Journeys August/September 2017

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IN OUR COMMUNITY

In the June/July issue of Journeys we asked you to have your say via our Member Hub on a fair time frame for the phaseout of unleaded (91RON) petrol.

Below are some of your responses.

MICHAEL: The only FAIR time frame for phasing out 91RON fuel is when the government has convinced a majority of voters that the science has proved that this will actually benefit the environment.

DOUGLAS: If you research a little more you’ll see that the government is considering five options. Banning of 91RON is just one of the five. The others relate to the sulphur content of the fuels.

The fact that Australia’s current fuel quality standard is lower than most OECD countries should make us feel embarrassed.

PAUL: I use only 95 petrol with ethanol from United. My three cars run better on this mix than 91RON. With the increase in Euro cars on Australian roads 91RON is becoming irrelevant because the Euros need 95 octane to run effectively.

MICHAEL: From a number of articles I have read, it is not petrol that is the problem – it’s the emissions from diesel fuel! For years we have been led to believe that diesel is the saviour, but this may not be so.

If the government phases out 91RON and forces us to buy the dearer 95RON, then they will pocket more in taxes and GST. What a stealthy way to hit the motoring public! United’s E10 is less polluting and my cars run better on it. Shouldn’t we be promoting more ethanol in our fuel?

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Your views Sign of the times

When I visited New Zealand I was impressed by their street signs. They seemed to be higher and in larger print than ours; they appeared to be there to be seen as they should be. I find ours too low and small and become distracted from concentrating on driving when looking for them. Could this be looked into?

Beryl Manning, Kingston

From our Advocacy team: We agree that there are a lot of great examples of road safety practices in New Zealand, which has quite a comparable road environment to Tasmania.

We often reference the way they do things when advocating on certain issues and will be happy to add your suggestion to the list.

Need for speed

I emigrated from the UK to Australia in 1991, and at that time the normal speed of traffic on UK motorways was approx 90mph, some 20mph over the speed limit of 70. This made motorway driving an exciting and sometimes nerve-wracking business involving high degrees of concentration and anticipation – not perhaps ideal.

I have returned to the UK on numerous occasions since, and sometime in the 1990s speed cameras were introduced on just about every motorway gantry, I believe without warning the public. Needless to say lots of people received infringement notices and some even lost their licences due to multiple infringements on the same journey. A little draconian maybe, but it sure was effective. Suddenly traffic drove at what seemed a very sedate (and undoubtedly much safer) speed, making motorway driving a far more relaxed and pleasant experience. I’m not sure what lessons this has for Australia, as our cross-country motorways don’t carry anything like the same traffic volumes, and we seem to drive closer to the speed limits anyway. Certainly seems pretty irrelevant to Tasmania, but may be useful on urban freeways in the Hobart area.

Christina Juliana Read, Sassafras

Parking problems

I wholeheartedly agree with your recent correspondent about car parks (June/July Journeys).

The utilities are huge cars, often with tow bars stuck right out into lanes, so that drivers have to detour around them.

It is impossible to see above, around, through or under these vehicles when trying

to back out. I have many dents on my small hatchback from large doors opening and not enough room for them to do so without hitting other cars.

Car parks need to have dedicated areas for these large monsters.

Beverley Burgess, Geeveston

Airport roundabout

Having also travelled on the Tasman Hwy for a few years, and reading Rod Pursell’s sensible observations in the June/July Journeys edition, perhaps instead of a quick unrealistic cheap fix with ‘zip-merging’, a more permanent fix could be undertaken.

Make the right lane leading to the roundabout a ‘right-turn only lane’, complete with concrete dividing so vehicles once in lane must turn right and direct the traffic into the airport. Widen and continue the left lane through the roundabout (making two lanes on only the left side), then traffic travelling through towards Midway Point would flow better.

This would be relatively inexpensive and a massive improvement until a flyover is built.

While they are at it, might be a good idea to correct the highway before the Tasman Bridge where the flow of traffic from Rosny attempts to cross the highway to access Lindisfarne, while at same time traffic heading to the Tasman Bridge attempts to get in the left-side lane to avoid stopping at the traffic light.

David Batten, Dodges Ferry

Be seen, be safe

I read with interest the comments on cyclists in the June/July issue of Journeys magazine. I ride a bike. The more important concern for me is the number of cyclists I see riding without lights or high visibility clothing. You can get a flashing red light and hi-vis vest for under $20.

BE SEEN, BE SAFE. Yes passing 1 to 1.5 meters on country roads is a problem. Giving cyclists this distance on country roads would see motorists in the ditch on the right-hand side most of the time.

Registration of bikes has been around for years and will still be discussed for years to come.

Being able to share the road is a privilege, whether you ride a bike or drive a vehicle.

Until the law is changed it is what it is, show some respect for other users.

Derek Thompson, Deloraine

IN OUR COMMUNITY

Road rules – using headlights and fog lights Due to a production error, some of the Tasmanian Road Rules about using headlights and fog lights were omitted from last issue. We have chosen to publish them again, in full, for clarity.

High beam: A driver must not use their headlights on high beam if travelling: • Less than 200m behind a vehicle travelling in the same direction.

• Less than 200m from an oncoming vehicle.

It is an offence to flash the vehicle’s headlights unless the vehicle is being used to respond to an emergency.

Must not dazzle: A driver must not use any light fitted to their vehicle that may dazzle another road user.

Fog lights: A driver is only permitted to use fog lights if driving in fog, mist or other atmospheric conditions that restricts visibility.

Spot lights: A driver may only use a spot or search light if: • The vehicle is stationary and the light is being used for making adjustments or repairs to a vehicle. The light must not be projected more than six metres.

• The light is used temporarily to read a house number or noticeboard.

Lights: When driving at night, or in conditions where there is insufficient daylight to render a person dressed in dark clothing discernible at a distance of 100m, a driver’s vehicle must have clearly visible: • Headlights; • Tail lights; • Number plate lights; • Clearance lights and side marker lights if they are fitted to the vehicle.

It is recommended that in some daytime situations, driving with the vehicle’s headlights on can improve the likelihood of being seen by other road users.

Note: The RACT recommends low-beam headlights be used when highway driving, even during the day.

We welcome letters on any motoring or travel-related topic. Keep them brief – we reserve the right to edit.

Email journeys@ract.com.au and please include your full name, member number and address, including suburb.

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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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LIFE ON THE MOVE

FIRST DRIVES with Paula Sward

Subaru XV

J

ourneys editor PAULA SWARD test drives the new Subaru XV and finds it’s just as good off-road as on.

Subaru is touting its new-model XV as a ‘more fun, more usable SUV’. I think they should add ‘flexible’ to that tagline, as that’s certainly what I experienced during my launch drive from the Snowy Mountains to Merimbula on the New South Wales coast.

The new model is essentially the Impreza with an SUV adaptation, which means on sealed urban roads it drives smoothly and is quite nimble, but when it gets into the rough stuff is when the XV comes into its own.

The 4WD capability was tested to its limits during our drive – icy bitumen, tight corners and deeply potholed unsealed roads showed that its key feature is flexibility.

Move over When we departed the picturesque Lake – we’re in for Crackenback Resort & Spa it was a chilly -8C – even our in-car water bottles were frozen!

Fortunately we’d been given the top-spec 2.0i-S, with heated seats, so before long our fingers and toes had thawed out and we were able to enjoy the spectacular scenery of this alpine region. Well, what we could see, at least. There were places where the fog was so thick we could barely see 100m in front of the car, which made for some interesting driving. Fortunately the XV showed it was more than up to the task.

My co-driver Mark Borlace, from RAA in South Australia, really put it through its paces on the unsealed section of Bobundara Rd, south-east of Berridale, demonstrating that a car of this design is easily capable of handling c-class roads. With its 220mm ground clearance, a benchmark of any small-size SUV in its class, we only 26

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AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2017

bottomed out once during this section, which considering the task at hand was very impressive.

When I took the wheel, we traversed the Snowy Mountains Highway down Brown Mountain, a sealed road of tight, winding corners and steep downhill gradient. It was also still damp from the heavy morning frost, but by trusting the vehicle’s design and capability, along with the flexibility of being able to downshift gears via the steering wheel-mounted paddles to assist in reducing speed, I was quite comfortable in the challenge.

Subaru has elected not to develop a manual transmission for the new XV, instead fitting all with its Linaertronic CVT auto.

While I noticed some additional engine noise during the sealed road sections as the CVT worked through its ‘ratios’, the added flexibility of the steering wheel-mounted gear shift adds that conventional auto transmission feel.

Also across the range is Active Torque millennials Vectoring, which sends drive to where it is this one too. needed, helping with steering and handling control, and X-mode, allowing the vehicle’s electronic assistance systems to take control when tackling steep off-road declines. This was well-tested during our drive, with the vehicle more than up to the challenge. See the video demo at ract.com.au/subaruxv-review.

The new model XV was awarded a 5-star ANCAP safety rating, although the manufacturer has neglected to put autonomous emergency braking (AEB) in the base spec. This is something they will have to address in their next update if they want to keep this rating, as ANCAP is tightening its requirements from next year.

The higher-spec 2.0i-L, 2.0i Premium and 2.0i-S are all fitted with the third generation of Subaru’s EyeSight driver assist system, which for the first time includes lane keep assist, as well

LIFE ON THE MOVE

clockwise from above left:

The new Subaru XV is a flexible option for many uses; Lake Crackenback Resort & Spa.

as enhanced pedestrian avoidance and pre-collision braking assist, adaptive cruise control, lead vehicle start alert and lane departure warning. At first the lane keep assist is disconcerting, but I know this will become more prevalent as vehicles upgrade their safety credentials, and is a welcome addition.

The fully loaded 2.0i-S also gets Vision Assist with blind spot detection, lane change assist and rear cross-traffic alert. Also new for Subaru is the Reverse AEB in this spec, assisting drivers in preventing bingles when reversing.

Under the bonnet all models are fitted with Subaru’s 2.0L four-cylinder petrol Boxer engine. Maximum power of 115kW is produced well up the rev range at 6000 RPM with respectable if not earth-shattering torque of 196Nm available at 4000 RPM. Combined cycle fuel economy is listed as 7.0L/100km but that will depend on your driving style.

The styling on the new-model SUV is definitely aimed at its ‘millennials’ target market. The interior is sleek and streamlined, with the base spec having carbon fibre styled dash and door panel trimmings, along with contrast stitching in the XV’s signature Sunshine Orange. You can also choose between charcoal and light grey contrast in the cloth interior. Moving up to the 2.0i-L and 2.0i-P you get ‘premium cloth seating and upgraded door panels’, although I fail to see a marked difference and prefer the more subdued tones of the base spec. These variants do also come with electric sunroof, dual-zone air conditioning and electric folding mirrors, which along with EyeSight justify the increase in purchase price.

The top-spec 2.0i-S is an impressive jump with leather upholstery, heated front seats and powered driver’s seat, automatic headlights and front wipers, heated mirrors, High Beam Assist, 18” wheels and, as previously mentioned, Vision Assist.

All important connectivity is via a 6.5” touchscreen in the

base model or 8” for all others. All models get voice command recognition with streaming apps, USB connections, and Premium and S models getting standard satellite navigation. Add keyless entry and start, hill-hold assist and electric parking brake and you have a comprehensive and well-sorted ergonomic package.

An exciting feature (sure to appeal to the 20-somethings) is the option to go online and ‘build your own’ vehicle. A quick run-through on the base spec allows me to choose and view exterior colour, interior contrast, up to 50 accessories such as weather seals, floor and cargo mats, towbar, roof racks, bike racks, ski racks, holders for all forms of watercraft and all-weather seat covers – you can see the manufacturers have their target market firmly in mind. You can even add front and rear parking sensors to the base spec. And you can pay up-front for three years of annual servicing.

Of course, these additions all add to the RRP, but within the privacy of your own home you can play around to get the combination that suits you, compare pricing to see which spec best meets your needs, and check out the final drive-away price as well as what you’d be up for in weekly repayments. And yes, you can even book a test drive and buy online.

A serious run-through on my ‘wish-list’ for the 2.0i-S (adding weather shields, carpet mats, cargo tray, resin cargo step panel, tow bar and headlight protectors) landed me with an RDP of $42,340 and weekly repayments of about $200 a week.

With a drive-away price from $31,486, I think Subaru will be surprised at the wide market the new XV will attract. Move over millennials – we’re in for this one too.

FINANCE IT WITH US! RACT Finance offers low-rate loans, no ongoing fees and fast approval. Apply online at ract.com.au/car-loans.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2017

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LIFE ON THE MOVE

economy is like when driving in RS mode. If you’re looking for turbo-charged engine delivering 97kW and 205Nm and are sporty performance with plenty space for luggage, then it’s certainly similarly generously optioned like the wagons. Zen Sedan misses worth considering. While even the base spec Zen gets an extensive out on the driver support systems similar to the entry-level wagon. All models share Renault’s five year list of standard convenience, aesthetic and unlimited kilometre warranty. safety features, you need to tick the options One nifty addition to the Sedan is box to get the advanced driver support systems hands-free boot opening as standard in like AEB, adaptive cruise control, auto-high If you’re looking for sporty both variants, although I found you needed beam, fatigue detection, lane departure and to have the smart key card quite close to the blind spot warning, which GT-Line and GT performance with plenty rear of the vehicle to activate. get as standard. Front, rear and side parking space for luggage, then it’s The Intens also features an electronic sensors and park assist also feature. panoramic sunroof, which I was assured For those into tech, all specs are fitted with certainly worth considering. was fitted with UV-filtering technology to the Renault R-LINK 2 multimedia system ensure the comfort of the people inside. with sat nav, 7” touch screen (for the Zen, While Renault puts the Sedan in head-to-head competition with 8.7” for the GT-Line and GT), Arkamys audio with eight speakers, the VW Golf, having just also driven the new Holden Astra Sedan, AUX and USB inputs and fingertip controls.

During the launch drive, we were also introduced to the new I struggled to define the difference to justify the jump in price.

Megane Sedan, which sits firmly in the middle between the I’m told it’s all to do with standard inclusions, but I would like hatch and wagon, with the same wheelbase as the wagon, but the to take both for a longer drive on Tassie roads before I make a small-size driving feel of a hatch. judgement call.

For those leaning towards the sedan it comes in two specs, Launch pricing on the Sedan starts at $29,990; Wagon at $30,490 (both Zen and Intens. Both are an auto only-affair and share a 1.2L drive-away, valid to 30 September 2017).

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2017

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stand-up board, which I was hopeless at, or you can boogie board.

I found the second option the easiest as I couldn’t get the balance quite right standing up. This is an activity you can book in a group of four before you get on-board, so it’s great if you are looking to organise as a family or group of friends, with plenty of time to learn the ropes with the instructors. Again, it’s a free activity and you will need to look at your daily activities sheet for times of operation.

For those looking for a more relaxing getaway, there are some nice areas on-board to unwind. My favourite of these was the adults-only Solarium, a fully enclosed area with a three-level cascading plunge pool and four hot tubs that are positioned to overlook the front of the ship. Surrounding the area are the sunlounges all facing the ocean, which is a great place to catch up on reading or just to watch the world go by.

All of these activities and relaxation do create an appetite and on Ovation there isn’t a shortage of places to eat. Included as part of your cruise fare are the main restaurant and Windjammers café, but there are also some specialty restaurants.

My favourite was Jamie’s Italian, which is open for lunch and

Ovation of the Seas cruising into Sydney Harbour; The Bionic Bar; Artwork at Two70; iFly; Artwork on Deck 5. centre: Brett Walker, Cruise Travel Centre Team Leader.

main image:

clockwise from above left:

dinner (a cover charge applies). The menu is amazing, as is the venue and atmosphere.

For something different I would highly recommend Wonderland, but I won’t explain what they do as you have to experience it for yourself. Pre-booking is a must for this restaurant and charges apply. On top of these two there are another five alternative options, which are all amazing.

The after-dark activities on-board are just as good, from Broadway-style shows in the main theatre to music shows in the Music Hall, to amazing visual displays in Two70, there is always something happening somewhere on the ship to keep you entertained.

I very much enjoyed my cruise on-board Ovation and if you would like to know more about my experiences or about the ship please give me a call.

For more details, contact RACT Travel contact RACT Travel or Cruise Travel Centre Hobart.

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2017

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53

EXCITING

holiday destinations

USD $50 ONBOARD CREDIT ^

BEST OF THE MEDITERRANEAN

TEMPLES AND TRADITIONS OF JAPAN From

$7,349

* per person,

From

twin share

(cruise & stay package) Itinerary: Osaka > Kyoto > Kanazawa > Tokyo > Yokohama > Kushiro > Korsakov > Otaru > Hakodate > Tokyo Includes: • Transfer from Osaka Airport to Kyoto • 7 night guided tour including Bullet Train with sightseeing stops and tranfers between Kyoto and Tokyo • Breakfast daily, most lunches & some dinners • 8 night cruise onboard DIAMOND PRINCESS in a Interior Stateroom (Category IF)• All meals~ and entertainment onboard • Port taxes and government fees.

Cruise Departs: Osaka 26 June 2018

$5,949*

(cruise,stay & rail package)

Itinerary: Rome > Cartagena > Ceuta > Seville > Barcelona > Provence > Monte Carlo > Florence/Pisa > Rome> Dubrovnik > Kotor > Kerkira > Olympia > Athens > Santorini > Pompeii > Rome Includes: • 4 nights pre-cruise accommodation in Rome at the Venetia Palace, including breakfast+ • 20 night cruise onboard ms KONINGSDAM in an Oceanview Stateroom (Category E) • Main meals~ and entertainment onboard • Port charges and government fees • Complimentary dining experience in the Pinnacle Grill for lunch.

Cruise Departs: Rome on 8 October 2018

Contact your local store below or call 1300 368 111 Burnie 6434 2955 Devonport 6421 1977 Launceston 6335 5655

Ulverstone 6425 8050 Hobart - Murray St 6232 6455 Kingston 6242 3211

per person, twin share

Rosny

6212 6777

CRUISE TRAVEL CENTRE 6222 9222 - Hobart

www.ract.com.au/travel

SAVE $570*

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MELBOURNE CUPCARNIVAL CUP CARNIVAL From

$275

person, * per twin share (land only)

Includes: • 2 nights at Mercure Hotel Welcome Melbourne in a Standard Room • Reserved Lawn Stand or Saintly Place ticket to VRC Oaks Day on Thursday, 9 Nov 2017 at Flemington Racecourse+

INDULGENT BALI From

$795

person, * per twin share (land only)

Upgrade: Ticket upgrades and other packages for the Melbourne Cup Carnival are available on application.

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$835*

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FREE ROOM UPGRADE

LUXURY GOLD COAST From

$939

person, * per twin share (land only)

Includes: • 5 nights at the Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort & Spa in a Studio Spa Guest Room • Return private car airport transfers.

Includes: • 5 nights at Palazzo Versace in a Superior Room • FREE full breakfast daily • Return airport transfers • Guaranteed upgrade to a Lagoon Room or Superior Suite • A bottle of sparkling wine on arrival.

Travel: 1 Aug – 31 Oct 17

Travel: 1 Aug – 24 Dec 17

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IDYLLIC COOK ISLANDS From

$1,265*

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Includes: • 6 nights at Pacific Resort Rarotonga in a Studio Room • Tropical breakfast daily • Return airport transfers • FREE garden tour & scheduled daily activities • FREE use of snorkelling equipment, kayaks, beach towels & sun loungers.

Travel: 15 Aug 17 - 31 Mar 18

PER COUPLE

SPAIN SMALL GROUP TOUR From

$1,889

person, * per twin share (land only)

Itinerary: Barcelona > Madrid > Cordoba > Granada > Toledo > Madrid Includes: • 6 nights first class hotel accommodation • Breakfast daily • 3 dinners • Guided visits in Madrid, Cordoba, Seville, Granada and Toledo • High speed AVE train Barcelona-Madrid in Tourist Class • Touring by air-conditioned deluxe coach • Services of tour guide (except in Madrid).

Travel: 2017 Departures: 4, 11, 18, 25 Sep; 2, 9, 16 Oct 17

Conditions Apply: *All prices correct as at 05May17 but may flfluctuate uctuate if surcharges, surcharges fees, fees taxes or currency change and is subject to availability. av All savings and bonus nights (if applicable) are included in the advertised price. price The prices shown are for a cash payment. payment 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. All savings and bonus nights (if applicable) included in the advertised price. 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. Further restrictions may apply. For specific offer and terms & conditions, please contact your nearest RACT Travel office. Temples and Traditions of Japan & Best of the Mediterranean: Where accommodation is included, early check-in/late checkout and additional accommodation may be required at additional expense due to flights schedules. Gratuities not included and payable onboard. +Or similar hotel. ~Main meals are included in selected restaurants, specialty restaurants may incur a surcharge. ^Onboard credit is non-refundable, non-transferable and cannot be redeemed for cash or used in the Medical centre or Casino. Pinnacle Grill lunch is applicable to 2 guests per stateroom and reservation will be advised upon embarkation. Offer ends 30Sep17. 2017 Melbourne Cup Carnival: +Event ticket must be purchased with accommodation and cannot be purchased separately. Event ticket is non-refundable and non-transferrable. Event payment conditions apply. Offer ends 29Sep17. Indulgent Bali: ~Must be booked at least 60 days prior to arrival. Offer ends 30Sep17. Escape to Palm Cove: Offer ends 30Sep17. Luxury Gold Coast: Offer ends 30Sep17. Idyllic Cook Islands: #NZD300 food & beverage credit (approx. AUD280). Maximum one credit, per room, per stay. Food & Beverage credit is for in-house dining only. Credit is non-transferable, non-refundable and any unused credit cannot be redeemed for cash. Offer ends 30Sep17. Spain: Offer ends 30Sep17. These prices should be used as a guide only. Please check all prices, availability and other information with your travel consultant at time of or before booking. 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 A11470.

EX HOBART & LAUNCESTON PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE FROM

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New Zealand Coach Holidays

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*Conditions apply. Price based on 8 Day Warbirds Tour valid for travel ex HBA/LST and includes prepaid taxes (subject to change).

Prices shown are for a cash payment - credit card fees will apply. **Saving is per couple ($125pp) person and has been deducted from the 8 day price advertised. Also receive a 400 page NZ Travel Guide per household. ^Hat is per person. No other special offers or discounts apply. Special offers apply to new bookings only until 30 September 2017. 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.

TRAVEL by RACT

A world of experiences Experience an escorted coach holiday.

hether you are marvelling at the spectacular glaciers, picturesque fjords or simply relaxing in a thermal pool, W New Zealand is magical by coach. Relax in armchair comfort as you travel through each region, feeling secure in the hands of a professional Coach Captain whose reliable knowledge includes numerous facts and figures, stories, legends and many laughs along the way. Unwind and really experience ‘Middle-Earth’, knowing the hassle of overlooking hidden locations or taking a wrong turn is removed.

Travel with Grand Pacific Tours on their fully escorted 19-Day New Zealand Showcase taking you to the best parts of both the North and South Islands including four two-night stays and four breathtaking cruises.

Discover all the iconic attractions of both islands as well as exploring lesser-known regions.

Your holiday begins with a tour of the North Island. Enjoy time on the east coast in the beautiful Bay of Islands and cruise the turquoise waters of the bay, encompassing 144 islands, to the famous Hole in the Rock. From the white sandy beaches and myriad of islands to the mystical kauri forests of the west, the landscape of the region offers a powerful presence. Couple this with a plethora of activities to enjoy in cultural Rotorua – the hot-spot of fascinating Maori culture and geothermal phenomena.

Be enchanted at the Hobbiton Movie Set and experience a fascinating guided tour. The rolling hills of Matamata are a land of lush pastures that was chosen to play ‘The Shire’. Also visit some of the lesser-known gems of New Zealand such as Napier, and the wine-producing region of Wairarapa.

In contrast, the South Island provides a dramatic landscape.

Travel on the world-famous TranzAlpine, which traverses the mighty Southern Alps, through a sequence of alpine gorges, taking your breath away at every turn.

Other highlights include Queenstown, where you can board the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship to Walter Peak Station, the best way to enjoy Queenstown’s famed beauty.

See the land of the long white cloud on a coach holiday and return home with memories to last a lifetime.

For more details, contact RACT Travel on 1300 368 111 or visit your local branch.

EX HOBART & LAUNCESTON PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE FROM

3519*

$

>> MULTIPLE GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

INCLUDES

RETURN AIRFARES

MEMBER’S BONUS SAVE UP TO $800 PER COUPLE + MORE**

New Zealand Escorted Coach Tours E

xperience the BEST of NZ on these fully escorted value for money tours. Includes all the must see attractions.

> 9 Day Northern Spectacular > 19 Day NZ Showcase Tour > 10 Day South Is Spectacular > 19 Day Rail & Coach Holiday 4 FULLY ESCORTED TOUR OPTIONZ Tours include airfares, taxes, modern coach travel, 4 star hotel accommodation, most meals, sightseeing & attractions.

*Conditions apply. Price based on 9 Day Northern Spectacular Tour valid for travel ex HBA/LST and includes prepaid taxes (subject to change). Prices shown are for a cash payment - credit card fees will apply. **Travel on selected Escorted departures in Sep 2017 and April, May 2018 and save between $250 - $400 per person depending on itinerary. $250 saving has been deducted from the 9 day price. All other departures will save $125 per person off the brochure price. Also receive a NZ Travel Guide per household. No other special offers or discounts apply. Special offers apply to new bookings only until 30 September 2017. 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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TRAVEL by RACT

Picturesque Patagonia above from left:

outh America is a continent of contrasts, with awe-inspiring natural beauty, fascinating history and magnificent ruins of S ancient civilizations, vibrant cities and a captivating array of cultures.

The specialist team from the South America Tourism Office has designed a new tour that will focus exclusively on the unique region of Patagonia. This area offers one of the most beautiful landscapes in the world with untouched forests, Andean volcanoes, snow-capped mountains and diverse wildlife. Discover the magnificent southern lands of the Chilean and Argentinean Patagonia on this 14-day journey across the most breathtaking landscapes in the world.

Patagonia is as unique as it is enormous; a place where chunks of ice as large as double-decker buses break off huge glaciers into the ocean below. It is an untamed wonderland home to some of the few remaining uninhabited places on Earth and ecosystems and habitats that are rich with wildlife. It is no wonder that it always ranks highly as a once-in-a-lifetime destination to visit.

Be amazed by the spectacular Perito Moreno glacier, the

A close encounter with a whale; Tango dancers from Buenos Aires.

third-largest reserve of fresh water in the world, and famous for periodically cutting off the major southern arm (known as Brazo Rico) of Lake Argentino. Travel to Ushuaia, in Tierra del Fuego, to board the Australis cruise. Australis is an expedition cruise company with 25 years of experience sailing through Patagonia’s southern-most channels. This four-day program explores the Magellan Strait, Beagle Channel and Tierra del Fuego, connecting the cities of Ushuaia, Argentina, and Punta Arenas, Chile.

On its cruises, travellers from all continents visit one of the most beautiful and unspoiled regions in the world. Australis’ ships navigate through glaciers and fjords to reach Cape Horn, providing a first-hand experience of the region’s pristine natural landscapes.

On arrival at Punta Arenas, you will be transferred to the scenic town of Puerto Natales, at the doorstep of the famous Torres del Paine National Park. Be mesmerised by its untouched and enchanting wilderness as you discover lakes and glaciers set among the majestic Andes Mountains.

Lovers of nature will love the Patagonian Delights.

For more information on the Patagonian Delights tour, please contact your local RACT Travel branch on 1300 368 111.

MEMBER BONUS $400 DISCOUNT PER PERSON*

14 DAY TOUR PACKAGE

PATAGONIAN DELIGHTS

FROM $5,859* pp (Twin Share)

Discover the highlights of the Chilean and Argentinean Patagonia. See the magical Perito Moreno glacier, and enjoy the comforts of the Stella Australis cruise ship while observing the beauty of the unique landscapes and wildlife of Patagonia. Explore Torres del Paine National park and its wonders before ending your trip in cosmopolitan Santiago. A tour designed for lovers of nature!

HIGHLIGHTS: • Buenos Aires • El Calafate • Perito Moreno • Ushuaia • Patagonian Cruise • Torres del Paine TOUR INCLUSIONS: • All International & Internal flights ex. Sydney* • Tourist Class Accommodation • Daily breakfast & selected meals • 4D/3N Patagonian Cruise aboard Stella Australis & much more...

DEPARTURE DATES: Weekly departures from October through to April

*Conditions Apply. Prices are correct as at 15 June 2017 and are per person, twin share in low season and includes the Member Bonus discount. Based on ‘B’ Cabin aboard Stella Australis. Subject to availability. Accommodation & Cruise upgrades available upon request. Valid for sale until 30 September 2017. Booking form and $1200p.p deposit required at time of booking. Enquire for single or triple traveller cost. Price excludes taxes & surcharges. Air taxes are approx. $736.00 p.p. The prices shown are for a cash payment. A credit card surcharge will apply when paying by credit card. 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.

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TRAVEL by RACT

Hit the tracks amazing new ways to hit the tracks with Great Southern Rail’s 2018/19 itineraries.

DTheiscover upcoming travel season is packed with new destinations

and experiences designed to deliver a fresh take on the classic rail adventures aboard The Ghan and Indian Pacific.

From April 2018, the Indian Pacific will take to the peaks as well as the plains, offering an optional Off-Train Excursion in the picturesque Blue Mountains for all departures from Perth.

Take in the beauty of this World Heritage-listed landscape via the scenic walkways and cable car before continuing your journey into Sydney. Whether you travel east or west on the Indian Pacific, a suite of new South Australian experiences awaits you.

Walk through the players’ race just like a world-class cricketer at the legendary Adelaide Oval, or go behind the scenes for an intimate dinner at the South Australian Museum. Or, if you’d prefer, delight in the sumptuous food and wine in the acclaimed Barossa Valley, Adelaide Hills or McLaren Vale regions.

For travellers craving a luxury Australian holiday that ventures deep into the heart of this incredible continent, the popular Ghan Expedition journey is back for an extended season, departing Darwin weekly between April and October 2018.

The Ghan Expedition offers the ultimate Outback itinerary, featuring the ancient wonders of Katherine, the fascinating Red Centre and the remote underground mining town of Coober Pedy.

As with all Great Southern Rail journeys, you are free to craft your own custom itinerary with a selection of all-inclusive Off-Train Excursions.

For Expedition travellers, the adventure is yours to choose – from cruising Nitmiluk Gorge, meeting true-blue horse wranglers or taking in the magnificent Simpson’s Gap or breathtaking

main image: inset:

A drone image of Katherine Gorge.

Guests chatting in the Outback Explorer Lounge.

Breakaways Reserve. Often cited as one of Australia’s most iconic destinations, Uluru is available as an upgraded excursion option on The Ghan Expedition. Fly into Uluru, lunch at its base and spend some time taking in the iconic monolith from all angles, including its incredible rock art and its rich Indigenous storytelling.

Return to Alice Springs in the evening in time to dine and dance under the stars at a magical Outback location.

The Ghan’s classic three-day journey, featuring Off-Train Excursions at Alice Springs and Katherine, is also available year-round from Adelaide and from Darwin between November and March.

Whether your travel is aboard The Ghan or the Indian Pacific, your fare is inclusive of superb restaurant-quality dining and onboard beverages. The team of highly qualified chefs prepare fresh, regionally inspired cuisine to complement the diversity of your transcontinental journey.

Book now to take advantage of advance purchase savings.

Save up to $1460* per couple on The Ghan Expedition, $1140* per couple on the Indian Pacific and $1060* per couple on The Ghan for travel in a Gold Service Twin Cabin.

Contact your nearest RACT Travel branch to learn more about exploring Australia by train.

For more details, contact RACT Travel on 1300 368 111 or visit your local branch.

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SUNDAY AUGUST 13th, 2017

10am - 3pm | FREE ENTRY | Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart

over 40 exhibitors exclusive savings theatre presentations virtual reality cruise deck

VALU E

cruisesaleday.com Contact your local store below or call 1300 368 111 Burnie 6434 2955 Devonport 6421 1977 Launceston 6335 5655

Ulverstone 6425 8050 Hobart - Murray St 6232 6455 Kingston 6242 3211

Rosny 6212 6777 CRUISE TRAVEL CENTRE 6222 9222 - Hobart

Conditions Apply: RACT Travel Pty Ltd. ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS No. A11470.

UP T O

500

$

www.ract.com.au/travel

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