sydneyaquarium.com.au Sydney Wildlife World Darling Harbour. sydneywildlifeworld.com.au Taronga Zoo Mosman. zoo.nsw.gov.au Waves Surf School wavessurfschool.com.au

Coffs Harbour

aussitel.com

sydneymusic Hordern Pavillion playbillvenues.com Oxford Art Factory oxfordartfactory.com Sydney Opera House sydneyoperahouse.com

The Annandale

annandalehotel.com The Enmore

enmoretheatre.com.au The Metro

metrotheatre.com.au

The Entrance Backpackers 2/56 The Entrance Road, The Entrance, 2261 02 4334 5005 theentrancebackpackers.com Skydive Central Coast Warnervale. skydivethecentralcoast.com.au

BYron bay Backpackers Holiday Village 116 Jonson St 1800 350 388, byronbaybackpackers.com.au Backpackers Inn 29 Shirley St 1800 817 696 backpackersinnbyronbay.com.au

@tnt_downunder Byron Bay Accom 02 6680 8666, byronbayaccom.net The Arts Factory 1 Skinners Shoot Rd. 02 6685 7709, nomadshostels.com Nomads Byron Bay Lawson Lane. 1800 666 237, nomadshostels.com Byron Bay YHA 7 Carlyle St. 1800 678 195 yha.com.au Skydive the Beach Byron Bay Kingsford Smith Park, Ballina 1800 302 005 skydivethebeachbyronbay.com

coffs harb Coffs Harbour YHA 51 Collingwood St. 02 6652 6462, yha.com.au Harbour City Holiday Park 123 Pacific Highway coffsholidaypark.com.au Hoey Moey Backpackers 80 Ocean Pde hoeymoey.com.au Plantation Backpackers 88 Grafton Street plantationhotel.com.au

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brisbane stay 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 Tinbilly Travellers Cnr George and Herschel Sts. 1800 446 646.

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Balmoral House 33 Amelia St, Fortitude Valley vipbackpackers.com Brisbane City YHA 392 Upper Roma St yha.com.au Nomads Prince Consort Backpackers 230 Wickham St princeconsort.com.au Somewhere to Stay Cnr Brighton Rd & Franklin St somewheretostay.com.au The Palace Backpackers Cnr Anne & Edward St backpackbrisbane.com Tin Billy Travellers 462 George St 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 Riverlife Adventure Centre Kayaking & rock climbing. Lower River Terrace, Kangaroo Point. 07 3891 5766, riverlife.com.au Story Bridge Adventure Climb 170 Main St, Kangaroo Point. 1300 254 627, storybridgeadventureclimb.com.au XXXX Ale House Brewery tours. Cnr Black & Paten St, Milton.07 3361 7597, xxxxalehouse.com.au

gold coast

CHECK IN

Aquarius Backpackers 44 Queen St, Surfers Paradise. 1800 22 99 55, aquariusbackpackers.com.au Backpackers in Paradise 40 Peninsula Drive, Surfers Paradise. 1800 268 621, backpackersinparadise.com.au 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 Islander Backpackers Resort 6 Beach Rd, Surfers Paradise. 1800 074 393, islander.com.au Sleeping Inn Surfers 26 Peninsular Dr, Surfers Paradise. 1800 817 832, sleepinginn.com.au Surfers Paradise Backpackers Resort 2837 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers. 1800 282 800, surfersparadisebackpackers.com.au

Blue tongue Backpackers 515 Brunswick St, Fortitude Valley. Beds from $17 Located just outside the centre of ‘the Valley’ is the Blue Tongue Bckpackers, known for its ‘home-away-from-home’ atmosphere. It’s a very cheap and relaxed place to stay.

Fortitude Valley

bluetonguebackpackers.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 Nomads Islander Resort 3128 Surfers Paradise Blvd, nomadsworld.com Surf & Sun Backpackers 3323 Surfers Paradise Blvd surfnsun-goldcoast.com

THE RIDE OF YOUR LIFE!

gc do Dreamworld Theme park. dreamworld.com.au Get Wet Surf School 07 5532 9907 Seaworld

seaworld.com.au

Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World wetnwild.myfun.com.au Warner Bros Movie World movieworld.com.au Zorb 07 5547 6300

sunshine cst Mooloolaba Backpackers 75-77 Brisbane Rd, Mooloolaba. 1800 020 120 mooloolababackpackers.com Nomads Noosa 44 Noosa Dr, Noosa Heads. nomadshostels.com 1800 666 237,

WH IT SU N D AY S 3 DAYS IN ONE... Whitehaven Beach, top snorkel destinations & island bushwalks. P: 07 4946 6848 www.oceanrafting.com.au

CAP E T R IB U LAT IO N Ask about our 2 trip special deal with our sister company OCEAN SAFARI - www.oceansafari.com.au

Great Barrier Reef - Half Day Snorkel Tour

Halse Lodge YHA 2 Halse Lane, Noosa. 1800 242 567, halselodge.com.au

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QLDLISTINGS

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

maroochy Located an hour-and-a-half North of Brisbane is Queensland’s Sunshine Coast and, more specifically, the idyllic Maroochy area. This beachside community boasts all of the normal attributes you would expect from a coastal location, sandy beaches, surf-clubs, and a decent nightlife. The Sunshine Coast has more individual National Parks than any other region in Queensland, which means that Maroochy is blessed with natural beauty. If surfing is not your thing but you still want to be in the water, Aussie Sea Kayak Company has a number different packages available. If you’re in the market to work while you’re travelling, you may be able to secure yourself a fruit-picking job in the surrounding area. Since there are fruit-picking jobs on offer, you can bet your bottom dollar that there is also hostel accommodation available, the cheapest being $14 for a dorm bed at the Suncoast Lodge.

rainbow beach Dingos Backpacker Adventure Resort 20 Spectrum St. 1800 111126, 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 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

Barefoot Lodge Long Island barefootlodge.com.au Colonial Village YHA 820 Boat Harbour Drive, Urangan, Hervey Bay yha.com.au

182 Torquay Rd, Hervey Bay friendlyhostel.com.au Woolshed Backpackers 181 Torquay Road woolshedbackpackers.com.au

bundaberg

Cool Dingo’s Rainbow Beach 20 Spectrum St dingosresort.com

Federal Backpackers 221 Bourbong St. 07 4153 3711 federalbackpackers.com.au

Dropbear Adventures Williams Ave, Fraser Island. QLD +61 487 333 606 dropbearadventures.com

Northside Backpackers 12 Queen St. 07 4154 1166

Frasers On Rainbow Beach 195 Torquay Terrace, Torquay, flashpackersherveybay.com Kingfisher Bay Resort River Heads Road, Fraser Island kingfisherbay.com Koalas Hervey Bay 408 The Esplanade, Hervey Bay koalaadventures.com Fraser Coast Top Tourist Park 21 Denmans Camp Road, Scarness, Hervey Bay frasercoasttouristpark.com.au Fraser Island Backpackers Cathedral Beach, Fraser Island fraserislandco.com.au Fraser’s on Rainbow 18 Spectrum Av, Rainbow Beach frasersonrainbow.com The Friendly Hostel

Bundaberg Bondstore Distillery tours. 07 4131 2999 bundabergrum.com.au

town of 1770 1770 Backpackers 6 Captain Cook Dr. 1800 121 770, the1770backpackers.com 1770 Undersea Adventures 1300 553 889, 1770underseaadventures.com

airlie beach airliebeach.com 259 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 677 119 Airlie Beach YHA 394 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 247 251, yha.com.au 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

townsville Adventurers Resort 79 Palmer St. 1800 211 522, adventurersresort.com Adrenalin Dive. 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 Horseshow Bay. 1800 285 577, bungalowbay.com.au

Hotel Arcadia 7 Marine Parade, Arcadia Bay. 07 4778 5177, magnetic-island.com/arc-rsrt.htm Pleasure Divers 07 4778 5788

mission beach Absolute Backpackers 28 Wongaling Beach Road. 07 4068 8317, absolutebackpackers.com.au Beach Shack 86 Porters Promenade missionbeachshack.com

Scotty’s Beach House 167 Reid Rd. 07 4068 8676, scottysbeachhouse.com.au Jackaroo Hostel Mission Beach Frizelle Rd, Bingil Bay jackaroohostel.com Mission Beach Retreat 49 Porters Promenade missionbeachretreat.com.au

cairns stay Bohemia Central Cairns 100 Sheridan St. 1800 558 589, bohemiacentral.com.au Bohemia Resort Cairns 231 McLeod St. 1800 155 353 bohemiaresort.com.au Calypso Backpackers 5 Digger St.

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QLD’S BEST BACKPACKERS

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ACCOMMODATION IN 2009 & 2010!! bunkbrisbane.com.au 11-21 Gipps Street, Fortitude Valley Postal: PO Box 261, Fortitude Valley Qld 4006 P.1800 682 865 or +61 7 3257 3644

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QLDLISTINGS 1800 815 628, calypsobackpackers.com.au

cape trib

JJâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Backpackers Hostel 11 Charles St. 07 4051 7642, jjsbackpackers.com

Crocodylus Village Lot 5, Buchanan Creek Rd, Cow Bay. 07 4098 9166, crocodyluscapetrib.com

NJoy Backpackers Hostel Harbour 141 Sheridan St. 1800 807 055, njoy.net.au

PKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jungle Village Cnr Avalon & Cape Trib Rd. 1800 232 333, pksjunglevillage.com.au

Nomads Beach House 239 Sheridan St. 1800 229 228, nomadshostels.com Northern Greenhouse 117 Grafton Street. 1800 229 228, northerngreenhouse.com.au

innisfail IInnisfail Budget Backpackers Workerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hostel 125 Edith St. 07 4061 78337 Walkabout Motel & ackpackers 07 4061 2311 walkaboutbackpackers.com.au

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 POBOX 105N Cairns 07 4052 1822, skydivecairns.com.au

atherton Kuranda Rainforest Park 88 Kuranda Heaights Rd, Kuranda. 07 4093 7316, kurandarainforestpark.com.au

port douglas Parrotfish Backpackers Resort 37 Warner St, Kuranda. 07 4099 5011, parrotfishlodge.com

gulf savannah

daintree Koala Beach Resort Cape Kimberly Rd. 1800 466 444

MOOLOOLABA Mooloolaba Backpackers VIP 75 Brisbane Road mooloolababackpackers.com

MORETON ISLAND Tangalooma Wild Dolphin Resort tangalooma.com

PORT DOUGLAS

Emu Park Resort 92 Patterson St, Emu Park emusbeachresort.com

Global Port Douglas 38 Macrossan St globalbackpackerscairns.com. au/port-douglas

Rockhampton Backpackers YHA 60 Macfarlane Street, Rockhampton yha.com.au

Parrot Fish Lodge 37 Warner St parrotfishlodge.com Port Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Call YHA 7 Craven Close portocall.com.au

Dolphins Beach House 14 Duke Street, Sunshine Beach dolphinsbeachhouse.com.au

Codge Lodge 63 Rankin St codgelodge.com Crown Hostel 25 Ernest St (07) 4061 2266

Nomads Noosa Backpackers 44 Noosa Dr NOOSA inland nomadsworld.com

Innisfail Budget Backpackers 125 Edith St jobsforbackpackers.com.au

Noosa Backpackers Resort 9-13 William St noosabackpackers.com

NOOSA inland Ride On Mary Budget Bush Retreat imbilkayakandbike.com

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ROCKHAMPTON

Dougies Backpackers Resort 111 Davidson St dougies.com.au

INNISFAIL

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agnes water 1770 Beachside Backpacker 12 Captain Cook Drive independentbackpackers.com 1770 Southern Cross Backpackers 2694 Round Hill Rd 1770southerncross.com

STRADBROKE is Manta Lodge & Scuba Centre 1 Eastcoast Rd mantalodge.com.au

SUNSHINE COAST Cotton Tree Beachouse 15 the Esplanade cottontreebackpackers.com

TOWNSVILLE Adventurers Backpackers 79 Palmer St adventurersresort.com Civic Guest House Backpackers Hostel 262 Walker St civicguesthousetownsville. com.au Foreign Exchange Accommodation - Beachside 19 Eyre St, North Ward foreignx.com.au

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

&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

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airlie beach The gateway to the Whitsundayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Airlie Beach is a one-stop shop for all things holiday. Whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re after a luxurious retreat, or a budget party town, Airlie caters to all flavours. Jump onto any one of the numerous boats departing daily for day trips to the Great Barrier Reef and overnight adventures to one of the Whitsundayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s many tranquil islands. If snorkelling isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t your thing, join the throng of chilled out sunbakers around the townâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s central man-made lagoon that spans the length of the esplanade. The fun doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t set with the sun, with the esplanade coming to life after dark as tanned bodies pack the party stripsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; wine bars, backpackers and pubs, guaranteeing a party every night of the week.

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Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Gold Coast

Famous for fun

AdventureGoldCoast.com 04_719p 60-78 sections.indd 67

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3/4/13 9:39:22 PM

VICLISTINGS

@tnt_downunder

The Spencer Everything you want in a hostel!

$22 $ melbourne stay

Free Pick ups Free Parking Cable TV VIP Discounts Great bar Laundry Tour info Job search

Â&#x2021; Â&#x2021; Â&#x2021; Â&#x2021;

Rooftop garden Modern,fully equipped kitchen Short walk from Southern Cross station Female dorms, mixed dorms, twins, doubles, ensuites

Free call: 1800 638 108

All Nations Backpackers Hotel & Bar 2 Spencer St. 1800 222 238, allnations.com.au Base Melbourne 17 Carlisle St, St. Kilda. 1800 242 273, stayatbase.com

Central Melbourne Accommodation 21 Bromham Place, Richmond. 03 9427 9826, centralaccommodation.net

Claremont Guesthouse 189 Toorak Rd, South Yarra hotelclaremont.com City Centre Budget Hotel 22-30 Little Collins St citycentrebudgethotel.com

Elephant Backpackers 250 Flinders St elephantbackpacker.com.au Elizabeth Hostel 490 Elizabeth St elizabethhostel.com.au

Maximum 4 bed dormitories with linen and towel Exford Hotel

475 Spencer Street, Melbourne email: hotelspencer@hotkey.com.au www.spencerbackpackers.com.au Find us on Facebook â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The Spencer Backpackersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; We are a VIP hostel!

199 Russell St.

King St Backpackers 160 King Street

03 9663 2697, (cereal, toast and j FREE all you can eat breakfast kingstreetbackpackers.com.au exfordhotel.com.au Discovery tea and coffee Flinders Stationmeal, Hotel weekly rice andHotel pasta, 167 Franklin St 35 Elizabeth St. 03 9620 5100,

hoteldiscovery.com.au

flindersbackpackers.com.au FREE in room oversized locker with personal Lords Lodge Backpackers 167 Franklin St The Greenhouse Backpacker power point lordslodge.com Level 6, 228 Flinders Lane. 1800 249 207,

International Backpackers 5 greenhousebackpacker.com.au minute walk to city Melbourne 204 Punt Rd, Prahran

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Habitat HQ

mibp.com.au

333 St Kilda Road, bar with big screen Large Melbourne Metro YHA St Kilda. 1800 202 500, 78 Howard St habitathq.com.au (all major sporting events shown) yha.com.au Home at the Mansion

Melbourne Oasis YHA 66 Victoria Parade. 03 9663 at the bar Drink specials 76 Chapman St 4212, homemansion.com.au

yha.com.au

Home Travellers Motel Public on doorstep St Arnaud 32 Carlisle St, transport St Kilda.

Hotel Bakpak Melbourne 167 Franklin St. 1800 645 200, hotelbakpak.com

FREE The Spencer City Central BP in room 475 Spencer St power point spencerbackpackers.com.au

tntdownunder.com

Nomads Melbourne 198 Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;beckett St. 1800 447 762, nomadshostels.com

Book Now 1800 Space Hotel 380 Russell St. 1800 670 611, spacehotel.com.au

oversized l

5 minute walk to city The Nunnery ;OfW[c[ " PSR 116 Nicholson Street, Fitzroy Large big screen bar with nunnery.com.au 4@33 P`SOYTOab eSSYZg [SOZ `WQS (all sporting events major Urban Central 4@33 W\ `]][ ]d 334 City Road, Southbank at the bar ^]eS` ^]W\b urbancentral.com.auDrink specials

4@33 W\P]c\R b` Victoria Hotel Backpackers Public transport on doors # [W\cbS eOZY b] Victoria Hotel, 380 Victoria St Unique value tour packag :O`US PO` eWbV P vichotelbrunswick.com.au OZZ [OX]` a^]`bW\

631 288 urbancentra

>cPZWQ b`O\a^]`b

ST KILDA

The Spencer 475 Spencer St. 1800 638 108, hotelspencer.com

Back of Chapel Backpackers 50 Green St backofchapel.com

Back of Chapel 50 Green St, Windsor nomadshostels.com

Base St Kilda 17 Carlisle St stayatbase.com UC103

UC103

FREE all you can eat brea rice and pas

99 Park St, South Yarra, weekly meal, starnaudguesthouse.com.au

Melbourne Central YHA 562 Flinders St. 03 9621 2523, yha.com.au

Port Campbell is about a three-hour drive Southwest out of Melbourne. Not to be belied by its meagre population, Port Campbell offers pristine natural wonders rather than a bustling and populated cityscape. The Great Ocean Road acts as your own personal tour guide allowing you to explore Port Campbellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bucolic surroundings. While out and about the attractions present themselves in an obvious fashion, none more so than the Twelve Apostles. The Twelve Apostles (eight still standing) are an outcrop of sandstone stacks that have been shaped by the wind and sea over millions of yearsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and can be viewed from Port Campbell National Park. While in town, there is an array of establishments ranging from the simple, modestly priced, Port Campbell Caravan Park (Tent sites $16-18.50) or the Port Campbell YHA Hostel (from $17/night) to the more expensive Southern Ocean Motor Inn (Rooms from $98 for a single). For the more adventurous and cashed-up travellers, there are also helicopter tours on offer but no matter whether youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re up high or shore-side, the views will be spectacular.

Maximum 4 bed dormitor

1800 008 718, hometravellersmotel.com.au

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VICLISTINGS Coffee Palace Backpackers 24 Grey St

coffeepalacebackpackers.com.au Habitat HQ 333 St Kilda Rd, thehabitathq.com.au Oslo Hotel 38 Grey St oslohotel.com.au The Ritz for Backpackers 109 Barkly St stkildabeachhouse.com.au St Kilda Beach House 169B Fitzroy St ritzbackpackers.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, oldmelbournegaol.com.au Official Neighbours Tours 570 Flinders St. 03 9629 5866, neighbourstour.com.au Skydive the Beach Melbourne 1300 798 843 skydivethebeachmelbourne.com Tourism Victoria Backpacking ideas. backpackmelbourne.com Wildlife Tours Australia Specialising in Victorian tours +61 3 9314 2225 wildlifetours.com.au

great ocean rd Anglesea Backpackers 40 Noble St, Anglesea. 03 5263 2664, angleseabackpackers.com.au Eco Beach YHA 5 Pascoe St. 03 5237 7899, yha.com.au

Great Ocean Road Backpackers YHA 10 Erskine Av, Lorne. 03 5289 2508, yha.com.au 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

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

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

gippsland 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

@tnt_downunder 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

mildura Mildura City Backpackers 50 Lemon Avenue milduracitybackpackers.com.au

STRATHMERTON Riviera Backpackers YHA 669 Esplanade yha.com.au

Bloody great deals on the Great Ocean Rd +\YPUN 4H` ^L»YL VɈLYPUN )SVVK` .YLH[ +LHSZ VU [OL .YLH[ 6JLHU 9VHK ;OL 7VY[ *HTWILSS /VZ[LS HUK 6JLHU /V\ZL )HJRWHJRLYZ OH]L [LHTLK \W ^P[O SVJHS [YHKLYZ [V WYV]PKL \UILH[HISL ]HS\L MVY [OVZL [OPUNZ `V\ SV]L HUK ULLK SPRL JOLHW ILLY MVVK HUK M\LS ;V \USVJR [OL IHYNHPUZ HSS `H» ULLK [V KV PZ JVU[HJ[ LP[OLY VM [OL MLH[\YLK OVZ[LSZ HUK TLU[PVU [OPZ HK

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www.portcampbellhostel.com.au

www.oceanhousebackpackers.com

03 5598 6305 e. reception@portcampbellhostel.com.au

0408 554 864 e. info@stayinportcampbell.com

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adelaide stay Adelaide Backpackers Inn 112 Carrington St. 1800 24 77 25, adpi.com.au

fleurieu penin

CHECK IN

Port Elliot Beach House YHA 13 The Strand, Port Elliot. 08 8554 2785 yha.com.au

Adelaide Central YHA 135 Waymouth St. 08 8414 3010, yha.com.au

eyre peninsula Coodlie Park Farmstay Flinders Highway, Port Kenny. 08 8687 0411 coodliepark.com

Adelaide Travellers Inn 220 Hutt St. 08 8224 0753, adelaidebackpackers.com.au Annie’s Place 239 Franklin St. 1800 818 011, anniesplace.com.au

Baird Bay Ocean Eco Experience Sea lion and dolphin swims. 08 8626 5017 bairdbay.com

Backpack Oz 144 Wakefield St. 1800 633 307, backpackoz.com.au

The guest house 134 Wakefield St, Adelaide. Beds from $26 The Guest House is the sister hostel of Backpack Oz, which is located across the road. Free breakfast (also a free BBQ on Wednesday nights provided at Backpack Oz), clean facilities, and in a good location.

Blue Galah Backpackers Lvl 1, 52-62, King William St. 08) 8231 9295, bluegalah.com.au

Adelaide

backpackoz.com.au/theguesthouse/

Glenelg Beach Hostel 5-7 Moseley St. Glenelg. 1800 359 181, glenelgbeachhostel.com.au

Adelaide Zoo Frome Rd. 08 8267 3255, zoossa.com.au

Hostel 109 109 Carrington St. 1800 099 318, hostel109.com

Haigh’s Chocolates Factory tours. 153 Greenhill Rd, Parkside 1800 819 757, haighschocolates.com.au

My Place 257 Waymouth St. 1800 221 529, adelaidehostel.com.au Shakespeare Hostel 123 Waymouth St. 1800 556 889, shakeys.com.au

Temptation Sailing Dolphin swimming, Glenelg. 04 1281 1838 dolphinboat.com.au

adelaide do Adelaide Oval Home to the Donald Bradman collection. War Memorial Drive. 08 8300 3800 cricketsa.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

66 Knofel Drive, Vivonne Bay 13 13 01 seaink.com.au

riverland

Radeka Down Under 1 Oliver St. 1800 633 891, radekadownunder.com.au

Berri Backpackers Sturt Highway, Berri. 08 8582 3144, berribackpackers.com.au

Riba’s Underground 1811 William Creek Rd. 08 8672 5614, camp-underground.com.au

Harvest Trail Lodge Loxton. 08 8584 5646, harvesttrail.com.au

kangaroo is Kangaroo Island YHA 33 Middle Terrace, Penneshaw. 08 8553 1344 yha.com.au Vivonne Bay Lodge

Nomads on Murray Sturt Highway, Kingston on Murray. 1800 665 166, nomadsworld.com Riverland Backpackers Labour Hire Services 08 8583 0211

Calypso Star Charters Great white shark cage diving. 08 8682 3939, sharkcagediving.com.au 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

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Photo: SATC

Adelaide Just because the Rugby Sevens is no longer a feature of Adelaide, it does not mean that the party vibe has gone too. Adelaide, once affectionately known as ‘the City of Churches’, is now more commonly known as ‘Radelaide’ because people have a tendency to cut-loose while in town (however brief that may be). The Majestic Roof Garden Hotel can supply those with the necessary funds a very pleasant vista of the surrounding area. For the budget conscious, the Cargo Club, promises a good time at the right price. For those out on a lash and in need of refuelling, both in the food and booze departments, The Original Pancake Kitchen is open 24 hours a day and has been the saviour of many a weary traveller. Not to be outdone by the city, Adelaide’s surrounding landscape is of note. Named for their lofty heights, the Mt Lofty Ranges offer picturesque escapes that can be traversed either on foot or two-wheeled-marvels-of-conveyance.

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WALISTINGS

perth stay Billabong Backpackers Resort 381 Beaufort St. 08 9328 7720, billabongresort.com.au

CHECK IN

Britannia on William 253 William St, Northbridge. 08 9227 6000, perthbrittania.com

The Witchâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hat 148 Palmerston St. 08 9228 4228, Witchs-hat.com

Emperorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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 Perth City YHA 300 Wellington St. 08 9287 3333, yha.com.au The Old Swan Barracks 6 Francis St.

Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, Northbridge. 08 9228 3755, undergroundbackpackers.com.au

Western Beach Lodge 6 Westborough St, Perth. Dorms from $32 Located walking distance from Scarborough Beach, shops, restaurants and nightlife, is the Western Beach Lodge. Clean, secure and friendly.

Perth

westernbeach.com/

@tnt_downunder Hotel Bambu Backpackers 75 - 77 Aberdeen St, Northbridge bambu.net.au Mountway Holiday Apartments 36 Mount St mountwayapartments.com.au Ocean Beach Backpackers 1 Eric St, Cottesloe woceanbeachbackpackers.com

Backpack City and Surf 41-43 Money St backpacker.com.au

Perth Beach YHA & Indigo Net Cafe 256 West Coast Hwy, Scarbrough indigonet.com.au

Beatty Lodge 235 Vincent St beattylodge.com.au

Planet Inn Backpackers 496 Newcastle St planetinn.com.au

Cheviot Lodge 30 Bulwer St cheviotlodge.com

The Shiralee Hostel 107 Brisbane St, Northbridge planetinn.com.au

Coolibah Lodge 194 Brisbane St coolibahlodge.com.au

Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, shiralee.com.au

Easy Perth Backpackers 4 Francis Street, Northbridge easyperthbackpackers.com.au

Wickham Retreat Backpackers 25-27 Wickham St East Perth (08) 9325 6398

Grand Central Hotel Backpackers 379 Wellington St (08) 9421 1123

YMCA Jewell House 180 Goderich St ymcajewellhouse.com.au

Hay Street Backpackers 266-268 Hay St haystbackpackers.com

1201 East Backpackers 195 Hay St 1201east.com.au

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WINNER BEST HOSTEL IN WA 2007 FINALIST 2008,2009,2010 & 2011

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WALISTINGS perth do Aquarium of Western Australia 91 Southside Drive, Hillarys. 08 9447 7500, aqwa.com.au Kings Park & Botanic Garden bgpa.wa.gov.au

The Rosemount Hotel rosemounthotel.com.au

freo stay Backpackers Inn Freo 11 Pakenham St. 08 9431 7065, backpackersinnfreo.com.au

Perth Mint 310 Hay St. 08 9421 7223, perthmint.com.au

Old Firestation Backpackers 18 Phillimore St. 08 9430 5454, fremantleprison.com.au

Perth Zoo 20 Labouchere Road, South Perth. 08 9474 3551, perthzoo.wa.gov.au

Sundancer Backpackers Resort 80 High St. 08 9336 6080, sundancerbackpackers.com.au

perth music Amplifier amplifiercapitol.com.au Astor liveattheastor.com.au Mojo’s Bar mojosbar.com.au

freo do Fremantle Markets Henderson Street Fremantle 08 9335 2515, fremantlemarkets.com.au Fremantle Prison 1 The Terrace. 08 9336 9200, backpackersinnfreo.com.au

The Bakery nowbaking.com.au

rottnest isl

follow us on Rottnest Island YHA Kingstown Barracks. 08 9372 9780, yha.com.au Rottnest Express 1 Emma Place North Fremantle 1300 Go Rotto rottnestexpress.com.au

margaret river

monkey mia Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort Monkey Mia Road Monkey Mia 1800 653 611, monkeymia.com.au

ningaloo reef

Margaret River Lodge YHA 220 Railway Tce. 08 9757 9532, yha.com.au

Blue Reef Backpackers 3 Truscott Crescent, Exmouth 1800 621 101, aspenparks.com.au

Surfpoint 12 Riedle Drive Prevally 08 9757 1777 surfpoint.com.au

Ningaloo Club Coral Bay 08 9948 5100, ningalooclub.com

albany Albany Bayview Backpackers YHA 49 Duke St 08 9842 3388, yha.com.au Cruize-Inn 122 Middleton Rd. 08 9842 9599, cruizeinn.com

Excape Backpackers YHA Murat Rd, Exmouth. 08 9949 1200, yha.com.au

broome stay Cable Beach Backpackers 12 Sanctuary Road. 1800 655 011, cablebeachbackpackers.com Kimberley Club

@tnt_downunder 62 Fredrick St 08 9192 3233,

kimberleyklub.com

CORAL BAY Ningaloo Club Robinson St

ningalooclub.com

ESPERANCE Blue Waters Lodge YHA 299 Goldfields Rd,

yha.com.au

EXMOUTH Pete’s Exmouth Backpackers YHA Cnr Truscott Cres & Murat Rd

yha.com.au

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

broome The thought of Australia’s West Coast conjures images that of the Wild West: barren, uninhabitable land strewn with tumbleweeds, open-cut mines, and Spinifexed plains. But as our anthem states, “Our land abounds with nature’s gifts” and Broome is chock-full of them. Known as ‘the pearl of the North’, Broome is the home of the South Sea pearls – pearling being Broome’s equivalent of the Gold Rush. Broome is steeped in aboriginal history that gives the local populous a decidedly different vibe from that found anywhere else in Australia. From the white sand of Cable Beach, to the hidden waterfalls in the Kimberly, there are many adventures to be had. The Cable Beach Backpackers offers dorms from $18 and offer free shuttles into town.

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

tanami track The Northern Territory has more to offer travellers than just Uluru. The Tanami Track is a hidden gem, buried in the heartland of Australia’s outback. Those brave enough to venture this far to the centre of the country will be treated to views that cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world. The red desert is broken up with oasis like wetlands, along the Finkle River and provides a welcome change from the arid beauty that normally is abounding. If you follow the track all the way through the Northern Territory and into Western Australia, you will find yourself at the Wolfe Creek Meteorite Crater Reserve, which is the second-largest impact crater of its kind in the world and is truly a sight to be beheld.

darwin stay Banyan View Lodge Darwin 119 Mitchell St. 08 8981 8644, banyanviewlodge.com.au

katherine stay

CHECK IN

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

dingo moon lodge 88 Mitchell Street, Darwin. Beds from $29.50 In a central location, the Dingo Moon Lodge offers free breakfasts, a pool to escape the heat and clean and comfortable rooms with A/C.

Darwin

dingomoonlodge.com/

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

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TASLISTINGS hobart stay Central City Backpackers 138 Collins St. 1800 811 507, centralbackpackers.com.au

launceston do

CHECK IN

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

Hobart Hostel 41 Barrack St, Hobart. Dorms from $23 Very clean and comfortable, a pleasing lounge with a plasma TV & DVD’s, air-conditioning, FREE internet/WIFI.

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 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

hobarthostel.com

launceston Arthouse Backpacker Hostel 20 Lindsay St. 1800 041 135, arthousehostel.com.au

Launceston Backpackers 103 Canning St. 03 6334 2327, launcestonbackpackers.com.au Lloyds Hotel 23 George St. 03 6331 9906, backpackersaccommodation.com.au

Tasman Backpackers 114 Tasman St. 03 6423 2335, tasmanbackpackers.com.au

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

@tnt_downunder

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

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

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

hobart Hobart has a perfect mix of old-world charm, new-school pretension, and captivating natural surroundings. As Tasmania’s capital, Hobart is a buzzing microcosm of Australiana; with a burgeoning art-scene, a lively coffee and bar culture, and repurposed waterfront, Hobart has everything you would expect from any Aussie city. It was also recently voted #7 in Lonely Planet ’s prestigious Top 10 Cities in the World to Visit in 2013. Some would say its controversial museum, the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) helped in some way. But the city’s natural beauty didn’t hurt either. Another beautiful thing about Hobart is that you can escape the city so completely in minutes – with Mount Wellington on the horizon, it serves as constant a reminder of this. There is also a vibrant and, now internationally recognised, whiskey industry, where travellers can participate in cellar door activities and tastings.

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IN THE SPOTLIGHT

NZLISTINGS The Fat Camel (Nomads) 38 Fort St. +64 9307 0181, nomadshostels.com Nomads Auckland 16-20 Fort St. +64 9300 9999, nomadshostels.com Oaklands Lodge (BBH) St. +64 5A Oaklands Rd, Mt Eden. +64 9638 6545, oaklands.co.nz 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 goat island Goat Island Marine Reserve was created almost 40 years ago as New Zealand’s first marine sanctuary and now provides tourists a chance to interact with the local fauna. Due to it’s close proximity to Auckland, just 80 kms north, Goat Island is almost a must do no matter how much time you had originally planned on staying in the area. While there tourists can choose to take a ride on the glass-bottomed boat ($25) or just flop about in the water with a snorkel. If you don’t mind camping or want to stay on for an extra day, try Goat Island Camping ($18 pp). If you do end up staying in the area, why not explore the local township of Leigh, which has its very own Microbrewery.

Base Wellington 21-23 Cambridge Tce. +64 4801 5666 stayatbase.com Downtown Wellington Backpackers (BBH) 1 Bunny St. +64 4473 8482 db@downtownbackpackers.co.nz Lodge in the City (VIP) 152 Taranaki St. +64 4385 8560 lodgeinthecity.co.nz

Nomads Capital 118 Wakefield St. 0508 666 237, nomadscapital.com Rosemere Backpackers (BBH) 6 McDonald Cres. +64 4384 3041, backpackerswellington.co.nz Rowena’s Backpackers (VIP) 115 Brougham St. 0800 80 1414 YHA Wellington City 292 Wakefield St. +64 4801 7280

christchurch Chester Street Backpackers (BBH) 148 Chester St East. +64 3377 1897, chesterst.co.nz Foley Towers (BBH) 208 Kilmore St. +64 3366 9720, backpack.co.nz/foley Jailhouse Accommodation (BBH) 338 Lincoln Rd. 0800 524 546, stay@kiwibasecamp.com The Old Countryhouse (BBH) 437 Gloucester St. +64 3381 5504, oldcountryhousenz.com Tranquil Lodge (BBH) 440 Manchester St. +64 3366 6500,

i F i W Freestels all over

Free 24 hour unlimited high speed WiFi for YHA members and only $5 a day for non-members. Join now. *See yha.co.nz for participating hostels. Offer valid for stays until 30th April 2013.

ho nd at 20 Z eala w e N ow: 191 2 Book n one 1800 24 h p e z e .n Fr yha.co book@ o.nz .c or yha

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NZLISTINGS tranquil-lodge.co.nz Rucksacker Backpacker Hostel (BBH) 70 Bealey Ave. +64 3377 7931, rucksacker.com

queenstown Base Discovery Lodge Queenstown 49 Shotover St. +64 3441 1185, stayatbase.com Bungi Backpackers (VIP, BBH) 15 Sydney St. 0800 728 286, bungibackpackers.co.nz Cardrona Alpine Resort Between Queenstown and Wanaka. +64 3443 7341, cardrona.com Flaming Kiwi Backpackers (BBH) 39 Robins Rd. +64 3442 5494, flamingkiwi@xtra.co.nz Hippo Lodge (BBH) 4 Anderson Hts. +64 3442 5785, hippolodge.co.nz Nomads Queenstown 5-11 Church St. +64 3441 3922, nomadshostels.com

Pinewood Lodge (VIP) 48 Hamilton Rd. 0800 7463 9663, rgrieg@xtra.co.nz Southern Laughter (BBH, VIP) 4 Isle St. 0800 728 448, southernlaughter.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

YHA Queenstown Central 48A Shotover Street. +64 3442 7400, yha.co.nz

Explore More 1800 800 327 dcrentals.com.nz

YHA Queenstown Lakefront 88- 90 Lake Esplanade. +64 3442 8413 yha.co.nz bus tours

Rent-A-Dent 0800 736 823, rentadent.co.nz

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

rental firms Ace Rental Cars 1800 140 026, acerentalcars.com.nz Backpacker Campervan & Car Rentals +800 200 80 801, backpackercampervans.com

Peterpans Adventure Travel TNT-OZ-halfpage-Oct11.pdf 1 6/10/2011 8:36:04 p.m. Bargain Rental Cars 0800 001 27 Shotover St Queenstown. peterpans.com.au 122, bargainrentals.com.nz

Jucy Rentals 0800 399 736, jucy.com.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,

@tnt_downunder

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

The Fat Camel (Nomads) 38 Fort St. +64 9307 0181, nomadshostels.com

Nomads Capital 118 Wakefield St. 0508 666 237, nomadscapital.com

Nomads Auckland 16-20 Fort St. +64 9300 9999, nomadshostels.com Oaklands Lodge (BBH) St. +64 5A Oaklands Rd, Mt Eden. +64 9638 6545, oaklands.co.nz 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

Rosemere Backpackers (BBH) 6 McDonald Cres. +64 4384 3041, backpackerswellington.co.nz Rowena’s Backpackers (VIP) 115 Brougham St. 0800 80 1414 YHA Wellington City 292 Wakefield St. +64 4801 7280

christchurch Chester Street Backpackers (BBH) 148 Chester St East. +64 3377 1897, chesterst.co.nz Foley Towers (BBH)

CMY

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like us on

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ozwork

Handle with care Australia is crying out for nurses and child care workers and you could earn decent wedge without much experience

Travellers may think that because they’re on a working holiday visa, they can’t get a “proper” job. But that’s a myth – you can earn decent wedge without much experience too. Even with bare minimum experience, a childcare worker could be earn upwards of $22/hour, while a nurse working full time can clear over $1,500 per week. There’s such a shortage of qualified health workers in Australia that it’s very much a worker’s market. If you’re yet to drag yourself off the beach and into an agency, there’s a few things worth sorting out, sharpish. Most important is registering. It’s easy to do online. It can cause delays later if you don’t get it sorted straight away. Getting hold of a reference (such as MIMS) is advisable, as is getting your head around Australian drug brand names as soon as you can. Then it’s all about deciding where and what you want to do. “Our nurses typically work hours to suit their travel and

social life,” says JP Nurseforce MD John Moore. Another bonus for travelling nurses is that an Australian labour shortage means there are plenty of sponsorship opportunities for those wanting to extend their stays. Childcare workers are also a sought after Down Under. A recent rise in pay rates means that this worthy job could have you walking out the door with between $21 and $30/ hour, depending on your experience. But experience isn’t essential. If you have worked previously in your local creche, or done some babysitting, then grab some references and you should be in. “In childcare you need loads of patience” says Shaun Michaeil of Child Care Crew. Being flexible and working well with both parents and children are a given and experience is a plus. “Don’t forget that when you get home you will have gained some valuable experience, along with a great opportunity to work alongside locals.”

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ozwork

@tnt_downunder

interview with a Nurse

Hannah Tiernan

What made you decide to work as a nurse in Australia? Nursing is one of those jobs that you can take anywhere in the world to get experience. Australia seemed like as good a place as any to start.

Shrewsbury, UK

How did you land your new job? I found a health professional job vacancy site on the internet by google-ing New South Wales e-recruit and applied for a handful of positions. UK and Irish nurses have a good reputation out here for working hard so it wasn’t too difficult to get a job. And what exactly is it that you do now? I am a nurse in the emergency department of a hospital in Sydney, looking after people with acute problems like heart attacks or being involved in car crashes to more long term problems like homelessness or helping the older generation who cannot cope in their own homes any longer. I come

home with great stories to tell my housemates! How does nursing in Australia compare to back home? It was pretty hard to get used to the different drug names as they use brand names intend of the generic names like we do at home. I asked someone if they wanted paracetamol once and they didn’t know what I was talking about! It is also quite behind the UK in nursing technology and research. How long do you plan to nurse in Australia for? How long can you stay? I plan to be here for a couple of years, I got sponsored pretty much as soon as I started work so I can stay for four years and then try for residency if I want to. Where have you worked so far, and what is your next destination? I have only worked in Australia but I am planning on doing some work for a charity in Africa at the end of next year, then off to America. Want to share you best nursing advice for travellers? Don’t be afraid to ask questions, people understand that we

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Looking for work? do things differently back home. Try and keep your good habits like hand hygiene and infection control. Things aren’t as strict over here which is a nice change but there is proof that clean hands make a big difference. How does the pay compare to your expectations? It’s brilliant! I get more than twice as much as I would do at home and my life-style is great. I can afford to eat out and shop, go on holidays and save a big sum too. Nurses can’t do that in the UK. Any advice for budding nurses to be who are travelling in Australia? It depends how long you want to stay traveling for. If you are thinking more than six months in one place, definitely get sponsored, you get job security, sick leave and annual leave. If you are here for a good time, not a long time, then agency work is where to go, the money is better and you can pick your days off but they send you all over the city to different hospitals and wards. Don’t forget to see Australia too, make sure you get days off together so you can go on mini breaks.

Tired of eating one minute noodles on a goon hangover? Look no further, TNT has jobs just for backpackers - ranging from fruit picking to bar work!

Fruit picking SaLeS HoSpitaLity Law nurSing aduLt ServiceS SkiLLed Labour

tntdownunder.com/jobs

To look for jobs in Australia, head to tntdownunder.com/jobs

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totallytrivial

@tnt_downunder

who to blame

and what they hate about camping Editor

Alex Harmon (Everything tastes like onions)

Staff writer Hugh Radojev (Everything)

richard laycock (The constant need for clean socks)

aussie rules football Whitsundays Quiz Average max temperature in the Q 1.Whitsunday region during January is? a) 20 Degrees b) 45 Degrees c) 30 Degrees d) 35 Degrees

Design & production

Lisa Ferron (Needing to pee at night)

of the following months will Q 2.youWhich experience cyclone season? a) Jan-Mar b) July-Nov c) Apr-May d) Nov-Dec

Business development Tom Wheeler (Tent nightmares)

account manager

Justin Steinlauf (Packing up my tent)

marketing + events executive

georgina pengelly (Being the victim of a prank)

Financial controller Trish Bailey (Mosquitoes)

what we did this week cruised around the whitsundays over the easter break on a yacht. Life’s hard checked out the steaks at the new-look argyle in the rocks. meaty goodness + plenty of places to whet the whistle caught the last of the good weather in port stephens. almost time to baton down the hatches for a Sydney winter

a) 30-32 Degrees b) 20-25 Degrees c)15-20 Degrees d) 20-40 Degrees

Q 4. How many years ago was The Great Barrier Reef formed? a) 6,000-8,000 b) 1 billion c) 10,000 d) 25 Million

sudoku puzzle

5 4

7 9

5 5

a) Hook Island b) Dunk Island c) Lord Howe Island d) Tangalooma Island

Australian reefs? a) Dolphin b) Platypus c) Sting Ray d) Sea Snake

6 9

Which Whitsunday Island can you Q 8.camp on?

“Chuck a sickie”

3 4

b) June d) August

aussie-ism

season in the Whitsundays is Q 7.in Whale which month?

Q 9. Which animal doesn’t live in

Q 5. Which species of marine animals were the first living on the Whitsundays? a) Turtles b) Kanagroos c) Whales d) Crocodiles and Sharks

6.The Great Barrier Reef is? a) The smallest living structure on earth b) A public animal bathing facility c) The largest living structure on the planet d) The largest swimming pool in Australia

a) January c) October

is the average water temp in Q 3.theWhat Whitsunday Reef?

answers: 1. c 2. a 3. b 4.a 5. d 6. c 7. b 8. a 9. b

Intern

Chucking a sickie is a common Aussie term referring to taking a day off work ‘sick’ , when you are completely fine and wishing to chill at home doing nothing. Eg: “I’m chucking a sickie today!”

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