TNT Magazine: Australia by TNT MAGAZINE

Feb Fe F eb 13-19 2012 Issue 668 tntdownunder.com

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ANDREW WESTBROOK EDITOR editor@tntdownunder.com

EDITOR’S LETTER Get yourself a feather boa and cover yourself in glitter, because Mardi Gras has arrived in Sydney! If you’re gay, well, brace yourself for a three-week non-stop party. And if you’re not, then fear not, as it’s still one of Australia’s biggest and most colourful festivals, which you don’t want to miss. If you’re in Melbourne, meanwhile, make sure you get along to the backpackers expo and say hello to us. See p54 for info.

THIS WEEK OZ DIARY

MUSIC & FILM

COMPETITION

CELEB GOSSIP

NEWS

SPORT

TRAVEL

LISTINGS NSW

LISTINGS QUEENSLAND

LISTINGS VIC

LISTINGS NT

LISTINGS WA

LISTINGS TASMANIA

LISTINGS SA

LISTINGS NEW ZEALAND

LISTINGS FIJI

WORK

TRIVIAL PURSUITS

FEATURES PRIDES OF MARCH

Sydney’s Mardi Gras festival has begun, so we show you where to get down

SHORT CUTS

We chat to the founder of the largest short film festival in the world, Tropfest

WEST SIDE GLORY

Exploring Tasmania’s west side in all of its rugged, untouched glory

DUNE LANDING We discover Dubai’s cultural side, without having to break the bank

38 TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

OZDIARY EDITORIAL Editor Andrew Westbrook Staff writer Alex Harmon Intern Leigh Livingstone Contributor Ian Neubauer

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

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THE MAIN EVENT TROPFEST

[THE DOMAIN, SYDNEY] Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this year’s Tropfest promises to deliver another helping of top-class talent. With a slight twist for 2012’s event, entries to the world’s largest short film festival must include a Tropfest signature item – the ‘lightbulb’. Productions by 16 finalists will be screened in Sydney’s Domain this Sunday (February 19), for free, but get there early because a crowd of 150,000 film buffs is expected to show up. A celebrity panel will be judging the shorts, with the winner announced on the night. There’ll also be live links to outdoor locations across Australia. Get your popcorn at the ready. See p16 for more. tropfest.com/au FREE

RIVERBOATS MUSIC FESTIVAL [ECHUCA-MOAMA]

DISCOVERY DAY [LORD HOWE ISLAND]

WORLD THEATRE FESTIVAL [BRISBANE]

Under towering red gums on the banks of the Murray River, this festival promises music in a true Aussie setting. Watch the paddle steamers glide by as you listen to tunes from the likes of Lanie Lane and Tex Perkins. A one-day Friday ticket costs from $25.

Lord Howe Island has become one of Oz’s most popular tourist destinations since it was discovered in 1788. Join the local celebrations, which include a traditional island fish fry, followed by events including a palm tree climb.

Always fancied yourself a bit of a thespian? Then head to this 10-day festival which celebrates productions from across the globe. Expect the unexpected, as well as the surprising and appalling, as you watch theatre in the making. Impressive stuff.

$25

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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February 17-19 Aquatic Reserve, Echuca riverboatsmusic.com.au

FREE

February 18 Visitor Centre, Lord Howe Island visitnsw.com/events/lord-howeisland-discovery-day-celebration

$10

February 16-26 Powerhouse Theatre, Brisbane worldtheatrefestival.com

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Mardi blast Except for San Francisco, Sydney has the biggest gay scene in the world, and its annual three-week party season has just got going WORDS ALEX HARMON

Just like Vegas, in the gay world, everything gets bigger, brighter and more fabulous as the years go by. The Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras started as a protest march in 1978 when a bunch of brave homosexuals marched the streets of Sydney in commemoration of the Stonewall Riots in New York City. Fifty-four of those people were arrested, and then named and shamed in the newspapers (at a time when homosexuality was illegal, meaning many of them lost their jobs), after the police fought with protesters to breakup the event. Today, the Mardi Gras is not just about politics. It’s as much a celebration of diversity, a chance for people of all ages, 6

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sexual persuasions and races to exert their pride in a glorious stream of colour, dance, floats, glitter, humour and music. This year is extra special because the cream of the queer crop, the prodigal daughter of Mardi Gras, the irreplaceable Miss Kylie Minogue, is returning to the festival. She is the sensation that last year I called a “gay Christmas miracle” if she were to perform. And now she has made those wishes come true. It’s been 14 years since she was last at Mardi Gras and, because she’s celebrating 25 years as a performer, she’s decided to give something back to the fans who have kept her ‘afloat’ all these years. But getting back to Mardi Gras’ roots, where will you find your Mardi

Gras summer homo-romance? There are plenty of places, you simply have to know where to look. Just be careful – with Sydney’s metrosexual-looking blokes and Lisbeth Salander-loving Tomboy girls, you could mistakenly meet the queer of your dreams and then be introduced to their heterosexual other half. There is plenty going on. Not content with just a parade to mark the historic occasion, the Mardi Gras now lasts for over three weeks. It kicked off on Sunday, but with the best to come, you are still able to make the most of this wonderful festival – in one of the gayest cities in the world. Read on to find out some of the best shows and events worth seeing...

THE PARADE The event: Less of a protest nowadays, and more a celebration of diversity, this is the one event you would be crazy to miss. It’s the biggest gay and lesbian pride march in the world and it’s a chance for people of all identities to dress up (or down) and watch the two-hour long parade. More than 9,000 people make their way down Oxford and Flinders streets in a glittery, rainbow extravaganza with some political mockery thrown in (expect a few giant Julia Gillards). As they do every year, the 200 or so dykes on bikes will lead the parade, roaring their way to Moore Park. In tow, regular participants such as the Asian marching boys, the Bondi lifesavers, the police, the ‘Parents and Friends of Lesbians and Gays’ (PFLAG) and more. And, of course, not forgetting ‘our Kylie’. Make sure you get down to Oxford Street early because this is going to be madness. So get your costume ready, find a milk crate to stand on, and cheer your lungs out. When: Saturday, March 3, from 7.45pm Cost: Free to watch (but arrive early for a good vantage point) Where: Begins on Oxford Street, near Hyde Park Info: mardigras.org.au

THE AFTER PARTY Don’t forget the real point of Mardi Gras

The prodigal daughter

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Photos: Getty Images, Tourism NSW, Sydney Mardi Gras/Ann-Marie Calilhanna

The event: More than 15,000 revellers are expected to attend the official Mardi Gras ‘after party’, that begins when (and where) the parade finishes. They’re calling it Mardigrasland, so expect an adult Disneyland with all sorts of thrills and spills. This year on the dancefloor you’ll be entertained by the famous drag queen RuPaul, plus Sam Sparro, D.E. Experience, Sneaky Sound System, Chicane, Horse Meat Disco and heaps of local DJs and acts. And yes, with great pleasure we can finally confirm that Mardi Gras sweetheart Kylie Minogue will be dusting off the hotpants and strutting her stuff on stage. Yes, we should be so lucky! Also, George Michael just happens to be touring Australia around then ... When: Saturday, March 3, from 10pm Cost: From $129 Where: Entertainment Quarter, Moore Park Info: mardigras.org.au

MARDI GRAS FESTIVAL BAR The event: The Oxford Hotel is the official Mardi Gras festival bar for the threeweek event. With four floors of action and events every night, you’d better make it your new ‘local’. Entertainment includes an Amy Winehouse impersonator – the uncanny “Amy Housewine” – singing classics such as, “If I Only Had Cocaine”. There are also male strippers, DJs, burlesque performers, and a comedic love story about Grindr (the gay dating app), to name a few. When: Until March 4 Cost: Varies Where: 134 Oxford Street, Darlinghurst Info: theoxfordhotel.com.au

The high-speed dykes on bikes always get the parade rolling

MARDI GRAS FILM FESTIVAL

Enjoy three weeks of arts and performance events in the run-up to the parade finale

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The event: For two weeks in Sydney, you can catch 90 short or feature films with a gay twist. Everything from coming-out stories and sci-fi, to Palestinian lesbians and a documentary about an Australian group who are trying to ‘cure’ people of their homosexuality. The opening night film is Dirty Girl, about an unexpected friendship between a popular schoolgirl and a lonely gay boy. If you’re planning on becoming a cinephile, get yourself a 10-film flexi-pass to save yourself some cash. Films are screened all over Sydney, including Parramatta, Newtown, Moore Park, Marrickville and Paddington. When: 16 February – 1 March Cost: From $18 Where: Various locations Info: mgff.queerscreen.com.au

THE YEAR OF MAGICAL WANKING The event: A play about, yes, you guessed it, wanking. The show also explores themes such as truth telling, identity and, okay, fisting. This play, direct from Ireland, had tongues wagging over there as it followed one man on his soul-searching journey towards self-acceptance and happiness. We can only imagine this is a “you gotta love yourself before you can love anyone else” kinda show. If this type of experimental, scandalous theatre sounds like it’s for you, then book fast because tickets will go fast (and hard). Contact the Sydney Theatre Company for bookings. When: February 14-18 Cost: $29 Where: Walsh Theatre, Dawes Point Info: sydneytheatre.org.au

Maybe take the other street...

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IN VOGUE: SONGS OF MADONNA

LANEWAY PARTY

DIAMONDS ARE FOR TREVOR The event: Performing the hits of popicon Shirley Bassey, one of Sydney’s biggest drag queens, Trevor Ashley and his 14-piece band, brings you this two-act concert. Audiences will be entertained with feathers, sequins and over-the-top hair pieces. Hits such as “Big Spender”, “Goldfinger” and, of course, “Diamonds are Forever”, will be sung as Trevor tells the story of Shirley’s life from working-class Wales to pop superstardom. When: Friday, March 2 Cost: From $56 Where: State Theatre, 49 Market Street Info: ticketmaster.com.au 10

The event: The Mardi Gras organisers are clever. Instead of letting all the fun that’s been had in this alley over the event’s years be free and unrestricted, they’ve created a party in the laneway and are charging you to get in. However, it sounds like a lot of fun. It’s in the Hill Street laneway between two of Sydney’s coolest pubs, The Flinders and The Beresford, with drop-in DJs and pop-up performances. On the decks you can expect spinners such as Sveta, Adam Love, Mark Alsop, Alex Taylor and Kate Monroe. The event kicks off when the Official After Party finishes, when everyone can be seen scrambling back to Oxford Street. This way you can keep the dream alive until Sunday night, which is the official end of the Mardi Gras season. When: Sunday, March 4, from 12pm Cost: $39 Where: Hill Street Laneway, Surry Hills Info: mardigras.org.au

The event: For one night only, Michael Griffiths will become Madonna. Watch as he strikes a pose and takes audiences on a journey of the life and times of the (other) Queen of Pop. We dare say he won’t be lip-synching as he hits the piano and performs hits such as “Express Yourself”, “Get into the Groove” and “Beautiful Stranger”. He was the hit of the Adelaide Cabaret Festival, so we’re hopeful that he’s more rhythmic than Madge at the Super Bowl. When: Friday, February 24 Cost: From $28 Where: Slide Nightclub, Darlinghurst Info: ticketek.com.au

MARDI GRAS POOL PARTY The event: Kicking off at 2pm, one of the wildest and definitely the wettest of the Mardi Gras parties will commence, going well into the evening. You can strip down to your swimwear and dive into the pool or relax on the cabana lounges with a cocktail while listening to some of Sydney’s hottest DJs. Making a splash on the DJ decks will be Alex Taylor, Sandi Hotrod, Scott Tanner, Dan Murphy and Jake Kilby. A great chance to check out Sydney’s most fabulous swimming pool. When: Monday, February 27. From 2pm Cost: $49 Where: Ivy Pool Bar, 330 George Street Info: mardigras.org.au

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DRAG RACES AT BONDI BEACH The event: If you can’t imagine drag queens running in heels along Bondi Beach, then you need to check out this event. This year’s competition is meant to be bigger and fiercer than ever, and it’s not just ankle-breaking sprinting. There’s also the ‘Dainty Dune Dash’ and the ‘Handbag Discus’. We’d also like to see the ‘Fake-Boob Shotput’, but that could get ugly. This hilarious event is free and something that is unique to Sydney. Races begin at 5pm and there’s sure to be lots of five o’clock shadows as the sun sets over Bondi Beach. When: Friday, March 2. Cost: Free Where: Bondi Beach Info: mardigras.org.au

Game on: The Bondi drag races

HARBOUR PARTY The event: This year’s Harbour Party theme is ‘Cool Change’, which is a weather prediction the event doesn’t want to hear. Having said that, regardless of the weather, these parties are all about wearing little and partying hard. Mrs Macquaries Point is going to be awash with revellers on her shores and boats pulling up full of gatecrashers. It’s one of the most popular events of the season and features Kate Monroe, Troy Cox, Olivian DJ, Lee Dagger (Bimbo Jones) on the decks. Plus, the view of the Harbour isn’t too bad either. NEXT WEEK When: Saturday, February 25 Cost: From $119 Arts fever: It’s Where: Mrs Macquaries Point festival season in Adelaide Info: mardigras.org.au

Dance with a view at Harbour Party 12

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THE GREY FILM REVIEW by Andrew Westbrook STARRING: Liam Neeson, Dermot Mulroney, Frank Grillo | CERT: CTC | 120mins | Out Feb 16

THE VOW FILM REVIEW STARRING: Rachel McAdams, Channing Tatum, Sam Neill | PG | 104mins | Out now

A woman survives a car accident to awake with five years of memory loss. After a few obstacles (cue creepy ex-boyfriend), she tries to fall in love with her husband again. Think The Notebook but swap dementia for amnesia. Tatum is a little wooden as the poor musician, but McAdams has great range as the vego artist who time-warps into a bacon-loving Stepford Wife. Guys: steer clear, this film is purposely released in time for Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day to make you feel inadequate. AH 14

ack for the

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If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve seen the trailor for The Grey, you might be quick to dismiss it as merely Taken, with wolves. Yet that would be a hasty misjudgement to make of this tough, gruelling film that is a cut above the usual action fare. Set in the bleak Alaskan wilderness, Neeson, continuing his reinvention as an unshakeable B-movie hardman with a tortured soul, is based on an oil station, where his job is shooting the wolves that sometimes venture towards the workers. But not long after we meet the characters, Neeson and a bunch of drillers go down in a plane crash in the middle of nowhere, and, as the howls begin and the glowing eyes appear, they soon realise that cold and lack of food are the least of their worries. From then on, the disparate group set out in search of rescue and to escape the increasingly-bloodthirsty pack of wolves, while the audience settles into the ever-familiar game of guessing who will be next to get picked off. Yet this is not just another predictable man vs wild tale. The natural surroundings are used to great effect, from the blinding white light to the impenetrable darkness, and from the deafening storms to the yet more deafening silence. Neeson delivers another top notch performance while the taut action represents a real return to form from recently-rubbish director Joe Carnahan (The A-Team, Smoking Aces). Filled with deft philosophical touches and surprising sensitivity, The Grey will stay with you. GOOD FOR: An old school tale of survival with a touch of poetry to add some class

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SING-A-LONG-A SOUND OF MUSIC

DON’T

MISS!

MUSICAL

See the classic movie remastered for the big screen. Admit it, you know the words – so join everyone as they singa-long! This production is an audience participation event where the celebrity host will warm you up, teach you the actions and judge a costume parade. Feb 24-26, State Theatre, Sydney. $52 ticketmaster.com.au

JURASSIC LOUNGE

SCIENCE OF SEX APPEAL

ART & MUSIC

TALK

The genius idea from 2011 of combining DJs, booze and a dinosaur museum is back this summer. Every Tuesday night the Australian Museum in Sydney opens its doors for after-hours sessions of art, live music, drinking and perhaps some enlightened conversation. $15 at the door gets you entry and a drink.

Forget predictable dinners and flowers, if you really want to impress your date this Valentine’s Day, let’s talk about science, baby. One of Sydney Uni’s psychology lecturers will lead a talk on the ‘Science of Sex Appeal’. Everything from promiscuity in rats to love letters of the past. At least there’ll be none of those Hallmark couples in the room.

Tuesdays until April, College St, Sydney jurassiclounge.com

Tue Feb 14, State Library of NSW. Free sl.nsw.gov.au

GROOVIN’ THE MOO Stuck in regional Australia, jealous of all the summer festivals that hit the capital cities? Well, now the cow is coming to you. The annual ‘Moo festival has a stellar line-up with Public Enemy, Chiddy Bang, Kaiser Chiefs, City and Colour, Adrian Lux, The Maccabees and Aussie club favourites the Purple Sneakers DJs – just to name a few. The festival is hitting Bendigo VIC (May 5), Townsville QLD (May 6), Maitland NSW (May 12), Canberra ACT (May 13) and Bunbury WA (May 19). Groovy! Tickets on sale from February 14 moshtix.com.au

MONSOONS BAR DARWIN

ROLLER DISCO ROUNDHOUSE

PUB

DISCO

A popular backpacker haunt in tropical Darwin where you’re sure to get a little sticky. You may be dancing along to cheesy pop or ogling the bar staff who are also bar-top dancers, but one thing’s for sure, you’re gonna have a good time. And by day it’s a wholesome pub with quality food.

Dust off those roller-skates because it’s four wheels of retro at UNSW’s Roundhouse. The place will be transformed into a roller-rink complete with neon lights, 80s hip-hop and drink prices of yesteryear. Don’t forget your spandex, tube socks and leg warmers.

46 Mitchell St, Darwin, NT

Sat Feb 18. The Roundhouse, Sydney

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Are you ever desperate for a plug socket to charge your phone or iPod? We are, especially when out on the road, which is why we’ve got hold of three excellent solar chargers to give away to you. Specifically for iPhones and iPods, these chargers are our new best friends. For your chance to win one, follow the instructions at tntdownunder.com/competitions.html TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

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John Polson The founder of Tropfest tells us about the huge celebrations planned for the 20th anniversary of the festival, and how God is a fan of short films And they’re a level playing field – anyone can enter Tropfest, which is important because it means the talent rises to the top, not just the people with the most money or the best contacts. They are also incredibly enjoyable for the audience. How many movies, 10 minutes in, do you go “this is shit”?

Polson praying for good weather It’s the festival’s 20th anniversary this year. Anything special planned? It’s going to be a massive weekend. As well as an opening night party for Trop’s nearest and dearest on the Friday, we are launching Tropfest Roughcut on Saturday, at the Art Gallery of NSW. It’s an all-day seminar exploring creativity and collaboration and how they relate to storytelling onscreen. Charles Randolph, one of Hollywood’s most sought-after writers and producers (The Interpreter, Love And Other Drugs), is taking the lead, and the rest of the line-up is pretty incredible, too. Get your tickets soon from tropfest.com/au. How did Tropfest start? It was 1993, I was 27. I was an actor but had a burning ambition to be a filmmaker. I made a movie largely set at the Tropicana Café in Darlinghurst, so I asked the owner if I could screen it there. I put the word out and 200 people turned up on the night. People who heard there was going to be a screening, I think they were impacted by the fact that a lot of it was shot in the café and they probably saw the film crew around. Maybe they were even in the background of some shots. They all showed up to watch it – at the end of the night I said ‘let’s have a festival’. 16

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Are you surprised by how much the event has grown? I find it amazing that the Tropfest audience continues to boom! Who knew this little Australian idea could speak to so many people around the globe? How are the finalists, the films shown on the day, selected? Every film entered into Tropfest is watched by a number of panels of industry professionals in a series of knock-out style rounds. It’s a pretty robust process that allows us to judge which films really should make it through to the finals, regardless of individual personal opinion. How nervous do you get about the weather on the big day? Bad weather? Never! Honestly, every year we find ourselves keeping everything crossed for clear skies. I always say to myself, ‘I hope God loves short films as much as we all do’. What makes short films so important? Shorts are their own medium, not just minifeature films. You can explore ideas in shorts that you could never do in 100 minutes. They’re also a critical stepping-stone to longer formats for filmmakers, so they’re important in that way.

What’s the ethos of the festival? At Tropfest, the idea we try to live by is that everyone has a story to tell, and with the expanding world of technology, it is becoming easier for just anyone to tell it. Whether it is on cheap mobile phones, digital cameras or 70mm, the possibilities are endless. But mostly, for me, short films are unique in their ability to explore ideas that might have remained unexplored without them. Who do you think is the biggest success story, talent-wise, to come out of Tropfest? There are numerous successful and talented filmmakers in professional careers who have come up through the ranks of Tropfest. We don’t try to take credit for their talent, but we feel like our platform exposes them in a way that is not possible anywhere else. Some of our Tropfest alumni include Sam Worthington, Joel Edgerton, Clayton Jacobson, Kieran DarcySmith, Nash Edgerton, Elissa Down and, of course, Wilfred, which started as a little Tropfest and is now a big TV series in the US. Other than Tropfest, what are you working on at the moment? Lots of things, although Tropfest globally is taking a lot of my time, which is kind of fun. I’m also working on a city-based collaborative, currently called Sydney. We have locked in 12 directors for the film and it’s a pretty impressive list of Who’s Who in the Australian industry. We’re in the process of planning the shoot which is happening this year. Tropfest’s main event takes place at The Domain, Sydney, on Sunday, February 19, kicking off at 11am. tropfest.com

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Looking for something different, something away from the madness of the east coast carousel? Well, you can’t beat Tasmania when it comes to escaping the everyday. Like an unspoilt playground for abundant wildlife, with scenery unlike anywhere else on Earth, Australia’s Apple Isle is not a place to skip past on your trip Down Under. It’s a place on the edge of not just Australia, but the world, a place which might be small in size but is most definitely big on experiences. Which is why TNT T has teamed up with a whole bunch of our Tassie friends to put together this fantastic package for one lucky reader and a mate.

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Tours Tasmania, valued at $240. SCENIC TRANSFER: Travel from Launceston to Hobart with Tours Tasmania, valued at $70. HOBART HOSTEL: Two nights accommodation at Central City Backpackers, valued at $138. CAR HIRE: Two days car hire with Avis, valued at $127. PORT ARTHUR: Bronze day pass and ghost tour at Port Arthur Historic Sites, valued at $110. MONA: Day pass to Hobart’s Museum of Old and New Art, valued at $40. MT WELLINGTON DESCENT: With Under Down Under, valued at $140. HOBART HOSTEL: One nights accommodation at The Pickled Frog, valued at $67. EAST COAST: Two day/one night Hobart to Launceston tour with Under Down Under, valued at $560. Competition closes midnight AEST Sunday, March 11, 2012. Log on to tntdownunder.com for T&Cs and to enter.

WIN and Discover Tasmania with this eight-day adventure for two

worth over

$3,300

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CELEBGOSSIP

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#Dontwasteyourtime

GAGA’S SOCIOPATH NETWORK

[USA]

LEANNE IS BORN AGAIN, STILL DEAD INSIDE [USA]

When we heard about Kim Kardashian wanting to start a bible group, we laughed. LeAnne Rimes, on the other hand, decided to apply for head pastor in the church of Kardashian. Maybe LeAnne is a good Christian girl who wants to save Kim, maybe she saw the light, who knows. Me thinks she saw the dollar signs. I mean, who really gives a toss about hillbilly Rimes anymore? Even her anorexic battles barely make headlines. But there she was, attending Sunday mass at the Life Change Community Church with Kim by her side. The key’s in the name, really. When you’re down and out and can’t get a break, seek the services of a Kardashian, double that up with a prayer 20

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Bird is the Word: M.I.A made headlines with her halftime Super Bowl performance last week by flipping the bird at the audience. Those watching on TV missed the incident as screens were blurred as she stuck up her finger and the NFL have since apologised. Amazing that with one finger she was able to upstage Madonna. Still, we don’t see what the big deal is. It was no Janet Jackson nipple slip.

group and voila! You’ve got our attention. Now go away please.

FOUR’S THE LIVELY SCORE

[USA]

Blake Lively wants to set the record straight: she’s no ho. I mean, no one implied that she was... but you know what they say about Catholic girls. (No, not you Kim). They love to confess. Anyway, Blake was interviewed by ELLE Magazine and when asked

about her love life she said: “I’ve had four boyfriends in my whole life. I’ve never been with anyone that’s not a boyfriend. I didn’t have a boyfriend until I was 17.” She’s really drilling home the facts there. We get it. Still, if it’s true, it’s an impressive track record considering we know she’s dated Penn Badgley (her Gossip Girl co-star), Leonardo DiCaprio and Ryan Reynolds. So, three out of four are Hollywood leading men. She’s like the James Cameron of daters. Boyfriend number five will probably require 3D glasses.

Photos: Getty Images

Move over Zuckerburg, Miss Lady Gaga has figured out the algorithm for social networking success. Gaga has launched a networking site called LittleMonsters.com which allows members to spend hours talking about Gaga, reading about Gaga, uploading pictures of Gaga and as the site says, communicating with Gaga (read: chatting to her middle-aged publicist). When you’re the Queen of Twitter (no literally, she has 19 million followers and a crown made out of hashtags) as well as YouTube (a crown made out of bread), do you really need to bother? Hopefully it has the success of other tween-friendly sites like Friendster and will fade away into obscurity once its users are old enough to get the parental lock off their computers.

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TWEETS OF THE WEEK @LadyGaga “Really wanna get a new tattoo. Can’t decide where. Was thinking on inside of my forearm under the peace sign. Whatcha think?” @JoanRivers “California is insane! Illegal to smoke a cigarette in public but if you get a note from your doctor you can smoke pot! Huh?” @MelB “Omg just saw a pic of all the snow in Uk, wish we could pop over and build a snow man with the family, then dive into our hot Sydney pool!”

Annie Whore is the working title

STEP INTO MY TRAILER

@BrianMcFadden “What do Australia and McDonald’s have in common? They are both fronted by red headed clowns”

[USA]

The Inception man-child Joseph Gordon Levitt has done what anyone who wants to bed Scarlett Johansson would do. He has become a director. And his first move as director? To cast himself alongside Scar-Jo in a romantic comedy. Seriously, could he be any more desperate? He’s like a lovesick teenager who’s been given a camcorder. Even Woody Allen has more subtlety. While no word on the plotline has been revealed, Joseph’s publicist has described it as a “modern day Don Juan and his journey to become less of a selfish dick”. Look, the kid might have talent, we’ll have to wait and see how the film, which is still untitled, turns out – that’s if it does. I’m putting my $16 on there being no film and Joseph is just pulling a creepy neighbour from American Beauty stunt.

TAYLOR’S NOT LES-MIS, JUST MISERABLE

[UK]

Expect a new album from Taylor Swift soon, because she’s been dumped again. In fact, this dumping happened so quickly I didn’t even realise she was in a relationship. According to Hollywood Life, Taylor was dating British actor Eddie Redmayne, whom she met on her audition for Les Miserables. I think she decided that a British boyfriend surely wouldn’t break up with her like John Mayer, Joe Jonas, Taylor Lautner (and the list goes on) so quickly did. Things were going so well for little Miss Swift-hands until she wasn’t cast in ‘The Poor Ones’ (which is a surprise really, she’s got the mood down-pat). Then Eddie decided that she wasn’t worth the longdistance phone calls and said “cheerio”.

@LilyAllen “I wish that Net A Porter had a “might look alright on a short fat person” section on their website. Would save me a LOT of time” @LizHurley “Wow. Just discovered that while the rest of the world talks ‘drivel’.... Australians talk ‘dribble’!!! How in God’s name did that happen?!” @RainnWilson “Dreamworks should market “The Help’ merchandise, like Miss Minny’s Shit Pies”

I’m not gonna let you finish...

But you know, while Hollywood says it was the distance, I say it’s the Jennifer Aniston curse: she’s annoying.

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

MADS’ BRO NEEDS MORE THAN A PRAYER [USA]

I really don’t want to talk about Madonna’s public Yoga session at the Super Bowl. In fact, I want those eight minutes of her dancing like a S&M range G.I Joe figurine back. Getting to the point, Madonna claims to be a family woman, but did you know she has a homeless brother who she allegedly refuses to speak to? Anthony Ciccone, 55, basically lives under a bridge in Michigan and claims Mads refuses to speak to him. But that didn’t stop a radio station from driving Anthony interstate so they could take a photo of him in the parking lot outside the stadium where Madonna was performing. Anthony got $183 for the stunt, which is more than he’s ever got from trying to cash-in on being her bro.

I have a talent crush on Ryan Gosling. I think he’s fantastic... and he’d be nice afterwards

Nobody asked how far you wanted to take your crush, Daniel Radcliffe

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SIMPSONS BANNED [IRAN]

It’s something we’ve always suspected – The Simpsons are to blame for corroding children’s morals. Dolls based on the yellow characters are being targeted by Tehran officials in a fight against ‘Western intoxication’. Barbie dolls have also been banned, but Spider-Man figures are still welcome in Iran, because they battle for the oppressed.

FACEBOOK HIGH [ITALY]

Don’t cut your internet café session short – apparently spending time on social networking sites is good for us. Researchers in Milan claim logging on to Facebook and Twitter gives users a natural buzz, leaving us feeling relaxed. They wired up students’ brains to monitor their reactions when surfing social sites, finding increased levels of excitement, relaxtion and even arousal.

Law and orca: For the first time in history, a US judge has listened to a case by PETA, who claim whales at Sea World are treated like slaves, forced to live in tanks and perform daily. The lawsuit names five killer whales as plaintiffs. Sea World’s lawyer, Theodore Shaw, said it defied common sense. “Neither orcas nor any other animal were included in the, ‘We the people...’ when the Constitution was adopted,” he said.

Hot Water Beach, New Zealand

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www.kiwiexperience.com Terms and conditions: Discount valid for bookings on the Funky Chicken and Awesome passes only. Awesome at $60 is only applicable when booking Funky Chicken. Discounted rates apply to standard brochured rates on speciﬁed passes only. Bookings must be made between 20 January 2012 – 01 March 2012. Standard 12 month travel validity applies. Offer not valid in conjunction with any other offer excluding the Day Trip 5% discount. Kiwi Experience reserves the right to withdraw this offer at anytime and without notice. Prices are in Australian dollars. Standard Kiwi Experience travel and booking terms and conditions apply. KX971-01/12-AUD

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THIS WEEK Photos: Getty Images

IN NUMBERS 23 Homeless chic

THE AMAZING FLOOD

IN BED WITH HOBOS

Contestants in the French version of The Amazing Race were forced to reroute when they were sent into floodravaged parts of New South Wales. The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;racersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; were heading towards Lightning Ridge, unaware of road closures and flash flooding dangers along the way. Locals in the town of Gunnedah complained that contestants were flagging down cars and generally causing chaos.

A Dutch company is selling a duvet cover that looks like a cardboard box with proceeds going to charity. The firm, known as Snurk, said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;It lets you sleep under a cardboard box so a homeless person doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to.â&#x20AC;? The cover is worth $55AUD with part of the proceeds going to charity, The Big Issue. Homeless activists say the marketing of the duvet is exploiting homeless people.

[AUSTRALIA]

[THE NETHERLANDS]

Hours a Taiwanese man played video games at an internet cafĂŠ before dying in his seat from an existing heart condition

Height, in centimetres, of a Nepalese man who claims to be the shortest in the world. Experts are en route to verify this.

Age, in years, of a tub of lard a German man found in his home. Authorities deemed the lard perfectly edible.

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

SPORTNEWS

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Show me the money!

REAL WIN SOMETHING

ACE IN A HOLE Former world number one tennis player Arantxa Sánchez-Vicario has claimed she has lost her £38m fortune thanks to alleged mismanagement by her parents. In a tell-all book called Arantxa, Vamos!, the Spaniard, who won four Grand Slam tournaments in her prime, has stated that her parents always controlled her prize

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Cap out? With just four months to go until the European Championships in Poland and Ukraine, England are in crisis, following the removal of their captain, John Terry, and the resulting resignation of their manager, Fabio Capello. The Italian, 65, who earned £6m/year coaching the national side despite largely being blamed for the disaster that was the last World Cup, quit after refusing to accept the FA’s decision to strip Terry of the captaincy, pending his trial for allegedly racist behaviour. Hanging in the wings is Harry Redknapp, newly-rejuvenated after being acquitted of tax evasion charges. It’s suggested he might take the job on a part-time basis, at least at first. However, with just one friendly booked in before the Euros kick off, against Holland later this month, the pressure will be on.

money and that after she retired, she discovered it had gone. She said: “My parents left me with nothing and now I am indebted to the [tax authorities] and I will not be quiet. Today I am without resources.” In the book, Sánchez-Vicario wrote that her father would always look after her money, simply giving her a monthly allowance. She said: “I never questioned the way my father managed my money. I have been a victim. I was duped.” She explained how she only discovered the situation when she retired, in 2002. “The surprise came,” she wrote, “then the disappointment. After a career full of successes and therefore winnings, they left me with nothing.” The tennis ace’s mother has since hit back, telling reporters the accusations are lies designed to “hurt and humiliate us”.

WESTWOOD: ‘MUM MADE ME APOLOGISE’ World number three golfer Lee Westwood has been forced to issue an apology, by his mum, after being caught on camera swearing. Westwood could be heard saying, “oh, holy shit,” after a tee shot at the Qatar Masters. He later tweeted: “Sorry about swearing on the 16th tee. Came off like a rocket and thought it was going further! Wash my mouth out! Perils of live tv!”

BIGGEST LOSER Star Brazilian striker Adriano has reportedly been locked up in a hotel to force him to lose weight. Corinthians have revealed Adriano, 29, must only eat what doctors give him at specific times of day, while training three times a day.

Photos: Getty Images

The major titles have eluded them of late, but there’s one title which Real Madrid can rightly claim to be overwhelming champions of, that of the world’s richest club. Indeed, it is now the seventh year running that Real have topped the annual Deloitte table of the world’s richest football clubs, thanks to revenues of 480m euros. The winning streak means that Mourinho’s men are now just one season away from equalling Man Utd’s record of eight years in pole position. The top seven clubs, in fact, stayed in exactly the same positions as last year. In second place was Barcelona, followed by Man Utd, Bayern Munich, Arsenal, Chelsea and AC Milan. Aston Villa dropped out of the top 20, but the Premier League still maintained its richest nation status, with six clubs in the top 20, followed by Italy with five, Germany with four, Spain three and France two. Altogether, the top 20 earned 4.4bn euros between them.

Rail Explorer Pass

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Visit greatsouthernrail.com.au/backpackers or book with your licensed travel agent. Terms and conditions apply. Package fares based on low season prices and per person based on Red Day/Nighter Seat. Airfares not included in package price. For the Rail Explorer Pass a fuel surcharge is payable at time of booking a journey and is only available to bona ﬁde overseas visitors to Australia. All Backpacker 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 2012 for travel until 31 March 2013. All prices are subject to change without notice. For full terms and conditions visit greatsouthernrail.com.au Travel Agent License No.TTA164190.

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WINNER

WEEKLY WINNER

HOT TIPS: Go straight

BORA ME TO TEARS: Clint Mullins, from Australia

HOW IT CAN GO WRONG

CLINT SAYS: ”This is the Intercontinental Resort at Bora Bora in Tahiti. The ocean around Bora Bora is magnificently aqua all the time, it’s a beautiful spot. We were travelling between resorts that day.” 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 Clint 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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We have all had the urge to slightly tilt our camera, thinking “this is going to be amazing”. I hate to be the one to break it to you, but nine times out of 10 it fails miserably. You don’t view the world by putting your head slightly to one side do you? So why would you think a photograph will look good in this way? It’s also very distracting, and takes away from what is the main subject of your image. Your brain is programmed to know what should be straight, and I personally find it unsettling looking at a wonky image. If you look at the image on this page, it wouldn’t have been as good if the photographer had decided to shoot crooked. If all else fails and you’re really struggling, then I have one word for you: tripod!

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NZ’S HOP-ON HOP-OFF BUS NETWORK FOR ADVENTUROUS TRAVELLERS

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TRAVELTIPS

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ON THE ROAD WITH TRAVEL

TALK JULIE HARDOUIN 25, FRANCE HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN HERE?

I bought a campervan with my boyfriend in Perth a year ago, and we crossed all the country. I absolutely love it.

YOU ASKED FOR IT... WE ANSWER YOUR TRAVEL QUESTIONS

there good diving near Melbourne? Q IsSarah Wallington, UK

a multitude of diving treats A There’s around Port Phillip Bay. You can venture to Portsea, the Mornington Peninsula and Queenscliff to experience unforgettable sights such as seals feeding, dolphins swimming overhead and crayfish foraging for food on the ocean floor. You can also investigate a vast number of shipwrecks. Once travelling from the other side of the globe, they met their gurgling end, unfortunately, just outside of Port Melbourne. Some diving excursions will take you to see ghostly old submarines that have perched themselves at the bottom of the sea. Plenty of marine life can also be found at these sites. Off Mornington, soft corals and sponge gardens can be viewed from places such as Rye Pier, where seahorses bob in the water and the occasional Moreton Bay bug pays a visit. Dive here at night for an even more spectacular underwater odyssey. Flinders Pier is home to a fascinating weedy seadragon population, and Portsea Hole allows you to plunge 34 metres to see overhangs, luminous blue devil fish and schools of whiting For those wanting a brush-with-death experience, divingheadquarters.com.au offers the only dive-with-sharks course in Victoria at the Melbourne Aquarium – you don’t even have to be a certified diver. 28

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thinking of proposing to my Q I’m girlfriend on Valentine’s Day. Where would be the most romantic place in Australia to do that? Anonymous, via email Sydney is an obvious and A Spectacular excellent choice. Anywhere with harbour views is ideal. Try Cremorne Point or Mrs Macquarie’s Chair. Otherwise, get down on bended knee atop the Harbour Bridge on a Bridge Climb or Sydney SkyWalk at sunset (although she may not hear you above the wind). Still in Sydney, why not take a helicopter flight over the harbour? You could pop the question as the chopper flies over the Opera House. Seaplane flights are also very romantic, they depart from Rose Bay, and if your lady likes her TV soaps, you could ask her as you fly over Palm Beach (made famous by Home and Away). Hot air ballooning is increasingly popular with young romantics; look out for deals that include a champagne breakfast. Pop the question at the vineyards of the Yarra, Hunter or Barossa valleys to add a dash of Tuscany to the occasion. For a sunset proposal you can’t go past Broome. Cable Beach’s white sand and azure waters have the best sunset going and plenty of space to get away from the crowds. Finally, you’ll find plenty of isolated spots along Tasmania’s Overland Track to propose. Just don’t do it on the first day – if she says no it’s an uncomfortable three-day walk back to civilisation.

WHAT’S BEEN YOUR BEST DAY IN OZ?

Snorkelling with manta rays in Coral Bay, WA. We saw dolphins, a jumping whale, gentle sharks and then saw sea turtles. MET ANY WEIRD PEOPLE?

Tony, a crazy Kiwi guy who loved to jump on tables, scream all night and who also tried to steal my chocolate cake one night. CRAZIEST THING YOU’VE DONE?

I took a nude shower in the middle of the bush between eucalyptus trees and a river! WHERE ARE YOU GOING NEXT?

To Karratha in WA for three months to earn some good money. ONE PLACE YOU’D REVISIT?

I loved the lifestyle of Byron Bay, Uluru was magic, and Kalbarri (WA) is a little paradise for travellers. I still want to get to the Blue Mountains.

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.

XXXXXX TOP FIVE TRAVELLERSTALE

THE GREY OUTDOORS

Stranded on a Tassie mountain, Dutch traveller ANNA HEIJKER climbed aboard with some grey nomads... Bushwalking, hiking, kayaking and climbing are my favourite things to do and Tasmania is one of the best places in the world to do these outdoorsy activities. On my second day in Hobart, the capital of Tasmania, I decided to walk some of the tracks on Mount Wellington. I left my hostel early in the morning and took the bus to the foot of the mountain, where the tracks start. My plan was to buy a map and get some information at the local tavern. Unfortunately the maps were sold out, so I had to follow the signs. I started making my way up to the top of the mountain around 10am. After an hour and a half of walking I reached ‘The Springs’, a resting point with cabins, where it started to rain. I was a little worried, because I knew the weather can change quickly on Mount Wellington and I didn’t exactly know where the next shelter would be. Because of safety reasons, I considered

walking back, but then I met a 72-yearold Australian lady, Marian, and after some small-talk she invited me to her campervan to join her and her husband as they drove to the top of the mountain. When we reached the top, Marian and Bob told me everything about their travels and offered me a coffee served with cookies. Marian said: “You might know these cookies.” Indeed, the cookies did look very familiar. In Holland they are called ‘Kletskoppen’ (translated: really talkative people). Marian had six big packages of Kletskoppen, all with images of windmills on the packaging. It was so funny to eat something typically Dutch while drinking coffee with two Australians on top of a mountain. Marian gave me a packet to take home. It was a shame that we couldn’t see much of Hobart because of the clouds, but these grey nomads made it a warm and friendly experience. Marian and Bob were going to

camp on top of the mountain. Marian insisted on helping me to find a lift back but there was just one other car in the car park. Marian and I went to the car, where we met Ron (78) and Von (73) from the Gold Coast. They were happy to take me back to Hobart and offered me a sandwich and a fruit pie. On the way, Von decided she wanted to go to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Hobart and she invited me to go with them. I had so much fun with my new ‘grey nomad grandparents’. Von was still recovering from a lifethreatening disease, but no stairs were too steep for her. She was so strong and she taught me a lot about the flora in the botanical gardens. Before we went home Ron shouted me an ice-cream. I really enjoyed the company of these inspiring people. They’ve all seen so much of the world and are still so active. They told me that their lifestyles keep them fit. The most striking thing was all four people I met were in their second marriages, and I could see they were so unbelievably happy with their current partners. Bob stroked Marian’s cheek and she was still smiling at him like it was their second date. Von and Ron aren’t married, but have been together for 20 years and are still having fun. Both couples advised me to stay single while I’m young and remember that there are plenty of other fish in the sea before I choose to be with someone. I’ll follow their advice and hopefully I’ll be a happy grey nomad in 50 years time.

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West coast TASMANIA

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Into the wild It might be Australia’s smallest state, but Tasmania’s west coast also happens to be one of the country’s most remote regions WORDS IAN NEUBAUER

There are few places in Australia – let alone the world – more wild or remote than the west coast of Tasmania. Bordered on one side by savage seas generated by the Southern Ocean weather system, and on the other by thickly forested mountain ranges, it remained untouched for nearly two centuries after Dutch navigator Abel Tasman first sighted Tasmania in 1642. Europeans did not arrive here until the early 19th century, when Captain James Kelly punched his whaling ship through the narrow opening at Macquarie Harbour. The opening was later named Hells Gate by the convicts shipped here to labour on the penal colony at Sarah Island – regarded at the time as the worst convict prison in all the colonies of Australia. Kelly was followed by fishermen, sailors, prospectors and tree-loggers, who travelled to what was then the edge of civilisation to exploit the west coast’s vast natural resources, basing themselves in the port town of Strahan (pronounced ‘Strawn’). Today, Strahan attracts a different kind of explorer: tourists who come to see Tasmania’s great south-west wilderness area. Luckily, it’s a whole lot easier to get to Strahan today, with sealed highways linking Launceston and Hobart.

GETTING THERE: Virgin Australia (virginaustralia.com, 13 67 89) flies daily to Launceston and Hobart from Melbourne and Sydney from $198 return. GETTING AROUND: Tassie Link Transit (tassielink. com.au, 03 6231 6090) charges $149 for return bus trips from Hobart or $162 from Launceston. Europcar (europcar.com, 03 9330 6160) rent cars at Launceston or Hobart airports from $60 a day. West Coast Wilderness Railway (westcoastwildernessrailway.com. au, 03 6471 4300) charges $110 for a return journey from Strahan to Queenstown. Gordon River Cruises (gordonrivercruises.com.au, 03 6225 7016) charge $99 per person with lunch included. ACCOMMODATION: Strahan Backpacker YHA (strahanbackpackers.com.au, 03 6471 7255) has beds from $25. SEE: discovertasmania.com.

GETTING WOOD Set on a tranquil inlet in the northern reaches of Macquarie Harbour, Strahan is a sleepy little village with a population of just 600. The action, when there is any, is centered along the Esplanade, where a row of heritage-listed terraced buildings front Strahan’s historical wharfside district. Among the many public bars, restaurants, cafés and galleries is Tasmania Special Timbers, marketed as “the best smelling shop in Australia”. They specialise in Huon pine,

one of the slowest growing plants in the world, known to live for up to 3,000 years. Huon pine contains an oil that renders its wood waterproof and prevents it from rotting, which made it extremely popular among colonial-era shipbuilders, who used convicts to harvest the trees around Macquarie Harbour. Today, Huon is a protected species and cannot be felled. But wood harvested from areas flooded by hydro-electric projects as well as stumps and heads left over from historical logging sites are stockpiled by the government and sold through Tasmania Special Timber and other select retailers. “We still have waiting lists of Huon pine for boat builders, but it’s mostly novelty stuff or high-end tenders for multi-million dollar yachts,” says sales manager Dianne Coon. “Most of it goes to furniture making and smaller items like apples and bowls and chopping boards that are sold as souvenirs across Tasmanian and the mainland. It has extraordinary value.” GREEN DAY

In the early 1980s, Strahan became the focus of the most famous conservation battle in Australian history when the then government of Tasmania planned to dam a junction of the Franklin and Gordon Rivers, not far from Macquarie Harbour. Emotions ran high as more than 1,200 protestors, including renowned British botanist David Bellamy and Senator Bob Brown (now leader of the Australian Green party) were arrested in the boat blockade that followed. The ensuing victory by the conservation movement led to a huge increase in tourism in south-west Tasmania, with visitors flocking to Strahan to catch an eyeful of the famous reflective waters of the Gordon River and the ancient TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

BEST TOUR/ACTIVITY IN TASMANIA

W ILLIAM R ILEY

WAS A CONVICT

WHO WAS ABANDONED AS A CHILD

–

AN ‘ INOFFENSIVE , ORDERLY ’ BOY

TRANSPORTED AT FOURTEEN , A DRUNK BY SIXTEEN , A MURDERER

He was in a most dreadful state to pass from this world to another.’ –R W R ’ T C T EPORT OF

ILLIAM

ILEY S TRIAL IN

OLONIAL

IMES

AMAZING STORIES, EPIC HISTORY Discover more for yourself! – www.portarthur.org.au

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Port Arthur, Tasmania Tel: 1800 659 101

BY TWENTY - NINE TO

–

WHAT HAPPENED

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The way all hostels should be

Step inside THE PICKLED FROG Jimmy, Em, Tommy and Sen are here to look after YOU! t Super relaxed atmosphere t In-house bar with Hobart’s cheapest beer t Delicious Tassie roasted organic coffee t Homemade Tea t FREE car park t FREE foosball

t FREE internet specials t $1 pool table t The best local staff t Widescreen TV with FOX Sports t Central Location t 24 hour kitchen

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Resident puppy – “Baloo”

Tasmania W H E R E wild one moment A N D cruisey the next.

THERE ARE PL ACES IN IT’S

... AND IT ’S JUST AROUND T HE BEND. Sydney Melbourne TASMANIA

Just a short flight from Melbourne or Sydney and you could be visiting Tasmania, the southern island state of Australia, where wide expanses of World Heritage Area wilderness will ignite your adventurous passions. Come and raft the legendary Franklin River, breathe in the beauty of the Tarkine, climb the majestic Cradle Mountain or travel overland to kayak beneath some of Australia’s highest sea cliffs on the Tasman Peninsula. Visit www.discovertasmania.com.au or www.backpacktassie.com for local backpacking info.

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“

On a World Heritage scale, it surpasses Stonehenge and the pyramids of Egypt

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temperate rainforest that feeds off it. Now part of a 1.38-million-hectare World Heritage-listed area that encompasses 20 per cent of the state. Unless you have your own boat, the only way to see the wilderness area is aboard the Lady Jane Franklin II, a 32m catamaran that departs from Strahan wharf at 8.30am every day for a three-quarter day cruise. With floor-to-ceiling windows, she can explore the Gordon under just about all weather conditions, which is essential for the survival of the business considering how much rain falls here – about 1,500mm a year. Our first stop is the aptly named Hells Gate. As our catamaran glides past the diabolically small opening, it’s easy to sea why 16 ships met their end here in times gone past. “The gap is only 60 metres wide,” says Captain Graham Ridler. “Not much room for error, especially when you’re behind the wheel of a big sailboat.” To give us an idea of what it would have been like

Make the escape to the Eagles Eyrie on a Top of the World Tour Experience all the fun of the Railtrack Rider as you pedal into the heart of the forest to explore long-abandoned bush heritage, before embarking on a fully escorted coach tour to the Eagles Eyrie, an alpine wonderland with an eagles eye view over the Tasmanian wilderness. Plenty of time for indulgence with individual gourmet lunchboxes and fine Tasmanian wines for your enjoyment.

Departs 11am Book now! Maydena Adventure Hub, ph 1300 720 507 38 Kallista Road, Maydena adventureforests.com.au See web site for tour dates

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Cruisin’ on the Lady Jane

travelling to Strahan in those days, Captain Ridler motors the Lady Jane a few hundred metres into the Great Southern Ocean. In an instant we’re battling 8m waves, the catamaran heaving and throwing under the force of it all. Yet it’s still a walk in the park compared to the 20m waves that surface on windy days – conditions Strahan’s famously tough fisherman deal with for two or three weeks on end while plying these waters for salmon, marlin and yellowfin tuna. IRON LADY The Lady Jane turns around and heads back into Macquarie Harbour, bypassing a small city of fish pens, each of which contains 25,000 ocean trout. Fed with dye-infused pellets that give the meat its famously pink meat, plus huge volumes of cold, freshwater that flow from the eight wilderness area rivers that empty Macquarie Harbour, west Tasmanian ocean trout is a highly prized fish found on the menus of top restaurants in world centres from London to New York. And it’s into the biggest of those eight rivers – the Gordon – into which the Lady Jane now ventures. The feeling on entering it is like stepping back in time to a primordial world. As one of the largest

H O B A R T T A S M A N I A

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Known for some of the most diverse and clear diving found anywhere in Australia, Tasmanian Coastal Adventures offers you the chance to explore this untouched world with dives departing daily. Introductions to Scuba and Shore Dives also available.

www.ar thousehostel.com.au FREECALL 1800 04 11 35

Call us today on 0499 126 278 (0499 1 COAST) Email tasmaniancoastaladventures@gmail.com Or check out our Facebook page at www.facebook.com/TasmanianCoastalAdventures

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remaining temperate rainforests on Earth, the flora living on its edge was forming during the time of Jesus, the Dark Ages and when Captain Cook discovered Australia. Included among them are millennia-old Huon pines, palm-size tree ferns that are survivors of the Ice Age and striking Pandani, the largest heath plant in the world. The fauna that lives here is ancient and unique too: the eastern quoll, a beautiful spotted marsupial on the endangered species list; one of the state’s few remaining populations of Tasmanian devils unaffected by the deadly cancer that is decimating the species; and 250 million-year-old mountain shrimp – one of nature’s first crustaceans. And while passengers are unlikely to see any of these critters, they are guaranteed some of the most magnificent nature-based photo opportunities. Whether it’s the work of a lack of pollutants, some strange chemical or bacteria, or perhaps something more cosmic yet, the Gordon River is in effect one long, snaking mirror. The sight of the rainforests and pointy little hills doubled up against the water is arguably one of the most beautiful sights on Earth. On a World Heritage scale, it surpasses Stonehenge, the pyramids of Egypt and every other protected area on the list (there are more than 800), with only Mount Taishan in China scoring higher on the cultural and natural criteria used to assess their importance. “This World Heritage area belongs to all of us,” says

DEVIL OF A TIME TASMANIA’S QUALITY CRITTERS

Captain Graham. “So grab your camera and when you go home you can show your friends that you stood in one of the oldest bio-masses on Earth.” OFF THE RAILS

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By the close of the 19th century, the whaling industry that gave birth to Strahan and the logging industry that sustained it were superseded by rapid industrialisation and demand for the fossil fuels and minerals that drive it. The

Walking with wombats Photos: Tourism Tasmania/Glen Gibson, George Apostolidis, Dan Fellow, Stuart Crossett

Tasmania is one of the best places for catching a glimpse of some of Australia’s most iconic creatures, so it’s well worth trying to seek some out. Tassie devils, sadly, are threatened by a facial tumour epidemic spread by their vicious brawling over food and sex – not unlike humans really. However, these adorable little creatures are still often seen near highways, feasting on fresh road kill, while their hideous screeching is commonly heard all over the island. The platypus is a more difficult cutey to spot, living an amphibious, nocturnal life chasing insects and crustaceans on the banks of waterways. Latrobe, near Davenport, is turning itself into a platypus Mecca, with a visitors centre explaining all about the life of this strange animal, with nightly ‘pus spotting tours in a nearby nature reserve. The best place to see a thylacine (Tassie tiger) is in Hobart, where a museum shows grainy film of the last known tiger in Hobart Zoo in 1936. The unfortunate animal is officially extinct, although numerous sightings around the state give hope to those who believe otherwise. Grumpy but lovable wombats are easier to track down. One of the best places to spot one is by the Overland Track at the base of Cradle Mountain.

paradigm shift brought massive changes to the economy of western Tasmania, with attention focused on the rich inland copper fields. The biggest and oldest is the Mt Leyell Mine in Queenstown, 40km west of Strahan, which operated continuously from 1893 to 1994. To get the copper ore to market, a railway line was carved through the King River Gorge linking Queenstown and Strahan – recognised at the time as the colony’s greatest engineering achievement. Built by hand, it saw labourers cut through massive rock faces and install bridges that were constructed off-site. Rocketing costs saw the railway closed in 1963 and fall into ruin. But when tourism gained momentum here in the 1980s, a plot was hatched to restore the railway to allow tourists to get an understanding of the difficulties early settlers endured in building it – and to see nature in the raw. “It’s worthwhile because it lets you get really up close to rainforest areas that are pristine that you otherwise wouldn’t be able to see,” says railway worker Michele Percy. Tassie month: “And the history that goes Roadtrippin’ with it and how they cut the Apple Isle through mountains to create it is amazing.” ❚

NEXT WEEK

All’s quiet on Strahan’s Esplanade

TASMANIA. WILD PLACES. WILD LIFE. WILD FUN.

UNDER DOWN UNDER is one of Tasmania’s pioneers of o affordable adventure travel in Tasmania. Established in 1996, just like a good wine, we get better every year. Plus, we’re consistently the intrepid travellers’ first choice when it comes to local knowledge, great guides and taking our guests to the most memorable places. Book a Super Six or Super Seven Day Tour during the TNT Tassie month of February and you will get a free Mt Wellington Descent. To receive this special offer, you must quote promotion code “TNT” at the time of booking. *Only for TSS6 and TSS7 booked up to the 5th of March for travel between 1/2/12 to 30/6/12. *Free Mt Wellington Descent is not transferrable and cannot be redeemed for cash.

1800 064 726 www.underdownunder.com.au TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

Dubai UAE

Opulent: Dubaiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s seven-star hotel, the Burj al Arab

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Doing Dubai on the cheap It’s best known as a Las Vegas-style lair of tack. But cut the purse strings and you’ll discover there is a cultural side to the city WORDS LAURA CHUBB

Dubai: admittedly not the most obvious budget destination. Best known as the go-to spot for perma-tanned WAGs and the ‘nouveau riche’, its very reputation (or lack of) is built on a predilection for big buildings and bling. But exploring the opulent desert city on a shoestring is in fact the finest – or perhaps even the only – way to see the culture beyond the clichés. “But Dubai has no culture.” I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve heard this phrase. No doubt a product of too much time spent in its soulless shopping malls and hotel bars, it’s true Dubai can come off a bit sterile. The city’s garish gimmicks – diving with sharks in shopping malls, world’s biggests and tallests, a ‘seven-star’ hotel – are fun but ultimately shallow. But slash the budget and you’ll be forced to dig a little deeper.

WHEN TO GO: October-April is about perfect, with guaranteed sunshine, temperatures ranging between 20°C and 30°C, and little to no humidity. CURRENCY: $1 = AED3.9 (Emirati Dirham). ACCOMMODATION: Dubai Youth Hostel boasts great facilities including pool, gym and sauna. Beds start at $25pp, but note it is pretty far from the rest of the city (uaeyha.com). Rooms at the Holiday Inn Express in central Jumeirah start at $59pp a night (holidayinn.com). Avoid the 2-3 star hotels around Bur Dubai and Deira: they’re infested with bed bugs. SEE: dubaitourism.ae

FOODIE HEAVEN By doing just that, I find I have never encountered such a diverse cultural melting pot as the one overflowing in Dubai. Perhaps the greatest indicator of this is Dubai’s budget food scene – a grossly overlooked treasure trove of culinary treats. While the likes of Gordon Ramsay, Jamie Oliver, Gary Rhodes and Nobu Matsuhisa happily charge a few-hundredquid-a-head in their Dubai eateries – and even fashion icons Georgio Armani and Roberto Cavalli have chosen here to launch fine-dining affairs – I discover the real top tables are found in its tucked-away neighbourhoods. Walking down the bustling, neon-soaked streets of Deira, a largely Indian area near Dubai Creek, I duck inside Al Bayt Al Baghdadi. Among a strip of restaurants on Al Muteena Street, its simple canteen-like set-up includes a huge cauldron. Fresh fish is cooked over coals the traditional Iraqi way. Served with a mezze of Arabic sides, a feast fit for four sets you back no more than $7 each. Similarly, if you wander as I did to the Umm Suqeim

Fishing Village – not 10 minutes from the infamous seven-star Burj al Arab – you’ll find a cabin bearing the neon sign Bu Qtair. A cross-section of Dubai’s expat communities – Indians, Filipinos, Aussies and Brits – clamour to order fish caught that day, bathed in Indian spices and paired with rotis. A particularly quirky touch is that the staff bring out my table with my food (the cramped cabin makes the experience necessarily al-fresco). I spend no more than a few dollars. Another unexplored ‘hood’ is International City, where a largely Pakistani, Afghan, Filipino and Chinese population dwell. Divided into 10 clusters of apartment blocks, each is named after a country, and bears architecture reflecting that theme. CURRY KINGS

On the outskirts of the city, it is a million miles from the polished villas of inner Dubai – a friend describes it as equivalent to ‘the projects’ in the US. This is low-income housing, Dubai-style: still gimmicky, but not quite so plush. The China cluster boasts the decidedly offbeat Buhaiwan Chinese restaurant. Its shabby mauve décor has seen better days, and my Mandarin-speaking companion has to do all the ordering because no one speaks English. However, there are lots of smiles, and the food – an obscure cuisine from the Uyghurs, a Turk ethnic group that has primarily settled in the Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region (western China, bordering Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan) – is like nothing I’ve ever tasted before. Strange concoctions involving kebab meat, potatoes, seaweed and lots of chilli are surprisingly tasty, and set my tongue a-tingling. I spend about $6 on two huge dishes. But perhaps the most sublime foodie finds are in independent Indian restaurants, most of which are spread throughout Dubai’s working-class Karama and Satwa. TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

Old vs new: Dubai’s ancient Creek set against Sheikh Zayed Road’s modern skyline

More than half of Dubai’s population is Indian, producing a plethora of authentic cuisine from all over the sub-continent. If you think you’ve had good curries before, let Dubai serve you some better ones. Probably my favourite discovery is the thalis at Madras Vegetarian Restaurant in Mankhool Road, near Satwa roundabout. The sweet staff are elated to see a couple of

to prayer is the highlight of my haul. You can also get clothes tailored here; my travel companion has her Topshop dress copied into three different colours for $60, including material. Even a night out on the town gets me talking to folk from all over the world. Starting at the infamous Tuesday night pub quiz in Fibber Magee’s in Sheikh Zayed Road, I find where the Irish, Aussies, Kiwis and Brits come for a

“

Strange concoctions are surprisingly tasty, and set my tongue a-tingling

”

tourists come in, and set about showing us how to eat with our hands. Luckily, we’ve stumbled in on a Friday, when an allyou-can-eat supply of curries, chutneys, poppadoms and rice is served up on a giant banana leaf for – I kid you not – $3. LADIES NIGHT Satwa is also a great spot for shopping. Sure, you could head to Dubai Mall, with its shark-filled aquarium and Olympic-sized ice skating rink, or even Mall of the Emirates, home to a ski slope and Harvey Nichols. But pounding the dusty pavements of Satwa, I dig out all manner of glorious tat. A pink, plastic mosque-shaped alarm clock that sounds the call 40

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Man-made: the Palm Jumeirah

taste of home. As well as battling it out over rounds including Plasticine-modelling, I get four free white spirits on entry by virtue of being a woman – now that’s a result. It seems Tuesday is ‘ladies’ night’ in Dubai, because I’m then dragged off to Boudoir – a posy club in the Dubai Marine Resort & Spa – under the promise of free-flowing bubbly. Draped in velvet and dripping with shimmering chandeliers, any other night in this elite spot would do your purse some serious damage. But, tonight, champagne is on the house for the girls, and I dance the night away with Emirates airline staff from every corner of the globe. I get chatting to air stewards Billy, who is Lebanese, and Fadi, a Palestinian. Billy assures me that Dubai is “the best place on Earth”. If Fadi wasn’t so busy cutting some rug, I’m sure he’d agree. As fun as I’m finding all this mega-cheap eating and drinking, I realise there’s one element of Dubai’s cultural fusion I haven’t explored: the locals (just 17 per cent of Dubai’s population are UAE nationals). This is easily solved with a visit to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, located in a traditional house by the Creek. The centre’s mantra is ‘open doors, open minds’, reflecting its aim to remove the mysteries surrounding Middle Eastern culture and Islam. I book in for the cultural breakfast – held every Monday and Wednesday – during which you can ask your Emirati host anything you like about the culture, while feasting on a spread of traditional fare. Alongside the learning, it’s a unique opportunity to sample the local cuisine as there are no restaurants serving it in Dubai (one restaurant, Local House in Bastakiya, claims to do so, but I’m unconvinced by the menu’s inclusion of camel burgers and camel curry). SAIL AWAY About 15 of us collect in the centre’s shady courtyard, kept cool by its distinctive wind towers – or ancient air-conditioning. Our female host answers questions about Islamic dress and women’s rights, frankly and good-humouredly. When quizzed

BEST BUDGET-BUSTERS FIVE THINGS WORTH EMPTYING THE WALLET FOR 1. SKYDIVE DUBAI WHAT: The man-made Palm Jumeirah island, sculpted into the shape of a palm tree and host to the world’s biggest fireworks display in 2008, makes for one hell of a view from on high. If you fancy jumping out of a plane over it, set aside $444. SEE: skydivedubai.ae 2. AT THE TOP, BURJ KHALIFA WHAT: Think you can stomach the sight from the observation deck of the world’s tallest building? A high-speed elevator whisks you to floor 124 of the more than 160-storey, 2,716ft tower. An advancebooked ticket is $25; on-the-spot entry costs $100. SEE: burjkhalifa.ae 3. DRINKS AT THE BURJ AL ARAB WHAT: This self-proclaimed ‘seven-star’ hotel cuts a majestic figure on its own man-made island just off Dubai’s coast. Inside, it’s a gaudy exercise in over-egging the pudding. The cheapest way to get through the doors is to book a table at the Skyview Bar, suspended 200 metres above sea-level, where you’re obliged to spend $37 each. That should get you a couple of beers. SEE: jumeirah.com 4. BRUNCH AT AL QASR WHAT: The Dubai Friday brunch is a thing of legend. Every Friday, hotels challenge lairy expats to eat and drink as much as they can between 12pm and 4pm. The brunch at Al Qasr is the biggest orgy of overindulgence: the buffet is spread over three restaurants, and you can order endless wine, beer, bubbly, and cocktails. The damage? $132. SEE: jumeirah.com 5. SKI DUBAI WHAT: Snowboarding down a ski slope in -4°C temperatures while shoppers gaze at you from behind a glass panel in a mall in the middle of the desert is… an experience. And it can be yours for $51. SEE: skidxb.com about the fact that she has to obtain permission from her husband to leave the emirate, she says: “You wouldn’t go off somewhere without leaving your husband a note to say where you’re going – it’s the same.” Having filled up on luqeymat – sweet doughnut-like balls dipped in date syrup – I walk off breakfast by the Creek, which glitters unabashedly in the afternoon sun. You can pay about $60 for a dinner cruise down the Creek, but I elect to spend 25 cents on an abra ride to the other side. Stepping into these little motor-powered boats is always an adventure, as they speed erratically among much larger dhows (wooden Arab sailing vessels). Squashed between men dressed in the Shalwar Qameez, I can hardly believe I am in the decadent desert city right now. This feeling is only enhanced by a walk along the TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

wharfage once I reach the other side. Here, hot, sweaty sailors load their dhows with goods ranging from food to refrigerators. Tonight, they’ll begin the journey all the way to India. It all seems impossibly exotic, despite the glass-fronted Rolex towers glinting at me nearby. A dearth of culture is not something the Dubai-bashers have got right. But there is one thing that vistors have nailed – gaining the infamous ‘Dubai stone’. I might have saved a pile of cash doing Dubai on a budget, but considering all the amazing food China: Discovering I’ve been scoffing, it’s the raw and untamed all going towards a gym People’s Republic membership when I get home. ❚

NEXT WEEK

Brekkie: a traditional spread

The Insider’s guide South African Devan Coetzer is a senior guide at Dubai-based tour company Absolute Adventure (adventure. ae), which takes outdoorsy types into the wilds of the UAE and Oman over the border. He tells us about the region as a secret hub for adventure tourism. What makes the UAE good for an adventure? It’s a largely untapped area for adventure tourism; people don’t tend to know that much about it yet. So a lot of the time, you get the adventure all to yourself. What’s your favourite tour that you run? I love the Aqaba Lima trek. You start from Dibba at the north-eastern tip of the country, and catch a speedboat up the coast of Musandam, which is part of Oman. The coastline is very dramatic with its mountains, fjords and crystal clear water. Once at Aqaba in Oman, the terrain is quite tough, with lots of loose gravel and steep climbs. You also walk on narrow ledges by the sea, where you can spot dolphins and stingrays. What’s the UAE’s best kept secret? The rock climbing is great, especially around Wadi Bih, in Ras Al Khaimah. Wadis are like canyons, so you can climb both sides and always make sure you’re in the shade. Again, not many people know about it, so it’s like your own private place for climbing. And where’s the best place to chill out? I’m a waterbaby, so for me it’s snorkelling in Dibba. I went yesterday and saw four turtles. It’s great for a spot of relaxing sea-kayaking, too.

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Suck: enjoy shisha of a warm evening

Fresh: grab dinner at Umm Suqeim Fishing Village

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TRAVEL AGENTS Adventure Travel Bugs 07 3236 3266, 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

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

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

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

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

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

Melbourne Australia Tours Victorian tours. 03 9016 9347 melbourneaustraliatours.com.au

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

Wicked Campers 1800 246 869, wickercampers.com

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

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

Explore Whitsundays Whitsundays packages 1800 675 790, explorewhitsundays.com

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

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

Ocean Rafting Whitsundays tours 07 4946 6848, oceanrafting.com Oz Experience Hop on-hop off Australia-wide tours 1300 300 028, ozexperience.com Surfcamp Sydney to Byron surfing tours 1800 888 732, surfcamp.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

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

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

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

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

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

The Rock Tour Red centre tours 1800 246 345, therocktour.com.au Topdeck Tours covering all of Oz 1300 886 332, topdeck.travel

RENTAL FIRMS

TRANSPORT CO

Apollo Motorhomes 1800 777 779, apollocamper.com

Greyhound Australia Buses around Australia. 13 20 30, greyhound.com.au

Backpacker Campervan Rentals 1800 767 010, backpackercampervans.com.au

Jetstar Airline. 131 538, jetstar.com.au

Boomerang Cars 0414 882 559, boomerangcars.com.au

Premier Transport Group Buses along the east coast. 13 34 10, premierms.com.au

Explore More Rentals 1800 708 309, exploremore.com.au

Qantas Airline. 13 13 13, qantas.com.au

Hippie Camper 1800 777 779, hippiecamper.com Kings Cross Car Market For buying and selling vehicles. 110 Bourke St, Woolloomooloo. 02 9358 5000, carmarket.com.au

Regional Express Airline. 13 17 13, rex.com.au Spirit of Tasmania Ferries to Tasmania. 03 6336 1446, spiritoftasmania.com Tiger Airways Airline. 03 9999 2888, tigerairways.com

Spaceships 1300 132 469, spaceshipsrentals.com.au

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

Standbycars.com 1300 789 059, standbycars.com

Virgin Australia Airline. 13 67 89, virginaustralia.com

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S S O R C KINGS RKET A M R A C NT BUY, SELL & RE 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

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SYDNEY STAY Base Sydney 477 Kent St. CBD. 02 9267 7718, stayatbase.com Big Hostel 212 Elizabeth St. CBD. 02 9267 7718, bighostel.com Bounce Budget Hotel 28 Chalmers St. CBD. 02 9281 2222, bouncehotel.com.au Easy Go Backpackers 752 George St. CBD. 02 9211 0505, easygobackpackers.com.au City Resort Hostel 103-105 Palmer St. Woolloomooloo 02 9357 3333, cityresort.com.au Sydney Central YHA 11 Rawson Place. CBD. 02 9218 9000 Sydney Harbour YHA 110 Cumberland Street. The Rocks. 02 9261 1111, yha.com.au

Avalon Beach Hostel 59 Avalon Pde, Avalon Beach. 02 9918 9709, avalonbeach.com.au Bondi YHA 63 Fletcher Street. Tamarama. 02 9365 2088, yha.com.au Lamrock Lodge 19 Lamrock Ave. Bondi. 02 9130 5063, lamrocklodge.com Lochner’s Guesthouse 8 Gowrae Ave. Bondi. 02 9387 2162, Aegean Coogee Lodge 40 Coogee Bay Rd. Coogee. 04 0817 6634, aegeancoogee.com.au Coogee Beachside 178 Coogee Bay Rd, Coogee. 02 9315 8511, sydneybeachside.com.au

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

Surfside Backpackers 186 Arden Street. Coogee. 02 9315 7888, surfsidebackpackers.com.au

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

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

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

Boardrider Backpacker Rear 63, The Corso, Manly. 02 9977 3411 boardrider.com.au

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

The Bunkhouse 35 Pine St, Manly. 1800 657 122, bunkhouse.com.au

Manly Backpackers 24-28 Raglan St. Manly. 02 9977 3411 manlybackpackers.com.au Cammeray Gardens 66 Palmer St, North Sydney. 02 9954 9371 sydneyboardinghouse.com Wake Up! 509 Pitt St, CBD. 02 9288 7888, wakeup.com.au

SYDNEY DO Manly Surf School Manly Beach. 02 9977 6977, manlysurfschool.com Maritime Museum Darling Harbour. anmm.gov.au Oceanworld Manly West Esplanade. oceanworld.com.au Powerhouse Museum Darling Harbour. powerhousemuseum.com.au Skydive the Beach Wollongong. skydivethebeach.com Sydney Observatory The Rocks. sydneyobservatory.com.au Sydney Olympic Park Darling Harbour. sydneyolympicpark.nsw. gov.au Sydney Tower and Skytour 100 Market St, CBD. sydneyskytour.com.au Sydney Harbour Bridge The Rocks. bridgeclimb.com

WORD FROM THE STREET

CENTRAL COAST

Sydney Aquarium Darling Harbour. sydneyaquarium.com.au

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

Sydney Wildlife World Darling Harbour. sydneywildlifeworld.com.au

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

Taronga Zoo Mosman. zoo.nsw.gov.au Waves Surf School wavessurfschool.com.au

BYRON BAY

SYDNEY MUSIC

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

Hordern Pavillion playbillvenues.com

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

Oxford Art Factory oxfordartfactory.com Sydney Opera House sydneyoperahouse.com

Byron Bay Accom 02 6680 8666, byronbayaccom.net

The Annandale annandalehotel.com

The Arts Factory 1 Skinners Shoot Rd. 02 6685 7709, nomadshostels.com

The Basement thebasement.com.au The Enmore enmoretheatre.com.au The Gaelic Hotel thegaelic.com The Metro metrotheatre.com.au

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

Nomads Byron Bay Lawson Lane. 1800 666 237, nomadshostels.com Byron Bay YHA 7 Carlyle St. 1800 678 195, yha.com.au

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

CHECK OUT

Marte Beate Olsen, Norway HEY MARTE. BEEN UP TO MUCH IN NSW? “I’ve basically been in Sydney and up the coast.” GOT A FAVOURITE PLACE? “It’s really hard to choose. Sydney has awesome, welcoming people that just want to help you with everything, but Byron Bay has a great backpackers vibe, so it is really easy to get to know people. We had some good parties there.” ANY STRANGE EXPERIENCES? “One of the funniest was joining a couple of girls on a daytrip to Nimbin, which is known for its alternative way of life. We saw a guy just walking around in the middle of the street with a major marijuana plant like a metre high!

GLEBE Sydney inner west suburb Glebe is very cool with something of a ‘crusty’ edge – think organic cafés and feminist bookshops, thanks in large part to being where the majority of the city’s students are based. It’s also a backpacker centre, with lots of cheap eats and plenty of cafés and pubs. Not only that, but it boasts the grungier, more alternative of the markets in town (Saturdays in the schoolyard on Glebe Point Road).

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BRISBANE STAY Aussie Way Backpackers 34 Cricket St. 07 3369 0711, aussiewaybackpackers.com Banana Bender Backpackers 118 Petrie Terrace. 07 3367 1157, bananabenders.com Base Brisbane Embassy 214 Elizabeth St. 07 3166 8000, stayatbase.com Base Brisbane Central 308 Edward St. 07 3211 2433, stayatbase.com

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 Lone Pine Koala Santuary 708 Jesmond Rd, Fig Tree Pocket. 07 3378 1366, koala.net Gallery of Modern Art South Bank. 07 3840 7303, qag.qld.gov.au

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

Riverlife Adventure Centre Kayaking & rock climbing. Lower River Terrace, Kangaroo Point. 07 3891 5766, riverlife.com.au

Brisbane City Apartments 1800 110 443, brisbanecityapartments.com

Story Bridge Adventure Climb 170 Main St, Kangaroo Point. 1300 254 627, storybridgeadventureclimb.com.au

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 Bunk Backpackers Cnr Ann & Gipps Sts, Fortitude Valley. 1800 682 865, bunkbrisbane.com.au The Deck 117 Harcourt Street, New Farm. 04 3377 7061

XXXX Ale House Brewery tours. Cnr Black & Paten St, Milton. 07 3361 7597, xxxxalehouse.com.au

GOLD COAST Aquarius Backpackers 44 Queen St, Surfers Paradise. 1800 22 99 55, aquariusbackpackers.com.au Backpackers in Paradise 40 Peninsula Drive, Surfers Paradise. 1800 268 621, backpackersinparadise.com.au

Cheers International Backpackers 8 Pine Av, Surfers Paradise. 1800 636 539, cheersbackpackers.com.au Coolangatta Kirra Beach YHA Pl, 230 Coolangatta Rd, Bilinga. 07 5536 76442, yha.com.au

GC DO Dreamworld Theme park. dreamworld.com.au

Seaworld seaworld.com.au

Gold Coast International BP 28 Hamilton Ave, Surfers. 1800 816 300, goldcoastbackpackers.com.au

Warener Bros Movie World movieworld.com.au

Sleeping Inn Surfers 26 Peninsular Dr, Surfers Paradise. 1800 817 832, sleepinginn.com.au Surfers Paradise Backpackers Resort 2837 Gold Coast Highway, Surfers. 1800 282 800, surfersparadisebackpackers.com.au Surf ‘n’ 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

Skydive Rainbow Beach 0418 218 358, skydiverainbowbeach.com

Get Wet Surf School 07 5532 9907

Coolangatta Sands Hostel Cnr Griffiths & McLean Sts, Coolangatta. 07 5536 7472, coolangattasandshostel.com.au

Islander Backpackers Resort 6 Beach Rd, Surfers Paradise. 1800 074 393, islander.com.au

Pippies Beach House 22 Spectrum St. 1800 425 356, pippiesbeachhouse.com

HERVEY BAY

Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World wetnwild.myfun.com.au

Aussie Woolshed 181 Torquay Road. 07 4124 0677 woolshedbackpackers.com Colonial Village YHA 820 Boat Harbour Drive. 07 4125 1844, yha.com.au

Zorb Adrenalin rolling. 07 5547 6300

Fraser Roving 412 The Esplanade. 1800 989 811, fraserroving.com.au

SUNSHINE CST Mooloolaba Backpackers 75-77 Brisbane Rd, Mooloolaba. 1800 020 120 mooloolababackpackers.com

Next at Hervey Bay 10 Bideford St. 1800 102 989, nextbackpackers.com.au Nomads Hervey Bay 408 The Esplanade. 1800 666 237, nomadshostels.com

Nomads Noosa 44 Noosa Dr, Noosa Heads. 1800 666 237, nomadshostels.com

Palace Backpackers 184 Torquay, 1800 063 168, palaceadventures.com.au

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

FRASER ISLAND Eurong Beach Resort 07 4120 1600, eurong.com.au Palace Adventures 184 Torquay St, Hervey Bay, 1800 063 168 palaceadventures.com.au

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BUNDABERG

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Great Barrier Reef

Absolute Backpackers 28 Wongaling Beach Road. 07 4068 8317, absolutebackpackers.com.au

Northside Backpackers 12 Queen St. 07 4154 1166

Scotty’s Beach House 167 Reid Rd. 07 4068 8676, scottysbeachhouse.com.au

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

AIRLIE BEACH LIVEABOARD TRIPS

airliebeach.com 259 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 677 119 Airlie Beach YHA 394 Shute Harbour Rd. 1800 247 251, yha.com.au Airlie Waterfront Backpackers 6 The Esplanade. 1800 089 000, airliewaterfront.com

DAY TRIPS

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

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

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

BOWEN Bowen Backpackers Beach end of Herbert St. 07 4786 3433 bowenbackpackers.net

TOWNSVILLE

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CAIRNS STAY Bohemia Central Cairns 100 Sheridan St. 1800 558 589, bohemiacentral.com.au Bohemia Resort Cairns 231 McLeod St. 1800 155 353, bohemiaresort.com.au Calypso Backpackers 5 Digger St. 1800 815 628, calypsobackpackers.com.au Dreamtime Travellers Rest 189 Bunda St. 1800 058 440, dreamtimehostel.com Gilligans Backpackers and Hotel Resort 57-89 Grafton St. 1800 556 995, gilligans.com.au JJ’s Backpackers Hostel 11 Charles St. 07 4051 7642, jjsbackpackers.com NJOY Travellers Resort Harbour 141 Sheridan St. 1800 807 055, njoy.net.au Nomads Beach House 239 Sheridan St. 1800 229 228, nomadshostels.com Nomads Cairns 341 Lake St. 1800 737 736, nomadshostels.com Nomads Esplanade 93 The Esplanade. 1800 175 716, nomadshostels.com Northern Greenhouse 117 Grafton St. 1800 000 541, northerngreenhouse.com.au

CAIRNS DO AJ Hackett Bungy jumping & canyon swinging. 1800 622 888 cairns.ajhackett.com Cairns Dive Centre 1800 642 591, cairnsdive.com.au Pro Dive 07 4031 5255, prodivecairns.com

Adventurers Resort 79 Palmer St. 1800 211 522, adventurersresort.com

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

Adrenalin Dive Yongala diving. 07 4724 0600, adrenalindive.com.au

Skydive Cairns 07 4052 1822, skydivecairns.com.au

Yongala Dive Yongala diving. 07 4783 1519, yongaladive.com.au

Skydive Cairns 07 4030 7990, ragingthunder.com.au

MAGNETIC ISL Base Magnetic Island 1 Nelly Bay Rd. 1800 24 22 73, stayatbase.com Bungalow Bay Backpackers Horseshoe Bay. 1800 285 577, bungalowbay.com.au Magnums 7 Marine Pde, Arcadia Bay. 1800 663 666, magnetic-island.com/arc-rsrt.htm Pleasure Divers 07 4778 5788

MISSION BEACH

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

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

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

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

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MELBOURNE STAY

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

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

BOOK NOW!

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

Base Melbourne 17 Carlisle St, St. Kilda. 1800 242 273, stayatbase.com

MELBOURNE DO

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

Australian Centre for the Moving Image Federation Square. 03 8663 2200, acmi.net.au

Exford Hotel 199 Russell St. 03 9663 2697, exfordhotel.com.au Flinders Station Hotel 35 Elizabeth St. 03 9620 5100, flindersbackpackers.com.au The Greenhouse Backpacker Level 6, 228 Flinders Lane. 1800 249 207, greenhousebackpacker.com.au Habitat HQ 333 St Kilda Road, St Kilda. 1800 202 500, habitathq.com.au Home at the Mansion 66 Victoria Parade. 03 9663 4212, homemansion.com.au

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

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

NEW ORDER Festival Hall. Thur, 1 Mar. $89.40. Get your world in motion to make this gig as the recently reformed (albeit without Hooky) legends are in Oz for Future plus sideshows.

300 Dudley St, Melbourne Home Travellers Motel 32 Carlisle St, St Kilda. 1800 008 718, hometravellersmotel.com.au Hotel Bakpak Melbourne 167 Franklin St. 1800 645 200, hotelbakpak.com

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Melbourne Central YHA 562 Flinders St. 03 9621 2523, yha.com.au Nomads Melbourne 198 Aâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;beckett St. 1800 447 762, nomadshostels.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 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 The Tote thetotehotel.com

GREAT OCEAN RD Anglesea Backpackers 40 Noble St, Anglesea. 03 5263 2664, angleseabackpackers.com.au Eco Beach YHA 5 Pascoe St. 03 5237 7899, yha.com.au Great Ocean Road Backpackers YHA 10 Erskine Av, Lorne. 03 5289 2508, yha.com.au

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follow follow us us on on @tnt_downunder Sorrento YHA 3 Miranda St, Sorrento. 03 5984 4323, yha.com.au

TRY THIS!

CHECK OUT!

Tortoise Head Lodge French Island. 03 5980 1234, tortoisehead.net

DANDENONG Emerald Backpackers 03 5968 4086

MURRAY RIVER Echuca Gardens YHA 103 Av, Mitchell St, Echuca. 03 5480 6522, yha.com.au

SALSA DANCING Flinders St Ampitheatre. Tuesdays, 5.45pm-7.30pm. Free. Whether you want to learn some moves or simply watch, have a partner or are looking to partner up for Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, check out the free lessons.

Federation Square, Melbourne

Port Campbell Hostel 18 Tregea St, Port Campbell. 03 5598 6305, portcampbellhostel.com.au Surfside Backpackers Cnr Great Ocean Rd & Gambier St, Apollo Bay. 1800 357 263, surfsidebackpacker.com

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MORNINGTON

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

HEART VS GOLD COAST UNITED AAMI Park. Fri, 17 Feb. $25. They might be Melbourneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newer and smaller club, but Heart are above Victory this year. They should impress against the leagueâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bottom team.

Olympic Blvd, Melbourne

PHILLIP ISLAND

Bayplay Lodge 46 Canterbury Jetty Rd, Blairgowrie. 03 5988 0188, bayplay.com.au

Prom Country Backpackers 03 5682 2614

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

Sorrento Foreshore Reserve Nepean Hwy, Sorrento. 1800 850 600, mornpen.vic.gov.au

Rawsom Caravan Park Depot Rd, Rawson. 03 5165 3439, rawsoncaravanpark.com.au

The Island Accommodation 10-12 Phillip Island Tourist Road. 03 5956 6123 theislandaccommodation.com.au

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GRAMPIANS Grampians YHA Eco Hostel Cnr Grampians & Buckler Rds, Halls Gap. 03 5356 4543, yha.com.au Timâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Place 44 Grampians Road, Halls Gap. 03 5356 4288, timsplace.com.au

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MELBOURNE BACKPACKERS EXPO If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re after some travel tips, great deals and the chance to win a stack of prizes (while also getting a free feed), then head to the Melbourne Adventure Travel and Backpackers Expo this Saturday and Sunday. Entry is free. Better yet, you might even spot us!

Royal Exhibition Building (Carlton). Noon â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6pm daily.

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

KATHERINE STAY BIG4 Katherine Holiday Park 20 Shadforth Road. 1800 501 984, big4.com.au

DON’T MISS!

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

KATHERINE DO

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

DARWIN DO Crocosaurus Cove Crocodile park and cage of death. 58 Mitchell St. 08 8981 7522, crocosauruscove.com Deckchair Cinema Jervois Rd, Darwin Waterfront. 08 8981 0700, deckchaircinema.com.au

ALICE DO Alice Springs Desert Park Larapinta Drive. 08 8951 8788, alicespringsdesertpark.com.au

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

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

Youth Shack 69 Mitchell St. 1300 793 302, youthshack.com.au

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

Palm Court Kookaburra Backpackers Giles St. 1800 626 722

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

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

Haven Resort 3 Larapinta Drive. 1800 794 663, alicehaven.com.au

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

ICE CUBE Botanical Gardens Ampitheatre. Tues, April 17. $TBC. Down Under for the Supafest tour, it will be worth timing your NT visit to coincide with that of one of the biggest hip hop titans of all time.

Gardens Road, Darwin 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

Alice Springs Reptile Centre Meet and hold lizards. 9 Stuart Terrace. 08 8952 8900, reptilecentre.com.au

ticketek.com.au Oz Jet Boating Stokes Hill Wharf. 1300 135 595, ozjetboating.com.au Spectacular Jumping Crocodile Cruise Adelaide River. 08 8978 9077, jumpingcrocodile.com.au Wave Lagoon Waterfront Precinct. waterfront.nt.gov.au

Outback Ballooning Hot air balloon rides. 1800 809 790, outbackballooning.com.au

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

Royal Flying Doctor Service Base Museum and operations room. Stuart Terrace. 08 8952 1129, flyingdoctor.net

ALICE SPRINGS Alice Lodge 4 Mueller St. 08 8953 1975, alicelodge.com.au Alice Springs YHA Cnr Parsons St & Leichhardt Tce. 08 8952 8855, yha.com.au Annie’s Place 4 Traeger Ave. 1800 359 089, anniesplace.com.au

School of the Air Long-distance schooling museum. 80 Head St. 08 8951 6834, assoa.nt.edu.au The Rock Tour Uluru tours. 78 Todd St. 1800 246 345, therocktour.com.au

WORD FROM THE STREET

Melanie Roth, Germany HIYA MELANIE. SEEN MUCH OF THE NT? “I’ve been all the way down from Darwin through Litchfield and Kakadu NP via Katherine Gorge to Alice Springs, Kings Canyon, Uluru and The Olgas.” WHAT WAS YOUR OVERALL HIGHLIGHT? “The Gunlom Falls in Kakadu! It’s an exhausting climb up the rocks but it’s absolutely worth it. Up there you can swim in a pool at the edge of the rock with a gorgeous lookout.” AND HOW ABOUT COME NIGHTFALL? “The best places we camped were Walker Creek, in Litchfield NP, and Koolpin Gorge, in Kakadu. Both are outback camping sites with no toilets, but that means you are nearly alone.”

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WALISTINGS

DON’T MISS!

@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

SCULPTURE BY THE SEA Cottesloe Beach. Thur, Mar 1 – Mon, Mar 19. Free. This brilliant and bizarre outdoor exhibition involves one of Perth’s city beaches being dotted with sculptures by artists from around the world.

Perth

sculpturebythesea.com

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, emperorscrown.com.au Globe Backpackers & City Oasis Resort 561 Wellington St. 08 9321 4080, globebackpackers.com.au Ocean Beach Backpackers 1 Eric St, Cottlesloe. 08 9384 5111, oceanbeachbackpackers.com.au

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

PERTH DO Aquarium of Western Australia 91 Southside Drive, Hillarys. 08 9447 7500, aqwa.com.au Kings Park & Botanic Garden bgpa.wa.gov.au Perth Mint 310 Hay St. 08 9421 7223, perthmint.com.au Perth Zoo 20 Labouchere Road, South Perth. 08 9474 3551, perthzoo.wa.gov.au

LADY GAGA Burswood Dome. Sat, July 7. $TBC. Listen up little monsters, your leader is coming! The multiple Grammy winner is returning to Oz for a four-city tour. On sale this Friday.

Great Easten Highway

PERTH MUSIC Amplifier amplifiercapitol.com.au Astor liveattheastor.com.au Mojo’s Bar mojosbar.com.au The Bakery nowbaking.com.au The Rosemount Hotel rosemounthotel.com.au

ticketek.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

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

FREO DO Fremantle Markets 08 9335 2515, fremantlemarkets.com.au Fremantle Prison 1 The Terrace. 08 9336 9200, backpackersinnfreo.com.au

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

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

KALGOORLIE-BOULDER

7 ,Ê -/Ê "-/ Ê Ê7 ÊÓääÇ -/ÊÓäänÊEÊÓää

For a genuine taste of both outback Australia and WA’s mining riches, you’d struggle to do better than stopping off at Kalgoorlie-Boulder. Born out of the 1890s gold rush, the fancy public buildings that line ‘Kal’s’ main street are testament to the treasures that lie beneath the ground. Indeed, you can still hear the daily 1pm mine blast at the Super Pit not far from town. It also happens to be the only town in Australia where you can do a tour of a working brothel. Be warned, however, that at about 550km north-east of Perth, ‘Kal’ is a long way from anywhere. It’s best seen on a stop-off while travelling on the Indian Pacific.

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TASLISTINGS HOBART STAY Central City Backpackers 138 Collins St. 1800 811 507, centralbackpackers.com.au

BOOK NOW!

Centre for Beer Lovers Boag’s Brewery, 39 William St. 03 6332 6300, boags.com.au

Hobart Hostel 41 Barrack St. 1300 252 192, hobarthostel.com

Queen Victoria Museum & Art Gallery 2 Invermay Rd & 2 Wellington St. 03 6323 3777, qvmag.tas.gov.au

Montgomery’s YHA 9 Argyle St. 03 6231 2660, yha.com.au

Tasmania Zoo 1166 Ecclestone Rd. 03 6396 6100, tasmaniazoo.com.au

Narrara Backpackers 88 Goulburn St. 03 6234 8801, narrarabackpackers.com

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

Pickled Frog 281 Liverpool St. 03 6234 7977, thepickledfrog.com

GUY SEBASTIAN

Transit Backpackers 251 Liverpool St. 03 6231 2400, transitbackpackers.com

Derwent Entertainment Centre. Sat, June 23. $TBC. On sale Fri. The king of Aussie RnB (who you might have spotted as a judge on The X-Factor), is touring his homeland for the first time in two years.

HOBART DO

Brooker Highway, Hobart

Cascade Brewery 140 Cascade Rd. 03 6224 1117 cascadebreweryco.com.au

PORT ARTHUR

Mt Wellington Descent Bike tours. 03 6274 1880 mtwellingtondescent.com.au

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

Salamanca Markets Every Saturday, Salamanca Place. salamanca.com.au

LAUNCESTON

Tasmanian Museum & Art Gallery 5 Argyle St. tmag.com.au

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

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

Bicheno Penguin Tours 03 6375 1333, bichenopenguintours.com.au

CRADLE MTN Discovery Holiday Parks Cradle Mountain Rd. 1800 068 574, discoveryholidayparks.com.au

LAUNCESTON DO Cataract Gorge launcestoncataractgorge.com.au

THRILL FINDER

BICHENO Bicheno Backpackers 11 Morrison St. 03 6375 1651, bichenobackpackers.com

Mt Roland Budget Backpacker Rooms 1447 Claude Rd, Gowrie Park. 03 6491 1385

CRADLE DO Devils at Cradle Tassie devil sanctuary. 3950 Cradle Mountain Rd. 03 6492 1491. devilsatcradle.com Overland Track Six-day walk parks.tas.gov.au

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

STRAHAN, Strahan YHA 43 Harvey St. 03 6471 7255, yha.com

STRAHAN DO Four Wheelers Henty Sand Dunes quadbike tours. 04 1950 8175, 4wheelers.com.au Water by Nature Extreme multiday whitewater rafting. 1800 111 142, franklinrivertasmania.com Wild Rivers Jet Jet boating. 03 6471 7396, wildriversjet.com.au

WORD FROM THE STREET

Vick Quin, England

GORDON DAM Daredevils can test their nerve by abseiling the 140m (as in 6m higher than the Sydney Harbour Bridge) sheer face of the giant Gordon Dam, in Tasmania’s west. The operator claims it’s the world’s highest commercial abseil, no less. The full day trip costs $210. While in the area, you can also go whitewater rafting, caving and kayaking.

aardvarkadventures.com.au

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HOWDY VICK. WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN IN TASSIE SO FAR? “We hired a car and spent five nights travelling around Tasmania. We flew into Hobart and then travelled to Strahan on the west coast to see the beautiful sunset. We then headed to Launceston, stopping at Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park en route. Our journey then took us to the east coast, where we visited the stunning Bay of Fires and Freycinet National Park to see Wineglass Bay. We also visited Richmond on our drive back to Hobart.” AND WHERE’S BEEN YOUR FAVE PLACE? “Wineglass Bay. It’s one of my favourite beaches in Australia… so picturesque.” WHERE DID YOU HAVE THE BEST NIGHT OUT? “There are some great bars with a good atmosphere along Hobart’s Salamanca Place.”

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ADELAIDE STAY Adelaide Oval Home to the Adelaide Backpackers Inn 112 Carrington St. 1800 24 77 25, adpi.com.au

COOBER PEDY Opal Cave Coober Pedy Hutchinson St. 08 8672 5028, opalcavecooberpedy.com.au

BOOK NOW!

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

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

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

KANGAROO IS

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

Kangaroo Island YHA 33 Middle Terrace, Penneshaw. 08 8553 1344, yha.com.au

ELBOW Thebarton Theatre. Thur, Mar 22. From $92.50. Catch the Manc maestros on their only South Australian stop of their tour Down Under, along with their buddies Bombay Bicycle Club.

112 Henley Beach Rd, Adelaide

venuetix.net.au

My Place 257 Waymouth St. 1800 221 529, adelaidehostel.com.au

Donald Bradman collection. War Memorial Drive. 08 8300 3800, cricketsa.com.au

Shakespeare Hostel 123 Waymouth St. 1800 556 889, shakeys.com.au

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

BAROSSA VAL

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

Barossa Backpackers 9 Basedow Road Tanunda. 08 8563 0198, barossabackpackers.com.au

ADELAIDE DO Adelaide Oval Home to the

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

RIVERLAND Berri Backpackers Sturt Highway, Berri. 08 8582 3144, berribackpackers.com.au Harvest Trail Lodge Loxton.08 8584 5646, harvesttrail.com.au

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

EYRE PENINSULA Coodlie Park Farmstay Flinders Highway, Port Kenny. 08 8687 0411, coodliepark.com Baird Bay Ocean Eco Experience Sea lion and dolphin swims. 08 8626 5017, bairdbay.com Calypso Star Charters Great white shark cage diving. 08 8682 3939, sharkcagediving.com.au Nullarbor Traveller Tours across to Perth. 1800 816 858, the-traveller.com.au Port Lincoln Tourist Park 11 Hindmarsh St. 08 8621 4444, portlincolntouristpark.com.au Rodney Fox Shark Expeditions Great white shark cage diving. 08 8363 1788, rodneyfox.com.au

FLINDERS RANGES

Nomads on Murray Sturt Highway, Kingston on Murray. 1800 665 166, nomadsworld.com

Angorichina Tourist Village 08 8648 4842, angorichinavillage.com.au

Riverland Backpackers Labour Hire Services 08 8583 0211

Wilpena Pound Resort Wilpena Rd. 08 8648 0004, wilpenapound.com.au

DON’T MISS!

ADELAIDE’S FESTIVAL SEASON For a state capital, Adelaide feels small, but it is uncrowded and attractive, priding itself on its culture, fine food, relaxed lifestyle and an ace collection of festivals. Luckily, three of the biggest of those festivals are about to roll into town. Firstly, starting next week, the Adelaide Fringe Festival arrives. Only Edinburgh can boast a bigger arts festival than this anywhere on the planet so expect the SA capital to be flooded with performers and spectators alike. It runs for almost a month, with many of the shows being free. Then, on March 2, Adelaide Festival kicks off as well. This one also covers theatre, music, visual arts and dance. Finally, for four days from March 9, WOMADelaide calls the city home. Celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, WOMADelaide is a giant get-together of world music acts. For much more detailed listings on what shows to catch, when and where, see next week’s TNT Magazine.

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NZLISTINGS

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BUS TOURS

AUCKLAND

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

BOOK NOW!

Flying Kiwi Wilderness Expeditions 1800 143 515, flyingkiwi.com

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

Kiwi Experience +64 9366 9830 kiwiexperience.com Magic Travellers Network +64 9358 5600, magicbus.co.nz

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

NZ Travelpass 0800 339 966, travelpass.co.nz

Base Auckland 229 Queen St. 0800 227 369, stayatbase.com

5.6.7.8’S

Stray +64 9309 8772, straytravel.com

Kings Arms Tavern, Auckland. Fri, Apr 27. NZ$45. The numerical band from Tokyo, if you haven’t heard them already, will be your favourite rockabilly girl band when you catch them live.

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

France St, Newton

undertheradar.co.nz

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

Escape Rentals 1800 456 272, escaperentals.co.nz

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

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

Explore More 1800 800 327, dcrentals.com.nz

Spaceships 1300 139 091, spaceships.tv

Darn Cheap Rentals 0800 447 363, exploremore.co.nz

Jucy Rentals 0800 399 736, jucy.com.nz

Standby Cars 1300 789 059, standbycars.com.au

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

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

Wicked Campers 1800 246 869, wickedcampers.com

Bamber House (BBH) 2 2 View Rd, Mt Eden. +64 9623 4267, hostelbackpacker.com Central City Backpackers 26 Lorne St. +64 9358 5685, backpacker.net.nz City Garden Lodge 25 St Georges Bay Rd, Parnell. +64 9302 0880

@tnt_downunder @tnt_downunder

Nomads Auckland 16-20 Fort St. +64 9300 9999, nomadshostels.com Oaklands Lodge (BBH) St. +64 5A Oaklands Rd, Mt Eden. +64 9638 6545, oaklands.co.nz Pentlands (BBH) 22 Pentland Ave, Mt Eden. +64 9638 7031 Queen Street Backpackers (VIP) 4 Fort St. +64 9373 3471, enquiries@qsb.co.nz Surf ‘n’ Snow Backpackers 102 Albert St. +64 9363 8889, surfandsnow.co.nz 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

Kiwi International Queen St Hotel and Hostel 411 Queen St. 0800 100 411, kiwihotel.co.nz

Base Wellington 21-23 Cambridge Tce. +64 4801 5666 stayatbase.com

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

Cambridge Hotel (BBH) 28 Cambridge Tce. +64 4385 8829 cambridgehotel.co.nz

IN THE SPOTLIGHT

MATAMATA This rural town, two hours south of Auckland, got an injection of tourism after those three little Lord of the Rings films were made. Matamata suddenly became ‘Hobbiton’, and Peter Jackson was kind enough to leave most of the set for people to explore. A tour of the location will let you visit some of the leftover hobbit holes which were fully recreated for The Hobbit film instalments last year. The set is on a private farm, which also offers sheep shearing demonstrations and scenic views of the picturesque Kaimai ranges. The town of Matamata itself is famous for local dairy farming, skydiving over the ranges and the Firth Tower, which was constructed in the 1880s to provide a lookout over the beautiful countryside.

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Downtown Wellington Backpackers (BBH) 1 Bunny St. +64 4473 8482 db@downtownbackpackers.co.nz

Point Break Backpackers (BBH) 99 Seaview Road. +64 3388 2050, pointbreakbackpackers.co.nz

DON’T MISS!

The Old Countryhouse (BBH) 437 Gloucester St. +64 3381 5504, oldcountryhousenz.com

Lodge in the City (VIP) 152 Taranaki St. +64 4385 8560 lodgeinthecity.co.nz Maple Lodge (BBH) 52 Ellice St. +64 4385 3771

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

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

Rucksacker Backpacker Hostel (BBH) 70 Bealey Ave. +64 3377 7931, rucksacker.com

Cardrona Alpine Resort Between Queenstown and Wanaka. +64 3443 7341, 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

Rosemere Backpackers (BBH) 6 McDonald Cres. +64 4384 3041, backpackerswellington.co.nz

QUEENSTOWN

Rowena’s Backpackers (VIP) 115 Brougham St. 0800 80 1414

Alpine Lodge (BBH) 13 Gorge Rd. +64 3442 7220, alpinelodge@xtra.co.nz

Nomads Queenstown 5-11 Church St. +64 3441 3922, nomadshostels.com

Aspen Lodge (BBH) 11 Gorge 11 Gorge Rd. +64 3442 9671, aspenlodge.co.nz

Pinewood Lodge (VIP) 48 Hamilton Rd. 0800 7463 9663, rgrieg@xtra.co.nz

ticketmaster.co.nz

Base Discovery Lodge St. +64 Queenstown 49 Shotover St. +64 3441 1185, stayatbase.com

Queenstown Lodge Sainsbury Rd, Fernhill. 0800 756 343, queenstownlodge.co.nz

Avon City Backpackers Worcester Street. +64 3389 6876, avoncitybackpackers.com

Jailhouse Accommodation (BBH) 338 Lincoln Rd. 0800 524 546, stay@kiwibasecamp.com

Black Sheep Lodge (BBH/VIP) 13 Frankton Rd. +64 3442 7289, blacksheepbackpackers.co.nz

Southern Laughter (BBH, VIP) 4 Isle St. 0800 728 448, southernlaughter.co.nz

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

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

Kiwi House 373 Gloucester St. +64 3381 6645, kiwihouse.co.nz

Bungi Backpackers (VIP, BBH) 15 Sydney St. 0800 728 286, bungibackpackers.co.nz

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

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

Foley Towers (BBH) 208 Kilmore St. +64 3366 9720, backpack.co.nz/foley

Marine Backpackers 26 Nayland St. +64 3326 6609, themarine.co.nz

Butterfli Lodge (BBH) 62 Thompson St. +64 3442 6367, butterfli.co.nz

YHA Queenstown Lakefront 8890 Lake Esplanade. +64 3442 8413, yha.co.nz

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

CHRISTCHURCH

BLUES VS CRUSADERS Eden Park, Auckland. Fri, Feb 24. NZ$20. If rugby is New Zealand’s religion then Eden Park is its cathedral. The the tri-country tournament gets underway next week so get involved. 10 Reimers Av, Kingsland

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FIJILISTINGS

TRAVELLING ON TO FIJI?

NADI & WEST Aquarius Pacific Hotel +679 672 6000 Beach Escape Villas +679 672 4442, beachscape@ connect.com.fj Cathay Hotel +679 666 0566, fiji4less.com Horizon Beach Resort +679 672 2832, horizonbeachfiji.com

mote Visit the re ds Fiji. there. re - it s all lan Yasawa Is l dive, kayak , explo e Chill, snork

dventures Awesome A rs

for backpacke

Nadi Bay Resort Hotel +679 672 3599, fijinadibayhotel.com Nadi Down Town Backpackers Inn +679 670 0600, pacvalley@connect.com.fj

ers

travell e v i t a n r and alte

Nadi Hotel +679 670 0000, ndht@connect.com.fj Nomads Skylodge Hotel +679 672 2200

nce the

o experie who want t

Saweni Beach Apartment Hotel +679 666 1777, fiji4less.com

‘real Fiji’

Smugglers Cove Beach Resort +679 672 6578, smugglers beachfiji.com Travellers Beach Resort +679 672 3322, beachvilla@connect.com.fj

ISLAND HOPPING PASSES ISLA

YASAWA ISLANDS

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

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

EASY FLEXIBLE PACKAGES

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

Explore the real Fiji. From 4 to 11 nights. Includes vessel transfers, accommodation, meals and activities. Packages from $410

Kuata Resort +679 666 6644 Long Beach Backpackers Resort +679 666 6644

ISLAND STAYPUTS

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

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

Nabua Lodge +679 666 9173 nabualodge@connect.com.fj Oarsmans Bay Lodge +679 672 2921, nacula@hotmail.com Octopus Resort +679 666 6337 reservations@octopusresort.com

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.

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Tabukula Beach Bungalows +679 650 0097, fiji4less.com The Uprising Beach Resort +679 345 2200, uprisingbeachresort.com Tsulu Luxury Backpackers & Apartments +679 345 0065, tsulu.com Vakaviti Motel & Dorm +679 650 0526, bulavakaviti@connect.com.fj Vilisite Place +679 650 1030

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 South Seas Private Hotel +679 331 2296, fiji4less.com Tailevu Hotel +679 343 0028

NORTH VITI LEVU Bethams Cottage +679 669 4132, bethams.com.fj Macdonalds Beach Cottages +679 669 4633

White Sandy Beach Dive Resort +679 666 4066

Volivoli Beach Resort +679 669 4511, volivoli.com

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

The Funky Fish Beach Resort +679 628 2333, funkyfishresort.com

TNT622- AAF2746

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

Seashell Cove Resort +679 670 6100, seashellresort.com

Safari Lodge Fijis +679 669 3333 safarilodge.com.fj

The Resort Walu Beach +679 665 1777, walubeach.com

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Robinson Crusoe +679 629 1999, robinsoncrusoeislandfiji.com

Wayalailai Island Resort +679 672 1377 wayalailai@connect.com.fj

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

info@awesomefiji.com

Rendezvous Dive Resort +679 628 4427, surfdivefiji.com

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

MAMANUCA ISL

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

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

Sunrise Lagoon Resort +679 666 6644

Beachcomber Island Resort +679 666 1500, beachcomberfiji.com

Daily departure l pa departuress ffor all packages and passes from Denarau Marina

Mango Bay Resort +679 653 00690, mangobayresortfiji.com

CORAL COAST Beachouse +679 653 0500, fijibeachouse.com

VANUA LEVU Bayside Backpacker Cottage +679 885 3154, tripntour@connect.com.fj Hidden Paradise Guest House +678 885 0106 Naveria Heights Lodge +679 851 0157, justnaveria@connect.com.fj Savusavu Hot Springs +679 885 0195, hotspringshotel@connect.com.fjj

TAVEUNI Albert’s Sunrise +679 333 7555 Matava Resort +679 330 5222, matava.com

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OZWORK

Dive the moral reef Want an alternative way to spend your Aussie trip? You can’t get more different than volunteering on a scientific dive expedition... So you’re craving something more than lying on a beach drinking goon cocktails? Volunteer work is a way of giving something back to the country you’ve grown to love and enriching your travels while you’re at it. Earthwatch has created a ‘Recovery of the Reef’ programme, which asks for volunteer divers to work with scientists to assess coral disease on the Great Barrier Reef. Working across a variety of coral dive sites, volunteers will conduct underwater surveys, tagging and photographing diseased areas, which will then be monitored over time to assess the condition of the coral. Sara Davis from Earthwatch is organising a team of 12 people to head to Orpheus Island, located 120km north of Townsville on the Great Barrier Reef. So where do you fit into this scientific journey? “You’ll help scientists conduct underwater surveys of the coral to help us answer the question of why coral disease is

spreading and the factors influencing its spread. Volunteers provide many hands to conduct this important research,” explains Sara. All you need is an Open Water dive certificate and the willingness to learn. “No training necessary. The scientists will take the volunteers through this,” she adds. You’re not only contributing to science, you’re gaining a once in a lifetime opportunity. As Sara says, “You’ll be learning about the issues and the potential solutions and seeing nature through the eyes of a scientist – often a fascinating and enriching experience.” Not to mention hanging out on the World Heritagelisted reef, in a part known for its secluded, sheltered bays, spectacular fringing reefs and stunning scenery. To sign up to the first programme (March 12), visit earthwatch.org. Participation costs $2,700 and includes accommodation, food and transfers to the island.

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OZWORK INTERVIEW WITH A VOLUNTEER national park. I wouldn’t have seen these places if I’d travelled on my own.

and For gay men s u o ri the bi-cu

How’s it compare to home? I work in customer service back home, so this is a nice break and something completely different. Plus I feel like I’m contributing to the protection of the environment.

D COME AN H US! PLAY WIT

Male erotic quired re masseuses nditions Excellent co management and friendly tion Sydney Loca

LAUREN NOBLE, 26 FROM THE USA

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Why Australia? I wanted to travel to places I’ve never been before. Volunteering provides good physical work and the opportunity to give something back. What exactly do you do? I have helped plant trees in a nature reserve in Geelong, removed old fencing on a property near Warrnambool, visited Phillip Island and helped remove woody weeds. Last week I was at Mt Buffalo helping with track maintenance in the

Any favourite moments? Seeing the penguin parade at Phillip Island. What are the good points? Travelling to places you wouldn’t see as a normal tourist, meeting new people from different countries and Australian locals, being physical and being outdoors. How do you cope not earning money? I had saved money before I came. The programme fees cover housing and food. Any tips? Be willing to get your hands dirty!

Are you female & traveling around Australia & want some more $$$ to enjoy yourself? How does $30/hour + tips topless waitressing or $1000’s of dollars a week exotic dancing sound?? No experience necessary! Absolutely no sex! Female management, clean & classy! Several locations mms photo to 0458 635052

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MYTHBUSTERS BOYS CLUB?

THIS WEEK’S QUIZ

LOVE IS IN THE AIR

During a leap year, women are Q 2.traditionally allowed to do what? a) Take their husband’s name in marriage b) Fall pregnant without being married c) Go without underwear d) Propose to their boyfriends

Pretty Woman is a love story Q 3.between a businessman and a what? b) Prostitute d) Blow-up doll

b) Egypt d) Tiffany’s

SUDOKU PUZZLE 4

3 8

4 5

8 7

1 6

5 1

In Korea on April 14, single people Q 8.commemorate Black Day. They mourn

opening weekend at the US box office? a) Valentine’s Day b) Bridget Jones c) Sex and the City d) Four Weddings and a Funeral

“MAP OF TASSIE”

6 7

a) Affection Day b) Cuddle Day c) Vengeance Day d) Independence Day

TNTDOWNUNDER.COM

This is a fairly controversial subject, with many believing that it is the ultimate taboo for women to play, or even touch, the wind instrument. However, in northern Oz, where didges are believed to have originated, there appears to be little truth behind this myth. Aboriginal men certainly have no problem with tourists who want to have a go. Traditionally only men will play the instrument in a ceremony, but women can happily have a blow informally. Although in some communities, especially in south-east Oz, it is believed to cause infertility.

3 8

ANAGRAM-ARAMA

AUSSIE-ISM

In Guatemala, Valentine’s Day Q 7.is know as what?

Is it true that women aren’t allowed to play didgeridoos?

Q 9. Which rom-com had the biggest

Q 5. Which profession receives the most amount of Valentine’s Day cards? a) Teachers b) Nurses c) Masseurs d) Chefs

6. Gone With The Wind was released in which year? a) 1936 b) 1937 c) 1939 d) 1941

this day by eating which item? a) Black rice b) Kimichi c) Broiled eel d) Black noodles

Q 4. Where is the film Casablanca set? a) Hollywood c) Morocco

WEEK

This is a term to describe a lady’s hair downstairs. So called because of Tasmania’s shape when you look at it on a map. Aussie’s swear it has nothing to do with Tassie’s wild, overgrown bushland...

THIS WEEK IT’S... VALENTINE’S PRESENTS YOU DON’T WANT 1. HERO GROAN 2. ABORT UP A KEEN 3. CURVE CLUE AN AM 4. WIN HINDER PATTERNS ANSWERS: 1. Gonorrhea 2. A break-up note 3. Vacuum cleaner 4. Dinner with parents

a) Geisha c) Dentist

OF THE

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

1. Valentine’s Day began in which year? a) 496 b) 921 c) 1527 d) 1906

MYTH

For trade enquires

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10/1/12 5:04:50 PM

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