Experience Brisbane Spring 2024 - Winter 2025

EXPERIENCE

BRISBANE A GUIDE TO THE BEST OF THE CIT Y

e s i r e h T

OF THE RIVER CITY

SPRING 2024–WINTER 2025

CONTENTS SPRING 2024–WINTER 2025

08 National Supply Lead

Rebecca Madden General Manager Local Agent

Clint Gudenswager Business Development Manager Local Agent

Lauren Coad Local Agent Executive

Sarah Woodbury Campaign Manager

Elle Barnes Advertising Enquiries

localagent@bigred.group ABOUT EXPERIENCE OZ MAGAZINE 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.

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WHAT'S ON

THE BEST OF

We have all the latest happenings to keep you busy and inspired in the Sunshine State's capital.

BRISBANE AND BEYOND

06 LOCALS WE LOVE

Live like a local with these insider tips for where to eat, stay, play and shop.

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

08 DAY TRIPPIN'

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.

Want to get out of town for the day? Here's where to go.

ON THE COVER

The Story Bridge as seen from Howard Smith Wharves Photo: Natalie McComas

Managing Director Rod Mooseek Executive Content Director Clare Brundle

PHOTO: BEDA - BRISBANE CONTENT TOOLKIT

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 PEFC Certified Paper from sustainably managed forests and controlled sources PEFC/21-31-119

pefcaustralia.org.au

To download a copy of this magazine, scan here.

Welcome!

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

SPRING 2024–WINTER 2025

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Full Day MORETON ISLAND & Tangalooma Wrecks Cruise

Book at reception

Book at reception

TH E H OT LI S T

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

// ON THE MENU

<< N A L D H A M H O U S E 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

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M E M O R I E S S O A R AT M U S E U M O F B R I S B A N E E X H I B I T I O N

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.

P H O T O S : B R I S B A N E C I T Y C O U N C I L ; S U B U R B A N S U B L I M E : Good Friday 1987, Kelvin Grove, Brisbane – Gerard and his girlfriend hung out his washing, Collection: Queensland Art Gallery | Gallery of Modern Art / © Glen O’Malley

New natural wellness zones now open

museumofbrisbane.com.au

SET SIGHTS ON SUBURBAN SUBLIME AUSTRALIAN PHOTOGRAPHY

Victoria Park has revealed new wellness zones. There’s its Nature Wellness Rejuvenation Zone in a grove of gum trees, Transformative Trees Rejuvenation Zone, Country Connection Rejuvenation Zone, and the Awe and Appreciation Rejuvenation Zone, overlooking the city skyline. brisbane.qld.gov.au

T H E B AT H H O U S E ALBION LEVELS-UP LUXU RY

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.

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

thebathhousealbion.com.au

<< C H E F A L B A R I Z Z O L E A D S F I R M A I TA L I A N

<< S U P E R N O R M A L A N D B A R M I E T T E H AV E A R R I V E D

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.

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.

firmaitalian.com.au

brisbane.supernormal.net.au

SPRING 2024–WINTER 2025

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I N S I D E R TI P S

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

Left to right: New Farm Park; Howard Smith Wharves; Joy Restaurant; Frank Street Store in Norman Park

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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.”

PHOTOS: BEDA; JESSE SMITH; L ADY BRISBANE; L AUREN HOOPER VISUALS; @ J O Y R E S TA U R A N T; @ F R A N K . S T R E E T. S T O R E .

SARAH BALDWIN

DEAN ROMEO

Chef & Owner of Joy Restaurant

Brand Director, Felons Brewing Co.

“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.

“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.

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.”

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.”

WHERE TO FIND

TINY GIRAFFE 0421 635 553 tinygiraffe.co

JOY RESTAURANT 'Bakery Lane' , Shop 7, 694 Ann Street Fortitude Valley 4006 joyrestaurant.com.au

FELONS BREWING CO. 5 Boundary Street, Brisbane City felonsbrewingco.com.au

SPRING 2024–WINTER 2025

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G E T OU T O F TOW N

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.

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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

A GUIDED TOUR TO THE PRISTINE LADY ELLIOT ISLAND SEES VISITORS WHISKED AWAY AND FLOWN OVER TURQUOISE WATERS

TOOWOOMBA

PHOTOS: TOURISM AND EVENTS QUEENSL AND; @CASTLEANDCROWN.

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.

MALENY & MONTVILLE 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.

BURLEIGH HEADS 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.

L A DY E L L I O T I S L A N D 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.

SPRING 2024–WINTER 2025

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3 Parks 3 Days

4 Parks 7 Days

4 Parks 14 Days

IT ALL HAPPENS HERE See hotel reception to book.

2404506 SEA WORLD © 2024 & TM Sea World Property Trust. DC RIVALS HYPERCOASTER and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © DC Comics. WARNER BROS. MOVIE WORLD and logo and all related characters and elements are trademarks of and © Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc.

HOP ON HOP OFF BUS

KIDS HALF PRICE

THINGS TO DO IN TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN Coffee Plantation Adventure Parks

Waterfalls

Local Food

Glow Worms

Sightseeing

Distilleries

Skywalk

Shopping

Breweries

Gallery Walk

National Parks

Wineries

Day Tours

LARGE RANGE OF TOURS AVAILABLE

BOOK A DAY TOUR

Rainforests

BOOK AT RECEPTION

Best of Brisbane

Australian Outback Spectacular EXPERIENCE

TALK TO YOUR TOUR DESK OR HOTEL CONCIERGE TO BOOK AN EXPERIENCE

A N D B E YO N D

CHAT WITH THE CONCIERGE $$$

My top tip for first-time visitors

The Star Grand Brisbane BEN COLE

"Walk along the boardwalk under the Story Bridge and follow the New Farm River Walk."

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

Con-X-ion

Dreamworld

TRANSPORT

THEME PARK

$$$

$

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.

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

HIGHLIGHTS

• Door-to-door services from Brisbane Airport • Transfers to Brisbane International Cruise Terminal • Operating hours 24/7 (limited services at Christmas)

• Experience thrill, family and kids' rides • Interact with Australian wildlife and fun characters • The only place to see tigers on the Gold Coast

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$

$$

$$$

COST

SUITABLE FOR FAMILIES

SUITABLE FOR THE SOLO TRAVELLER

Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights

GoBoat Brisbane SIGHTSEEING

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.

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

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

• No boat licence or experience required • Up to 8 people per boat (including children) • Available for 1- to 3-hour hire

Hot Air Balloon Brisbane EXPERIENCE

Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort Day Tour 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.

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

HIGHLIGHTS

• Morning hot air balloon flight • Full hot breakfast and sparkling wine • Local wine-tasting and premium digital photo pac

• Visit the home of the manta ray • Spend five hours exploring Lady Elliot Island • Includes courtesy pickup from selected hotels

NIGHT-TIME ACTIVITY

RAINY DAY OPTION

SUITABLE FOR THE ADVENTUROUS TRAVELLER

SPRING 2024–WINTER 2025

BOOK NOW WITH YOUR TOUR DESK OR HOTEL CONCIERGE

$$$

13

Pineapple Tours

Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art

SIGHTSEEING

TALK TO YOUR TOUR DESK OR HOTEL CONCIERGE TO BOOK AN EXPERIENCE

EXPERIENCE

$$

$

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.

Discover fascinating insights into impressive artworks before a relaxing lunch during the Taste of QAGOMA experience. Ideally located at Brisbane’s Southbank.

HIGHLIGHTS

HIGHLIGHTS

• Daily tours, depart at 8.30am, return by 4:30pm • Unwind with walks, waterfalls and wineries • Flexible all-day ticket, unlimited mountain stops

• Guided tour by experienced cultural guides • Hear behind-the-scenes stories • Enjoy a relaxing lunch by the river

SEA LIFE Sunshine Coast

See Moreton

EXPERIENCE

SIGHTSEEING

$$

$$$

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.

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

HIGHLIGHTS

• Queensland’s largest aquarium • Home to thousands of marine & freshwater animals • Daily seal presentation included in admission price

• Full-day tour experience on Moreton Island • Tropical buffet lunch with ocean king prawns • Tasty frozen cocktails and onboard bar

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$

$$

$$$

COST

SUITABLE FOR FAMILIES

SUITABLE FOR THE SOLO TRAVELLER

Skydive Australia

Summer Land Camels

EXPERIENCE

ADVENTURE

$

$$$

PHOTO: Installation view of Under the jacaranda 1903 by R. Godfrey Rivers, England/ Australia 1858–1925 / Photograph: Chloë Callistemon, QAGOMA

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

HIGHLIGHTS

• Complimentary return transfers to Skydive Byron Bay from Brisbane CBD every Tuesday and Saturday • Freefall for up to 60 incredible seconds

• Discover the amazing world of camels • Experience the beauty of the Scenic Rim • Book now for an extraordinary day out

Tamborine Mountain Distillery

Tangalooma Island Resort

EXPERIENCE

EXPERIENCE

$$

BOOK NOW WITH YOUR TOUR DESK OR HOTEL CONCIERGE

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.

$$

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.

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

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

• 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

NIGHT-TIME ACTIVITY

RAINY DAY OPTION

SUITABLE FOR THE ADVENTUROUS TRAVELLER

SPRING 2024–WINTER 2025

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S U N S H I N E C OA S T A P P R OX . 8 0 M I N S 10

L A DY EL L I OT ISL AND EC O R ES O R T DAY TO U R

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The Map BES T OF BRI S B A NE AN D B E Y OND

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REDCLIFFE

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1 Australian

Outback Spectacular 2 Conxion 3 Dreamworld 4 Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights 5 GoBoat Brisbane 6 GOMA

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BRISBANE AIRPORT 5

NORTH STRADBROKE ISLAND

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6

GOMA 4

M A C L E AY ISLAND 13

BRISBANE

R E D L A N D B AY

7 HOT AIR Balloon

Brisbane

8 Lady Elliot Island

Eco Resort Day Tour 9 Pineapple Tours

10 SEA LIFE

Sunshine Coast 11 See Moreton 12 Skydive Australia 13 Summer Land Camels 14 Tamborine Mountain Distillery 15 Tangalooma Island Resort

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TA M B O R I N E N AT I O N A L PA R K / TA M B O R I N E M O U N TA I N

COOMERA

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3

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SOUTHPORT

QUEENSL AND

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B Y R O N B AY A P P R OX . 2 H R S