Aussie Backpacker Magazine

NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2011

BACKPACKER BACKPACKING GUIDE TO AUSTRALIA

WIN TIX TO T! FLICKERFES

Valued at $15

See page 12 for details

WIN MOONLIGHT CINEMA TIX Valued at $2500

See page 14 for details

AWESOME DEALS! FESTIVALS + PRIZES FREE! LOADS OF WORK! ACCOMMODATION RENTALS TOURS

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MAY-JUNE 2009

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JULY - AUGUST 2010

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Darwin to Alice Springs 1522km. 16.5hrs

Darwin

Cairns Broome

NORTHERN TERRITORY

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Perth

Brisbane to Townsville 1467km. 18hrs

QUEENSLAND

Alice Springs

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Townsville Airlie Beach

Brisbane

NEW SOUTH WALES

Perth to Darwin 4185km. 49hrs

Sydney

Adelaide Adelaide to Melbourne 738km. 8.5hrs

contents 8 10 15 28 31 32 34 36 40 41 46 48 56 58 62 64 68 72 76 79 80 82

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Sydney MAP - Sydney City Hire Cars / Campers / Buses / Trains Canberra - ACT Byron Bay - NSW Gold Coast - Qld Brisbane - Qld MAP - Brisbane MAP - South East Queensland Sunshine Coast - Qld Airlie Beach - Qld Townsville - Qld MAP - North Queensland Cairns - Qld Cape Tribulation - Qld Darwin - NT Perth - WA Adelaide - SA Melbourne - Vic Hobart - Tas Work Harvest Guide

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Surfers Paradise Byron Bay

Sydney to Brisbane 975km.

14.5hrs

Canberra Sydney to Canberra 285km. 4.15hrs

VICTORIA

Melbourne

Melbourne to Canberra 644km. 10hrs

Hobart

TASMANIA

on the cover.

WIN A TIX TO FLICKERFEST! PAGE 12 WIN MOONLIGHT CINEMA TIX! PAGE 14 Photo: Jenne Gimenez at Reef Magic Cruises Cairns

B AC K P BACKPACKER Editorial. Marie Erker Advertising. Warren Gardner & Marie Erker Art Design/Production. Marie Erker - Emkae Design Published by. North Australian Publishing Co Pty Ltd. ACN 050418865 440 Flinders Street, Townsville, Queensland 4810 Postal Address: PO Box 1264, Townsville, Qld 4810 Bookings Phone: (07) 4772 3244 Fax: (07) 4772 3250 Email: info@aussiebackpacker.com.au Website: www.aussiebackpacker.com.au Printed by. Caxton Web Aussie Backpacker is published by North Australian Publishing Co. Pty. Ltd bi-monthly for the promotion of the backpacker industry. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from North Australian Publishing Co. Pty. Ltd. Sections 52 and 53 of the Trade Practices Act forbid ‘misleading or deceptive conduct’ in trade or commerce and ‘false representation’ in the supply of goods and services. Breaches carry heavy penalities. The publisher accepts no responsibility for any of the contents herein. Advertisers and their agents have the primary responsibilty of ensuring that all the advertising in Aussie Backpacker complies with the Act.

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WELCOME TO

AUSTRALIA Some might believe that Australia was created simply for the enjoyment of backpackers - after all, Australia is so diverse: snow, deserts, rugged country, surf, sand, crystal blue waters, rainforests, national parks, islands, the Great Barrier Reef and an abundance of native wildlife. What more could you want? A slice of everything, that is the beauty of Australia.

While you’re in Oz, we encourage you to enjoy everything our country has to offer: cuddle a koala, take that white water rafting trip, go diving on the Great Barrier Reef, climb Ayer’s Rock, bushwalk in the high country of Victoria, attend the many weird and wonderful festivals and events across the country.

Is it any wonder that most people who come to visit Australia feel like staying forever? We’ve got the best of both worlds here in Oz - large cities for those who like the busy lifestyle, and smaller regional cities around the country that are fast becoming popular tourist destinations for visitors from all over the world.

Up one end of the country we have warm temperatures all year round, while at the other end you can snow ski on mountain tops throughout the winter months. And chances are that wherever you happen to be, you will run into someone from your own country... Australia has a huge multi-cultural population scattered the length and breadth of the countryside.

You can learn a lot from our Aborigines . . . listen to them tell their stories of Dreamtime, and if you get a chance, visit some of the ancient rock paintings which tell stories of times long gone by.

Swim at our beautiful beaches all year round they’re one of the things we’re most famous for!

- and dive the Great Barrier Reef for an experience you will remember for the rest of your life.

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SYDNEY FOR FREE! SYDNEY HARBOUR BRIDGE Catch a glimpse of one of the most famous vistas in Australia, the glittering harbour, from one of its most iconic structures, the Harbour Bridge. You will need to pay to climb the bridge, however you can walk over it for free, minus the vertigo!

THE ROCKS The Rocks are one of the most historically important areas in Sydney, as it is the home of some of Australia’s oldest buildings. You can amble through the tiny winding roads, window-shopping as you go, before stopping to check out the street theatre that often springs up on the weekend.

SYDNEY PARKS Sydney has a huge amount of green spaces and two of the best are Centennial Park, south of the city, and Bicentennial Park, located out west near Sydney Olympic Park. Centennial Park is a great place to cycle, rollerblade or just take a lakeside walk. Bicentennial Park has walkways, cycling path, picnic areas, a bird hide, a wetlands boardwalk and free barbeques. Both are a great place for a day out.

NIELSEN PARK & SYDNEY BEACHES Nielsen Park in Sydney’s Eastern suburbs is a picturesque spot for a picnic with friends. It’s right on the water’s edge so you can swim and sunbake to your heart’s content. Another great (free) activity is a day out at one of Sydney’s many beaches. Most of the major beaches are surf beaches, but there are plenty of idyllic harbour beaches as well.

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EVENTS LOVE LACE Until April 2012.

Powerhouse Museum, Ultimo Sydney www.powerhousemuseum.com OCEAN PACIFIKA FESTIVAL 27 November. Bondi Beach RED, WHITE & BLUES FESTIVAL 12 - 13 November. Cronulla Beach www.redwhiteandblues.com.au FLICKERFEST 6 - 15 January. Bondi Beach www.flickerfest.com.au

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Rd

Bra dfie ld H wy

son

SYDNEY CITY

HARBOUR BRIDGE

SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE

k Hic

THE ROCKS

MILLERS POINT

MRS MACQUARIE’S CHAIR

CIRCULAR QUAY

Bridge St

King St

WOOLLOOMOOLOO

Fove aux St

Taking a City Circle train, the Monorail or walking is the best way of seeing city attractions, while buses and ferries represent the best way to visit points and attractions around the harbour.

The Explorer Buses and Sydney Pass service represent an ideal and inexpensive way to see most of the main tourist points around the city NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2011

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Bourke St

Crown St

owning St

Ave Central Station

Bourke St

Lee St

Edd y

GETTING AROUND SYDNEY Sydney is one of the easiest cities to get around with its network of trains, buses and ferries.

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DARLINGHURST

Home Backpackers

Elizabeth St

Georg e St

le St Watt

HAYMARKET Wake Up! St mas Tho

Burton St

South D

il

Ox for dS t

Darl ingh u Victoria Strst Rd

We nt

Monora

wo rth

Goulburn St

KINGS CROSS

Crown St

ULTIMO

Hyde Park

College St

Liverpool St

William St

Ave

t ont S Pyrm s St Harn

Tumbalong Park

St

Pitt St Castlereagh St Elizabeth St

Market St

Bathurst

Broadway St

Macquarie St

George St

Martin Place

George St

Murray S t

York St

t ont S Pyrm

DARLING HARBOUR

Kent St Sussex St Western Dstr

PYRMONT

Royal Botanic Gardens

Oxfo rd St

200m

and out to Bondi.

Sydney Ferries, provide an inexpensive way of seeing the most beautiful harbour in the world.

For excursions around the harbour, private operators offer a myriad of harbour cruises that promise more than a just a simple ferry ride.

Use the CityRail services, or a combination of train, bus and ferry services to get you to your destination, then, for low cost travel for the day, on Buses, Ferries and Trains, buy a Day Tripper.

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SEPTEMBER - OCTOBER 2011

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Petersham Guest House Are dorms getting you down?

Then come sleep with us!

The place to stay in Sydney suburbs Double room - $240 p/week Twin Room - $240 p/week Single Room - $200 p/week Ensuite Room - $300 p/week 100 metres to Bus + Train 5kms from City Centre

PHONE CON

0414 450 273

23 Brighton Street, Petersham

HAPPY 21st FLICKERFEST! Celebrating 21 years of screening short internationally-acclaimed films, FLICKERFEST in 2012 will be open on Friday 6th January at Sydney’s Bondi Beach Pavilion. Film lovers and Australian celebrities of the silver screen will gather to party and take part in the leading short film festival that is also one of the greatest events on the Sydney summer calendar.

Each year FLICKERFEST handpicks over 100 films froma massive 1800 entries - all guaranteed to be the most innovative, provocative and entertaining shorts the world has to offer.

After wrapping up its ten day Sydney event the very best flicks from the festival will then hit the road for its annual tour between January and March, starting in Byron Bay on Saturday 21st January and covering 34 regional hotspots hungry for great films.

For festival info and national tour dates: www.flickerfest.com.au

WIN!

For your chance to win 1 of 10 tickets to FLICKERFEST email “I WANT TO GO TO FLICKERFEST” info@aussiebackpacker.com.au You must include your name, Australian address and contact number.

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Competition ends: 31 December 2011 Winner notified: 4 January 2012

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WIN 2 tickets to all sessions in all cities* all summer long! Valued at $2500. au Email ‘I want to go to Moonlight Cinema this summer’ to info@aussiebackpacker.com.

Please include name, Australian address and phone number

ed by 4 January 2012. *not marked ‘no free list’ . Competition ends 31 December 2011. Winner will be notifi

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DRIVING IN OZ DRIVING ON THE LEFT Australians drive on the left side and drivers should use the left lane of any given highway unless overtaking. Three cities operate trams, Adelaide, Sydney and Melbourne of which the latter is by far the largest. In general Trams always have right of way. In Melbourne's centre "hook turns" are used on many intersections where drivers turning right sit in the left lane across the junction indicating right until the traffic lights change and then turn right.

SPEED LIMITS In most States the maximum speed limit on freeways and major highways is 100kph and local urban limits range from 50 - 80 kph. In the Northern Territory there are highways that are free of any limits. All speed limits are clearly marked and all States operate sophisticated speed detection equipment including mobile and static speed cameras along with Red light cameras. Any fine incurred in Australia is the responsibility of the driver and should they be a foreign national the fine will be mailed to their home country address.

DRIVING IN THE OUTBACK The most important thing to remember should you decide to go "off Road" (off a sealed road) in the Outback is to seek local advice on your intended route as well as ensuring someone locally knows of your travel plans. If your vehicle does break down in a remote area stay with it do not attempt to walk. Generally people who stay with their vehicles are located quickly and easily. Please note, that some rental suppliers do have conditions that limit the operation of their vehicles in the outback.

Should you plan to go off road we suggest that you discuss your intended route with the rental company beforehand. It is a legal requirement that any gates opened to allow your vehicle to pass through are closed afterwards. Any travel across designated Aboriginal Land will require permission from the owners beforehand. As the permit process varies from state to state (and can take up to 6 weeks to obtain) it is best to contact the national parks' controlling body in each state prior to your journey.

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ROAD TRAINS A common sight in the Outback, particularly the Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia and Western Australia, are road trains. These are multi trailer trucks up to 50 metres (170 feet) long. Always allow plenty of room as you pass in the opposite direction of a road train as the displaced air causes severe buffering. When overtaking a road train allow 1.5 kilometres of clear road.

OUTBACK ROAD CONDITIONS Australia has an extreme of climates especially in the north. Minor roads that are passable in the Dry season (March-November) can disappear beneath a torrent of water during the "Wet".

Seek local advice should your travels take you off the main highways. Some things to look out for in country areas include potholes and rough surfaces, soft road edges and road surfaces changing without notice.

DRIVING AT NIGHT When driving at night particularly in the Outback care should be taken to lookout for wildlife that may stray onto the road. Animals are attracted by car lights. Collisions with animals such as the Red Kangaroo can cause substantial damage to your vehicle.

DRIVING LICENCE International visitors may drive in Australia on a valid overseas driver's licence that covers the same vehicle class. Whilst driving ensure that you carry your licence with you and if it is not in English carry a translation.

FUEL Petrol is sold in litres and comes in both unleaded and lead substitute forms. Prices will vary depending upon location and in the major cities you will see price fluctuations during any given week and national holidays.

DRIVER FATIGUE Owing to the size of Australia and distances travelled driver fatigue has been the cause of 20% of all traffic accidents. Rest every 2 hours giving yourself a 15 minute break even when close to your destination. www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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- ADVERTORIAL -

WHEEL DEALS IN NO TIME Looking for the best deals for cheap hire and campervan rentals? There’s no better time to click into www.drivenow.com.au to snap up a bargain in time for spring and summer road trips throughout Australia and New Zealand.

“It’s definitely a great time for deals with the dollar as strong as it is and the suppliers having plenty of stock available,” DriveNow’s Russell Matters tells Aussie Backpacker. “People are realizing the DriveNow site is always good for a hot deal on a car and campervan rentals, including $1 relocation specials that really resonate with backpackers.

“The outdoor road-tripping holiday experience is proving to be really popular at the moment too, because it’s so affordable and enjoyable”.

DriveNow delivers the widest choice of rental providers and vehicles to guarantee you the lowest and latest prices on car hire right across Australia all under the one roof, whether it be a small Hyundai Getz manual for a weekend up to a Holden Statesman V6, or a small two-berth Britz Hi-Top campervan to a Deluxe six-berth Kea motorhome to explore the Outback.

Rental prices and vehicles are laid out in an easy to read table allowing you to swiftly compare the best deals, daily rates and view vehicle features before you book. The discounts are ideal for those wanting to try before they buy or to simply hire a car or camper at cut-price rates.

DriveNow.com.au is the leader in the car and camper rental field with a range of suppliers to choose from at all major locations around Australia and New Zealand.

Visit www.drivenow.com.au for more information and great deals. DriveNow can also be found on Facebook.

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SKYBUS: A GREENER WAY TO TRAVEL • Buses run every 10 minutes during the day to or from Southern Cross Station or Melbourne Airport (Tullamarine).

• Adult ticket prices are $16 one way or $26 return.

• SkyBus timetable information can be found at www.skybus.com.au or via the SkyBus iPhone application.

• Ticket booths operate 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Booths are located at Southern Cross Station Coach Terminal and kerbside at Tullamarine Airport at terminal 1 and terminal 3. Friendly, knowledgeable SkyBus employees man them.

• SkyBus can also take passengers door to door to select city hotels and motels, at no extra cost, between 6am and 10.30pm Monday to Friday, and 7.30am - 5.30pm on weekends.

SKYBUS’ TOP 10 TIPS FOR TRAVELLING ‘GREEN’ 1 Reduce your carbon footprint by travelling to the airport and return with SkyBus, instead of taking a taxi by yourself.

2 Opt to ‘offset emissions’ when purchasing airline tickets. The fee is minimal.

3 Minimise how much you pack, to reduce weight on the plane and in cars and buses.

4

Leave the places you visit as you found them – don’t take from the environment or leave things behind.

5 Choose accommodations with ‘green’ credentials, such as eco resorts that use recycled water to flush toilets and water gardens.

6 Choose accommodation within walking or cycling distance of the key attractions you’d like to visit.

7 Don’t change your ‘green’ habits just because you’re on holidays; for example still keep showers short and recycle your rubbish.

LAUREN’S TOP 5 TRAVEL TIPS FOR HOLIDAYS ON A BUDGET 1 MAKE A BUDGET

Once you figure out where you are going, and for how long, make a daily spending budget and write down all anticipated costs.

2 RESEARCH, RESEARCH, RESEARCH

The best way to save money is to do your research, it’s so easy now to compare and save.

3 THINK ABOUT TRANSPORT

Where possible, experience your holiday destination on foot - it is better for the waistline and the wallet. Also keep a lookout for economical and reputable airport-to-city bus services like SkyBus. EAT LOCAL AND COOK SOME OF YOUR OWN MEALS Instead of dining out for every with somewhere stay meal, cooking facilities so that you can cook some of your own meals. Tuck into fresh local produce purchased at markets or grocery stores.

4

5 FIND OUT WHAT’S FOR FREE You don’t have to spend a fortune to experience holiday a destination its and culture. A picnic at the local park or at the beach is a great way to soak up the p ere. atmosph

8 If staying in a hotel, don’t opt to have your towels washed every day.

9 Reduce food miles by enjoying the local, fresh produce – one of the great joys of travelling.

10 Unplug electronics and appliances at home before you leave for your trip.

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WATER SAFETY BEACHES • Choose to swim at beaches patrolled by surf lifesavers or lifeguards. If a beach is not patrolled: - Always check that it is OK to swim.

- Never swim alone.

- Don’t swim too closely to rocks.

- Read and obey any water safety signs.

• Swim between the red and yellow flags.

• Never swim under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

• Don’t swim at night.

• Be mindful of the surf conditions. In large surf observe all warning signs and only go riding if you are experienced.

• Know your limits and be mindful that large dumping waves or surging waves are very strong and can easily knock you off your feet and sometimes drag you out into deep water.

FLAG TYPES ON BEACHES

RIP CURRENTS A rip is a strong current which begins close to the shore and runs away from the beach.

Rips can easily sweep swimmers out to sea from shallow water and are one of the most hazardous aspects of beach swimming. To avoid getting caught in a rip, always swim between the flags, observe the safety signs and learn how to spot a rip.

Common signs of a rip are: • Darker water, indicating deeper water.

• Murky brown water caused by sand stirred up by faster moving water.

• A choppy or rippled look, when the water around is generally calm.

• In large surf, a smoother surface with much smaller waves.

• An area with few breaking waves on a beach with surf at that time.

• Foam or debris floating out to sea.

If you find yourself caught in a rip: • Stay calm. Don’t panic.

• Raise an arm to attract attention if you feel you need help.

• Do not try to swim against the current.

• If you are confident, swim parallel to the beach - often this is towards the breaking waves, which can then assist you back to shore.

• If at any time you feel you will be unable to reach the beach or have limited ability, raise your arm and stay calm. Float to conserve your energy and call for assistance.

Red & yellow flag: These flags show the supervised areas of the beach and that lifesaving services are not operating. No flags = no swim.

Red flag: These indicate that the beach is closed and that you should not enter the water.

Blue flag: These indicate the areas where board riding and surfing is not permitted.

Yellow flag: These indicate that there are potential hazards in the water.

Look out for the yellow warning sign that should be displayed with the flag for further information about the hazard.

Red and white quartered flag: This indicates an emergency evacuation and you should leave the water immediately.

MARINE STINGERS Many Australian beaches attract a variety of jellyfish, collectively known as marine stingers. It is important to follow some simple rules to avoid the likelihood of coming into contact with them.

• Don’t touch marine stingers washed up on the beach, they can still sting you.

• Swim in the stinger nets where provided.

• Enter the water slowly - this gives marine stingers time to move away.

Contribution: Pro Visual Publishing: Backpackers Guide to Local Safety 2011. www.provisual.com.au

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Work availab see pagle e 90

SYDNEY’S CRONULLA BEACH Cronulla Coast is Sydney’s longest beach, just a ferry ride from the Royal National Park or take a 50 minute train trip from Circular Quay. Around the Cronulla Coast and in the Sutherland Shire, there’s top surfing, fishing, glorious hiking, whalewatching or just lazing on unspoilt beaches.

Cronulla itself has Sydney’s longest beach and a sparkling outdoor café scene. Just south of Cronulla, a ferry ride across Port Hacking River, is the peaceful village of Bundeena.

SURFING SPOTS The beaches of Bate Bay/Cronulla provide the best quality of any other single stretch of coastline, headland to headland. From north to south there are more than 24 surf breaks and another 5km of possible beach breaks available to surfers of all abilities.

WALKS The Esplanade walk starts at Cronulla Beach and loops south around the Cronulla Peninsula. This 6km walk is an ideal way to view the stunning coastline and impressive waterfront homes while you take memorable holiday snaps.

THINGS TO DO • Catch a ferry to Bundeena, then walk the Coastal Track in the Royal National Park and explore its secluded beaches.

• Dine out in the restaurants and alfresco cafés lining Cronulla’s foreshore.

• Snorkel and scuba dive in Botany Bay, Port Hacking or in ocean sites off the Cronulla coast.

• Take the one hour walk via Jibbon Beach to see the Aboriginal rock engravings made by the Dharawal people.

• Don’t miss out on learning to surf at Cronulla Beach or visiting the Frangipani Gelato shop. www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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CANBERRA FOR FREE! PARLIAMENT HOUSE Parliament House is Australia’s most expensive building and when Parliament isn’t sitting you can take a guided tour to explore it. When Parliament is in session, you’re free to sit in the public gallery and watch proceedings (no heckling!)

MOUNT AINSLIE LOOKOUT From this lookout you can get an idea as to the layout of the Parliamentary Triangle, which is the area falling between Capitol Hill, City Hill and Russell Hill, as well as the city. There is also a beautiful walking track starting at the top of Mount Ainslie and leading through Rememberance Nature Park to the Australian War Memorial.

DIPLOMATIC MISSIONS The suburb of Yarralumla is home to diplomatic missions from all around the world. Many of the countries have built or renovated their buildings to represent the architectural influences of their home countries. This diversity is reinforced on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin, which has a permanent International Flag Display.

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF AUSTRALIA General admission to this treasure trove of all things Australian is free, and this museum is definitely worth a visit. The museum is dedicated to everything Australian and has a huge range of varied exhibits, including such oddities as the carcass of a Tasmanian Tiger (species that is now extinct). The museum is located on the Acton Peninsula.

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EVENTS CANBERRA COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL 18 - 20 November www.canberracountry.com TUGGERANONG FESTIVAL 26 November www.tuggeranongfestival.org.au LIGHTING OF THE CHRISTMAS TREE 2 December. 7pm. Civic Square

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NSW: ROAD TRIP! You can’t beat getting back to nature on a road trip across the state. There are literally hundreds of nature adventures in NSW, including this example that includes glorious hot springs, challenging walks, rock climbing, waterfalls and star gazing wonders.

• Just 5 hours from Sydney is Coonabarabran, with its spectacular Warrumbungles. Take in the spectacular rocky landscape with on the dramatic Grand High Tops track where you’ll see ancient volcanic remnants. For the experienced rock climber try scaling The Breadknife and Split Rock with its craggy pinnacles.

• Connabarabran is home to Australia’s largest observatory, Siding spring Observatory, so make sure you pick a clear night and see the starry night sky like never before.

• Drop by the Sandstone Caves just north of Coonabarabran with in the Pilliga Nature Reserve. A series of cathedral type caves, the picturesque Sandstone Caves are of significant importance to the local Gamilaraay people.

THE BREADKNIFE

• Near Narrabri hike the spectacular Waa Gorge in Mount Kaputar National Park.

• At Lightning Ridge enjoy an Artisan Bath, open 24 hours a day and free admission, the water is pumped from 900m below the surface at an average of 42 degrees or enjoy a walk in a mine and discover what it is like to go underground and dig for Opals in the heartland of opal mining territory.

• While in Lightning Ridge hand-pick a cactus at Bevans Black Opal and Cactus Nursery, the southern hemisphere’s largest cactus farm, and then take a self drive Car Door Tour through the remarkable landscape.

• In Moree soak it up in the hot springs or enjoy a beer at the Amaroo Tavern alongside a DC3 aeroplane from World War II. • At Glen Innes see the country side on a Pub Crawl on Horseback.

• Gace at the highest waterfall in NSW at Wollomombi in Wild Oxley Rivers National Park near Armidale. Hike through deep dramatic gorges with awe-inspiring ridgelines, towering rock outcrops, fern lined gullies, cascading waterfalls and stay in mountain style huts along the way. www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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PORT MACQUARIE Port Macquarie has long been a hotspot for backpackers with its wonderful scenery, 17 beaches and surf lifestyle, a variety of free activities and attractions - including the muchloved Koala Hospital - and it’s a halfway stop-off to Bryon Bay from Sydney.

CAMPSITES WITH WATER VIEWS For million dollar water views on a budget, you can’t beat these camping locations: • Sundowner Breakwall Tourist Park • Edgewater Holiday Park • Bonny Hills Caravan Park • Diamond Waters Caravan Park • Jacaranda Caravan Park ‘FREE’ ATTRACTIONS AND ACTIVITIES • The Koala Hospital - the world’s first hospital dedicated to the care and preservation of the koala offers free entry. Join the ‘Feed, Walk and Talk’ tour every afternoon at 3.00pm • The Coastal Walk - pack a picnic and do the 9km Coastal Walk from the town centre to Lighthouse Beach.

• Convict Trail - an insight into Port’s convict heritage from 1821 to 1847, a six kilometre trail takes in 13 sites including the Historical Society Museum and St Thomas’ Church.

• Galleries and Art - over 600 artists, designers and creative groups offer galleries and studios to browse, public art displays, markets and craft centres.

• North Brother Mountain - head to the top for 360 degree views, accessible lookouts, and a BBQ lunch followed by a 30 minute Rainforest Loop walk.

• Kooloonbung Creek Nature Park - 3km of walking trails and boardwalks though different ecosystems just a short walk from town, ideal for bird watching with 165 different species

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Other attractions with a small entry fee or cost: • Bush-Tucker tour at Sea Acres Rainforest Centre • Golf or Indoor Bowling • Swim, cycle and run on a Triathlon course • Water-ski or jet-ski at Stoney Park Watersports and Recreation Centre • Horse-riding at Bellrowan Valley, bush-walking and guided tours.

TOP THREE SCENIC DAY TRIPS: Port Macquarie offers two very different worlds - a pretty coastline with 17 beaches and 40,000 hectares of lush green valleys and forests in the hinterland. Pick up a free ‘Glovebox Trails Guide’ and maps with suggested stop-offs from the Visitor Information Centre and head to Camden Haven in the South and Wauchope in the West 1. Hinterland Villages and Spectacular Waterfalls - a three-hour discovery drive of rolling green hills and ‘country treats’ at Byabarra, Comboyne and Ellenborough Falls.

2. Explore the Camden Haven - a half-day drive to picturesque and quiet coastal villages of Lake Cathie, Bonny Hills, majestic North Brother Mountain and Dunbogan.

3. Wauchope - The Timbertown - a half-day loop drive to the rural township of Wauchope with its heritage theme park, Bago State Forest, two local wineries and Lake Cathie.

GETTING TO PORT: Easy turn-off halfway to Bryon Bay from Sydney Located halfway between Sydney and Byron Bay on the Mid North Coast of NSW, Port Macquarie is an ideal stopover. It is a four hour drive north of Sydney or a seven hour drive south of Brisbane.

The town centre is a 15-minute turn off from the Pacific Highway, so it’s a short detour before hitting the road again.

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

18/10/2011 10:53:08 AM

BYRON BAY FOR FREE! BYRON BAY LIGHTHOUSE Byron’s greatest attraction is the Byron Bay lighthouse.

It is located only 300 metres south of Australia’s easternmost point, Cape Byron. The lighthouse, one of the most powerful on the New South Wales coast had a range of 42km out to sea at a time when lighthouses were vital for navigation. It was built of concrete blocks which meant there was no need to quarry for sandstone in the local area.

CAPE BYRON HEADLAND RESERVE The delightful Cape Byron Headland Reserve and walking track heads both north and south from the lighthouse. The northerly walking track winds around cliffs to the most easterly point before dropping down to Little Wategos and Wategos Beach and the southerly track heads down the ridge towards Captain Cook’s Lookout.

BYRON’S BEACHES In the shire there is a total of 37km of sandy beaches.

Wategos, Main Beach, Broken Head and The Pass are patrolled beaches. For nudists there is a nude beach which has been designated by Byron Council. It is located 500 metres west of Belongil Creek and can be accessed by driving down Grays Lane at Tygarah.

MARKETS BANGALOW MUSIC FESTIVAL 12 - 14 August www.southernxsoloists.com BYRON BAY MARKETS 1st & 5th Sunday each month. 7am Butler St Reserve BYRON FARMERS MARKET Every Thursday. 8am - 11am Butler St Reserve BANGALOW MARKET 4th Sunday each month. 8am - 11am Bangalow Showgrounds BRUNSWICK HEAD MARKETS 1st Saturday each month. 8am - 11am Memorial Park

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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GOLD COAST FOR FREE! SURFERS PARADISE BEACHFRONT MARKETS Explore up to 100 market stalls stretching over half a kilometre of beachfront promenade along Surfers Paradise beach, every Wednesday and Friday evening from 5.30pm - 10pm.

The Surfers Paradise Beachfront Markets has a selection of locally made gift ideas ranging from accessories, crafts, artworks, beauty products, homewares, jewellery and music. The Beachfront Markets are located along The Esplanade between Hanlan Street and Elkhorn Avenue.

GOLD COAST CITY ART GALLERY Home to an extensive collection of works including ceramics and host to some of Australia’s most prestigious art prizes. Tours are available Monday to Friday from 10am to 5pm and weekends and public holidays 11am to 5pm. Tours are free however bookings essential. www.qcac.com.au MOUNT TAMBORINE A world of tropical rainforests, cosy cottages, antique shops, authentic art and craft villages, walking tracks through nine National Parks and accommodation to suit all budgets. www.tamborinemtncc.org.au OCEAN WALKING Pristine beaches, foreshore walkways and headland views spanning 36km, with music, markets, cycleways, and special events. Southern Points Promenade is a walkway exploring the beauty of Kirra, Coolangatta, Rainbow Bay and Greenmount. Highlights of the City’s north include the Broadwater, Paradise Point and Labrador.

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EVENTS GOLD COAST FILM FESTIVAL 21 - 27 November. Southport www.gcfilmfestival.com

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

18/10/2011 10:55:28 AM

SURFERS PARADISE Surfers Paradise is the jewel of Queensland’s Gold Coast and one of the most popular holiday destinations in Australia. Surfers Paradise is where you’ll find the perfect fusion of city and beach lifestyles set amidst a spectacular skyline and brilliant stretch of coast. Once you arrive, you’ll soon feel that you’ve literally arrived in paradise.

Vibrant and eclectic, Surfers Paradise provides non-stop action. With an abundance of theme parks and family attractions all in easy access, you’re never short of finding things to do. The trouble instead may be finding enough time to do everything.

And when nightfall comes, Surfers bursts into action with 24-hour excitement. Bars and nightclubs start pumping with live music and

dance beats, while non-stop events keep you entertained.

And the next day when you’re tired from all of the action, grab your towel and hit the beach.

Learn how to surf or watch the pros make it look so easy. If you’re around in March, you’ll be able to witness incredibly fit athletes competing in the Quicksilver Pro-Surfing Competition and the Surf Life Saving Championships.

BIRDS EYE VIEW: To gain a truly unique perspective on this city centre, venture over to the world’s tallest residential apartment building, the Q1. Topping 80 levels and with a visitor observation lounge on the 78th floor, it is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the Gold Coast and beyond.

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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BRISBANE FOR FREE! SOUTH BANK PARKLANDS This is one of the most beautiful walking areas in all of Australia. Among the things to do and see are the formal gardens, the Nepalese Temple, and the amazing swimming lagoon (complete with its own lifeguards and sandy beach). The beautiful tropical vegetation provides the perfect backdrop for a relaxed barbeque or picnic.

MT COOT-THA LOOKOUT This beautiful lookout is located in Toowong, on Sir Samuel Griffith Drive. You can see the whole city of Brisbane laid out, and trace the winding route of the Brisbane River.

QUEENSLAND MUSEUM Banish thoughts of dusty displays, the Queensland Museum is an interactive, dynamic place with something to amuse everyone. Touch, push, feel and listen to learn more about our world.

Open 9.30am - 5pm daily.

BRISBANE POWERHOUSE The former power station has become a distinct Brisbane landmark, both as a stunning industrial creation and as a hub for everything creative, including theatre, music, comedy, film, visual arts, festivals and ideas. www.brisbanepowerhouse.org CITY LOOP BUS The FREE City Loop Bus circles Brisbane’s Central Business District and stops at several destinations including Central Station, Queen Street Mall, City Botanic Gardens, Riverside Centre, QUT and King George Square. For timetable information on this FREE Loop service go to www.translink.com.au

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EVENTS BRISBANE INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL 3 - 13 November. www.biff.com.au BRISSTYLE INDIE TWILIGHT MARKET 16 December. 5pm-9pm King George Square. www.bris-style.com SOUTH BANK LIFESTYLE MARKET Fridays & Saturdays 5pm - 10pm Sundays 9am - 5pm www.southbankmarket.com.au

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

18/10/2011 10:56:57 AM

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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BRISBANE CITY

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Brisbane Convention & Exhibition Centre

South Bank TAFE

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www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

18/10/2011 10:57:46 AM

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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GETTING AROUND BRISBANE Brisbane's excellent transport infrastructure makes it relatively easy to get from point A to point Z and virtually anywhere in between with minimal interruptions or changes.

Buses, trains, CityCat Ferries, hire cars, taxis and even water taxis are all available at regular intervals throughout the day and night and there's little chance of you being stuck in the middle of nowhere and no way to get home. Perhaps the one area where Brisbane's transport system lets the city down is getting to and from the airport at night — express trains run throughout the day, but after 7.30pm the domestic and international railway stations shut down, leaving it to public and private bus companies (and of course taxis and limousines) to pick up the slack.

The Queensland Government's transport website. www.translink.com.au, provides a detailed trip planning guide with fare calculators, timetables and suggestions on the best way to get between any two points in Queensland, right down to how far you have to walk to the bus stop.

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www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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A1

To Mackay, Whitsundays, Airlie Beach & TOWNSVILLE

SOUTH EAST QUEENSLAND

ROCKHAMPTON A4

GLADSTONE 60

39

Agnes Water

17

Biloela

A5

Coral Coast

A3 A1

BUNDABERG

Theodore Fraser Island Torquay

Mundubbera Biggenden

Maryborough

Fraser Coast Rainbow Beach

A3

GYMPIE 39

Noosa Heads

A5

Kingaroy Miles

Nambour

Nanango

Chinchilla

Sunshine Coast Maroochydore

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Caloundra

A2

Dalby

49

A5

Moreton Island North Stradbroke Island

A1

A2

TOOWOOMBA

BRISBANE Gold Coast

IPSWICH

Nerang

Beaudesert

85

A39

13

Warwick

QUEENSLAND

TWEED HEADS

15

Goondiwindi

Byron Bay

NEW SOUTH WALES

44

Texas

Lismore BALLINA

Tenterfield 39

A1

15

Moree Glen Innes 40

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To SYDNEY

38

Grafton

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

18/10/2011 10:58:37 AM

SUNSHINE COAST FOR FREE! THE BEACH The Sunshine Coast boasts an array of fine beaches.

With over 70 kilometres of surf beaches, there are many unspoilt and secluded areas.

EUMUNDI MARKETS One of the largest in Queensland, over 600 stalls offering local produce, old wares, arts and crafts. They operate Wednesday and Saturday mornings, attracting over 1.6 million visitors annually.

GINGER FACTORY, YANDINA The Ginger Factory at Yandina is a theme park dedicated to the ginger plant, where you’ll be astounded to discover ginger’s versatility and uses in food, health preparations and beauty products. Charges are made for the train ride and some tours.

THE CALM BEHIND THE COAST Explore quaint villages along the Blackall Range, through the Glass House Mountains and up to the scenic Mary Valley. Charming townships such as Mapleton, Montville and Maleny offer stunning views, rainforest walks, fresh produce, local wines, cheeses, fine arts and crafts and cosy B&Bs and cottages.

FEED THE DOLPHINS AT TIN CAN BAY Tin Can Bay is one of only three places in Australia where you can hand feed the rare Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins. It is free to watch the dolphins come in and hang around. Feeding the dolphins cost $5 per person and usually starts at 7.30am and continues until 11am (unless the dolphins decide to depart beforehand). www.barnaclesdolphins.com.au

EVENTS EUMUNDI MARKETS All year round. Eumundi. www.eumundimarkets.com.au Wednesdays 8am-1:30pm Saturdays 6:30am - 2pm STEVE IRWIN DAY 15 November. www.australiazoo.com.au WOODFORD FOLK FESTIVAL 27 December - 1 December www.woodfordfolkfestival.com

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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COAST ADVENTURE The Coast begins at Caloundra, just one hour’s drive north of Brisbane and extends to Cooloola, the gateway to Fraser Island. It takes in tranquil hinterland including the Glass House Mountains, Blackall Range, Noosa Hinterland and the Mary Valley; as well as more than 100 kilometres of beaches stretching through the coastal towns of Caloundra, Kawana, Mooloolaba, Maroochydore, Coolum Beach, Noosa and Rainbow Beach.

Located centrally on the Sunshine Coast, Mooloolaba is the ideal base to explore this natural paradise. Take advantage of this coastal destination and book in for a fishing tour, cruise on the canals, snorkel in the sea or joy ride on a jet ski. At a depth of 27 metres, scuba enthusiasts will be amazed at the ex-HMAS Brisbane and enjoy the possibility of actually diving into the engine and boiler rooms.

NO OTHER ZOO LIKE AUSTRALIA ZOO If you’ve ever wanted to cuddle a koala, handfeed an Asian Elephant, walk alongside a Bengal Tiger, take a Tasmanian Devil for a stroll, wrap a snake around your shoulders or watch a massive Saltwater Crocodile launch a strike from the water’s edge, then Australia Zoo is your ultimate destination.

READY FOR THE ULTIMATE ADVENTURE? Imagine this - you wake up, it’s a normal day.

Then... you remember that you are diving with the sharks at UnderWater World.

Your blood starts pumping and you start breathing faster - and you’re not even there yet! You arrive at UnderWater World and meet Noel, your diving instructor for the day.

Noel puts you at ease. He’s been diving for 12 years, he’s calm and knowledgeable. You learn about the creatures you will be diving with and get the hang of breathing under water quickly. You’re feeling pretty good about the whole adventure now until Noel reminds you not to flap your hands around in case a shark mistakes them for fish.

But once you’re in the water your fears disappear.

A Black tip reef shark glides past with grace, a baby Sandbar whaler skims in and out of schools of colourful Trevally and the Giant leopard ray floats through the water around you. This is the most incredible thing you have ever done!

Put yourself in this story. UnderWater World will be offering a new experience in Shark Dives later this year.

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www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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FRASER COAST FOR FREE! PAVILION BY THE PIER Pavilion by the Pier at Hervey Bay is a casual and relaxed atmosphere where you can overlook the calm waters of the bay, the Urangan pier and the heritage listed Fraser Island.

WHALE WATCHING From mid July to early November, Hervey Bay has become famous as the playground of the majestic humpback whales on their return to the Antarctic. A variety of vessels offer whale watching trips during the season and visitors can choose from either a dawn, morning, afternoon or full-day cruise (charges apply).

MARKETS Weekends on the Fraser Coast provide an opportunity to visit the local markets, to seek out bargains and hunt for treasures just waiting to be found. Not to be missed is the firing of the Time Cannon at 1pm, held every thursday at the conclusion of the Heritage Markets in the main street of Maryborough.

COLOURED SANDS Walk eastwards from the township of Rainbow Beach and see the enormous, impressive sandy cliffs, which can be up to 200 metres in height. Erosion has exposed a palette of as many as 72 different coloured sands.

CARLO SAND BLOW A bush walk u pto Carlo Sand Blow is a must for every visitor. Drive to the reservoir at the top of Cooloola Drive at Rainbow Beach. The Blow is an easy 600m walk from the car park. It’s an excellent spot to watch the sunrise or sunset.

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EVENTS DINGO DAY 11 December. 9am-4pm Apex Park, Scarness, Hervey Bay CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT 17 December. Seafront Oval, Pialba HARBOUR VIEW TWILIGHT MARKETS Every Friday. 4pm-8pm Urangan Marina

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

18/10/2011 11:06:46 AM

AGNES WATER / 1770 Previously seen as merely a ‘stopover’, Agnes Water/1770 is a true destination - come for a few days and you won’t want to leave!

Discovered on 24th May 1770 by Lt James Cook and crew aboard HMS Endeavour and now recognised as the birthplace of Queensland, there is more to do in these two gorgeous villages than almost any other destination!

Located on the magical, sun drenched stretch of sub-tropical surf coastline north of Fraser Island and south of the Whitsundays, Agnes Water 1770 can be accessed by road, rail and air.

With the most northerly surf beach on the east coast of Australia and home to the reknowned Longboard Classic each March, the Agnes Water Blues & Roots Festival each February, and the iconic Captain Cook 1770 Festival held annually in May, the Discovery Coast is waiting to delight you!

There is easy and direct access to the southern Great Barrier Reef for incredible diving and snorkelling on a variety of pristine reefs. See turtles all year round (nesting NovemberFebruary), and migrating Humpback whales (June - November).

National and Marine parks encircle 1770 Agnes Water providing endless places to explore.

With a range of activities and accommodation there is something to suit everyone’s budget, timeframe and special interests such as snorkeling and Great Barrier Reef exploring in the protected Fitzroy Reef Lagoon or Lady Musgrave Island, surfing, scuba diving, Riding the LARC, a pink amphibious vehicle that experiences unspoilt beaches, estuaries, Bustard Head Bay and lighthouse, fishing, kayaking, relaxing, dining, walking, 4WDing and exploring. What are you waiting for?

ENJOY THE DISCOVERY COAST FOR FREE • Comb the sand for washed up trasures while walking endless stretches of beach.

• Trek the breathtaking National Park trails through temperate rainforest and coastal bushland.

• Admire the sunrise or sunset over the Coral Sea. • Drop a fishing line into the tidal flow at Round Hill Creek.

• Watch migrating humpback whales from the vantage point on Round Hill Head (July November).

• Discover coastal rock pools at low tide.

• Unpack a picnic lunch beneath the rainforest canopy beside a tumbling mountain stream.

• Grab your binoculars, pick up a species list from the LARC office and go bird watching.

• Explore the Red Rock Trail, starting at Springs Beach and meandering south along boardwalks, beaches and tracks.

The long, golden sand beaches are an ideal place to while away holiday moments, enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds this majestic location. Magnificent estuaries, coastal rainforests, www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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AIRLIE BEACH FOR FREE! WHITSUNDAYS GREAT WALK Whether you decide on a short, full-day, overnight or extended walk, The Whitsunday Great Walk and the new Ngaro Sea Trail offer a rare visitor experience that few have ever partcipated in.

AIRLIE BEACH LAGOON The Lagoon has become the focal and topical point of the area. When you want to meet someone, you meet “at the Lagoon”. If you want to position your accommodation venues, it’s “a few hundred metres from the Lagoon”. If you want a great day of relaxation with no admission fee.... “spend a day at the Lagoon”.

CEDAR CREEK FALLS Located 19 kilometres from Proserpine on Conway Beach Road is the picturesque Cedar Creek Falls. These falls are spectacular in the wet season and offer a yearround natural swimming pool at the base of the falls.

They are set in a natural rock amphitheature.

RANGES AND RAINFOREST Stretching from the Conway Range to the Whitsunday Passage, the Conway area offers a remarkable range of natural experiences. Explore lowland tropical rainforest, picturesque creeks and lofty peaks overlooking Airlie Beach. A refuge for wildlife, including 20 rainforest plant species found only in this region, walkers can escape to these wildlife havens where cool rainforest, fragrant eucalypts and dramatic views revive the senses.

EVENTS TWILIGHT YACHT RACING Every Wednesday. 3pm - 7pm Whitsunday Sailing Club BAREFOOT BOWLS Every Friday. 7.30pm - 10pm Airlie Beach Bowls Club AIRLIE BEACH MARKETS Every Saturday. 7am - 1pm Airlie Beach Foreshore

As recommended

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up to

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www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

18/10/2011 11:10:44 AM

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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TOWNSVILLE FOR FREE! HERITAGE TRAILS Townsville’s heritage walking trails are a must do for anybody who wants to experience the city’s diversity of historial architecture, lush tropical gardens and impressive array of natural attractions.

CASTLE HILL Castle Hill is a red rock monolith in the heart of Townsville offering panoramic views, and a slice of military history.

THE STRAND One of the man-made wonders in Townsville is The Strand on the beachfront. Being close to the centre of town The Strand offers a variety of activities for all.

EVENTS STRAND NIGHT MARKETS 1st Friday monthly (May-Dec) 5pm - 9.30pm COTTERS MARKETS Sundays. 8.30am - 1pm.

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• Most popular, most Central Backpacker meeting place for internet access $150 = 15mins • FREE Advertising on popular notice board for $2 = 35mins lifts, sell car/van, share accommodation $4 = 70mins • Print from USB $10 = 3hrs • Luggage Storage Scans from $1.50 Overseas Fax from $2.00 • Original Local Aboriginal Art for Sale

20 c

COOLWORKSPACES

To the STRAND

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• Information Centre • Tea & Coffee • Huge Kitchen • Crisp white sheets • Pool, sundeck & BBQ • Parking for campervans • Marsala Indian cuisine • Cheap weekly Rates

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BOOKINGS 1800 211 522

79 Palmer Street. Townsville adventurersresort@hotmail.com www.adventurersresort.com

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www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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*Snorkel hire subject to weather conditions. Prices from 1/01/10 to 31/03/11 and subject to change.

PHONE 1800 636 778 or 07 4772 5800 Flinders Square, Townsville

Full Moon Party Tickets Available Here!

STANDBY Dive Trips & Sailing Adventures

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www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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*Snorkel hire subject to weather conditions. Prices from 1/01/10 to 31/03/11 and subject to change.

MAGNETIC ISLAND

Get to M a for onlyggie

FOR FREE!

$29 return wit

Sealinhk!

UNSPOILT BEACHES 23 secluded bays and beaches make Magnetic Island a must do Queensland stopover. Uncrowded and unspoilt - featuring fringing reef that can be snorkelled from the beach.

WALKING TRAILS After all the relaxing on the beaches of Magnetic Island, the offering of 15km of walking trails through the National Park will show the diverse environments.

KOALAS IN THE WILD The Forts Walk on Magnetic Island is the best spot to see koala’s in the wild at dusk and dawn.

THE MOLTKE DIVE SITE The Moltke is a wreck dive accessible from the shore at Geoffrey Bay. The old cargo Boat has been here for over 70 years. The structure is fairly broken up providing many corners and holes for marine life to hide in.

Depth: 2 - 8 metres.

EVENTS FULL MOON PARTY Monthly. Base, Magnetic Island Phone: 07 4778 5777 www.stayatbase.com Magnetic Island is the home of Australia’s premier full moon party.

The party raves on all night on the white sandy beach with top international DJ’s pumping out the tunes.

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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ISLAND WALKS HAWKINGS POINT: This is one of the easiest and shortest walks with an exceptional view. The track begins at the end of Picnic Bay and winds its way up to the top of a huge granite boulder.

Allow 30 minutes to complete the walk.

NELLY BAY TO ARCADIA: Continuing along Mandalay Avenue this track passes through a cool patch of Rainforest, then alongside Gustav Creek up a steady climb to the saddle of the ridge, with Nelly Bay to one side and Horseshoe Bay the other. Many birds and other wildlife can be seen and at the right time of the year, bush orchids. Allow two hours to complete the walk.

ARCADIA TO HORSESHOE BAY: This track begins a short distance from Arcadia, leading off from the main road on the right hand side. Firstly following the road and later crossing it, the track climbs over the hills and meets the main road again where the walk to the Forts begin. If you continue along the track you will meet the road again as it descends into Horseshoe Bay. Allow one hour to complete the walk.

FERRY TIMETABLE MONDAY TO FRIDAY

5.20 am** 7.10 am 9.00 am 10.45 am 12.35 pm 2.40 pm 4.25 pm 6.05 pm

DEPART MAGNETIC ISLAND 6.15 am** 8.05 am 9.55 am 11.40 am 1.25 pm 3.30 pm 5.15 pm 6.55 pm

SATURDAY & SUNDAY

DEPART TOWNSVILLE

7.10 am 9.00 am 10.45 am 12.35 pm 2.40 pm 4.25 pm 6.05 pm*

8.05 am 9.55 am 11.40 am 1.25 pm 3.30 pm 5.15 pm 6.55 pm*

**Not operating Public Holidays. *Not operating on Saturdays outside the Queensland School Holidays.

VEHICLE BOOKINGS ARE ESSENTIAL Loading time is 20 minutes prior to departure.

Cruising Magnetic 4796 9300 54

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THE FORTS WALK: Located at the turn-off to Radical Bay on the Horseshoe Bay Road, this track follows a ridge behind the bays and arrives at the ruins of the Forts complex operated during World War II. Lookouts afford excellent views to the Palm Island Group in the north and Bowling Green Bay National Park in the south. This walk is also famous for spotting Koalas in their natural environment. Allow one and a half hours to complete the walk.

HORSESHOE BAY TO RADICAL BAY VIA BALDING BAY: The track begins at the eastern end of Horseshoe Bay beach and climbs through a steep gully of closed forest to an open eucalypt ridge. The track leads down to secluded Balding and Radical Bay. Both bays offer excellent swimming opportunities. Allow forty five minutes to complete the walk.

PICNIC BAY TO WEST POINT: Following the road past The Golf course, pass alongside tidal wetlands, mangroves and salt-water swamps, over four fresh-water creeks, through savannah grasslands and paperback trees. Allow two and a half hours to complete the walk.

SAFETY TIPS Take your time, stop often for rest breaks. On hot days, you can suffer heat exhaustion. Avoid the heat of the midday sun. Stay on track and take care on uneven or loose surfaces. Take care around cliffs, steep slopes and rock faces along the tracks and at lookouts. Always carry plenty of drinking water.

Wear sunscreen and a hat. Wear sturdy footwear, not thongs. Take care for the environment as most of the island is National Park.

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

18/10/2011 11:19:19 AM

*Snorkel hire subject to weather conditions. Prices from 1/01/10 to 31/03/11 and subject to change.

PHONE 1800 636 778 or 07 4772 5800 Flinders Square, Townsville

Full Moon Party Tickets Available Here!

STANDBY Dive Trips & Sailing Adventures

www.tropicaltravel.com.au www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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NORTH QUEENSLAND Cooktown

44

Palm Cove CAIRNS

Mareeba

Gordonvale

Chillagoe

Atherton 25

1

63

Innisfail

AT BARR I E R R GRE

Cape Tribulation Port Douglas

Tully

Dunk Island Mission Beach

Cardwell

Hinchinbrook Island

EE

Ingham

F

Magnetic Island 63

TOWNSVILLE Ayr A6

A1

Bowen Charters Towers

Whitsunday Islands Airlie Beach Collinsville

Proserpine

MACKAY Glenden To BRISBANE

100km 56

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www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

18/10/2011 3:12:42 PM

OUTBACK QUEENSLAND Nothing beats Queensland’s Outback. Rich with the tales and trappings of yesteryear, awe-inspiring landscapes and fair dinkum friendly locals, it’s a ‘big country’ waiting to be explored. On or off the beaten track, all roads lead to unexpected adventures and unforgettable experiences.

A vast, rugged and unspoilt destination, Queensland’s Outback is synonymous with a real Australian experience that embraces the nation’s cultural heritage and pioneering spirit. Whether it’s scaling a rocky outcrop, scouring wetlands for a glimpse of rare birdlife, tackling the sand dunes of an infamous desert or riding the current of a rushing stream, the choices are only limited by how long you stay.

Whatever the experience, Queensland’s Outback will not disappoint you. So isn’t it time you discovered Queensland’s backyard?

GETTING AROUND There are so many ways to get around the Outback - regardless of whether you want to take the wheel, or sit back and enjoy the ride.

Most of Queensland’s Outback is accessible by sedan, and towns are usually no more than two hours apart. For the off-road enthusiast, there are plenty of opportunities to go bush and explore secret attractions, taking forgotten roads meandering through spectacular Outback scenery.

MOUNT ISA Here you will discover where ancient beasts once roamed and experience spectacular Outback sunsets. Described as the Oasis of the Outback - a gleaming mirage on the horizon for travellers from all directions - Mount Isa nestles among the ochre-red Selwyn Ranges, on the banks of the Leichhardt River.

A must see while in Mount Isa is the Outback at Isa complex, incorporating the award winning Riversleigh Fossil Centre, Hard Times Mine and Visitor Information Centre.

Lake Moondarra is an artificial lake on the Leichhardt River, 16 km downstream from the town of Mount Isa. The lake is used for various recreational activities such as canoeing, sailing, boating, skiing, swimming, and fishing. Other facilities include picnic areas with tables, toilets, shelters, BBQs & drinking water. No dogs or camping are allowed at the lake, however the pet friendly AAOK Moondarra Accommodation Village is the closest accommodation to Lake Moondarra.

The Lake Moondarra Fishing Classic is hosted every year on the last full weekend in October.

Coach services operate to all major Outback centres along the Overlander’s Way from Townsville to Mount Isa, and on the Matilda Highway from Charleville to Karumba.

If the romance of train travel lures you, Queensland Rail offers a variety of journeys. And finally, for those short on time, regular flights operated by QantasLink, Qantas and MacAir Airlines service many regional centres.

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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CAIRNS FOR FREE! CAIRNS ESPLANADE LAGOON A dip in the man-made lagoon overlooking the ocean is free, and the pool is bigger and better than anything you can get at a fancy resort.

GO CLIMBING Get some exercise and climb Walsh’s Pyramid at Gordonvale, south of Cairns. OK it’s a bit more than just exercise. You’ll need to be hike-fit and have three hours (for the fittest) to scale its 922m and return to base. It’s worth the effort for the spectacular views at the summit. Just make sure you don’t go when it’s wet or you’ll be slipping around big-time.

ARTY FARTY Fancy a bit of culture? Tanks Arts Centre has ongoing free visual arts exhibitions and Kick Arts offers an ongoing range of free exhibitions at Cairns Centre of Contemporary Arts.

BEACHES Trinity Beach is a small beach with a swimming enclosure during stinger season, a number of food shops for snacks, and a beach rental outfit that will rent you anything from a beach umbrella to a windsurfer.

Palm Cove - A little further out, with fewer snack shops.

There is a dock to walk on, and a long, long beach.

Ellis Beach - This must be one of the prettiest beaches in Australia. About 30 minutes North of town, with one small café, and miles of nearly deserted beach, it is by far our favorite.

Remember to follow the rules in stinger season. Bus service is available from downtown Cairns.

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EVENTS CAIRNS NIGHT MARKETS 5pm - 11pm. The Esplanade. www.nightmarkets.com.au RUSTY’S MARKETS Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays www.rustysmarkets.com.au CAIRNS ESPLANADE MARKETS Saturdays 8am - 5pm. The Esplanade www.cairnsesplanade.com.au TANKS SUNDAY MARKETS Last Sunday each month. 9am - 2pm.

Tanks Arts Centre www.tanksartscentre.com

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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KURANDA About a half hour drive west of Cairns city is the Atherton Tableland and at the top of the Kuranda Range on the Kennedy Highway is Kuranda.

Known as the village in the rainforest, Kuranda has a wealth of nature-based attractions, art, culture and shopping to enjoy.

GETTING TO KURANDA To the north of Cairns is the Kennedy Highway that runs up the Kuranda Range and begins in the suburb of Smithfield about 14km north of Cairns city. Commonly known as the ‘Kuranda Range’, the road is about 12km long and rises to a level of about 430m about sea level. It’s mainly two lanes with a number of overtaking bays and lookouts on the way up.

Whether you choose a trip back through time on an historic train or the modern technology of a cable car gliding through the treetops, getting to Kuranda is an exciting experience.

Kuranda Scenic Railway is the original rail journey to the village. The historic Kuranda train travels over bridges and through tunnels hand-made

by North Queensland’s pioneers more than 100 years ago. Traversing the World Heritage listed rainforest of the Barron Gorge National Park; it is one of the world’s great railway journeys.

Skyrail Rainforest Cableway takes you on a 7.5km trip over the top of the World Heritage listed tropical rainforest. Gliding just metres above the rainforest canopy in comfortable six-person gondola cabins, the Skyrail journey immerses you in an intimate rainforest experience where you’ll see, hear, smell and become part of the rainforest environment.

If you drive the winding 25km Kuranda Range road, don’t forget to stop at the lookout for magnificent views across Cairns to Green Island and drive through the village to the spectacular Barron Falls lookout.

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www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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DAINTREE : CAPE TRIBULATION The Daintree River ferry is the gateway to the solitary place on the planet where two World Heritage areas unite. The Daintree Rainforest and Great Barrier Reef - majestic and unsurpassed in biological significance.

BEACHES A fully-fledged Daintree Rainforest experience just wouldn’t be the same without an indulgent immersion along any of the magnificent beaches that mark the meeting place between the ancient Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef’s Coral Sea. Expansive, pristine and for the most part exclusive to the visitor, the beaches of the Daintree capture the very essence of paradise.

• Cape Kimberley is the beach closest to the Daintree River and offers a great beach walk to the mouth of the Daintree River.

• Cow Bay Beach is the ideal place for those looking for a ‘deserted beach’ experience.

• Thornton Beach is a great place to walk and experience ‘where the rainforest meets the reef’.

• Noah Beach is accessed via the only National Park Camping Ground and extends from the impassible rocky headlands of Noah Range in the north to the mouth of Noah Creek, also prime crocodile habitat.

• Coconut Beach can be seen from the main road, just before you arrive at Cape Tribulation.

• Myall Beach is located on the southerly side of the Cape Tribulation headland. It is a popular swimming spot, when jellyfish are not considered to be a danger (between May and August).

• Emmagen Beach is located about 5 kilometres north of Cape Tribulation. A Giant Strangler Fig about 800 metres south of Emmagen Creek marks the start of a rough track that leads through to the beach. Do not swim here as a crocodiles frequent the area. It is possible to walk back along the coast to Cape Tribulation Beach, if it is low tide.

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• South Cowie Beach, for travellers with 4WD capabilities, is a great palce to explore.

DAINTREE DISCOVERY CENTRE Cnr Cape Tribulation Rd & Tulip Oak Rd, Cow Bay. Phone: (07) 4098 9171 A world class ecotourism facility nestled in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest. Located 10kms north of the Daintree River Ferry, the multiaward winning Centre allows visitors to enjoy the rainforest at every level — from the forest floor to the upper-most reaches of the canopy.

The Centre boasts a 23m high Canopy Tower, the spectacular Aerial Walkway, Rainforest Boardwalks, a large indoor interpretive display area, cafe and souvenir shop.

CAPE TRIBULATION Cape Tribulation is in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest, home to some of the oldest rainforest on the planet, and this Word Heritage listed rainforest is adjacent to the Great Barrier Reef.

The Daintree is the only destination in the world where two World Heritage areas meet.

There are many things to do in the Cape Tribulation area. Plan to spend at least 3-4 days. Some of the tours and activities at Cape Tribulation include: • An ocean or reef adventure, such as snorkelling the Great Barrier Reef, or paddling the coastline in a sea kayak • Exploring the Daintree Rainforest by guided walks, jungle surfing, by 4WD, and on horseback • Cruising the rivers, looking for wildlife, spotting crocodiles, and birdwatching • Tasting exotic tropical fruit • Walking in Daintree National Park • Chilling out on the deserted beaches • Relaxing and enjoying the beautiful rainforest and the great climate!

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

18/10/2011 11:26:56 AM

SEE THE JUNGLE FLYING There’s a new species in the world’s oldest rainforest… the JUNGLE SURFER. Set in the world-renowned Daintree Rainforest at Cape Tribulation, around 2½ hours north of Cairns, the multi award-winning Jungle Surfing Canopy Tours take you on a unique rainforest tour where your feet don’t touch the ground.

FLY THROUGH THE TREES Seated comfortably in full body harnesses, Jungle Surfers fly through the trees on flying fox ziplines, stopping at five eco-friendly tree platforms to take in spectacular bird’s eye views over the treetops, down to cascading streams and out to the Great Barrier Reef.

AMAZING PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES The longest span is over 75 metres and the platforms range from 2.5m to 19.5m in height, offering an ‘upclose and personal’ experience at all levels of the rainforest canopy, and incredible photo opportunities.

LEARN WHILE YOU SURF The tour’s a mixture of exhilaration and education, and the abseiling and scientist guides share their wit and wisdom and an insight into the world’s oldest rainforest and life in Australia’s largest sustainable energy community throughout the tour.

FLY HANDS-FREE & CARE-FREE The team also use a unique system to control your flight along the ziplines, making this the only flying fox in the world where you can fly hands-free and carefree, without any previous experience. You are safely attached to the structures at all times, so you can relax and enjoy the ride!

ENVIRO-FRIENDLY CONSTRUCTION The whole tour leaves a minimal environmental footprint, with platforms attached to trees by a unique friction system and not a single nail or bolt penetrating the tree trunks.

DARE TO DANGLE UPSIDEDOWN Jungle Surfing will show you their vibrant emerald world, teach you a few of its secrets, make you laugh and maybe even make you scream a little! And the flight choice is yours – slow, fast or even upsidedown, if you dare!

TOUR DEPARTURES & DURATION One of Queensland’s ‘must do’ experiences, Jungle Surfing lasts 2 hours, with around 1¼ hours spent up in the rainforest canopy. There are eight tours daily, with courtesy transfers from all accommodation within Cape Tribulation. Tours cost $90 per person and run in all weathers.

Don’t miss out – get high in the Daintree!

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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DARWIN FOR FREE! EAST POINT RESERVE The main attraction at this reserve is the artificial lake, Lake Alexandra. You can swim, windsurf or just splash around without the threat of jellyfish or crocodiles.

The evenings here are just magical, with wallabies apprearing around sunset to graze. The park also has a great boardwalk which winds through mangrove and coastal monsoon forests.

FANNIE BAY GAOL MUSEUM This is Darwin’s former jail and has been turned into a museum. Star exhibits include cells and gallows.

MUSEUM & ART GALLERY OF THE NORTHERN TERRITORY The highlights at this combined museum and art gallery include a remarkable collection of Aboriginal art and artefacts, such as carvings and bark paintings from Arnhem Land, Bathurst Island and Melville Island.

STATE SQUARE State Square is where you’ll find all the government buildings, conveniently located right near each other.

Some of these buildings, like Parliament House, hold free guided tours each weekend. The Supreme Court, with its amazing mosaic foyer, is definately worth a visit.

DARWIN CITY RAINFOREST The Darwin City rainforest in Doctors Gully is an unexpected bonus to anyone visiting the fish feeding or walking down from the Esplanade. The area has a colourful history, site of the first freshwater well in the new settlement, but today is a quiet boardwalk through dense rainforest.

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EVENTS PARAP MARKETS Saturdays 8am - 2pm Parap Village Shopping Centre, Parap 5mins from CBD DECKCHAIR CINEMA Nightly April - November www.deckchaircinema.com

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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ULURU WALKS The Uluru climb is the traditional route taken by ancestral Mala men upon their arrival to Uluru.

Anangu do not climb Uluru because of its great spiritual significance. Anangu have not closed the climb. They prefer that you - out of education and understanding - choose to respect their law and culture by not climbing. Remember that you are a guest on Anangu land. Anangu traditionally have a duty to safeguard visitors to their land. They feel great sadness when a person dies or is hurt.

• Please visit the Cultural Centre to learn more about the significance of Uluru in Anangu law and culture before you decide whether to climb.

• Explore the other walks available around the Park.

• Follow safety information when you are visiting the Park.

BASE OF ULURU Moderate. 9.8km. 3-4 hours This walk reveals the natural beauty and rich culture of Uluru. You will be following the footsteps of the ancestral beings that shaped the landscape, and by choosing to walk around Uluru instead of climbing, you will be respecting Tjukurpa and Anangu wishes. Starting at the cultural centre, proceed down the Liru Track. Continue clockwise around the base of Uluru, returning to the cultural centre via the Liru Track. If you choose instead to start the base walk at either the Mala or Kuniya car parks, please visit the cultural centre first for important safety advice, cultural knowledge and general information.

LIRU WALK Easy. 4km. 1.5 hours This walk will take you between the cultural centre FREE GUIDED WALKS Free Ranger guided walks run daily from the Base of Uluru. Guided along a shaded track, the Rangers tell the story of the Mala (rufous hare wallaby) Tjukurpa, and describe the history and traditions associated with Uluru, including traditional and contemporary Anangu life and culture, rock art, and the management of the Park.

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and the base of Uluru. The track winds through stands of wanari (mulga) and after rain, often displays colourful flowers. This walk is wheelchair accessible.

MALA WALK AND KANTJU GORGE NORTH-WEST SIDE OF ULURU Easy. 2km. 1 hour.

This track begins at the Mala Walk car-park and ends at the inspiring Kantju Gorge. Purchase the ‘An Insight into Uluru’ booklet or follow the signs to learn about Anangu perceptions of Uluru. You will learn about Mala Tjukurpa and see where dramatic events took place during creation times.

There are many fine examples of Anangu rock art along the way. From the waterhole you can continue on the Base Walk or stroll back to the car-park. This walk is wheelchair accessible.

KUNIYA WALK AND MUTITJULU WATERHOLE SOUTHERN SIDE OF ULURU Easy. 1km. 45 minutes.

From the Kuniya car park, visitors can walk the short track to this special waterhole, home of Wanampi, an ancestral watersnake. Following the signs or using the ‘An Insight into Uluru’ booklet, learn more about the Tjukurpa of Kuniya in this area. A rock shelter, used in the past by Aboriginal people still living today, contains rock art. This walk is wheelchair accessible.

DUNE WALK - BUS SUNSET CAR PARK Easy. 1km. 30 minutes.

Takes you along a sand dune with views of both Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Look for animal tracks, compare sand dune vegetation with the woodland stretching towards Kata Tjuta.

The walk takes approximately 1.5 hours and is wheelchair accessible.

WALK SCHEDULE Departs 8am from October - April Departs 10am from May - September

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

18/10/2011 11:41:48 AM

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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PERTH

FOR FREE! KINGS PARK Located just a few minutes from the city, this natural bushland is at its most impressive in spring when the wildflowers bloom. A picnic reserve, a war memorial, a floral clock and many beautiful nature walks are just some of the attractions on offer PERTH’S BEACHES Perth has magnificent beaches. Some of the top picks include Cottesloe Civic Centre, which boasts beautiful gardens; Scarborough, which has markets on the weekend; and Swanbourne, which is famous for being a nudist beach.

FREE TRANSIT ZONE This is a district in the centre of the city where all bus and train travel is free. Jumping on a bus or a train is a cheap and environmentally friendly way to see the city. For timetable information on this FREE service go to www.transperth.wa.gov.au

EVENTS PRINCELY TREASURES FILM FESTIVAL Until 5 December. Art Gallery of WA www.artfriends.com.au INDIAN OCEAN FESTIVAL 11 - 13 November. Jurien Bay BAZAAR11 2 - 4 December. Fremantle www.fac.org.au

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www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

18/10/2011 11:42:20 AM

B A C K PA C K E R S

P E R T H

IN WORK H T PER

FAST BREAK D

AN ET INTERN

• Friendly helpful staff • Great location • Backyard & BBQ Areas • Huge Car Park • Foxtel & Table Tennis • 2 Kitchens • Breakfast • Internet • Help with work • DVD & TV Room • Linen & Dishes/Crockery • Nightclub passes • Book Exchange

PH: (08) 9227 1818 24 Hour 0417 927 529 133 Summers Street. Perth

rainbowlodge_perth@hotmail.com • www. rainbowlodge.com.au

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SWAN VALLEY When it comes to indulging your passion for food and wine, few places do it better than the Swan Valley – Perth’s Valley of Taste.

The Swan Valley is located only 25 minutes east of Perth City and is Western Australia’s oldest wine growing region. Here you’ll find wine-tasting venues nestled among rolling fields of vineyards, cafes perched alongside pristine natural bush and an excellent selection of top-quality restaurants.

There are wine trails, olive groves, a chocolate factory, fresh produce stalls, wildlife and family attractions, markets – the list goes on and on.

And while you’re savouring the taste of a quality red wine, sampling a platter of cheese or indulging in heavenly chocolate, be sure to leave time to take advantage of the vibrant arts scene which adds further to the region’s feeling of culture.

Galleries and art and craft shops range from wellknown and sprawling displays, to out of the way treasures tucked away in some hidden corner or courtyard. Guildford is particularly appealing for its heritage buildings, antique stores and arts scene.

You may choose to experience it all at the popular Spring in the Valley festival that takes place each year in October.

While in the Swan Valley be sure to set out on the 32 kilometre Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail. This trip to culinary heaven winds past 80 wineries, restaurants and breweries and more than 50 fresh produce stalls as well as art galleries, olive groves and gorgeous heritage buildings. Be sure to call into the Swan Valley Visitor Centre in Guildford for information about the area and wine and food trail maps.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN THE SWAN VALLEY • Take time to explore the 32 kilometre Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail • Visit up to 40 cellar doors including Houghton and Sandalford • Enjoy the great outdoors on the Swan Valley Cycle Trails • Take in some history of WA’s first settlement on the Guildford Heritage Walk Trails • Discover the valley on a Swan Valley River Cruise or on a horse drawn wagon trail tour • Visit the Guildford Courthouse Interpretive displays • Call into the boutique breweries and distilleries • Go shopping for antiques in historic Guildford • Sample local produce from grapes to chocolates, olive oil to nougat • Visit the many art & craft galleries and artists studios For more information: www.swanvalley.com.au

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Swan Valley Food & Wine Trail Map: www.swanvalley.com.au ww w.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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ADELAIDE FOR FREE! CITY LOOP & BEE-LINE BUSES Both these bus services are free of charge and run frequently through the city. The City Look bus traces a circular path through the city and goes in both directions every 15 to 20 minutes. The Bee-line route is a bit shorter, running along King William Street and North Terrace every 5 to 12 minutes.

MOUNT LOFTY SUMMIT This is one of the most spectacular lookouts in Adelaide, and provides sweeping views of the plains below. Go at night for an even more incredible panorama.

ST KILDA MANGROVE TRAIL St Kilda is located north of Adelaide and features and incredibly extensive mangrove ecosystem. There is a boardwalk trail that runs for 1.7km through this fragile environment. This is a must-see for those with an interest in ecology and nature.

HOLY TRINITY CHURCH Adelaide is sometimes referred to as the City of Churches, so a trip to this beautiful city wouldn’t be complete without seeing one of them! Holy Trinity Church, located on North Terrace, is also known as the Pioneer Church of South Australia and boasts a clock made by the clockmaker to King Edward IV. ADELAIDE BOTANIC GARDEN This is one of the most popular open areas in Adelaide city. It covers 16 hectares and encompasses the Bicentennial Conservatory as well as the Victorian Palm House. It’s a great place to spend a laid-back day, with beautifully maintained gardens, shady trees and serene lakes.

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EVENTS FEAST FESTIVAL 12 - 27 November www.adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au LILKA FEST 25 - 27 November. Limestone Coast www.lilkafest.com CHRISTMAS WONDERLAND 26 November - 31 December. Loxton www.loxtonlights.com

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MELBOURNE FOR FREE! CITY CIRCLE TRAM The City Circle Tram is FREE. You’ll recognise it by its distinctive burgundy and cream colouring. It will take you past some of the most interesting attractions that Melbourne has to offer and bring you right back to where you started. For timetable information on this FREE service go to www.metlinkmelbourne.com.au FITZROY GARDENS One of the most interesting things in the Fitzroy Gardens is Captain Cook’s cottage. After he discovered Australia, the cottage in which his parents lived was brought to Australia (stone by stone) from Yorkshire and painstakingly reconstructed. The garden also has a wonderful Tudor village and landscaped parklands.

FEDERATION SQUARE Take a walk around this interestingly designed structure and make up your own mind as to whether it’s a marvel or an eyesore (a point hotly disputed by many Melbournians).

WILLIAMSTOWN Williamstown is a nice break from the hustle and bustle of Melbourne’s city centre. A former maritime village, it now boasts a heritage walk that will take you past beautiful historic buildings and old-style pubs.

YARRA RIVER Melbourne’s iconic river is yours for the exploring.

Flinders Walk starts at Flinders Street Station and crosses the footbridge and is a great place to start a walk up and down the river banks. A Great place to stop is the Alexandra Gardens, which are located just behind Princes Bridge.

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EVENTS PHILLIP ISLAND JAZZ FESTIVAL 18 - 20 November www.phillipislandjazzfest.org.au FAIR @ SQUARE 2 - 4 December. Federation Square www.moralfairground.com.au

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GREAT OCEAN RD Travel one of the world’s most scenic roads through the Great Ocean Road region which covers southwest Victoria and home to the famous 12 Apostles.

Start your journey throughout the region from Melbourne in Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula and discover beautiful beaches, great eateries, a fascinating heritage and an enormous range of recreational opportunities from fishing and golfing to diving and surfing.

Take in the colourful and lively ambience of bayside Geelong, Victoria’s second largest city, or visit quaint Queenscliff and discover the town’s rich maritime history, excellent restaurants and heritage hotels.

Drive along the coast to seaside resort towns such as Torquay, Lorne and Apollo Bay which offer stunning beaches and water sports as well as some of Australia’s best rainforest scenery in the nearby Otway Ranges.

Stop off at one of the most visited stretches of the road at the 12 Apostles. See the rugged splendour of these huge rock stacks that rise majestically from the Southern Ocean.

Discover the region’s rich maritime past at historic towns such as Warrnambool, Port Fairy and Portland. Enjoy seafaring village life, with their fishing wharves, beautifully preserved colonial buildings and maritime museums recounting the stories of ships that have foundered off the rugged shipwreck coast.

GREAT OCEAN ROAD

SKENES CREEK

BACKPACKERS CAMP GROUND

$8 perperson

with this ad • Campsites • Boogie Boards • Onsite Vans (Sleep up to 8) • Camp Fires • Surfboard and Wetsuit Hire • FREE Wifi

Facilities: Hot Showers, BBQ Camp Kitchen, Pool Table/TV Room, Kiosk Activites: Surf Lessons, Sea Kayaking, Mountain Biking, Argo Buggies and more

VISIT TWELVE APOSTLES! SKENES CREEK BEACHFRONT PARK

2 Great Ocean Road, Skenes Creek, Apollo Bay 3232

PH 03 5237 6132 • FAX 03 5237 6124

info@skenescreek.com • www.skenescreek.com

APOLLO BAY Base yourself in Apollo Bay at the foothills of the Otways to explore the Great Ocean Road region, 12 Apostles or stopover along the Great Ocean Walk.

SEASIDE VILLAGE LIFE Swim in the clear water, sea kayak with local seals, indulge in some deep-sea fishing, learn to surf, or horse ride along the beach at sunset. Fishing is an important local industry and seafood is always on the menu at the local cafés and restaurants. For great views try Chris’s at Beacon Point high in the hills overlooking the sea. Shop for art and curios in the many gift shops, galleries and tea houses and peruse the regular Saturday foreshore market for local crafts and produce.

NATURAL BEAUTY Head into the Otways to find mainland Australia’s oldest lighthouse. Explore nearby forest and waterfall walks or enjoy an exhilarating ride through the ranges on a mountain bike. Take a treetop walk along the Otway Fly and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the spectacular Otway Ranges.

Spot native wildlife such as glow worms at Melba Gully, the elusive platypus at Lake Elizabeth or koalas at nearby Kennet River. www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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Cherryhill Orchards

Yarra Valley MELBOURNE VIC Summertime, and the cherries are ripe for the picking.

If you’ve never picked cherries, why not give it a try this season?

Indulge your senses this summer with delicious handpicked cherries at Cherryhill, one of Australia’s most picturesque and renowned cherry orchards.

Open to the public throughout December and January, Cherryhill gives you the once-a-year chance to pick your own sweet, ripe cherries from the trees in a picture-perfect environment.

Make a planned visit or a spur-of-the-moment day trip - it’s only an hour from Melbourne and open seven days a week during the summer season.

There’s plenty of parking, picnic tables and Cherryhill ‘Cherry Buses’ to whisk you off to the spots where you’ll find super big, super delicious export quality cherries.

Once you’ve picked your cherries, set up a picnic and enjoy the fruits of your (fun!) labours while enjoying the fresh country air and unique breathtaking views over the Yarra Valley.

It’s a delightful outdoor experience, and one that won’t break the bank! For just $30 (or $24 pre-paid online) for the whole family, plus a per-kilogram charge, your hand-picked cherries will cost around half of what you’d pay in the shops.

Pick your own cherries Where: Cherryhill Orchards 474 Queens Rd, Wandin West When: November 2011 - January 2012 9am - 5pm 7 days a week Buses and large groups welcome by appointment.

Cost: Adults $10 (Orchard gate) Kids Under 12 $5 Families $30 20% Discount (Online)

If you can’t make it to Cherryhill, don’t despair!

Go online or call 1300CHERRY (1300 243 779) to order fresh, ripe, premium handpicked cherries to be delivered to you overnight.

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1300 CHERRY (1300 243 779) www.cherryhill.com.au

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HOBART FOR FREE! BATTERY POINT Take a walk around the historic maritime village of Battery Point. There are tiny fishermen’s cottages, larger homes and quaint pubs.

MOUNT WELLINGTON Drive to the top of Mount Wellington for great views of Hobart and the Derwent Valley. It can be windy and cold at the top even when it is warm and sunny in Hobart.

SALAMANCA PLACE Visit Salamanca Place, where historic warehouses have been given a new life as art and craft galleries.

Don`t miss the Salamanca Market, held each Saturday in Salamanca Place. On sale there are arts and crafts, together with food stalls and street theatre.

QUEENS DOMAIN Take a relaxing walk through Queens Domain, a bushland reserve adjoining the city. The Royal Tasmanian Botanic Gardens sits near Pavilion Point, surrounded by a convict-built wall.

CITY WALK Take a walk along Davey and Macquarie Streets in the city, where you will see many historic buildings, including the Town Hall, 40 Macquarie Street (Hobart’s oldest building), the Commissariat Store and the Bond Store.

CONSTITUTION DOCK Walk along Constitution Dock, watching the activity of the port. This is the arrival point for the annual Sydney to Hobart yacht race.

EVENTS BEERFEST 18 & 19 November. Princes Wharf www.tasmanianbeerfest.com.au TASTE FESTIVAL 28 December - 3 January www.hobartsummerfestival.com.au

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WORK IN AUSTRALIA

USEFUL CONTACTS NATIONAL HARVEST TELEPHONE INFORMATION SERVICE www.harvesttrail.gov.au Phone 1800 062 332 for information on harvest labour wages, working conditions or accommodation.You can download a Harvest Guide here: www.jobsearch.gov.au/HarvestTrail/ Documents/NationalHarvestGuide.pdf

IMPORTANT INFO WHAT DO I NEED TO START WORK? • A valid Australian work visa • Bank account • Tax File Number (TFN) • TFN Declaration You must complete a TFN declaration for each employer for whom you work. Your employer calculates the tax rate you pay with information you provide on this form. If you do not give your TFN, you will pay the maximum rate of tax. Your employer will give you a TFN declaration to complete.

• Occupational health, safety and welfare Employers have a duty to protect your health and safety in the work place. When you start a new job, your employer must give you instruction, training and supervision on health and safety matters. Depending on the job you have, your employer will supply you with safety clothing and equipment.

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AUSTRALIAN WORKPLACE www.workplace.gov.au Contact Australian WorkPlace for all information on finding work, careers and training, and other labour market information.

DEPARTMENT OF IMMIGRATION AND CITIZENSHIP www.immi.gov.au Contact DIAC for all information on visiting and working in Australia including Visas and associated details.

AUSTRALIAN TAXATION OFFICE www.ato.gov.au Contact the Australian Taxation Office for all information on the Australian taxation system including Tax File Numbers and associated details.

TRAVELLERS AT WORK www.taw.com.au Travellers at Work is an Australian based Job Search Club for Working Holiday Visa travellers.

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HARVEST GUIDE DARWIN Katherine Kununurra

Broome

Mareeba Dimbulah Atherton/Ravenshoe

NT

Cairns Innisfail Tully

Townsville

Giru

Ayr

Ti Tree

Bowen

Alice Springs

WA

Carnavon

Yeppoon

QLD

Emerald

Rockhampton

Gin Gin Bundaberg Childers Gayndah Mundubbera Murgon Caboolture Gatton/Laidley

St George

SA

BRISBANE Dirranbandi Stanthorpe

NSW

Mungindi Moree

Berri Barmera Monash Loxton Renmark Cadell Paringa Waikerie Angaston / Lyndoch / Nooriootpa Wentworth Tanunda Forbes Griffith / Leeton Gol Gol Clare Mildura Young Euston Nangolic Hay Jugiong Robinvale McLaren Vale Tooleybuck Tamut Beverford Longhorne Creek

PERTH

Port Augusta

Margaret River Frankland Manjimup Mt Barker Albany Denmark

Lismore

Narrabri / Wee Waa Warren Trangie Narromine / Dubbo Hunter Valley Hillston Orange

ADELAIDE

Coonawarra Penola

Batlow Tumbarumba Wangaratta Myrtleford Beechworth Stanley Koo Wee Rup

Swan Hill Lake Boga

VIC

Shepparton Cobram Tatura Yarra Valley

MELBOURNE

Boonah Byron Bay Ballina Coffs Harbour

Newcastle

SYDNEY CANBERRA

Bairnsdale Maffra

Mornington Peninsula

Devonport Smithton Launceston / Scottsdale Ulverstone Deloraine

TAS

New Norfolk Huonville

Richmond

HOBART

TASMANIA HARVEST PERIOD January - May, November - December

CROP

TOWNS

REFERENCE

Apples

Launceston, Ulverstone, Burnie, Devonport, Huonville, Richmond

January - April, June, November - December

Cherries

Burnie, Devonport, Huonville, New Norfolk, Richmond

January - June, October - December

Grape Picking

Launceston, Huonville, New Norfolk, Richmond

January - May, October - December

Stone Fruits

Devonport, Huonville, Richmond

All year round

Tomatoes

Ulverstone

All year round

Vegetables

Launceston, Ulverstone, Burnie, Devonport, Richmond, Deloraine, Smithton

May - October

Grape Pruning

Launceston, Huonville, New Norfolk, Richmond

January - May, October - December

Berries

Devonport, Huonville

February - March

Hop Picking

Ulverstone, New Norfolk

October

Hop Stringing

Ulverstone, New Norfolk, Scottsdale

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QUEENSLAND

Harvest Labour Providers located in Stanthorpe, Mundubbera, Gyndah, Mareeba, Atherton, Ravenshoe, Kuranda

HARVEST PERIOD

n

Bay

our

CROP

TOWNS

REFERENCE

January - May, November - December

Apples

Stanthorpe

January - May, August - December

Asparagus

Mundubbera

January, November - December

Cotton

Dirranbandi, Goondiwindi, St George, Emerald

January - June, October - December

Grape Picking

Gayndah, Mundubbera, Stanthorpe, St George, Emerald, Cunnamulla

January - February, September - October, November - December

Mangoes

Bowen, Mundubbera, Stanthorpe, Mareeba, Bundaberg, Childers, Dimbulah, Ayr, Yeppoon, Gin Gin, Giru

January - May, October - December

Stone Fruits

Bowen, Murgon, Stanthorpe

January, November - December

Onion

St George, Gatton, Boonah (the Scenic Rim), Laidley (Lockyer Valley)

All year round

Citrus

Gayndah, Mundubbera, Mareeba, Atherton, Emerald, Bundaberg, Gin Gin

All year round

Tomatoes

Bowen, Murgon, Stanthorpe, Bundaberg, Childers, Gatton, Ayr, Boonah (the Scenic Rim), Laidley (Lockyer Valley)

All year round

Vegetables

Bowen, Stanthorpe, St George, Atherton, Bundaberg, Childers, Gatton, Ayr, Boonah (the Scenic Rim), Laidley (Lockyer Valley), Gin Gin, Giru

May - Octtober

Grape Picking

Gayndah, Mundubbera, Stanthorpe, Emerald

January - June, December

Tropical Fruits

Mareeba, Atherton, Dimbulah, Sunshine Coast Stanthorpe

February - March

Pears

January - May, October - December

Berries

Caboolture, Sunshine Coast

All year round

Wool

Stanthorpe, St George

March - November

Avocados

Mareeba, Atherton, Bundaberg, Childers, Dimbulah, Gin Gin

All year round

Bananas

Mareeba, Atherton, Innisfail, Tully

January - June, August - December

Melons

Bowen, St George, Emerald, Bundaberg, Gatton, Ayr, Chinchilla, Boonah (the Scenic Rim), Laidley (Lockyer Valley)

January - March, November - December

Lychee

Mareeba, Childers, Dimbulah, Yeppoon

March - November

Sugar Cane

Bowen, Bundaberg, Ayr, Innisfail, Tully, Mackay, Giru

February - November

Pineapple

Yeppon, Caboolture, Sunshine Coast

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Harvest Labour Provider located in Darwin

HARVEST PERIOD

CROP

TOWNS

January - June, October - December

Grape Picking

Ti Tree

January - February, September - October, November - December

Mangoes

Darwin, Katherine

All year round

Citrus

Darwin, Katherine

All year round

Vegetables

Darwin

May - October

Grape Pruning

Ti Tree

January - June, December

Tropical Fruits

Darwin, Katherine

All year round

Bananas

Darwin

All year round

Cut Flowers

Darwin

January - June, August - December

Melons

Darwin, Katherine

REFERENCE

Last updated: October 2010. For a detailed map please see the nearest Information Centre. For more information on Harvest Work please contact National Harvest Information Service 1800 062 332

www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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NEW SOUTH WALES

Harvest Labour Providers located in Wentworth, Young, Moree, Narrabri, Griffith

HARVEST PERIOD January - May, November - December

CROP Apples

TOWNS

REFERENCE

Batlow, Forbes, Tumbarumba, Tumut, Orange, Sydney Basin

January - May, August - December

Asparagus

Wentworth, Gol Gol

January - April, June, November - December

Cherries

Batlow, Hillston, Young, Forbes, Tumbarumba, Orange

January, November - December

Cotton

Warren, Wee Waa, Narromine, Narrabri, Moree, Hillston, Dubbo, Mungindi, Trangie, Bourke

January - June, October - December

Grape Picking

Griffith, Hillston, Leeton, Wentworth, Euston, Gol Gol, Tooleybuc, Young, Forbes, Bourke, Jugiong, Tumbarumba, Orange, Hunter Valley

January - May, October - December

Stone Fruits

Batlow, Griffith, Hillston, Leeton, Tooleybuc, Young, Forbes, Tumbarumba, Tumut, Sydney Basin

January, November - December

Onion

Griffith, Hillston, Hay

All year round

Citrus

Narromine, Griffith, Hillston, Leeton, Wentworth, Gol Gol, Tooleybuc, Bourke, Sydney Basin

All year round

Tomatoes

Griffith, Forbes

All year round

Vegetables

Griffith, Hillston, Leeton, Wentworth, Gol Gol, Tooleybuc, Hay, Sydney Basin

May - October

Grape Pruning

Griffith, Wentworth, Euston, Gol Gol, Tooleybuc, Young, Jugiong, Tumbarumbah, Orange

February - March

Pears

Batlow

January - May, October - December

Berries

Batlow, Young, Tumbarumbah, Byron Bay, Coffs Harbour

All year round

Wool

Wentworth, Dubbo, Forbes, Bourke, Orange, Hay

March - November

Avocados

Ballina, Byron Bay, Lismore, Coffs Harbour, Sydney Basin

January - June, August - December

Melons

Bourke, Hay

April - September

Nuts

Moree, Tumbarumbah, Ballina, Byron Bay, Coffs Harbour

January - March, November - December

Lychee

Ballina, Byron Bay, Lismore, Coffs Harbour

VICTORIA

Harvest Labour Providers located in Cobram, Shepparton, Mildura, Robinvale, Swan Hill

HARVEST PERIOD

CROP

TOWNS

REFERENCE

January - May, November - December

Apples

Cobram, Shepparton, Myrtleford, Beechworth, Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley

January - May, August - December

Asparagus

Mildura, Robinvale, Maffra, Bairnsdale, Koo Wee Rup

January - April, June, November - December

Cherries

Cobram, Shepparton, Beechworth, Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley

January - June, October - December

Grape Picking

Mildura, Swan Hill, Robinvale, Nyah, Echuca, Myrtleford, Beechworth, Yarra Valley

January - May, October - December

Stone Fruits

Cobram, Shepparton, Swan Hill, Nyah, Echuca

January, November - December

Onion

Bairnsdale

All year round

Citrus

Cobram, Mildura, Shepparton, Swan Hill, Nyah

All year round

Tomatoes

Cobram, Shepparton, Echuca, Bairnsdale

All year round

Vegetables

Mildura, Shepparton, Swan Hill, Robinvale, Nyah, Bairnsdale

May - October

Grape Pruning

Mildura, Swan Hill, Robinvale, Nyah, Echuca, Myrtleford, Beechworth

February - March

Pears

Yarra Valley

January - May, October - December

Berries

Mornington Peninsula, Yarra Valley

All year round

Cotton

Mildura, Swan Hill

February - March

Hop Picking

Myrtleford

April - September

Nuts

Myrtleford

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SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Harvest Labour Providers located in Berri, McLaren Vale

HARVEST PERIOD

CROP

TOWNS

REFERENCE

January - May, November - December

Apples

Berri, Loxton, Renmark, Barmera, Penola, Adelaide Hills, Coonawarra

January - April, June, November - December

Cherries

Renmark, Barmera, Penola, Adelaide Hills, Coonawarra

January - June, October - December

Grape Picking

Berri, Loxton, McLaren Vale, Waikerie, Cadell, Renmark, Paringa, Langhorne Creek, Tanunda, Barmera, Penola, Angaston, Clare, Lyndoch, Nuriootpa, Adelaide Hills, Coonawarra

January - May, October - December

Stone Fruits

Berri, Loxton, Waikerie, Cadell, Renmark, Paringa, Barmera

All year round

Citrus

Berri, Loxton, Waikerie, Cadell, Renmark, Paringa, Barmera

All year round

Vegetables

Berri, Loxton, Penola, Coonawarra

May - October

Grape Pruning

Berri, Loxton, McLaren Vale, Waikerie, Cadell, Renmark, Paringa, Langhorne Creek, Tanunda, Barmera, Penola, Angaston, Clare, Lyndoch, Nuriootpa, Adelaide Hills, Coonawarra

February - March

Pears

Berri, Loxton, Renmark, Barmera, Adelaide Hills

All year round

Wool

McLaren Vale

March - November

Avocados

Berri, Loxton, Waikerie, Barmera

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Harvest Labour Provider located in Kununurra

HARVEST PERIOD January - May, November - December

CROP

TOWNS

REFERENCE

Apples

Manjimup, Perth Hills

January - April, June, November - December

Cherries

Mount Barker

January - June, October - December

Grape Picking

Carnavon, Manjimup, Margaret River, Albany, Denmark, Frankland, Mount Barker, Swan Valley

January - February, September - December

Mangoes

Carnavon, Kununurra

January - May, October - December

Stone Fruits

Manjimup, Perth Hills

All year round

Citrus

Kununurra

All year round

Tomatoes

Carnavon

All year round

Vegetables

Carnavon, Manjimup

May - October

Grape Pruning

Carnavon, Manjimup, Margaret River, Albany, Denmark, Frankland, Mount Barker, Swan Valley

February - March

Pears

Manjimup

January - May, October - December

Berries

Albany, Denmark, Mount Barker Mount Barker

All year round

Wool

All year round

Bananas

Carnavon

January - June, August - December

Melons

Carnavon, Kununurra

April - July

Tree Planting

Kununurra

June - September

Corn

Kununurra

May - November

Pumpkin

Kununurra

May - August

Olives

Frankland

For more information NATIONAL HARVEST INFORMATION SERVICE 1800 062 332 Or check out the website for harvest labour providers or to download a copy of the National Harvest Guide www.harvesttrail.gov.au www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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LOCKYER VALLEY COME STAY AT O’MAHONY’S HERITAGE LISTED HOTEL Built in 1887. Has recently been refurbished.

• Comfortable rooms either single or shared • Many lounge rooms to relax in • Air conditioned bar • Large verandahs to sit out on • Austar TV • A few blocks to main CBD • Well equipped kitchen to cook in • FREE usage of washing machines • Very safe and family oriented hotel with friendly courteous staff • Work can be arranged also • Lots to see and do, very old historical scenic town

150 per person per week in single room 130 per person for shared room $ 240 per week per couple $ $

Phone: 07 4661 1146 35 Grafton St, Warwick www.omahonys.com.au

The Lockyer Valley is an area of rich farmlands that lies to the west of Brisbane and east of Toowoomba. The Lockyer Valley is rated among the top ten most fertile farming areas in the world.

The intensively cultivated area grows the most diverse range of commercial fruit and vegetables of any area in Australia and is often referred to as “South East Queensland’s Salad Bowl”.

There are many interesting things to see and do in the Lockyer Valley. From the beautiful Laidley Valley in the south with Mulgowie at its heart, to the historic and pretty township of Laidley.

The main town in the Lockyer Valley, Gatton, has the longest history of the region, and many well maintained old buildings, 5 of which are hotels.

Throughout the Lockyer Valley there are National Parks, Regional Parks, and Forests, to experience and explore, there are several places to fish including Lake Atkinson and Lake Dyer, and there are plenty of opportunities to relax, unwind and refresh, all within a couple of hours drive of Brisbane.

The Lockyer Valley has become a popular and a convenient place to reside while commuting to the larger Centres of Toowoomba, Ipswich and Brisbane.

WORK IN GATTON Situated in the heart of the rich and fertile Lockyer Valley, Gatton was initially a stop over point for the mail and coach service between Brisbane and the Darling Downs. The region was one of the first areas of settlement in Queensland and has traditionally been a producer of fine cattle and a wide range of vegetable crops, tomatoes and melons. Canning of produce in the Gatton area provides an extra level of employment in the region as do the many cattle and horse studs which are situated in the rich valley.

WHEN SHOULD I GO THERE? March to April - Sweet Potatoes March to June - Beans May to September - Snow Peas May to October - Celery, chinese cabbage May to November - Cabbage, cauliflower, lettuce, broccoli May to December - Potatoes, beetroot July to November - Carrots August to December - Onions September to November - Garlic November to December - Beans November to May - Pumpkin, sweet corn, tomatoes, capsicums December to February - Melons, zucchinis

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Travellers...

Looking for a job?

Sales Consultants required!!!

Locations around Sydney Base wage • 20% - 30% commission $$$ Selling cosmetic and hair products No experience required • Immediate start Optional accommodation • Staff functions occasionally

If you are energetic, enthusiastic, outgoing and self driven, come and join our team.

Email resume to atn@dbin.com.au For more details phone Nir 0420 946 829 www.aussiebackpacker.com.au

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WORK IN CRONULLA Travel isn’t cheap, so if you need a little extra cash for your Australian backpacking holiday or the next leg of your world trip, there are plenty of casual jobs available for backpackers around Cronulla with regular local transport available to Sydney CBD. The Cronulla Beach YHA backpacker hostel accommodation in Sydney has a jobs notice board where local employers and agents post vacancies.

WORK FOR THE GUYS The local work is usually in construction (labouring/ trades), retail (shop-work), or hospitality (bar/ waiter work in bars/cafes/restaurants).

Normally for guys its labouring work on smaller building sites, furniture removals, factory hands, landscape gardeners, household labouring and general odd-jobs. The hostel has a constant supply of these employers ringing to find workers.

They usually want you to start the next day and will pick you up and drop you off. Estimated pay is $100-$150 per day. These jobs can be for 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, or can (and have) turned into permanent positions.

Skilled tradesmen should have their qualifications transfered to be recognised in Australia as we do get lots of enquiries for skilled workers. The pay rates are basically double of unskilled.

WORK FOR THE GIRLS Girls (and to a lesser extent guys) obtain Hospitality/Retail jobs in the Cronulla Beach area.

History has shown us that majority of people gaining employment in these areas find it themselves - you can walk Cronulla mall and the surrounding streets/suburbs to pick up a job that way.

DON’T BE PUT OFF BY DOING THIS, the reason is that most employers don’t know who you are from a resume/CV. Presentation, determination, communication skills and the opportunity to give you an ON-THE-SPOT trial creates the success.

We do get these employers call from time to time but not as much as labouring jobs for guys. Most

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employers in these industries want you to stay a minimum 1 month and preferably much longer.

Bar work in New South Wales: you have to complete the RSA course (Responsible Service of Alcohol), which will then enable you to work with alcohol in a licensed venue under NSW law (not transferable from/to other Australian states). This one-day course runs daily in the city/suburbs and the cost is approx $75 each.

It is very important to offer as much as you can to an employer so you are an asset to the business rather than having to be trained from scratch. These courses can be done in Sydney or preferably before you leave home.

In Cronulla and the surrounding area there’s licensed bars, over 70 restaurants and a few clubs. There are also hundreds of retail stores either within walking distance or a short train ride away - so there are plenty of opportunities!

Our YHA is the only backpackers/hostel in Cronulla Beach or the surrounding area so you are not competing with thousands of other travellers to find a job in Bondi, Coogee or Manly.

IT IS A LIFESTYLE we are promoting here, it doesn’t get much better than a swim/surf in the Pacific before or after work, meeting fellow travellers and local Aussies, all being in a ‘resort style’ suburb of Sydney without that downtown hussle and bussle.

If you want to work and save for your next adventure we will help you achieve it - it’s in our best interest that you succeed.

You must have a Working Holiday Visa, a Tax File Number and Bank Account. It’s also good to have a green card (OH&S work safe for building sites) and for hospitality an RSA (Responsible Service of Alcohol) certificate and it is a big advantage to have a Barista certification.

Courtesy: Cronulla Beach YHA (Page 27) 40-42 Kingsway, Cronulla SYDNEY. Phone: 02 9527 7772 www.cronullabeachyha.com

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WORK IN BOWEN Bowen is a coastal town located 1165 kms to the north of Brisbane and 206 kms south of Townsville.

It has many lovely beaches,especially to the north of the town and a large jetty at Port Denison which is useful for the loading of coal, salt and fish for export. Bowen and the surrounding area is well known for its large production of tomatoes, vegetables and mangoes.

Labour, Trade & Construction jobs in Australia In addition to a fun working environment and great pay, Aussie tradies get to work outside in the sunshine, wear shorts and singlets, take ‘smokos’, handle dangerous power tools and knock off around 3pm to head to the beach. Not bad at all!

Australia’s construction industry (which includes carpenters and joiners, electricians, plumbers, builders, painters and decorators, concreters and bricklayers) employs over 845,000 people - and even more are needed.

PLACES TO VISIT • Beaches • the Big Bowen Mango • Bowen historical museum • Stone Island and Abbott Point WHEN SHOULD I GO THERE? November to January - Mangoes May to June - Melons September to November - Melons May to November - Sweet corn, tomatoes HOW DO I GET THERE? Bowen is accessible by road via the Bruce Highway, being 1165 kms north of Brisbane and 206 kms south of Townsville. It is well connected by rail or bus.

With a labour shortage of skilled tradespeople, this is a highly accessible industry for working holiday makers. The flexible and often short-term nature of the work is ideal and many trades are listed on the Australian Government’s Occupations in Demand list, making skilled migration or employer-sponsored migration very possible.

Work is available everywhere, in both metropolitan and regional areas. Around 40% of construction jobs are outside state capital cities, with the majority of work being in New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland.

Similar to fruit picking and harvest work, construction work enables travellers to get a 12-month visa extension after working 3-months or more in approved regional parts of Australia.

And, its not just a job for the boys! Many girls can find themselves well paid jobs on worksites or as Road Traffic Controllers.

To work on a construction site in Australia it is a requirement that you hold an OH&S General Induction Certificate or ‘White Card’ as it’s commonly known. www.taw.com.au

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Beach end Street of Herbert 5 80 4 BOWEN Q

433 07 4786 3

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AYR & HOME HILL Ayr is located 85 kms south of Townsville and is recognised as one of the most productive sugar cane growing areas in Australia. Boasting over 300 sunny days per year, Ayr is situated on the northern approach to the Burdekin Bridge. The district offers the Burdekin River, creeks and miles of sandy beaches making the area a mecca for fishing, crabbing and water sports.

PLACES TO VISIT • The Burdekin Bridge (known as Silver Link),is over one kilometre long and is well known for being one of the longest bridges in Australia.

• Scuba dive at one of the world’s best wrecks - SS Yongala, Alva Beach Zaros Cutural Gallery.

WHEN SHOULD I GO THERE? May to June - Melons, watermelons May to November - Capsicums, egg fruit,cherry tomatoes,chillies, zucchinis June to December - Sugar cane September to December - Melons November to December - Mangoes HOW DO I GET THERE? Ayr is accessible by road via the Bruce Highway.

It is well connected by rail or bus using the Queensland network.

HOME HILL BACKPACKERS

WORKERS WANTED

Farm Work, Fruit Picking & Shed Work

Ayr Backpackers

WORKERS NEEDED NOW!!

Transport to and from work!

CLEAN & SPACIOUS Doubles, Dorms 4-6 people Full Laundry, Full Kitchen, BBQ Facilities Internet Cafe, Cable TV, Table Tennis, Pool Table Parks & Gardens abound One stop to shops, Hotel & Pool Fishing & Crabbing Wildlife tours

Contact Shelley or Nugget

Mobile: 0439 826 758

Ph: (07) 4782 1717 or (07) 4783 2477

Wilmington House

WORKING HOSTEL of the BURDEKIN DISTRICT • Open and airy Queensland-style four and six bedrooms • Internet Cafe • Pool, BBQs and tropical gardens • Table tennis and FREE pool table • Lockers • Video and TV rooms • Five full kitchen facilities • Clean, comfortable, quiet and friendly • Transport provided to work • Five minute walk to main street shopping and fast food store • FREE pick-up from Ayr bus terminal and railway station

CALL MICK & DAPHNE

07 4783 5837 ayrbackpackers@bigpond.com

www.ayrbackpackers.com.au

WORKERS WANTED

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WORK IN TULLY Tully, located 1557km from Brisbane and 180km south of Cairns on the Bruce Highway has a strong sugar cane industry. Known for being the wettest place in Australia, receiving on average 4134mm of rain per year. In the Tully area there are many beautiful beach towns such as Mission Beach and Bingil Bay. PLACES TO VISIT • The Tully Sugar Mill • Golden Gumboot • Tully Gorge (try some white water rafting) • Mount Tyson Rainforest Walk WHEN SHOULD I GO THERE? All year round - Bananas June to November - Sugar Cane WHERE TO STAY? There are four hostels offering backpacker accommodation in Tully, as well as a caravan/ camping park. Advance bookings are essential if you want to work here!

HOW DO I GET THERE? Tully is accessible by road via the Bruce Highway.

It is well connected by rail or bus using the Queensland network.

WORK AVAILABLE FOR BACKPACKERS

FRUIT PICKING ALL YEAR ROUND! > Help Provided in Finding Work > Free Transport to Farms > 4 Beds per Room, Air-conditioned, TV, Fridge > Fully Equipped Kitchen & Laundry > Bar, Nightclub, Beer Garden, Restaurant, Bottleshop > Internet, TV Lounge, Pool Tables > Backpacker Specials

Great Location! Right in the Centre of Town.

5 Butler Street • Tully Qld 4854 Phone (07) 4068 1044 www.hoteltully.com.au

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