TNT Magazine: Australia

Nov 21-27 2011 Issue 656 tntdownunder.com

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MELBOURNE & BECKHAM EXPERIENCE

TOP O’ THE MORNINGTON Exploring the Victorian peninsula

X TO THE ZEE Xzibit talks positive pimping

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ANDREW WESTBROOK EDITOR editor@tntdownunder.com

EDITOR’S LETTER I don’t know how it’s crept up again, but somehow it’s that time of year already. Christmas decorations are in the shops and Santa-based films are just around the corner. But forget about the hype. What matters is what you’re doing for Xmas and New Year. Luckily, we’ve scoured the country for the best events and stuck them all on p8 for you. Enjoy!

THIS WEEK OZ DIARY

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MUSIC & FILM

16-21

CELEB NEWS

22-23

NEWS

25

SPORT

26

TRAVEL

28-39

COMPETITION

40

LISTINGS VIC

44

LISTINGS NSW

48

LISTINGS QUEENSLAND

49

LISTINGS WA

54

LISTINGS NT

56

LISTINGS SA

57

LISTINGS TASMANIA

57

LISTINGS NEW ZEALAND

58

WORK

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62-65

TRIVIAL PURSUITS

66

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FEATURES COUNTDOWN TO 2012

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Some of the best events and parties not to miss over the festive season

X MARKS THE SPOT

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Chatting to US rapper Xzibit as he marks the end of his hiatus with an Aussie tour

KEEP YOUR HAT ON

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Taking it easy and gatecrashing weddings on Panama’s stunning islands

MORNING GLORY Finding diving, surfing and dolphins just an hour outside Melbourne

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OZDIARY EDITORIAL Editor Andrew Westbrook Staff writer Alex Harmon Intern Leigh Livingstone Contributors Paul Hansford | Vicky Baker

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DESIGN AND PRODUCTION Design and production manager Lisa Ferron SALES Sales manager Tom Wheeler Account manager Justin Steinlauf Sales executive Gareth Maguire MARKETING & EVENTS Associate publisher Denise Jinks Marketing assistants Lea Pahne | Fanny Boutet DISTRIBUTION Lee Sutherland

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THE MAIN EVENT STEREOSONIC [SYDNEY]

There are still tickets left for Sydney’s biggest electronic music festival. Stereosonic’s lineup spans trance, dubstep, house, techno and electronica. With the likes of Armin Van Buuren, Carl Cox, Afrojack, LMFAO, Empire of the Sun, Bloody Beetroots, Benny Benassi, Yousef, Dirty South, Bag Raiders and many more local DJs. Head out to the Sydney Showgrounds for a day of fun in the sun with Armin Van Buuren closing the festival with a two hour set. Head to stereosonic.com.au for tickets and set times. $145

November 26, from 12-11pm

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

SANTA FESTIVAL [SYDNEY]

DOLLY PARTON [MELBOURNE]

LILKAFEST [ADELAIDE]

Think Australia can’t do Xmas? Well, think again. Darling Harbour hosts its annual Santa Festival. Santas on stilts, Santas on jet skis, on buildings, even a Santa parade, plus live music. So put on your red hat and stick out your Santa gut because today the fat man reigns.

Anyone who’s ever worked 9-5 has sung a bit of Dolly Parton under their breath. Now you can sing it live along with the Doll herself. Bigger-than-life makeup, costumes and cosmetic surgery established Dolly as an icon of the 70s, but unlike her peers, she’s still got it in 2012.

This camping and music festival returns to the grounds of Meningie. Renowned for its intimate setting and highly energetic crowds, it boasts a feast of alternative, indie music, including Tim & Jean, Leader Cheetah, The Levitators, Irie Knights, Ride Into the Sun and Kill Girls.

November 26 Darling Harbour darlingharbour.com

Nov 22-23 & Dec 1 Rod Laver Arena ticketek.com.au

November 25-27 Meningie, South Australia lilkafest.com

FREE

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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19/10/11 2:05:12 16/11/11 8:34:36 PM

An armada of revellers always fill Sydney Harbour in time for the big moment

Out with a bang!

Where’s the ice, the endless hype and the rubbish novelty singles?

Christmas and NYE in Oz is about just one thing – the parties WORDS ALEX HARMON & LEIGH LIVINGSTONE

New Year’s Eve is kind of like planning a wedding, says she who has never planned one. Hear me out though.

You put in a lot of preparation, hoping that everything goes smoothly, that everyone around you is happy, that you look and feel good... and yet the event climaxes very quickly (I’m not talking about consummating the marriage). “You may kiss the bride”, for the New Year’s Eve reveller, is the equivalent to that momentous midnight kiss.

There’s this great song but this awful band called Casiotone for the Painfully Alone with a chorus that captures the feeling of many New Year’s kisses. “Not the way that 8

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you’d imagined it. On a balcony with champagne lips/ But in a pantry against the pancake mix, you had your New Year’s kiss.” Sometimes the planning just doesn’t come off.

You’re in Australia and you want the stroke of midnight on December 31 to be special. Where all of the year’s problems can be forgotten and put down to experience, where you get a fresh slate and the chance to reinvent your life with those inspiring New Year resolutions. Well, if my eves are anything to go by, I’m in trouble.

Invariably at the countdown I am bordering on blind drunk, I’ve lost all of my friends and loved ones in a sea of people, I’m partaking in the things I

should be giving up and I can’t fathom living to the next day, let alone year.

One New Year’s Eve countdown I spent lining up for a port-a-loo, desperately trying not to piss myself as the strangers around me counted down from 10 and embraced my full bladder on number one. Luckily the pun was lost on me. That New Year should have been spent with adulation, but sadly it was urination. They say that the moment is a symbol of the year ahead and it’s true, that was a piss-weak year. Luckily I’m beginning to learn. We’ve put together a guide for you to follow so that you are guaranteed not to have a pissy night ›› and therefore not a pissy year...

THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING EARNEST TELL ME MORE Do something a little bit classy and bring in the New Year with the thespians at this blacktie event. The Melbourne Theatre Company’s special performance of The Importance Of Being Earnest is a very unique way to ring in 2012. Black tie, Chandon, a swing band and Geoffrey Rush dressed up as Lady Bracknell. Okay, maybe it’s not all classy, but if you like your theatre, then this is definitely a Wilde way to bring in the New Year. Canapes, chocs and champagne included.

THE DAMAGE Tix are $285.

THE DETAILS mtc.com.au/ earnestevent

ALOHA NEW YEAR’S EVE TELL ME MORE The Aviary in Perth is bringing a touch of Honolulu to their New Year’s Eve celebrations. Dust off your grass skirts and coconuts for this Hawaiian Beach Party at Perth’s largest rooftop bar, located above the underground station. Guests can look forward to two levels of entertainment, a four hour beverage package and canapes followed by two hours of spirits to really get the party going when the clock strikes 12.

Footwear is unfortunately required.

THE DAMAGE Early bird tickets are on sale now $130.

THE DETAILS theaviaryperth.com.au

THE BELL RINGS TWICE TELL ME MORE For some people (not mentioning any TNT staff names), it has been revealed that sometimes the big countdown can be a bit anti-climactic, so why not get a second shot at that perfect midnight pash by celebrating twice? Due to the time difference between New South Wales and Queensland, the border town of Tweed Heads is the perfect place to start your celebrations because New South Wales is one hour ahead of Queensland. Throw back some champagne, take your practice pash and belt out a rendition of “Auld Lang Syne”, then head across either Boundary Street or Thompson Street to the Queensland town of Coolangatta for round two. There are sure to be plenty of new friends to show you the way.

Another champagne, another pash and why not another set of resolutions? With two sets you are bound to keep at least one... right?

THE DAMAGE It won’t cost you anything to cross the border.

THE DETAILS tweed.nsw.gov.au

FIRST 2012 SUNRISE TELL ME MORE Get ahead of everyone else in Australia and catch a glimpse of the first Aussie sunrise of 2012. The common misconception is that Mt Warning near Byron Bay is the place to celebrate the first morning but the best place is actually on Lord Howe Island. Although there are no officially organised events, this laidback paradise will host a number of bonfires on the beach, along with a few drinks with new friends. According to locals, the accepted tradition is skinny dipping at dawn to welcome the daylight. There is a limit of 400 tourists at a time on the island so get your flights early.

Qantas and Qantaslink fly direct to Lord Howe Island from most major and regional airports.

THE DAMAGE Free beach fun and byo food/drink.

THE DETAILS qantas.com.au and lordhoweisland.info

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FALLS FESTIVAL TELL ME MORE Beautiful Marion Bay in Tasmania is the perfect spot for a rocking music festival.

With spectacular wilderness scenery as your backdrop, you are all set to enjoy a killer lineup, including Arctic Monkeys, John Butler Trio and comedians like Arj Barker. The journey is half the fun though, so hire a camper or invest in some camping gear and make a trip of the stunning journey down to the festival. It’s a three day event but every ticket package includes New Year’s Eve. THE DAMAGE Tickets on sale now and start from $188 for a two day pass.

THE DETAILS Visit 2011.fallsfestival.com.au

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LUNA PARK HARBOUR PARTY

BRISBANE BALL

TELL ME MORE Has your year been a rollercoaster? Well there’s no better way to bring it in than on the wild rides at Sydney’s Luna Park. Not only are they free all night but you’ll get one of the best vantage points in Sydney for the fireworks display. Plus be entertained by the likes of Wynter Gordan, The Potbelleez, Ajax, Zoe Badwi and more.

THE DAMAGE Tix are on sale now, first release are $99.

THE DETAILS harbourparty.com

TELL ME MORE Access your inner teenager and get a ticket to the prom you never had at Brisbane’s RNA Showground in Bowen Hills.

The Brisbane New Year Ball dress code is creative prom/ formal and there are prizes for the best dressed geek, cheerleader, sleazy teacher or jock. Tickets include all food, drink (including spirits) and rides available.

There will be a number of stages with live music and DJs to keep the party going through to midnight and beyond. All the fun of a prom without the curfew from your parents.

THE DAMAGE Tickets on sale now at $145 with a group discount for 10 or more.

THE DETAILS Visit ballevents. org.au for full information.

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SUMMADAYZE TELL ME MORE Summerdayze has moved from New Year’s Day to New Year’s Eve this year.

The “Colourfornia” themed festival runs in Rymill Park, Adelaide featuring a full afternoon and evening of colourful music and spectacular fireworks. The lineup includes the likes of Moby, Pendulum and Grandmaster Flash to help revellers burst into the new year. It is guaranteed to be a big bright night in the park, with the party carrying on into the small hours of 2012.

THE DAMAGE Tickets start from $119 and the promoter even offers a “buy now pay later” option.

THE DETAILS summadayze.com .

PEATS RIDGE FESTIVAL TELL ME MORE Located in Glenworth Valley, New South Wales, Peats Ridge is a fantastic location for a fabulous festival full of all sorts of fun things. The best of Australian and international musicians take over the stage as well as artists and theatre installations to keep you occupied between your favourite gigs. There are markets, food stalls, places to chill out and even opportunites to take a swim in the river nearby, since it will no doubt be a scorcher.

Don’t forget to take along a fancy dress costume for the huge New Year’s Eve Masquerade party.

THE DAMAGE Tix start from $142 for a one day pass. You can win yourself a double camping pass at tntdownunder.com/ competitions THE DETAILS peatsridgefestival.com.au 12

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NYE AT LASSETERS TELL ME MORE Before the Neighbours fans get too excited, we aren’t talking about Paul Robinson’s Lassiters, but Lasseters in Alice Springs. The hotel casino in the heart of Australia is hosting a NYE party on their front lawns. It will be a bit of a family affair until after the 9pm kiddies fireworks are done, then all the responsible sober adults can go inside and do some responsible sober gambling until it is time to calmly cheer in the new year. Of course we aren’t being serious. After the kiddies fireworks, there is all sorts of adult fun to be had, drink stalls, entertainment, live music and the midnight fireworks (why should the kids have all the fun?). Party goers can even grab a room at the hotel to make the stumble home much shorter.

THE DAMAGE The lawn event is free. Rooms at the hotel start from $110.

THE DETAILS lhc.com.au

SUNBURNT CHRISTMAS

SYDNEY HARBOUR’S ISLANDS

TELL ME MORE Forget the Eastenders special and the Queen’s speech, this festive mash-up will give you a Christmas like never before. Sydney’s biggest orphan’s Christmas Day party, by Bondi Beach, comes complete with BBQ lunch and wet t-shirt competition. The lineup includes Timmy Trumpet, Bombs Away and DJ Helena.

THE DAMAGE Tickets cost from $49 (or $69 with lunch). Or, you could head to tntdownunder.com/competitions and maybe win yourself a VIP pass with $200 bar tab.

THE DETAILS sunburntchristmas.com.au

TELL ME MORE Not sure you fancy joining the masses in Circular Quay from the early hours for a long day waiting for the fireworks? Well, if you’re willing to pay for the privilege you can get a ticket to several different islands in the harbour. This means simply turning up for the ferry in the evening, with as much food and booze as you can carry, and then sitting back with your mates and enough space to watch the display on a much less crowded island.

THE DAMAGE Tickets for the likes of Clark, Goat and Shark Island go on sale at 9.30am, 28 November. They’re generally about $175.

THE DETAILS environment.nsw.gov.au

UP TO 47% OFF

TO HOP-ON AND HOP-OFF IN THAILAND AND LAOS! AU$160

SAVE UP TO WHEN YOU BUY A STRAY ASIA PASS! + Buy a Stray Asia Full Moon pass and get FREE return transport via coach and boat to Koh Phangan beach - the home of the Full Moon Party! (worth AU$90!)

For more info or to book visit:

www.straytravel.com Terms and conditions apply.

+ FREE FULL MOON PARTY!

Tubing, Vang Vieng TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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SUMMAFIELDAYZE

TELL ME MORE New Year’s Eve simply not enough for you? Then keep the party going with this January 2 Gold Coast festival which boasts a sweet lineup.

Snoop Dogg, Pendulum, Scissor Sisters, Moby, Grandmaster Flash, Erick Morillo and Sasha are just some of those who will be appearing.

THE DAMAGE Tickets start from $135.

THE DETAILS summafieldayze.com .

BOXING DAY SPORTS TELL ME MORE Once the Christmas celebrations are done and dusted, Boxing Day (that’s St Stephen’s to you Irish out there), is a day to get your sporting fix. In Melbourne, Australia will start their campaign against a touring India with the Boxing Day Test. You can either cough up for a seat at a packed MCG or watch for free on the big screen in Federation Square. In Sydney you’ve got a couple of options. Either take your passport along for free entry to International Day at Randwick Races for some horse action, or join the masses lining the harbour to catch the start of the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.

THE DAMAGE Tickets for the cricket start at $36.

THE DETAILS ticketek.com.au

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SYDNEY RESOLUTION CONCERT SERIES TELL ME MORE It’s billed as the “world’s most spectacular NYE party”, and when you learn a bit about it, it’s hard to disagree. Set on Sydney’s Glebe Island, you’ll get a great view of those all-important fireworks. Not, however, before being treated to live shows from Jamiroquai, Culture Club, Pet Shop Boys and Guy Sebastian.

THE DAMAGE Tix are on sale, 9am, 28 November, starting at $198.

THE DETAILS sydneyresolution.com

NEXT WEEK Feast for the senses The world’s 10 best food markets

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BURNING MAN FILM review by Alex Harmon STARRING: Matthew Goode, Bojana Novakovic, Rachel Griffiths | CERT: M | 110mins

IMMORTALS FILM STARRING: Henry Cavill, Mickey Rourke, John Hurt, Frieda Pinto | CERT: MA | 110 mins

Full of ripped bodies, super-camp outfits and brutal battle scenes, all set to the backdrop of ancient Greece, it’s not hard to guess that this mythological epic comes from the makers of 300.

Visually, it’s stunning, while Hurt does succeed in adding some gravitas, Pinto much beauty and Rourke, a dastardly King Hyperion, some blackhearted fun, even if the soon-to-be-Superman Cavill is the film’s cheesy centre. It makes almost no sense, but that doesn’t really matter at all for this above average swords and sandals flick.

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An emotional rollercoaster of a film with an extremely heavy subject that will leave you drained for days. Like a jigsaw puzzle in a cyclone, the film is hard work to keep track of but undeniably powerful. Persevere with it.

Don’t be expecting a typically light-hearted Aussie film set in sunny Bondi because you’ll want your money back. It is true that Tom (Matthew Goode) is a chef in a trendy restaurant with a beautiful wife Sarah (Bojana Novakovic). They have a cute eight-year-old son Oscar, a gorgeous house and what seems like a perfect existence. But we soon find out that Sarah is dying of breast cancer.

The film begins with a kaleidoscopic series of scenes, flashing from present to past, as we enter the chaotic mind of Tom, who has just crashed his fragile VW car.

The flash-in-the pan scenes are hard to follow and sometimes frustrating, but they are worth it when they piece together.

The car-crash is a symbolic scene in the film. As Tom rolls in slow-motion, the fruit and vegetables he’s just bought for his kitchen spin around him, splattering him with juice. Tom, like the fruit, is bruised, but it’s the wounds he carries on the inside that are causing the most pain. His debilitating grief throws him into bed with every woman he meets and makes him a reckless, unstable father. His temperamental nature alienates him and at times makes him an unlikable lead.

Tom’s an anti-hero and the film doesn’t have a happy ending, but the honesty in this film will put a smile on your face – after you’ve wiped away the tears.

GOOD FOR: Flushing out the tear ducts. If you’re not moved by this film you’re dead.

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EDDIE IFFT LIVE

BOOK IT

NOW!

COMEDY

Known for his quick wit and caustic-style of comedy, Eddie Ifft has a habit of speaking first and then thinking, which gets him in trouble – a lot. Having been fired from most jobs, including a short stint at his father’s insurance firm, Eddie realised his calling was in stand-up comedy and took to the mic.

Nov 24-26, Comedy Store, Sydney $25 comedystore.com.au

JAPANESE FILM FESTIVAL

FINDERS KEEPERS MARKETS

FILM FESTIVAL

MARKETS

Presented by the Japan Foundation, this year is the 15th in the festival’s history and boasts an impressive collection of Japanese films across a broad range of genres. Travelling across the country, Melbourne’s opening night film A Ghost of Chance has the tagline, “What if your only alibi is a 421-year-old ghost?”

These quirky markets are back in time for Christmas shopping. A focus on emerging talent means you have the chance to peruse products from over 60 up-and-coming creatives.

Launching their autumn/winter season with a carriage full of wares from young Sydney designers. Find them at Sydney’s Carriageworks.

Nov 29 – Dec 6, Melbourne Various locations japanesefilmfestival.net

Dec 2-3, Free thefinderskeepers.com.au

SUBSONIC MUSIC The Subsonic Music Festival is a three-day outdoor festival at Riverwood Downs in NSW. Dedicated to deep space electronic music, for $120 you get a chance to see over 120 acts across four stages (that’s less than $1 per act). Featuring acts such as Chali 2na, Kiwi dub/drum & bass heavyweights Tiki Taane and DJ Sambora, Max Cooper, Minilogue and Phil Kieran, plus a whole lot of dub and hip hop sounds thanks to Hermitude, Resin Dogs and more. They’re calling it a boutique festival, read: hot showers on site.

Dec 2-4, Barrington Tops, $120 subsonicmusic.com.au

MANLY WHARF HOTEL SYDNEY

THE MAD SQUARE ART EXHIBITION

BAR

ART

The “Wharfy” is a place where the surf meets the city. Located on Manly’s harbour side, it’s where the northern beaches beauties go to have a relaxing drink along the water’s edge. There’s tasty, affordable dinner and drink specials during the week, plus amazing sunsets. To mix in with the locals, head down on a Sunday afternoon.

During the period between 1910-37 in Germany there was an explosion of creativity – experimental, provocative and utterly compelling. This art exhibition shows the avant-garde art movements that flourished over this period. Including major works by Max Beckmann, Otto Dix and George Grosz.

East Esplanade, Manly, Sydney manlywharfhotel.com.au

National Gallery of Victoria, from Nov 25 ngv.vic.gov.au

A PAIR OF FILTRATE EYEWEAR SUNNIES

WIN

The summer is now oh so close, so what better time to grab yourself a brand new pair of some of the coolest sunnies around to keep the Aussie rays out of your eyes? That’s why TNT has teamed up with Filtrate Eyewear to give five lucky readers a free pair. To enter, head to tntdownunder.com/competitions and name one of Filtrate’s snow or surf team members.

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Hands up who knows what a bat car is?

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Burning bright The West Coast rapper and one time Pimp My Ride host is back in the game, hitting Australian shores for a tour this week WORDS ANDREW WESTBROOK

Many people might have thought we'd seen the last of Xzibit. It seems a long time ago now, just over a decade in fact, when he secured his place amongst hip hop's heavyweights. His reputation had grown steadily throughout the 90s, releasing a couple of highly-rated records, but it was with third album, Restless, that his breakthrough came. The Dr Dre-produced record, which featured the likes of Snoop Dogg, Eminem and Nate Dogg, sold over two million copies and spawned his most successful single, "X". That then led to the legendary "Up In Smoke" world tour, a couple more albums, a few film roles and, of course, the hugely successful Pimp My Ride, which cemented his position as a global star.

A few years ago, however, things started to go wrong.

Pimp My Ride was axed, his sixth album, Full Circle, bombed, and Xzibit decided to take a break. But that was 2007 and this is now. The X-Man is back and, speaking to TNT from his US home, he seems humble, excited to be hitting the road again and thriving on the creative process of putting together his new album, Napalm, which Aussie audiences will be getting a sneak preview of over the coming weeks.

"I haven’t put a record out since '07, I was just out of the time zone," explains Xzibit. "It’s been a while, so I can’t explain the feeling to be doing this man. You’ve got to be on top of your game, you’ve got to be focused, so I’m glad to come back with a record that I’m comfortable with. Napalm is coming next year for sure. We’re about 75 per cent done, we've just gotta do a bit more work on it."

Indeed, after a tough few years, the man who has also appeared in over a dozen films, seems reborn from the experience of getting back in the studio.

"The creative part is always great," he says. "That’s when you get in a studio and find yourself. When you get out there and perform it, that’s when you find people that relate to you. It’s a long process you know, it’s something that you don’t recognise until it’s actually done and you can see the record and how many people relate to it. It kind of hits home that, 'wow, I’m not the only one to feel like this'.

So has he learnt much from getting back to his musical roots? "Yeah, when you stop learning, that’s when you lose the game. You’ve always got to be learning. I always want to know more. Because you know the game, it progresses

and changes."

But with the new album being called Napalm, following the likes of Man vs Machine and Weapons of Mass Destruction, it seems that Xzibit, now 37, has lost none of

“

We changed the word 'pimp' from a negative into a positive

”

his edge. "The album has nothing more or nothing less to do with chemical weapons," explains the hip hopper. "But if it speaks to you, it burns. I feel like the music I make is aggressive. I feel like that’s my calling sign, it’s what I do.

I’ve just got to stick to my line and what I do."

Now, I've been warned by his press people not to ask too much about his past, but as my time with him nears its end, I can't resist throwing a couple of old school questions his way.

Luckily, he doesn't mind. Indeed he immediately becomes brighter, lighter, less intense. On the 2000 "Up In Smoke" tour, on which, along with the likes of Dre, Eminem, Ice Cube and Warren G, he filled stadiums around the world, he enthuses, "that was one of the pivotal points in my career.

It was incredible. That was one of the highlights".

Pushing my luck, I ask how he feels about his MTV show Pimp My Ride, which ran for six seasons until 2007 and made him a household name. He says, "I loved what Pimp My Ride represented. We got inside pop culture and we changed the word 'pimp' from a negative to a positive."

And how pimped is his own car?

"Ha, nah man, I don't drive a pimped up car, I drive a fucking bat car. I'm not gonna tell you what it is because people will look at me in my car, but it's a fucking bat car." ❚ Xzibit's 14-date Australian tour starts this Thursday when he plays Newcastle (Nov 24). He then visits Melbourne, Adelaide, Cairns, Canberra, Townsville, Perth, Frankson, Geelong, Traralgon, Hobart, Sydney, Gold Coast and Darwin. illusive.com.au/xzibit2011

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Servicing the military

JT GOES COMMANDO [USA]

He said it was one of the “most moving evenings he’s ever had,” so I guess Justin Timberlake can finally cross taking Britney Spears’ virginity off that list of monumental evenings.

JT recently attended the Marine Corps Ball after Cpl Kesely De Santis asked him to the event via YouTube.

This bothers me, because now that he’s made this appearance, and let’s call it that (I’ve seen Kesley, it certainly wasn’t a date), it opens the YouTube flood gates for all the other do-good stars. You have to remember that JT did this after Mila Kunis was asked out by a Marine. I am imagining Angelina Jolie at the Oxfam Ball with some vegan kid on a gap year or Rihanna being passed around by the Navy squadron. Actually I think that one’s actually happened.

JASON LIKES WHAT HE’S SEES (IN MIRROR)

Grope expectations: New pictures have emerged of Prince Harry copping a feel of her Royal Hotness’s butt. The question is, did he grope? And did she like it? Judging by the picture, we think yes, and oh yes. And now that Pippa is single, we’d like to see a lot more of this. Because lets face it, their siblings are boring as batshit.

[UK]

Proof that making fun of people can lead to romance (Justin Timberlake, call me?). According to The Sun, Catherine Tate is officially dating Take That’s Jason Orange.

The couple met about a month ago when Ms Tate performed a parody of Take That on her show, calling the spoof band Fake That. It must have been love at first sight for Jason, who watched her parody him in a pair of figure-hugging black leggings. My problem isn’t that their future ginger babies will have the surname Orange, but that Jason is suffering from a very warped case of narcissism.

SASHA’S GREY AREA [USA]

Sasha Grey, who you either know from her porn days, or her days on 22

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

Entourage when she played herself, an ex-porn star trying to break into Hollywood, is pushing the boundaries again. She’s trying to be taken seriously by children.

That sounds wrong, let me clarify. Grey was invited by a Californian Elementary school to be a guest reader to the kids. Now the mothers (let’s face it, it wasn’t the fathers), have complained to the school saying, “why couldn’t they get a fireman or a policeman,

why did they get a porn star?” Which is a fair point really. I don’t have an argument, other than porn stars went to grade school too and shouldn’t be discriminated against.

Sasha says she’s just wanting to break into the mainstream. I believe the girl, why else would you go on Entourage?

J-LO GETS SOME GLEE [USA]

Speaking of corrupting children, J-Lo is rebound dating a 24-year-old dancer by the name of Casper.

The recently divorced Jennifer Lopez and her backup dancer have been dating for several weeks now, if you believe the press.

And the 18 year age gap doesn’t seem to bother them. Watch out Casper, you aren’t the first backup dancer she’s trapped. May I remind you of her marriage to Cris Judd?

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TWEETS OF THE WEEK @AdamLambert “What an enormous honor to sing w QUEEN! I could feel the spirit of Mercury alive on stage tonight! Thank u Brian and Roger and crew. LOVE” @IamDiddy “Heavy D is the person who gave me my 1st chance in the music industry. He got me my internship at Uptown. He believed when no one else did.”

The Aviator. He sure is

@Adam Levine “Gotye. An incredible artist who has elevated things and raised the bar. If you don’t know about him yet, you will very soon”

FREQUENT FLYER BROWNIE POINTS

@EllenDegeneres “What was the pessimist’s blood type? B negative. #ClassicJokeMonday”

[USA]

Leornardo DiCaprio, who only dates models and tries to save the planet, has been caught out. He’s still dating models sure, but as for being Al Gore’s biggest fan and only driving hybrid cars because he cares so much about the planet, well that bit’s a lie.

He flew home last week to attend the premiere of his new film J.Edgar, but needed to get back to Sydney to continue filming The Great Gatsby. So what did he fly? His private jet of course. Hey, that’s fine if it’s how he rolls, but didn’t he recently say he’ll only fly private when he needs to get to “remote locations”? Um, Sydney? I guess he’s unaware of the mega international airport.

PETE’S GHOST TOWN

Photos: Getty

[UK]

Poor Pete Doherty. As if he doesn’t have enough demons of his own, he now thinks that his flat is being haunted by the ghost of Amy Winehouse.

He is so convinced that Amy’s spirit is there in his flat that he has fled to Paris.

And before you sing “rehab: no no no”, he says that he’s been clean for months.

Amy’s probably pissed off that he’s still milking that friendship for all it’s worth.

She must have heard the song he recently sung at a Libertines concert that went something like, “oh Amy, she won’t be around tonight”. Nobody could really make out what he sang but he dedicated it to her. That’s enough M.O to come all the way back to his London flat and spook the shit out of it I say. They’re certainly not spinning the pottery wheel together.

@EddieIzzard “I think New Zealand looks like England, Scotland, Wales and Ireland all shoved together in look and climate and sea” @JessicaSimpson “The average pregnant woman farts 15 times that!

RT @OMGFacts The average person expels flatulence 15 times each day! @ChelseaHandler “Kirstin Dunst is on tonight’s show and has nice boobies”

Does it go slump in the night?

WILL THE REAL KIM’S BUM PLEASE STAND UP

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

[USA]

I’ve tried to ignore the Kim Kardashian vs Kris Humphries saga, but this nugget of gold has fallen into my lap.

Kris says he has proof that Kim’s pride and joy – her butt – is a fake.

Yes, things have sunk even lower than I thought they could. Kris has threatened to show the world that the one thing Kim claims is “natural” about her body is actually more man-made than Mount Rushmore. He says that she uses “booty pads”, Spanx and other things to give it that Kardashian boost. When she takes off the Spanx, the pads and everything else, it’s not the same. And he knows what the real thing looks like – because he has recorded it on his cell phone camera.

Please release the photos Kris. Right now I am imagining it to look like a wilted pair of lettuce leaves. Or Tara Ried’s boobs.

Please welcome Kim Kardashian to the stage...

Just fucking with you, I don’t want that bitch on stage Michael ‘The Boob’ Buble isn’t sympathetic to Kim’s plight at all

CHATROOM

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Ladyhawke After three years of London life, the New Zealand-born singer is bringing her unique stylings back for the summer festivals. She talks video games, crazy fans and Kiwi slang INTERVIEW ALEX HARMON

a hug and a kiss. So I have like a box of these stuffed pigs, I just can’t throw them away.

What did you grow up listening to?

I was from quite a small town and we only had one record store and it only sold top 40 stuff.

I remember discovering music through friends and mixed tapes. A lot of my friends were put onto good music through their older siblings but I never had that. I remember my friend giving me Red Hot Chili Peppers when I was in Form One. and I remember thinking it was the coolest. The same friend gave me Queen’s Greatest Hits.

I mostly listened to rock but I loved poppy rock.

“We’ve got a giant tub of lube on our rider. It’s never turned up”

Do you like living in London?

Yeah, it’s cool. It’s good because I’m busy when I’m there, there’s always something to do. I’m living in Whitechapel – record territory.

Excited about the festival season?

Yeah, really looking forward to it. I’ve just been rehearsing with my band for the last two weeks, we’re going to play some new stuff.

Prefer the small shows or the festivals?

I do love a small, sweaty venue because it feels more personal and sometimes at a festival, especially if it’s an afternoon gig, it’s kind of hard to connect with the crowd. But they both have their pluses, there’s nothing like playing a festival, you get the adrenalin pumping.

Have any weird backstage requests?

We have a couple of joke ones just to see if anyone actually reads the rider. I think we’ve got like a giant tub of lube on there and it’s never turned up. Maybe one day...

Drink of choice?

Probably just beer, I’m a big lager drinker.

I read that you’re into video games?

I tweet about video games quite a lot. I just finished Uncharted 3. I love video games.

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How do you play on the road?

Well I travel with my PS3, but it depends.

Sometimes we’ll get a van that has a flat screen TV mounted up on the wall. Quite often the ones in America will have a Playstation or an Xbox built in, so I just bring my games along and play.

You’ve teamed up with Peaches in the past, what’s she like?

We’ve sort of been friends for quite a while and I asked her if she wanted to work with me and she said yes. She’s really cool, people always think that she’s going to be really crazy and talk about sex all the time but she’s actually quite different. She’s just this really intelligent and onto it person. She’s really funny too.

You said you had some new stuff, will there be an album soon?

Yeah, the album is already finished but it looks like it will be released next March and the first single will be released around January.

Have you had any run-ins with crazed fans over the years?

Oh, I had this guy that would turn up at every show in the UK and he would wait at soundcheck with a hand-written letter and a toy stuffed pig. He was really quiet, creepy and he would just wait there and he would always want

People don’t make mix tapes anymore do they, such a shame...

No, I know. I was thinking about that the other day, someone reminded me, it was so cool.

I’d love to find all of those tapes.

Can you give me some Kiwi slang?

Choice? I can’t think what else. I think you just have to say “ay” at the end of every sentence.

Or “primo”. I don’t think I’ve ever used the word primo but I have heard a lot of Kiwis use it.

Describe your fashion style?

I guess I just wear a lot of big vintage T-shirts and cardigans and I have this thing with boots.

I love boots. I don’t wear any girl’s clothes, I hate the way girl clothes look on me.

Tell me about your tattoos...

I have a few. One on my wrist, on the underside.

It’s the logo for a Gibson Firebird which was one of my first ever guitars. I also have a biker tattoo of an eagle and a cross which I love. And then I have some homemade tattoos on my feet, which Sarah, who does all of my artwork, did with a needle and some ink. A space invader, little pine trees, a stick figure being beamed up by a UFO. Oh, and I also have “KC” because I lived in Kings Cross in Sydney for ages.

Ladyhawke plays Homebake Festival, Saturday, December 3. She also plays gigs in Sydney (Nov 23) and Melbourne (Dec 7).

Homebake is in The Domain, Sydney homebake.com.au / ladyhawkemusic.com

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THIS WEEK

IN NUMBERS 90 Flies like a dream

QANTAS DREAMLINER

PORN ON A PLANE

AUSTRALIA

UNITED KINGDOM

Qantas has welcomed the new Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft to Sydney as part of their 91st birthday celebrations.

The new aircraft is more fuel efficient with higher humidity and cabin pressure to help combat common flying ailments such as fatigue. The long awaited 50 Dreamliners that Qantas ordered for Jetstar are now almost three years late and won’t be in action for at least another 18 months.

Ryanair boss Michael O’Leary is considering offering porn to passengers on flights.

O’Leary is hoping to offer an in-flight web-based service similar to the pay-TV on offer in hotel rooms. The option will be available on a special app that can be accessed on any type of hand held device.

“Hotels around the world have it, so why wouldn’t we?” he said.

BOOK NOW!

Height, in feet, of the wave surfed by Garret McNamara off Portugal, making him the new record holder

Length in centimetres of snakes Chinese performer Liu Fei shoves up his nose, before pulling from his mouth

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Sperm samples that can be stored on the twowheel bike used by a lab in Seattle to tranport them around town

PAIHIA

AUCKLAND

HOT WATER BEACH

WAITOMO TAUPO

ROTORUA

RIVER VALLEY KAITERITERI WESTPORT LAKE MAHINAPUA FRANZ JOSEF

WELLINGTON KAIKOURA CHRISTCHURCH

WANAKA QUEENSTOWN

RANGI START ANYWHERE

www.kiwiexperience.com

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WORLDNEWS

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PENGUINS TO GO IT ALONE

CANADA

Two male penguins who only have eyes for each other have become unlikely celebrities, after their Toronto handlers said they would be separated.

Although they do not have a sexual relationship, Buddy, 20, and Pedro, 10, have been inseparable since meeting in an all-male group at a zoo in Toledo. But the zoo’s breeding programme means they must now strike out on their own.

Pet dino: The expert who advised Spielberg during the Jurassic Park films has said he believes people could one day have pet dinosaurs. Dr Jack Horner is currently working on a ‘Chickenosaurus’ project that is splicing together chicken and dinosaur genes.

PRISON FULL OF SURPRISES

MEXICO

A surprise inspection of a jail in the Mexican city of Acapulco uncovered 19 prostitutes, two sacks of marijuana and 100 roosters for cock-fighting.

Federal officers checked up on the jail in preparation for a high volume transfer of maximum-security prisoners and were shocked to discover six female prisoners in the men’s section, as well as sharp weapons, two peacocks and luxury items, such as plasma TVs.

ROADKILL CRAVINGS UNITED KINGDOM

A 42-year-old North Yorkshire pregnant woman has developed a taste for roadkill, cooking up hares, deer, pigeons and owls hit by cars. “Normally I eat really heathily, but now I get strong cravings for roadkill,� said Alison Brierley. “I love the taste. I’d like to try fox and badger, but they’re never in good enough condition to eat.�

-( (($ )!(' & " (+ /","- PPP F:@B<;NL <H GS 26

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LUCK OF THE IRISH A plucky Irish fan managed to not only blag his way onto the Estonian bench, for his country’s 4-0 Euro 2012 play-off victory, but even celebrate with the players on the pitch.

County Cork fitness instructor Conor Cunningham, 27, had travelled to Estonia without a match ticket and, not wanting to pay the £500 which touts were demanding, managed to sneak inside. He then found an Estonian tracksuit, which he put on, before taking his place on the bench next to the Estonian manager.

BECKS NOT WANTED Paris Saint-Germain defender Sylvain Armand has become the first player to openly question David Beckham’s move to France, suggesting the Galaxy man is past it.

Armand said: “I don’t really want him to join. He will come for our image and it’s

Show me the money: Didier Drogba, 33, could be heading to Russia to be paid £10m a year to play for Anzhi Makhachkala, who recently made £15.6m a year Samuel Eto’o the world’s best paid footballer. Dimitar Berbatov could also be following him east.

good to play with a world star, but then in the field...”

BANTAM BLUNDER League Two club Bradford City have been left with red faces

after having to withdraw their 2012 calendar from the shops after realising a former player was on the cover wearing another team’s kit.

The one-time Bantam Dele Adebola was shown wearing his Hull City kit.

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HOTSHOTS

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WINNER

WEEKLY WINNER

HOT TIPS: Motion

JUMPING SHIP: Richie Robinson, 24, Australia

RICHIE SAYS: “This photo was taken in Halong Bay, Vietnam.

My girlfriend and I had just been kayaking around the bay and the best way to cool off was to jump off our ‘junk’ boat.”

THE MONTHLY WINNER GETS THREE DAYS CAR HIRE FROM TRAVELLERS AUTOBARN Photos are judged by ROUGH GUIDES senior photo editor Mark Thomas each month. Send high-res (300 dpi) jpegs with name, age, nationality and a description, to: travel@tntdownunder.com Weekly winner Richie wins a free night’s stay at the award-winning Sydney Central YHA (yha.com.au). The monthly winner gets three days car hire from Travellers Auto Barn. The runner-up wins a Rough Guides book of their choice sent to an Oz or NZ address. roughguides.com

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ACTION PHOTOGRAPHY Fast-moving objects make great subjects as freezing action can show us all sorts of things about the world, usually hidden from the naked eye. Poses which cannot be held in real time are particularly fun.

WIN

HOT TIPS 1. Putting the camera on motordrive is invaluable if your reactions are not razor-sharp.

2. Squeeze the shutter as the subject comes into view and pan with it as you take the shot, keeping the movement going even after the shot has been taken.

3. Use a fast shutter (sports mode) to freeze action and a slow shutter (night mode) to blur movement.

4. Use a fill-in flash (just turn your flash on with a compact) to help freeze action and inject a bit of punch.

Always remember the usual composition rules. Just because it’s quick, it’s not an excuse to forgo technique.

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TRAVELTIPS

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Tasmania’s must-see Cradle Mountain

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ON THE ROAD WITH TRAVEL

TALK ABIGAYLE ISSACSON 19, ENGLAND

YOU ASKED FOR IT...

WE ANSWER YOUR TRAVEL QUESTIONS

going to Tasmania and would like Q Itoamknow where you think are the best places to visit? Suzanne Morgan, UK amazing how many great attractions A It’s are squeezed into Australia’s smallest state.

Lovely Hobart is an old seafaring city, surprisingly sophisticated and cultural for such a small place.

The Tasman Peninsula is where you’ll find wild coastal scenery and one of the island’s premier attractions, the Port Arthur convict settlement.

It’s hard to believe this beautiful, serene setting was once the scene of such dreadful acts. A number of historic towns are located in the midlands, with Richmond and Ross the pick of the bunch. Along the north and east coasts are a string of small beach towns and the magnificent Freycinet National Park, famous for the beautiful Wineglass Bay. The rugged west coast is home to the almost impenetrable Southwest Wilderness and the quaint town of Strahan. The star of the whole Tassie show is Cradle Mountain, and the spectacular jagged peaks are the starting point of a number of excellent walks. The Overland

Track is perhaps Australia’s finest, a six-day jaunt through alpine moors, old growth forests and rocky landscapes. got two days in Perth, what should Q I’ve I do? Ian Jones, USA ferry to Fremantle is the perfect way to A The explore the Swan River and check out the enormous McMansions lining the riverside cliffs.

Historic “Freo” is Perth’s port town, swallowed by the city’s suburban spread but still keeping its salty seaside persona. It’s home to some fine colonial architecture, with the old jail, market and Roundhouse all worth a gander, while the old pubs along South Terrace serve up some great nosh – try the Sail and Anchor. Afterwards, down a cleansing pale ale at the Little Creatures brewery, a favourite amongst locals. Perth’s beaches are a great place to wind down at the end of a long day’s sightseeing, with Scarborough and Cottesloe particularly beautiful as the sun sets. After dark, taxi to Northbridge for a night of food, booze and frivolity.

CHECKING IN THE PICKLED FROG TASSIE The bright green hostel in Hobart is pretty hard to miss. A converted pub, it has a friendly, social vibe. With $1 pool, table ball, board games, cheap Tasmanian beer and a OVERVIEW

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WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN IN OZ? Starting in Sydney we made our way up the coast to Byron, Brisbane, Bowen and then Townsville.

WHAT MADE YOU DECIDE TO COME TO OZ? To experience a new way of living and to give my pale skin some sun!

WHERE IS YOUR FAVE PLACE IN OZ? Byron Bay with its amazing waves that try to rip off your bikini! It’s such a chilled place to be in the day, I can’t wait to go back.

MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE? Jet skiing round Magnetic Island on my birthday!

MET ANY AUSSIE ANIMALS? I cuddled a koala at the Billabong Sanctuary near Townsville and met Tonka the wombat, famous for being the first wombat diagnosed with depression... He was a sweetie!

BIGGEST SURPRISE ABOUT OZ? How huge it is and how quickly it guzzles up your money!

ANYTHING YOU WISH YOU HAD? Less clothes and more money.

hammocked “chill corner”. The hostel lives up to its ‘green’ name too, caring for the environment.

ROOMS There’s three to 12-bed dorms, plus doubles.

BILL PLEASE A bed in a 12-bed mixed dorm from $23/night.

281 Liverpool St, Hobart, TAS thepickledfrog.com.au

CONSERVATION VOLUNTEERS AUSTRALIA EXPERIENCE

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Each month our fave interview WINS a four-day Conservation Volunteers Australia experience. Email: travel@tntdownunder.com.

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XXXXXX TOP FIVE TRAVELLERSTALE

DAZED AND CONFUSED

N

American Laura Anne Klinge got lost on a girlie roadtrip back from Nimbin.

We can’t imagine why...

The plan seemed quite simple: catch a train from Newcastle to Byron Bay for a calm relaxing weekend on the beach. At least for me and four girlfriends, that’s what we thought.

The night before our scheduled departure, however, we quickly realised that the anticipated “quick train to Byron” was actually an 11 hour trek.

Discouraged by the long ride, yet unwilling to give up our weekend plans, we searched for alternative transportation and, at 2am, decided to rent a car. It was a reluctant decision, as all of us were from the United States and had never driven on the left side of the street before.

Still, we figured making it to Byron in seven hours instead of 11 was worth it. I mean, five intelligent university students with driver’s licences could navigate a few hours north, right?

Well, despite the fact that every time one of us went to switch lanes we’d turn on the windscreen wipers, the drive up to Byron was a breeze.

We arrived in plenty of time to resume the typical weekend rituals with a box of goon and night out on the town.

Living in Sydney, it was a nice break from the techno-crazy, boys-withtighter-jeans-than-mine club scene.

I mean Sydney’s nightclub may have the lights, DJs and dance floors for a night of heavy partying, but nothing quite compares to jumping up and down to “YMCA” on a picnic table at Cheeky Monkey’s in Byron Bay. On Saturday, we caught a bus to Nimbin for the Mardi Grass Festival.

Before arrival, I could not understand how a community of only a few hundred people in pretty much the middle of nowhere could in one weekend attract thousands of visitors.

Once I was there, however, I understood. Throughout the bong throwing contests and joint rolling competitions, we were among people of all kinds and ages out to enjoy the festival. You know, a real fun-forthe-whole-family type of atmosphere (ha!). With no specific itinerary for the day, we at one point found ourselves following a crowd of people lining up

for the “parade”.

I mean, only in Nimbin will hundreds of people stand in line to see over 20 Volkswagen campervans drive by, one after another, and be excited about it.

When Sunday came, none of us were ready to go home. We savoured every last second at the beach before packing up. Anticipating the same leisurely drive as on our way up, we drove into the sunset, jamming to our iPod and stopping along the way to take photographs of the scene. I believe it was almost two hours after we left when one of us asked: “Hey, why does that sign say, ‘Brisbane: 45km’ on it?”

The car went silent. It couldn’t be.

We could not have just driven two hours in the wrong direction.

Unwilling to come to terms with what we saw on the sign, we continued along our path and, I hate to admit, actually rationalised the sign being wrong. It wasn’t until we saw another sign directing us to the Queensland border that we were forced to face our mistakes and turn around.

Now I could put two and two together (weekend in Nimbin plus navigating around on the opposite side of the street in unfamiliar land equals inevitable failures) to see where we went wrong. But I’ll let you make your own assumptions.

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Send us your scary, funny or embarrassing travel tale (preferably about Australia or New Zealand) and if published you’ll win a $300 travel voucher redeemable on Oz Experience passes (ozexperience.com), ATA NT camping trips (adventuretours.com.au) and with Wayward Bus (waywardbus.com. au). Email your stories (700 words max), to travel@tntdownunder.com

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Island paradise CENTRAL AMERICA

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BIGTRIP

Takin’ it easy Whether lazing on pictureperfect beaches or gatecrashing weddings, it’s hats off to Panama’s San Blas Islands WORDS VICKY BAKER

I didn’t mean to a crash a wedding on my Caribbean holiday.

If I had, I might have honed my technique. The Vince Vaughan movie tells you that the proper way to go about this is to dress like you belong and say you’re a distant relation.

Turning up straight from the beach in flip flops and shorts is surely not ideal. Being the only non-indigenous person on the island doesn’t do much for the ‘long lost cousin’ guise either.

“

The archipelago has 365 islands, one for every day of the year

”

It was my tour guide, Toyo, who had heard about the local marriage ceremony and suggested we check it out.

“Don’t worry. It’s not formal,” he assured. Toyo hadn’t been wrong yet during our trip around his homeland – the Kuna Yala islands, on Panama’s Caribbean coast – and it seemed he wasn’t going to start now.

Sure enough, we arrived at the thatched hut to find an exceedingly casual affair. The family’s washing was still hanging from the rafters and the catering involved simply helping yourself to grandma’s bread rolls. The best part, however, had to be the ceremony itself, which involved simply throwing the 16-year-old bride and groom into a hammock four times, then declaring them man and wife.

The New York Times once said Kuna Yala – also known ›› as San Blas – is one of the few holiday destinations that TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

33

an anthropologist and a beach bum can agree on. True enough, with ancient tribal culture mixing with translucent Caribbean seas and coral reefs, you can’t really go wrong.

The myth is that the expansive archipelago consists of 365 islands, one for every day of the year. The real number is thought to be greater, about 400, but that depends if you count those consisting of nothing more than a palm tree on a patch of white sand. Seeing as they make the best photos, you probably should.

One of the reasons development here has been kept to a minimum is because Kuna people rule their own roost having gained semi-autonomous status after uprising against the

HOME SWEET HOME FINDING A HOMESTAY

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TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

Photos: LANDOV/Press Association Images, Getty, TNT Images

Not sure where to head for a homestay? William Friar, author of the latest Moon Handbooks Guide to Panama, offers some advice: “The area that is easiest to get to and best-equipped to deal with visitors is on the western end of the archipelago, which is also the most modern and most exposed to tourism.

“Slightly east of that area is Islas Robinson, which have the cheapest places but are mainly uninhabited except for backpacker huts. The most traditional places are further east, but backpackers will probably just have to head out there themselves and see about finding a place to stay when they arrive.”

For further advice, try contacting a Panama City hostel or Elias Perez from Kuna Yala’s Hotel Corbiski (eliasperezmartinez@yahoo.com, corbiski.com, +507 6708-5254).

state in 1925. Proud and protective of their heritage, they now manage their own tourism industry and refuse to sell any land to outsiders.

Although there is a constant threat from creeping westernisation, Kuna traditions remain very much alive. Some of the local outfits could come straight out of the pages of National Geographic. The women’s traditional dress – brightly coloured and hand embroidered – is simply stunning. Even though they aren’t worn for the benefit of tourists, some Kuna see no harm in making the most of the foreigners’ curiosity by charging one dollar for a photo opportunity.

Be sure to ask before you start snapping.

To arrive at the islands, most visitors take the 30-minute flight from the capital to the island of El Porvenir. Others arrive by boat, from Panamanian mainland or nearby Colombia (see opposite). A few, like me, take the overland route from the capital, which is the way the Kuna travel. The track has been recently paved, meaning it’s less spine-joltingly bumpy. There’s also said to be a point on the route when you can see the Caribbean sea on one side and the Pacific on the other; either that’s a myth or I was looking the wrong way.

Wherever you first arrive, your stay will soon become all about island-hopping. Most people head to the uninhabited islands for the true ‘Robinson Crusoe’ getaway (and the most popular area for backpackers is, in fact, called Islas Robinson), yet it’s well worth combining this with a visit to a Kuna village.

The island of Tigre – where Toyo and I attend the wedding – has a good balance of tradition and low-key tourism. Fascinatingly the island is run on socialist principles.

When a school is built, everyone has to take part: the men dig the foundations, the women transport the rubble. If one of them decides they’d prefer to move to the mainland to find a job, they are expected to bring back a share of their earnings. Similarly, although tourists are welcome, they must

stay in community-built huts so all the proceeds from their visit can be shared.

Over the next few days I find myself moving from island to island in various dugout canoes. I get lucky when I happen upon the inter-island congress meeting, where all the local chiefs have converged to discuss a range of issues, including the protection of their land and culture. The next day, I catch my ride onwards via boat that delivers the islands’ supply of fizzy drinks.

Travelling to some of the least-visited islands in Kuna Yala involves improvisation and a willingness to adapt to limited infrastructure. You can’t be guaranteed to catch a wedding or a soda-delivery boat, but it’s the unpredictable nature of travelling in these parts that is worth embracing. As I spend my final night in a Kuna family’s hammock, falling asleep to the sound of lapping waves, I wouldn’t have it any other way. ❚

AFTER HOURS PANAMA CITY NIGHTLIFE When in Panama City, you’ll hear a lot about infamous nightlife strip Calle Uruguay. It’s bright, brash and fun, but for something a little more artsy and familiar, head to the rougher-round-the-edges neighbourhood of Casco Viejo. Here you’ll find La Casona, a great live music venue which makes its home in rundown colonial properties before the developers move in. For this reason, it tends to up sticks from time to time, so be sure to check the current address at enlacasona.com.

SAIL TO COLOMBIA One of the hottest tickets among backpackers in Latin America has to be the trip from Kuna Yala to the historic walled port of Caragena, Colombia. Most hostels in Panama City will be able to point you in the right direction. Details have to be arranged with your captain, but a five-day trip typically costs from $370, including all meals, but not soft drinks or alcohol.

Trips are rarely booked in advance, and sometimes demand outweighs supply, so be prepared to be patient and have a fallback plan. Bring your sea legs, because it can get choppy and most passengers feel sickness at some point.

For up-to-date advice, contact Casa Viena in Cartagena (casaviena.

Hit the road: com) and Luna’s Your guide to buying Castle in Panama a car in Australia City (lunascastle hostel.com).

NEXT WEEK

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35

Victoria’s secret MORNINGTON PENINSULA

Morning glory Only an hour from Melbourne, the Mornington Peninsula has diving, surfing and dolphins, albeit ones with terrible music taste WORDS PAUL HANSFORD

Sometimes when travelling, there are moments when you step away from yourself, look at what you are doing and say, “How on earth did I get here?” It was a question I found myself asking in the Mornington Peninsula while 36

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being dragged along the ocean by a rope, singing Coldplay’s “Yellow” through a snorkel.

I can see why you might think I was a stubbie short of a six-pack. But I was assured by our dolphin-swimming guides

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guides that the only way to attract these intelligent mammals was to sing to them. So what better than a little bit of England’s pre-eminent rock quartet to stir the dolphins to the surface?

But the stars obviously don’t shine for them and everything they do, because I saw chuff all while I was belting out the tune. I carried on singing, in that way you do when you only know three lines and you repeat them constantly, but they were having none of it.

A change of genre was necessary. Wracking my brain for a song, the first thing that came to mind was “Hit Me Baby One More Time”, and before I knew it, I was confessing to dolphins about how my loneliness was killing me. They must admire honesty, those dolphins, as mid-way through the second verse, I looked to my left and there it was.

Just two metres away, a beautiful grey dolphin was swimming right next to me. It was so close that I could make out the texture of its skin and the scars along its smooth body. A big, beady eye was checking me out for a good 10 seconds, and then it was gone, down into the depths of the

OZTRIP

bay. I decided to call her Britney.

The Mornington Peninsula is just over an hour away from Melbourne, and is quite possibly the most stunning part of Australia you’ve never heard of. A curved expanse of land that helps create Port Philip Bay, and shelter Melbourne from the rough Bass Strait, the peninsula is an achingly beautiful place that makes you want to forget the travelling lark and settle down for a decade or so.

The Mornington Peninsula is the rich people’s playground, where monied Melburnians own summer houses and go to play at weekends, but it is also an exciting and refreshing backpacker destination. It’s the perfect place to head to if you’ve had enough of the city, a destination where you unwind so much that you’re in real danger of unravelling.

Diving in the MP is extremely popular, and for good reason. The sheltered waters of the bay offer perfect conditions for both learning and discovery. From over 60 shipwrecks and WWI submarines to a vast array of colourful sealife, no two dives are the same. The coastline is full of little nooks and crannies to go looking around, with the ›› TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

37

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Photos: Tourism Victoria, Getty, Thinkstock

famous weedy seadragons – called so because all the other sealife picks on them – a must-see.

Beach life on the peninsula is one of contrasts. The inner beaches are picturesque and serene, perfect for a stroll or just unfurling a towel and reading for the day. The outer beaches have excellent surf and are perfect for beginners to learn how to ride those tubes.

I’d never surfed before and was slightly wary of going out and being dumped by the kind of wave that killed Patrick Swayze in Point Break. Not that I’m paranoid or anything. I whacked on a wet suit, and after a 20 minute briefing on the sands of Gunnamatta Beach, we were out in the water and catching waves. Or trying at least. If you’ve never surfed before the only thing you can compare it to is trying to get out of a moving bath on a big board.

The weightlessness you feel in the water goes as soon as you try to get up on the board, and you need all your strength to stand up before the wave passes you by. Then you have the small matter of balancing, steering and dismounting and you’re an expert. Whether you’re good, bad, or just plain ugly, you’ll definitely enjoy yourself and I’ll defy you not to want to go back for more the next morning.

Set against all the activity, the peninsula also has a rich and colourful history. Much is centred around Point Napean, a national park set right at the end of the headland. Not only is it full of breathtakingly beautiful views, but it is also the place where former prime minister Harold Holt went for a swim in 1967 never to return. You can walk up to a point that gives a view of the beach he swam from, and even

see the bench that world leaders sat on for the memorial service – I swear I saw “LBJ woz ‘ere” etched into the wood.

Point Napean is also the sight of the first shots fired in both World War I and II. While Europe declared war and then went off to bed, the Aussies woke up to find German ships trying to hot-foot it out of the harbour.

They even fired at a Tasmanian fisherman, who after one too many Cascades, forgot to put the right friendly flags on his mast. The big gun turrets are still in place now as a quiet and eerie monument to the protection of Melbourne, and you can take a walk around the old armaments if you so desire.

You can also amaze your friends and relatives by telling them you’ve been on the thinnest road in Australia.

I didn’t catch the name of it, but I’m assured you can throw a stone from Port Phillip Bay to the Bass Straight right over the top of it. Skill.

And once all the excitement is over, you can retire to the picturesque Portsea Hotel for a couple of sherberts.

Overlooking Portsea marina, the big hotel was once nearly bought by rich locals who wanted to close it down, but the riff-raff are still allowed in to drink and be merry. Mix it up with the rich oldies and the spunky youngsters as the sun goes down on another day.

When I was there, the sunset was spectacular and I found myself reminiscing about the amazing day I’d just had Feast for the senses: and where Britney was The world’s 10 best now. The dolphin, not food markets the pop star, that is. ❚

NEXT WEEK

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39

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WIN

HOW TO ENTER

Go to tntdownunder.com and click on the WIN page. See webpage for terms and conditions. Winners will be selected at random.

WIN THIS MELBOURNE & DAVID BECKHAM EXPERIENCE Melbourne is widely considered to be Australia’s fanatical capital of sport, filling stadiums left, right and centre, no matter what type of ball is being hit, thrown or kicked.

Therefore TNT T has got together with some Victorian friends to offer an incredible sporting package to coincide with LA Galaxy’s visit to the city, when David Beckham’s side will take to the field against Harry Kewell’s Melbourne Victory.

To top it off, we’ll also throw in the plane tickets, accommodation and a sports tour for good measure.

THE PRIZE INCLUDES THE FOLLOWING MATCH TICKETS: Two reserved seats (general admission) to the Melbourne Victory vs LA Galaxy game at Melbourne’s

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@tnt_downunder

Etihad Stadium on Tuesday 6 December, 2011. OFFICIAL AFTER PARTY TICKETS: Two tickets to the official post-match party.

SPORTS TOUR: Sports Lovers Day Tour for two people, with Melbourne Sports Tours.

NOMADS: Four nights accommodation (en-suite dorm room) and drinks vouchers for two people at Nomads Melbourne.

FLIGHTS: Two return flights to Melbourne from your nearest Australian capital city, including airport transfers.

Competition closes midnight AEST Sunday 27th November. Winners must be within Australia and able to travel to Melbourne between 3-7 December, 2011.

Log on to tntdownunder.com for further details and to enter.

worth over

$2,000

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VICLISTINGS

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MELBOURNE STAY

The Tote thetotehotel.com

All Nations Backpackers Hotel & Bar 2 Spencer St. 1800 222 238, allnations.com.au

BOOK NOW!

Central Melbourne Accommodation 21 Bromham Place, Richmond.

03 9427 9826, centralaccommodation.net

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

Exford Hotel 199 Russell St. 03 9663 2697, exfordhotel.com.au Flinders Station Hotel 35 Elizabeth St. 03 9620 5100, flindersbackpackers.com.au

Home at the Mansion 66 Victoria Parade. 03 9663 4212, homemansion.com.au

Athenaeum Theatre. Fri, Jan 20. $72.

The British singer-songstress is back after six years between gigs here in Oz. She’s giving audiences a sneak-peak of her upcoming album too.

188 Collins St, Melbourne

hotelspencer.com Urban Central 334 City Rd, Southbank. 1800 631 288, urbancentral.com.au

MELBOURNE DO

Home Travellers Motel 32 Carlisle St, St Kilda. 1800 008 718, hometravellersmotel.com.au

Australian Centre for the Moving Image Federation Square.

03 8663 2200, acmi.net.au

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

Melbourne Aquarium Cnr of Flinders St & King St. 03 9923 5999, melbourneaquarium.com.au

Melbourne Central YHA 562 Flinders St. 03 9621 2523, yha.com.au Nomads Melbourne 198 A’beckett St. 1800 447 762, nomadshostels.com Space Hotel 380 Russell St. 1800 670 611, spacehotel.com.au The Spencer 475 Spencer St. 1800 638 108,

Port Campbell Hostel 18 Tregea St, Port Campbell.

03 5598 6305, portcampbellhostel.com.au

BETH ORTON

The Greenhouse Backpacker Level 6, 228 Flinders Lane.

1800 249 207, greenhousebackpacker.com.au Habitat HQ 333 St Kilda Road, St Kilda. 1800 202 500, habitathq.com.au

GREAT OCEAN RD Anglesea Backpackers 40 Noble St, Anglesea.

03 5263 2664, angleseabackpackers.com.au

Base Melbourne 17 Carlisle St, St. Kilda.

1800 242 273, stayatbase.com

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

ticketek.com.au 377 Russell St. 03 8663 7228, oldmelbournegaol.com.au Official Neighbours Tours 570 Flinders St. 03 9629 5866, neighbourstour.com.au

MELB MUSIC Cherry Bar myspace.com/cherrybarmelbourne Corner Hotel cornerhotel.com East Brunswick Club eastbrunswickclub.com Esplanade Hotel espy.com.au Northcote Social Club northcotesocialclub.com Palace Theatre palace.com.au The Hi-Fi thehifi.com.au

Surfside Backpackers Cnr Great Ocean Rd & Gambier St, Apollo Bay. 1800 357 263, surfsidebackpacker.com

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MURRAY RIVER Echuca Gardens YHA 103 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 Rawsom Caravan Park Depot Rd, Rawson. 03 5165 3439, rawsoncaravanpark.com.au

PHILLIP ISLAND

Torquay Foreshore Caravan Park 35 Bell St, Torquay. 1300 736 533 torquaycaravanpark.com.au

Amaroo Park YHA 97 Church St, Cowes. 03 5952 3620, yha.com.au

MORNINGTON

The Island Accommodation 10-12 Phillip Island Tourist Road.

03 5956 6123 theislandaccommodation.com.au

Bayplay Lodge 46 Canterbury Jetty Rd, Blairgowrie.

03 5988 0188, bayplay.com.au Sorrento Foreshore Reserve Nepean Hwy, Sorrento. 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

GRAMPIANS Brambuck Backpackers 330 Grampians Road, Halls Gap. 03 5356 4250, brambuck.com.au Fleece Inn YHA 139 Charleston Rd, Bendigo. 03 5443 3086, yha.com. au Grampians YHA Eco Hostel Cnr Grampians & Buckler Rds, Halls Gap. 03 5356 4543, yha.com.au Old Crown Hotel 238 Hargreaves St, Bendigo. 03 5441 6888 Tim’s Place 44 Grampians Road,

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

GEELONG This little town is a must-stop before you head onto the Great Ocean Road. It’s pretty famous for it’s pride and joy AFL team, the Cats, but it’s more than just a football town.

Check out the Corio Bay waterfront which has great places to eat and drink and, because of the nearby university, there’s a thriving student scene and an edgy bohemian feel.

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OZLISTINGS TRAVEL AGENTS Adventure Travel Bugs 02 9212 4444, adventuretravelbugs.com Backpackers World Travel 1800 676 67 63, backpackersworld.com Peter Pans Adventure Travel 1800 188 799, peterpans.com Travellers Contact Point 1800 647 640, travellers.com.au Tribal Adventure Travel 1800 984 484, tribaltravel.com.au YHA Travel 02 9261 111, yha.com.au

TOUR FIRMS

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Bottom Bits Bus Tours around Tasmania 1800 777 103, bottombits.com.au

Mojosurf Sydney to Byron surfing tours 1800 113 044, mojosurf.com

Wildlife Tours Tours around Victoria 1300 661 730, wildlifetours.com.au

Standbycars.com 1300 789 059, standbycars.com

Bunyip Tours Tours around Victoria 1300 286 947, bunyiptours.com

Nullarbor Traveller Tours from Adelaide and Perth 1800 816 858, the-traveller.com.au

Cool Dingos Fraser Island Tours 1800 072 555, cooldingotour.com

Ocean Rafting Whitsundays tours 07 4946 6848, oceanrafting.com

Wings Diving Whitsundays packages 1 300 859 853 whitsundaydive.com.au

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

Explore Whitsundays Whitsundays packages 1800 675 790, explorewhitsundays.com

Oz Experience Hop on-hop off Australia-wide tours 1300 300 028, ozexperience.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

Surf & Sun Adventures South Australia tours 1800 786 386, surfandsun.com.au Surfcamp Sydney to Byron surfing tours 1800 888 732, surfcamp.com.au The Rock Tour Red centre tours 1800 246 345, therocktour.com.au

RENTAL FIRMS Apollo Motorhomes 1800 777 779, apollocamper.com Backpacker Campervan Rentals 1800 767 010, backpackercampervans.com.au Boomerang Cars 0414 882 559, boomerangcars.com.au Explore More Rentals 1800 708 309, exploremore.com.au

Adventure Tours Australia-wide tours 1800 068 886, adventuretours.com.au

Jump Tours Tours around Tasmania 0422 130 630, jumptours.com

Airliebeach.com Whitsundays packages 1800 677 119, airliebeach.com

Kakadu Dream Kakadu tours 1800 813 266, kakadudreams.com.au

Under Down Under Tours Tours around Tasmania 1800 064 726, underdownunder.com.au

Autopia Tours Tours around Victoria 03 9391 0261, autopiatours.com.au

Kangaroo Island Adventure Tours Adelaide to KI tours 13 13 01, kiadventuretours.com.au

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

Kings Cross Car Market For buying and selling vehicles. 110 Bourke St, Woolloomooloo.

02 9358 5000, carmarket.com.au

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

Maxi Ragamuffin Whitsundays sailing 1800 454 777 maxiaction.com.au

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

Spaceships 1300 132 469, spaceshipsrentals.com.au

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

Hippie Camper 1800 777 779, hippiecamper.com

Wicked Campers 1800 246 869, wickercampers.com

TRANSPORT CO Greyhound Australia Buses around Australia.

13 20 30, greyhound.com.au Premier Transport Group Buses along the east coast.

13 34 10, premierms.com.au Spirit of Tasmania Ferries to Tasmania.

03 6336 1446, spiritoftasmania.com Redline Coaches For getting around Tasmania.

03 6336 1446, redlinecoaches.com.au

S S O R C KINGS RKET A CAR M NT E R & L L E S , Y U B WE ARE HERE s "59).'

3%,,).'

2%.4).'. Good selection of Cars, Wagons, Vans & Campervans. 7$ 30%#)!,)343. Over 50 vehicles in stock with up to 50% BUY BACK. All with camping gear. s All vehicles for sale have a Government approved Roadworthy Certificate (Pink Slip) issued by ).$%0%.$%.4 -%#(!.)#3, not company employees like most car dealers. s &2%% information with tips for buying, selling and travelling.

Transfer & Registration forms for all States. s &2%% Advice on Registrations, Transfers, which States are cheapest/easiest to Transfer and Register. s &2%% 12 Months Australia Wide Warranty (guaranteee) with (2 2/!$3)$% !33)34!.#% available on most vehicles.* NOT a 5000km warranty which gets you about 25% of your way around Australia. *Conditions apply

INSURANCE CE FREECALL: LL 1800 808 188 We sell the only known ‘No Excess’ 3rd Party Property Insurance available to travellers from $230* For 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 12 months. Insurance available even if you buy a car from another place and without you having to tell lies to get it.

NOW IN OUR 20TH YEAR OF

PUTTING TRAVELLERS ON THE ROAD

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NOT COMING TO SYDNEY? THEN BUY AND SELL ONLINE @ www.carmarket.com.au OR CALL 02 9358 5000 46

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LOW COST, QUALITY CAMPERS AND CARS BREEZER HIRE

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per day*

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$177 =HU WYPJL IHZLK VU )YLLaLY *HTWLY]HU KH` YH[L MVY [YH]LS ¶ *HY WYPJL IHZLK VU ,JVUVT` *HY KH` YH[L MVY [YH]LS 5V]LTILY 7YPJLZ JVYYLJ[ H[ [PTL VM WYPU[ YH[LZ JOHUNL ^LLRS` ZV JVU[HJ[ V\Y 9LZLY]H[PVUZ [LHT MVY [OL ILZ[ KHPS` YH[L 4PUPT\T OPYL HWWSPLZ VMMLY Z\IQLJ[ [V H]HPSHIPSP[` HUK SPHIPSP[` YLK\J[PVU JV]LY PZ HKKP[PVUHS -VY M\SS [LYTZ HUK JVUKP[PVUZ JVU[HJ[ )HJRWHJRLY 9LU[HSZ

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NSWLISTINGS

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SYDNEY STAY

Powerhouse Museum Darling Harbour. powerhousemuseum.com.au

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

BOOK NOW!

Skydive the Beach Wollongong. skydivethebeach.com

Big Hostel 212 Elizabeth St. CBD. 02 9267 7718, bighostel.com

Sydney Observatory The Rocks. sydneyobservatory.com.au

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

Sydney Olympic Park Darling Harbour. sydneyolympicpark.nsw. gov.au

Easy Go Backpackers 752 George St. CBD. 02 9211 0505, easygobackpackers.com.au

Sydney Tower and Skytour 100 Market St, CBD. sydneyskytour.com.au

City Resort Hostel 103-105 Palmer St. Woolloomooloo 02 9357 3333, cityresort.com.au

Sydney Central YHA 11 Rawson Place. CBD. 02 9218 9000 www.yha.com.au Sydney Harbour YHA 110 Cumberland Street. The Rocks.

02 9261 1111, yha.com.au Westend Backpackers 412 Pitt St. CBD. 1800 013 186 nomadshostels.com Boomerang Backpackers 141 William Street, Kings Cross.

02 8354 0488, boomerangbackpackers.com Dlux Hostel 30 Darlinghurst Rd, Kings Cross. 1800 236 213 dluxbudgethotel.com.au Kangaroo Bak Pak 665 South Dowling St. Surry Hills.

02 9261 1111 Avalon Beach Hostel 59 Avalon Pde, Avalon Beach.

02 9918 9709, avalonbeach.com.au Bondi YHA 63 Fletcher Street.

Tamarama. 02 9365 2088, yha.com.au

EMINEM

Sydney Aquarium Darling Harbour. sydneyaquarium.com.au

Sydney Football Stadium. Sun, Dec 4. Tickets from $150.

Slim Shady has announced a second Sydney show after his first sold out in minutes. Along with Lil Wayne and Aussie rappers Hilltop Hoods.

Sydney Wildlife World Darling Harbour. sydneywildlifeworld.com.au

Moore Park Rd

ticketek.com.au

Lamrock Lodge 19 Lamrock Ave. Bondi.

02 9130 5063, lamrocklodge.com Lochner’s Guesthouse 8 Gowrae Ave. Bondi.

02 9387 2162, Aegean Coogee Lodge 40 Coogee Bay Rd. Coogee.

04 0817 6634, aegeancoogee.com.au Coogee Beachside 178 Coogee Bay Rd, Coogee. 02 9315 8511, sydneybeachside.com.au Surfside Backpackers 186 Arden Street. Coogee.

02 9315 7888, surfsidebackpackers.com.au Glebe Point YHA 262-264 Glebe Point Road. Glebe. 02 9692 8418, yha.com.au

Boardrider Backpacker Rear 63, The Corso, Manly. 02 9977 3411 boardrider.com.au The Bunkhouse 35 Pine St, Manly. 1800 657 122, bunkhouse.com.au Manly Backpackers 24-28 Raglan St. Manly. 02 9977 3411 manlybackpackers.com.au Cammeray Gardens 66 Palmer St, North Sydney. 02 9954 9371 sydneyboardinghouse.com

SYDNEY DO Manly Surf School Manly Beach.

02 9977 6977, manlysurfschool.com Maritime Museum Darling Harbour. anmm.gov.au Oceanworld Manly West Esplanade. oceanworld.com.au

BLUE MTNS Blue Mountains YHA 207 Katoomba St, Katoomba.

02 4782 1416, yha.com.au

CENTRAL COAST Newcastle Beach YHA 30 Pacific St, Newcastle.

02 4925 3544, yha.com.au Terrigal Beach YHA 9 Ocean View Dr, Terrigal.

02 4384 1919, yha.com.au

Sydney Harbour Bridge The Rocks. bridgeclimb.com

The Furnished Property Group 02 8669 3678, furnishedproperty.com.au

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BYRON BAY Backpackers Holiday Village 116 Jonson St 1800 350 388, byronbaybackpackers.com.au

Taronga Zoo Mosman. zoo.nsw.gov.au

Backpackers Inn 29 Shirley St 1800 817 696, backpackersinnbyronbay.com.au

Waves Surf School wavessurfschool.com.au

Byron Bay Accom 02 6680 8666, byronbayaccom.net

SYDNEY MUSIC Hordern Pavillion playbillvenues.com

The Arts Factory 1 Skinners Shoot Rd. 02 6685 7709, nomadshostels.com Nomads Byron Bay Lawson Lane.

1800 666 237, nomadshostels.com

Oxford Art Factory oxfordartfactory.com

Byron Bay YHA 7 Carlyle St. 1800 678 195, yha.com.au

Sydney Opera House sydneyoperahouse.com

SOUTH COAST

The Annandale annandalehotel.com

Great Southern Backpackers 13 Chandos St, Eden. 02 6496 1515, greatsoutherninn.com.au

The Basement thebasement.com.au The Enmore enmoretheatre.com.au

COFFS HARB

The Gaelic Hotel thegaelic.com The Metro metrotheatre.com.au

Coffs Harbour YHA 51 Collingwood St. 02 6652 6462, yha.com.au

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

IMAX CINEMA Admission: From $17.50, Southern Promenade, Cockle Bay This cinema in Sydney’s Darling Harbour uses the biggest movie screen in the world, so big that once you put those 3D glasses on, it’s almost like being in the film yourself. You’ll either be wowed or you’ll be getting motion sickness. The cinema generally screens action flicks, when you feel like you’re moving with the actors, or nature documentaries, when you’ll imagine you’re up close with the animals. Monday is tight-arse ticket day. Check the website for prices. Steven Soderbergh’s star-studded Contagion (pictured) is amongst the films currently showing. imax.com.au

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BRISBANE STAY Aussie Way Backpackers 34 Cricket St. 07 3369 0711, aussiewaybackpackers.com

BOOK NOW!

Banana Bender Backpackers 118 Petrie Terrace.

07 3367 1157, bananabenders.com

Brisbane City Backpackers 380 Upper Roma St 1800 062 572, citybackpackers.com Brisbane City YHA 392 Upper Roma St 07 3236 1947, yha.com.au Chill Backpackers 328 Upper Roma St. 1800 851 875, chillbackpackers.com

Gallery of Modern Art Stanley Pl, South Bank.

07 3840 7303, qag.qld.gov.au

Backpackers in Paradise 40 Peninsula Drive, Surfers Paradise.

1800 268 621, backpackersinparadise.com.au

Story Bridge Adventure Climb 170 Main St, Kangaroo Point.

1300 254 627, storybridgeadventureclimb.com.au

Base Brisbane Central 308 Edward St. 07 3211 2433, stayatbase.com

Brisbane City Apartments 1800 110 443, brisbanecityapartments.com

44 Queen St, Surfers Paradise.

1800 22 99 55, aquariusbackpackers. com.au

Riverlife Adventure Centre Kayaking & rock climbing. Lower River Terrace, Kangaroo Point.

07 3891 5766, riverlife.com.au

Base Brisbane Embassy 214 Elizabeth St. 07 3166 8000, stayatbase.com

Brisbane Backpackers Resort 110 Vulture St, West End. 1800 626 452, brisbanebackpackers.com.au

Lone Pine Koala Santuary 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket.

07 3378 1366, koala.net

GOLD COAST SEVENS FEVER PITCH Gold Coast. Fri, Nov 25 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sat, Nov 26. From $39.

This two-day event kicks off the 2011/12 world series. Don your most stupid fancy dress and enjoy one of the fastest, most exciting sports.

Skilled Park

goldcoastfeverpitch.com.au

Bunk Backpackers Cnr Ann & Gipps Sts, Fortitude Valley.

1800 682 865, bunkbrisbane.com.au The Deck Budget Accommodation 117 Harcourt Street, New Farm.

04 3377 7061

Tinbilly Travellers Cnr George and Herschel Sts. 1800 446 646, tinbilly.com

BRISBANE DO Australia Zoo Glasshouse Mountains, Tourist Drive, Beerwah.

07 5436 2000, australiazoo.com.au

XXXX Ale House Brewery tours.

Cnr Black & Paten St, Milton.

07 3361 7597, xxxxalehouse.com.au

BRISBANE MUSIC The Hi-Fi thehifi.com.au The Tivoli thetivoli.net.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 Paradise.

1800 816 300, goldcoastbackpackers.com.au Islander Backpackers Resort 6 Beach Rd, Surfers Paradise.

1800 074 393, islander.com.au

The Zoo thezoo.com.au

Sleeping Inn Surfers 26 Peninsular Dr, Surfers Paradise.

1800 817 832, sleepinginn.com.au

X and Y Bar xandybar.com.au

GOLD COAST Aquarius Backpackers

Cheers International Backpackers 8 Pine Av, Surfers Paradise. 1800 636 539, cheersbackpackers.com.au

Surfers Paradise Backpackers Resort 2837 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers. 1800 282 800, surfersparadisebackpackers.com.au

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

49

QLDLISTINGS Surf â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Sun Beachside Backpackers 3323 Surfers Paradise Blvd, Surfers Paradise.

1800 678 194, surfnsun-goldcoast.com Surfers Paradise YHA Mariners Cove, 70 Seaworld Drive, Main Beach, Surfers Paradise.

07 5571 1776, yha.com.au Trekkers Backpackers 22 White St, Southport. 1800 100 004, trekkersbackpackers.com.au

GC DO Dreamworld Theme park. dreamworld.com.au Get Wet Surf School 07 5532 9907, Seaworld seaworld.com.au Wet â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;nâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Wild Water World wetnwild.myfun.com.au Warener Bros Movie World movieworld.com.au

020 120 mooloolababackpackers.com Dolphins Beach House 14-16 Duke Street, Noosa 1800 454 456, dolphinsbeachhouse.com Nomads Noosa 44 Noosa Dr, Noosa Heads.

1800 666 237, nomadshostels.com Halse Lodge YHA 2 Halse Lane, Noosa.

1800 242 567, halselodge.com.au

RAINBOW BEACH Dingos Backpacker Adventure Resort 20 Spectrum St. 1800 111 126 dingosresort.com Pippies Beach House 22 Spectrum St. 1800 425 356, pippiesbeachhouse.com Skydive Rainbow Beach 0418 218 358, skydiverainbowbeach.com

Zorb Adrenalin rolling.

07 5547 6300

SUNSHINE CST Mooloolaba Backpackers 75-77 Brisbane Rd, Mooloolaba. 1800

HERVEY BAY Aussie Woolshed 181 Torquay Road.

07 4124 0677 woolshedbackpackers.com

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BUNDABERG

Colonial Village YHA 820 Boat Harbour Drive.

07 4125 1844 yha.com.au Fraser Roving 412 The Esplanade.

1800 989 811, fraserroving.com.au Halse Lodge YHA 408 The Esplanade.

1800 242 567, halselodge.com.au Next at Hervey Bay 10 Bideford St. 1800 102 989, nextbackpackers.com.au

Federal Backpackers 221 Bourbong St. 07 4153 3711 federalbackpackers.com.au Northside Backpackers 12 Queen St. 07 4154 1166 Bundaberg Bondstore Distillery tours. 07 4131 2999 bundabergrum.com.au

TOWN OF 1770

Nomads Hervey Bay 408 The Esplanade.

1800 666 237, nomadshostels.com Palace Backpackers 184 Torquay Rd. 1800 063 168, palaceadventures. com.au

FRASER ISLAND Eurong Beach Resort 07 4120 1600 eurong.com.au

1770 Backpackers 6 Captain Cook Dr. 1800 121 770, the1770backpackers.com

yha.com.au Airlie Waterfront Backpackers 6 The Esplanade. 1800 089 000, airliewaterfront.com 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 Nomads Airlie Beach 354 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 666 237 nomadshostels.com

1770 Undersea Adventures 1300 553 889, 1770underseaadventures.com

ROCKHAMPTON Emus Beach Resort 88 of Patterson St, Emu Park. 07 4939 6111, emusbeachresort.com Myella Farmstay Baralaba.

07 4998 1290, myella.com

Palace Adventures 184 Torquay St, Hervey Bay, 1800 063 168 palaceadventures.com.au

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AIRLIE BEACH Airlie Beach YHA 394 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 247 251,

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 Yongala diving.

07 4724 0600, adrenalindive.com.au

WORKERS WANTED s .EW &ARM &ORTITUDE 6ALLEY s 7ORKING 4RAVELLERS !CCOMMODATION s "RAND .EW INNER SPRING BEDS s !LL BEDROOMS HAVE 46 AND &RIDGES s $BL ROOMS 3INGLE ROOMS AVAILABLE s & F STUDIO OWN KITCHEN AND BATHROOM n WEEK MINIMUM STAY s 0RICES FROM AS LOW AS A NIGHT AND THAT S YOUR OWN PRIVATE F F ROOM s 4RANSPORT GALORE WITH WALKING DISTANCE TO #"$ &ORTITUDE 6ALLEY

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AYR BACKPACKERS stay at Wilmington House

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Call Mick & Daphne 07 4783 5837

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TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

F*CK SYDNEY! NYE 2011

I’M GOING TO

VEGAS! $249 fors igc h18 t- 24 14 en en De Betw

to Birdees +Free entry days , Family Fri XMAS Party travaganza xing day Ex + Bunk Bo

QLD’S #1 HOSTEL

COMPARE THE COST!

QLDLISTINGS Yongala Dive Yongala diving.

07 4783 1519, yongaladive.com.au

NJOY Travellers Resort Harbour 141 Sheridan St. 1800 807 055, njoy.net.au

BOOK NOW!

MAGNETIC ISL

Nomads Cairns 341 Lake St. 1800 737 736, nomadshostels.com

Bungalow Bay Backpackers Horseshoe Bay. 1800 285 577, bungalowbay.com.au

Northern Greenhouse 117 Grafton St. 1800 000 541, northerngreenhouse.com.au

SUMMAFIELDAYZE

MISSION BEACH

INNISFAIL Innisfail Budget Backpackers Workerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hostel 125 Edith St. 07 4061 7833 Walkabout Motel & Backpackers 07 4061 2311

CAIRNS STAY Bohemia Central Cairns

Doug Jennings Park, Main Beach

AJ Hackett Bungy jumping canyon swinging. 1800 622 888 cairns.ajhackett.com

ticketmaster.com.au

Cairns Dive Centre 1800 642 591, cairnsdive.com.au

100 Sheridan St. 1800 558 589, bohemiacentral.com.au

189 Bunda St. 1800 058 440, dreamtimehostel.com

Pro Dive 07 4031 5255, prodivecairns.com

Bohemia Resort Cairns 231 McLeod St. 1800 155 353, bohemiaresort.com.au

Gilligans Backpackers and Hotel Resort 57-89 Grafton St. 1800 556 995, gilligans.com.au

Raging Thunder Adventures Whitewater rafting. 07 4030 7990, ragingthunder.com.au

Calypso Backpackers 5 Digger St. 1800 815 628, calypsobackpackers.com.au Dreamtime Travellers Rest

Skydive Cairns 07 4052 1822, skydivecairns.com.au

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

Parrotfish Backpackers Resort 37 Warner St, Kuranda.

07 4099 5011, parrotfishlodge.com

GULF SAVANNAH

CAIRNS DO

Gold Coast. Mon, Jan 2. Tickets from $135.

With a lineup including Pendulum, Snoop Dogg, Calvin Harris, Scissor Sisters and Moby, the NYE party is likely to go on for days on the GC.

Scottyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Beach House 167 Reid Rd, Mission Beach.

07 4068 8676, scottysbeachhouse.com.au

Kuranda Rainforest Park 88 Kuranda Heaights Rd, Kuranda.

07 4093 7316 kurandarainforestpark.com.au

PORT DOUGLAS

Nomads Esplanade 93 The Esplanade. 1800 175 716, nomadshostels.com

Magnums 7 Marine Pde, Arcadia Bay. 1800 663 666, magnetic-island.com/arc-rsrt.htm

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway 07 4038 1555, skyrail.com.au

ATHERTON

Nomads Beach House 239 Sheridan St. 1800 229 228, nomadshostels.com

Base Magnetic Island 1 Nelly Bay Rd. 1800 24 22 73, stayatbase.com

Pleasure Divers 07 4778 5788

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Emu Creek Cattle Station 07 4094 8313

DAINTREE Koala Beach Resort Cape Kimberly Rd. 1800 466 444

CAPE TRIB Crocodylus Village Lot 5, Buchanan Creek Rd, Cow Bay. 07 4098 9166, crocodyluscapetrib.com PKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Jungle Village Cnr Avalon & Cape Trib Rd. 1800 232 333, pksjunglevillage.com.au

Skydive Cairns 07 4030 7990, ragingthunder.com.au

7/2+%23 7!.4%$ &RUIT AND 6EGETABLE PICKING JOBS AVAILABLE

s 4RANSPORT TO FROM WORK s &2%% COURTESY BUS PICK UP s ,AUNDRY FACILITIES s )NTERNET FACILITIES s 0LEASANT AND FRIENDLY STAFF s "ISTRO AVAILABLE AT "ANJO S TAVERN NEXT DOOR

6!2)%49 /& 7/2+ !6!),!",% 9%!2 2/5.$

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SNORKEL OR DIVE WITH

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

The Only way to see the

Great Barrier Reef

LEARN TO DIVE

LIVEABOARD TRIPS

DAY TRIPS

SNORKELLING OR DIVING IN

CAIRNS? Specialising in Day, 2 & 3 Day Liveaboard Snorkel & Dive Trips and Dive Courses

121 Abbott St, Cairns 4870 Australia

Tel 07 4051 0294 BUNDABERG If the beautiful weather, stunning coastline and coral-fringed beaches don’t seduce you, then the local rum will. Bundy is famous for its cane fields, which produce the country’s most famous rum, it’s up there with Vegemite and Tim Tams. You’ll also be able to find fruit-picking and farm work here if you decide to stay.

www.cairnsdive.com.au Email info@cairnsdive.com.au TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

53

WALISTINGS BOOK NOW!

follow us on Aberdeen St, Northbridge.

1800 188 100, oneworldbackpackers.com.au

@tnt_downunder

BOOK NOW!

Perth City YHA 300 Wellington St. 08 9287 3333, yha.com.au The Old Swan Barracks 6 Francis St. 08 9428 0000, theoldswanbarracks.com Underground Backpackers 268 Newcastle St, Northbridge.

08 9228 3755, undergroundbackpackers.com.au The Witch’s Hat 148 Palmerston St. 08 9228 4228, witchshat.com

PERTH DO JIMMY BARNES Perth Zoo. Wed, Jan 25. From $89.50.

Celebrate the eve of Australia Day by rocking out with the voice of Aussie rock himself, “Barnsey”. Too right, he’s as Aussie as they get.

20 Labouchere Rd, South Perth

PERTH STAY Billabong Backpackers Resort 381 Beaufort St. 08 9328 7720, billabongresort.com.au Britannia on William 253 William St, Northbridge. 08 9227 6000, perthbrittania.com Emperor’s Crown 85 Stirling St, Northbridge. 1800 991 553,

ticketek.com.au

Aquarium of Western Australia 91 Southside Drive, Hillarys.

08 9447 7500, aqwa.com.au Kings Park & Botanic Garden bgpa.wa.gov.au

emperorscrown.com.au

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

Globe Backpackers & City Oasis Resort 561 Wellington St. 08 9321 4080, globebackpackers.com.au

Perth Zoo 20 Labouchere Road, South Perth.

08 9474 3551, perthzoo.wa.gov.au

Ocean Beach Backpackers 1 Eric St, Cottlesloe. 08 9384 5111, oceanbeachbackpackers.com.au One World Backpackers 162

PERTH MUSIC Amplifier amplifiercapitol.com.au

KID KENOBI Ambar Nightclub. Fri, Dec 2. $15.

The master of big bass, Mr Kenobi has been around for over 15 years now. He’s all grown up and back doing the nightclub circuit of Oz.

104 Murray St, Perth Astor Theatre liveattheastor.com.au Mojo’s Bar mojosbar.com.au The Bakery nowbaking.com.au The Rosemount Hotel rosemounthotel.com.au

moshtix.com.au

FREO STAY Backpackers Inn Freo 11 Pakenham St. 08 9431 7065, backpackersinnfreo.com.au Old Firestation Backpackers 18 Phillimore St. 08 9430 5454, fremantleprison.com.au Sundancer Backpackers Resort

like us on

facebook/tnt downunder

80 High St. 08 9336 6080, sundancerbackpackers.com.au

FREO DO Fremantle Markets 08 9335 2515, fremantlemarkets.com.au Fremantle Prison 1 The Terrace.

08 9336 9200, backpackersinnfreo.com.au

ROTTNEST ISL Rottnest Island YHA Kingstown Barracks. 08 9372 9780, yha.com.au

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

ALBANY Albany Bayview Backpackers YHA 49 Duke St. 08 9842 3388, yha.com.au Cruize-Inn 122 Middleton Rd. 08 9842 9599, cruizeinn.com Metro Inn Albany 270 Albany Hwy. 1800 004 321, metrohotels.com.au

MONKEY MIA Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort 1800 653 611, monkeymia.com.au

NINGALOO REEF Blue Reef Backpackers 3 Truscott Crescent, Exmouth 1800 621 101, aspenparks.com.au Ningaloo Club Coral Bay 08 9948 5100, ningalooclub.com Excape Backpackers YHA Murat Rd, Exmouth.

08 9949 1200, yha.com.au

BROOME STAY Cable Beach Backpackers 12 Sanctuary Road.

1800 655 011, cablebeachbackpackers.com Kimberley Club 62 Fredrick St 08 9192 3233, kimberleyklub.com

BROOME DO Sun Pictures Carnarvon St. 08 9192 1077, broomemovies.com.au

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

7 ,Ê -/Ê "-/ Ê Ê7 ÊÓääÇ -/ÊÓäänÊEÊÓää

FREMANTLE “Freo” to the locals is the coolest part of Perth, from the laidback vibe and bike riding hippies to the gourmet food and boutique beers you can enjoy. You’ll still find the 19th century buildings, the old jetty, lighthouse and even the old jail that held the convicts back in the day. While you’re there, sample the locally brewed Little Creatures beer.

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

55

NTLISTINGS

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DARWIN STAY

KATHERINE STAY

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

DON’T MISS!

Darwin YHA 97 Mitchell St. 08 8981 5385, yha.com.au

BIG4 Katherine Holiday Park 20 Shadforth Road.

1800 501 984, big4.com.au Palm Court Kookaburra Backpackers Giles St. 1800 626 722

Elkes Backpackers 112 Mitchell St. 1800 808 365, elkesbackpackers.com.au

KATHERINE DO

Frogshollow Backpackers 27 Lindsay St. 1800 068 686, frogs-hollow.com.au

Airborne Solutions Scenic helicopter flights. 08 8972 2345 airbornesolutions.com.au

Gecko Lodge 146 Mitchell St. 1800 811 250, geckolodge.com.au

Nitmiluk Tours Gorge cruises and kayak hire. 1300 146 743 nitmiluktours.com.au

Melaleuca on Mitchell 52 Mitchell St. 1300 723 437, momdarwin.com

PARTYSTAR NYE PARTY Location TBA. Sat, Dec 31, $99.

Bring in the New Year with a retro party. The theme is “One Night in Vegas”, so make it a night to remember. Buffet and drinks included.

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

Darwin

partystar.com.au

Fannie Bay Gaol Heritage prison.

East Point Road, Fannie Bay. 08 8941 2260, nt.gov.au Museum & Art Gallery of the Northern Territory 19 Conacher St, Bullocky Point. 08 8999 8264, magnt.nt.gov.au Oz Jet Boating Stokes Hill Wharf.

TENNANT CREEK Tourist Rest Leichardt St. 08 8962 2719, touristrest.com.au

ALICE SPRINGS

1300 135 595, ozjetboating.com.au Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise Adelaide River.

08 8978 9077, jumpingcrocodile.com.au

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

Wave Lagoon Waterfront Precinct. waterfront.nt.gov.au

Annie’s Place 4 Traeger Ave. 1800 359 089, anniesplace.com.au

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Haven Resort 3 Larapinta Drive.

1800 794 663, alicehaven.com.au Toddy’s Resort 41 Gap Rd. 1800 027 027, toddys.com.au

ALICE DO Alice Springs Desert Park Larapinta Drive.

08 8951 8788, alicespringsdesertpark.com.au Alice Springs Reptile Centre Meet and hold lizards.

9 Stuart Terrace.

08 8952 8900, reptilecentre.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 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

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

ARNHEM LAND This off-the-beaten track location east of Kakadu National Park is best accessed with a local guide. Famous for its Aboriginal rock art, red earth and stunning coastline. Check out the 2006 film Ten Canoes, which captures life in Arnhem Land by tapping into the Aboriginal mystic past. It was co-directed by one of the indigenous cast members giving it an authentic slice of Arnhem life.

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FREYCINET

BAROSSA VAL Barossa Backpackers 9 Basedow Road Tanunda.

08 8563 0198, barossabackpackers.com.au

STRAHAN Discovery Holiday Parks Cnr Andrew & Innes St. 1800 454 292, discoveryholidayparks.com.au Strahan YHA 43 Harvey St. 03 6471 7255, yha.com

The Republic Bar. Tue, Jan 3. $33.

The NYC rapper is doing the solo route and performing his doubleedged rhyme and street-bred wit at one of Tassie’s coolest venues.

299 Elizabeth St, Hobart

HOBART STAY Central City Backpackers 138 Collins St. 1800 811 507, centralbackpackers.com.au Hobart Hostel 41 Barrack St. 1300 252 192, hobarthostel.com.au Montgomery’s YHA 9 Argyle St. 03 6231 2660, yha.com.au Narrara Backpackers 88 Goulburn St. 03 6234 8801, narrarabackpackers.com Pickled Frog 281 Liverpool St. 03 6234 7977, thepickledfrog.com Transit Backpackers 251 Liverpool St. 03 6231 2400, transitbackpackers.com

HOBART DO Cascade Brewery 140 Cascade Rd. 03 6224 1117 cascadebreweryco.com.au Mt Wellington Descent Bike tours. 03 6274 1880 mtwellingtondescent.com.au Salamanca Markets Every Saturday, Salamanca Place. salamanca.com.au Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery 5 Argyle St. tmag.com.au

PORT ARTHUR Port Arthur Historic Ghost Tours 1800 659 101, portarthur.org.au

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.

moshtix.com.au

STRAHAN DO Four Wheelers Henty Sand Dunes quadbike tours. 04 1950 8175, 4wheelers.com.au

03 6331 9906, backpackersaccommodation.com.au

Water by Nature Extreme multiday whitewater rafting. 1800 111 142, franklinrivertasmania.com

LAUNCESTON DO

Wild Rivers Jet Jet boating. 03 6471 7396, wildriversjet.com.au adelaide stay

Cataract Gorge launcestoncataractgorge.com.au Centre for Beer Lovers Boag’s Brewery, 39 William St. 03 6332 6300, boags.com.au Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery 2 Invermay Rd & 2 Wellington St. 03 6323 3777, qvmag.tas.gov.au Tasmania Zoo 1166 Ecclestone Rd. 03 6396 6100, tasmaniazoo.com.au

DEVONPORT 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 Mt Roland Budget Backpacker Rooms 1447 Claude Rd, Gowrie Park.

03 6491 1385.

CRADLE DO

Riverland Backpackers Labour Hire Services 08 8583 0211

Iluka Backpackers YHA Reserve Rd. 03 6257 0115, yha.com.au Freycinet National Park Brewery, Wineglass Bay camping. 03 6256 7000, wineglassbay.com

GZA (WU-TANG CLAN)

04 1281 1838, dolphinboat.com.au

ADELAIDE STAY Adelaide Oval Home to the Adelaide Backpackers Inn 112 Carrington St. 1800 24 77 25, adpi.com.au Adelaide Central YHA 135 Waymouth St. 08 8414 3010, yha.com.au Adelaide Travellers Inn 220 Hutt St. 08 8224 0753, adelaidebackpackers.com.au

COOBER PEDY Opal Cave Coober Pedy Hutchinson St. 08 8672 5028, opalcavecooberpedy.com.au Radeka Down Under 1 Oliver St. 1800 633 891, radekadownunder.com.au

EYRE PENINSULA Coodlie Park Farmstay Flinders Highway, Port Kenny.

08 8687 0411, coodliepark.com Baird Bay Ocean Eco Experience Sea lion and dolphin swims.

08 8626 5017, bairdbay.com

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

Calypso Star Charters Great white shark cage diving.

08 8682 3939, sharkcagediving.com.au

KANGAROO IS Kangaroo Island YHA 33 Middle Terrace, Penneshaw.

08 8553 1344, yha.com.au

RIVERLAND

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

Berri Backpackers Sturt Highway, Berri.

08 8582 3144, berribackpackers.com.au

FLINDERS RANGES

Harvest Trail Lodge Loxton.08 8584 5646, harvesttrail.com.au Nomads on Murray Sturt Highway, Kingston on Murray.

1800 665 166, nomadsworld.com

Annie’s Place 239 Franklin St. 1800 818 011, anniesplace.com.au

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

Angorichina Tourist Village 08 8648 4842, angorichinavillage.com.au Wilpena Pound Resort Wilpena Rd. 08 8648 0004, wilpenapound.com.au

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

Backpack Oz 144 Wakefield St. 1800 633 307, backpackoz.com.au Blue Galah Backpackers Lvl 1, 52-62, King William St. 08) 8231 9295, bluegalah.com.au Glenelg Beach Hostel 5-7 Moseley St. Glenelg. 1800 359 181, glenelgbeachhostel.com.au Hostel 109 109 Carrington St. 1800 099 318, hostel109.com My Place 257 Waymouth St. 1800 221 529, adelaidehostel.com.au Shakespeare Hostel 123 Waymouth St. 1800 556 889, shakeys.com.au

ADELAIDE DO Adelaide Oval Home to the Donald Bradman collection. War Memorial Drive.

08 8300 3800, cricketsa.com.au Adelaide Zoo Frome Rd. 08 8267 3255, zoossa.com.au

Devils at Cradle Tassie devil sanctuary.

3950 Cradle Mountain Rd. 03 6492 1491. devilsatcradle.com

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

Overland Track Six-day walk

Temptation Sailing Dolphin swimming, Glenelg.

GLENELG A little beach suburb that feels like the lovechild of Brighton (England) and St Kilda (Melbourne). Luckily it has the sandy shores in its lineage.

It’s about a half-hour tram ride from Adelaide and is home to some pretty decent bars and restaurants. For the real experience, what you want to do is get some fish and chips and sit on the jetty.

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NZLISTINGS

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BUS TOURS

BOOK NOW!

Flexi-Pass Combines InterCity and Newmans. 0800 222 146, flexipass.co.nz

jucy.com.nz

0800 227 369, stayatbase.com

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

Bamber House (BBH) 2 2 View Rd, Mt Eden. +64 9623 4267, hostelbackpacker.com

Rental Car Village +64 9376 9935, hire-vehicles.co.nz

Flying Kiwi Wilderness Expeditions 1800 143 515, flyingkiwi.com

Spaceships 1300 139 091, spaceships.tv Standby Cars 1300 789 059, standbycars.com.au

Kiwi Experience +64 9366 9830 kiwiexperience.com

Wicked Campers 1800 246 869, wickedcampers.com

Magic Travellers Network +64 9358 5600, magicbus.co.nz NZ Travelpass 0800 339 966, travelpass.co.nz

AUCKLAND

Stray +64 9309 8772, straytravel.com

NEW ZEALAND VS ZIMBABWE Napier. Thur, Jan 26 – Mon, Jan 30. Price TBC. Catch the one Test Match between the Black Caps and the touring minnows. There’s also ODIs and T20 matches around the country.

RENTAL FIRMS Ace Rental Cars 1800 140 026, acerentalcars.com.nz

McLean Park

blackcaps.co.nz

Airport Skyway Lodge Backpackers (BBH) 30 Kirkbride Road, Mangere. +64 9275 4443, skywaylodge.co.nz Albert Park Backpackers (VIP) 27-31 Victoria St East. +64 9309 0336, bakpak@albertpark.co.nz

Backpacker Campervan & Car Rentals +800 200 80 801, backpackercampervans.com

363, exploremore.co.nz

272, escaperentals.co.nz

Bargain Rental Cars 0800 001 122, bargainrentals.com.nz

Econo Campers +64 9275 9919, econocampers.co.nz

Explore More 1800 800 327, dcrentals.com.nz

Auckland International Backpackers (BBH) 2 Churton St, Parnell. +64358 4584,

Darn Cheap Rentals 0800 447

Escape Rentals 1800 456

Jucy Rentals 0800 399 736,

Base Auckland 229 Queen St.

Central City Backpackers 26 Lorne St. +64 9358 5685, backpacker.net.nz City Garden Lodge 25 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell. +64 9302 0880 Kiwi International Queen St Hotel and Hostel 411 Queen St. 0800 100 411, kiwihotel.co.nz 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) 5A Oaklands Rd, Mt Eden. +64 9638 6545, oaklands.co.nz Pentlands (BBH) 22 Pentland Ave, Mt Eden. +64 9638 7031 Queen Street Backpackers (VIP)

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

WAITANGI, BAY OF ISLANDS Often referred to as New Zealand’s birthplace, Waitangi is steeped in history. It is where the Declaration of Independence of New Zealand was signed, in 1835, and then, five years later, the Waitangi Treaty, which was signed by representatives of the British crown and Maori chiefs, giving the Maori ownership of their land and the rights of British subjects... well, that’s the official description anyway. Not everybody agrees that it was quite so progressive! It’s a great place to be on either New Year’s Eve or Waitangi Day (the national holiday), on February 6. Nearby Paihia and Russell also boast some of New Zealand’s oldest drinking establishments.

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WHEN YOU JOIN YHA

yha.co.nz

Less clicking and more member savings on the new, faster yha.co.nz.

Backpacking just got easy as.

NZLISTINGS 4 Fort St. +64 9373 3471, enquiries@qsb.co.nz Surf ‘n’ Snow Backpackers 102 Albert St. +64 9363 8889, surfandsnow.co.nz The Brown Kiwi (BBH) 7 Prosford St, Ponsonby. +64 9378 0191, brownkiwi.co.nz YHA Auckland City Cnr City Rd & Liverpool St. +64 9309 2802, yha.co.nz YHA Auckland International 5 Turner St. +64 9302 8200, yha.co.nz

WELLINGTON Base Wellington 21-23 Cambridge Tce. +64 4801 5666 stayatbase.com Cambridge Hotel (BBH) 28 Cambridge Tce. +64 4385 8829 cambridgehotel.co.nz 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

60

Maple Lodge (BBH) 52 Ellice St. +64 4385 3771 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 Wellywood Backpackers 58 Tory St. 0508 00 58 58 Worldwide Backpackers (BBH) 291 The Terrace. +64 4802 5590, worldwidenz.co.nz YHA Wellington City 292 Wakefield St. +64 4801 7280 yha.co.nz

CHRISTCHURCH Around the World Backpackers 314 Barbadoes Street. +64 3365 4363 aroundtheworld.co.nz

6876, avoncitybackpackers.com 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 Kiwi House 373 Gloucester St. +64 3381 6645 kiwihouse.co.nz Marine Backpackers 26 Nayland St. +64 3326 6609 themarine.co.nz Point Break Backpackers (BBH) 99 Seaview Road. +64 3388 2050 pointbreakbackpackers.co.nz The Old Countryhouse (BBH) 437 Gloucester St. +64 3381 5504 oldcountryhousenz.com

At The Right Place 85 Bealey Street. +64 3366 1633 atrp.co.nz

Tranquil Lodge (BBH) 440 Manchester St. +64 3366 6500 tranquil-lodge.co.nz

Avon City Backpackers Worcester Street. +64 3389

Rucksacker Backpacker Hostel (BBH) 70 Bealey Ave.

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Vagabond Backpackers (BBH) 232 Worcester St. +64 3379 9677 vagabondbackpackers @hotmail.com

QUEENSTOWN Alpine Lodge (BBH) 13 Gorge Rd. +64 3442 7220, alpinelodge@xtra.co.nz Aspen Lodge (BBH) 11 Gorge Rd. +64 3442 9671, aspenlodge.co.nz Base Discovery Lodge Queenstown 49 Shotover St. +64 3441 1185, stayatbase.com Black Sheep Lodge (BBH/VIP) 13 Frankton Rd. +64 3442 7289, blacksheepbackpackers.co.nz Bungi Backpackers (VIP, BBH) 15 Sydney St. 0800 728 286, bungibackpackers.co.nz Butterfli Lodge (BBH) 62 Thompson St. +64 3442 6367, butterfli.co.nz Cardrona Alpine Resort Between Queenstown and Wanaka. +64 3443 7341,

@tnt_downunder cardrona.com Deco Backpackers (VIP, BBH) 52 Man St. +64 3442 7384, decobackpackers.co.nz 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 Queenstown Lodge Sainsbury Rd, Fernhill. 0800 756 343, queenstownlodge.co.nz Southern Laughter (BBH, VIP) 4 Isle St. 0800 728 448, southernlaughter.co.nz YHA Queenstown Central 48A Shotover Street. +64 3442 7400, yha.co.nz YHA Queenstown Lakefront 88-90 Lake Esplanade. +64 3442 8413 yha.co.nz

FIJILISTINGS FIJILISTINGS NADI & WEST

NORTH VITI LEVU

Aquarius Pacific Hotel +679 672 6000

Bethams Cottage +679 669 4132, bethams.com.fj

Beach Escape Villas +679 672 4442, beachscape@ connect.com.fj

Macdonalds Beach Cottages +679 669 4633

Cathay Hotel +679 666 0566, fiji4less.com

Morrison’s Beach Cottagess +679 669 4516, tipple@connect.com.fj

Horizon Beach Resort +679 672 2832, horizonbeachfiji.com Nadi Bay Resort Hotel +679 672 3599, fijinadibayhotel.com Nadi Down Town Backpackers Inn +679 670 0600, pacvalley@connect.com.fj Nadi Hotel +679 670 0000, ndht@connect.com.fj

SUVA Colonial Lodge +679 92 75248, sailevukaga@yahoo.co.nz Lami Lodge Backpackers +679 336 2240, volau@connect.com.fj Leleuvia Island Resort +679 331 9567, eleen@leleuvia.com Raintree Lodge +679 332 0562, raintreelodge.com Royal Hotel +679 344 0024 royal@connect.com.fj

YASAWA ISLANDS Awesome Adventures Fiji +679 675 0499awesomefiji.com Coconut Bay Resort +679 666 6644 coconutbay_fiji2002@yahoo.com

TRAVELLING ON TO FIJI?

TAVEUNI Albert’s Sunrise +679 333 7555 Matava Resort +679 330 5222, matava.com Reece’s Place +679 362 6319 Waisalima Beach Resort +679 738 9236, waisalima.com

MAMANUCA ISL Beachcomber Island Resort +679 666 1500, beachcomberfiji.com

mote ere.

Visit the re ds Fiji.

- it s all th n la Is a w sa ak , explore Ya ay k , e iv d el Chill, snork

dventures A e m o s e w A rs

for backpacketravellers tive and alterna rience the o expe

who want t

‘real Fiji’

Bounty Island Resort +679 666 6999, fiji-bounty.com

ISLAND HOPPING PASSES ISLA

Rau Kini’s Hostel +679 672 1959, rtkinihostel@connect.com.fj

C Complete Co freedom to explore the Yasawa Islands, including Beachcomber. Choose from m a 7, 14 or 21 day pass. Passes from $321

The Funky Fish Beach Resort +679 628 2333, funkyfishresort.com The Resort Walu Beach +679 665 1777, walubeach.com

CORAL COAST

Korovou Eco Tour Resort +679 666 6644 korovoultk@connect.com.fj

Beachouse +679 653 0500, fijibeachouse.com

Kuata Resort +679 666 6644

Mango Bay Resort +679 653 00690, mangobayresortfiji.com

Long Beach Backpackers Resort +679 666 6644

Pacific Safaris Club +679 345 0498, safariclub@connect.com.fj

Manta Ray Island +679 672 6351 mantarayisland@connect.com.fj

Rendezvous Dive Resort +679 628 4427, surfdivefiji.com

Nabua Lodge +679 666 9173 nabualodge@connect.com.fj

Robinson Crusoe +679 629 1999, robinsoncrusoeislandfiji.com

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

EASY FLEXIBLE PACKAGES Explore the real Fiji. From 4 to 11 nights.

Includes vessel transfers, accommodation, meals and activities. Packages from $410

ISLAND STAYPUTS A bit like survivor but a lot more fun! Strand d yourself yourse elf on one island for 3 days and 2 nights. If you can stand and the pain of coral lagoons and nd coconut palms then stay longer. Packages from $197 97

DIVE, DIVE, DIVEE A 5 day/4 night PADI or SSI open water course. Where better to learn to dive than in the crystal clear, warm waters of Fiji! Abundant fish life and encounters with sea turtles are common. Packages from $738 Plus heaps of other options.

Daily departures departures ffor all l pa packages and passes from Denarau Marina

BEQA LAGOON Fiji boasts multiple spectacular dive sites, but to really test your nerve, head to Beqa Lagoon, where the shark feeding dives play host to bull sharks and even the odd tiger.

info@awesomefiji.com

www.awesomefiji.com

Prices are ex Denarau, Fiji, in Australian dollars and valid for travel to 31 March 2012.

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TNT622- AAF2746

For info and bookings see your travel centre or contact us: phone 1800 007 129 or SKYPE awesomefiji

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OZWORK

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The learning curve Travellers with teaching qualifications have the chance to earn great money, while making a difference and seeing the country.

There are few jobs that allow travellers to practically walk into a well-paid position, improve their long-term career prospects and feel good about themselves at the same time – so teachers are quite a lucky bunch really.

“Rates of pay vary across each state and sector,” says Select Education’s Louise White. “Generally a casual teacher in Sydney could expect to earn $200-plus per day.”

And the reality of actually landing a job that pays so well shouldn’t be just a pipedream.

White says: “There is always a high demand for teachers across Australia, especially casual teachers in Sydney.”

But, as anyone who has already worked as a teacher should know, you need to make sure all your paperwork is in order first.

“To have your qualifications accessed by each state you are generally required to submit your CV, qualifications,

62

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transcripts, visa/passport, birth certificate and current police clearances,” says White.

Also, be aware that while it’s taken as a given that you will need to hold a full teaching qualification, such as a Bachelor of Education or an equivalent, Australia has no national curriculum, meaning the qualification requirements vary between the states.

If you’ve got the right qualifications and all your paperwork is in order, then by far the most important thing to have is a willingness to be flexible – you will be sent wherever cover is needed, which may mean commuting to the suburbs.

“In Sydney, we place teachers across a wide band of suburbs so teachers should be prepared to travel,” says White. “Along with a flexible attitude, they need to be prepared with resources as work is not always set.”

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ON THE JOB DONNA LOUISE MACRAE CAREER Teacher AGE 28 FROM Scotland Why teaching?

Wanting to do a job relating to my qualifications while on my one year holiday over here.

How did you get your job?

I contacted the agency and next day I started working.

Compare to home?

The children are similar but I need to get used to

the different curriculum.

How long do you plan to teach in Australia?

One year at this stage, but Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m looking at extending my visa to two years. If I can be sponsored I can work here for up to five.

Howâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the pay?

I am getting double the pay that I would receive in the UK in a private centre.

Recommend it?

Using an agency is really flexible, you meet loads of new people and the pay is good. Plus the kids are so inspiring, I love that.

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63

tntjobs.com.au B Confidential T: 07 38321023 M: 0430 146886 www.confidentialclub.com.au BConfidential is Brisbane’s premier gentlemens club bar and restaurant located close to central station in brisbane, female owned and operated providing a fun and safe work environment .

JOB OF THE WEEK: Dancers Location: Spring Hill Brisbane QLD Salary: Contractor $1000-$3000 per week Dancers for day and night shifts,very flexible rosters plenty of hours available and next day cash payments.We prefer to train our staff experience is not essential, good fun attitudes and a drive for success is required.

Lisa Boorer | 0430146886 | admin@confidentialclub.com.au

T: 02 8332 7501 www.tntdownunder.com

JOB OF THE WEEK: EDITORIAL RESEARCHERS Location: Sydney Salary: $30,000 - $35,000 (OTE $50K plus benefits)

TNT Publishing is a well-respected and long established publishing house. We are growing our Sydney office by recruiting editorial researchers to work on our existing titles.

Duties will include speaking to Companies to organise guides, supplements and features within the magazines. You need to be experienced on the telephone and be self-motivated to achieve targets. Ideally having knowledge of feature based articles would be advantageous.

TNT Publishing

Stuart Shirra | stuart@tntdownunder.com

TNT Publishing T: 02 8332 7501 www.tntdownunder.com TNT Publishing is a well-respected and long established London& Sydney publishing house.

We are growing our Sydney office by recruiting sales people to work on our existing titles which include the renowned TNT magazine The SA Times, South Africa Magazine and Australia & New Zealand Outlook.

JOB OF THE WEEK: Telesales Executive – B2B Location: Sydney Salary: $30,000 - $35,000 (OTE $50K plus benefits) Hard working sales people that enjoy working in a dynamic sales environment, hungry to earn money and develop their career. You need to have a proven telephone sales record and be self-motivated to achieve targets. Ideally having knowledge of feature based articles would be advantageous.

Sean Brett | seanb@tntdownunder.com

Looking for your next job? NEW JOBS ONLINE EVERY DAY

JOBS

www.salesfleet.com.au

Energy Advisor

Sales Representatives

We require motivated and self driven individuals to join our rapidly expanding direct sales team.

Have you ever wanted to make a difference in someone’s life? Here’s your chance…

Successful candidates will get the chance to represent one of Australia’s largest energy retail companies.

Sales Fleet is a labour hire company specialising in the management of Sales Contractors. We offer services in Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland and South Australia.

To be successful you will need:

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Experience is not essential, although will be a benefit.

We now require energetic Sales Contractors to work for an ongoing campaign representing one of the world’s largest charities.

You need to be sales confident, enthusiastic and have the drive to succeed. A supportive environment and comprehensive product training will help you to achieve your best.

By promoting Child Sponsorship, you will help make a difference to millions of people around the world. You will also have the potential to be well remunerated for your efforts.

Hours and working days are flexible.

Please register your interest by E-mailing your resume to register@salesfleet.com.au or call 0438 876 751.

Knickers at Five Dock Attractive high class escorts required!

Mysterious Sydney Escorts is a high class escort agency, featuring international selection of beautiful, sexy and exclusive escorts for all occasions. We are an upmarket escort agency catering for a distinguished clientele - discerning, stylish, and successful.

Our agency require exceptionally attractive staff of all nationalities for escort work in Sydney.

MASSEUSES REQUIRED Top $$$ to be earned renovated premises great working conditions female management

To apply for this position, you must be 18-35 years of age, social, outgoing, charming, beautiful with a positive attitude to life and enjoy having fun.

Contact details: www.mysteriousescorts.com.au Or call 0432 335 628

Please call 97128991 or 0403 824609 or 0442 533961 ANYTIME

Cleopatra’s gentlemans club

Ladies required for 6 star establishment in Sydney. Come and earn BIG DOLLARS in Sydney’s Western Suburbs busiest gentlemans club. Accommodation provided You will earn: $105 for 30 mins. $140 for 45 mins. $170 for 1 standard hour $190 per 1 VIP room hour $210 per 1 Cleopatra room hour $220 per 1 Mark Anthony room hour Visit our website for more details www.cleopatrasgentlemansclub.com.au email: cleopatrasgentlemansclub.@hotmail.com or phone 02 9609 6668 or 02 9609 7774. Only drug-free to apply.

BEHIND EACH SUCCESSFUL WOMEN - IS HERSELF!!!

FEMALE MASSEURS REQUIRED $115 p/hr

GOOD GIRLS GO TO HEAVEN!!

BAD GIRLS GO EVERYWHERE!!!

FEMALE MASSEURS REQUIRED $115 p/hr

Full training provided Immediate Start Flexible shifts Fun & friendly team

(02) 96990055 NIRVANA

400 Cleveland St, Surry Hills www.nirvanasydney.com

Full training provided Immediate Start Flexible shifts Fun & friendly team

(02) 9357 6145 AT MICHELLES

135 Bayswater Road, Rushcutters Bay www.atmichells.com

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MYTHBUSTERS WHY SO BLUE?

THIS WEEK’S QUIZ

SYDNEY

MYTH OF THE

The Sydney Harbour Bridge Q 1.is nicknamed the...?

Which of the following is Sydney’s Q 6.oldest suburb?

a) Big Steel b) Coathanger c) Crown Jewel d) Big Easy

a) Kingsford c) The Rocks

Which of the following is not a Q 2.Sydney beach?

What is the capital city of Australia?

Q 7.a) Adelaide

a) Dee Why Beach b) Why Mee Beach c) Manly d) Maroubra

b) Melbourne c) Sydney d) Canberra

star didn’t grow up in Sydney?

Q 3.a)Which Mel Gibson b) Nicole Kidman d) Russell Crowe

Q 4. Which of the following is Sydney’s biggest park? a) Sydney Park b) Hyde Park c) Centennial Park d) The Domain

a) Sex b) Sin c) Symbols d) Shackles

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AUSSIE-ISM “A BLUDGER”

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TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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ANAGRAM-ARAMA

This is typically an insult to describe someone who is lazy and out of work, probably living off the dole (government unemployment money) instead of finding work.

“That Barry is a bloody bludger”.

THIS WEEK IT’S...

CRAP CHRISTMAS PRESENTS 1. DUSK ON ACIDNESS 2. WORDS SOB CROOK 3. SADLY BOUNCES 4. DEARER, SERENE WIT ANSWERS: 1. Socks and undies 2. Crossword book 3. Susan Boyle CD 4. Reindeer sweater

b) The Matrix d) The Great Gatsby

SUDOKU PUZZLE 2

a) The G-String Divas b) The Bondi Boxers c) The Bra Boys d) The Commando Crew

Q 9. Sydney is nicknamed the city of...?

Q 5. Which movie was not filmed in Sydney? a) Chopper c) Happy Feet

What’s the name of south Sydney’s Q 8.infamous surf gang?

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

c) Eric Bana

b) Bondi d) Woolloomooloo

WEEK Why are the Blue Mountains so blue?

In Australia, they like to keep names simple. The long road beside the ocean is the Great Ocean Road.

The bridge over Sydney’s harbour is the Harbour Bridge. And the Blue Mountains are so-called because, well, when you look at them, they appear rather cobalt in hue. This is because there are rather a lot of eucalypt trees in the area that give off a fine mist of minty-scented oil, which you can smell in the air. And when you’ve got that much mist, it becomes visible in the sunlight as a hazy blue cloud, which hangs over entire valleys. So there you go...

NEW er ck Backpail fares a Read<y> rADL $49 MEL $125 ADL > < D SY $165 LICE A > < L AD $165 DAR > < E ALIC $219 R E P > < ADL $299 PER SYD <>

The most relaxed way to see the vast Australian Outback is by train. â&#x20AC;˘ Stretch your legs in your spacious recliner seat

Alice Springs

â&#x20AC;˘ Chill out in the lounge* â&#x20AC;˘ Make friends, have a snack or dinner in the licensed cafe/bar â&#x20AC;˘ Freshen up with on-board shower facilities*

Darwin

ULURU

Perth

Adelaide

Sydney

Melbourne

Visit greatsouthernrail.com.au/backpackers or book with your licensed travel agent.

Terms and conditions apply. All Backpacker ReadyRail fares are based on Red Service Day/Nighter Seat Service and are available to members of recognised backpacker organisations for bookings made from 1 April 2011 for travel until 31 March 2012. All fares are as stated and only available online, also available in opposite direction. All fares include a fuel price surcharge.

Prices are subject to change without notice, available for instant purchase. Non-refundable. *Shower and lounge facilities not available on The Overland, Melbourne <> Adelaide.

An additional lounge access charge of $10 for 1-sector, $15 for 2-sector or $25 for 3-sector is required and payable onboard. Travel Agent License No.TTA164190. GSR16545/TNT/einstein

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