The opinions expressed in Experience Oz Magazine are those of the individual authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of Big Red Group or Hardie Grant Media. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information in this magazine, no responsibility can be accepted by Hardie Grant Media for errors or omissions, and in particular no responsibility can be accepted for the quality of the goods and services, including prices quoted or errors. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part, either electronically or conventionally, without written permission from the Big Red Group is strictly prohibited. Advertisements in Experience Oz Magazine are the responsibility of the advertiser.
WHAT'S ON
We have all the latest happenings to keep you busy and inspired in the Sunshine State's capital. 06
LOCALS WE LOVE
Experience Oz Magazine is published for the Big Red Group by Heads & Tales, a Hardie Grant Media agency, Level 7, 45 Jones Street, Ultimo, NSW 2007, and acknowledges the Yugambeh/ Kombumerri community as the traditional custodians of the land located in south-east Queensland and north-east New South Wales. www.headsandtales.agency
Managing Director Rod Mooseek
Executive Content Director Clare Brundle
Managing Editor Mary Weaver
Group Art Director Neil Smith
Senior Designer Sue Morony
Designer Nerida Shield
Publishing Director Christine Dixon
Publishing Executive Shahirah Hambali Printer IVE Group
To download a copy of this magazine, scan here.
Live like a local with these insider tips for where to eat, stay, play and shop. 08
DAY TRIPPIN'
Want to get out of town for the day? Here's where to go.
Welcome!
12
THE BEST OF BRISBANE AND BEYOND
We've rounded up the best attractions and experiences for you during your Brissy stay. Talk to your hotel tour desk.
16
THE MAP
Find your way to all the top experiences in Brisbane and beyond, including the Gold and Sunshine Coasts.
Welcome to Queensland’s thriving capital, Brisbane: a vibrant and exciting city with adventure at every turn. From acclaimed restaurants to high-octane outdoor activities enjoyed on Brisbane’s iconic river, there’s something for everyone in this bustling yet relaxed metropolis.
Known for its unique blend of culture, natural beauty and laidback lifestyle, Brisbane offers a thriving
arts and cultural scene with worldclass theatres, museums and art galleries while also being Australia’s sporting capital with major events such as the NRL’s Magic Round and the Brisbane International. We are also the soon-to-be Olympic and Paralympic host city, with the Games heading our way in 2032. We can’t wait to keep welcoming you back to Brisbane, time and time again.
Hon Michael Healy MP Minister for Tourism and Sport
ON THE COVER
The Story Bridge as seen from Howard Smith Wharves
Photo: Natalie McComas
WHAT'S ON
LIKE THE CURRENT OF ITS MEANDERING RIVER, BRISBANE IS A CITY CHARGED BY CREATIVITY AND YEAR-ROUND SUNSHINE. HERE’S ALL THE MUST-KNOW HAPPENINGS.
WORDS: SONYA GELLERT
The Star Grand sets new standard in stays
As part of the new Queen’s Wharf transformation, 5-star hotel The Star Grand is home to more than 300 luxury rooms and suites, and four penthouses with striking views. The ultra-contemporary hotel centres its guests in its new entertainment precinct. star.com.au/brisbane/hotels
<< NALDHAM HOUSE OPENS ITS DOORS
A grand, heritage-listed building that until mid-July 2024 had sat empty for more than a decade, has been given new life as a multilevel dining destination. Naldham House is now home to a Europeanstyle brasserie and terrace – with interiors by Brisbane’s interior design queen Anna Spiro. naldhamhouse.com.au
MEMORIES SOAR AT MUSEUM OF BRISBANE EXHIBITION
Museum of Brisbane Artists in Residence, Christine Ko and Louis Lim, have invited Brisbane’s migrant communities to share stories by making kites using family photographs. Until 19 January 2025, the kites will be accompanied by written memories – aimed at prompting wider discourse about immigration. museumofbrisbane.com.au
<< CHEF ALBA RIZZO LEADS FIRMA ITALIAN
ALBION LEVELS-UP
Those seeking solace can unwind at newly opened, architecturally designed The Bathhouse Albion. This ultraluxurious wellness retreat gives a polished nod to bygone European bathhouses (in contemporary style) and 5-star amenities with all the makings of an indulgent, restorative escape. thebathhousealbion.com.au
On the menu of Firma Italian – a newly opened restaurant tucked inside the opulent Emporium Hotel South Bank –Italian chef Alba Rizzo’s menu brings together memories of her childhood, practised techniques and carefully selected produce. Her dishes tell a delicious story. firmaitalian.com.au
SET SIGHTS ON SUBURBAN SUBLIME AUSTRALIAN
PHOTOGRAPHY
Until 17 August 2025, Queensland Art Gallery will host Suburban Sublime, a uniquely Australian photography exhibition that shares artists’ interpretations of the nation’s suburbs. View life outside Australia’s capital cities across the decades, through the camera lens. qagoma.qld.gov.au
<< SUPERNORMAL AND BAR MIETTE HAVE ARRIVED
Brisbane has welcomed the arrival of chef Andrew McConnel’s newest restaurant, Supernormal – alongside its sibling, Bar Miette. While complementing its Melbourne counterpart, the northernmost Supernormal is no replica, with a relaxed-yet-sophisticated riverside charm of its own.
brisbane.supernormal.net.au
LOCALS WE LOVE
What do an award-winning chef, a mural artist and a popular brewery’s hyper-creative brand director have in common? These three Brisbane residents all have the insider knowledge on where to enjoy the best of their River City.
WORDS: SONYA GELLERT
KYLIE HARBER Artist and Founder of Tiny Giraffe
“If I’m not hiking through Seven Hills, I’m likely enjoying brunch at either Morning After, Farm House, Florence Cafe or Sister. I’m also obsessed with Darvella Patisserie for pastries and sticky chai lattes. For take-home treats, I head to Jocelyn’s Provisions or Flour & Chocolate. I love to wander down Oxford Street in Bulimba for homewares, clothes, flowers and gifts. I also adore the newly opened Frank Street Store, an independent gift shop in Norman Park. To burn energy, I go to Urban Climb or Inna Bliss Yoga. In the evening, it’s lovely to sit on the deck at Il Molo Italian Kitchen & Bar. You can watch the sun go down over the river while eating pasta and drinking wine. If it’s a special occasion, I go to Agnes or Cinco Bistro.”
Left to right: New Farm Park; Howard Smith Wharves; Joy Restaurant; Frank Street Store in Norman Park
SARAH BALDWIN Chef & Owner of Joy Restaurant
“When I’m not cooking, I love to visit casual places – Biang Biang Noodle, Ramen Danbo, Nodo Donuts and New Farm Deli and Cafe. For its peaceful setting (and its matcha) I love Mountain River Patisserie. To shop, I opt for West End Markets – it has so many stalls to visit. In the mornings I run along the New Farm River Walk, then grab coffee at Gigi’s at Howard Smith Wharves. I also love spending my day in the State Library of Queensland, especially the Queensland Writers Centre workshops.
I also have such a soft spot for Fortitude Valley. The laneways are an exciting place to spend an afternoon and evening. There are so many little restaurants (including my 36sqm restaurant) plus cocktail and wine bars to roam between.”
DEAN ROMEO Brand Director, Felons Brewing Co.
“Brisbane sure has arrived in the culinary space. My top three tasty spots are Stanley Restaurant for its steamed coral trout, Gerard’s for its celebration of Middle Eastern cuisine, and Yoko for a Japanese feast.
Felons Brewing Co. and Felons Barrel Hall are my happy places. There’s nothing better than parking up along the mighty Brisbane River with an icy cold pint. Another spot I love is Wineism in Albion –a sophisticated wine bar and store.
I love Open House in West End for locally made clothing and gifts. The Great Artist Market is a nice opportunity to meet local makers and artists, and Magpie Goose in Bowen Hills is my go-to for a fresh fit. A bush walk up Mt Coot-Tha is another awesome experience.”
NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND
There are few experiences more quintessentially Queensland than boarding a ferry bound for North Stradbroke Island (Minjerribah). Conveniently perched a short walk from the Dunwich Ferry Terminal is Straddie Brewing Co, offering crisp pours and views across the bay. Swim at one of the pristine beaches – Cylinder, Main or Frenchmans – see culturally significant Myora Springs and Brown Lake, and take The Gorge Walk, ending at Oceanic Gelato Bar. To immerse yourself in the culture and natural beauty of the island, take a guided tour with Elisha Kissick of Yura Tours or join a walk with artist Delvene Cockatoo-Collins.
DAY TRIPPIN'
Just beyond Brisbane’s edges lie its diverse regions where verdant mountainscapes mingle with ancient rainforests, abundant wildlife abounds, boutique stores present locally made wares, and a patchwork of golden farmland is home to a veritable foodbowl awaiting epicurean travellers.
WORDS: SONYA GELLERT
TOOWOOMBA
While this Darling Downs city may be best known for the Toowoomba Carnival of Flowers, sophisticated shops and dining destinations have injected it with new life. Queens Park is resplendent in any season, but it’s the artisanal goods – from The Tea Centre’s blends to Metiisto Artisan Chocolate and The Baker’s Duck pastries – that delight daytrippers. Pick up coffee and gifts from The Store Room, flowers from Ruby Lane and catch a show at heritage-listed The Empire Theatre. For lunch, try Japanese diner Kuro Beko or Filipino restaurant Kasina. Come late afternoon, Host. Dining + Wine Bar serves top-notch wines and dishes.
BURLEIGH HEADS
A
GUIDED TOUR TO THE PRISTINE LADY ELLIOT ISLAND SEES VISITORS WHISKED AWAY AND FLOWN OVER TURQUOISE
WATERS
LADY ELLIOT ISLAND
Beyond the beaches of the Sunshine Coast lies its lush hinterland, just over an hour’s drive north from Brisbane. Maleny and Montville – about 14 minutes apart – present picturesque villages. Peruse curated vintage and homewares store maplehaus, and pick up a gift or two at eclectic Maleny Additions. Nearby, bathe in the greenery of Mary Cairncross Scenic Reserve and the Maleny Botanic Gardens. Meet local food and drink producers by stopping at Maleny Food Co. and Brouhaha Craft Beer Brewery. Then wander through Montille Art Gallery. Another short drive away is Mapleton, where Mapleton Public House serves up refined seasonal dishes amid leafy surroundings.
This popular surfing destination, about an hour’s drive south of Brisbane, has transformed into a centre for fine food – hello, Restaurant Labart, Rick Shores and Maman – sunset drinks – think beachfront Burleigh Pavilion’s adjoined The Tropic, Rosella’s, Paloma Wine Bar and Malibu Racquet Club – and vibrant street eats – from Thai and Vietnamese cafes to burger joints and Mexican fare. Burleigh Heads’ beachfront remains a drawcard. Meander through the National Park from the beach toward Tallebudgera Creek. Allow time for the area’s boutiques – bounce between the clothing and homewares stores of James Street.
Snorkelling on the Great Barrier Reef may not be an option most travellers would consider possible while staying in Brisbane – and yet, a short 90-minute flight means a day trip to the reef’s southernmost cay is within reach. A guided tour to the pristine Lady Elliot Island sees visitors whisked away and flown over turquoise waters before landing in paradise. Once you’re there, you can snorkel or board a glass-bottom boat for an up-close view of tropical fish darting through vibrant coral. If you’re lucky, you’ll see dolphins and turtles at play. Enjoy a buffet, a fish feeding then a flight and transfer back to your hotel. Too easy.
SCENIC RIM
The foothills of the Great Dividing Range beckon roadtrippers seeking greenery and repast in the Scenic Rim region. Just over an hour’s drive south from Brisbane, savour the tastes of this produce-driven region. On Tamborine Mountain, visit amaro-centred distillery Loborn, Picnic Real Food Cafe, eco-driven Outland Denim, Potta Studios and baguette-slinging bakery Franquette. Alternatively, take a leisurely lunch at Scenic Rim Farm Shop & Cafe, winery hop, meet Summer Land Camels or take a hot air balloon ride.
MALENY & MONTVILLE
THINGS TO DO IN TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN
Rainforests
Waterfalls
Sightseeing
Shopping
National Parks
BOOK A DAY TOUR
LARGE RANGE OF TOURS AVAILABLE
Coffee Plantation
Local Food Distilleries
Breweries
Wineries
Adventure Parks
Glow Worms
Skywalk Gallery Walk Day Tours
Best of Brisbane AND BEYOND
The Star Grand Brisbane BEN COLE "Walk along the boardwalk under the Story Bridge and follow the New Farm River Walk." My top tip
Conxion is the leading transport provider for Brisbane airport with economical, frequent and door-to-door airport shuttle services daily. The only operator with a customer service desk at both Domestic & International terminals. Private transfers are also available.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Door-to-door services from Brisbane Airport
• Transfers to Brisbane International Cruise Terminal
• Operating hours 24/7 (limited services at Christmas)
Australian Outback Spectacular
EXPERIENCE
$$$
Heartland takes guests on a compelling and emotional journey to the outback, through a transformative arena, immersive projection mapping, mesmerising animals and true Australian characters. Includes a delicious threecourse dinner with beverages.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Dinner and drinks included
• Weekday and Saturday pricing
• Doors open 6pm, showtime 7.30pm
Dreamworld
THEME PARK
$$$
This iconic Australian theme park has been helping guests make memories for more than 40 years. Enjoy family-friendly and thrillseeker rides – including the new Steel Taipan triple-launch coaster – see wildlife or make a splash at WhiteWater World next door.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Experience thrill, family and kids' rides
• Interact with Australian wildlife and fun characters
• The only place to see tigers on the Gold Coast
Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights
ADVENTURE
$$$
Experience the adventure of ballooning and enjoy glorious views floating over Brisbane’s big backyard. We are Brisbane's closest hot air balloon company, only 30 minutes west of the city. The tour runs 3-4 hours and includes a one-hour flight and restaurant breakfast.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Only one flight per day, maximum 10 passengers
• Every flight is with the owner / chief pilot who has more than 32 years of ballooning experience
Hot Air Balloon Brisbane
EXPERIENCE
$$$
Experience a spectacular hot air balloon flight with our expert team. View the Scenic Rim from above, followed by breakfast at O’Reilly’s Canungra Valley Vineyard where you will enjoy a hot breakfast, a continental buffet, wine tasting and an alpaca experience.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Morning hot air balloon flight
• Full hot breakfast and sparkling wine
• Local wine-tasting and premium digital photo pac
GoBoat Brisbane
SIGHTSEEING
$$$
Be your own captain on the Brisbane River with GoBoat. Explore the city by water in an eco-friendly electric picnic boat. No boat licence required. BYO food and drinks. Perfect for all ages.
HIGHLIGHTS
• No boat licence or experience required
• Up to 8 people per boat (including children)
• Available for 1- to 3-hour hire
Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort Day Tour
EXPERIENCE $$$
Experience the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. The fully guided day tour from Brisbane (Redcliffe) includes a scenic flight, glass-bottom boat and snorkel tour, buffet lunch, alcoholic beverage, snorkel equipment and short wetsuit hire plus fish feeding in the Lagoon.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Visit the home of the manta ray
• Spend five hours exploring Lady Elliot Island
• Includes courtesy pickup from selected hotels
Pineapple Tours
SIGHTSEEING $$
Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art
Discover Tamborine Mountain’s natural beauty with our hop-on hop-off bus. Explore lush rainforests and breathtaking waterfalls and spot native wildlife as you visit local attractions and scenic lookouts.
No trip to the Sunshine Coast is complete without visiting SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast Aquarium, a multiaward-winning, all-weather visitor attraction situated at The Wharf in Mooloolaba.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Queensland’s largest aquarium
• Home to thousands of marine & freshwater animals
• Daily seal presentation included in admission price
EXPERIENCE
$
Discover fascinating insights into impressive artworks before a relaxing lunch during the Taste of QAGOMA experience. Ideally located at Brisbane’s Southbank.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Guided tour by experienced cultural guides
• Hear behind-the-scenes stories
• Enjoy a relaxing lunch by the river
See Moreton
SIGHTSEEING
$$$
Set sail to discover paradise on Moreton Island (Mulgumpin) aboard the luxurious vessel the Spirit of Migaloo II. Perfect for families, locals and visitors alike. Encounter wild dolphins, snorkel the famed Tangalooma Wrecks and enjoy miles of pristine white sand beaches.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Full-day tour experience on Moreton Island
• Tropical buffet lunch with ocean king prawns
• Tasty frozen cocktails and onboard bar
Skydive Australia
EXPERIENCE
Summer Land Camels
Ready your endorphins and check your pulse; you’re about to view some of Australia’s most stunning coastlines from a whole new angle. Witness the sunshine-soaked village of Noosa or Byron Bay from up to 15,000 feet above those glorious blue seas.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Complimentary return transfers to Skydive Byron Bay from Brisbane CBD every Tuesday and Saturday
• Freefall for up to 60 incredible seconds
Tamborine Mountain Distillery
EXPERIENCE
Experience Queensland’s award-winning distillery at Tamborine Mountain. Enjoy a guided tour and exclusive tastings to sample our finest liqueurs and spirits and receive an exclusive discount on your purchases.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Explore craft distilling with a behind-the-scenes tour
• Sample liqueurs and spirits from over 80 flavours
• 10% discount with same-day liquor purchases
Indulge in a premium paddock-to-plate experience and book a camel trail ride adventure. Feed the friendly camels, browse the farm shop and enjoy stunning views at the café.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Discover the amazing world of camels
• Experience the beauty of the Scenic Rim
• Book now for an extraordinary day out
Tangalooma Island Resort
EXPERIENCE
With idyllic white beaches, crystal clear waters and a huge range of activities, including the opportunity to hand feed wild dolphins, Tangalooma is truly an island paradise in Brisbane’s backyard.
HIGHLIGHTS
• Huge range of day tours departing Brisbane daily
• Choose from a variety of land, sea and sky activities
• Full resort access, with pools, restaurants and more
