In this issue - February 2014

Ideal for anyone who wants a good time, the Gold Coast is packed with enough fun for everyone in Australia, and then some. This stretch of golden beach on the southeast of Queensland offers sunshine, surf, exciting theme parks, extreme sports, and loads of shopping opportunities. Slightly to the west is the peaceful hinterland with rainforests and eco-friendly getaways.  These contrasts of calm rainforest and action-packed beach cities form a perfect getaway where visitors can have the best of everything – thrills when they want them, and serenity when they need it. Things to do It’s impossible to be bored on the Gold Coast. The list of things to do would be endless – skydiving, surfing, water-skiing, bush walking, vineyard tours, museums, dolphin encounters, gou...Read more

To many throughout the world, it must seem unfair that – in addition to having beautiful beaches and scenery, a warm hospitable climate and adorable fuzzy animals with pouches, Australia also has the best wines. In any country where reds or whites are appreciated, you are bound to encounter Aussie wines proudly adorning the shelves of the best shops, or prominently listed on the menus in fine restaurants. The reason – our wines are truly special. And many of the best Australian wines call The Barossa Valley home. The Barossa Valley is made up of several small towns, villages, and hamlets, each with their own unique character and historical significance. A short drive from Adelaide, the region is approximately 40km long by 40km wide and consists of such historic towns as Betha...Read more

The beautiful Southern Highlands region lies to the southwest of Sydney on top of the escarpment overlooking the South Coast.  The region enjoys four distinct seasons and stunning scenery ranging from native wilderness to cool misty pastures reminiscent of England, to hidden valleys with remarkable waterfalls.  All this and only 2 hours away from Sydney! There are many reasons why you should visit the Southern Highlands aside from its rolling green farmscapes and rugged natural beauty.  There are historic villages, superb gardens (and special events like the Tulip Festival held in late September when many gardens are open for display). There’s a wide range of accommodation - everything from farmstays to motels, and antique and book shops that entice you in - with enou...Read more

This delightful Tasmanian city nestled in the Tamar Valley is often nicknamed The Valley of the Senses. Some believe the reason for this nickname is the aromatic and colourful flowers of Cataract Gorge. Others consider the city’s reputation for fine wines and gourmet food to be the main reason. But in reality, it is due to all of these, as well as the caress of gentle breezes and lush moss, the sounds of rushing water in the Gorge during floods, and the songs of regional birds in the abundant bushland. Founded in 1805, this historic city is actually the third oldest in Australia (with Sydney and Hobart being the first and second respectively). It was originally called Patersonia, after Lieutenant Colonel Paterson (coincidentally, one of my distant relatives) but he later changed it ...Read more

  Apollo Bay lies on Victoria’s iconic Great Ocean Road and is less than three hours by car from Melbourne. Featuring stunning coastal scenery and nestled into rolling green hills, Apollo Bay is a treasure trove of things to see and do and features a wide range of accommodation options.  The Great Ocean Road stretches for 300km along the coast and is dotted with villages like Apollo Bay, which welcome the influx of visitors over the summer months and offer a range of experiences to enjoy, as well as glorious views around every bend of the road.   Featuring a variety of swimming and surf beaches, as well as a boat harbour, and with the marina home to a large fishing fleet, there is no shortage of attractions. Many visitors like to relax on the beaches, while...Read more

Take an exhilarating and informative walk through the beautiful Mornington Peninsula with experience...Read more