Holiday Destinations - Australia

Reason why you should visit Australia:
Australia, located in the Southern Hemisphere, is divided into eight territories and states. Each one holds something unique for the traveler.

Queensland

Fifteen regions make up this state including Brisbane and The Gold Coast. Queensland's coast has the famous Coral Sea and The Great Barrier Reef. Rainforests, beaches, wildlife sanctuaries, and even championship golf courses are part of this area. The Great Barrier Reef is easily accessible from Queensland.

New South Wales

Sydney, home to the 2000 Olympics, lies in this region. Here you can enjoy the city life, Aboriginal heritage tours, and plenty of shops and restaurants. The Snowy Mountains region offers breath-taking views. This is Australia's oldest and biggest state.

Tasmania

Separated from the mainland by the 240 kilometers or 150 miles stretch of Bass Strait, Tasmania is a land surrounded by water. Once bridged to the mainland, all that remains of that land bridge now are 51 islands surrounding Flinders Island. King Island, to the northwest of Tasmania, holds empty beaches and rocky coasts.

Victoria

Victoria is home to world-class wineries of the Yarra Valley. A two-hour drive from the city of Melbourne will take you to the natural habitat of seals and penguins located on Phillip Island.

Australian Capital Territory

Canberra, the capital of Australia, is often referred to as the bush capital because pockets of bushland reserve extend almost to the center of this city. Over half of the Australian Capital Territory is classified as national park or nature reserve. Some would claim that this territory alone is enough reason to answer the question "why visit Australia?"
Some of the attractions in this region include the Parliament House, Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery of Australia, and the National Museum of Australia.

South Australia

This territory will serve all of your nature-viewing desires.  Dolphins play in the ocean just minutes from the city of Adelaide.  Visit the heart of the Outback, just a few hours north of Adelaide, or fly south to Kangaroo Island to get up close and personal with sea lions, koalas, and kangaroos.
South Australia

Northern Territory

The Northern Territory's wonders include the National Parks Kakadu and Uluru-Kata Tjuta (Ayers Rock). Vine forests, lotus lilies, crocodiles, wallabies, and brolga can be spotted here. A walk in the desert or a visit to the infamous Outback town of Alice Springs, are a few of the marvels of this region.

Western Australia

Perth City offers the beautiful Swan River and Kings Park, an inner-city park.  For a frontier adventure, the North West holds rugged ancient land forms, rain forests, deep red gorges, vast cattle stations and pioneering personalities, as well as an ancient Aboriginal culture.

The Climate

Keep in mind that the seasons are the opposite of what they are in the northern hemisphere. In Australia, winter is June, July, and August. While it is great weather for skiing in Victoria and New South Wales, the beaches are cold. The best beach weather is during Australia's summer, which is December to February.

In Summary

Now that you see all that is waiting for you in this diverse country, you know the many answers to why visit Australia. While you may have only thought of Australia as the land with kangaroos and koalas, now you can add places like the Outback and The Great Barrier Reef to your list of why Australia should be your next vacation site. Start planning your trip!

The founder of Adelaide is Colonel William Light, whose statue is located at the Montefiore Hill, this city is surrounded by vineyards, in some way it remains the lyfestyle of Australia many years ago, the gardens, parks, the River Torrens, the churches and the buildings with colonial architecture gives Adelaide a peaceful atmosphere. And because of the churches Adelaide is also known as the 'city of churches', one of the main churches is St Peter's Cathedral. Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, has a population of over 1.5 million, is a small city but very elegant, located between the Adelaide Hills and the Gulf of St Vincent, has a colonial architecture and is well known as the city of food and wine, a quiet place that offers the tranquillity that a big city can't give you.
Many inmigrants had arrived to Adelaide and gave it a cosmopolitan look but the earlier German inmigrants gave Adelaide a romantic touch, and they also brought winemaking skills and established wineries, nowadays Adelaide has one of the best wine all around the world. Perth is the capital city of Western Australia, and the fourth largest city in Australia. Captain James Stirling founded Perth in 1829 and since then it served as the seat of Goverment of Western Australia. Perth area was once inhabited by Whadjuk Noongar, aboriginal people, in 1826 Perth was occupied by Europeans settlement and was known as Swan River Colony for many years, then the town was named Perth, because of Perth, Scotland. In goldrush days, 1890s, Noongar people were joined by miners to go to the goldfields. In 1901, Western Australia region joined the Federation of Australia.

Bathurst is one of Australia's oldest inland cities built at a site personally chosen by Governor Macquarie in 1815. In 1851 it was the scene of Australia's first gold rush and many fine buildings remain, a legacy of the era. The Victorian Renaissance court house with a double story portico and large octagonal central dome is now home to the Bathurst Tourist Centre which has a fine collection of pictures from the gold rush. A wing of Government House, built in 1817 by Macquarie is still standing and the home of Ben Chiffley a former Prime Minister is preserved as a national memorial.

Beechworth is one of Victoria's best preserved former gold mining towns, situated in the north-east of the state between Wodonga and Myrtleford, and is a popular detour when traveling along the Great Alpine Road between Wangaratta and Bright. Beechworth's commercial center extends along Camp Street and Ford Street, presenting an almost unbroken series of elegant buildings and historic shop-fronts, many of which date back to the 19th century. The post office was built in 1869, the former Bank of Victoria (now a gold jewellery store) dates back to 1857, and there are several historic hotels and churches located in the town center. The Historic and Cultural Precinct, located in Ford Street, is a major attraction, comprising of the town's old court house, telegraph station, town hall, a museum, and a dark cell which at one time housed the infamous bush ranger Ned Kelly. Adjacent to this precinct is the Beechworth Gaol, still in operation after having been built between 1859 and 1864. Beechworth is known for its attractive streets and parks lined with deciduous trees which create an intense colourful display in the autumn. La Trobe University's Beechworth campus occupies the site of the former Mayday Hills hospital (Beechworth Lunatic Asylum) which was established in 1867. Attractive gardens, located at the southern end of Albert Road. Located just east of Beechworth's commercial centre is the Lake Sambell Reserve. Fronting Albert Road, the reserve also includes a Chinese garden with a couple of ponds, honouring the district's Chinese gold rush pioneers. Lake Sambell is the starting point of the Beechworth branch of the Murray to Mountains Rail Trail walking and cycling path which links up with the main track that goes between Wangaratta and Bright. For a scenic drive close to the town centre, follow the one-way 5 kilometre Gorge Road route. It begins at the junction of Sydney road where the Golden Horseshoe Monument commemorates the election in 1855 of a local to parliament. It then runs along the edge of the Beechworth Historic Park with its network of walking trails, geological features and relics of the region's gold mining history including a powder magazine built in 1859 .The Bridge where Gorge Road crosses Spring Creek offers an interesting view of the creek as it cascades downhill along a rocky bed. Gorge Road ends at the Newtown Falls near Ford Street. A viewing platform provides good views of the falls and the Newtown Bridge which was constructed from granite in 1874. Beechworth's location at the foot hills of the Victorian Alps offers visitors the opportunity to explore a number of surrounding vineyards and to enjoy several scenic drives through the countryside in the area the area worth visiting are the Murmungee Lookout (south of the small town of Stanley), the Mount Stanley summit (7 kilometres south-east of Stanley) and the Mount Pilot lookout, around 15 kilometers north of Beechworth on the road to Chiltern.

Bellingen, Dorrigo & Urunga Welcome to the magic of Waterfall Way - world heritage wonders, wildlife and... well, wonderful people. Book your accommodation here and set out to discover the festive feel of Bellingen, the majestic marvels of Dorrigo and those sun-blessed beaches around Urunga - all on Australia's Coffs Coast. The people of the Bellinger live in one of the most picturesque valleys in Australia and the inspiration is apparent in the creativity of the locals. Every week you can catch great live entertainment and a vibrant festival program ensures highlights in all seasons. Take a stroll around Bellingen or Dorrigo to unearth gifted artists in one of the great range of galleries, emporiums and craft shops. Holiday Entertainment Bellingen has developed a reputation as the biggest little festival town in NSW. From the highly-acclaimed world music of Global Carnival in spring, to the swinging highlights of Augusts’ Bellingen Jazz & Blues Festival, the town swells as thousands flock to revel in the atmosphere. These events are complemented by  Camp Creative’s week of workshops in January, Bellingen Art Prize & the bi-annual, mid-winter color in motion at Flamenco Festival. In October, the Dorrigo Folk & Bluegrass Festival gets the plateau jumping, while Urunga turns it on for the Urunga Food & Wine Festival every Father's Day. You might think this festival program would keep the locals busy but they still find time to organise regular sessions showing off the talents of the many jazz, blues, folk & rock musicians from around the area.  Click here to search the monthly events calendar...Markets are a great place to measure the community spirit and you need go no further than Bellingen Community Markets, on the 3rd Saturday of every month to see the life of this thriving region. On the first and fourth Saturday, you can taste organic and regional produce at the Bellingen Produce Markets. Nature Trails & World Heritage the natural attractions and features of the region are almost endless as the coast and valleys rise into vast tracts of protected mountain rain forest. You can spot dolphins and whales, see kangaroos, koalas, platypus in their natural environment, or see a flying fox colony in downtown Bellingen. The extraordinary range of birdlife includes kookaburras, owls, crested hawks, pelicans, sea eagles, and cockatoos. The pristine waters of the Bellinger run through National Parks, Nature Reserves, rainforest and rugged gorge. All of these experiences are linked by one of Australia's top scenic drives, Waterfall Way.Gondwana World Heritage Area on the Waterfall Way Dorrigo National Park contains one of Australia's most accessible and magnificent stands of lush rain forests, World Heritage listed for their exceptional natural beauty, diversity and conservation significance. Perched on the dramatic eastern escarpment of the Great Dividing Range, the Dorrigo Rain forest Centre provides a hub from which to plan your rain forest experiences - from short elevated boardwalks to challenging wilderness walks.

Benalla is situated mid-way between Euroa and Wangaratta on the main road and rail route between Melbourne and Sydney. Benalla's busy commercial center begins at the eastern bank of Lake Benalla, mainly centred along the thoroughfare of Bridge Street and neighboring Nunn Street. Historic buildings in the town center include the Commercial Hotel (built in 1860), the town hall (1882) and the National Bank. In 1974, the Broken River, which the town lies on, was dammed, creating an attractive and wide waterway known as Lake Benalla. Swimming and boating activities are popular on the lake which is surrounded by parkland and walking tracks. On the western bank of the river lies the town's botanical gardens which feature an art gallery, the Sir Weary Dunlop memorial statue and Benalla's famous rose gardens which are home to a large variety of colorful roses. The eastern bank of Lake Benalla is lined with a recreational park adjacent to the council offices and a network of bicycle and walking tracks which traverse the several islands that exist in the lake. North-east of Benalla is the Winton Motor Raceway which hosts car, motorcycle and super kart racing. Near the raceway is Lake Mokoan. This artificial lake was created in 1971 by flooding an extensive wetland system resulting in a large body of water of almost 8,000 hectares in size which was used for irrigation and recreation purposes. Due to water quality issues, plans are in place to decommission the lake and return it back to its natural wetland state, providing a habitat for a diverse range of flora and fauna. The attractive holiday township of Bright is situated on the scenic Great Alpine Road between Porepunkah and Harrietville in the beautiful Ovens Valley. Bright is a popular tourist center due to its close proximity to the mountain and ski resorts of Mount Buffalo, Mount Hotham and Falls Creek, and other natural attractions such as the Alpine National Park and Mount Buffalo National park. The commercial center of Bright extends from the Great Alpine Road to the war memorial tower located at the roundabout in front of the Alpine Hotel, and then south along the wide boulevard of Ireland Street. The towering mountains of the Victorian Alps provide a scenic backdrop in all directions from the town centre. A number of attractive parks and reserves are located within Bright. Howitt Park stretches along the Ovens River from Star Road to Morses Creek, while Centenary Park continues along the Ovens River from the Morses Creek junction and out to Mountbatten Road. Both parks feature attractive picnic spots and grassy areas which extended right down to the river. There is a water slide and designated swimming area at the junction of the Ovens River and Morses Creek, accessible via a footbridge. To fully appreciate Bright, several lookouts located within the surrounding mountains provide good views over the town and adjacent forests.

Located mid-way between Ballarat and Ararat, Beaufort is situated in a rich pastoral district. Gold was first discovered around Beaufort in 1852 which saw the town's population rise dramatically, however it was short-lived with most of the alluvial gold gone around 10 years later. A number of historical buildings in Beaufort today date back to the gold rush days including the post office, several churches and the railway station. At the western end of Beaufort's commercial centre along Neill Street is an octagonal band rotunda which was built in 1908. On the other side of Neill Street at Livingstone Street is an attractive triangular shaped park with a war memorial surrounded by a rose garden. Off King Street, to the north of town, is the Camp Hill Reserve. It features picnic areas, a BBQ shelter and a lookout which offers scenic views across the countryside and towards town. Beaufort Lake, accessed via Lake Road to the south of town, is surrounded by parkland, recreational facilities Bendigo is Victoria's fourth largest city, located around 150 kilometers north-west of Melbourne. Bendigo has a rich and prosperous heritage dating back to the days when gold was discovered in the area in the 1850s. Since then, Bendigo has been the second highest producing goldfield in Australia and remains the seventh largest in the world. Bendigo's rich gold history has produced a city of unparalleled opulence and grandeur. Stunning architecture and manicured gardens are all symbolic of Bendigo. One of Bendigo's most elegant streets is Pall Mall in the city centre. At its southern end stands the grand Alexandra Fountain which was built in 1881 out of granite. Further along Pall Mall is the elaborate old post office (built between 1883 and 1887) which now houses the Bendigo Visitor Information Centre, and next door are the law courts (built between 1892 and 1896), also of similar architecture. On the corner of Pall Mall and Williamson Street is Bendigo's most famous hotel, the lavishly adorned Shamrock, which was built in 1897. Bendigo's shopping precinct extends along Pall Mall, Hargreaves Street (including the Hargreaves Mall), Queen Street, Williamson Street and tree-lined Mitchell Street. Attractions for visitors include the Central Deborah Mine complex which offers underground mine tours and the Talking Tram which takes passengers on an almost 5 kilometer journey passing many of the city's attractions. Rosalind Park, in the city's centre, features a lookout tower offering impressive views across Bendigo, while Bendigo's Sacred Heart Cathedral, built in 1896, is the largest Gothic cathedral in the southern hemisphere. Other attractions include several art galleries and the Golden Dragon Museum which is a tribute to the city's long history with Chinese people and culture. Bendigo city is situated in a fertile valley, surrounded by a number of hilly suburbs featuring wide tree-lined streets, bush land, and a several large reserves, creating a pleasant and green environment for residents and visitors. Welcome to Bendigo Impressive Victorian buildings line the wide streets of Bendigo, as a reminder of the rich history built from one of the world's most exciting gold rushes. Today there are new treasures to be discovered in this thriving city. Bendigo is a place where art, culture, food, wine and heritage attractions are in the abundance, as was the gold of the late 1850's. Every corner you turn in Bendigo reveals another living treasure; another vivid reminder of the city’s glorious and heady past – whether it is the outrageous opulence of a boomtown hotel, or the simple piety of a wooden church.  The best 19th century cities combine grant scale and fine detail and there are few better than Bendigo. Many of Victoria’s cities and towns owe their origins to the gold rushes of the 19th century and Bendigo is one of them.  In fact there was very little gold on the surface at all.  Most of it was far underground in rich quartz reefs stretching out over 3,600 hectares around the city. The gold rush began in 1851 when the first diggers rushed to the Bendigo fields and continued until 1954 when the last winch on the city’s last gold mine raised its last bucket of ore.  In recent years mining for gold has re-commenced deep under Bendigo and continues today. During the city’s first golden century, Bendigo became a melting pot with its own unique ethnic character – the Irish at St Killians, the Cornish at Long Gully and the Germans at Ironbark Gully.  These groups were just some of the many communities that helped to build Bendigo.  German architects W C Vahland and Robert Getzschmann, along with Bendigo born William Beebe, were responsible for many of the city’s finest buildings.  One of the most enduring and distinctive contributions was made by the Chinese.  Bendigo’s Chinese heritage is well represented to this day, with the Historic Joss House and the Golden Dragon Museum and Classical Chinese Gardens. The influence of the gold rush can be felt in the very fabric of the city.  Bendigo owes its broad and regular boulevards to the ambitious town plan prepared in 1854.  Other streets follow the paths beaten by fossickers as they followed gullies and leads in search of gold.  The city’s ostentatious public buildings and gardens attest to the flamboyance of the gold rush era.  So do the richly decorated privates homes. The Bendigo Pottery is justly famous, with its display and sales complex set around vast old beehive kilns.  The Bendigo Pottery was created by George Duncan Guthrie, a Scot who was an apprentice potter by the age of 12.  By 1888 11 kilns were in operation and the site employed 130 people.  Today domestic pottery is made in the historic kilns. The site offers a total tourist experience an Interpretive Museum, a sales gallery and café. Another rich aspect of the Bendigo cultural landscape is the Chinese history.
Bendigo is a grand and gracious city.  It was the place of one of the world’s most exciting gold rushes, with more gold found here 1850 and 1900 than anywhere else in the world.  The city is literally built on gold, gathered from the rich gold-bearing quartz reefs.  Around nine billion dollars worth of gold was found in Bendigo, making it the second highest producing gold field in Australia after Kalgoorlie, and seventh richest field in the world. Historic and elaborate bank buildings line the main streets, with gold smelter chimneys an ever-present reminder of the riches from the gold fields.  People came from across the world to seek their fortune in Bendigo in the mid to late 1800’s.  Alluvial gold was discovered along the banks of the Bendigo Creek in 1851 and resulted in a major gold rush. The discovery is usually attributed to Mrs. Kennedy and Mrs. Farrell, the wives of two of workers on the Mt Alexander North pastoral property. In Christmas 1851 there were 800 people on the field and by the following June, 20,000 diggers had arrived in the alluvial field. Alluvial gold production was dominant in the first ten years of the field to 1860 and is estimated to account for up to four million ounces or almost one fifth of the total gold won from the Bendigo goldfield. Deep, often speculative, shaft sinking remained the pre-eminent exploration tool throughout the early productive life of the field (1851 to 1954). Throughout the mining history of the Bendigo goldfield in excess of 5,000 shafts were sunk.  At least 140 shafts exceeded 300 m in depth, 67 exceeded 600 m, and 11 were over 1,000 m deep. The Bendigo goldfield represents the largest concentration of deep shafts anywhere in the world. To experience shaft mining, Central Deborah Gold Mine is a real gold mine that now operates as a tourist attraction. Pop on a hard hat with its miners light and take a mine experience tour 20 storeys below to Level 2 of the mine and learn about the fascinating history of gold mining in Bendigo. For the daring take an adventure tour to Level 3 of the mine. You'll climb ladders, operate drills and search for real gold. Yes you will be able to see gold in the quartz reef on the mine's tunnels. Central Deborah is the real thing! The Central Deborah Gold Mine was the last commercial mine to operate in Bendigo. In the period from 1939 to 1954 almost one ton of gold (929kg) was unearthed from the mine, worth around $17,000,000 AUS in today's prices.   The mine closed for a number of years until 1986 when it was re-opened for underground tours and miners once again ventured below with visitors to explore the fascinating tunnels below

Bourke On the banks of the Darling River almost 800km north-west of Sydney, the once thriving river port of Bourke was the highest town on the Darling from which barges filled with cargos of wool could be shipped downstream. Although surrounded by dry plains the town is surprisingly green owing to the irrigation for citrus orchards and cotton crops. Founded by explorer Thomas Mitchell, who in 1835 built Fort Bourke, a wooden stockade, where a cairn now stands, was laid out 25 years later and became a coach centre. The Carriers Arms was once a Cobb & Co Inn and temporary home to Henry Lawson in 1892. There are some fine examples of 19th century architecture including the old wharf, Manston lodge and St Ignatuis Church. Cobar is Located 700km west of Sydney Cobar sits on the edge of the outback and is headquarters for a shire covering 44 065 square km. A copper mining town founded in the early 1870's started as a mining camp of tents and huts and quickly reached its peak population of 10 000. Several buildings remain as reminder of it heyday, such as the Great Western Hotel which claims its verandah, over 100m long is the longest in Australia and the mining company's office which is now the Pastoral, Mining and Technological Museum. The town has been brought back to life with the building of a 135km pipeline from Nyngan bringing water to the once dusty town. Lightning Ridge. Famous for Black opals Lightning Ridge is the principle opal mining town in NSW. There are many old mines to visit and cutting demonstrations to watch. Amateur fossikers are welcome to try their luck. Artesian bore waters supply a minerals-rich bathing pool to relax in, and there are many local displays from arts and crafts to opals and jewellery. Brewarrinna. The small town of Brewarrina lies 100km east of Bourke on the Barwon River. The river was a natural fishery for the Aboriginal people and their fish traps, consisting of a complex pattern of partly submerged stone boulders, can still be seen. The Aboriginal Cultural Museum operates special walkabout tours which give an incredible insight into Aboriginal culture. Moree. Situated on the Gwydir River, Moree is famous for its Artesian Spa Baths which attract thousands of sufferers of rheumatism, arthritis and other disorders each year. The Moree Art Gallery houses an extensive collection of Aboriginal art. Narrabri. The cotton capital of Australia, Narrabri sits on a branch of the Namoi River and if visited in April-June the fields are covered with the "snow" of ripe cotton plants. Some attractions in the area include the Australia Telescope at Culgoora, just west of town, which is linked with other telescopes in western NSW and Mt Kaputar National Park to the east Orange, a town of leafy parks and trees is the center of a huge apple and pear growing industry.

Brisbane With the combination of a pleasant, temperate climate and relaxed and relaxed atmosphere, Brisbane attracts an enormous amount of travelers and tourists throughout the year. There is loads of tourist accommodation available in Brisbane, with the majority of larger hotels and apartments to be found in the city centre.
Gregory Terrace, Main Street, Southbank and Wickham Terrace. Visitors can also choose to stay in motels, hostels and bed and breakfasts that are located in East Brisbane, Fortitude Valley, Paddington, Petrie Terrace and New Farm – all within easy reach of reliable public transport including bus, ferry and efficient rail  service.
At night, the pace in Brisbane builds with the vast variety of entertainment including performances of major productions at the Queensland Cultural Centre, concerts, live music and dancing in the pubs and clubs, plus the excitement of trying your luck at the Conrad International Treasury Casino. Sports lovers can also enjoy a game of rugby league cheering on the broncos at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium or relaxing at a summer cricket match at the famous ‘Gabba’. So forget about the grey skies, cold rainy days and the frustration of traffic and crowds, Brisbane are a city where every day is a relaxed, sun day and arguably Australia’s most livable city.
Brisbane is the state capital of Queensland and is known as one of the most vibrant and fastest growing cities in Australia today. There is much love about Brisbane, situated in the north-east of Australia. Brisbane is a trendy cosmopolitan city that is home to varied types of scenery, including skyscrapers that are nestled amongst parkland and even boasts an artificial beach. Also known as the ‘river city’, Brisbane has a vibrant yet relaxed energy with so much to see and do and is the gateway to the sun, surf and beaches of the surrounding coastline. Both tourists and locals can enjoy the best of both worlds in Brisbane; there is an endless choice of restaurants, trendy boutiques, alfresco dining, cool bars, beautiful parks and outdoor markets. The Queen Street Mall, in the centre of the Brisbane, is always bustling with activity and busy shoppers whilst in the evening there is the opportunity to explore the many fine restaurant and their culinary delights.

If you like to unwind, Broome is your ideal holiday. Stroll on the world famous 22 kilometres of pristine white sand that is Cable Beach, and let the clear warm tropical waters of the Indian Ocean refresh you. Visit Gantheaume Point, home of the 130 million year old Dinosaur Footprints which can be seen at very low tides. While there, marvel at Anastasia’s Pool, this almost perfectly round pool was hand built by a former lighthouse keeper for his wife, Anastasia. She was crippled with arthritis and found relief in the pool. For tide times please contact the Broome Visitor Centre. On negative tides, the Dutch Flying Boat wrecks are visible. These wrecks remain as evidence of the flying boats sunk by the Japanese air raid on Broome during WWII in March 1942. At the time there were 16 flying boats at anchor in Roebuck Bay. Located 1km offshore from Town Beach the low tides reveal the corroding hulls of flying boats. Please check tide times with the Broome Visitor Centre. Relax on Town Beach and witness the spectacular “Staircase to the Moon”, a natural phenomena caused by the rising of a full moon reflecting off the tidal flats of Roebuck Bay. (Only visible during the months of March – October for 3 nights per month). Markets are held on the first 2 nights, to coincide with this event – a great place to absorb in the atmosphere.   Please contact the Broome Visitor Centre for “Staircase” times or check the Events page. At the intersection of Short Street and Carnarvon Street a sculptured bronze commemorative plaque has been erected in honour of the lives lost when Japanese Navy Aircraft struck the Flying Boats at anchor in Roebuck Bay on 3rd March 1942. Four life size statues are placed on the grassed area in Carnarvon Street – The Cultured Pearl and Hard Hat Diver Monument. The statues pay tribute to their involvement in establishing Broome as the centre of the world’s pearling industry in the early 1900’s.Balancing the memory of those who died in the air raids, Broome’s Japanese Cemetery is a poignant reminder of the Japanese contribution to Broome and pearling. Reflect on the dangers of the early days of diving, the final resting-place for over 900 pearl divers. For those who enjoy bushwalking, the Minyirr Park has a number of self guided colour coded walk trails to offer. Stroll through the bush and on to the beach and enjoy the cooling breezes and panoramic views of Minyirr (Broome).Be amazed by the ever-changing colours created by the ebb and flow of the tide in Roebuck Bay. The scenery is spectacular. Find a cool place to sit back, relax and … let yourself go.Broome WA is an exotic pearling town and offers some deliciously indulgent eco-resorts, dotted across its spectacular landscape.Broome's Cable Beach, with 22 kilometres of white sand, kissed by warm, crystal waters, is justifiably world famous and the ideal place to watch the sunset on a balmy, tropical night.
From fiery red ochre cliffs contrasting with bright turquoise waters to pearl diving sagas and dinosaur footprints - the history of Broome is as captivating as the scenery. Situated in the State's far north, a two and a half hour flight from Perth, it's an oasis of colour, culture and eclectic characters. The chilled out vibe, colourful lifestyle and vibrant landscape have made Broome a Mecca for artists, writers and musicians. The town's multicultural mix was shaped by a romantic pearling history when Japanese, Filipino and Malay pearl divers arrived in droves seeking their fortune. Today, thanks to Broome's unpolluted waters, South Sea pearls are among the most coveted in the world. Witness first-hand how Broome pearls are cultured at a local pearl farm. Pearl showrooms line the streets of Chinatown - splash out on a pearl (or two!) as the ultimate memento of your trip. This is also where you'll find art galleries, shops and cafes - the perfect place for some retail therapy. One of Broome's natural treasures is the Staircase to the Moon. For three days after the full moon from March to October, reflections stretch out across shiny mudflats creating the beautiful illusion of a long silver staircase. Another interesting natural attraction is Gantheaume  Point, where you can see dinosaur footprints believed to be more than 130 million years old. Accommodation-wise, there are plenty of plush hotels, up-market resorts and eco retreats to choose from. Cable Beach is renowned as one of the most stunning beaches in the world, with 22 kilometres of pristine white sands fringing the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Washed clean every day by tides that can reach over nine metres, Cable Beach provides the ideal safe environment for swimming and relaxation. Caution however is required when stingers may be present.

Byron Bay is the eastern most point of Australia 's mainland on the New South Wales ' north coast. It is famous for its alternative lifestyles and attracts people from all walks of life. Captain James Cook named the area on May 15, 1770. He named the area Byron after John Byron, the grandfather of Lord Byron (the famous poet) and a navigator. Byron Bay was once a whaling station and is still a popular stop for tourists to go whale watching and experience some of the world's best eco tourism. It is now home to people from all socio economic levels and is a world class holiday resort with its magnificent beaches. Byron Bay has a subtropical climate all year with the cooling coastal winds in summer a relief. Cape Byron is a 107 meter high rocky promontory at Australia 's most eastern point. It protects Byron Bay and the Cape Byron lighthouse stands tall upon its top. Its light beams more than 40 km out to sea to warn sailors to beware of the treacherous coastline. While you explore the Byron Bay area, take a walk to the top of the Cape and take in the breathtaking views. If you are feeling really brave, try jumping off and hang glide your way to the bottom. Take a stroll from the lighthouse through 47 ha of remnant vegetation down to the old whaling station at the coast. During July and September, you can watch the humpback whales migrating off the coast. The Julian Rocks Marine Park is an underwater wonderland for divers to explore. It is where temperate and tropical currents meet. This area became part of Cape Byron Marine Park in 2002. Byron Bay is a place of mystery, myth and legend. Stories of the sailors and the traditional owners of the land are legendary. It is famous for relaxed its lifestyle and has many interesting people living in the area. Throughout the Byron Shire, you will find the markets in towns like Mullumbimby, Brunswick Heads and Byron Bay. These local markets come alive with singers, dancers and musicians while the local falafel vendor competes for customers against the hot dog seller next door. And hand in hand with this cultural mix come the music and the music festivals. The accommodation is as diverse as the locals. Staying at Byron gives you the best of both worlds with the Gold Coast only 40 minutes up the road.

Cable Beach takes its name from the telegraph cable that was laid between Broome and Java in 1889 and today it provides the perfect location to enjoy the magnificent Broome sunsets. There are a variety of water sport activities available. For a really unique experience you can join the sunset camel rides that operate daily along the beach. A playground on Cable Beach Reserve will keep the children amused while parents soak up the relaxed atmosphere and spectacular views. With the ocean as its backdrop, the outdoor Cable Beach Amphitheatre plays host to a wide range of cultural events throughout the dry season and is a popular location for picnics during sunsets.With restaurants nearby, a visit to the beach can extend into a leisurely lunch or dinner as you unwind and let yourself succumb to "Broome Time”. At Gantheaume Point near Broome see ancient dinosaur footprints that are more than 120 million years old. You can see the footprints in the rocky reef area when the tide it low. A plaster cast of the tracks has been embedded at the top of the cliff for anyone who visits at high tide, or if you don’t want to walk on the reef. As well as harbouring these unique dinosaur footprints, Gantheaume Point offers stunning coastal scenery. Here, the fiery red cliffs meet the turquoise water of the Indian Ocean in dramatic fashion. On the northern side of Gantheaume Point is Anastasia’s Pool. This rock pool was built by a former lighthouse keeper for his wife who was crippled with arthritis. Gantheaume Point is a five minute drive from the centre of Broome.

Cairns - Queensland
Cairns, as the primary  gateway and jumping off point for the surrounding regions and activities, is a delightful cocktail of early twentieth century building and modern architectures, a laid back sleepy harbour our laced with the sophistication  of artistic talent, world class restaurants and theatre. To the north of Cairns, the balmy town of Port Douglas, once a lazy seaside fishing village, has blossomed and now glows in the attention of visitors from around the world. In recent times this has included film and sporting stars, heads of multi-national companies and leaders of the world’s most influential countries. Lying just off the coast of The Tropical North, the Great Barrier Reef extends over 1,500 kilometres, and is home to the greatest variety of flora and fauna species found in any one location in the world. The scope of the reef is magnificent, encompassing some 21,900 individual reefs and hundreds of continental islands, reef islands and cays in an area of 348,000 square kilometers, larger than the combined total area of Ireland and the United Kingdom! The Great Barrier Reef, now a national marine park, provides the most awe inspiring recreational activities of snorkeling, diving, swimming and coral viewing. Exploring the reef is exhilarating experience. Cruise and dive operators are highly conscious of eco-tourism and the sustainability of the most beautiful natural phenomenon. The rainforest of the Wet Tropics, regarded buy world authorities as a living museum of flora and fauna, were World Heritage listed in 1988. The West Tropics cover area of nearly 900,000 hectares of rainforest and tropical vegetation, stretching for more than 400 kilometers from just north of Townsville to just south of Cooktown. Here, pockets of primitive plants have remained undisturbed for millions of years, and rare, even previously unidentified species of birds, insects and mammals have emerged to delight biologist and nature lovers. Bushwalking along well maintained trails, Aboriginals & Torres Strait Islander interpretive heritage tours, ranger-guided walks; all terrain vehicle tours with commentary by qualified biologists are just some of the ways to experience the rainforests of the Tropical North. Many operators offer excellent one day 4WD nature safaris north to Daintree and Cape Tribulation National Parks, and west to the Tropical Tablelands. To the west, Queensland’s’ Gulf Savannah is world renowned for its diversity, and as Australia’s great frontier land, typifies the romance of the legendary outback immortalised in Australian folklore. History is forever preserved here in frontier towns such as Normanton, Croydon and Forsyth. To the north, Cape York Peninsula is sparsely populated wilderness and the northern most tip of Australia. A popular getaway for those who like to escape the ‘rat race’ the Cape is a place to camp by waterfall or billabong, watch the sunset, catch a barramundi or explore the ancient Aboriginal art galleries.Cairns is the gateway to the Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef region and the perfect base for you to explore the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef, Daintree Rainforest and Riversleigh Fossil Fields. Just inland from the coast is the serene setting of the Cairns Highlands, with farmlands, rainforest, lakes and waterfalls. From Cairns, beaches stretch along the coast, with Mission Beach to the south and north to Palm Cove, Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation. Start at historical Cooktown and head up to the Cape York Peninsula to the geographical tip of Australia in the north and see one of the world’s last true wilderness areas. Just off the coast you’ll find ten of the Islands of the Great Barrier Reef, nestled in azure waters. Whether it's a life changing adventure or an indulgent tropical break, this stunning region offers you a magical and unforgettable experience. Few places on earth can boast such unique natural attractions with the Great Barrier Reef offering an underwater treasure trove of dazzling coral and sea life, and superb World Heritage listed tropical rainforests within easy reach. Townsville is a vibrant region that encompasses beautiful coastal towns, rainforests, rugged Outback and country terrain. But the appeal of this region expands from the city of Townsville and beyond. The Great Barrier Reef sprawls to the east, the Outback beckons to the west, islands and rainforest entice to the north while sugar cane and mango farming communities tempt in the south. Bringing together the regions of Capricorn and Gladstone, Central Queensland offers you a blend of laidback Queensland country charm amidst diverse natural beauty. A combination of coastal cities, islands, rainforest and gem fields, Central Queensland offers a vast array of experiences, just waiting to be had. Visit Rockhampton for a mouth-watering steak and share in friendly conversation with locals at a country-style pub. Embrace Australia’s heritage on a self-drive tour of the quaint country towns and uncover rainforest gorges, stunning lakes and long unbroken sandy white beaches, stretching out to the Southern Great Barrier Reef. Bask in the sun at beaches along the Capricorn Coast and experience a truly Colourful characters, a proud history and a landscape which seems endless in time and space - this is Queensland’s Outback. An amazing country of red hills, plains that stretch to eternity, and spectacular sunsets. A place where characters share a yarn and people say g’day. A land of the dreamtime, where ancient Aboriginal culture is recorded on rock faces and cave walls, and where evidence of the dinosaurs’ once reign over the earth can still be found. A variety of accommodation is available ranging from five star hotels to backpacker hostels and Outback pubs.

Canberra also hosts several social and cultural institutions of national importance. The federal government contributes the largest percentage of Gross State Product and gives the major part of employment in Canberra. Canberra is also a popular destination for domestic and international tourists who find in this city a perfect place to have their vacations alone or with their family.Canberra's climate has four very clearly defined seasons, hot, dry summers, and mild winters with heavy fog and frequent frosts, with a rare spot of snow in the CBD and surrounding areas. Snow falls in the city occur one time every three winters approximately, but they don't last much time and quickly dissipates, thunderstorms can occur between September and March and maybe you'll get afraid of some of them.Canberra is Australia's federal capital with a population of over 332,000, was established as part of the Australia's federation in 1901, is Australia's largest inland city, situated half way between Sydney and Melbourne, is surrounded by a semi-circle of hills (Mount Ainslie, Red Hill, Mount Pleasant, Black Mountain), in this city are located the national parliament, federal government departments, the Australian War Memorial, the High Court of Australia and several other important institutionsCanberra - Australia's Capital region
Canberra became the site for the newly federated nation of Australia in 1908 by a ballot in Parliament after extensive searching. The Indigenous peoples of this area have lived here for over 20,000 years. Since then the city has grown to become the proud home of the Australian story. Canberra is a fantastic base from which to explore the many treasures of the surrounding region. Explore historic townships, natural wonders, beautiful coastlines and the famous Snowy Mountains. So allow enough time to linger longer and enjoy all the nation’s capital has to offer In 1908, the Federal Parliament designated the territory for the national capital and annexed further land at Jervis Bay on the New South Wales coast so the national capital could have a seaport. Fertile farming lands, the Great Dividing Range and alpine peaks surround the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).The territory has an abundance of nature with 53 per cent of the total area preserved as Nature Park and reserve. Our clean air comes from extensive forests and pure water comes from the Cotter River fed by pure rain and snowmelt. Canberra, the urban centre of the ACT, is a thriving modern city of 347,000 people. Just 45 minutes drive from the city is Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve offering walking trails, ranger-guided activities, Australian animals in their natural habitat, delightful wildflowers during spring and rich Indigenous and pioneer heritage. Explore the purity of Namadgi National Park, a 45 minute drive from the city. Situated at the northern end of the Australian Alps, this park is perfect for a picnic or bushwalk along the numerous marked trails, to experience native flora and fauna and enjoy spectacular wildflowers in spring. There is over 20,000 years of human occupation in the mountains which means it has been a natural destination for longer than the Great Pyramids! The Indigenous rock art and Aboriginal shelters are easily accessible. Camping is possible in pleasant bushland settings with fishing, mountain biking and horse riding permitted in designated areas. See for yourself the great things that come with the Australian Capital Territory. See yourself reflected in your nation’s capital, Canberra. Discover the home of the Australian Story in Canberra, where national attractions and hidden gems deliver an array of unexpected delights. The city’s national museums and attractions hold and share the treasures of our nation. See our country and people through the eyes of our artists, and experience Australian character through sound and film, books and exhibitions. Celebrate Australia’s proud sporting achievements, delve into our political history, Indigenous culture and reflect on our young nation’s experience on the international stage. Home to 347,000 people, Canberra is one of the world’s few planned cities, a city in a park, with a kaleidoscope of colours and experiences turned by the changing seasons

Coffs Coast is the regional tourism destination taking in Coffs Harbour and Bellingen on the Mid North Coast of NSW, approximately halfway between Sydney and Brisbane. The vibrant city of Coffs Harbour is the main regional centre. Activities: From lush World Heritage-listed subtropical rainforests to the temperate waters of the Solitary Islands Marine Park, there are plenty of outdoor activities such as bushwalking, four-wheel driving, scuba diving, surf rafting, whale watching, fishing, swimming, surfing and activities. Attractions: Discover a World of Bananas at The Big Banana, be kissed by seals at the Pet Porpoise Pool, learn all about butterflies at the Butterfly House, take a helicopter joy flight, try go-karting or skirmish. Relaxation: Browse local art galleries and hinterland markets, do a spot of shopping, enjoy a coffee or meal at a cosmopolitan-style café, stroll along a foreshore or coastal boardwalk, play a round of golf, hire a bicycle or explore our trails. Accommodation: Coffs Harbour holiday accommodation options include hinterland B&Bs, beachfront resorts, boutique holiday/beach houses, central self-contained apartments, motels, hostels, and beach-side cabins and camping grounds.Search & book Coffs Harbour accommodation online Cohuna Cohuna lies within a rich, irrigated agricultural area, south of the Murray River between Kerang and Echuca. The town's commercial centre extends along one side of King George Street and spills into adjoining Market Street and Cullen Street. The other side of King George Street fronts Garden Park - an attractive strip of parkland and trees which extends down to the shores of the wide waterway of Gunbower Creek. In the middle of the creek is the Millennium Fountain, Cohuna's tribute to welcoming in the year 2000. Cohuna's main natural attraction is Gunbower Island, accessed via Cohuna Island Road. Formed by the Gunbower Creek branching off the Murray River then rejoining it further downstream, Gunbower Island is claimed to be Australia's largest inland island. It has a water frontage of 130 kilometres and is mostly covered by native forests and wetlands, making it an ideal spot for camping, picnics, fishing, boating and bushwalking. Southcoast New South WalesThis premier region of Australia's premier state begins as you travel south from Sydney along our spectacular coastline or south west through the Southern Highlands and Southern Tablelands towards Canberra, Australia's capital. The region offers a magnificent diversity of coastal, forest, mountain and rural country. Its natural, unspoiled environment provides the atmosphere for a peaceful, relaxing or adventurous visit in contact with Australia's unique flora and fauna. The variety of natural experiences and the mildness of our climate identifies the South Coast as an all-season destination. The South Coast also takes pride in the richness of our cultural assets. From our many festivals; our extensive and quality artistic scene; our several craft and artisan villages as well as our unique indigenous and European heritage, the region offers a much broader dimension to the visitor, to complement the attractions of our beautiful natural environment. Enjoy National Parks, untouched beaches, spectacular wilderness, rivers and mountains, the rural life and big skies of the hinterland, with easy access to Australia's premier snowfields and alpine wilderness or to our modern capital city with its famous parks, lakes and public building.

DARWIN
Boasting a relaxed outdoor lifestyle, Darwin enjoys warm weather all-year round and is a vibrant tropical harbour
city. In Darwin you will find:A multicultural mix of alfresco restaurants and outdoor markets offering tropical
delights. A rich and interesting history of World War II artefacts and preserved sites. The renowned Museum and Art
Gallery of the Northern Territory. OUTER DARWINJust out of Darwin is a wealth of nature and culture experiences. In
Outer Darwin you will find: Massive barramundi and families of turtles swimming in the shady Howard Springs. The
Mary River National Park en route to Kakadu where you can spot wildlife, fish for barramundi and go bushwalking.
Jumping crocodile cruises on the Adelaide River, where huge crocs leap from the water for bait right before your eyes.

TIWI ISLANDSExplore the Tiwi Islands, just a 35-minute flight or two-hour ferry ride from Darwin, as part of a one
-day or overnight tour. On the Tiwi Islands you will find: Aboriginal art galleries featuring authentic and
valuable Tiwi art, pottery, sculptures and wooden carvings. The Tiwi Islands Football Grand Final and Art Sale held
annually in March. This is the biggest event of the year for the football-loving Tiwi people. The Tiwi Ladies, who
will prepare a morning tea of damper and billy tea straight from the fire. Dense rainforest, sandy beaches and rock
pools to swim in.
ADELAIDE RIVER AND BATCHELORHeading south along the Stuart Highway, travellers can stop at the small townships of
Batchelor and Adelaide River. At Adelaide River you will find: The Adelaide River war cemetery, which is Australia’s largest war cemetery and a sombre reminder of the Northern Territory’s role in World War II. Delicious barra and chips at the Adelaide River
Pub – a true Territorian meal at a real outback pub.At Batchelor you will find: The Butterfly and Bird Farm and the
Coomalie Cultural Centre. Accommodation to base yourself while visiting Litchfield National Park.Litchfield
National Park, on Darwin's doorstep, is a myriad of glistening rock pools and gushing waterfalls, surrounded with
lush monsoon forest. Much like the many native birds, visitors to the NT flock here year round, eager to cool in
the cascades. Day-trippers love to picnic at the idyllic Florence and Wangi Falls, before setting off on a walking
trail. A trip to the viewing platform of the massive Tolmer Falls is a must-do. An easy hour and a half’s drive
from the capital, the majority of Litchfield is accessible by car, but if you want to access some of the less
visited sites, like Tjaynera Falls and the Lost City, you’ll need a 4wd. Not far from the cascades, you’ll spy the
unusual magnetic termite mounds. These thin towers, all aligned north to south, are intriguing - take a guided tour
to discover their secrets.
Darwin oozes that laid back feel so many crave in this highly stressed world. Edged with palm trees and a
shimmering blue ocean, Australia’s most northern capital is an ideal holiday destination to relax or explore!
markets, wharf side eateries and Aboriginal art centresGo on a sunset cruise, jump on a Darwin City Sights tour,
walk along Darwin’s WWII trail, visit musuems, ride a bike along the Esplanade or visit one of the wildlife parks!
Darwin is the gateway to innumerable treasures. An hour’s travel will get you to the tropical Tiwi islands and
their unique indigenous artists, the plunging waterfalls of Lichfield National Park, the jumping crocodiles on
Adelaide River, and the bottomless natural pools at Berry Springs. Head out on a tour with knowledgeable guides or
pick a hire car and do some exploring yourself - the options are endless, you'll want to stay longer! You get a
certain thrill when you watch hundreds of birds simultaneously take flight, flapping above tropical green wetlands
and over rocky escarpments emblazoned in red. the water sloshing at your sides. Then the heart pound as a four
metre long crocodile glides silently towards your tour boat, eyeing you carefully from below. Kakadu combines
ultimate beauty with a mix of excitement and wonder, each feeling enhancing the other. While it seems remote, World
Heritage Listed Kakadu is only three hours drive from Darwin, and all key visiting spots are manned with tour
guides and information panels. Don’t miss a magical sunrise boat cruise on wildlife rich Yellow Waters, or the
ancient Aboriginal rock art sites at Nourlangie Rock. A stone’s throw away is Anbangbang Billabong, filled with
waterbirds, and for rocky adventures and plunging waterfalls, head to Jim and Twin Falls and soak it up. The
unusual, yet beautiful sight of gigantic granite boulders silhouetted against a blood red sky allures travellers
from around the world to the Territory’s ochre centre. The Devils Marbles, 100kms south of the town of Tennant
Creek, have been eroded over millions of years and are known to the local Aboriginal people as Karlwe Karlwe. This
is a sacred site for the traditional land owners, the Warumungu, who believe the rocks are the eggs of the Rainbow
Serpent, an important dreamtime figure. Access to the site is fantastic, with numerous walking tracks marked with
information panels to guide you. There’s a still and calming silence that you’ll feel as the sun goes down and the
evening’s colours evolve. Continue on to the township, where you can learn about the area’s more recent history:
that of a significant gold rush. Fossick for your fortune and feel the sands of the outback get under your
fingernails, as well as your skin.

Dubbo At the Junction of the Newell and Mitchell highways, is the thriving centre of the Western Plains area. First settled in the 1840's when a store was opened on the banks of the Maquarie River by Jean Emile de Bouillon Serisier it became a stopping point for settlers heading out in search of a "better land" and for cattle mobs being herded south to the Victorian markets of the day. Many fine old buildings remain in the town including the National Trust's Dundullimal Homestead, an 1880's classical court house with massive columns and the 1876 bank which now houses a good local museum. One of the main attractions of Dubbo is the world renowned Western Plains Zoo which presents over 800 exotic and native animals in large open exhibits, landscaped to recreate their natural habitat.

Horsham is the largest city in the Wimmera wheat growing and sheep grazing district in western Victoria. It is located between Stawell and Dimboola, on the main highway linking Melbourne and Adelaide. Set on the banks of the Wimmera River, Horsham features a large commercial centre that lies mainly between Firebrace Street and Darlot Street. The city includes an art gallery, botanical gardens and several attractive parks along the river. Weir Park, at the western end of town is a popular spot, named after the weir which spans the Wimmera River at this point and also features a boat ramp. Surrounding Horsham are vast wheat fields, pastoral land, and colourful fields of wildflowers. To the south-east, along the Western Highway, are the Wimmera Lakes which form part of the Wimmera-Mallee irrigation system. Green Lake offers a swimming beach and boat ramp, but is not always full of water. Horsham is a handy base to explore the region's nearby natural attractions which include the Grampians National Park, the Little Desert National Park, and Mount Arapiles which is located 35 kilometres west of Horsham via Natimuk and is widely regarded as one of the top rock climbing areas in Australia. The small town of Kaniva is located in the far west of Victoria, 25 kilometres from the border with South Australia and on the main highway between Melbourne and Adelaide. Kaniva's major thoroughfare is the Western Highway which is known as Commercial Street through the town centre, and it is lined with historic buildings and shopfronts. At the western end of the shopping precinct is the local visitor information centre and a large windmill which symbolises the town's use of its abundant underground water supply. Just west of the town centre is a fauna and wetlands park where native animals including emus and kangaroos can be observed. The Kaniva Car Museum hosts Australia's largest privately owned collection of Holden Monaros and Toranas, plus car memorabilia. The Kaniva Historical Museum displays an extensive range of household items and farming relics from the local area. Lake Bolac is a small town located between Hamilton and Ballarat within a rich wheat growing and cattle area in the west of the state. The Lake Bolac town centre features a collection of shops and a few historical buildings including the Lake Bolac Hotel, which was built out of Bluestone in 1862, and the town's memorial hall which dates back to 1922. The local tourist information centre is situated in a within an attractive park on the corner of the Glenelg Highway and the road to Ararat. The primary attraction in Lake Bolac, known locally as the "Home of Aquatic Sports" is the 1460 hectare freshwater lake which shares its name with the town. The lake is ideal for boating, while fishing and camping are popular along its 20 kilometre shoreline which features picnic areas, BBQs and swimming beaches.

In love with Launceston. Perfectly placed for discovering the distinctive cool climate wines of Tasmania’s Tamar Valley, Launceston also has a vibrant culture where history meets a contemporary urban edge, Foodies discovered Launceston long ago – great food goes hand in hand with the vineyards and the city boasts providores, a French patisserie and signature restaurant such as Stillwater at Ritchie’s Mill. You’ll definitely dine well as Tasmanian lamb,beef,venison.oysters from east coast leases, ocean trout,cheese,nuts,vegetsables, fruit herbs and even locally grown wasabi are all available for chefs to work their magic. Among Launceston’s feature are the regenerated Launceston Seaport and Cataract Gorge, a 15 minute walk away, with the world’s longest single span chairlift, walking and hiking trails, rock climbing and stunning views. Backing the city, don’t miss the Queen Victoria Museum highlighting many aspects of life in Tasmania and with a beautiful collection of Aboriginal shell necklaces. Drop in to 1842 Gallery to see Tasmanian glass, art and furniture hand crafted from Tasmanian timber. 1842 is also the starting point for Launceston Historic Walks. Out and about in the area visit fascinating Seahorse World. Boags Brewery and check out the Tamar Valley Touring Rout from Launceston to Bass Strait.

Margaret River WA was originally a chilled out surfie town, but has evolved into the ultimate smorgasbord of fine wine, good food and spectacular scenery – just a three-and-a-half hour drive south of Perth. No trip to Western Australia is complete without a pit stop at Margaret River. There's a fine supply of world-class wineries, boutique breweries, and restaurants overlooking sweeping vineyards and surf breaks. The wine is definitely top notch - the region produces less than one per cent of Australian wine, but wait for it - over 15 per cent of the country's premium wine. And with 60 plus wineries to choose from, you won't be stuck for choice. Some of Australia's best chefs can be found in Margaret River WA, producing a feast of top tucker to be had - think exquisite cheeses, jam, condiments, olives, marron (freshwater crayfish).And you can't beat this - there are even chocolate, fudge and ice-cream factories with free tastings.
Teamed with a thriving arts scene - there's just about an art or craft gallery on every corner - it's the perfect place to soak up some West Australian culture and pick up a souvenir or two .Accommodation-wise, there's something for all budgets. Getting there is also easy. Drive, fly or hop on a bus. Margaret River is just three-and-a-half hour drive form Perth. The delightful Blackwood River which flows through the south west of the State offers some excellent scenic walk trails along its banks. The Blackwood is the largest river in the south west and begins its journey near the wheat belt town of Wagin, before flowing through Boyup Brook, Bridgetown and Nannup to its final meeting place at the coastal waters of Augusta. The towns of Bridgetown and Nannup offer the easiest access. There are many walk trails along the river from these towns, and you can also go canoeing and kayaking along some stretches. Go bird watching and see native water birds and forest species from special bird hides in Nannup. Enjoy the tranquility of a forest walk in Bridgetown which takes you deep into the picturesque Blackwood Valley. Bridgetown and Nannup are about a three hour drive south of Perth Denmark WA is where towering tall trees meet the ocean, a place that you’ll fall in love with. It has a relaxed village atmosphere, romantic timber milling history and incredible coastal scenery.
Just 45 minutes drive west of Albany on the southern coast, Denmark stands on spectacular Wilson Inlet and boasts glorious swimming, surfing and fishing beaches. Named after naval surgeon Dr Alexander Denmark, it became a colonial settlement in 1826 and thrived as a logging town. Your first stop should be one of the most beautiful places in Denmark - William Bay.In the midst of this white sandy beach stands Greens Pool, a sheltered natural lagoon with glittering emerald water ideal for snorkelling. Stroll east to Elephant Rocks, huge elephant-like granite boulders standing in picture-perfect contrast to the vibrant blue sky and sea-green water.

The city was founded in 1835 by John Batman, and its name is in honor of Viscount Melbourne, William Lamb, during the British occupation of Victoria. Since then Melbourne began to grow as a city and commercial centre on the north end of Port Phillip. The first magistrate in this city was Captain William Lonsdale, who came from Sydney to stablish the order and law. In 1847 Melbourne was declared as a city by Queen Victoria, and in 1850 with the gold discovery the city turned into the major port of Victoria region, the Melbourne's hustle and bustle was incredible then, with ships from all over the world arriving here, in 1854 the population increased in almost four times its number and the city development was obvious and more industries services were implanted, with all of this Melbourne became the main financial centre in all Australia. Because of the gold rushes Melbourne received many migrants from many parts of the world, specially from Italy, Greece, Poland, Turkey, Yugoslavia and Vietnam, all of this contributed to make of Melbourne a very special and varied city, with traditions of many different ways, and this mixture can also be seen in the restaurants, architecture and festivals. Melbourne is the second largest city in Australia, and is the capital city of Victoria region, always in competition with Sydney in different areas such as sport and economy. Melbourne is located near the Yarra River and sometime was the main city in Australia. Is called the Marvelous Melbourne for its unique environment, it has it all, modern buildings, beautiful beaches and can be said is the most cultural city in the country, gives a lot of importance to the sports and here is realized the famous Australian Tennis Open, the Melbourne Cup and the Australian Grand Prix.

Mildura is located in the far north-western corner of Victoria, on the banks of the Murray River, around 400 kilometres from Adelaide and under 550 kilometres from Melbourne. Originally a rather lifeless area, the region around Mildura was transformed into a rich agricultural oasis thanks to the work of the Chaffey brothers from Canada in the late 1800s due to their experience with creating irrigation settlements. Mildura is a popular tourist destination and a bustling regional city in an area well noted for its warm and stable weather. It features wide, tree-lined streets and is surrounded by vast numbers of wineries and fruit growing farms. The commercial centre of Mildura extends along the grand boulevard of Deakin Avenue with gardens and monuments located along its wide central strip. Running parallel to Deakin Avenue is Langtree Avenue which features an attractive pedestrian-only mall between 8th Street and 9th Street. The section of Langtree Avenue between 7th Street and 8th Street is nicknamed "Feast Street" due to its concentration of restaurants, cafes and bars. Mildura's famous natural attraction is the Murray River which offers many activities, such as paddle steamer cruises which depart from the Wharf, swimming, fishing and the popular activity of living on a hired house boat and cruising along the river for a number of days. Mildura's long history has left behind a legacy of historical buildings including the Rio Vista Mansion (home of the Chaffeys, built in 1889), the Old Mildura Homestead, and the Grand Hotel (1918). Mildura is the perfect base for exploring other locations in this area. A 90 minute drive west will take you into South Australia's rich Murray Riverland region surrounding Renmark and Berri. 30 kilometres north-west of Mildura is the historic port town of Wentworth in New South Wales, where the Murray River meets the Darling River, at the gateway to the vast New South Wales outback region. Robinvale The town of Robinvale is located between the Murray River towns of Mildura and Swan Hill in the north-west of Victoria. Robinvale is situated on a peninsula of land surrounded on three sides by the Murray River, making it a picturesque holiday spot. Around Robinvale are irrigated fruit and vegetable farms as well as a number of wineries, including McWilliams Wines which has a large vineyard right in the town. Robinvale is attractive and well-laid out, featuring wide streets and well-maintained gardens. Its commercial centre is primarily situated in tree-lined Perrin Street which leads to Caix Square - a central park with memorials related to the region's history. At the corner of the Murray Valley Highway and McLennan Drive is a huge windmill which was erected in 1948 and is claimed to be the largest in the Southern Hemisphere. Following McLennan Drive along the river foreshore passes beside attractive parkland and the historic Robinswood Homestead which is located in Riverside Park and was built in 1926 as the home of the town's founder. Further along the road are various picnic spots, walking tracks and scenic viewing spots. To the south of town, off Pethard Road, is the Euston Weir and Lock 15, built to store water for irrigation. There are pleasant lawns, shelters and picnic facilities

Morwell is located within the Latrobe Valley which is home to most of Victoria's power generation facilities, situated between Moe and Traralgon. Morwell has an attractive commercial centre, divided in two by the Gippsland rail line. The larger of these centres is located south of the railway along tree-lined Commercial Road and Tarwin Street. A pedestrian underpass provides a link to the other centre north of the railway along Princes Drive where there are more shops, the post office, a couple of hotels and churches. The large Mid Valley Shopping Centre is located towards the eastern edge of town. Towards the eastern edge of Morwell on Princes Drive is Kernot Lake which is surrounded by lawns and gardens. Kernot Hall and the Morwell campus of GippsTafe is located on the southern side of the lake, while the Gippsland Immigration Park is located nearby. South of Morwell is the Hazelwood Power Station, whose towering smoke stacks can be seen by looking south along Tarwin Street in Morwell's main commercial centre. Artificial lake known as the Hazelwood Pondage which is available for the public to use for boating and water sports. Neerim South is located in the southern foothills of the Great Dividing Range, north of the larger towns of Drouin and Warragul. This picturesque rural town is surrounded by rolling hills and lush green grazing land, and it has developed into a popular stop over for those venturing further afield to Mount Baw Baw. It also has grown into an appealing place to visit for travelers in the area and is well served by its collection of galleries, cafes and gourmet food outlets. Neerim South's town centre is situated along Main Neerim Road which opens up into a wide boulevard with tall deciduous trees along its central strip between Wagner Road and Neerim East Road. In addition to the eateries, there is a supermarket, hotel and other services. Recreational facilities are located in adjoining Neerim East Road and include a sports oval, netball courts, a skate park and playground. The main access point to the Tarago Reservoir is via the Jindivick road, a few minutes drive west of town. A turn off leads to a car park near the dam wall where is there is attractive park land with BBQ shelters and picnic areas. While the dam wall is closed for walking across, there is a track which descends down to bushland at the base of the dam wall from where the Tarago River flows. A little further west is the small community of Jindivick which is well-known for its farms that produce gourmet foods such as olives, berries, cheeses and small goods. The journey north along the Main Neerim Road passes through scenic countryside and lush rolling hills surrounding the small communities of Neerim and Neerim Junction. Just south of the road junction at Piedmont is the Lions Club Lookout which offers scenic easterly views towards Noojee.

The thriving City of Mount Gambier is located mid way between Adelaide and Melbourne, just within the border of South Australia. The streets and houses are built around the slopes of an extinct volcano 27.37 kilometres from the sea, with the City climbing almost to the lip of the famous Blue Lake, and the outskirts extending on to the rich volcanic soil of the surrounding plain DISTANCE FROM MOUNT GAMBIER TO SURROUNDING TOWNSHIPS Distance is estimated kilometres from Mount Gambier taking the shortest route Allendale East - 22 km A small rural settlement renowned for the sinkhole in the middle of the road Beachport - 85 km  Beautiful sandy beaches on one side, rugged coastal scenery on the other making it a popular holiday resort Black Fellows Caves - 40 kmCaves sculptured into the cliff face by the elements which can only be seen from the sea. Known by early settlers as a hiding place for Aboriginals. Today, it is a quiet fishing town Cape Douglas - 30 km Carpenter Rocks - 40 km Safe coastal inlet providing shelter for a small fishing fleet, popular swimming beach, rock and surf fishing Compton - 6 km Rural settlement close to the city Coonawarra - 56 km Heart of the Coonawarra wine area Dartmoor - 47 km Survey by Major Mitchell, a guiet town on the Glenelg River  Dergholm - 83 km Unique Country AtmosphereDonovans - 30 kmA quiet town situated on the only section of the Glenelg River which flows in South Australia. Fishing permits are not required on this section of the riverEdenhope - 131 kmSet on the shores of Lake Wallace and surround by sheep and cattle grazing Glenburnie - 6 km Rural settlement on the outskirts of the city Glencoe - 25 km Small township situated just off the main highway between Millicent and Mount Gambier. Houses the National Trust famous Woolshed Kingston - 157 km Set on Lacepede Bay at the southern end of the Coorong. Great for fishing and wide range of water sports Millicent - 50 km Situated between the majestic coastline of Canunda National Park and the volcanics of Mount Muirhead and Mount Burr, the township which was founded in 1879 supports a large rural and timber industry Naracoorte - 102 km One of the region’s larger commercial centres with 7 day shopping Nelson - 37 kmSituated on the mouth of the Glenelg River near Lower Glenelg National Park, the town is a popular holiday resort and provides excellent facilities for a range of river activities Padthaway - 168 km Quickly establishing itself as one of the great wine producing area Penola - 50 kmFounded in the 1850, this historical town is well known for its association with Mary MacKillopPortland - 105 kmVictoria’s birthplace, first settled by Edward Henty in 1834, it is the main port for the Green TrianglePort MacDonnell - 27 km South Australia's largest lobster port and proclaimed as the Southern Rock Lobster Capital of Australia. Provides for a range of coastal and holiday activities Robe - 131 km A popular destination for visitors who enjoy a relaxed coastal retreat, in an historic setting, that offers fresh gourmet produce, lobster and wine Southend - 76 kmThis pleasant holiday town popular for fishing and water sport activities. is the northern gateway to Canunda National Park

Mudgee The town of Mudgee is famous as a wine-producing region that offers so much more. It sits within a region that's born of goldrush and rural booms, where colonial history still shapes the little towns we see today in the form of heritage buildings, museums, galleries, memorial tributes to brilliant poet and writer Henry Lawson, gold fossicking, and viewing sheep shearing. As a wine producing region for over 100 years, an opportune time to visit Mudgee is in June when for the Wine and Food Fair or in September for the Huntington Festival which fuses local food and wine with classical music.

About two hours drive north of Sydney, perched between a working harbour and beautiful beaches, Newcastle is a vibrant cosmopolitan city, bursting with energy and creative activity. Discover Newcastle’s renowned surfing beaches on foot by taking the Bathers way, a scenic 5km coastal walk stretching from Nobby’s Light House to Merewether Beach, Five of the city’s pristine beaches are on the eastern side of the promontory. Further north is Nobby’s Beach; Newcastle’s best know beach and a favoured spot for kite surfers and those learning to surf. Opened in 1922, the art Deco pavilion of Newcastle Ocean Baths, south of Nobbys, is one of the city’s outstanding historic landmarks and also a popular open-air studio for amateur photographers. In late March each year, Newcastle Beach is the location of Vodafone Surfest, Australia’s largest annual surfing event. South of Newcastle Beach is the Bogey Hole, a unique hand-hewn ocean rock pool carved of a cliff face by convicts during the early 9th century. It’s popular with swimmers seeking a tranquil bathing spot only minutes from the city centre. Bar Beach is the ideal family beach, featuring a sheltered rock pool for children. It’s also a great place to watch hang – gliders take off from nearby Strezelecki Lookout. Dixon Park Beach is a popular surfing spot for locals, many of whom head out for early morning surf. Merewether is the beach where four times world champion surfer Mark Richards learnt to surf. Just north of the city is Stockton Beach, only a ferry ride away from Newcastle Harbour. Offering sweeping views across the Stockton Bight to Port Stephens, it’s excellent beach for novice surfers. Newcastle has become a vibrant cosmopolitan city with an emerging food scene and a strong arts focus. On Newcastle Harbour you will find Honeysuckle, where the former industrial whares have been transformed into The Boardwalk with open plaza surrounded by restaurants, cafes and bars, Diners can sample fresh local produce prepared in a variety of styles as they watch the activity on the harbour. Beaumont Street in Hamilton is a Newcastle institution, long established as a popular dining precinct. Here you will discover a variety of delicatessens; restaurants and cafes with a distinct Mediterranean feel; overlooking the busy port of Newcastle Harbour. Newcastle has several natural habitats that are easily reached from the city centre. The Hunter wetlands Centre at Shortland,12km north-west of Newcastle,is where you can hire a canoe and explore a network of ponds that is home to a diverse range of waterbirds-pick up a bird guide before you start. The centre also has a pleasant café with panoramic views. Stockton Sand Dunes,20 minutes drive or a short ferry ride north of the Newcastle CBD, is the largest moving sand dune system in the southern hemisphere. Take a tour by quad bike or 4WD and explore the 33km of dunes, where you will also see the Sydney, the largest shipwreck on the Australian Coastline.

Orange, a town of leafy parks and trees is the centre of a huge apple and pear growing industry. The soils in the area are very fertile as result of lava flows, from the extinct volcano of Mount Canobolas, which have broken down over the millenniums. Nearby at Ophir was the first goldfield to be exploited with a sizable strike in 1851 , now a flora and fauna reserve whilst on the outskirts of town is one of the finest private mineral collections in the country at the Gallery of Minerals.  Parkes was named following the visit of Sir Henry Parkes in 1815-96 who was one of the major contributor's in the heading-up of the Australian Federation. The original settlement went by the name of Brushmans. Memorial Hill, Nth Parkes is a great place to view the township from. There are tourist drives that give easy self guided tours, taking around 90 mins. Walking around Parkes will include the oldest house in Parkes, Historical Museum, Gold mine site, Motor Museum,and much more. 23 Km north, the giant saucer Telescope Information Centre. An excellent educational aid that will explain all there is to know.

Sofala Nestling in the lovely hills of the Turon River valley is Sofala, the oldest gold town in Australia. Settled only 3 weeks after the first official gold strike at Ophir, Sofala swelled to a peak population 40 000. Today it has contracted to a rustic village of around 100 people. The surrounding district is primarily superfine wool farms. Each farm has many relics and remnants of the goldrush. Boasting 7km of the original Cobb & Co coach road to Hill End, O'Reilly's extensive underground mines, Chinamans creek alluvial diggings, water races, old shanty huts & a wealth of unspoiled history to explore.

Wellington lying on the edge of Bell River, Wellington is renowned for its tourist attractions, setting and lifestyle. The Wellington Caves attract over 40 000 visitors a year. The Cathedral cave contains a 15m stalagmite which is thought to be the largest in the word, and in Bone Cave (only open to scientists) fossils millions of years old have been found. 27km to the south-east of town is Lake Burrendong which has a volume of water 3.5times that of Sydney Harbour.

Orbost is situated in the far east of Victoria between the tiny communities of Nowa Nowa and Cabbage Tree Creek. The area around Orbost was first settled in 1842 and originally used for cattle grazing. A township began to develop in the 1870s and it eventually became an important service centre for what has developed into a major cattle and agricultural district. The surrounding mountain forests produce hardwood timber, most of which is milled locally. Orbost is situated on the Snowy River, surrounded by its rich river flats. Its commercial centre is along Nicholson Street and includes two supermarkets, a selection of shops and a few hotels. At the northern end of the commercial centre, at the Salisbury Street roundabout, is a memorial clocktower. As Nicholson Street heads northwards, it breaks out into a wide boulevard with lawns and trees along its central strip. Forest Park is an attractive reserve in Orbost, wedged between Nicholson Street and the Snowy River. It features a slab hut which was built in 1872 and relocated to its present site. The hut is open to the public and furnished as a period settler's home. Other attractions in Forest Park include the Orbost Exhibition Centre and gallery, as well as a number of rainforest walks which begin in the park. Good views of Orbost, the Snowy River and the bridges across its flood plain can be enjoyed from Grandview Lookout, located south-west of Orbost in the small community of Newmerella. 14 kilometres downstream along the Snowy River near its mouth is the small coastal community of Marlo. Paynesville is located 17 kilometres south of Bairnsdale within the Gippsland Lakes system and with direct access to both Lake King and Lake Victoria. Paynesville is a popular boating location, effectively surrounded on three sides by water. There are extensive lawns, stretches of sand, boat ramps and a pier along the southern shoreline. The eastern shoreline along McMillans Strait also includes lawn areas but is more geared towards boating with several marinas, jetties and Fishermans Wharf with its waterfront cafe and restaurant. Paynesville's commercial center is located on the inland side of The Esplanade, thus it overlooks the beautiful waterways and foreshore just across the road. St Peters Anglican Church is located in an elevated position on Sunset Drive, overlooks the surrounding lake. It has been architecturally designed to resemble a ship and was built from Gippsland limestone bricks in 1961. 200 metres off the coast of Paynesville and linked to the town by a vehicular ferry is Raymond Island. The island has a small residential population which co-exists with many native birds and animals, offering ideal bushwalking opportunities. Just north of Paynesville, at Eagle Point, the Mitchell River enters Lake King. Bluff Lookout provides good views over the lake, river and surrounding countryside. At the mouth of the Mitchell River there are two 8 kilometre long and narrow peninsulas of land known as the Silt Jetties which stretch out into the lake.

Parramatta is a city rich in history, a place of elegant parks, a vibrant multicultural community, and a shopper’s paradise, and a centre for sport, dining and entertainment. Australia’s second European settlement. Parramatta was founded in November 1788 – just nine months after the First Fleet landed in Sydney Cove. The discovery of this region had a significant impact on the fledgling colony, providing fertile soil to grow crops vital to the colony’s survival-a feat not managed at Sydney Cove; Governor Philip originally named the area Rose Hill and established several building and a small fort. The indigenous people of the region, knows as the Burramattahal, are a clan of the Darug people of the Sydney Basin. Derived from the name of the clan, the name Parramatta means’ “place where eel lie down” and was officially adopted in 1791.The city center of Parramatta leads down to the Parramatta River, which is crossed by seven bridges. The River features one of the cultural highlights of the city-The River Walk. This evocative Indigenous artwork incorporates a painted pathway, interpretive plaques and native plantings. The walk meanders along the foreshore from Charles Street Ferry Wharf to the historic Lennox Bridge. Its shape reflecting the winding river, the path tells the history of the river and its people from an Aboriginal perspective. The walk ends in a reconciliation sounds cape outside Parramatta Heritage and Visitor information Centre. Parramatta’s appearance as a thriving modern, city often masks the rich history lying beneath its foundation. Visitors can follow the footsteps of the early colonists on one of the many heritage walks that take in some of Parramatta’s nationally significant sites. Delve into Parramatta’s past with a stroll along the Harris Park Heritage Walk, which is accessible from the ferry wharf or the Railway station. One of the highlights of the walk is Elizabeth Farm. John Macarthur, a military man and a shrewd operator who wielded significant influence in the fledgling colony, built the house in 1793. The farm was named for his wife, a great woman of great influence herself. The current site still contains part of Australia’s oldest private building, and the garden features exotic plants spanning two centuries, including on olive tree that has been bearing fruit since 1805. A short stroll down the Heritage Walk brings you to Experiment Farm Cottage, Former convict James Ruse became the first to meet Governor Phillip’s challenge of developing a self –sustaining farm. Ruse was given six and half acres to cultivate crops, with the promise of an additional 24 acres if his farm was successful. With the success of “Experiment Farm” Ruse became the recipient of the first land grant in the colony. Colonial Surgeon John Harris bought the property from Ruse in 1793 and builds the brick cottage that exists on the site today.

Perth is the capital city of Western Australia, and the fourth largest city in Australia. Captain James Stirling founded Perth in 1829 and since then it served as the seat of Goverment of Western Australia. Perth area was once inhabited by Whadjuk Noongar, aboriginal people, in 1826 Perth was occupied by Europeans settlement and was known as Swan River Colony for many years, then the town was named Perth, because of Perth, Scotland. In goldrush days, 1890s, Noongar people were joined by miners to go to the goldfields. In 1901, Western Australia region joined the Federation of Australia. Perth developed into a centre for natural resource industry, the enormous reserves of gold, diamonds, natural gas and oil. For this and other reasons Perth has inhabitants of many different ethnic groups. Christian, Buddhism and Islam are the main religions in the city.
Perth's metropolitan area is situated on the Swan River, the centre business district is the main business and shopping centre, in the CBD are many important buildings such as the General Post Office, Perth Train Station and the Forrest Chase shopping centre.Perth has a typical mediterranean climate, with mild winters specially from june to August, and hot summers from December to January, but for visiting Perth you better go in spring time, from September to November and from March to May in the autumn season.Perth, the capital of Western Australia, is another of Australia's modern cities and is supposedly Australia's sunniest capital. Perth is also the most isolated capital city in the world with 80% of the 1.8 million people in Western Australia living in and around the city.
Perth is situated on the west bank of the Swan River and was founded in 1829. It grew due to the convicts arrival around the labour shortage, with many of the major buildings built by the convicts. The city boomed during the 1890's gold discovery. Perth is home to many great architectural landmarks of interest to both locals and visitors alike. One such landmark is The Perth Mint, housed in an elegant, late 19th century, heritage building. This is a popular tourist attraction being Australia's oldest operating mint with a number of attractions such as the Gold Pour held in the original Melthouse.
The main business area is on St. Georges Terrace with the main shopping area being at Hay Street and Murray Street Malls. The north of the city is marked by the railway track dividing it from the popular accommodation and eating region of Northbridge. West is Kings Park which is approximately 1,000 acres in size (406 Hectares) and makes an ideal place to relax, enjoy a picnic or take a leisurely walk. Here you can enjoy wonderfully cultivated gardens, natural bushland, recreational areas and over 300 species of native plants together with roughly 80 bird species. Kings Park also offers great views of Perth and Swan River and is simply a must do when visiting Perth. There are so many beaches within a short distance of Perth CBD. Many of these beaches being great for surfing. These include City, Cottesloe, Floreat, Leighton, Port, Scarborough, Swanbourne and Trigg Island, although several can get quite rough at times. For calmer beaches head to Como, Crawley or Peppermint Grove. Perth offers a range of tourist accommodation. There are plenty of hostels around the city, all of which offer good facilities. A number of bed and breakfasts. The campsites are situated in the suburbs of Perth, with apartments, hotels and motels situated in and around the city.  www.lastbeds.com.au There is a wide range of tours and attractions for the visitor to Perth. Popular day Tours include visiting the local natural wonders; The Pinnacles and Wave Rock. Other popular tours include a relaxing Wine and Chocolate Tour, Rottnest Island Day Trip and Swan Valley Lunch cruise. For those with more time there is a wide range of multi day tours which allow you to absorb more of what Western Australia has to offer.

Port Macquarie The town had been established as a penal colony, but is now very much a “Fun in the Sun” place set
on the NSW Coast, with beautiful beaches backed by scenic lush green forests atop mountain ranges. The area is a
favorite retreat for Sydney-siders. Craft shops, tea rooms and wineries are located in the area, and try to take
some time to explore the many antique shops, Speciality shops and art galleries. There is a deep harbour at the
Port, where you will find fishing boats, cruisers and luxury yachts. For the fisherman, there is great beach and
estuary fishing and there are deep sea fishing cruises available. There are plenty of opportunities for bushwalks,
swimming, surfing, cruising, fishing, sailing and wineries. During the day the national parks and country side are
well worth a drive. The town itself has a resident koala population Beaches There are 14 great beaches right on the
city edge for surfing and swimming, as well as Diamond Head Beach to the south. At Shelly beach, the Sea Acres
Nature Reserve and Rain forest Center is an information center protecting the rare coastal rainforest. The largest
and most diverse rain forest in the region, Sea Acres has an elevated boardwalk for a spectacular perspective.
Diamond Beach - Hallidays Point The walking trails around Black Head and Red Head areas are great! They meander
around the remnants of Littoral Rain forest and take in the coastal formations.Museums and Attractions Visit the
historical Museum and the Maritime Museum. At the Macquarie Nature Reserve, there is Roto House, a now fully
restored timber home and serves today as an excellent example of Victorian architecture. Restaurants and Dining
There are plenty of good restaurants and eateries, especially for seafood served with other fresh local
produce.Kempsey Cruise the Macleay River, sample quality locally grown wines or cruise the country-side through
banana plantations, lush forests and farmlands.Taree The Taree district includes the small towns of Harrington,
Manning Point, Saltwater, Old Bar, Cundletown, Hallidays Point, Tinonee and Wingham. There are a number of national
parks and beautiful subtropical rain forests and some 40km coastline beaches for surf, swimming, snorkeling and
diving. Take a cruise on the Manning River for the wonderful lush pastoral landscapes. At Wingham Brush, there are
thousand year old giant Moreton Bay fig trees. Activities Water sport activities including surfing, skiing and
wake boarding, and there are fishing charters, seaplane flights, skydiving and more. In short, there is a whole lot
to do. Hotels and Accommodation There is a large variety of stays available on the North Coast in the form of
everything from hostels and backpackers to farmstays, Bed and Breakfasts, caravan parks, self contained units,
hotels, motels and some very nice resorts.

Portland is located in the far south-west of Victoria on the coast, mid-way between Warrnambool and the city of Mount Gambier in the neighboring state of South Australia. Portland was the site of Victoria's first permanent settlement back in 1834, with the town quickly prospering due to fishing, pastoral and agricultural industries. Portland is the only deep-water sea port between Adelaide and Melbourne, making it a major center for sea transport of goods and produce from the surrounding areas. A large sheltered harbor provides calm waters for a marina, wharves and shipping berths.The Portland Cable Tram offers visitors a scenic and informative journey through the foreshore, providing views along the coast and passing attractions such as Botanic Gardens, Portland Powerhouse Car Museum, Maritime Discovery Center, Whalers Bluff Lighthouse, and the World War 2 Memorial Lookout Tower at Anderson Point. South of Portland is Cape Nelson which includes a 210 hectare state park bordering rugged cliffs with the Cape Nelson Lighthouse located on the coast's southern tip. To the west is Cape Bridgewater, which marks the start of the Discovery Bay Coastal Park that stretches 50 kilometres north-west along the coast to the small town of Nelson, close to the state border with South Australia. The seaside resort of Queenscliff is located just inside the entrance to Port Phillip Bay on the Bellarine Peninsula near Point Lonsdale. Queenscliff was settled in the 1850s and soon became a strategic defence post given its proximity to the entrance of Port Phillip Bay which provides shipping access to the cities of Geelong and Melbourne. Legacies to Queenscliff's defence and maritime history can be found at Fort Queenscliff where tours are available, and further insights into Queenscliff's past can be discovered at the Queenscliffe Historical Museum in Hesse Street and the Maritime Museum on Weeroona Parade. The commercial centre of Queenscliff, characterised by historic shop fronts and buildings, is situated on Hesse Street, dominated by the ornate Vue Grand Hotel which was constructed in 1881. Grand hotels and guest houses can also be found along Gellibrand Street which is separated from the cliffs along the coast in this area by extensive parkland. Queenscliff is surrounded on three sides by water, giving the town large stretches of coastline, consisting of a combination of sandy beaches, rocky outcrops, cliffs and historic piers. At Shortlands Bluff is the Queenscliff Lighthouse which was built in 1862 and includes a lookout near the base. Further north along the coast is the Black Lighthouse, unique in Australia, having been constructed from bluestone. The Queenscliff Harbour, situated along Larkin Parade, consists of several wharves and is home to several fishing fleets, some of which offer direct sales to the public from their boats. At the eastern end of the harbour is a car and passenger ferry service which operates between Queenscliff and Sorrento on the Mornington Peninsula, providing an alternative to the road route via Melbourne. The Bellarine Peninsula Railway operates a collection of heritage trains from around Australia on 16 kilometres of restored track between Queenscliff and Drysdale.

Seymour is situated on the Goulburn River at the base of the Tallarook Ranges, between Nagambie, Broadford, Euroa and Yea Seymour's town center was originally located on Emily Street which was the main road between Melbourne and Sydney and became particularly busy during the the gold rush days. On that road is the historic Royal Hotel (built in 1848), the old court house (built in 1864 and now the visitor information center) and the old post office (built in 1873 and now an art gallery and restaurant). The arrival of the railway in 1872 saw the construction of the Seymour station in Station Street and the town started to develop in this geographic area which is today the heart of Seymour's commercial centre. There are shops along one side of Station Street, with one of the oldest buildings in that street being the Terminus Hotel which was built in 1897. The other side of Station Street consists of attractive landscaped gardens along the main railway line between Melbourne and Sydney. There is also the Seymour Central Shopping Center in Tallarook Street and a smaller local center can be found eastwards along Anzac Avenue. At New Crossing Place, the original site of the town on the banks of the Goulburn River is attractive parkland, picnic grounds, a fishing platform, boat ramp and walking trails along the river. Goulburn Park which fronts a wide bend in the river at Guild Street, offers picnic facilities, BBQs, a playground and is suitable for swimming. Kings Park in Tallarook Street and Chittick Park in Pollard Street are home to many of Seymour's recreational and sporting facilities. Seymour is located within scenic countryside, surrounded by fertile agricultural, pastoral and wine growing areas. Woodend is located between Macedon and Kyneton and at the northern end of Macedon's Black Forest. The town has a long history, dating back to the days of the Gold Rush of the 1850s, when Woodend was a service centre for people on their way to the goldfields of Bendigo and Castlemaine. The commercial center of Woodend is located along the tree-lined boulevard of High Street and retains a collection of historic buildings including the soaring clock tower in front of the post office and the Art Gallery building. Woodend's Bi-Lo supermarket, at the 19th Hole Shopping Center, features a collection of large murals depicting the Woodend's history on its outside walls. Other historical buildings include the bluestone St Mary's Anglican Church built in Buckland Street in 1864, and the old court house, dating back to 1870 in Forest Street. The Woodend Bridge, located near the visitor information centre, is a bluestone structure built in 1862 that allows High Street to span Five Mile Creek. The Woodend Golf Course, with its entrance on Davy Street, is built on the slopes of an extinct volcano. Fine views over the town, surrounding countryside and towards Mount Macedon can be enjoyed from many of the fairways. One of Woodend's major attractions is the Hanging Rock Reserve, located around 8 kilometres to the east of town.

Shepparton is a major commercial center, located between Nagambie and Numurkah on the Goulburn Valley Highway which is the main inland road route between Melbourne and Brisbane. Shepparton is situated within the rich dairying, fruit growing and agricultural region of the Goulburn Valley, with the area responsible for producing around 25 percent of Victoria's rural output. Major food companies in the area include SPC Ardmona and Campbells Soups. SPC Ardmona have a factory sales supermarket open to the public, located 5 kilometres west of Shepparton and across the Goulburn River in Mooroopna. The large commercial center of Shepparton is based around the main thoroughfare of Wyndham Street and the mall along part of Maude Street. A communications tower, located off the Maude Street Mall, is open weekdays from 9am to 3pm and offers visitors spectacular views over the city and surrounding countryside from a public viewing platform. Shepparton's cultural precinct is located in Wellsford Street and consists of an art gallery featuring Australian ceramics and paintings, and a major war memorial located next to the council offices. On the corner of Wellsford Street and High Street is the Paul Gribben Historical Precinct, consisting of the Shepparton Heritage Centre which contains thousands of items tracing Shepparton's history housed in the old Forester's Hall (built in 1873) and farming equipment displays in the surrounding parkland. A network of parks, reserves and forests follow the paths of the Goulburn and Broken Rivers through Shepparton, offering good bushwalking tracks and picnic spots. There is a dense state forest between Shepparton and neighboring Mooroopna along the river, with the Peter Ross Edwards Causeway (Midland Highway) cutting through it to link the two communities together. Victoria Park Lake, constructed in 1920 from a swamp, is located just south of the heart of Shepparton, frontin the main highway and featuring walking tracks, bike paths, a skate park and boating facilities. Adjacent to the lake is the Aquamoves health and fitness centre which has both indoor and outdoor pools. The town of Ouyen is located just over 100 kilometres south of Mildura in the far north-west of Victoria. Ouyen is situated within a vast area of wheat fields and sheep grazing land. Wheat loading facilities and massive grain silos are a feature of the town, located along the railway line. The Big Mallee Root, located on the Calder Highway, is the largest Mallee stump in Australia and serves as a tribute to early settlers who cleared the land of drought-resistant eucalypt trees to make way for agricultural activities. The commercial center of Ouyen is located in Oke Street and includes the council offices and the Local History Research Center which houses a collection of books and historical records in the old court house. Ouyen is located in the heart of the vast national parks of the Mallee region. To the south-west is the Wyperfeld National Park with its network of lake beds. In the north-west is the Murray-Sunset National Park, characterized by its wide open landscapes and isolation. And to the north is the Hattah-Kulkyne National Park which borders the Murray River and features native woodlands and lakes.

Southern Queensland takes in the four main centres of Brisbane, the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast, and the Fraser Coast; offering a fascinating mix of cities, coast and hinterland as well as the gateway to some of Australia’s most diverse and awe-inspiring holiday experiences. And one of the best ways to link all of these amazing experiences together is on the Great Sunshine Way, a new touring route which allows you to self-drive (car or campervan), join a day touring group or train your way around these diverse regions. Nothing quite compares with the rush of catching your first salty surf wave, the peaceful tranquillity of wandering through a silent rainforest or the awe-inspiring night time skies of the country where a million stars light up the dark. But then you’ll encounter lots of amazing things in Southern Queensland. In fact, some of the worlds most treasured natural wonders like World Heritage listed Fraser Island and the ancient rainforests of the Gold Coast Hinterland are found here. But the regions diversity extends beyond its varied landscape of golden beaches, sub-tropical rainforests and buzzing cities, Southern Queensland is also home to an amazing array of nature-based experiences, offering close and personal encounters with a whole host of uniquely Australian wildlife. With Brisbane at the heart of this amazingly diverse region and the largest international gateway into Queensland, you’ll soon discover a range of experiences radiating in all directions from the state’s cruisy capital. And with perfect year-round weather and a relaxed vibe, you are sure to make the most of this diverse touring destination. Spend a morning shopping for international and Australian designer labels, then play a round of golf at a world-class course, and be the only person on a stunning beach as the sun sinks into the horizon. Rediscover yourself at a mountain top health spa, then master a challenging rainforest trek around waterfalls and dramatic cliff lines, and sample fresh regional produce, seafood and succulent tropical fruits. Enjoy the tranquillity of casually paddling along a river or lake, or take in all the thrills of a Gold Coast theme park. Island hop around Moreton Bay, visit the regions vineyards and taste local artisan wines, experience native wildlife in their natural habitats and enjoy city life with a seriously relaxed Queensland lifestyle - it’s all possible within a few hours or a few days. The Fraser Coast is home to an amazing diversity of marine life experiences and natural adventures. Discover the world’s largest sand island, Australia’s whale watching capital, a stunning coastal landscape of golden beaches, rainforest and vast freshwater lakes, all along a spectacular protected coastline. The Great Sandy Strait The Great Sandy Strait is a haven for fishing and boating with its calm protected waters and abundant marine life. The area is a naturalists wonderland - dugongs, turtles and dolphins inhabit the tranquil waterways, while mangroves, seagrass pastures and wildflowers are among the region's unique flora.

The Sunshine Coast area encompasses a wide variety of townships. If you're after a friendly and laid back atmosphere with secluded beaches, fewer high rise buildings than the cities and an amazing assortment of features then the Sunshine Coast is it. Unique, varied and simply unspoilt! With a scenic and varied hinterland and high rocky headlands there are plenty of bushland areas that break up the monotony of urban establishment. These act as a divider for resorts and enable the visitor to walk along bush paths and savour the peace and quiet that this area has to offer. Geographically, the Sunshine Coast is abundant in a vibrancy of diverse surroundings. There are places to meander along paths in sand dunes, river mouths for fishing and rowing, beautiful bays for sailing. If you’re after flora and fauna then there are plenty of endemic species scattered throughout the dense foliage. The Restaurants and Cafes on the Sunshine Coast capitalise on the climate and views that the area has available, which beautifully compliment the atmosphere. The places to eat vary from town to town. You can encounter old pubs that serve excellent counter meals in the tranquility of the hinterlands or for the more discerning diners there is always a touch of class to be found in the many townships in relation to fine dining. The Sunshine Coast is one of Australia's favourite tourist destinations, with people travelling from all over Australia and the world to enjoy the Sunshine Coast's beautiful beaches and wonderful weather.
If you're looking for a holiday where you can feel the warm sun on your back and sand between your toes, hear the whisper of the cool waters of a rainforest stream, smell the clean mountain air and taste crisp fish and chips at a cafe by the water - it's time for a Sunshine Coast holiday experience!
Stay in magical Sunshine Coast towns such as Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Noosa and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, pristine beaches, al fresco restaurants and colourful boutiques.
It's no secret that the Sunshine Coast thrills surfers with the swell off Alexandra Headland and Point Cartwright, while families will benefit from a wide array of famous attractions including Australia Zoo, Underwater World and Aussie World. Spot wildlife along the tracks of the stunning Noosa National Park, and discover the picturesque township of Montville in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
Coolum boasts beautiful world class golf courses, while the Sunshine Coast Plaza in Maroochydore offers an exciting shopping experience. You will also find many activities and adventures to enjoy such as jetski tours, skydiving, and camel rides on the beach.
The Sunshine Coast has something special and memorable for everyone. Here the sun and smiles always shine! The Sunshine Coast has a vast array of accommodation options, from family resorts to boutique hotels.

The Sunshine Coast area encompasses a wide variety of townships. If you're after a friendly and laid back atmosphere with secluded beaches, fewer high rise buildings than the cities and an amazing assortment of features then the Sunshine Coast is it. Unique, varied and simply unspoilt! With a scenic and varied hinterland and high rocky headlands there are plenty of bushland areas that break up the monotony of urban establishment. These act as a divider for resorts and enable the visitor to walk along bush paths and savour the peace and quiet that this area has to offer. Geographically, the Sunshine Coast is abundant in a vibrancy of diverse surroundings. There are places to meander along paths in sand dunes, river mouths for fishing and rowing, beautiful bays for sailing. If you’re after flora and fauna then there are plenty of endemic species scattered throughout the dense foliage. The Restaurants and Cafes on the Sunshine Coast capitalise on the climate and views that the area has available, which beautifully compliment the atmosphere. The places to eat vary from town to town. You can encounter old pubs that serve excellent counter meals in the tranquility of the hinterlands or for the more discerning diners there is always a touch of class to be found in the many townships in relation to fine dining. The Sunshine Coast is one of Australia's favourite tourist destinations, with people travelling from all over Australia and the world to enjoy the Sunshine Coast's beautiful beaches and wonderful weather.
If you're looking for a holiday where you can feel the warm sun on your back and sand between your toes, hear the whisper of the cool waters of a rainforest stream, smell the clean mountain air and taste crisp fish and chips at a cafe by the water - it's time for a Sunshine Coast holiday experience!
Stay in magical Sunshine Coast towns such as Caloundra, Mooloolaba and Noosa and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, pristine beaches, al fresco restaurants and colourful boutiques.
It's no secret that the Sunshine Coast thrills surfers with the swell off Alexandra Headland and Point Cartwright, while families will benefit from a wide array of famous attractions including Australia Zoo, Underwater World and Aussie World. Spot wildlife along the tracks of the stunning Noosa National Park, and discover the picturesque township of Montville in the Sunshine Coast hinterland.
Coolum boasts beautiful world class golf courses, while the Sunshine Coast Plaza in Maroochydore offers an exciting shopping experience. You will also find many activities and adventures to enjoy such as jetski tours, skydiving, and camel rides on the beach.The Sunshine Coast has something special and memorable for everyone. Here the sun and smiles always shine! The Sunshine Coast has a vast array of accommodation options, from family resorts to boutique hotels

Sydney just mentioned the word and people all over the world see the shining white sails of the Sydney opera house, and the steely grey arch of the harbour Bridge. Kangaroos and koalas aren’t far behind. But there is more to Sydney than cute marsupials and iconic arches. Sydney is the gateway to Australia for most visitors and from the first g'day, you will feel at home .On the drive from the airport you will notice golf courses, parkland, residential developments, and, looming large in the taxi or Limo windscreen, a cluster of skyscrapers, standing tall and proud.Once ensconced in your luxury hotel, go exploring the city street. Weekdays they are busy, but you will not find the harried crowds of New York or chaotic bustle of Paris or Rome. There is room to move in Sydney, and locals will only be too pleased to give you directions or advise on what to do and see. Compared to other cities, Sydney is relaxed, vibrant, and young lady content in her skin. The City has it all-beautiful beaches, glorious National Parks in the shadows of the CBD, cutting –edge fashion, fantastic shopping and all the facilities, activities and accommodation any visitor could hope for. From most city hotels around the CBD, there will be a view or glimpse of the body of water that is Sydney’s pride and joy. Sydney Harbour is the star in most visitors’ photo album.They will take photos of the glistening blue water from every possible angle-from aircraft on scenic flights, from Skywalk and the Bridge climb, from Ferries or yachts, or from foreshores. It would be a fairly safe bet that no first time visitor would leave Sydney without at least a photo of the harbour safely tucked away on a memory card or roll of film. Sydney seaplanes (visit www.seaplanes.com.au) and Sydney by seaplane (www.sydneybyseaplane.com.au) are two of the companies conducting scenic flights and from the moment you take off you will be absolutely mesmerised by the fantastic sights. The coastline’s rugged cliffs and golden beaches, the city skyline, the harbour bridge, Opera House and the distant blue of the mountains are spread out before you in a stream of beauty. These companies also offer combination fly dine tours, with the excitement of touching down on water sure to be a highlight. If sailing is your choice, why not hire your own charter yacht and explore the harbour at you own pace, or participate in a scheduled sail. The main player in this field is Sydney by Sail (www.sydneybysail.com) at Darling Harbour, with a fleet of luxury Hunter yachts and an innovative range of charter and leisure activities.

Pure Tasmania is home to the most exciting holiday destinations, travel experiences and unique accommodation in Tasmania, Australia. Pure Tasmania invites you to immerse yourself in the Tasmanian experience; savour long days exploring the beaches and mountains; rainforests and historic landmarks; indulge in our finest food and wine; and return home feeling refreshed, uplifted, educated and, above all, moved and inspired.
Strahan, the harbourside village on the edge of World Heritage wilderness is your West Coast base for exploration. Gordon River Cruises Wind your way up the majestic Gordon River and take in one of the most pristine World Heritage areas on Earth.
West Coast Wilderness Railway Take a trip back in time and learn how men slaved to forge a link between Queenstown and the port of Strahan.

Piners and Miners Explore the world of the pioneering West Coast piners and miners as you take a guided trip around Strahan and surrounding sites. Gordon River Paddle The best way to experience this wild river. Only bush birds and the splash of your paddle break the silence of the wilderness. The Bonnet Island Experience Home to a thriving colony of Little Penguins, this fascinating experience highlights the native wildlife and human heritage of the West Coast. Wine and Cheese Tasting The cellar at View 42° Restaurant & Bar features a showcase selection of Tasmanian wines from 100 vineyards around the island.Strahan Marine Charters Enjoy a personalised fishing charter, cruise the Macquarie Harbour or see bushwalking tracks only a local would know. Jet Boating Take a ride on the wild side with a high speed jet boat ride up Tasmania's spectacular King River. Gordon River Scenic Flights The history of dining at The Rocks goes back a long way. The excavation of a campfire on the site of the current Shangri – La hotel has revealed that, more than 500 years ago, a group of Aborigine s forgot some of Australia’s the Cadigal tribe prepared a tempting meal of bream, rock oysters and other shellfish there – no doubt enjoying the superb views across Sydney Harbour. Today, the views are just as spectacular while the eating options have expanded – you can still get fresh seafood, of course, but now you can choose from Japanese, Chinese, German, Thai, modern Australian and a raft of pub, bistro and café fare. For fine dining, don’t even bother trying to decide between modern French delights at Quay, the delicious contemporary Australian cuisine at Rockpool or Yoshii Ryuichi’s innovative “Kaiseki” style Japanese at Yoshi –set your sight on all three. The experience ay each contrasting There are plenty of other places to indulge your palate in the Rocks, fine Italian dinning, Sailors Thai –ranked as Australia’s best Thai Restaurant by the country’s national restaurant  association  and a favourite of the food critics the world over-and Wildfire which boasts one of the country’s best wine lists. You can also nestle in at Castle cove-where the views are second to none-and enjoy some of Sydney’s best seafood at waterfront or a prime Hereford beef steak at Wolfie’s grill. The Rocks harbours a multitude of cosy cafes, perfect for breakfast, a casual lunch or coffee and cake any time of the day.

Ulladulla You reach Lake Conjola by way of its access road from the Princes Highway about 10 km north of Milton. It is a deep coastal lake regularly open to the sea which provides a wonderful playground for fishers and boaters.
On the south of the lake, a wide range of facilities and services are available from the town of Lake Conjola from where you can take walks through the reserves by the lake or to the magnificent Conjola, Buckleys and Narrawallee beaches nearby. Other more northern access roads from the highway will take you to Bendalong and Manyana as well as a number of villages on the edge of the lake (such as the aptly named Fishermens Paradise and Killarney).
Off Cunjarong Point on the northern bank of the lake entrance, Green Island is a beautiful coastal attraction - known also for great scuba and surfing conditions.For details of tours, accommodation, businesses and services in the Lake Conjola region.

The regional city of Wangaratta is centrally located in the north-east of Victoria between Benalla and Wodonga on the main route from Melbourne to Sydney. Wangaratta features a large commercial center, primarily based along the attractive thoroughfare of Murphy Street and extending into adjacent Reid Street. Wangaratta's cultural precinct is located along Ford Street and Ovens Street and includes notable landmarks such as the towering Holy Trinity Anglican Cathedral (built between 1908 and 1909), St Patricks Church (construction commenced in 1865), the Exhibitions Gallery (1898), and the Playhouse Theater with its display of sculptured figurines on the front lawn. Wangaratta boasts a number of attractive parks and gardens within the town center. Enjoy walks along the Ovens River and through the delightful Apex Park, spend time in the central English-style King George V Gardens, or retreat to the tranquil sunken gardens of Merriwa Park which are surrounded by waterways and feature a lagoon, fernery and bush walking paths. For a swim, visit Sydney Beach which is accessible from the eastern end of Ovens Street, and is situated at a sandy bend near a weir on the Ovens River. Wangaratta is situated within an easy drive of major attractions in the area including the vast number of wineries around Rutherglen and the gourmet food and wine region around Milawa, Oxley and Tarrawingee. Wangaratta is at the northern end-point of the Great Alpine Road which traverses the Great Dividing Range and passes through the all year round holiday town of Bright, the alpine resort of Mount Hotham, the remote Snowy Mountains town of Omeo, and finally ending up at the large East Gippsland regional city of Bairnsdale, over 300 kilometres away. Yackandandah is a former gold mining town located in the north-east of Victoria, between Beechworth and Wodonga. Yackandandah's entire commercial center  has been classified by the National Trust and features well preserved buildings which date back to the mid and late 1800s during the height of the town's gold mining days. The local museum which houses the district's historical society is in the old Bank of Victoria building (built in 1860), while tourist information is available from the old Athenaeum (1878) which is located on High Street. Deciduous trees line many of the town's streets, particularly colourful during Autumn. A interesting drive can be enjoyed along Bells Flat Road. At Crossing Place, a walking track leads to "The Gorge" which is a man-made diversion of Yackandandah Creek that allowed miners to search for gold along the original creek bed. Bells Flat Road also passes through old gold mining areas featuring shafts and diggings. A short drive north-east of Yackandandah is the small community of Allans Flat, located in a rich agricultural area which is home to wineries and a strawberry farm. At the Allans Flat Reserve is a large lake which was originally created by gold dredging and is now a scenic spot for swimming and boating. The scenic township of Yea is situated between Seymour and Alexandra in a rich pastoral and dairying district.

Warrnambool is a city situated on Victoria's far south-west coast between Port Fairy and Port Campbell. The coast around Warrnambool and down to Cape Otway is known as the Shipwreck Coast, due to the large number of water vessels that ran aground in the 1800s and early 1900s due to ferocious weather conditions and the rocky coastline. These days, Warrnambool is a popular tourist destination with an extensive commercial centre based around Liebig Street, Kepler Street, Koroit Street and Timor Street, separated from the ocean by coastal reserves and parkland. Historic buildings within the city centre include the post office (built in 1870), courthouse (1871) and Western Hotel (1869). The Princes Highway through Warrnambool opens up into the grand boulevard of Raglan Parade, lined with Norfolk Pines within the wide central median strip. Warrnambool enjoys a good variety of coastal attractions. The main swimming beach is the patrolled sandy expanse of Bathing Beach, situated at the top of Lady Bay. Behind the beach is the 34 hectare Lake Pertobe Adventure Park . At Logans Beach, adjacent to the mouth of the Hopkins River, is a whale viewing platform, making it one the region's best observation points for these mammals during the calving season between June and September .while to the west of the breakwater are two islands, sheltered swimming areas at the sandy mouth of the Merri River, and the attractive rocky coastal features of Pickering Point and Thunder Point. Warrnambool boasts a number of attractive parks and gardens including the colourful Fletcher Jones Gardens, set within the grounds of the clothing factory and floodlit at night. Warrnambool's rich maritime history can be explored at Flagstaff Hill, which is a recreated 19th century sea port with interactive displays and buildings created from authentic materials. A short drive east of Warrnambool are the Hopkins Falls, located on the Hopkins River, with picnic areas and walking tracks. Roughly half-way between Warrnambool and Port Fairy is the Tower Hill State Game Reserve, covering 615 hectares within an extinct volcano and including walking tracks, lookouts and lakes. 12 kilometres east of Warrnambool, where the Princes Highway meets the Great Ocean Road is the small town of Allansford. Attractions in the area include Cheeseworld - a cheese and wine cellar - as well as the Warrnambool Cheese and Butter Factory which has been manufacturing products from milk since 1888. The large town of Warracknabeal is situated north of Horsham in the west of the state. Warracknabeal's commercial centre can be found on Scott Street and features a number of historic buildings including the Tudor-style post office (built in 1907) and the old State Savings Bank building (1909) which now houses the Warracknabeal Historical Centre with its displays of furniture, pictures and clocks. The attractive Yarriambiack Creek flows through Warracknabeal, swelling north of Lyle Street where a number of parks and gardens line the waterwaya fauna park and a boat ramp. At the southern end of town is the Wheatlands Agricultural Machinery Museum with its vast collection of early agricultural machinery with particular emphasis on the wheat industry. The prosperity that Warracknabeal is now enjoying is the result of its diverse agricultural industries which include wheat, peas, beans as well as emu, ostrich and deer farms. The pastoral and farming community of Wycheproof is located between Charlton and Sea Lake on the main highway between Melbourne and Mildura. Warrnambool is home to many shipwrecks, a historic boathouse, a recreated maritime village and was Victoria’s most active port in the 1880s...A mysterious shipwreck buried deep beneath the sand dunes on Warrnambool’s outskirts is just one of the intriguing tales that contribute to the city’s unique history. A Portuguese vessel, fondly known by locals as “The Mahogany Ship” reportedly ran aground off Warrnambool in the 1500s. This local legend is supported by the discovery of Old Portuguese charts that depict Australia’s southern coastline as far as Armstrong’s Bay. It is believed these charts were drawn in the 1520s.If ever found or proven the Mahogany Ship and those Portuguese charts could rewrite the history of both Warrnambool and Australia. The 22km Mahogany Trail walking track extends from Warrnambool to Port Fairy passing the possible site. Take a walk and see if you can unravel the mystery. A high standard of fitness/experience is re Breakwater In the 1880s; the Port of Warrnambool handled more cargo than the Port of Melbourne and was a thriving deep sea port. In 1876, planning commenced to protect the harbour utilising huge concrete blocks weighing 32 tons each. The blocks were transported to the breakwater site by a specially built railway line, and construction was not completed until 1890. The Warrnambool Yacht Club was built nearby in 1959.Wollaston Bridge Pastoralist Walter Manifold operated a punt across the Merri River from 1880, purchasing the Wollaston property in 1884. In 1890 Manifold built the Wollaston suspension bridge, using cables from the Melbourne to Hawthorn tram service. The suspension bridge replaced an earlier wooden bridge which had been washed away in a heavy flood. Granny’s Grave This monument was erected in 1904 in recognition of the first white woman to be buried in Warrnambool. It marks the final resting place of Mrs. James Raddleston who died in 1848, when the Warrnambool settlement was less than a year old. Historic Shipwreck Trail Extending for 110 kilometres along the Great Ocean Road from Moonlight Head (near Princetown) to Port Fairy, the trail incorporates 25 shipwrecks marked by road signs and information plaques and provides a fascinating insight into the region’s shipwreck history. While the wrecks cannot be seen from the shore, it is easy to imagine the ships foundering in rough seas. Note that a high standard of fitness/experience is required to complete the entire walk. Proudfoot’s Boathouse Built over 100 years ago, the Hopkins River Boat House reflects the early days of fishing and boating on the Hopkins River. The building has been converted into a tavern bar, restaurant and tea rooms and features many historical photos and other items of interest. Classified by the National Trust as an early Australian recreational facility. War Memorial This monument was erected in 1925 to recognise those who served in World War 1 and 2, and to the services of Korean and Vietnam Veterans.
This impressive monument is made from red granite and the angel is carved from Italian marble Warrnambool and the National Song Waltzing Matilda - The Story Begins at Warrnambool Races Christina Macpherson was at Warrnambool's Annual Steeplechase Race Meeting in April 1894 when she heard the Warrnambool Town Band play the traditional Scottish tune, Thou Bonnie Wood of Craigie-Lea.

Western Australia's first World Heritage site - Shark Bay, is most famous for its smiling dolphins that come right into shore at Monkey Mia. The more secluded parts of this stunning peninsular are home to other incredible wildlife like manta rays, turtles and dugongs. Locals love Coral Bay - the small seaside settlement at the southern end of the Ningaloo coast. Head here to get away from it all and stay within metres of a beautiful beach and calm waters for safe snorkelling and swimming. The carefully preserved Ningaloo Marine Park is a bewitching marine experience. The untouched coral, amazing range of sea life and excellent visibility make for unforgettable diving and snorkelling.Secluded Islands to Rugged Red Gorges There are endless boat and beach fishing spots along the Coral Coast region coast, the hub of Western Australia's crayfishing industry. From Geraldton, fly or cruise to the Abrolhos Islands, where you'll find fascinating history, secluded beaches and sheltered snorkelling waters.
Inland, the desert-scape of Nambung National Park is home to the strange limestone pillars called the Pinnacles. One of the State's most magnificent and accessible national parks is Kalbarri. Steep gorges, carved out of the rugged red terrain over millions of years, provide amazing trekking and awesome scenery to capture on film. The mighty Murchison River winds its way through the park, hosting a plethora of birdlife along its banks, while dolphins play in the ocean reaches. This is where the river meets Kalbarri - the tranquil holiday town sandwiched between calm riverside beaches on one side and the thrill of the Shark Bay World Heritage Area was Western Australia's first world heritage listed area and one of only 16 Australia wide that fit all four selection criteria. Shark Bay's wilderness and natural wonders make for a unique holiday.
As well as the world-renowned affable dolphins of Monkey Mia, the many bays and inlets in the region are ablaze with multicoloured sea life. The turquoise waters are so clear that docile dugongs, manta rays and marine turtles are easy to spot. Shark Bay is also home to the remarkable Hamelin Pool stromatolites - the oldest and largest living fossils in the world. The mystery surrounding their origin has attracted scientists from across the globes, who have compared the find to that of a zoologist discovering a living dinosaur. Dancing with Dolphins in Monkey Mia Most visitors are drawn to the Shark Bay World Heritage Area for the chance to befriend some of Monkey Mia's enchanting bottle-nosed dolphins. Just a 30 minute drive northeast of Denham - the area's main town - Monkey Mia is a must for families and nature lovers. The dolphins are famous for their almost daily ritual of swimming to shore to interact with humans. Seven of them make regular beach visits, with up to 20 others occasionally stopping by to greet a captivated audience. Visitors may have the opportunity to feed the dolphins under the supervision of a national park ranger.

Wodonga is a city situated on the Murray River on the main route between Melbourne and Sydney. Its larger "twin" city of Albury is located on the other side of the river in New South Wales. Wodonga was founded in 1852, becoming an important river port for nearby Victorian goldfields, and the first bridge across the Murray River was built in 1860. In 1947, a migrant camp was established east of Wodonga at Bonegilla as part of the government's post-war migration scheme. During its 24 years of operation, a total of 320,000 people from 31 different ethnic backgrounds were temporarily housed at this reception centre. Today, just one of the 24 accommodation blocks and administration buildings remain on this 130 hectare site, and an interpretive centre has been built onto it which provides a vivid insight into the life of new arrivals to Australia. Wodonga has a large shopping precinct, primarily split between the Centro Wodonga Shopping Centre on Elgin Boulevard and the shops along much of the length of High Street. Near the southern end of High Street is an attractive triangular park known as Woodland Grove which features a 33 metre high water tower (built in 1923), war memorial, sculptures, paved pathways and a cafe overlooking the lawns. High Street leads to a large 6-way roundabout with gardens in its centre, and then becomes the wide boulevard known as Beechworth Road with lawns and trees planted along its central strip. There are a large selection of attractive parks and reserves throughout Wodonga, many situated along the numerous waterways in residential areas and incorporating a network of walking and bicycle tracks. Several of the larger parks feature a mixture of native and deciduous trees, particularly stunning in autumn when the leaves turn bright shades of orange and yellow. Sumsion Gardens, located just west of High Street at the northern end of the town centre, is surrounded a large lagoon. There is a walking track which goes right around the lake, plus picnic and BBQ facilities, shelters, a playground, and a rotunda accessed via a footbridge to a small island located within the lake. Wodonga is separated from Albury by Gateway Island which is surrounded by the Murray River and Wodonga Creek parkland, bush and beside the river. The state border between Victoria and New South Wales is located at the northern end of Gateway Island where Union Bridge crosses the Murray River. The entrance to the City of Wodonga at this point is marked by three brightly coloured spheres known as Porta, created by a local sculptor. Lake Hume is an artificial lake situated a short distance east of Wodonga, formed by the construction of a weir on the Murray River. The water is primarily used for irrigation and there is a hydro-electric power station installed within the dam wall. Wodonga is located within a short drive of several regional attractions including the wineries of Rutherglen and the historic towns of Chiltern, Beechworth and Yackandandah. For a longer scenic drive, follow the Murray Valley Highway eastwards out to Corryong or take the longer route via the Murray River Road which follows the river along its natural and picturesque upper reaches.