Journeys April/May 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF THE RACT

APRIL / MAY 2016

R AC T

FUEL PARTNER Terms and conditions apply

ract.com.au/united

MEMBERS

What’s inside your April/May edition ?

05 IN OUR COMMUNITY News and views, events and opinions on motoring, road safety and community issues from around Tasmania.

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WANDERLUST Taxi rides around the world or a round or two of golf on King Island – where will your wanderlust take you?

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LIFE ON THE MOVE

IN TASMANIA TODAY People and places, highlights and happenings from all parts of the island.

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GIVE THE ROYAL WAVE Save on great deals for you as an RACT member.

47 YOUR TRAVEL NEWS Twenty-one pages packed with travel tips and unbeatable offers for your next holiday, around the nation or across the world.

David Killick

New vehicle tests and reviews, motoring tips and advice, a day in the life of an RACT patroller, how Maddie became a mechanic – and meet our new ‘She says’ contributor Alice Agnew as she and Darren Moody drive the Hyundai Elantra.

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Meet the team (they’re the ones on the right) who spent the summer at Commonwealth Bay, working on the continuing restoration and protection of the century-old Mawson’s Huts. In the distance is L’Astrolabe, the French Antarctic supply ship that took them to and from Antarctica. See David Killick’s portfolio and story on page 34.

THE MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF THE RACT

APRIL / MAY 2016

ON THE COVER On page 14, Journeys Wanderlust contributor Philippa Williams hails a cab in ten different cities around the world – including in New York, where this image was captured.

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Journeys

APRIL / MAY 2016

HOW TO CONTACT US RACT branch network All RACT branches are open Monday to Friday from 8.45am – 5pm Our Cruise Travel Centre at 110 Collins Street Hobart is also open on Saturdays from 10am – 1pm Roadside Assist Call 13 11 11 any time

RACT Customer Service Call Centre Call 13 27 22 Monday to Friday from 8am – 8pm Saturday 9am – 2pm Please give us your feedback – visit www.ract.com.au log on to the Member Hub and keep up to date via Twitter and Facebook. @RACTOfficial

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IN OUR COMMUNITY

RACT – UNITED partnership to combat high fuel prices

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asmania’s regional status comes with its pros and cons. As locals we’re afforded access to some of Australia’s most pristine coastlines, idyllic microclimates for farming and viticulture, as well as the most pure air and water in the world. For years though, Tasmanians have paid excessively for the luxury of an island lifestyle through freight and fuel.

In a move to reduce the gap between mainland and Tasmanian fuel prices, the RACT recently announced its partnership with Australia’s largest independent fuel provider, United Petroleum.

RACT members can now use their newly-issued member cards to receive an exclusive eight cent per litre fuel discount from participating United Petroleum sites across Tasmania. This introductory discount will continue until 15 May, followed by an ongoing six cent per litre fuel discount, year-round.

United Petroleum Chief Operating Officer David Szymczak said that as an independent, Australian-owned company, United is proud to offer better value at the bowser for Tasmanians.

‘This discount will ensure we can supply the most competitivelypriced fuel across the state and in key locations where RACT members need it,’ he said.

‘To save at the bowser, simply present your RACT/United member card at one of our United outlets when purchasing fuel.’

RACT Chief Executive Officer Harvey Lennon said the ultimate aim was to deliver exceptional value to RACT members,

United Petroleum Chief Operating Officer David Szymczak tests his new RACT member card at United’s Sandy Bay station

particularly in the current environment of high fuel prices.

‘Our members have consistently told us that high petrol prices are a key concern – we receive multiple calls every day about the issue,’ he said.

‘The discounted price that will be available to our 177,000 members will help to address their concerns. We will continue to advocate a fair fuel deal for our members and Tasmanian community.’

The RACT / United discount offer will be available at nearly 40 sites in all parts of the state from 15 March.

For more information on this exclusive RACT member offer and the locations of participating United outlets, visit www.ract.com.au/united

It’s all in the stripe!

RACT Ultimate members will notice that the new cards don’t carry that magic word!

Don’t worry − all the details of your RACT membership, whether you’re an Ultimate, Advantage, Insurance or Travel member, are securely coded in the magnetic stripe on the back of your card.

APRIL / MAY 2016

Journeys

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IN OUR COMMUNITY ABOUT YOUR RACT PRESIDENT Peter Joyce VICE PRESIDENTS Kathryn Westwood Peter Dixon BOARD Josephine Archer Ted Best AM Alison Flakemore Jude Franks Phil Jones Chris Langdon Jenny Self Stuart Slade Sue Smith GROUP CHIEF EXECUTIVE Harvey Lennon HEAD OFFICE 179-191 Murray Street, Hobart Telephone (03) 6232 6300 Facsimile (03) 6234 8784 BRANCHES Hobart – 1/110 Collins Street (03) 6222 9222 Launceston, Cnr York & George Streets (03) 6335 5633 Devonport, 119 Rooke Street Mall (03) 6421 1933 Ulverstone, 38 Reibey Street (03) 6490 8350 Burnie, 24 North Terrace (03) 6434 2933 Rosny Park, 2 Bayfield Street (03) 6212 6755 Glenorchy, Cnr Main Road & Terry Street (03) 6212 9588 Kingston, Shop 60 Channel Court (03) 6242 3200 EDITOR Chris Viney GPO Box 1292, Hobart 7001 Email: c.viney@ract.com.au Ph: (03) 6236 4310 Fax: (03) 6234 8784 ADVERTISING Artemis Publishing Consultants Sue Wendell-Smith Ph: (03) 6231 6122 Fax: (03) 6231 6322 Email: sue@artemispublishing.com.au PUBLISHED BI-MONTHLY BY The Royal Automobile Club of Tasmania Limited ABN 62 009 475 861 Every effort is made to ensure the authenticity of ad­ver­tise­ments including product testing where practicable. However, publication of an advertisement does not imply that the product or service carries the recommendations of RACT. If you wish to stop receiving Journeys, please contact the RACT on 6236 4310 or email c.viney@ract.com.au. No part of Journeys may be reproduced without permission. Copyright 2016 RACT DESIGN & PRODUCTION: Digital Ink PRINTING: Hannanprint Victoria MAILHOUSE: D&D Mailing Services Distribution: Australia Post 151052 ISSN 0818-5549 6

Journeys

APRIL / MAY 2016

From the

GROUP CEO Harvey Lennon

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he recent technical fault on the Bridgewater Bridge that delayed it returning to its normal position after it was raised to allow a boat to pass underneath brought into sharp focus the need for community dialogue about infrastructure investment in Tasmania.

While the majority of funding for replacing the bridge is likely to be a matter for the Federal Government, the event reminded me of the importance of the RACT’s ongoing calls for general road maintenance and development.

In a recent submission to the Tasmanian Government in preparation for the State Budget, the RACT identified key road infrastructure improvements for consideration.

While the Midland Highway work needs to be adequately resourced to continue the desired rate of progression, improvement works need to be considered for the Bass Highway between Parramatta Creek and Latrobe and at a series of intersections at Wynyard.

The submission noted that road safety was still the highest priority for the RACT. The budget submission also called on the development of a tourist road strategy, particularly given the government’s target to increase tourist visitor numbers to Tasmania to 1.5 million people by 2020.

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obart RACT members will be well aware of recent traffic problems in the city during morning and evening peak times. Traffic was gridlocked on several evenings in succession throughout the Hobart CBD, to the Tasman Bridge, along the Brooker Highway, on Churchill Avenue and as far as the Mt Nelson turn-off on the Southern Outlet.

It is the RACT’s view that road infrastructure is not coping because it is at or near capacity.

This is made significantly worse when there is a crash or breakdown, or wet weather – of which we can expect more in the coming months. Certainly, the recent widely-publicised experiences of evening motorists prove this point.

So, what needs to be done?

An independent review to answer why Hobart is suddenly experiencing such traffic congestion is one important step we can take. Such a review would need to look at, for example, the need for a city bypass, public transport issues, traffic light timing and incentives for car pooling to reduce the number of cars on the road. The RACT welcomes the Tasmanian Government’s initiative to develop an action plan to deal with the issue.

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he RACT and United Petroleum, Australia’s largest independent fuel network, recently announced details of a unique partnership to combat Tasmania’s high fuel prices.

The offer is delivering RACT’s 177,000 members an eight cents per litre discount from 15 March for two months at United sites across the state. The arrangement will save motorists six cents per litre year-round.

IN OUR COMMUNITY

Recognising outstanding achievement –

RACT Insurance and RACT Travel W

e are delighted to acknowledge the great work of RACT people in our insurance and travel businesses, both of which have recently won prestigious national awards.

RACT Travel has taken home two awards at the helloworld Owner Managers Summit held recently in Wellington, New Zealand.

RACT Travel was selected as winners of the following awards: • Associate Local Area Marketing Award – RACT Travel Hobart, VIC/TAS/SA • Associate Manager of the Year – Christine Benbow, RACT Travel, VIC/TAS/SA Congratulations to Christine and the RACT Travel marketing department, who have worked tirelessly to create an outstanding travel agency group. It’s an honour for our team to win these awards, as it clearly reflects our position as experts and as leaders in the Australian travel industry.

RACT Insurance has been awarded the Roy Morgan General Insurer of the Year award. For this category, Roy Morgan Research asks customers to rate their level of satisfaction with a company’s products, service and organisation. The award is a fine reflection on the RACT brand and all the work everyone puts into reinforcing the member value proposition.

It acknowledges the team’s execution of our insurance operations across all facets including sales and distribution, claims, underwriting, portfolio and product and our back-office activities, which support the delivery of exceptional member outcomes.

A bove: RACT’s Travel Sales Manager Christine Benbow with David Padman, Head of Associates Network, helloworld

A bove: RACT Insurance CEO Trent Sayers is presented with the trophy by Michele Levine, CEO of Roy Morgan Research

RACT’s State Budget submission calls for a tourist road strategy T

he RACT has called for the development of a tourist road strategy in its 2016/17 State Budget submission.

drivers about the unique challenges associated with travelling on Tasmanian roads should also be considered,’ he said.

The submission identifies a number of key routes that need to be improved to better provide for tourists in terms of their safety and travelling convenience.

‘There are many examples interstate and overseas that range from simple initiatives such as directional arrows for motorists accustomed to driving on the right-hand side of the road to interactive online resources which can be accessed prior to commencing any journey.’

They include: • Hastings Caves Road • Richmond Road between Cambridge and Richmond • Arthur Highway at Eaglehawk Neck and Port Arthur Our submission identifies specific initiatives that should be funded, including multilingual signs, wide shoulders on tourist routes and a digital campaign to better educate motorists about road kill.

RACT CEO Harvey Lennon said these initiatives were particularly important in view of the significant projected increase in visitor numbers.

‘The introduction of additional means to educate international

The RACT’s submission noted that road safety was still our highest priority. Key areas listed for the government’s consideration were: • Driver inattention and distraction • Roadside workers being exposed to dangerous situations in high speed environments • Continuation of high-profile policing on Tasmanians roads Mr Lennon said the RACT had, over the years, remained steadfast on a number of issues relating to general road maintenance and development.

APRIL / MAY 2016

Journeys

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IN OUR COMMUNITY

Street smart

Member

We asked – Do you use shopper dockets when purchasing fuel?

Do you think shoppers might actually be paying for this discount at the supermarket checkout?

in focus John Lampkin

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use shopper dockets if I have any current ones and if the diesel price is not inflated at the participating servo. My car takes 180 litres, so it is worthwhile.

Hill Street offers 10c a litre discount, Woolies is 4c.

I tend to regard them as a bonus rather than considering whether I have already paid through the nose at the shop or supermarket.

BRUCE MONTGOMERY

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use the shopper dockets at the petrol station, but I’m aware that we’ve already paid for it at the checkout. The coupon is factored into the bill for my groceries at the supermarket. But I use them anyway, although I wouldn’t go out of my way to cash one in.

FLORIDA RICKARD

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e’re a two-person household these days and we choose to limit our supermarket shopping excursions to only one a month. We top up our fresh food supplies with opportunist shopping in between the supermarket visits. We use our dockets from Woolworths at Sorell to buy fuel. If Woolworths didn’t supply the discount our shopping list would still be the same, so, in our case, the dockets definitely represent a bonus.

MIKE JENKINSON

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he only reason I don’t use shopper dockets is forgetting to take them. If I buy fuel at the local Woolworths/Caltex I earn points on my Frequent Shopper Card, which, from time to time turns into a $20 voucher to be used at Woolies and/or their associates.

Having said that, I seldom buy fuel there. I get better service and nice interested people at the local United servo. And yes, of course they are recovering it one way or another.

PAUL GEORGE

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don’t use them. I support independent service stations, because I don’t like the big companies taking over everything and squeezing the little guys out. Fortunately, I have one close to me on Regent Street in Sandy Bay and close my mum’s house in Prospect, outside of Launceston.

KATI AGH

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es, I do use shopper dockets and yes, I’ve certainly paid for it at the supermarket checkout. Altruism plays no part in Woolies’ marketing strategy. It must be particularly galling for those people who don’t own a car – especially pensioners and other disadvantaged members of the community – to be paying for fuel subsidies that they don’t use. Perhaps they should be able to trade in their dockets for discounts at the checkout.

JOHN ELLSMORE 8

Journeys

APRIL / MAY 2016

Interviews: Mike Kerr

Tasmanian born John Lampkin has spent almost the last three decades living on Bruny Island. Following in his father’s bricklaying footsteps for most of his working life, John has recently embarked on a new tourism operation on his much-loved island – Bruny 4x4 Forest to Coast Adventures. John now takes visitors to distant corners of Bruny aboard two well-kitted four-wheel-drives and once aboard with him, you can tell he loves his new job. He serves a delicious lunch too!

Tell me about your current car. Does it have any favourite features?

The current vehicle, one of two I use for our tours, is my Nissan Patrol. Perhaps the best feature that I’ve added is the suspension modification to ensure guests have a smooth ride. Of course there’s plenty more too – the rack on the roof for carrying equipment, the back refrigerator, electronics, modified off-road tyres, bull bar, winch and rock sliders, just to name a few.

Ever done your own urgent car repairs?

This isn’t my own story but my father’s, the man who taught me to drive. Following an engine bearing failure in his Austin A40, he’d heard that the use of a boot’s leather tongue might just do the job to get him home. And apparently it worked! He also broke down on the old Hobart floating bridge the day before it closed – he was the last person to do so before the new one opened.

Tell us about the strangest day you’ve had on the roads in Tasmania.

You won’t believe it but this series of events happened all in the one day. I was in my work ute and another driver was in a Subaru WRX with a loud exhaust at traffic lights on the Brooker. The rain had just

IN OUR COMMUNITY stopped so the road was still greasy. He took off from the lights heading north, showing off, and managed to lose complete control. We sat back, driving slowly as this kid hit the kerb, went up on the median strip, got back off it then kept driving with a very embarrassed expression up the highway, I reckon.

A little further up near the K-Mart lights, I saw a wheel come off a car and head up into the bushes.

I could see smoke ahead and brake lights coming on really hard. Just in front of me was a four-car pile-up.

I was fortunate to avoid it – but only just.

Later that day, I was coming over the Tasman Bridge in the far left lane and I noticed a large container up ahead, not moving.

Turns out it wasn’t even on a truck, it had slipped off and was sitting in the middle of my lane as I approached at 70 km/h.

I had just enough time to hit the anchors, skidding to a halt with locked brakes. Further up the road I saw the truck driver standing beside his truck with its missing container, scratching his head.

How far back does your love of four-wheel-driving go?

We’ve been four-wheel-driving since the days before we had a four-wheel-drive! These trips used to take a long time because we kept getting stuck. We went to Fortescue Bay before there was a road in. There used to be an old track further north, up an old fire trail. We went down in the summer so it wasn’t too wet but there were still a lot of holes and creeks. We took Dad’s car and us bigger boys (I had four brothers and one sister), had to keep getting out to gather sticks and logs to cover the holes to get through. We’d all have to get out and push. My uncle and family of five came behind in their car – a Kombi van with a dinghy on top. They were pretty adventurous times.

Ever had fire coming out the back of your car?

Well, yes! It was a ’66 Ford station wagon – my father’s old car. We were coming back from Safety Cove from a camping trip. I heard this noise in the back of the wagon just up out of Dunalley. The wheel bearing had let go, and in older-model cars nothing holds the wheel to the car, so it comes out past the mud guard. Next thing the brake fluid catches on fire. All six of us boys in the car leap out – the back seaters leap through the front doors and we throw gravel and dirt onto the flames to get it out.

That was one crazy day.

Where do you plan to spend your next holiday?

I’m a big believer in seeing my own country before seeing others, so most of our holidays are in Tasmania. We are off on the boat later in the year though to Cape York. It’s on the hit list of every four-wheel driver.

Photos and interview Alice Hansen

Opinion Rob Riddell

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eter Leschen’s recent Journeys article ‘Let’s prevent accidents, not just minimise their consequences’ contained valuable insights.

As Peter suggests, raising awareness of inattention is easier, more effective and far more economical than curing the consequences of driver inattention.

On the following page I read a report on the new light-controlled intersections on the Brooker Highway in the vicinity of the Showgrounds. Great idea, excellent design and provision for the future in the laying of a third lane through the intersection, ready if the highway is expanded to three lanes.

However, this is where I think the two articles show opposing outcomes. I want to focus my attention on the ‘short third lanes’ at the existing light-controlled intersections on the highway.

Currently, these third lane sections pose crash-encouragement qualities. The third lane is an open invitation for those wishing to show others how to get past three or four cars by diverging into the third lane, then on the green light, or even when the light is already green, speeding ahead of those in the left continuous lane, before having to merge back into the two-lane road, hoping that all drivers are aware of the merging rules. This is repeated at each successive set of intersections.

The demerging, rushing ahead and remerging causes unnecessary additional risks and increases the potential for crashes – it would be misleading to call them ‘accidents’.

Using these short lanes to demerge left-turning traffic on one side of the intersection; and to merge entering traffic on the other side is necessary. But in my view, there is another vital and practical need that these short lane sections could fulfil. They could be marked as EMERGENCY VEHICLE ONLY lanes, giving these vehicles priority passage. It would separate emergency traffic from routine traffic and ease confusion about how to give way to emergency vehicles, where sometimes none exists. Road markings such as hatching and appropriate signage would advise drivers.

There are similar examples of BUS ONLY sections of road.

It seems the losses of a minority could be gains for the majority – reduced tension, less aggravation and smoother traffic flow, as well as helping drivers maintain that all-important attention, without needing to react to impatient mergers – and as I propose, helping to ease emergency vehicles through tight spots on the highway.

As part of the enforcement, it could be made an infringement event for non-emergency vehicles to use these short third lanes.

What do other RACT members think?

APRIL / MAY 2016

Journeys

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IN OUR COMMUNITY

Your views

A crash waiting to happen

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ttached is a photo of one of the many infringements we see all too often on Eaglehawk Neck. I’ve even seen the driver of a small coach of another company stop on the road pavement in the northbound lane, allowing passengers to disembark and amble across the highway to the Dog Line statue. No matter that there are several large and small ‘No Standing’ signs in both directions – tourists are aware there is something to see somewhere on The Neck and are blind to any signage while they watch out for the feature. It is not helpful that there is a wide gravel verge on the southbound side, inviting standing or parking. When an event is held at the nearby community hall, the local authorities erect a star post and reflective rope barrier along the centre of this verge so guests will not be able to park. I think a more permanent solution in the form of a row of normal plastic guideposts should be erected there immediately. It will only take a vehicle to be standing in this well-signed ‘No Standing’ zone, a large coach, a chicken food tanker and some rubbernecking inattention for there to be an horrendous event in our beauty spot.

A sacred site

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wo items especially caught my eye in the February/March issue of Journeys. It really does not matter which Tasmanian company won the tender for the Brooker Highway upgrade – the material point surely is that the current government is keeping its pre-election promises on road improvement. Credit where it is due!

Having overseas visitors, we followed the recommendation of YD Bar-Ness (‘A motorist’s guide to the giant trees of Tasmania’) and took them to the Evercreech Forest Reserve. What a wonderful day out we all had. Not only were the tall trees absolutely amazing but the myrtles, tree ferns and the walk alongside the creek to a tall waterfall left us all feeling both grounded in a wonderful natural spot and awed by unspoiled nature. It could well have been, for us, a sacred site!

Dr John Barrett-Peacock, Rossarden

Slicing up the fuel-price pie Based on a wholesale price of $1.20 per litre Bass Strait freight 5 cpl Local freight

Wholesale cost 42.5 cpl

4 cpl Retail margin 18 cpl

Excise 39.5 cpl

GST 11 cpl

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he article on Sydney Harbour entitled ‘James, just looked what you missed’ hit the nail right on the head. It brought back memories of my first year in the Navy in 1967, walking past the Opera House and watching the workmen putting tiles on the roof; and being on the gangway on the 4am-8am watch, seeing Sydney coming slowly to life and the harbour going from almost dead quiet to the bustling waterway it becomes when the ferries start the morning commuter runs.

Cockatoo Island was then still a Naval dockyard and when the ship was in dock for maintenance, we had to be taken ashore in a workboat. This was a trip from Cockatoo to Garden Island, basically a mini harbour cruise – and the Navy paid us for the privilege of taking it!

Another strong memory was in 1971 when I returned home from seven hectic months ‘on the gunline’ off Vietnam in HMAS Perth; and the good old harbour bridge came into sight. That was when we all realised that yes, we were really home.

A lot of things about Sydney have changed since then, but the article was right – it is still the most beautiful harbour in the world.

he readers’ opinions in the last Journeys regarding clarity of fuel-price signage were unanimous and will, I hope, be conveyed to government and fuel retailers throughout our state.

Of far greater value to readers would be a pie chart showing the percentage breakdown of the average price we are paying for fuel in Tasmania. There is currently no pressure on our government to make any attempt to pass on the benefits of low-cost petroleum products to consumers. The more we are prepared to pay as motorists, the more revenue the government stands to collect.

For some years now all our LPG has been imported from overseas and delivered to Devonport and Hobart in foreign-flag ships.

The same now applies to most of the petrol and diesel delivered to Tasmania. Imported petrol and diesel is made to a generic specification with brand-name additives added at the bulk storage facilities in the north and south of the state, prior to distribution to the retail outlets.

Keep the pie chart simple. The cost of the imported product must be declared to the Federal Government – so we know the landed cost per/litre in Australia. Sea freight and storage applies if the product was transhipped within Australia; road freight and distribution within Tasmania is a cost component and we are left with the pump price on which the GST is collected.

The simple question is why are we paying upwards of twenty cents a litre more than our fellow citizens on the mainland for the same product?

Garry Gleadhill, Branxholm

Robert Gratjios, Binalong Bay

Ruth Brozek, Eaglehawk Neck

Harbour memories

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Journeys

APRIL / MAY 2016

IN OUR COMMUNITY

Wind up your window

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et another excellent ‘Why I love my car’ article by Lilly Donkers – but may I point out the possible life-threatening situation of the half-open rear window alongside the person sitting in the Subaru! In a side impact on either side, the passenger would most likely be killed. Possibly most of your members would not be aware of this danger unless they have completed an advanced driving course.

Peter Freeman

Another point to note is that a vehicle’s structural integrity is improved with all windows wound up.

Darren Moody, RACT General Manager Member Services

Giving way

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think it would be worth reminding all Journeys readers on the legal requirement for motorists to give way to pedestrians. My observation is that many drivers don’t realise that when they are turning left or right into a street, they need to give way to pedestrians waiting to cross or crossing the road on the side street.

Recently I saw an elderly motorist turning from King Street into Grosvenor Street and sounding his horn repeatedly at a small child waiting to cross Grosvenor Street – in order to stop the child crossing the road! The child had right of way. While this is the worst example of ignorance of this rule that I’ve seen recently, I endlessly see motorists breaking this particular road rule. It appears that many motorists believe that they have a blanket right of way over pedestrians, which is simply not the case in most circumstances.

Janine Pearson

I’ve copped the lot

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really have to second Stephen Nicol’s comments in Journeys about the attitude of Tasmanian drivers affecting the number of cycle tourists visiting Tasmania. Tasmania has a terrible reputation amongst cyclists. I’ve copped everything he mentioned in his article – punishment passes, where the driver deliberately tries to see how close they can get to you; abuse, even on a road where the way to overtake is clear; and having objects thrown at me. Punishment passes are very common here – really they should be considered attempted murder or assault, given the lack of consequences for the driver and the potential for death or permanent disablement for the cyclist. The police and courts, of course, don’t see it that way.

All a driver needs to say is ‘I didn’t see them’ and they are allowed to go on their way with a slap on the wrist.

Contrast this with my last cycle tour in Hokkaido, Japan, a place very similar to Tasmania. Cars and trucks are (dare I say this) embarrassingly polite. I had a truck slow down to my climbing

speed on a mountain road because it couldn’t see around the corner and pass me with two metres of clearance. Trucks coming in the opposite direction got to the left so vehicles passing me had extra room. The difference is the Japanese ‘might is not right’ traffic law.

If a bike hits a pedestrian, it’s the bike’s fault. If a car hits a bike, it’s the car’s fault. If a truck hits anything, it’s the truck’s fault. Drivers pay attention because there are consequences.

The sad thing is that it’s costing Tasmania money, lots of money.

Your average cycle tourist is typically older and well-off. They stay a long time in any one area and spend their money locally. As an example, my partner and I travelled for a month in Hokkaido, and spent somewhere in the vicinity of $5000 in that month, in small local stores, on accommodation and souvenirs. We met a lot of friendly people. We even had motorists stopping to offer us food and drink. Other cycle tourists asked us what Tasmania is like. We praised the scenery and environment but warned that the roads are risky because of the drivers. Tasmania has huge potential for cycle touring, but only if we can change the backward attitude of our motorists towards cyclists.

Trevor Grigson, New Town

Change the rule!

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love your magazine and often want to comment on this or that, but this time I decided to actually do it.

I read with interest Stephen Nicol’s ‘Opinion’ about cycling in New Zealand. Wherever you go in Tasmania you will always experience cyclists on the roads, especially on weekends. It’s a wonderful way to see Tassie and I consider the roads to be excellent compared to other states.

I’m sure the majority of road-users would be more accommodating of all cyclists if they rode in single file, because some roads are not particularly wide. Cyclists know they are permitted to ride in pairs – perhaps they like to chat while riding, but riding in pairs takes up the same space as a vehicle and even on busy and narrow roads, they stay two-abreast, regardless.

For the safety of both motorists and cyclists, I believe the law should be changed to read ‘cyclists must ride in single file’. When the subject of cyclists comes up, everyone I talk to agrees with the ‘single file’ suggestion. So why can’t the ‘powers that be’ do something about the two-abreast rule and change it to single file?

I’m sure most drivers will have thought about it when they have been behind a trail of cyclists waiting for a safe place to pass.

Shirley Jennings

Inspirational

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was really inspired by the article about the harvesting of timber from the waters of Lake Pieman. This looks to me like an ethical mode of forestry and Hydrowood leads to a perfect method of downstream processing. There are many lakes in Tasmania so it certainly looks as though Hydrowood deserves full recognition on an industrial scale.

Stuart Burgess, Huonville

THE WINNING VIEW... Garry Gleadhill wins a $50 travel voucher for his uniquely-personal memories of Sydney Harbour in the 60s and 70s. We welcome letters on any motoring or travel-related topic. Keep them brief – we reserve the right to edit. Contact us by post or email and please include your postal address. Email the editor at c.viney@ract.com.au APRIL / MAY 2016

Journeys

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IN OUR COMMUNITY

RACT – out and about Our Community Manager Will Oakley reports on some recent activities

Amelia Farrugia on stage

RACT Training & Support Consultant Tim O’Neill at work checking restraints

Checks on child restraints

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uring our free community checks in 2015, the RACT recognised a need for more advice on child restraint education around the state, including on the North West Coast, where some members told us that professional advice and guidance was sometimes not easy to access.

So we spent a week in the region, in and out of childcare centres and carparks, checking restraints and providing technical advice to interested parents. In total, we checked 126 restraints and almost 100 of them required some adjustment. Fourteen restraints were not appropriate for the age of the child – and 27 were considered unsafe.

The week’s activities culminated in the launch of child restraints once again being available for purchase at the Burnie branch, along with expert advice and technical know-how. There is now a one-stop shop in the North West for top-of-the-range child restraints, with the expertise to keep your most precious cargo safe.

Will Oakley serves Royal Act of Romance winners Shane and Eilishe Cusak at the RACT Italian café

Symphony under the Stars

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fter the last two years of the Hobart performance being wet and soggy, it was amazing for RACT to support both Hobart and Launceston shows on warm, balmy evenings. The RACT Italian cafe was there with all the trimmings, set-up exclusively for our competition winners, who had shared with us their best ‘Random Act of Romance’. While our lucky couples were wined and dined, the rest of the audience enjoyed the warm weather, Amelia Farrugia’s unbelievable voice and lots of activities for the kids. It really is one of the events on the RACT calendar that we look forward to the most.

Years Ahead presentations

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he RACT recently visited meetings of the Sandy Bay Ladies’ Probus Club, Huon Valley Council and Rosny School for Seniors to conduct our Years Ahead presentation for older drivers.

We refreshed the attendees’ road rules knowledge, talked through the changes they had seen throughout their time on the road and looked at some issues specific to older drivers. There was definitely some robust discussion!

Please contact Will Oakley on 6236 4308 if your club is interested in our Years Ahead presentation RACT Community Advisor Ali Tope with Terry Sweeney and Len Page at a Years Ahead presentation 12

Journeys

APRIL / MAY 2016

IN OUR COMMUNITY

Wildside

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ildside MTB 2016 was not for the faint-hearted as competitors spent four days in January racing mountain bikes from Cradle Mountain to Strahan.

RACT Destinations were proud sponsors of the event. Congratulations to all the brave souls who participated, particularly considering there were a few bushfires making things interesting.

At the Variety Cricket Bash

Variety Cricket Bash

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he RACT was proud to support the inaugural Variety Tasmania Cricket Bash in February at Blundstone Arena. We were treated to some impressive batting from Australian representatives Alex Doolan, Xavier Doherty and Tim Paine. Even big Matthew ‘Richo’ Richardson rolled his arm over. The RACT had lots to keep the kids amused with giveaways, games and a chance to win a bat signed by the whole Hobart Hurricanes squad.

The vehicle of a Wildside participant (Darren, an RACQ member) broke down near Queenstown on the way to the race start. Knowing a bit about cars, Darren realised that he’d done an oil line and without transport to and from the start and finish lines of the race, he thought his Wildside 2016 might be over. He contacted the RACQ who put him in touch with RACT Roadside.

Our Queenstown agent John Dilger was soon on the scene. To enable Darren to continue in the race, John gave him the keys to his personal ute to ensure he made it to the start line. Darren couldn’t believe it – he commented that it was the best service he’s ever received and said that John deserves special recognition. Great work John!

Taking our concerns to Canberra I

n early March, RACT President Peter Joyce and CEO Harvey Lennon held meetings in Canberra with several Tasmanian federal parliamentarians, to impress on them a range of issues of concern to our members. Senator Jacqui Lambie and Senator the Hon. Richard Colbeck (Minister for Tourism and International Education and Minister Assisting the Minister for Trade and Investment) were among those we met.

Issues discussed included the ongoing commitment to improve the Midland Highway to an Australian Road Research Board 3-star safety rating. Also discussed was the need for commitment to a replacement Bridgewater Bridge. Hobart congestion was another topical issue and we discussed the need for a longer-term strategy to reduce the load on the Davey-Macquarie Streets couplet. Safety concerns about a number of key tourism roads around Tasmania was also raised, reiterating key messages highlighted in the RACT’s State Government submission.

We took the opportunity to raise concern about Tasmania and Australia’s performance against the 10 year road safety target.

Too many people still die on our roads and many more suffer significant trauma but as yet there is no consistent measure of road trauma numbers across Australian states.

Improvements will come from safer roads, safer vehicles and safer drivers. On that last point, MPs were asked to support ongoing funding for Keys2Drive, the very successful program for learner drivers and their parents, coordinated by the Australian Automobile Association, the peak body of national motoring clubs, including the RACT. APRIL / MAY 2016

Journeys

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WANDERLUST

‘Taxi!’

Writer and traveller Philippa Williams recalls ten memorable rides

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Journeys

APRIL / MAY 2016

WANDERLUST

Opposite page; Admiralty Arch, London; This page from left; Marienplatz Town Hall in Munich, Germany; Ali Qapu Palace in Isfahan, New Delhi taxi stop

Copenhagen, Denmark

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he cabbie probes in a punctuated Cockney accent: ‘You wot? An Aussie, never ’ad a look at Captain Cook? Blimey!’ He turns off the meter. We take a sharp detour down The Mall towards the great navigator’s statue near Admiralty Arch. Staged? Possibly. But this proud Londoner in his gleaming black cab won the day. A butcher’s hook it is!

look across the frozen harbour to the Opera House and hail a taxi. My driver is a softly-spoken Iraqi immigrant. Worried for this family, he sees hope in the recent decrease of suicide bombings. On the Opera House stage, Cho-Cho-San’s anguish is playing out in Madame Butterfly. My Iraqi friend struggles with his, every single day.

Munich, Germany

Warsaw, Poland

London, United Kingdom

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arrive during a snowstorm. Juggernauts choke the autobahn. The driver’s GPS indicates red for massive delays. ‘Scheiße,’ she mutters under her breath. ‘You go to Dorfen?’ I reply timidly ‘Yes, to see my nephew.’ Her bluntness sends a shiver through me: ‘Now that’s a place you don’t need to see before you die.’

New York, USA

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y driver from JFK proudly tells me about his friends who have travelled to Australia and returned unscathed. ‘You’d never get me there with all those spiders,’ he says.

I tell him how rare it is to actually see a deadly spider. He snorts. ‘OK, that’s exactly the problem! You don’t see them!’

Avignon, France

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ugging a taxi driver is not what I would recommend to any traveller, anywhere in the world – and it’s something I’ve only done once. But when a strike by train workers cripples Avignon, my driver is determined to conquer la circulation and deliver me to my destination. Emotionally exhausted, our au revoir is uninhibited.

New Delhi, India

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quished into an under-powered Polski Fiat 126p (maluch, ‘the little one’) I try not to laugh. The distance between the driver’s head and mine is microscopic. The smell of bigos stew, Poland’s national dish – sauerkraut, sausage, garlic – fills the cabin.

Idle chatter is inappropriate and he plants his foot to the floor. We surge, then resting back, we jiggle along the cobbled streets.

Isfahan, Iran

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rammed into a taxi with locals, a fight breaks out between the driver and another female passenger over how much I am charged. My resolute compatriot wrestles my money back from the driver and insists on paying the fare of about 10c instead of the exorbitant $2.00 I was originally touted.

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Port Vila, Vanuatu

Sydney, Australia

A

eavy fog lies on the highway from the airport. My life sits perilously in the hands of a maniac who insists on driving at high speed, despite the poor visibility. My attempts to slow the driver are useless – until a sacred cow meanders across the road and brings us to a grinding, blessed halt. as we power C along the Eastern Distributor to Sydney Airport. Stunned by thethunder cacophony of music armina Burana’s ‘O Fortuna!’ is resonating through the cab like

I mistakenly ask the driver: ‘Bizet?’ Exasperated, he replies dismissively ‘Carl Orff.’ I continue to listen, in silence.

Bible, a bag of groceries and the driver’s wife set the tone for this organic taxi ride in a typical Melanesian minibus. At the back of the vehicle I hear giggling as two smiling faces appear and burst into laughter. I can’t help feeling that I’ve interrupted a family outing.

APRIL / MAY 2016

Journeys

15

WANDERLUST

Shore shots

16

Greg Dowling

Greg Dowling

PGA Australia member and freelance writer Greg Dowling plays two new King Island courses

Journeys

APRIL / MAY 2016

Greg Dowling

WANDERLUST

ay dawns bright on King Island. My first stop is the bakery at Currie to grab a freshly-baked beef pie. I tuck in eagerly before driving to Cape Wickham and I can feel my energy levels rising. I was hoping this would happen, because the golf challenge that lies ahead will surely test me physically as well as mentally.

Signposts direct me along a mixture of gravel and sealed roads and within 30 minutes I reach a spectacular site in a remote northern area of the island. I know that most great links courses across the world have a handful of holes routed along the coastline – I discover over the next three hours that Cape Wickham Links has eight or nine!

The score card tells me that the par is 72 from the plates, with a total course distance of around 6600 metres, so I realise that playing from the back tees will stretch me. Irrespective of wind direction, the opening hole is quite intimidating, with a long drop to the beach on the right. Given the conditions, I have to aim slightly over the water and hope my ball will swing back late as it slows down. My muscles seem a little tight so I tell myself ‘Don’t worry – it’s all in your head.’ Swing, bang – I make solid contact, the ball lands on the fairway and we’re off and running.

The round seems to flow really well now that I’m in among the dunes and soon I’m on the back nine, with the finishing stretch ahead. My score is holding up pretty well and my goal now is to maintain intensity. The 16th is not far from Cape Wickham Lighthouse, with a tilted fairway that sits right along the coast. It’s rated the hardest hole on the course and with good reason. I make bogey. No worries. The last hole is amazing, with the tee set right next to the beach. I take dead aim across the sandy bay but bite off more than I can chew. The design has sucked me in and a lapse in concentration didn’t help either, so I make my way on to the sand (lucky the tide was low) and fire a recovery back toward the green.

I really want to par this hole, but my chip isn’t great and my putt is hard to read. I roll the ball at the right edge, it catches a piece of the cup and drops in. In golf, they call that dodging a bullet!

Another pie is next on the agenda but by the time I get back to Currie, they’re sold out. An excellent back-up plan is the pub.

I choose fish and chips, washed down with a stubby of local beer.

After lunch I head to Ocean Dunes, the other of the two new courses on King Island. Much closer to town, some of the holes of this new layout are constructed along about two kilometres

Andrew Wilson

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Opposite page: Ocean Dunes’ rolling fairways and spectacular ocean frontage; This page: Cape Wickham Links

of spectacular ocean frontage. The rest of the holes are built among the dunes further inland. The course gets your attention immediately with a stunning downhill par five that incorporates a massive sand blowout as your aiming point for the tee-shot.

‘Commit to the shot and be confident,’ I tell myself. And it works. I make the short walk to the second tee to assess a short par four that heads south along the rocky coastline beside the ocean. And as I’m soon to learn, coming up with the right answers to some difficult questions is what this course is all about.

I have to select the right line on blind shots, decide whether to take the high or low-road bisecting some fairways, lay-up or take on carries, pick the right club on approaches to bent-grass greens (often with two-tiers and plateaus) and gauge the effect of the wind.

My drive up and over the ridge on the 12th hole reaches the fairway plateau. ‘What’s over the other side?’ I wonder, while walking excitedly up the hill. Well, there is a sand dune in view across the flattish landscape and below it is an amazing double-green complex shared with the 15th – a design triumph, providing so many options in approach shot.

The next two holes are up higher in perfect golf terrain, really appealing, in particular the par-three 14th, measuring, just 105 metres but with a drop in elevation of close to 20 metres. This is a tiny hole that’s big on inspiration.

Both Cape Wickham and Ocean Dunes are terrific assets for Tasmanian and Australian golf. They will inevitably be compared, yet will have to work together to create a destination worthy of earning a spot on the list of ‘must-go’ golfing locations.

Where will they ultimately rank on the list of the world’s best courses? Only time will tell.

APRIL / MAY 2016

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LIFE ON THE MOVE

Hyundai Elantra

HE SAYS Darren Moody

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hen released in 2007, the i30 signalled the end of cheap and cheerful cars for Hyundai. The i30 was a quality offering, featuring reasonable driving dynamics not seen before in the Hyundai brand, improved quality in terms of build and finish and an industry-leading warranty at the time, while still offering great value for money.

The release of the new Elantra in 2016 validates all that work and brand-building.

I think it’s fair to say that Hyundai has continued to lift the bar in terms of what they have delivered on every new model – and no more is this evident than in the latest Elantra. This new car has a feel of premium about it, even though it sits in the The release of the small-car category – and with a drive-away price of less than $30,000 for the top-spec model, there is plenty of new Elantra in 2016 value available. validates all that work The Australian-based engineering team has gone to and brand-building. work on the suspension, producing a relatively firm but compliant ride. Underlying their work is a more rigid chassis, thanks to increased use of high-strength steel and aerospace adhesives. Changes have also been made to the front sub-frame, suspension arms and bushes, along with revised geometry for the torsion beam rear suspension.

Under the bonnet, the 1.8L engine has been replaced with a new 112kW 197Nm 2.0L, which is slightly up in terms of power and torque over the old unit. Fuel consumption is listed as 7.1L/100km on the combined cycle. On a good city-country run I managed pretty close to that number. The entry-level Active gets a six-speed manual as standard or an optional six-speed auto. Elite spec is an auto-only affair.

Occupants are treated to a quiet interior, with engine and road noise well-suppressed.

The leather-appointed seats in our Elite spec were a little flat on the base, but offered excellent support around the hips and waist. New Elantra is bigger everywhere inside, being able to accommodate my ample frame in the driver’s seat, with still more than enough room for an averaged-sized adult sitting behind me.

If I had a gripe with the new Elantra (and yes I know it is a First-World problem) it is that new car smell. It’s part of the experience of shelling out your hard-earned on a new car!

Hyundai just hasn’t nailed that yet. I’m not sure if it’s the plastics, carpets or the glue used in the build process – it just doesn’t do it for me.

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APRIL / MAY 2016

LIFE ON THE MOVE

SHE SAYS Alice Agnew

Hi, I’m Alice – I’m new to He says, She says and I’m very excited to have had the opportunity to drive the sixthgeneration Hyundai Elantra.

One thing you’ll get to know about me is my love of Tassie – it’s a great place to explore, especially behind the wheel. Darren and I look forward to sharing many more of our new car reviews with you – keep an eye out for our report on the lovely little Mazda MX-5 in the June/July issue of Journeys!

F

or me, ease of interaction with the car – the ‘whole car experience’ – is the important thing, so unlike some vehicles, I found the control functions were a breeze to navigate – in fact this is possibly Hyundai’s most cohesive dash layout to date, with a combination of touch screen and logical, simple button access rather than a rotary dial favoured by some others.

Being able to chat with Siri was a real life-saver, especially when I was stuck in traffic (and hey, we’ve all been there lately!) The car’s integration with my iPhone was incredible – both Elantra variants have the ability to stream music and allow access to your phone through Apple CarPlay. I loved the dual-zone climate control that can individualise the temperature for both driver and passenger (his and hers). I can’t tell you the number of arguments this is going to save!

After moving less than ten metres in ten minutes in congested traffic, I’m happy to report that the leather-appointed seats are nearly as comfy as my couch at home. The Elantra is a very comfortable ride on the road and the electric power steering is effortless. I drove from one end of the state to the other and even on the longer journeys, the seats impressed me.

Who likes driving in the rain? I don’t – and day two on test, it bucketed down! These were less than ideal driving conditions but the Elantra stepped up and the way it responded and handled was reassuring and encouraging – that’s something I don’t always feel in my own car. With the assurance of many safety systems including six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC) and the Traction Control System (TCS) amongst a suite of standard equipment, it’s clear that safety is a strong focus for Hyundai and from my experience in these conditions it certainly makes a noticeable difference.

The Elite spec delivered a very similar driving experience to the entry level, however as the title implies, it delivers a greater attention to detail and an even greater display of integration technology. What does that mean? It creates a rather chivalrous experience – it’s like dating a gentleman. The Elite is fitted with proximity sensors, fold-out mirrors and courtesy lights on the door handles that activated as I approached, with the keys in my pocket.

Reversing camera and parking sensors, keyless entry and start, auto-sensing headlights and wipers and LED running lights were also stand-out features. Even the boot pops open on approach!

I wasn’t expecting this and my first experience was startling.

With my arms full of groceries a few days later, I warmed to the idea – but sometimes I like to be in control and I would have liked the opportunity to turn this feature off.

So, which end of the shelf does this one sit? At $21,490 plus on road costs, the entry-level Active with a six-speed manual (auto will add $2300) is value for money for those looking for a comfortable ride with a reasonable price tag. The Elite, only in auto, is available at $26,490 plus on road costs.

FINANCE IT WITH US! RACT Car Loans offer competitive rates, low fees, great service and minimum hassle – with discounted interest rates for RACT members. Get fast, over-the-phone pre-approval, so you can bargain to your best advantage, knowing how much you have to spend. Call 13 27 22 or apply online at www.ract.com.au APRIL / MAY 2016

Journeys

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RACT TRAVEL MEMBER BENEFITS 5% OFF*

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Conditions: Our Low Price Promise is more than a marketing promise, it’s our promise to you our RACT member that at the time of booking (valid for new bookings only), subject to normal holiday availability and based on Australian registered businesses and websites and for travel departing from an Australian Port, we promise to beat any valid available holiday quote presented in writing for the same airline, cruiseline, tour operator and departure date in the same cabin/grade/fare type/share basis/ booking class/code. Available means that the other quote is current, confirmed in writing, genuine and available to be booked at the time you present it to us. If the quoted holiday content is not available, we will offer you the best available alternative that will suit your requirements. Fares available due to membership of a group or corporate entity or subscription to a closed user group, including time share membership offers, are excluded. In the unlikely event that we cannot match a quoted price on your international holiday we will pay for you (RACT Member) to fly free to Sydney or Melbourne to meet your flight.

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Conditions Apply: *You must be an RACT Member and present a current Membership card, see referenced page for more details and full terms and conditions. RACT Travel Pty Ltd. ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS No. A11470.

LIFE ON THE MOVE

Congratulations Scott, you’re a sparky

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ACT Patroller Scott Hayne has recently completed an impressive double, achieving his second Certificate III trade qualification.

More than 20 years after qualifying as a mechanic with a Cert. III Automotive Light Vehicle ticket, he studied part-time for three years and has successfully finished the TAS TAFE course to earn his Cert. III in Automotive Electrical Technology.

TAS TAFE teacher Michael Badenach said that Scott’s commitment to the coursework was impressive, especially since he was completing the program in his own time. Scott praised the flexibility of TAS TAFE staff, which was the key to fitting the training in around his commitments to RACT Roadside patrols.

‘Unfortunately we don’t have a TAS TAFE award for ‘Old’ Apprentice of the Year,’ Michael told Journeys. ‘But if we did, I reckon it would have Scott Hayne’s name on it.’

APRIL / MAY 2016

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LIFE ON THE MOVE

FIRST

Darren Moody

Mazda BT50

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he BT50 received a mid-life upgrade late last year, and luckily for me an XTR Freestyle 4x4 turned up on press fleet right on cue for a Christmas-New Year break.

The Freestyle cab seats four, with access to the rear seats made easy thanks to a small forward-opening half door – however in terms of comfort and space, the rear seats are short-term only, which worked out well, because for the first time in nineteen years my wife and I were heading for a kid-free holiday.

The Freestyle cab provides an additional 298mm in the ute tray, making it considerably more practical than a dual-cab. The space easily accommodated my big cooler box, BBQ and a whole host of things you take on holidays and never use. Also luckily for me the BT50 came fitted with a towbar, allowing me to hook on a boat.

Suspension and steering are largely unchanged in the upgrade, which meant the BT50 was still very firm, if not just a little bouncy on poor roads. Steering also remains hydraulically-assisted, so parking and low-speed steering effort is a little higher, but once up and running, it provides relatively direct input and reasonable feedback.

While the BT50 retains its five-star ANCAP rating, it has missed out on a raft of safetyassist technologies including adaptive cruise control, forward-collision alert, lane-keep assist, lane-departure warning and driver-impairment monitoring, all of which are available on the shared platform of the Ford Ranger.

The BT50 also shares drivetrains with the Ranger – the gutsy 3.2l five-cylinder turbo diesel coupled to a six-speed auto is the best in the business when it comes to ‘driveability’, carrying a load or towing. I had 750kg of dirt in the back at one point and the only reason I knew it was there was because the ride quality improved remarkably – understandable, given that it’s designed to carry a load.

Externally, the front bumper and grill are new and in my view are a significant improvement over the previous model. Tail lights and rear-end treatment are also updated. Inside, the XTR is a step up on the previous model in terms of infotainment and connectivity. A new 7.8” touch screen display incorporates reversing camera and sat-nav as standard equipment, but also allows the option of Hema off-road mapping.

Also standard on this variant are 17’ alloys, front fog lamps, auto headlights, rain-sensing wipers, polished side steps, dual-zone climate control and tailgate lock. The one option box 22

Journeys

APRIL / MAY 2016

I would tick is a tub liner. I managed to lose a bit of paint out of the tray (sorry Mazda) when shovelling out my load of dirt.

The XTR Freestyle 4x4 auto is going to cost you around $50,000 plus on road costs. This sits below equivalent Ford and Toyota offerings, while providing more in terms of standard kit, so it’s well worth consideration.

LIFE ON THE MOVE

DRIVES

Audi R8

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ome days are better than others in my job, but they don’t come much better than being invited to drive the second generation of Audi’s iconic R8 supercar. Well, somebody has to do it, so I undertook the task in the interests of research!

The latest R8 has dropped the V8 engine option in favour of a 5.2L V10-only proposition, in two states of tune. The entry- level R8 has 397kW and 540Nm and the V10 Plus has 449kW (that’s over 600HP) and 560Nm. Both are coupled to a lightning-fast shifting seven-speed DSG auto. Despite increased power and torque over the previous model, fuel economy has improved by up to 13% thanks to cylinder on-demand, transmission coasting and stop-start functionality. Drive is to all wheels via a newly-designed Quattro drive system with an electro-hydraulically activated multi-plate clutch front axle – rear drive is via a mechanical limited-slip diff. Brakes on the V10 Plus are carbon-fibre ceramic, meaning they pull up in a heartbeat and can take some punishment. Grip is taken care of via large rubber on 20” alloys.

Inside, you immediately notice the Audi build quality. Leather, aluminium and carbonfibre finishes abound. The flat-bottomed, multi-function steering wheel was littered with functional buttons to enhance your drive experience. A big red start/stop button, another for amping the volume on the addictive exhaust note, Audi Drive-Select allowing you to choose between Comfort, Auto, Dynamic and Individual for altered steering, engine and transmission responses, plus one final button called Performance Mode, which really lets you be in charge, with the electronic brains looking after where the drive should be delivered via the new front diff and you in full control of the wheel and the engine.

Finally, the instrument cluster is Audi’s new virtual cockpit, first seen on the TT launched last year – it allows you to set the most appropriate view for your current situation.

The kerb weight of the Audi space frame on the V10 Plus is only 1555kg, thanks to a combination of aluminium and carbon fibre-reinforced polymer (CFRP), making it exceptionally light and extremely rigid, 40% more so than the previous model. These materials also extend to internal and external panels and fittings.

And the drive? Mind-blowing – zero to 100km/h in 3.2 seconds and not much more from 100 to zero. The R8’s ability to hang on, turn in, almost steering on the throttle in

corners plus the audible pleasure from the screaming V10 – I’m still trying to wipe the smile off!

For the record, all driving was carried out at Sydney Motorsport Park and all fifteen R8s were imported as left-hand drive – Australian production vehicles don’t go on sale until May. APRIL / MAY 2016

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Advertorial www.buildingourfuture.gov.au

Building our future

Bringing you closer to where you want to be.

Duplication between Birralee Road and Exton, Bass Highway, funded under the Infrastructure Investment Programme.

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HE Australian Government is investing $50 billion in thousands of road and rail projects around Australia under its Infrastructure Investment Programme.

Investing in better road and rail connections will make it easier for freight to move across Australia—whether it is around our cities, our regions or within states and territories. This will deliver economic benefits by ensuring the economy remains competitive and goods can move effectively.

Better roads and railways will also deliver social benefits by helping people to travel on safer roads, with less traffic congestion and faster travel times.

In Tasmania, this includes the Perth to Breadalbane Duplication, which has just started construction. This duplication is receiving a $34 million investment from the Australian Government, as part of its $400 million commitment to the Midland Highway Upgrade.

The Bass Highway duplication between Birralee Road and Exton is the first project under the Australian Government’s National Highway Upgrade Programme to commence construction. The project is receiving $7.68 million in Australian Government funding.

The revitalisation of Tasmania’s freight rail will also start construction this year, with a $59.8 million investment from the Australian Government. This revitalisation will help reduce the number of trucks on Tasmania’s roads , and help get goods from Tasmania’s quarries and mills to its ports.

Adding to this picture is the $15 million upgrade of the access ramps from the East Derwent Highway to theTasman Highway at Rosny, which has just completed. If you look at the bigger picture, it is easy to see how the Australian Government is building now for a safer, less congested future.

This record breaking investment is all part of how the Australian Government is

setting Australia up for a more competitive future, with projects both big and small.

This includes $500 million in funding to the life-saving Black Spot Programme, as well as $2.1 billion being delivered for local road projects through the Roads to Recovery Programme.

Whether it is getting goods to market faster or getting you home on time, in partnership with state and territory governments, the Australian Government is Building Our Future.

There are over 1,000 projects under construction now, so for more information and to find out about what projects are happening close to you visit: www.buildingourfuture.gov.au Authorised by the Australian Government, Capital Hill, Canberra.

Printed by Hannanprint Victoria, 504-520 Princes Highway, Noble Park North, Victoria 3174.

LIFE ON THE MOVE

Inside the RACT Mobile Service Centre Lilly Donkers

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n the basement carpark of RACT House I meet RACT Training & Support Consultant Tim O’Neill as he reverses the new Mobile Service Centre van into its parking spot. I’ve heard about this latest addition to the RACT’s range of services – a transportable hub from which to run, amongst other things, road safety and advice campaigns. It’s a way for us to reach further out, especially into regional and country areas of Tasmania, to get in touch with people who may not find it easy to get to an RACT branch.

Tim is genuinely passionate about the Mobile Service Centre.

‘We can use it to respond to emergency events, such as bushfire or flood crisis points, by setting it up as a mobile insurance claim centre,’ he says. ‘At the moment we are out and about helping people install approved and appropriate child restraints. We also set up at Clarence High School recently for the ‘Rule of Thumb’ campaign launch where we taught young people the danger of texting and driving. All the students signed a pledge (by thumb print!) that they would never text while driving – it was brilliant!’

Tim gives me a tour of the vehicle – it is clearly designed for anything and everything, with desk space, wifi internet access, coffee machine and an awning that forms a sheltered space for people to sit and chat. It’s a great idea and already many people have benefited from it.

‘It’s about making contact with more people and being more helpful,’ Tim says. ‘It’s relatively new to the RACT family and we’re excited to see what it achieves in the future.’

The RACT’s Mobile Service Centre is supported by a grant from the Federation Internationale de l’Autmobile.

Are your employees safe at work?

The Business Safety Essentials workshop was a great refresher course and highlighted the areas of driving that we sometimes take for granted.

Stuart Lee, Motor Vehicle A ssessor I have always considered myself to be an above-average driver.

This course helped me realise that this is a very naive view. Well worth attending, for a newer driver just learning the ropes or as a refresher course for an old-hat who thinks they know it all.

Sarah Whitmore, E xecutive A ssistant

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he RACT’s Business Safety Essentials workshop provides business owners and fleet managers with an education and assessment solution for employees and contractors who not only drive for work, but also commute to and from the workplace.

The two-hour workshop increases knowledge of safe driving techniques and acceptable driver behaviour in everyday situations.

I thoroughly enjoyed the workshop. It highlighted the dangers we face every day on the road and gave me some useful strategies for avoiding them. It serves as a timely reminder to stay aware and not become complacent and that road rules are in place for a reason.

C arol Fisher, Training & Compliance Officer, with RACT Motoring Services Manager Peter Gillon This workshop certainly made me think of my driving practices, assuming or taking for granted we will be safe on the road, and arrive home every day after the work day is a naive view. I thank my workplace for engaging RACT and giving me and my colleagues a wake-up call.

Sam Woodham, Healthcare A ssistant

For details and to make a booking for the next course, please contact RACT Motoring Services Manager Peter Gillon on 0407 692 403.

This is a must for all businesses that have employees who drive regularly as an extension of the workplace. As a Fleet Manager it’s my responsibility to make sure staff are prepared, up to date and supported in this space. The workshop highlighted that message loud and clear. I thoroughly recommend it.

Tony Gough, Fleet Manager APRIL / MAY 2016

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LIFE ON THE MOVE

Australia’s Best The winners Cars 2015-16 Best Micro Car Mitsubishi Mirage ES

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he Australia’s Best Cars awards program pools the resources, expertise and experience of all Australian motoring clubs. Judges from every club examine not just the year’s new releases but all popular vehicles on the market.

For the full list of winners and finalists, including judges’ notes and scores across all categories, visit www.australiasbestcars. com.au. The Australia’s Best Cars magazine is available in RACT branches now for $5.95 (members) or $9.95 (non-members).

Best Light Car Hyundai Accent Active Best Small Car under $35K Hyundai i30 Active Best Small Car over $35K BMW 1 Series 118i Sport Line Best Medium Car under $50K Kia Optima GT Best Medium Car over $50K Mercedes-Benz C200 Best Large Car under $70K Hyundai Genesis Best Family Wagon Kia Sorento SLi 2WD

A note on ‘defeat devices’

Best Sports Car under $50K Ford Focus ST

A factor in determining entrants for this year’s program has been the use of so-called ‘defeat devices’ to evade clean-air standards in Volkswagen Group vehicles worldwide. Given ABC’s strict standards, judges were unable to accurately or fairly assess VW Group vehicles against each criterion. So no Volkswagen, Audi or Skoda vehicles were able to be considered in the program.

Best Sports Car $50-$100K Mercedes-Benz A45 AMG Best Small 2WD SUV under $35K Mazda CX-3 Maxx Best AWD SUV under $50K Subaru Outback 2.5i Premium Best AWD SUV $50-65K Kia Sorento Platinum Best AWD SUV $65-$125K Volvo XC90 Inscription D5 Best 4x4 Dual Cab Ute Toyota Hilux SR5

Atrium, which will be the perfect place to relax in front of the

News from the RACT-RACV Hobart Apartment Hotel T

he redevelopment of our Hobart Apartment Hotel is well under way, and we will be unveiling the new world-class facilities for members and guests later in the year.

The first thing you will notice is a stylish and welcoming reception area on Collins Street, making it easy to enter the hotel. The new lift and feature staircase will take members to the light-filled

fireplace and under a feature glass ceiling.

We’re excited about the fully-redeveloped Charcoal restaurant, which will provide floor-to-ceiling windows to Collins Street and an open-plan design that allows guests to enjoy the theatre of the kitchen. Head Chef Scott Monaghan will be taking the opportunity to launch a new menu that is sure to delight members staying at the hotel or just dropping in for a meal.

People shopping or working in the city will love the new funky bar with its own Collins Street entrance. The heritage-listed Cascade House is being fully renovated to become a fantastic spot for after-work drinks or to meet friends before dinner.

There’s even more in other areas of the hotel, with a new gymnasium, Executive Lounge on the upper floor of Cascade House, and upgraded function spaces catering for everything from board meetings through to conferences and weddings.

The Apartment Hotel is open throughout the redevelopment, with Hotel Manager Shelley Richards and her team continuing to provide outstanding service and accommodation in the heart of Hobart.

RACT members can enjoy 25% off regular accommodation rates every day of the year, with member prices from only $124 per night for two people. You can book by visiting ract.com.au or calling the hotel on 6270 8600 APRIL / MAY 2016

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LIFE ON THE MOVE

Meet Maddie the mechanic Chris Viney

I

t was one of those happy coincidences that writers love. I had jumped into a taxi to escape a summer storm. Paul the cabbie, his Blues Brothers black fedora at a jaunty angle, was chatty. By the end of the ride, I’d learned that he was the proud father of one of Tasmania’s very small number of young female motor mechanics.

It sounded like a story for Journeys and I gave Paul my business card.

‘Hi, I’m Maddie,’ said a voice on the phone next day. ‘I believe you’ve been talking to my Dad.’ So there I was in Claremont, at the BP Wyndham Road servo, meeting 21 year-old Maddie Hollick and hearing how she found her way into such a male-dominated industry.

‘I did my apprenticeship with Mechanic To You,’ Maddie said.

‘We were based in Derwent Park, but as mobile mechanics, we went everywhere. Being a girl was no big deal – I just got on with the job and the guys I worked with were fine. I’ve been here at Claremont since last October and I’m hoping to complete my apprenticeship and get my ticket this year.’

Maddie’s interest in things mechanical was inspired by her father, a motorcycle enthusiast.

‘I used to help him service his bikes, so I started learning my trade pretty early,’ she said. ‘It was just me and Dad – I didn’t have a brother to get in the way.’ Maddie smiled cheekily. ‘And if I had, he probably would have been a ballet dancer.’

Away from the workshop, Maddie likes racing go karts, getting off-road in her own 75-series LandCruiser and playing a round of golf with her old man. And she’s also happy to stay on the tools, working with her partner Adam on his 80-Series Cruiser, which they plan to drive to Cape York later this year.

‘Adam knows his stuff,’ she says. ‘He recently rebuilt a Holden Monaro and we’ve done a lot of work together on the LandCruiser, getting it ready for the trip.’

If you’re passing through Claremont, call in to BP Wyndham Road and say hi to the girl with a smile on her face – and a spanner in her hand.

PANEL BEATING

CHASSIS WORK

SPRAY PAINTING

Measure and alignment system from Finland

Two pack spray and bake booth

107 Mornington Road Mornington Telephone 6244 4732 Facsimile 6244 3845 APRIL / MAY 2016

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The dangers of inattention while driving is a topic widely discussed in the public sphere, and for good reason.

According to the Road Safety Advisory Council, driver distraction and inattention contributed to the deaths of 223 people and 1289 serious injuries on Tasmanian roads between 1993 and 2013.

We all remember the confronting television advertisements where the driver looks down at their phone for two seconds and subsequently is unable to break in time before crashing.

The truth is, that is just how easy it is for a moment’s inattention to cause a serious injury, or worst case, death.

If you are distracted for just two seconds it could potentially double the distance it takes you to stop, depending on your speed. If you are in your car travelling at 60 kilometres per hour and you are distracted for two seconds, you will cover 33 metres in the time you are looking away. If for any reason you are required to break suddenly, due to your inattention, you will lose up to 33 metres during which you could have begun to break.

Mobile phone use while driving puts the driver, passengers and other road users at a high risk of crashing and it is particularly associated with run-off-road crashes and rear-end crashes. It can cause you to wander out of your lane, unintentionally speed up or slow down, misjudge gaps in traffic, have a slower reaction time and be generally less aware of other traffic, pedestrians and hazards.

Each year, RACT Insurance conducts a surveyy whe where ere e we ask Tasmanians about their attitudes towards ards home safety, preparing for storms and fires, among mon ng other topics.

Over the past few years, RACT Insurance has surveyed Tasmanians about their driving habits ts with a particular focus on speeding and distractions. ctio onss.

Overall, RACT Insurance’s research shows the e number of people using mobile phones while d driving riving g has decreased since last year, from 11 per cent down nt do own to 3 per cent.

As a population as a whole, we are obviously taking steps in the right direction in becoming mo more ore e responsible with our mobile phone use in the ccar and ar a nd taking heed of the messages from the Road Safety afetty Advisory Council and Tasmania Police.

However over the years, the 18-29 year old age ge group has continually recorded the highest number off umbe er o people who admitted to checking emails and/or text or te extt messages while driving.

What makes this even more concerning is thatt our research also shows that over a fifth of 18-29 8-29 year old surveyed also admit to regularly driving ng over the speed limit while 13% said they were easily distracted by items in the car such as radio, adio,, GPS or mobile phone.

According to figures from the Road Safety Advisory Council, six per cent of Tasmanians a are re aged between 17 and 25 however this age group oup accounts for 28 per cent of serious casualties recorded in Tasmania. This age group is six times mes more likely of being involved in a serious road cr ccrash, cras ras a h, resulting in a serious injury or death, than the rrest esst e of the population.

From our research, it seems that the messaging and campaigning by the Road Safety Advisory Council and Tasmania Police has been extremely successful. While the percentage of 18-29 year olds who admit to regularly checking their mobile phones for emails and text messages has fallen significantly over since the survey was conducted in October 2014 from 26 per cent down to 12 per cent, there is still scope to better educate 18-29 year old on the dangers of inattention.

Inattention is not solely related to the radio, GPS or mobile phone. Eating or drinking, adjusting climate controls, paying attention to children or other passengers, smoking and even daydreaming are all as significant distractions as checking you mobile phone.

After years of driving, it may seem like a simple task to get from A to B but there is a real difference between driving and safe driving. Safe driving does take effort, concentration and the self-control to let yourself become distracted. Before you begin your journey, take a moment to organise yourself and your car so that there is no need to engage with anything other than the road during your trip. If it is absolutely necessary to change the air-conditioning or the program the GPS, wait until you have come to a complete stop and it is safe to do so. If you don’t have a hands-free device or you phone connected through your car, pull over, then make your call.

Your safety, the safety of your passengers and that of the drivers and pedestrians around you is far more important than that phone call or text message.

INSURANCE by

LIFE ON THE MOVE

A day in the life of an RACT patroller

What does a sunny Wednesday in Hobart look like through the eyes of an RACT Roadside patroller? Lilly Donkers tags along with Julian McGarry to find out.

Tassie’s best prices on mobility equipment Statewide delivery available

Cnr Sunderland Street & Derwent Park Road Moonah, 7009 P: (03) 6273 8300 E: hobart@walkonwheels.net.au W: www.walkonwheelstasmania.com.au

STAIRLIFT SALES TASMANIA Tasmania’s only stairlift specialist • • • •

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Tasmania’s Acorn specialist Statewide installation and service Indoor and outdoor Straight lifts can be installed within 24 hours

Journeys

APRIL / MAY 2016

P: 1300 919 406 (local call cost) or (03) 6272 2966 E: info@stairliftsalestasmania.com.au W: www.stairliftstasmania.com.au

LIFE ON THE MOVE

12:29pm

1pm

Jules rocks up to RACT House in a shiny yellow Roadside van. He’s ready for another day of Roadside rescues, with hi-visibility gear on and his van stocked with everything from spare batteries and break-in tools to colouring-in sheets and crayons for waiting kids.

‘We provide everything except a hand-towel and underpants!’ says Jules, throwing me a hi-vis vest. As I’m putting on the pimpin’ vest, a red Volkswagen pulls into the RACT car-park, hot on Jules’s tail.

The driver jumps out and waves Jules over.

‘Hey mate,’ Todd says. ‘I followed you down the road. I’ve got a branch stuck under the car. It’s making a shocking noise – reckon you can wrench it out?’

On hands and knees, Jules reaches under the vehicle and hauls out the offending branch. Look, branch is probably pushing it – it’s an oversized twig at most – but the job is done and the ‘shocking noise’ is cured.

Todd tells me proudly that he has been a member for, ‘Oh, years and years!’ Jules and Todd have a good laugh at the branch and happily pose for a photo.

The fancy electronic contraption on Jules’s dashboard beeps and flashes up the location of his next job – Battery Point. We find Helen and her Nissan Pulsar with the bonnet up, parked by a gorgeous heritage building. Jules efficiently replaces Helen’s battery then Helen and her son spend some time giving us an intriguing history lesson on the beautiful building behind them. It’s Beaumaris House, the original location of the Beaumaris Zoo. Jules glances in the rear-view mirror as we drive away. Helen is smiling and waving us off.

‘I love helping people,’ Jules says. ‘The best thing about this job is putting a smile on peoples’ faces.’

He turns the yellow van towards North Hobart.

‘You have to keep an open mind,’ Jules grins.

‘You just never know what’s coming next.’

1:55pm Jules replaces a battery in John’s van (‘Normally I just get a bunch of mates to push-start it but I think it’s time to get a new one!’) then sorts out Susan’s flat tyre in Kingston. Susan’s dog Poppy seems amused by the extra action at the end of her walk along the beach.

Opposite: Checking out Shanti’s radiator waterfall. This page, clockwise from top left: Todd and Jules with the offending branch; Susan’s Beaumaris rescue; shredded, from Jules’s album of horrors; a new battery for John; Poppy the dog, Susan and Jules after the flat tyre; the beeping, flashing contraption Photos: Lilly Donkers

3:30pm Shanti’s Subaru Outback has overheated on the Channel Highway, en route to an appointment in Hobart. Jules pours in two litres of water but can’t see a leak, so he pulls out a pump, applies a bit of pressure, and a waterfall cascades out the front of the radiator. ‘Whoa,’ Jules and Shanti exclaim at the same time. ‘Nice water feature,’ she says. She chuckles and pats the car, resigned to the fact she’s going to miss her appointment.

Jules organises a tow truck while Shanti and I watch the torrential cascade subside to a gentle trickle. Shanti tells us she’s just upgraded to RACT Ultimate, so passenger transport after the tow is covered.

Shanti waves him off with a smile, knowing that the tow-truck is on its way.

At 4:30, Jules drops me back at the RACT House in Hobart. It’s the end of the day for me, but he still has work to do, until his 12-8pm shift ends. Who knows where the next Roadside rescue will be?

APRIL / MAY 2016

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IN TASMANIA TODAY

A PORTFOLIO David Killick

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original floor level of the main hut and has recaptured the ambience of this unique building,’ he said.

After departing Hobart in December, the six-person conservation party spent six weeks camped by the huts, which were constructed by the men of the 1911-14 Australasian Antarctic Expedition.

Sir Douglas Mawson is Australia’s foremost Antarctic hero. He is best remembered for his epic lone trek of survival across the windswept icecap after the deaths of his two companions. But his expedition also made breakthroughs in Antarctic geology, biology, meteorology, magnetism and oceanography; sent sledging parties across uncharted territory and used radio successfully for the first time on the continent.

he frozen shores of Antarctica seem an unlikely venue for a summer restoration project, but a team from the Mawson’s Huts Foundation has achieved a milestone in the preservation of Australia’s oldest Antarctic outpost – Mawson’s Huts at Cape Denison, Commonwealth Bay.

Our team braved sub-zero temperatures and hurricane-force winds to remove more than 30 cubic metres of ice that stood 40 centimetres deep in parts throughout the main hut and was damaging the artefacts within.

Mawson’s Huts Foundation expedition manager Rob Easther said the project was the culmination of nearly two decades’ work.

‘When our first team dug their way into the historic huts in 1997, they were virtually full of ice and snow and during the summer months, running water coursed through. Our latest team has dug down to the

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FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

Work will continue to maintain the structures, preserve the artefacts and remove any snow and ice that finds its way inside.

For those who want to experience the cosy charms of Mawson’s Huts, but would prefer not to brave blizzards and a Southern Ocean voyage, the replica museum on Hobart’s waterfront offers a remarkably similar experience – in above-zero temperatures. www.mawsons-huts.org.au www.mawsons-huts-replica.org.au

IN TASMANIA TODAY

Opposite page: Dr Ian Godfrey (chief conservator) and Marty Passingham (field leader) inspect the main hut. The huts were constructed in the windiest sea-level location on Earth – the place that Mawson named ‘The Home of the Blizzard’ This page, clockwise from top left: Historic artefacts give a glimpse of daily life; Marty Passingham and Peter Maxwell (conservator) move the remains of ‘Grandmother’ the husky; the interior of the main building was cleared of ice; more artefacts; celebrating the successful completion of conservation works are Michelle Berry (conservator), Marty Passingham, Dr Sally Hildred (expedition doctor), Ian Godfrey, Peter Maxwell and David Killick (journalist) Photographs: David Killick for the Mawson’s Huts Foundation

FEBRUARY / MARCH 2016

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IN TASMANIA TODAY

GALAXY Lucy Owens and Patrick Hinton

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e sat in the front row of an ornate tent, surrounded by Moroccan families cheering and celebrating. The roars of the crowd grew increasingly loud when the row of decorated horses at the opposite end of the dusty open field charged towards us. They rode in sync and shot rifles in unison as part of the traditional nationwide competition.

What on Earth were we, two Tasmanian students aged 18 and 20, doing here?

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This page: Moroccan cavalry charge; Taj Mahal, India; hiking the High Tatras, Slovakia

Well, we were on our first big trip and at the five-month halfway point we were running out of money so we headed to Morocco. We stayed in a tiny village for six weeks, spending only $2 a day and immersing ourselves in the culture.

When we had first booked the one-way flight to Europe it was simultaneously exciting and nerve-wracking for us, a young couple still in school, with no idea about the future. Little did we know that this commitment to a plane ticket would lead to making travel a huge part of our lives. Three years later, we are both at university and running Backpacker’s Guide to the Galaxy, a website that aims to help young people balance travel and study.

At the moment Patrick is studying Health Sciences at the University of Tasmania and Lucy is studying Medicine at Monash University in Melbourne. Both of us love engaging in thought-provoking conversations, getting off-grid and experiencing what the world has to offer. Balancing full-time study and travel is difficult, and we work hard during the year so we can afford to get away in the university holidays to wherever flights are cheapest.

IN TASMANIA TODAY

Since committing to our gap year and jumping on that plane to London in 2014, we have visited over thirty-five different countries on five continents and had unforgettable life experiences together. From getting launched into peak-hour traffic in New Delhi, to diving into the warm waters of Thailand, all the way to hiking the High Tatras in Slovakia, these last few years have been a roller coaster of adventure. Even sitting and pondering the wacky places we have eaten lunchtime sandwiches can be overwhelming.

When travelling or returning home we were often asked ‘How do you do it?’ So we decided to start a travel website detailing how budgeting and keeping a commitment to your goals can help you balance getting a degree and seeing the world. Our travel aim is sticking to under $50 a day and having this budget enables us to see a lot of the world and not break the bank. It is about prioritising what is important – we think that $50 spent on a day overseas is more important than $50 spent on a night out at home.

Backpacker’s Guide to the Galaxy is a growing website and a fantastic platform to share our ideas about budgeting, the best ways to explore, and how to avoid being ‘that tourist’. We enjoy sharing tips to help young people see as much of a destination as possible, try and seek an authentic experience, and learn more about different cultures than the name of the local liquor. Travel is the perfect way to build worldliness, expand mindsets and become more tolerant to the differences in people everywhere. We hope our website will be able to help more young people combine global life experiences with their studies.

We’d love RACT members to check it out – please visit www.backpackersguidetothegalaxy.com

Clockwise from top left : Ko Phi Phi, Thailand; Bagan, Myanmar; Jaipur, India; Times Square, New York; Sahara Desert, Morocco Photos: Lucy Owens and Patrick Hinton collection

APRIL / MAY 2016

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IN TASMANIA TODAY

Have mat, will travel

Human biologist, yoga teacher, fitness coach and personal trainer Renee Lochner

L

et’s rewind to October 2012, when I was immersed in ‘everything yoga’ and living in a beautiful yoga ashram in the mountains of British Columbia, Canada. If you’d told me that I would be setting down roots in Tasmania, I would have said ‘Where?’ Yes, it came as a surprise when my partner Martin found out that he had gotten a job with CSIRO in Hobart, Tasmania. I pulled out an atlas and tried to figure out if we were heading to Africa or Eastern Europe. Looking back at these experiences goes to show just how little an average gal from Ontario knows about the stunning landscapes, let alone the whereabouts of Tasmania, Australia.

When we first arrived we were struck by the beauty of this small and fascinating island. The fresh air and cool breezes were calling us to live an even healthier life, with nature on our side. I had moved from Canada with two backpacks and a recent past that had involved time alone in retreat and meditation. The sheer contrast made it feel as if I was stepping into a new life, which turns out to have been quite true!

Since our move, Martin and I have married, had a baby and have become permanent residents of Australia – all major life changes.

We’re happily raising our daughter Clover here and have been enjoying explorations of the island’s wildlife and wild places, along with regular trips to the beach. We also have a block of land near Colebrook where we enjoy camping holidays, tucked away in the rolling hills surrounding the Craigbourne Dam. Among the new adventures life has brought, one of the few things that has stayed constant has been my yoga practice. I have clear memories of my first yoga class at FitHot Yoga, rain pelting down on the tin roof. It was a Tasmanian spring day and I really felt I was 38

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Clockwise from left: First yoga on Mt Wellington; land in Colebrook; Renee, Martin and Clover, Christmas 2014.

Photos: Lochner family collection

half-way across the world from my old home. Also memorable are the many classes I taught while pregnant – the students insisted that I didn’t go into labour until after the class! And of course there’s my first meditative walk on Mt Wellington and my first Tasmanian yoga retreat in beautiful South Arm. My most recent project is helping Bija Yoga Centre to launch the first-ever international yoga school in Tasmania. (Check the panel for a special offer for RACT members at Bija Yoga.)

When I reflect on my life at age 25 and my life now (I’m 30 in April!) I realise that so much is unknown until it presents itself.

I had no idea I’d end up here – but I’m happy to have made it to Tasmania and I’m proud to call it home.

Taking a healthy moment to yourself – try this quick and practical breathing exercise.

• Sit or stand in a comfortable position with your eyes closed • Place your hands over your ribcage, just below the breast bone. Place your left hand on the left side of the ribcage and your right hand on the right side • Take a large breath in through your nose to fill the lungs.

Think of expanding your ribcage outward towards your hands. Hold breath for one second • Begin to exhale through your nose. Feel the ribcage come back into its original position • Repeat ten times

Special offer for RACT members Bija Yoga Centre is offering RACT members 15% off class passes or reduced rates for an unlimited month.

Offer ends 31 May 2016. For more details, contact Holli at Bija Yoga Centre – call 0456 184 070 or visit www.bijayogacentre.com

IN TASMANIA TODAY

ON STAGE

Theatre Royal

Rock of Ages

WIN

8-23 April

I

t’s the tail-end of the big, bad 1980s in Hollywood, and the party has been raging hard.

Lycra, lace and liquor flow freely at one of the Sunset Strip’s last legendary venues, a place where sex machine Stacee Jaxx takes the stage and scantily-clad groupies line up to turn their fantasies into reality.

Amidst the madness, aspiring rock star (and resident toilet cleaner) Drew longs to take the stage as the next big thing (and longs for small-town girl Sherri, fresh off the bus from Kansas with stars in her eyes).

But the rock and roll fairy-tale is about to end when German developers sweep into town with plans to turn the fabled Strip into just another capitalist strip mall.

Can Drew, Sherri and the gang save the Strip – and themselves – before it’s too late?

Big hits, big voices, big rock ’n roll sound – be there!

Wuthering Heights

Misterman

4-7 May

31 May to 4 June

ronte’s much-loved Got hic masterpiece Wuthering Heights is set to storm into the Theatre Royal in this new adaptation, featuring a breathtaking design and a stellar cast. Wuthering Heights tells the story of Heathcliff, a mysterious boy who is rescued from the street and brought to ‘Wuthering Heights’, where he develops a passionate bond with Catherine Earnshaw.

It’s an outstanding story of revenge, love and loss – a sweeping saga, retold for the stage.

asmanian talent is on fine display in this solo show from Blue Cow Theatre, performed in the Theatre Royal Backspace.

Inishfree might seem like a quaint Irish town, but fierce evangelist Thomas Magill knows better. He knows jovial Dwain Flynn is a miserable drunk, that Timmy O’Leary enslaves his lovely mother and that sweet Mrs Cleary is a blasphemous flirt. It’s down to Thomas to save this sinful place.

Just how far will he go in his quest for salvation?

B

Playhouse Theatre

Habeas Corpus

WIN

13-28 May

I

t is England in the mid-1960s and some upper middle-class Brits are feeling the heat. The sex-mad Dr Wicksteed is caught in a compromising position, and his wife craves the reawakening of passion. Meanwhile his sister is obsessed with developing her flat chest and plans to help nature along. This is a politically-incorrect comedy classic not to be missed!

ON THE BOOKSHELF

Give the Devil his Due

T

his is the seventh instalment in Sulari Gentill’s award-winning historical crime series The Rowland Sinclair Mysteries.

In this story, Sinclair and his lively friends are put to the test, as fast cars, bookies, a mysterious cult and the A-list of Sydney society all race Rowland – in his gleaming yellow 1927 Mercedes Benz S-Class – to the finish line!

T

Winners The Philosophy of Travel

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s publisher and host of 4WD Touring Australia, photographer Carlisle Rogers has travelled over 100,000 Outback kilometres, met some incredible people and captured some of Australia’s most spectacular scenery. This lavishlyillustrated book has over 100 superb full-page colour photographs as well as a series of engaging essays exploring the relationship between the inner and outer journeys we take.

(FEB/MAR)

BLACK CROWN Russell Lewis, Rocky Cape Jen Downes, Devonport C.Groves, Blackmans Bay

WIN $30 vouchers from Fullers Bookshop, Myer and The Body Shop.

Find our hidden Black Crown, write the page number and your contact details on the back of an envelope and mail to Black Crown, RACT Marketing, GPO Box 1292, Hobart 7001, or email to journeyscomps@ract.com.au Entries close on 9 May 2016. Last issue the Black Crown was on page 10.

APRIL / MAY 2016

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IN TASMANIA TODAY

I’ll take the

high road Alice Hansen heads north across Tasmania’s Central Plateau

I

t’s not a particularly well-worn path. In fact, it’s the only A-road in Australia that remains partially unsealed. But that’s what makes this drive so special! So next time you want to travel between Tasmania’s capital city and the North West Coast, take the alternative route across the high country. You’ll see Australia’s second-largest freshwater lake along the way and cover fewer kilometres than you would on the Midland Highway.

In 2001, the name of the route was changed to ‘Highland Lakes Road’, but ask any local and they’ll call it the Lake Highway.

Whatever the name, your task on the northward trip is to hit the indicator at Melton Mowbray and head left. The road will deliver you to Deloraine 146 kilometres later.

First things first – avoid this drive at dusk or after dark. Wildlife is more common than passing cars in these parts. It’s also important to check road conditions in winter, when snow and ice can be encountered. Other than this, prepare for steep ascents, hairpin bends and lush, sprawling forest. It’s the kind of drive paired well with walking boots.

The first township you’ll reach is Bothwell, one of Australia’s earliest inland settlements. Feel like playing a round on Australia’s oldest golf course? You can do just that at Ratho Farm, where 18 holes have been restored and sheep still graze the fairways. If you’d like to slow your Lake Highway trip right down, book in overnight at Ratho, staying in a convict-built cottage that pre-dates Port Arthur.

This page: Alongside Projection Bluff; lookout over Great Lake near Breona, the first view of the lakes when travelling from the North West 40

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APRIL / MAY 2016

IN TASMANIA TODAY

Back on the road, you’ll notice the vegetation morphing into an alpine feel.

At its highest point, the road reaches 1209 metres above sea level. Open country, gnarled tree trunks and highland lakes begin to appear. You’ll see fishermen’s shacks dotting the landscape – they’re real Aussie shacks, not the multi-storey, floor-to-ceiling windows variety. These are shacks decorated with hand-me-down couches and 1970s kettles. It might be at this point you sense why trout fishermen lose hours to these misty highland lakes.

There’s a magic about this region. It’s the neighbourhood where Bill Lark once stood with a fly fishing rod and decided he’d venture into whisky-making – a decision that saw him recently inducted into the Whisky Hall of Fame in London.

At Great Lake, one of Australia’s largest, pull over for spectacular views across the Central Plateau. Beyond the highway, craggy peaks rise. If you’re feeling energetic, don’t just view them from the car seat – the highway provides access to notable walks including Quamby Bluff, Projection Bluff and the handsome Liffey Falls. There’s also a side trip to Pine Lake, where a short boardwalk runs through a stand of pencil pines, endemic to Tasmania.

From the plateau, it’s all downhill into the township of Deloraine. From here, you can explore further to Cradle Mountain or rejoin the Bass Highway to the North West or eastward to Launceston. Essential stops in the region include Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm, Ashgrove Cheese and the House of Anvers, all tasty ways to conclude your Lake Highway adventure.

Clockwise from top left: ‘Nant’, near Bothwell; unsealed section of the road; ‘Shene Estate’ at Pontville, en route to Melton Mowbray; quirky lodging near Rats Castle; rural scene near Bothwell Photos: Alice Hansen APRIL / MAY 2016

Journeys

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IN TASMANIA TODAY

Presenting the stories of Tasmania’s women convicts Regular guided tours of the Cascades Female Factory Historic Site relate the history of women convicts

W

hile Port Arthur and other well-known convict heritage sites in Tasmania have long related the stories of mostly male convicts, the stories of the thousands of women who were transported to the colonies have, until recently, been less accessible.

The Cascades Female Factory Historic Site in South Hobart tells the stories of Australia’s women convicts and their children in a variety of ways. Signage and printed guide notes are available, as is an informative guided Heritage Tour. The dramatic Her Story brings the tale of the trials and tribulations of a woman in the Female Factory in the 1830s to life in a moving and engaging way.

Poignant babies’ cribs in what was once the nursery of the Cascades Female Factory

While little survives of the original buildings other than the imposing stone walls, clever elements, such as replicas of babies’ cribs, furniture and even a pulpit where the chapel once stood help to illustrate its history. The stories of 52 inmates are displayed on panels around the site.

On Mother’s Day, Sunday 8 May, there will be an Open Day at the Cascades Female Factory. Entry will be free and a variety of activities are planned. The Matron’s Cottage will be open to all, offering a number of displays and possibly even an appearance by the Matron herself. Heritage tours and children’s activities will be available and there will be a BBQ offering sausage sandwiches at a small cost.

For more information please visit female.factory.org.au or phone 1800 139 478.

T HE W ORLD H ERITAGE - LISTED C ASCADES F EMALE F ACTORY WAS A SELF - CONTAINED , PURPOSE BUILT INSTITUTION INTENDED TO REFORM FEMALE CONVICTS. THOUSANDS OF WOMEN AND CHILDREN WERE IMPRISONED HERE .

M ANY NEVER LEFT . D ISCOVER THEIR STORIES WITH A GUIDED TOUR OR

‘H ER S TORY ’.

16 D EGRAVES S TREET , S OUTH H OBART C ALL 03 6233 6656 OR VISIT www.femalefactory.org.au EXPERIENCE THE DRAMATIC

FEMALE FACTORY Discover the stories of Australia’s convict women entry from $5pp 42

Journeys

APRIL / MAY 2016

RIGHT

WAVE AND SAVE NEW SAVINGS THIS AUTUMN FAMILY FUN EDITION

Show your RACT membership card and save on a range of new discounts this autumn.

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CURRENTLY OFFERING RACT MEMBERS

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ACCOMMODATION * For more information visit ractdestinations.com.au

*Conditions apply.

10% OFF * AT REPCO

As an RACT member you’ll get 10% off* a wide range of parts, accessories and lubricants.

And if some Repco Know How is what you need, our friendly, expert staff are always ready to share their knowledge to help you get the job done. Repco has over 90 years of motoring Know How supplying parts, accessories and advice to millions of Australian drivers and motoring professionals. So if it’s time to change your oil or give your car a little extra care get into Repco. www.repco.com.au

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RACT Members

Save 35% with the Hobart Out Special!

For a limited time RACT Members receive an extra 10% off our already discounted Hobart Out travel offer.

Travel from Hobart to any other Apollo branch and you will receive your 10% Members discount ON TOP of the already reduced daily rental rate. You’ll also save $260 with no One Way Fee PLUS receive a $350 travel allowance.

Travel dates start from April 26th, for selected date ranges. Get in fast, this offer will book out quick!

To book or for more information visit www.ract.com.au/apollo Discount only available to current RACT members when booking through RACT. Valid for travel in Australia only. Apollo rental terms and conditions apply. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Subject to availability.

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YOUR TRAVEL NEWS

APRIL / MAY 2016

SOUTH AMERICA | NEW ZEALAND | EUROPE | WORLD CRUISING

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Tuscan treats Photo of the Cinque Terre courtesy of Back-Roads Touring

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Greek islandhopping

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Outback Australia

TRAVEL by RACT

The sea is your oyster!

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arnival Cruise Line is the largest cruise line in the world, with a fleet of 25 ships and more than four million guests travelling every year. The first ship to be based outside of the US, Carnival Spirit sails from Sydney year-round. She is joined by her sister ship Carnival Legend over the summer.

On a cruise, there are more than 45 daily activities spanning 12 decks of fun. You’ve probably been on waterslides before, but have you been on the steepest and fastest waterslide at sea, Green Thunder? If you’re looking for something a little tamer, all ages can splash the day away in the SplashZone. Up for something new? At

Alchemy Bar, allow our mixologists to prescribe you a bespoke cocktail.

Relax in the adultson ly S eren it y Retreat or catch a game in the sports bar. Kids will enjoy Carnival Waterworks and Seuss At Sea, which brings to life the magic of Dr Seuss.

Carnival offers world-class experiences at great value. You’re guaranteed a good night’s sleep, with every room designed for your comfort. So unpack once and relax! Whatever you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it – beautifully fresh and healthy sushi at Bonsai Sushi*, Mexican cuisine from Blue Iguana Mexican Cantina^ or tasty burgers from Guy’s Burger Joint^. And with 24/7 pizza and ice cream, you’ll never go hungry!

Every night there is a variety of entertainment across 16 bars and lounges, with everything from Broadway-style entertainment to karaoke and incredible live music across all venues. Be spoilt for choice – you’ll fall in love with travelling as you horseback ride, explore, shop, sunbathe, laugh, swim and snorkel your way to fun.

The sea is your oyster!

A Carnival cruise offers fun, vibrant holidays where families and free-spirited couples reconnect in a lively atmosphere. *Charges apply. ^On Carnival Spirit only.

Contact your nearest RACT Travel office for more information or call 1300 368 111

MEMBER’S BONUS $100 ONBOARD CREDIT PER CABIN ~

TRANSPACIFIC HAWAII TO SYDNEY UNWIND IN NEW CALEDONIA & VANUATU

Interior Quad pp from* Interior Twin pp from*

$2,044

$2,549

18 nights Hawaii to Sydney departing 23 Sept 2016

Interior Quad pp from* Interior Twin pp from*

$1,104

$1,349

10 nights to New Caledonia & Vanuatu departing 22 Nov 2016

EXPLORE NEW CALEDONIA & FIJI

Interior Quad pp from* Interior Twin pp from*

$1,919

$2,099

11 nights to New Caledonia & Fiji departing 18 Dec 2016

*Fares are cruise only, per person, in AUD, in complete quad or twin cabins as specified, in lead categories available at the time of printing, inclusive of all discounts, taxes and charges (which are subject to change). ~Member Bonus is valid for select sailings only. Subject to limited availability. $100 onboard credit is in AUD, per cabin. Onboard credit is non refundable, non transferable and non reedemable for cash. Whilst all information is correct at time of publication, offers are subject to change or withdrawal. To be read in conjunction with Carnival Cruise Line ticket contract available at www.carnival.com.au/au-legal-notice-ticket-contract which passengers will be bound by. ©Carnival Cruise Line. All rights reserved. Ships Registry: Malta. Carnival plc trading as Carnival Cruise Line. ABN 23 107 998 443. The price shown is for cash payment – credit card fees of up to 2% will apply. For any additional travel arrangements outside of this offer service fees may apply.

Further conditions apply, please ask at the time of booking for full details Carnival plc trading as Carnival Cruise Line. ABN 23 107 998 443. RACT Travel Pty Ltd ATAS No. A11470 ABN 45 144 538 803.

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TRAVEL by RACT Back-Roads choose quality local accommodation to reflect the charm and character of the regions you visit, ranging from a French chateau to an Italian villa. Back-Roads also recognise that authentic local experiences have greater appeal than attractions on the typical tourist trail. They take the time to seek out experiences where guests can relate to local crafts and culture. From a Mafia tour in Sicily with a descendant of the Corleone family to a meeting with Molly Bihet, who was just nine years old when the Nazis arrived in Guernsey in 1940.

Sampling local cuisine is an integral part of experiencing the culture – not to mention one of life’s pleasures. Back-Roads include authentic culinary experiences which are locally sourced. Lunch at The Seafood Restaurant, Rick Stein’s flagship restaurant in Padstow on the ‘Corners of Cornwall’ itinerary: to a traditional Italian cooking class in the Tuscan Hills are just two examples.

Experience ‘the road less travelled’ W

ith almost 30 years’ experience in small group and tailormade tours across the UK and Europe, Back-Roads Touring is truly the original small group touring company. By limiting the group sizes to a maximum of only 18 passengers, Back-Roads are experts at providing a friendly, relaxed and flexible form of touring that takes the scenic back-roads, not freeways. In fact, their belief in the advantages of small group travel underpins everything that they do – from the types of vehicles that are used, to the places they visit and the accommodation that is hand-selected. In many ways, it couldn’t be further from a typical coach-touring experience.

Unlike conventional large coaches, Back-Roads luxury mini-coaches can go almost anywhere a car can go. This means that a Back-Roads group can reach places that conventional coach touring groups can only dream of. Whether it is reaching the heart of medieval towns and villages or enjoying the scenery along narrow, hedge-lined Cornish lanes, you can be assured that Back-Roads will take you beyond the tourist façade of our European destinations and guarantee you an unparalleled balance of renowned and lesser-known sites.

So, experience the road less travelled, and see the real UK and Europe the Back-Roads way.

For more information visit your nearest RACT Travel office or call 1300 368 111.

MEMBER’S BONUS

SAVE $100 PER PERSON*

The Experts in UK & Europe Small Group Touring VE SA

$

10 P

ER

0

PE

R

SO

N

OXFORD, BATH, LONGLEAT & AVEBURY THE BACK-ROADS DIFFERENCE »

Now from

1825

$

5

HEART OF ENGLAND

*

PP*

» » »

Travel at a leisurely pace, allowing more time to explore this region in depth

DAYS

10 P

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0

PE

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*

15

Behind the scenes tour of Longleat Stately Home

8

TUSCAN TREATS

DAYS

LUCCA, VOLTERRA, SAN GIMIGNANO & CHIANTI MAX

THE BACK-ROADS DIFFERENCE »

PASSENGERS

Stay in charming authentic accommodation in the English countryside

With a maximum of 18 passengers, we offer a more personalised experience, and provide a relaxed and flexible form of touring.

$

MAX

Dine on quality produce sourced from the best local suppliers

Maximum Group Size of 18

VE SA

»

Now from

$

2695PP*

» »

Relax in a gorgeous villa in the heart of Tuscany Explore Lucca, one of Italy’s best kept secrets

18

PASSENGERS

Cook your own Italian lunch with a chef who will share the secrets of how to make a delicious Tuscan meal using local ingredients

Enjoy a number of different Tuscan food and wine tasting experiences

Scenic Back Roads, Not Freeways

Authentic Local Experiences

Charming Accommodation

Culinary Experiences

Unlike large coaches, our mini-coaches can go almost anywhere a car can. Access the smallest town squares, country lanes and medieval villages.

We take you to places away from the standard tourist trails. Go beyond the tourist façade to learn more about local food, crafts, history and culture.

Stay in quality local accommodation that reflects the character of your destination such as country estates, castle hotels, villas and traditional inns.

We include authentic culinary experiences which are locally sourced, and use local handpicked restaurants.

*Conditions apply. Prices are on a twin share basis for low season departures and inclusive of members discount. Members discount is valid for new bookings of 5 days or more for summer 2016 tours. (promo code RACT16$100). Subject to availability. Member Bonus offer is valid only for new bookings deposited 1 April - 30 May 2016. Price shown is for a cash payment credit card fees of up to 2% will apply. Prices & taxes are subject to change. RACT Travel Pty Ltd. ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS No. A11470.

APRIL / MAY 2016

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MEMBER’S BONUS SAVE $200 PER COUPLE#

UNFORGETTABLE

Cast off from the crowds APT Small Ship Cruises return gentility to the art of travel with personalised service aboard the atmospheric Island Sky. Voyaging from Barcelona to London, you’ll see the Mediterranean through the eyes of a leisured connoisseur. You’ll sail past the tourists and outmanoeuvre the big ships to discover the Med’s tranquil coves and hidden treasures.

LONDON Tilbury Gernsey

Saint Malo

Brest

TAILORED SHORE EXCURSIONS – with knowledgeable English-speaking local guides EXPEDITION TEAM – up to 5 experts who will share their expert knowledge of local culture and history PERSONALISED SERVICE – a high staff-to-guest ratio ensures you’ll be pampered every minute of the journey ALL-INCLUSIVE TOURING – spacious suites, Wi-Fi, sightseeing, entrance fees, all meals, tipping, airport transfers, port charges and beverages^ are all included in the price

Companion Fly Free* Southern European Sojourn Barcelona to London – 2 Jul., 31 Aug.#, 13 Sept.# 2017 15 days from $15,495* per person twin share

UK

14 MS ISLAND SKY

A Coruna Porto

Le Verdon Bordeaux FRANCE

Bilbao BARCELONA SPAIN

PORTUGAL

Lisbon Seville Granada

Portimao Cadiz

Valencia Cartagena

Motril

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY

*Conditions apply. Prices are per person (pp) twin share and include an early payment discount. Prices are correct as at 9 February 2016 but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Book by 31 October 2016, unless sold out prior. Prices based on all 2017 departures of NOBIBL15 (Standard Suite Forward). Prices include port charges and early payment discount of $500 pp. #Departure operates in reverse and may vary slightly. Offers are not combinable, available on new bookings only and subject to availability. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. A limited number of offers are available on set departures. A non-refundable deposit of $1,000 pp is due within 7 days of booking. A second non-refundable deposit of $3,000 pp is due by 31 October 2016. Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure. However, if fares increase and/or change in ticketing requirements occur, the second deposit may be required earlier. Once air tickets are issued, airline amendment and/cancellation fees apply and in some cases are non-refundable. Flights are in economy class with Singapore Airlines or Emirates (or an airline of APT’s choosing) ex MEL/ SYD/BNE/ADL/PER. All offers are subject to availability of airline and booking class. Once class is sold out surcharges apply. Flights must be booked by APT. $500 PER PERSON EARLY PAYMENT DISCOUNT: Tour must be paid in full 10 months prior to departure date. COMPANION FLY FREE: Based on two people booking a Standard Suite Forward (NOBIBL15) twin share. Offer includes one person’s Economy airfare and taxes up to the value of $300. Enquire for Solo Traveller offer. #RACT MEMBER BONUS: Save an additional $200 per couple ($100 pp) on new bookings only for the advertised package of NOBIBL15 only. Book by 30 April 2016 to receive member discount. A limited number of member discounts available. The price shown is for a cash payment – Credit card fees of up to 2% will apply. For any additional travel arrangements outside this offer service fees may apply. Please ask at the time of booking. Australian Pacific Touring Pty Ltd ABN 44 004 684 619. ATAS accreditation #A10825. RACT Travel Pty Ltd ATAS No. A11470 ABN 45 144 538 803. APT3745

TRAVEL by RACT

Small-ship cruising – unbelievable, unforgettable!

perhaps embark on an escorted hike towards the Mirador de ses Barques.

During our Southern European Sojourn cruise, take in vibrant Spanish culture, sample some of Portugal’s finest port wine and explore France’s exquisite islands as you sail from Barcelona to London. For the perfect accompaniment to our cruises, our guided immersive land journeys of Turkey, France and the United Kingdom offer further European discoveries.

Setting sail in Northern Europe, you’ll see the best the Baltic countries have to offer, from exquisite architecture in Helsinki to the opulence of St Petersburg. Step back into medieval times in Tallinn, explore Gothic Riga and Gdansk and see where Danish and Swedish cultures collide. An in-depth Norwegian land journey provides the perfect accompaniment to our Baltic cruises.

C

Island Sky, Lofoten Islands, Norway

ombining adventure and supreme comfort, small-ship cruising is all about uncovering both the world’s most iconic destinations and places you never knew existed. On these journeys of a lifetime, APT offers unique expedition cruising experiences such as Zodiac excursions, bird-watching, hiking and snorkelling. And with a maximum of just 59 suites, we offer unmatched privilege and access.

Sometimes it takes an exclusive small ship to discover hidden destinations. Our worldwide expeditions take you to all corners of the globe, including the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, Asia and the Kimberley Coast.

The advantages of exploring by small ship include personalised attention – you’re treated as a family member, not a number. When you’re exploring ashore, small group sizes mean there’s no queuing to embark or disembark. The relaxed and informal atmosphere is ideal for getting to know your fellow travellers and onboard staff.

APT’s small ship cruises offer a superb all-inclusive onboard lifestyle with every detail covered. Throughout your cruise, you’ll experience a wealth of inclusions – elegant and spacious accommodation with ocean views, all excursions, a high crew-to-passenger ratio to ensure your every need is looked after, outstanding cuisine created by talented chefs, selected beverages served at your discretion, an expedition leader and team to guide onshore discoveries and Zodiac excursions, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi internet to stay in touch with loved ones back home. With no hidden expenses, you’ll have peace of mind, knowing exactly where you stand with your holiday budget.

APT offers two distinct styles of cruising. Soft Expedition cruises allow you to tailor the level of adventure according to your interests, with a range of gentle and active excursions.

Expedition cruises are more active and involve regular use of Zodiac vessels, which are ideal for exploration.

An onboard team of experts including naturalists, historians and ecologists offer you insights into each region you explore. As you venture into the Earth’s remote places, you’ll know you are in expert hands.

With new destinations come new discoveries. Our Mediterranean cruises are heading to exciting new destinations. During our Mediterranean Odyssey, be guided by an ornithological expert on a bird-watching expedition to Nea Kio in Nafplio. Voyage to the dazzling waters off Cagliari and Alghero on the Italian island of Sardinia, then explore Mahon on the Spanish island of Menorca. Delight in the rich history of Mallorca, and

In 2017, APT will offer a circumnavigation of Japan, delving into the culture, history and gardens of this extraordinary country.

In addition, you will now be able to venture across to South Korea’s island of Jeju-do, a pristine and protected biosphere reserve.

For the ultimate small ship cruising experience, we have handcrafted three new fantastic Grand Expeditions, combining two magnificent cruises to create one unforgettable adventure of a lifetime.

Unpack once and let the world’s hidden gems come to you!

Embark on an adventure through the Mediterranean, reliving the ANZAC legend in Gallipoli, navigating the Greek Islands, eating your way through Spain and sampling the finest wines from the Bordeaux region, before concluding in London.

Cruise through Norway’s impressive fjords and experience Scandinavian culture at its finest. Afterwards, discover the best of France, Portugal and Spain.

A once-in-a-lifetime adventure awaits from Manila to Broome, as you encounter the formidable Komodo dragons, experience an overnight adventure in Torajaland and explore the epic Kimberley coast.

This is only just a glimpse into the amazing worldwide expeditions on offer.

With small-ship cruising, a few weeks of ‘unbelievable’ makes a lifetime of ‘unforgettable’.

Call RACT Travel on 1300 368 111 or visit your local branch.

APRIL / MAY 2016

Journeys

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TRAVEL by RACT

From an island to a river Chris Viney

F

ur seals, basking on a windy, spray-drenched rock shelf, long lines of green swells marching in from the Great Australian Bight – the quiet, cliff-lined bends of a broad, slow-flowing river, pelicans gliding above the calm, coffee-coloured waters. The two scenes seem worlds apart – but I experience them both in the course of a five-day South Australian expedition with SeaLink and Captain Cook Cruises, first to Kangaroo Island and then north-east to the lower reaches of the mighty Murray.

The journey begins with a 1 ½ hour coach trip from Adelaide, with the late David Bowie’s final and macabre ‘Black Star’ album playing on my iPod – the tight, tough, jazz-influenced music contrasts oddly with the gentle rural landscapes of the Fleurieu Peninsula.

It’s a 40 minute cruise by SeaLink ferry from Cape Jervis across Backstairs Passage to Penneshaw on Kangaroo Island, where we meet our driver Lachie. He’s quite an adventurer – a recent exploit was a circumnavigation of Tasmania by sea kayak, so a two-day circuit of Kangaroo Island by bus is a breeze. On near-deserted roads we head across the island to the south coast, where a walk through dunes takes us to the ocean beach at Seal Bay. Sea lions recline like giant grey slugs on the sand near the water, resting between feeding excursions and occasionally warning-off approaching neighbours with a throaty rumble from somewhere deep down below.

Back on the road, our next stop is Raptor Domain, one of the highlights of the trip. The two young bird handlers, Angus and Stephanie, are passionate about their work. One by one, birds in free flight are called in to rest on a gloved hand – magpies, a masked owl, an acrobatic falcon, a sea eagle and a majestic wedge-tail glide, swoop or hover, while Angus and Stephanie describe each bird with enthusiasm.

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Journeys

APRIL / MAY 2016

Reaching the far western tip of the island through Flinders Chase National Park, we descend a series of boardwalks to reach a colony of New Zealand fur seals, lolling in pungent heaps on the rocks, the dramatic curving profile of Admiral’s Arch framing the scene.

The geology is even more spectacular at the nearby Remarkable Rocks, where weather-sculpted, lichen-splashed boulders perch on a dome of granite, high above the waves.

Our overnight stop is the historic village of Kingscote, South Australia’s first European settlement and home of Kangaroo Island’s most photographed local, John the Pelican Man. With a silver gull perched on his hat and a bucket of fish scraps to hand, he braves snapping beaks to feed a proliferation of pelicans.

Later that afternoon, from the balcony of the Aurora Ozone Hotel, I watch the same birds hang-gliding on a steady north-easterly wind. It’s blowing from the place I’ll be tomorrow – aboard the Murray Princess, watching different pelicans spiralling on thermals, high above Australia’s greatest waterway.

TRAVEL by RACT

Take me to the river She sits low and broad on the water, pushing away a bow wave that ripples through nodding willows lining the banks. At the stern, the paddlewheel tosses spray into the air and churns the river water into a wide wake that streams away behind.

My three-day cruise aboard the majestic river boat Murray Princess (there are also four and seven-day options) begins at the river port of Mannum, a couple of hours’ drive from Adelaide. We voyage up and down-river, reaching Murray Bridge in the south and cruising northward past Mannum to Walkers Flat, where our riverboat turns in a wide stretch of the river, 205 kilometres from where the Murray reaches the sea.

At the end of each day, our crew members simply cast a line ashore and lash it to a sturdy river red gum. As evening approaches, I join other guests in the lounge to watch the light fade on the river and enjoy a pre-dinner drink. Dining is one of the many appeals of Murray Princess cruising, with menus featuring local specialties – the South Australian saltbush-fed lamb is a highlight.

Any big river is a highway, creating its own route through the countryside. The Murray-Darling system drains a third of the Australian continent and runs for almost over 3500 kilometres.

Longer than the Volga, the Ganges, the Zambezi and the Colorado, it’s Australia’s great river – and by far the best way to discover the Murray is to venture out on this slow-moving watery highway itself, aboard the river’s own signature riverboat, the wonderful Murray Princess.

For more information visit your nearest RACT Travel office or call 1300 368 111.

Adelaide, Murray Princess & Kangaroo Island Enjoy a stay in the city of Adelaide and then board the PS Murray Princess for a three night Discovery Cruise on the beautiful Murray River. Finish your South Australian experience with a two day tour to Kangaroo Island.

From $1443* per person.

MEMBER’S BONUS SAVE $76* PER PERSON

This 6 night/7 day package includes: 2 nights at Mercure Grosvenor Hotel Adelaide 3 night Discovery Cruise on the PS Murray Princess

Self Drive Holidays to Kangaroo Island

MEMBER’S BONUS

SAVE There are so many fantastic places to 5%* PER discover on Kangaroo Island, so why not BOOKING do it from the comfort of your own car?

Save 20% off your ferry fares when booking a self-drive holiday package, including accommodation.

Over 150 choices of accommodation, to suit all budgets Explore the island at your own pace Pick the attractions and activities you wish to experience

2 day Best of Kangaroo Island tour with SeaLink including 1 night accommodation at the Kangaroo Island Seaside Inn Only want a Murray Princess cruise? Ask us how to save 15%!

* Conditions apply. Twin share, inside cabin. Price valid to 31Mar17 and available to RACT members only. Bookings subject to availability at time of booking. Upgrades available on request.

Blackout dates and Special Event Rates may apply. Subject to SeaLink’s standard terms and conditions, for details visit www.sealink.com.au. Cancellation fees may apply. Murray Princess: 15% discount is based on off-peak Early Booking Saver Fares for bookings made up to 90 days prior to departure. Limited availability. Once allotment is sold, prices revert to standard RACT member pricing. Travel Insurance is strongly recommended. The price shown is for a cash payment – Credit card fees of up to 2% will apply. For any additional travel arrangements outside this offer service fees may apply. Please ask at time of booking for any further conditions. RACT Travel Pty Ltd. ATAS No. A11470 ABN 45 144 538 803.

APRIL / MAY 2016

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TRAVEL by RACT

HERE, THERE & EVERYWHERE

Congratulations!

A unique Christmas We are excited to announce a unique opportunity for you to embark in Hobart and cruise on one of the biggest ships Australia has ever seen. Debuting in 2016, Royal Caribbean Lines’ Ovation of the Seas offers an amazing array of services and activities including the first ever sky diving simulator at sea, flow rider, bumper cars, 18 different restaurant choices including Jamie’s Italian, even robotic barmen to mix your cocktails! Cruise New Zealand for 12 days from Hobart – no early flight check-ins and no chance of missing the boat!

Guy Sheppard is the winner of the RACT member and Thrifty 200,000 Virgin Velocity Points prize.

Mr Sheppard is pictured receiving his prize from RACT Travel Sales Manager, Christine Benbow.

Embarking in Hobart on 18 December 2016, you disembark in Sydney and just add your flight back to Tassie. Whilst you can enjoy Christmas at sea, consider staying on a few days to welcome the New Year in Sydney. It really will be a Christmas holiday break like no other. Call us today to make your Christmas cruise arrangements.

Bring your US Masters dream to life Do you love golf? A trip to the US Masters in Augusta is on the bucket list of every golfer, so why not go with Aussie PGA pro Kieran McMahon? For a once-in-a- lifetime trip, choosing a fully hosted small group tour and guaranteed tickets is a must.

McMahon, an award-winning golf coach and Australian PGA member, has been hosting golf tours for the past 15 years, including the last four US Masters. Masters Tour clients benefit from his knowledge of the quirky conditions at Augusta.

He will show you how to get a front-row ‘reserved’ seat at key holes and host private access to quality food and drinks facilities during the whole week of the event.

The 7 day Great Events Masters Tour in April 2017 coordinates the perfect mix of the world’s best sporting event with the experience of the much heralded hospitality of the American

From left: Arnold Palmer leaning on club; Gary Player teeing off and Jack Nicklaus – three legends of the game together

South. Staying in Augusta allows our tour to soak up the true atmosphere of the Masters.

Still on a high from the Masters, many tour members opt for the 3 day Post Masters Las Vegas swing. Great Events Tours do Vegas in style with exclusive tee times at the world famous Shadow Creek Golf Club.

There are so many inclusions in this amazing tour – please contact us for itinerary details.

DISCOVER THE WORLD WITH APT Journey around the world in one night as APT showcases their portfolio of destinations from River Cruising in Europe, Russia, Vietnam and China to exploring Africa or the wonders of the Canadian Rockies, along with their amazing itineraries in Australia and New Zealand.

VENUES, DATES AND TIMES: Hobart: 03 May, 6pm – 7:30pm, The Old Woolstore Launceston: 04 May, 6pm – 7:30pm, Tailrace Centre Burnie: 05 May, 6pm – 7:30pm, RACT Travel office a member of

SAVE $500* per couple + go in the draw to WIN a $500* cash passport card!

RSVP’s Essential – Limited Seating!

Please contact your nearest RACT Travel office or email travelcallcentre@ract.com.au

For further information contact your nearest branch 1300 368 111 or www.ract.com.au/travel Rosny 6212 6777 Burnie 6434 2955 Ulverstone 6425 8050 Devonport 6421 1977 Hobart - Murray St 6232 6455 CRUISE TRAVEL CENTRE 6222 9222 - Hobart Kingston 6242 3211 Launceston 6335 5655

*T&C’s apply: Must book & deposit within 7 days of the event to receive the special discount. To enter competition, book and deposit with 7 days of the event on any APT, Travelmarvel or Botanica World Discoveries tour to go in the draw to win a $500 cash passport card. Conditions apply. All events subject to change. RACT Travel Pty Ltd. ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS No. A11470.

World_APT_183x80mm Strip Ad.indd 54 RACT_Discover Journeysthe APRIL / MAY 2016

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TRAVEL by RACT

From the Caribbean to the Med

Havana, Cuba

E

xperience a holiday like no other as MSC Cruises takes you to our newest destination, the beautiful and lively island of Cuba. This is a must-see for cruise-loving holiday-makers and has become a treasured addition to our Caribbean itineraries.

On a stroll through the colonial old town and its colourful streets, you’ll find a hidden world of rich culture and a refreshing, laid-back lifestyle. Whether it’s discovering the diverse architecture or embracing authentic street music, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Be sure to have a drink at the Havana Café, watch a Tropicana cabaret and visit the famous Malecon promenade – all great Cuban highlights.

As the demand to visit this exotic island rises, MSC Cruises has sent two luxury ships to cruise there from December 2016 to April 2017. MSC Opera and MSC Armonia will be in Havana, Cuba’s capital,

over two days. This gives you time to take in the essence of the city, explore the surrounding tobacco fields, meet the locals and experience the history and architecture of a city, before cruising to the delights of Mexico, Jamaica and the Cayman Islands.

MSC Armonia will sail an additional culturally-diverse seven-night itinerary, taking in Belize and Honduras, adding even more new destinations to explore, as well as more time in Havana. MSC Cruises has also developed some exciting fly-cruise packages incorporating three days in Mexico and a seven-night Cuba cruise to make the booking process even easier.

MSC’s cruising allows you not only the chance to explore new itineraries but to take the time and relax on popular routes including ‘our home’, the Mediterranean, with even more inclusions. MSC’s Grand Mediterranean Tours departing from Venice from June 2016 to October 2016 is the perfect way to discover this stylish area of Europe, with good weather, good food and picturesque sights waiting to be seen. As you take the time to explore the cities of style like Malta, Dubrovnik, Florence and Barcelona, delight in the islands of Santorini and Mykonos and discover the elegance of Olbia in Sardinia, this 28 night cruise offers a view of every corner of the Mediterranean. In addition the inclusion of three free shore excursions, 30% discount on laundry and the ease of a free transfer to take you from one side of the Mediterranean to the other makes for an unforgettable cruise memory.

Tick Cuba off your bucket list or enjoy a Mediterranean cruise of a lifetime and MSC Cruises will offer an AU$50* per person member on board bonus to increase your cruise holiday experience.

Call RACT Travel today on 1300 368 111 or visit your local branch.

APRIL / MAY 2016

Journeys

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TRAVEL by RACT

Discover NZ’s hidden gems Aoraki/Mt Cook and Lake Pukaki

W

hether you are marvelling at the spectacular glaciers, picturesque fiords or simply relaxing in a thermal pool, New Zealand is magical by coach with Grand Pacific Tours. You’ll relax in armchair comfort as you travel through each region, feeling secure in the hands of a professional coach captain whose knowledge and experience includes numerous facts and figures, stories, legends and many laughs along the way.

19 Day Grand New Zealand Tour takes you at a relaxed pace through both the North and South Islands, with four two-night stays and four breathtaking cruises. As well as discovering

New Zealand’s iconic attractions, you’ll also explore the country’s lesser-known regions.

Your holiday begins with a tour of the North Island of New Zealand. Highlights include time in the beautiful Bay of Islands, cruising the turquoise waters of the bay encompassing 144 islands to the famous Hole in the Rock. Couple this with a plethora of activities to enjoy in cultural Rotorua, the hot-spot of fascinating Maori culture, thermal springs and boiling mud pools.

At the Hobbiton movie set you’ll experience a fascinating guided tour and learn about how this attraction came to be. It’s an inspiring story, from the making of The Lord of the Rings trilogy continuing through the three movies in The Hobbit series. You’ll also visit a unique New Zealand gem, the city of Napier, renowned for its eye-catching collection of beautiful art-deco buildings; and you’ll taste the vintages in the famous wine-producing region of Wairarapa.

After ten days in the North, you’ll explore New Zealand’s South Island. In contrast, the South Island provides a dramatic landscape where towering landscapes meet peaceful fiords. Highlights include the world famous TranzAlpine, which traverses the mighty Southern Alps through a sequence of alpine gorges, taking your breath away at every turn.

The tour also allows you to spend two nights in the adventure capital, Queenstown, board the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship to Walter Peak Station, the best way to enjoy Queenstown’s famed beauty. Journey south to embark on a magnificent cruise on Milford Sound, described as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’.

Let Grand Pacific Tours look after you as you experience this magical destination – call RACT Travel on 1300 368 111 or visit your local branch.

EX HOBART & LAUNCESTON PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE FROM

5849*

$

>> BEST VALUE NZ TOUR!

MEMBER’S BONUS SAVE $125 INCLUDES

RETURN AIRFARES

+ REcEiVE A FREE NZ TRAVEl GUidE**

19 Day New Zealand Showcase Multiple GUARANTEED departures

E

xperience the BEST of New Zealand on this fully escorted value for money tour. Discover all the ‘must see’ attractions from top to bottom such as cultural Rotorua, Art Deco Napier, the world famous TranzAlpine Rail Journey and scenic Milford Sound.

ALL INCLUSIVE Tour includes airfares, taxes, superior accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions.

*Conditions apply. Price valid for travel ex HBA/LST and includes prepaid taxes of $165. Price shown is for a cash payment credit card fees of up to 2% will apply. Prices & taxes are subject to change.**Saving is per person and has been deducted from advertised price. Travel Guide is per household. Offer varies on special group departure. No other special offers or discounts apply. Special offers apply to new bookings only until 31 May 2016. Availability is limited. Amounts payable to third parties not included. Offers can be withdrawn at any time without notice. RACT Travel Pty Ltd ATAS No. A11470 ABN 45 144 538 803.

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Journeys

APRIL / MAY 2016

TRAVEL by RACT

New Zealand, the small-group way Milford Sound and Mitre Peak

A

n Ultimate Small Group Tour of New Zealand is pure class!

As you experience ‘Middle Earth’ with Grand Pacific Tours, you’ll enjoy the highest level of comfort, service and quality without compromise.

Having no more than 20 travellers on each tour ensures a distinctly personal touch. The full-size coach has been configured with only

20 luxury leather reclining seats, complete with adjustable headrest and calf support for added comfort.

On board, the luxuries include woodgrain tray tables with built-in cup holders, personal storage areas, a stylish central galley equipped with a refrigerated drinking fountain, individual USB points at every seat, on-board Wi-Fi plus much more.

Experienced travellers continue to be impressed, one saying ‘The Ultimate coach is definitely the way to go if you’re looking for upscale travel. Besides the coach and the awesome locations, it wouldn’t be quite as good if we didn’t have the best driver ever!

Paul put the ‘class’ into an already classy operation. The coach was the envy of everyone wherever we stopped.’

Ultimate Small Group itineraries are specifically tailored for the discerning traveller, with emphasis placed on handpicked accommodation and iconic activities. Your Ultimate coach captains are simply the best and are there from start to finish, attending to your needs.

Selections of seven exciting itinerary options from 9 to 19 days are available, including a new Ultimate North Island Tour. These fully inclusive tours offer a number of exclusive extras including a deluxe travel set and access to a range of newspapers and magazines.

Each tour concludes with an intimate farewell dinner including selected beverages, offering a time to celebrate this unforgettable journey with new friends.

Travel within New Zealand is always an amazing experience and now you can enhance it with a dose of pure indulgence.

Like to know more? Call RACT Travel on 1300 368 111 or visit your local branch.

EX HOBART & LAUNCESTON PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE FROM

4664

$

*

20 LUXURY

LEATHER SEATS

MEMBER’S BONUS RECEIVE UP TO $720 BONUS VALUE PER COUPLE**

>> Multiple GUARANTEED departures

Ultimate Small Group Tours EXPERIENCE BUSINESS CLASS ON WHEELS The beauty of travelling aboard the Ultimate Coach in a small group is that every aspect of your holiday is personal. Be treated as a VIP and enjoy premium accommodation along with a number of exclusive extras.

MAXIMUM OF ONLY 20 TRAVELLERS The new, purpose-built Ultimate Coaches feature 20 luxury leather seats, panoramic viewing and a level of comfort unparalleled by any other vehicle.

The design is state of the art and complete with extensive onboard features including the latest finishes and technology.

7 ALL INCLUSIVE OPTIONS 9 - 19 DAYS All tours include airfares, taxes, premium accom, most meals, sightseeing & attractions. *Conditions apply. Price based on 9 Day Ultimate Tour ex HBA/LST and includes prepaid taxes of $165. Price shown is for a cash payment credit card fees of up to 2% will apply. Prices & taxes are subject to change. **Advertised bonus based on a free nights accommodation in Auckland (room only), an Auckland Hop On Hop Off Explorer day pass + low season discount off May & Sep departures only. Offer varies on other departure dates and South Island only tours, please enquire. Not valid on special group departures. No other special offers or discounts apply. Offers apply to new bookings only until 31 May 2016. Availability is limited. Amounts payable to third parties not included. Offers can be withdrawn at any time without notice. RACT Travel Pty Ltd ATAS No. A11470 ABN 45 144 538 803.

APRIL / MAY 2016

Journeys

57

TRAVEL by RACT

More car rental savings for RACT members

F

ancy a fun and easy getaway anytime soon? Here’s some good news for you. Thrifty Car Rental is RACT’s exclusive car hire partner and offers exclusive member savings all year round.

Thrifty services over 240 locations across Australia and New Zealand, and has a large range of vehicles to suit every need.

For holiday travel a compact SUV like the Mitsubishi ASX is a popular choice as it combines the efficiency of a small car with all the benefits of a traditional SUV – a spacious interior,

roomy boot and extra height to give you a better view of the road ahead and also the ease of getting in and out of the vehicle.

Whether you are after a smart and efficient SUV, an economical coupe, 4WD, family sedan, a luxury vehicle, a ute or even a truck, Thrifty has all your rental needs covered. Choose from a wide range of vehicles available throughout Australia and New Zealand to help set you free.

Have you thought about covering yourself when you are out on the road with a hire car? Reducing the risk on your vehicle for a small fee can often save you in the long run. As an RACT member, you’ll enjoy a $5* daily discount on Thrifty’s Ultimate Protection and reduce your risk to zero for complete peace of mind. Plus, a 30% off GPS hire* is sure to help you get around faster and easier.

Get in early to book the vehicle you want and ensure you don’t miss out on your exclusive savings with Thrifty – RACT members enjoy a discount of 15%* off the daily rates plus additional member benefits.

To find out more about all the exclusive benefits Thrifty offers RACT members or to make a booking, go to www.ract.com.au/thrifty or call RACT Travel on 1300 368 111.

Enjoy extra savings on Thrifty’s additional Member benefits*:

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Journeys

APRIL / MAY 2016

TRAVEL by RACT

The myth, mystery and must-sees of Greece

T

here are good reasons why Greece is on top of the wish-list for many travellers – among them, its history, sights, culture and food. The sun-drenched land is also soaked in the stories of our civilisation and visitors to Greece are often overwhelmed by myth, mystery and must-sees in this amazing destination.

Athens is the bustling, enduring capital of Greece. Visiting the Acropolis is a quintessential tourist experience. It is visible from almost anywhere in the city and changes colour throughout the day as the sun crosses the sky.

Heading offshore to hop across the Greek Islands opens up the incredible coastlines.

Watch the sunset over Santorini with your feet in the warm sand – enjoy the cuisine, beaches, shopping, culture and Mediterranean scenery – it will exceed your expectations.

Santorini is a photographer’s dream. White houses cling to the cliff next to the little church with the blue dome – the painted bows of fishing boats bob on crystal-clear water – rocky paths climb to vantage points to see the sunset – octopus sizzles on a grill, matched with a crisp, cold local wine.

From the cosmopolitan island of Mykonos, extraordinary Santorini sitting on the rim of a volcanic crater to the rustic, lovely scenery of Crete, all the islands of Greece offer a huge variety of destinations within one country.

Tempo Holidays itineraries are as full or as easy as you want. We take all the trouble out of planning, arranging and booking all the elements of your holiday and leave you to just enjoy yourself. Uncover our wide range of Greece trips and for a limited time enjoy 20%* off a number of cruises around the iconic Greek Islands.

Contact your local RACT Travel branch or call us on 1300 368 111.

GREEK ISLAND HOPPING Jewels of the Cyclades

8 days – departs Athens | From $1855* per person

MEMBER’S BONUS

20% OFF* PER PERSON

Discover the stunning white sandy beaches of the Aegean Islands, witness the iconic sunset in Santorini and explore the white-washed cubic houses of Mykonos.

Itinerary: Athens | Poliegos | Folengandros | Santorini | Antiparos | Paros | Delos | Mykonos | Syros | Kythnos | Athens Inclusions: Onboard accommodation in selected cabin category with private bathroom & air conditioning • Buffet breakfast and one main meal daily, including a Welcome Cocktail, a Greek Night, fun BBQ (weather permitting) & Captain’s Dinner • Use of games, snorkelling & fishing equipment (subject to availability) • Multilingual cruise escort

*Conditions apply. Prices are per person, on twin share basis. Prices are accurate at 11 Feb 16 and subject to change without notice. Deals and offers are subject to availability and may change without notice prior to reservation, confirmation and due to currency fluctuations. Discount available to 31 Mar 16. Prices advertised with discount. $1400 per person deposit is required within 5 days to secure reservation. Specific products may have other requirements explained at the time of booking. Valid for travel: Jewels of the Cyclades is valid for travel 07, 14, 28 May; 04, 18, 25 Jun 16. Full payment is required within 30 days of booking. Single supplements are extra and applicable to travellers in single rooms. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply depending on dates of travel. Port charges are excluded from these discounts. The price shown is for a cash payment – Credit card fees of up to 2% will apply. For any additional travel arrangements outside this offer service fees may apply. Please ask at the time of the booking for all details and conditions. RACT Travel Pty Ltd. ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS A11470.

APRIL / MAY 2016

Journeys

59

TRAVEL by RACT Experience spectacular overnight stays in Venice, New York and Lima (Callao), with an opportunity to visit Machu Picchu.

Enjoy world festivals, Venice’s Feast of St. John, Barcelona’s Grec Festival and a special event just for World Cruise guests, Australia Day in Cobh, Ireland.

But the destinations are only part of what make this voyage so enchanting.

Back onboard, your days are filled with enrichment programs that bring the colours, history and flavours of each region to life, along with freshly-prepared regional cuisine and entertainment provided by local performers.

In addition to travelling abroad and experiencing a myriad of exclusive programs, activities and events onboard, you’ll receive exceptional benefits.

You will earn up to $2085* onboard credit per stateroom, which you can redeem in venues such as specialty restaurants, boutiques and the Lotus Spa. A world cruise is, simply, the adventure of a lifetime. Your lifetime. An addition of epic proportions to your world of memories.

And it’s ready for you!

The adventure of your lifetime Venice,Italy

I

t’s not every day you have the chance to sail between some of the world’s most incredible cities, but with Princess Cruises, you can immerse yourself in fascinating history, exotic cultures and stunning natural beauty during a journey that’s as unforgettable as it is relaxing.

Unpack just once and explore the globe while relaxing in comfort amongst new friends – fellow world-travellers who share your passions for art, history and culture.

The 102-night Round World Cruise features eight new ports of call, with a new journey that travels above the Arctic Circle and to the Land of the Midnight Sun. Enjoy more time ashore with 14 late-night stays in Europe, Asia, North America and the South Pacific and 39 unique ports of call, covering the South Pacific, South America, the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and North America.

Contact your RACT Travel branch or call us on 1300 368 111.

THE JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME Reykjavik

Honningsvåg Tromsø

(Gravdal)

ICELAND

Arctic Circle

NORWAY

MEMBER’S BONUS $2085^ Onboard Credit

ENGLAND

London

Paris/Normandy

(Dover)

CANADA

(Le Havre)

IRELAND NOVA SCOTIA

Halifax

PORTUGAL

Charleston

Atlantic Ocean

Pitcairn Island

CROATIA MONTENEGRO

MONACO SPAIN

(Cádiz)

Kotor

ITALY

GREECE

Rome

(Civitavecchia)

Santorini

MALTA

Valletta

JORDAN Suez Canal

Aqaba Dubai

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Pacific Ocean

SRI LANKA

Colombo

COLOMBIA

Equator

ECUADOR

Manta FRENCH POLYNESIA

Genoa

Venice Rijeka

FRANCE

Cartagena

PANAMA Panama Canal

Lisbon Seville Monte Carlo

Miami

Equator

Bora Bora

(Cobh)

Barcelona

New York UNITED STATES

Pacific Ocean

Cork

International Date Line

Lofoten Islands Akureyri

Arctic Circle

PERU

Lima

(Callao)

Scenic Cruising

Machu Picchu

Pisco

Indian Ocean

South Atlantic Ocean

South Pacific Ocean

(San Martín)

Tahiti

AUSTRALIA

(Papeete)

Easter Island

Perth

South Pacific Ocean

Overnights in Venice, New York and Lima

Sea Princess 102 Days Melbourne to Sydney

(Fremantle)

Sydney Auckland Melbourne

*Fares are per person twin share from

From/To

Departs

Nights

WORL D CRUISE Sea Princess®

Melbourne to Sydney

22 May 17

102

Fares

Interior*

Oceanview*

Balcony*

Mini-suite*

Launch Fares

$20,599

$26,499

$33,349

$52,949

Your Fares

$19,599

$25,499

$32,349

$51,949

NEW ZEALAND

Onboard credit per stateroom^

$2,085

*Fares are per person, in AUD, in twin share, based on lead interior, oceanview, balcony & mini-suite staterooms available at time of publication, inclusive of all discounts, taxes, fees & port expenses (which are subject to change). Campaign valid 1 Mar - 30 Apr 16. Onboard credit offer applies for duration of campaign. Fares subject to availability and may fluctuate during the campaign. Valid for new bookings & not combinable with any other offer. Some oceanview staterooms have obstructed views. Fares correct at time of publication, offer may be withdrawn or varied any time without notice. ~Comparison launch fares are based on fares launched from Mar14 to Jun15. ^Onboard credit is per stateroom & is applied equally between first 2 passengers in stateroom. Credit is not transferable, non-refundable, not redeemable for cash & cannot be used at the medical centre or casino. Conditions to be read in conjunction with the Princess Cruises Booking & Passage Conditions. The price shown is for a cash payment – Credit card fees of up to 2% will apply. For any additional travel arrangements outside this offer service fees may apply. Please ask at the time of the booking for all conditions. RACT Travel Pty Ltd. ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS A11470.

CTC_122x183mm_v6.indd 60 6182-PR40_RACT Journeys APRIL / MAY 2016

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18/02/2016 3:18 PM

TRAVEL by RACT

Discover a continent of contrasts

Rio de Janiero

S

outh America combines locations of awe-inspiring natural beauty, a fascinating history and magnificent ruins of ancient civilizations, vibrant cities and a captivating array of cultures that make this a unique travel experience.

While the continent has something to offer every traveller; it can sometimes be overwhelming because of the wealth of attractions and countries to discover, the distances and the time required to travel between them.

The specialist team from the South America Tourism Office has designed a new tour that will incorporate even more of the sights of this unique continent at a great price.

The South American Voyager is a 25-day fly, tour and cruise program that combines the ‘must see’ attractions of Rio de Janeiro, the majestic Iguazu falls, cosmopolitan Buenos Aires, the colourful port city of Valparaiso and the Chilean capital of Santiago as well as a truly special voyage along the southern channels and fjords on board Holland America Line’s MS Zandaam. An optional post-tour to Cuzco and Machu Picchu is available.

You’ll experience ‘the South America that not everybody sees’ with a trip to the beautiful and remote regions of Patagonia. You will be cruising along the Chilean coast with its landscapes of mountain peaks, lush valleys and glaciers, navigating as far south as the Beagle Channel and Cape Horn. Stops along the way include the portside cities of Puerto Montt, Ushuaia, Montevideo and even the isolated Falkland Islands, as the cruise finishes in Buenos Aires, Argentina (a reverse itinerary is also available).

The 25 day South American Voyager tour starts from $7780* per person twin share, including flights ex Sydney. Accommodation is based on tourist superior hotels and interior cabin aboard the cruise. Upgrades to ocean view and veranda suites start at an additional $325* per person. (Taxes are approximately $790* plus $612* port charges). Extensions to the Galapagos Islands or the Amazon can be added.

This program has been prepared by the South America Tourism Office, who have been delivering unique travel experiences to South and Central America for the past 15 years. Using a mixture of quality local and internationally-operated hotels and knowledgeable bilingual guides, they specialise in designing creative itineraries throughout Latin America.

For more information on the South American Voyager, please contact your local RACT Travel office or call 1300 368 111.

‘SOUTH AMERICAN VOYAGER’ 25 DAYS/24 NIGHTS - ESCORTED GROUP TOUR^ FROM $7663* pp (twin share)

HIGHLIGHTS: Rio de Janeiro | Iguazu Falls | Buenos Aires 14 Days ‘South America Passage’ Cruise| Valparaiso | Santiago TOUR INCLUSIONS: MEMBER’S BONUS SAVE $300 PER PERSON*

• International air ex. Sydney & internal flights* • Tourist superior/First class hotels • Selected meals: 24 breakfasts, 13 lunches,15 dinners • Comprehensive sightseeing, excursions & airport transfers with local English speaking guides • Local Tour Escorts within South America^

25 DAYS

DEPARTURE DATES: • 23 OCT ‘16 • 20 NOV ‘16 • 13 MAR ’17

• 31 OCT ’ 16 • 28 NOV ‘16 ASK ABOUT OUR PRE-TOUR 6 DAY E XTENSION TO PERU

ESCORTED GROUP TOUR^

Conditions apply. Prices are correct as at 12Feb16 and are per person, twin share and includes the Member Bonus discount. Valid for sale until 30Jun16. Valid for travel to 30Nov16.

Booking form and $1200pp deposit required at time of booking. Enquire for single traveller cost. Price excludes taxes & surcharges. Air taxes are approx. $790pp plus $612pp cruise port taxes. Departures from Brisbane or Melbourne are an additional $150pp. Departure dates are guaranteed. ^Tour escort guaranteed with minimum of 10 passengers.

Seasonal Surcharges may apply. The price shown is for a cash payment – Credit card fees of up to 2% will apply. For any additional travel arrangements outside this offer service fees may apply. Please check all details with your consultant at time of booking. RACT Travel Pty Ltd. ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS A11470

APRIL / MAY 2016

Journeys

61

EXCITING holiday

destinations

US$100 ONBOARD CREDIT^

INCLUDES TRANSFERS

GRAND MEDITERRANEAN From

$2,359*

TAHITIAN TREASURES

per person, twin share

Itinerary: Venice > Bari > Katakolon > Santorini > Piraeus > Corfu > Kotor > Venice > Genoa > Naples > Messina > Valletta > Palma de Mallorca > Barcelona > Marseille > Genoa

From

$4,199*

per person, twin share

Includes: • 2 nights pre-cruise accommodation in Venice staying at the Hotel President in a standard double room with cold buffet breakfast • Venice walk with St. Marks Basilica tour • Private transfer from hotel to Venice port • 7 night cruise onboard MSC ORCHESTRA from Venice return • Shared transfer from Venice port to Genoa port • 7 night cruise onboard MSC POESIA from Genoa return • Main meals~ & entertainment onboard both ships • Private transfer from Genoa port to hotel • 1 night post-cruise accommodation in Genoa staying at the Cit Hotels Britannia in a standard double room with cold buffet breakfast • Port charges & government fees.

Includes: • 3 nights pre-cruise accommodation in Honolulu staying at the Moana Surfrider, Westin Resort in a Banyan City Room • 17 night cruise onboard CELEBRITY SOLSTICE from Honolulu to Sydney • ~Main meals, gratuities & entertainment onboard • Port charges & government fees.

Cruise Departs: 09 October 2016

Cruise Departs: 02 October 2017

a member of

Itinerary: Honolulu > Lahaina (Maui) > Papeete > Bora Bora > Auckland > Bay of Islands > Sydney

For further information contact your nearest branch 1300 368 111 or www.ract.com.au/travel Rosny 6212 6777 Burnie 6434 2955 Ulverstone 6425 8050 Devonport 6421 1977 Hobart - Murray St 6232 6455 CRUISE TRAVEL CENTRE 6222 9222 - Hobart Kingston 6242 3211 Launceston 6335 5655

FREE AIRPORT TRANSFERS±

NEW ZEALAND NORTH ISLAND SELF DRIVE From

$195*

per person, twin share (land only)

KIDS STAY FREE#

WAKE UP IN HAWAI‘I From

$699

adult, * per family share (land only)

$49*per child

Includes: • 7 day Britz Campervan Hire - Hi Top 2BB. Based on Auckland Airport ppickupp and dropp off • Unlimited kilometres.

Includes: • 5 nights accommodation at the Aston Waikiki Circle in a City View Hotel Room# • Return airport transfers • Blu-ray, DVD and PlayStation 3 game rentals • WiFi access in room and resort.

Travel: 1 May – 30 Sep 16

Travel: 16 Aug - 8 Sep 16, 4 Oct - 30 Nov 16

4 FREE NIGHTS^^

1 FREE NIGHT±±

CALIFORNIA FUN From

$725

adult, * per family share

PHUKET, THAILAND PHUKET

(land only)

From

$335*per child Includes: • 5 nights at the Castle Inn & Suites in a Run of House Room • Return airport transfers • 2-Day Disneyland Resort One Park Per Day ticket • 2 children 9 years and under stay FREE. Travel: 10 Apr - 26 May 16, 30 May - 16 Jun 16, 7 Sep - 9 Oct 16, 1 Nov - 15 Dec 16

$1,019

person, * per twin share

Travel: 11 Apr – 31 Oct 16

SAVE UP TO 10%

VIP FIJI

From

(land only)

Includes: • 8 nights accommodation at Centara Grand Beach Resort Phuket in a Deluxe Ocean Facing Room • Return airport transfers • Full breakfast daily • FREE Phuket Introduction Tour~ • FREE Phuket Privileges card with discounts at restaurants, bars, entertainment and shopping~.

$1,299

person, * per twin share (land only)

SAVE UP TO 25%†

BLUE LAGOON CRUISE, FIJI From

$1,525

person, * per twin share

Includes: • 8 nights accommodation at the Outrigger Fiji Beach Resort in a Deluxe Ocean View Room • Return airport transfers • FREE Talai VIP butler service • champagne & canapés delivered to your bure daily • evening turndown service • personalised guest service including unpacking of bags and escorts • FREE use of the 24 hour fitness centre, water activities and use of tennis court • Welcome drink on arrival.

Includes: • 4 night Blue Lagoon Wanderer Cruise in a Hibiscus Deck cabin • All meals for cruise duration • Shore excursions and associated entrance fees • FREE Champagne cocktail • FREE Blue Lagoon Cruise souvenir.

Travel: 1 Nov - 26 Dec 16, 16 Jan - 31 Mar 17

Travel: 3 Oct 16 – 31 Mar 17

(land only)

Conditions Apply: * Offers end on 31May16, 31May16 unless sold out prior. prior All prices correct as at 01Feb16 but may uctuate uctuate if surcharges surcharges, fees, fees taxes or currency currenc change and nd is subject to availability. availability All savings and bonus nights (if applicable) are included in the advertised price price. The prices shown are for a cash payment payment. Cre Credit card fees of up to 2% will apply. For any additional travel arrangements outside these offers service fees may apply. Please ask at time of booking. All offers valid for new bookings only and not combinable with any other offer. Airfares are not included in the advertised price. Amounts payable to third parties not included.

Please check all prices, availability and other information with your travel consultant before booking. Limited availability. Other departure dates are available and prices are on application. A limited number of cabins are available at the prices shown and once these have sold out pricing may be withdrawn and/or may increase. Single supplements may be extra. Offers may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing may vary until full payment is received. Cancellation fees may apply. Domestic and international airfares are not included. Vaccinations, visas and travel insurance not included. Where accommodation is included, early check-in and/or late checkout & additional accommodation may be required at additional expense due to ight schedules. Further restrictions may apply. For specic offer and terms & conditions, please contact your nearest RACT Travel ofce. Grand Mediterranean: Price is based on category I1- Inside Bella stateroom.

Pricing & availability for these categories are based on staterooms held on allocation. Gratuities are not included & are payable onboard. ~Main meals are included in selected restaurants, specialty restaurants may incur a surcharge. Tahitian Treasures: Price is based on category 11 - Inside Stateroom. Pricing & availability for these categories are based on staterooms held on allocation. ~Main meals are included in selected restaurants, specialty restaurants may incur a surcharge. ^Onboard credit is per stateroom is not transferable, non-refundable, not redeemable for cash and cannot be used at the medical centre or casino. ±New Zealand North Island Self Drive: Offer is subject to vehicle availability. Drivers must be 25 years of age or over & hold a current & full motor vehicle driver licence. Rentals are subject to the Terms & Conditions of Britz rental agreement & the Britz standard driver & credit qualications. Rental days are based on a 24 hour period.

Van/Car hire prices include unlimited kilometres. Van/Car hire excludes bond, fuel, tolls, additional insurances & excess reduction options & tax on these. #Hawaii: A compulsory daily resort fee of USD18 per room per day is included in the advertised price however is payable direct to the resort upon check out. Pricing for all accommodation in this package is based on check in on 24Aug16 & is correct at time of printing however is subject to change at the discretion of the Hotel operator. These prices should be used as a guide only. Up to 2 children 17 years & under stay free when using existing bedding. ±±California: Advertised price based on 2 adults and 2 children (2–9 years) sharing existing bedding. ^^Phuket: Only available when booking return seat in coach transfers; max one tour per person and one privilege card per booking. †Blue Lagoon Cruise Fiji: 6 month advance booking required to receive 25% cruise discount. The CRUISE TEAM, Qantas Holidays and Helloworld booking terms and conditions apply, refer to www.helloworld.com.au. Offers must be requested at time of booking. RACT Travel Pty Ltd ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS No. A11470.

TRAVEL by RACT

Explore the gardens of the world

A

ustralia’s leading garden travel operator Botanica World Discoveries has announced an outstanding line-up of special hosts and guest lecturers for its 2016/17 cruise and touring program.

Having built an enviable reputation for taking guests to some of the world’s most exciting private gardens and floral showcases as part of a cruise or land tour hosted by specialist botanical guides, Botanica’s itineraries also incorporate history, art, music and gourmet themes.

The 2016/17 brochure offers a choice of more than 35 international and domestic land tours, river and small-ship coastal cruises that take small-sized groups of no more than 30 like-minded travellers to visit beautiful private and public gardens.

Commenting on the new program, Botanica Founder and Co-Owner, Judy Vanrenen said ‘Our guest lecturers and experienced guides are what set Botanica apart and so we are delighted to share news of some of our featured experts for our new 2016/17 program. Whether you are a garden lover or simply want to gain a more cultured insight into your destination, we are confident that there is a cruise or tour to suit all interests.’

Botanica holidays are all-inclusive and cover most meals, accommodation, a dedicated botanical guide and airport transfers, tipping and port charges.

Even though international currencies continue to fluctuate, Botanica offers a price guarantee on its tours and cruises once deposits are paid, offering complete peace of mind.

Travellers can also design their own itinerary by combining holidays and Botanica is offering a saving of $1000* per couple when you combine two cruises or tours of more than 10 days length each.

Terms and conditions apply and offer is valid until 31 October 2016.

For more information, contact RACT Travel on 1300 368 111 or call in to your local branch.

MEMBER’S BONUS SAVE $200 PER COUPLE#

Gardens – History – Art – Music – Gourmet www.botanica.travel

11 Day British Isles, Castles, Gardens, History & Birdlife Cruise – Scotland, Ireland, Wales & England Departure: 28 May 2017

INCLUDED Special Guest Speaker – Monty Don. Garden author, journalist and presenter, Monty Don will join your cruise where he will conduct an informative lecture in Dublin.

Private small ship cruise with like minded travellers.

Cruise around the British Isles in full bloom of spring.

Visit private gardens landing at their own jetty in a zodiac.

See the iconic gardens of Bodnant, Tresco, Inverewe, Mount Stewart & Mount Usher.

Visit the villages of Portmeirion and Waterford and cruise the remote Hebridean Islands.

This unique cruise is not to be missed and is filling fast.

Cruise Coach No. of nights stay

10

MS Hebridean Sky Inverewe Gardens

Isle of Mull Scotland Aberdeen Isle of Iona Isle of Gigha Leith Isle of Jura Edinburgh Belfast Dublin England Bodnant Garden Ireland Portmeirion Waterford Snowdonia National Park

North Atlantic Ocean

Meet Monty Don

Wales

From $13,495* pp, twin share From $19,495* solo traveller

Isles of Scilly

BTBNC11

London Portsmouth

English Channel

*Conditions apply. Prices are correct as at 11 January 2016 but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Prices based on a Standard suite. A limited number of member discounts available. #RACT MEMBER BONUS: Save an additional $200 per couple ($100 pp) on new bookings on the advertised packages BTBNC11 only. Book by 31 May 2016 to receive member discount. A limited number of member discounts available. The price shown is for a cash payment – Credit card fees of up to 2% will apply.

For any additional travel arrangements outside this offer service fees may apply. Please ask at the time of booking. Australian Pacific Touring Pty Ltd ABN 44 004 684 619. ATAS No. A10825. RACT Travel Pty Ltd. ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS No. A11470. APT3748

64

Journeys

APRIL / MAY 2016

TRAVEL by RACT

Wherever the road may take you

View over Lake Wakitipu towards Glenorchy, Southern Alps

W

elcome to New Zealand’s South Island, the land of world-famous glaciers, alpine lakes and majestic mountains.

New Zealand is a country filled with gems that will strike awe into even the most intrepid of travellers. As you immerse yourself in South Island’s stunning landscape and lifestyle, you can experience the serenity and pure silence of a scenic cruise on the mighty Milford Sound; catch the buzz of adventure-sport capital, Queenstown; and admire the magnificent alpine scenery of Aoraki/Mt Cook, New Zealand’s highest peak.

You can travel off the beaten track and explore the windswept shores of the South Island’s isolated West Coast, a remote stretch of coastline filled with fascinating history.

Along the way, observe the local wildlife – migrating whales, fur seals and penguins are often spotted along the coasts. It’s an easy drive from Christchurch to the Banks Peninsula and Te Waewae Bay, where you are likely to see the world’s smallest dolphin – the Hector dolphin is an endangered species that is found only in New Zealand waters.

On the South Island, there are natural wonders and national parks to explore, with walking tracks for every fitness level. Tackle the world’s famous Heaphy, Routeburn or Milford Tracks or just enjoy a short walk to stretch your legs – whatever you choose, the stunning scenery will take your breath away.

Talk to your RACT Travel consultant today about the wonderful self-drive packages available to make the most of your stay in New Zealand. Why not try our 11 day Southern Motorhome Adventure package starting from $1530* per person twin share. Your consultant can provide you with destination suggestions and popular sightseeing ideas for your trip, alternatively, you can simply book your motorhome hire and follow wherever the road may take you.

Call RACT Travel on 1300 368 111 or visit your local branch

11 Day

MEMBER’S BONUS

Southern Motorhome Adventure

$50^ Fuel Voucher

$1530 from

*

per person, twin share

GET RIGHT

ADVENTURES a member of

•

5 nights at Department of Conservation campsites and 5 nights at Kiwi Holiday Parks powered sites

•

11 Motorhome hire

•

Interislander Ferry Crossing

•

Fox Glacier Terminal Face Walk

•

TSS Earnslaw Cruise & Dinner

•

Shotover Jet Boat Ride

•

Milford Sound Nature Cruise

•

Cadbury World Tour & Cafe

•

Mt John Stargazing Tour

For further information please call 1300 368 111 or contact your nearest branch Rosny 6212 6777 Burnie 6434 2955 Ulverstone 6425 8050 www.ract.com.au/travel Devonport 6421 1977 Hobart - Murray St 6232 6455 6242 3211 Launceston 6335 5655 Kingston

*Terms & Conditions: Prices correct as at 12 Feb 2016. Prices are for a 2 Berth hire and based on per person, twin share. Valid for new bookings made by 30 Sep 2016. All normal Budget terms & conditions apply. ^Member Bonus: NZ$50 fuel voucher. Voucher is non-transferable & may not be redeemed for cash. Limit one per booking. Not valid in conjunction with any other offers. Price excludes airfares, taxes, visas, insurance & compulsory payments to third parties. Prices subject to availability and change. The price shown is for a cash payment – Credit card fees of up to 2% will apply. For any additional travel arrangements outside of this offer service fees may apply. Further conditions apply, please ask at the time of booking for full details. RACT Travel Pty Ltd ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS A11470.

APRIL / MAY 2016

Journeys

65

TRAVEL by RACT

More experiences, more destinations s Australia’s largest fleet, P&O Cruises boasts more exotic destinations, more departure ports and more experiences A than any other cruise line.

You’ll welcome each morning onboard Pacific Dawn and look out to the ocean from her observation deck. Through the day and evening, you can test your courage at P&O Edge, Australia’s largest adventure park at sea, or dance the night away in The Dome. With 11 levels to explore, there’s equally as much to enjoy onboard Pacific Pearl – be dazzled by original production shows at the Marquee Theatre, watch movies under the stars or feast at one of six restaurants.

For more space to truly get away from it all, P&O’s newest ships Pacific Aria and Pacific Eden are the perfect escape. Take up a prime position by the climate-controlled top-deck pool, where you can relax during the day – then revel in live music and cocktails after dark. Indulge in your love of Italian fare at Angelo’s and experience love at first bite at Dragon Lady, home to Pan Asian cuisine in an intimate, mysterious setting. After a show, why not head to the Blue Room for live tunes all day (and all night) long.

Your inner adventurer will love P&O’s Papua New Guinea holidays from Brisbane. You can join a game of Trobriand cricket with Kiriwina locals, take a step back in time on Kitava Island or explore World War II history in fascinating Rabaul. On Madang, witness the unique Goroka Mud Men in action, take in the sights and sounds of Alotau’s cultural festival or visit one of the most peaceful places on Earth, the Conflict Islands.

Fremantle is your departure point for experiencing intriguing Indonesia. Highlights include a journey up Mount Bromo in Probolinggo to look inside a live volcano, a visit to a 9th century Buddhist temple in Borobudur or a shore tour* to UNESCO World-Heritage Site Komodo Island to see majestic Komodo dragons laze in the sun. And when the day is over, retire to your comfortable, cool and luxurious ship to relax and prepare for tomorrow’s adventure.

Whether you’re hunting for secluded sands, a relaxing retreat or a cultural feast for the senses, you won’t find a holiday like P&O anywhere else. *Charges apply to shore tours.

For all the details, call RACT Travel on 1300 368 111 or visit your local branch.

MEMBER’S BONUS Includes Onboard Credit*

Date

Cruise

Nights

Itinerary

7 Jun 16

E633

12

FREMANTLE – KOMODO ISLAND – UJUNG PANDANG – PROBOLINGGO – BENOA – FREMANTLE

27 Jun 16

P628

10

SYDNEY – NOUMEA – LIFOU – VILA – MYSTERY ISLAND – SYDNEY

29 Jul 16

A634

10

BRISBANE – ALOTAU – KITAVA – RABAUL – KIRIWINA ISLAND – CONFLICT ISLANDS – BRISBANE

24 Sep 16

W642

7

BRISBANE – AIRLIE BEACH – YORKEYS KNOB – PORT DOUGLAS – WILLIS ISLAND (SCENIC CRUISING) – BRISBANE

14 Nov 16

P648

10

SYDNEY – NOUMEA – MARE – VILA – VANUATU – ISLE OF PINES – SYDNEY

P L E A S E C O N TAC T R AC T T R AV E L F O R T H E B E S T AVA I L A B L E P R IC E S , A LT E R N AT I V E VOYAG E S & S A I L I N G DAT E S C R U I S I N G W I T H P& O. *Conditions Apply. Member Bonus onboard credit per cabin offer applies to twin share cabin and for the first 2 guests only in a room. Credit not transferrable, not redeemable for cash and cannot be used at the medical centre or casino. Offer subject to availability and change at time of booking. Offers can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please check all prices, availability and other information with your RACT Travel consultant before booking. Valid for new bookings only. To be read in conjunction with the P&O Cruise Australia Booking and Passage Conditions. Credit card fees of up to 2% may apply, please ask at time of booking. RACT Travel Pty Ltd. ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS No. A11470.

66 CAR6181_PO17_RACT-CTC_122x183mm_v3.indd Journeys APRIL / MAY 2016

1

3/02/2016 10:28 AM

TRAVEL by RACT explore awe-inspiring Uluru and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), meet the locals at Alice Springs and hike along the rim of Kings Canyon for incredible views of Watarrka National Park. You’ll watch a stunning sunrise over Kata Tjuta and Uluru, hear timeless stories from an indigenous guide and see ancient Aboriginal rock art.

Explore Australia’s iconic Red Centre iscovering Central Australia is a must-do for travellers from Australia and abroad.

Full of rich and fascinating experiences, it’s the perfect place for a getaway that D is sure to leave you refreshed and smiling. In Australia’s Red Centre you’ll experience traditional Aboriginal history and culture, observe the changing colours of the landscape and discover the region’s amazing geological features.

So come and join one of AAT Kings’ Inspiring Journeys and let their experienced yet down-to-earth driver-guides bring Australia’s Red Centre to life. With their local knowledge and wonderful stories you can sit back and relax while they do all the driving for you.

With this exclusive small-group experience we’ve made it easy for you by including all the essential sights and the lesser-known hidden treasures of the Red Centre in one awesome trip. On AAT Kings’ 5-day Outback Australia – The Colour of Red Inspiring Journey, you’ll

Your guides will immerse you in the culture of the traditional land-owners of the region, the Anangu people, and you’ll come away with a deeper understanding of what makes the Red Centre unique.

All of this, coupled with exclusive first-class dining experiences and complimentary refreshments along the way, makes for an incredible trip to remember.

Outback Australia – The Colour of Red is priced from $2276*per person – twin share (land only). Selected departures are available from 15 April 2016 – 13 Oct 2017. RACT members can save up to $250* per couple when the trip is booked and deposited before 31 December 2016.

RACT members can also save 5%* off all AAT Kings-operated guided holidays.

For more information visit your nearest RACT Branch or call us on 1300 368 111.

Because you deserve something special

Outback Australia – The Colour of Red

MEMBER’S BONUS SAVE UP TO

$250*

Ayers Rock to Alice Springs (also available in reverse)

5 Day Inspiring Journey from • Explore the domes of Kata Tjuta • Toast an Uluru sunset with gourmet canapés and wine • Discover Aboriginal rock art at Uluru

$2276

*

per person, twin share

per couple

• Dine ‘Under a Desert Moon’ at Kings Canyon Resort • Hike to the top of Kings Canyon for magnificent views • Take a dip in Ellery Creek Big Hole • Includes breakfast and dinner daily and some lunches • Travel by small vehicle with less than 20 guests

*Conditions: Prices are per person, land only, twin share. RACT member discount of 5% has been included in the from price. Valid for travel on selected departures from 15 Apr 2016–13 Oct 2017. Blackout departure dates may apply. Subject to availability and seasonal surcharge. Member bonus valid on new bookings only to 30 Nov 2016. The price shown is for a cash payment – Credit card fees of up to 2% will apply. For any additional travel arrangements outside this offer service fees may apply. Please ask at the time of the booking. AAT Kings booking conditions apply. ATAS 10527. RACT Travel Pty Ltd ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS A11470. AAT11356

11356 ACT Journeys Ad.indd 1

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when paid in full by 15 Feb 2016