Journeys June/July 2016

THE MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF THE RACT

JUNE / JULY 2016

What’s inside your June/July edition?

04 IN OUR COMMUNITY

37

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

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WANDERLUST LIFE ON THE MOVE

JUNE / MEMBE INE FOR

THE RACT RS OF

JULY 2016

ON THE COVER:

Six kilometres long, this stupendous multi-span suspension bridge across the Kurushima Strait is the last in a line of bridges that links the Japanese islands of Honshu and Shikoku. On page 18, join editor Chris Viney on a cycling journey across the Seto Inland Sea – and on page 6, see what the Tasmanian Government is planning for a bridge closer to home.

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GIVE THE ROYAL WAVE

49 YOUR TRAVEL NEWS

New vehicle tests and reviews, motoring tips and advice, a driver-mentor’s story, the phone-less way to cross the road – and join Alice and Darren as they struggle through another hard day at the office, at the wheel of the new Mazda MX-5.

THE MAGAZ

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

Save on great deals for you as an RACT member.

A ramble in Romania, a cycling tour in New Zealand or Japan – where will your wanderlust take you?

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IN TASMANIA TODAY

Sixteen pages packed with travel tips and unbeatable offers for your next holiday, around the nation or across the world.

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

fb.com/RACTOfficial

JUNE / JULY 2016

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IN OUR COMMUNITY

From the

GROUP CEO

Harvey Lennon

W

ith a federal election looming, the time is right for the RACT to encourage community debate (and debate amongst candidates) about a number of relevant issues affecting Tasmania that the Federal Government needs to consider and action.

Principal amongst these is a proposed new four-lane Bridgewater Bridge. The RACT strongly endorses the Tasmanian Government’s recent decision to seek funding from the Federal Government for this important development. The bridge is a major piece of infrastructure that supports freight transportation and improved travel times between Hobart and Launceston. If nothing is done, it has the potential to be the major point of failure in the Hobart to Launceston network. Replacing the Bridgewater Bridge is even more critical when you consider all the work that has been done on, or is planned for, the Midland Highway.

Another key issue is the current traffic congestion being experienced on a regular basis

by Hobart motorists. It is very clear that an appropriate strategy needs to be developed that addresses Hobart’s – and southern Tasmania’s – future road infrastructure requirements. As our population increases and the number of tourists visiting the state continues to rise, the congestion problems – which appear to be worsening – will only be exacerbated.

Looking back, it has been some years since any major infrastructure to improve traffic management spending has been committed for southern Tasmania.

Recent media reports that I have read indicate that Hobart is the third most congested city in Australia, behind Melbourne and Sydney. For a population of only 300,000 people, this is unacceptable.

In summary, we need an holistic, long-term plan that takes into account the unique travel requirements of Hobart’s population. Any incoming federal government must prioritise the development of a solution for Hobart’s traffic congestion.

Reducing road trauma obviously continues to be a key focus for the RACT. It is why it is so disappointing that the Federal Government-funded Keys2Drive program for learner drivers and the person teaching them to drive is set to be scrapped from 1 June. The RACT has been involved in the program for three years. In that time we have seen the number of young drivers involved in serious crashes reduced substantially.

University research recently revealed that learner drivers who participated in the program were 40 per cent less likely to have a crash.

Finally on the federal election, the Midland Highway has historically featured sections that were unsafe for motorists because of narrow verges and high speeds. As I have written about in this column previously, the RACT strongly endorses and supports the 10-year upgrade of the highway and the work that has been completed and funded to date.

But the Federal Government needs to ensure that the remainder of the 10-year plan is funded to allow freight, visitors and locals to travel the length of the Midland Highway in a safe and efficient manner.

–––––––––––––– On a travelling theme, I am excited about sharing APT’s Magnificent Europe River Cruise with a small group of RACT members in October this year. We will spend 15 days exploring five countries, cruising in comfort aboard one of APT’s luxurious river ships.

I am really looking forward to the many cultural experiences, the wonderful sightseeing, the local food and wines – and the good company of like-minded fellow travellers.

Read more about this on page 11 of this issue of Journeys.

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JUNE / JULY 2016

Standard fuelprice boards a must for Tasmania nconsistent fuel-price boards at petrol stations across Tasmania are making it Idifficult for motorists to compare prices

accurately, or worse, to know what they will pay for their fuel.

RACT General Manager Member Assist Darren Moody says that the motoring organisation supports calls for a national standard for fuel-price boards to improve fuel-price transparency.

‘It’s important that only the full price for fuel is displayed, not the discounted price that may be available. This ensures that consumers know the maximum price they will pay before filling up,’ Mr Moody says. ‘The prominent display of discounted fuel prices on price boards can be very confusing for motorists.’

The RACT says it’s also important that price differences between fuels available are also clearly displayed. Many motorists are using premium unleaded and diesel fuels, but prices for these products are not always displayed.

‘We’d like all fuel-price boards to display prices for regular unleaded petrol, premium 95, diesel and LPG where available,’ Darren Moody says.

Both South Australia and New South Wales have already legislated standards that prevent the display of discounted prices that are not available to all motorists.

The RACT believes that this should also apply here in Tasmania.

IN OUR COMMUNITY

Working together to

KEEPAUSTRALIAMOVING T

he RACT is the largest and strongest member organisation in Tasmania. We are an apolitical and independent advocate in the areas of transport infrastructure, road safety, tourism and mobility.

In the lead-up to the 2016 federal election and beyond, we have joined our sister motoring clubs in the Australian Automobile Association to take our case to the Federal Government on behalf of our seven million club members around the nation.

The theme of the AAA message is ‘Keep Australia moving’ – and while the national campaign covers broad-brush transport and road safety issues, the RACT’s own submission to government highlights items of particular significance to Tasmanians.

We have urged the Federal Government to consider three key priority areas:

REDUCE ROAD TRAUMA The Federal Government has previously supported keys2drive and the Black Spot Program, both of which have had a positive impact on reducing road trauma in Tasmania.

Since 2008, more than 4000 young Tasmanians have participated in keys2drive, reducing the likelihood of them being involved in a serious or moderate crash by 40%.

Additionally, the Black Spot Program has enabled much-needed attention for many Tasmanian locations with high crash histories, even though the RACT believes there is still a significant amount of work left to do in this area.

INCREASED TRAVEL EFFICIENCY CBD congestion, particularly in Hobart, continues to worsen. During the morning and evening peaks motorists are experiencing unacceptably long delays, placing pressures on families, particularly those unable to use other forms of transport. Congestion also has the potential to affect business productivity if the issue is not addressed.

Due to a projected increase in population and tourist numbers, the RACT is calling on the Federal Government to work with stakeholders to develop a long-term plan to address CBD congestion.

As well, the connection between Sorell and Hobart requires an immediate solution. Population growth directly to the east of Hobart, particularly in the Sorell Council region, has created a number of pinch-points during peak times. Sorell is also the major thoroughfare to the East Coast and Tasman Peninsula and local congestion impedes access to these popular areas.

ECONOMIC BENEFITS The increase in the number of tourists visiting Tasmania represents significant economic opportunities. However, the infrastructure servicing a number of key destinations is insufficient and could stifle further growth.

The Federal Government should consider attributing funds to allow these high-demand locations to meet a higher level of service. Funds should also be allocated to initiatives that better educate international motorists about driving on Australian roads.

Finally, the Midland Highway is a key arterial route, connecting the two most important economic hubs in Tasmania; Launceston and Hobart. While supportive of the works completed to date, the RACT encourages the Federal Government to secure funding to complete the 10-year vision for the Midland Highway to allow the efficient travel of freight, tourists and local traffic.

For more information, visit www.keepaustraliamoving.com JUNE / JULY 2016

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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 p.sward@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 160258 ISSN 0818-5549 6

Journeys

JUNE / JULY 2016

CONCEPT REPRESENTATIONS

Replacing the Bridgewater Bridge A critically-important transport infrastructure project

T

he RACT agrees with the Tasmanian Government’s assessment that a four-lane replacement of the Bridgewater Bridge would be the most important single transport infrastructure project since the Tasman Bridge was built in the 1960s.

‘The RACT has been calling for an upgrade of the bridge or preferably its replacement for many years, because of its obvious importance to the state,’ RACT CEO Harvey Lennon says. ‘It’s clear that the current bridge is not adequate, because the mechanics that lift the span are well past their use-by date.’

In our view, it is simply not acceptable to have a piece of key infrastructure that cannot be relied upon, once raised, to return to its normal position for traffic movements.

This is a project of major importance to all Tasmanians. We urge the State Government to press ahead with efforts to seek federal funds in order to progress the initiative.

Bright red surprises for two lucky winners

A

n RACT Insurance customer and an RACT Roadside member were drawn as the winners of our joint RACT/RACT Insurance ‘Win a car’ promotion.

Robyn Marsden of Geilston Bay (pictured with RACT CEO Harvey Lennon) has been a Roadside member for 27 years. She and Edith Adler of Kingston both won a brand-new, bright-red Hyundai Veloster 5-door RB2 Active Accent.

Congratulations to our prize winners – we’re sure they’ll enjoy their new Hyundais.

IN OUR COMMUNITY

DARK MOFO 2016:

RACT vibes MAC2 with ZHU R

ACT has been a proud sponsor of Dark Mofo since the inaugural festival and we stepped it up last year, partnering on the two-night arts event Wild at Heart at Cradle Mountain Hotel. We’re excited again to give our support to this iconic winter festival over the next three years.

In 2016, Mona’s midwinter festival Dark Mofo runs from 10-21 June across Tasmania and RACT will be the key presenting partner of Dark Mofo’s opening night party on Friday 10 June at Hobart’s dockside party precinct, MAC2.

Presented by Dark Mofo and RACT in association with TasPorts, the festival’s opening night party features a neon-lit lineup of American dance music star ZHU, with support acts Oscar Key Sung, Kučka, Bronze Savage, Nite Fleit and Zero Percent, with eye-popping visuals inside and fire jets to light the night outside.

Last year, Dark Mofo notched up 280,000 attendances during the 10 day event – this year, many Dark Mofo patrons will be heading to MAC2 to get the party started.

For the full program, visit www.darkmofo.net.au

JUNE / JULY 2016

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IN OUR COMMUNITY

Street smart

We asked some North West Coasters: What are the issues that concern you in the areas of roads, road safety or traffic? ’m concerned about some of the intersections linking Wynyard to the Bass Highway. People find it hard to see oncoming cars and trucks when using the Calder, Oldina, Deep Creek Road and Reservoir Drive intersections because of road design issues. I am most concerned about Reservoir Drive because that one has had the most near-misses, and that’s where my daughter had a serious accident. We need Black Spot funding to build proper slip lanes at those intersections.

Darcy Leno, Wynyard

I

Phil Blake

James Griffiths, Optical Note Photography

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Opinion

think we are pretty much catered for up this end of the Coast, now that the Sisters Hills upgrade has been completed – and the roads heading up to our shack in the Central Highlands are pretty good if you drive to the conditions.

Barry Stretton, Hellyer Beach

Kourtnee Gardam, Burnie

T

he Bass Highway upgrades through Rocky Cape and the Sisters Hills are marvellous. Sure, there are some bottlenecks after the upgraded sections heading towards Smithton and prime-movers have little leeway when meeting each other, but when I think back to how poor the road conditions were in that area when we lived in Circular Head, I have little to complain about. My wife and I have visited Rotary eye clinics in India and Nepal and we’ve never seen roads like it. One fellow walked with his wife on his back for eight hours, so she could be seen at a clinic – we don’t know how lucky we are.

Tony Boys, Wynyard

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he new laws on passing cyclists have helped, but some drivers still try and squeeze past riders, which is very dangerous, especially when the risk may only benefit them by 30 seconds off the trip.

Some of my riding buddies are now using tiny digital movie cameras on the back of their bikes to capture what is happening. They have given their movie footage to the police, who are now dealing with it. I wish more motorists realised we have this technology because it’s another incentive for drivers to respect bike riders.

Melanie Bond, Somerset

Interviews and photos: Simone Lea 8

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JUNE / JULY 2016

Perfect Prints Hobart

love the slip lane coming off the Bass Highway at Doctors Rocks, Wynyard. We need more slip lanes at other intersections, like Deep Creek Road and Wilkinson Street (Oldina), to make the highway safer. And I love the drive to our shack at Arthur River in Circular Head. I’m a little devastated about some of the tracks being closed, but hey, let’s treat the ones we do have open with respect and maybe one day the other tracks will be re-opened.

Michelle Crome

I

clockwise from top:

Phil and John Blake nearly airborne on the Cygnet Targa Stage this year; the author (right) next to his son John and second place-getter David Currow, after winning Targa Tasmania Classic Florio in 2013; with the clerk of the course Kevin Knight at the Lufra Hillclimb, Eaglehawk Neck

‘Motor sport is dangerous.’

G

o to any motor sport event and you will see signs telling you it’s dangerous. Go as a competitor, and you will be given multiple opportunities to waive any rights you may think you have. It’s one of the last bastions of risk-taking. And it’s fantastic fun – perhaps because of the risk.

I love it. Some people hate it. I don’t blame them. As well as being dangerous, it’s a noisy, smelly, environmentally-dubious, expensive and self-indulgent pursuit. (Smoking covers all those bases except the noise, and kills a lot more people.)

I have been asked to present the pros and cons here. That will be tricky, because I don’t have a balanced view. I usually ignore the cons, because the pros get all my attention.

My chosen sport for the last 20-odd years has been tarmac rallying, which I view as the purest form of motor sport. It’s run on normal roads, with all the hazards that implies except oncoming traffic (and I’ve even had that once, courtesy of a gentleman on the West Coast whose bravery outweighed his brain).

These hazards include trees, rocks, drop-offs, steel barriers, walls, ponds, livestock, suicidal pedestrians, occasional stationary vehicles and – very occasionally – other people’s mistakes. Pretty much what

IN OUR COMMUNITY you endure on the way to and from work every day. And like you, we don’t want to hit any of them.

Let’s look at what happens when you – or I – hit something hard and stop suddenly. You first. No, I insist.

Your monocoque chassis will deform as the crumple zones take up the impact energy. Your airbags will go off and cushion you.

Your collapsible steering column will divert away from your chest.

Your seatbelt will restrain you – a bit.

I’m in an older car. Fifty-two years old. It has a monocoque chassis, and it may have crumple zones. But one of the zones is occupied by a 40-litre fuel tank, right in front of me. It’s made of polyethylene so that it won’t split, and its fuel pump cuts automatically if the engine stops. It’s also filled with foam that stops the fuel sloshing about. And I have two fire extinguishers in the car as well as fireproof clothing – suit, underwear, socks, gloves and balaclava. There are no airbags – apart from me – but there is a 38-40mm tubular rollover protection cage, fastened to the car in six places. The steering column is not collapsible but it is articulated, so it’s not a steel spear. My seatbelt, like yours, will stretch quite a lot in this impact. But while yours is a 50mm wide lap-sash with three fastening points (one of them an inertia reel), mine is 75mm wide, has six fastening points, and is very tight indeed. I am also wearing a good crash helmet and a head and neck support device. This goes on my shoulders under the seat belt, and is tethered to my helmet to stop my neck from over-extending.

Admittedly, I am more likely to have a crash because I am closer to the limit of adhesion, and I will almost certainly be going faster when I get to the scene. If you did applied maths at school you will know that kinetic energy (which is what does the damage) is worked out by multiplying half the mass (weight, to most of us) by the square of the speed. And it’s that square of the speed that causes the problem.

Let’s say our cars weigh the same. If you hit your object at 60km/h and I hit mine at 100, the figures going into our equation are 3600 for you and 10,000 for me. Which, without all my gear, adds up to me seeing more stars than you. But all in all, I would rather be in my car than yours. I have had three rollovers and a rapid and lengthy trip through the bush, and in every case was able to open the door and walk away.

You might say – and you’d be right – that there would be no need for all that safety gear if I wasn’t silly enough to get in the thing in the first place, and if I wasn’t travelling so fast.

But where did all the safety features in your car come from? They evolved, and they evolved from the average person’s need to get there faster – and that person’s occasional need to get there faster than was actually safe. People went through windscreens or got thrown out of cars, so safety glass and seatbelts came in. They got head and neck injuries in quite minor accidents, so airbags came in.

They succumbed to large G-forces and to being hit by parts of the car, so crumple zones and collapsible steering columns were added.

(And a lot of safety features, incidentally, have been refined by motor sport.) The other thing average people did was drive too fast for the conditions or their ability, so speed limits were applied.

I’ve just finished competing in Targa Tasmania for the 21st time.

So on about 40 special stages over six days I was travelling fast in the company of other people who (mostly) knew what they were doing and cooperated with each other to stay safe. And sometimes during that week I found myself in city traffic, in the company of some who didn’t, and didn’t. And used mobile phones while they weren’t.

It’s enough to drive you to smoking. But that’s definitely too risky for me.

Member in focus Ronnie Jacobs Ronnie Jacobs is a former Londoner who’s been an RACT member since he came to Tasmania twelve years ago.

Born at the end of the WW11, Ronnie made history in April 1964, when he boarded a Boeing 707 for the then 36-hour Qantas flight to Australia. It was the first time that aircraft, instead of ships, had transported the so-called Ten Pound Poms.

He was eventually able to join his brothers in West Australia.

After serving in the Australian Army’s Corps of Engineers, he returned to the UK to the ambulance service and then came back to Australia again, this time to work in disability services.

Somewhere in between he was a masseur; clients included Joan Collins, even Lord Olivier.

What was your first car?

An original Mini Clubman Estate. On camping trips, I’d open the back and light a gas stove. It was later someone pointed out the Mini’s petrol tank was just millimetres away.

After that I had a little Fiat, ideal for ferry trips to France.

They’d want something to tuck into a tiny space, often so small I’d have to crawl out of the sunroof.

Did you have membership of a motoring club?

Back then, I was with Britain’s Automobile Association.

My personal policy has always been to keep a car serviced, the fluids topped up and the tyres in good nick, so I never needed to call them. It’s a pity in some ways, as the original AA servicemen drove motorcycles and saluted cars bearing the AA badge!

Have you travelled a lot?

I’ve been just about everywhere, including backwards and forwards to England more times than I can count.

Now that you’re retired, what are you up to?

In 2008, I had heart surgery, an operation that somehow unleashed an inner tide of short stories and art, colour and B&W abstracts, most completed in felt tip pen and black ink.

I’m not the world’s greatest artist, but I’m driven to get it onto paper. You could say it’s created from the heart.

What are you driving now?

For the past 17 years, I’ve driven a RAV 4. Such an amazing car. I shed a tear when she went. I replaced that Toyota with a near-new RAV 4, which is, of course, covered by RACT insurance.

And his RACT Roadside membership?

I still keep those fluids up and regular maintenance. So no service calls so far!

Photo and interview: Phil Blake JUNE / JULY 2016

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IN OUR COMMUNITY

motornews News | Cars | Travel

April / May 2007

| Prizes

ia Limited bile Club of Tasman The Royal Automo The magazine of

ns Young Tasmania take P-Plate Action

Dec 08

THE MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF THE RACT

/ Jan

09

AUGUST / SEPTEMBER 2015

In Maz da Tow Win n

Chris Viney writes:

A

fter working on 61 magazines during the past 10 years, I’ve decided it’s time to move on from the role of Journeys editor. I’ll be leaving the RACT soon after this June/July issue has been distributed.

I plan to continue my freelance writing business Pavlov’s Dog and I won’t stop travelling and writing, so I hope my byline may still pop up in Journeys in the future. I’ll also be helping my wife Judith with her property work on Bruny Island – but before that, we’re looking forward to a few weeks of 4WD touring on the mainland.

The new Journeys editor is Paula Sward, who has been appointed as RACT Communications Manager, a role that will involve developing an enhanced digital presence for the magazine. I’ve worked with Paula on a variety of projects over many years. She

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Cars –

24 essentials – page Home security Cars: Honda

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Kamira / Shutterstock.com

Farewell – and welcome!

P-Plate Action The people behind – Driving program Viney, and the Crash-free Doug Ling, Jack Chief Engineer Story – page 5. (from left) RACT Jess Molhuysen.

Alex Jerrim and driver-educator

has wide experience in journalism and public relations and I know that she will do an outstanding job as she takes Journeys forward.

Our club magazine has evolved during the past decade. When I started work on the June/July 2006 issue, it was called Motor News.

Later, we made the partial transition to Motor News Journeys, then completed the move to Journeys in 2011. These masthead changes allowed the magazine to reflect the RACT’s widening range of products and services – motoring, insurance, travel, finance and tourism.

Through the years, market research has shown that you, our valued RACT members, have been loyal and engaged readers of your club’s magazine. As the departing editor, I want to thank you for your interest and support – and on your behalf, I’d like to say a warm welcome to your new Journeys editor, Paula Sward.

Cruising with the Chief H

ere’s a unique opportunity to relax aboard a luxurious river ship with RACT Chief Executive Officer Harvey Lennon and a friendly group of like-minded RACT members as you cruise in style through five countries on Europe’s great waterway, the Danube.

APT’s 15-day Magnificent Europe River Cruise takes you on a journey of discovery from Budapest to Amsterdam, with many opportunities to explore legendary destinations along the way, including Vienna, Salzburg, Nuremburg, Bonn, Cologne and more.

Join Harvey and friends on this very special and exclusive cruise – places are limited so call RACT Travel now on 1300 368 111.

JUNE / JULY 2016

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IN OUR COMMUNITY

Your views Traffic light blues

Have dog, can’t crash?

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A

s there any reason for the blue/green LEDs in traffic lights? Being of the slightly older generation, I find it very hard to ‘go’ when the lights change to blue/green instead of the old green colour. Surely I’m not the only one who finds the colour distracting?

ccording 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.

Yet according to RSAC, there has never been a fatality or accident due to distraction or inattention caused by uncontrolled or unrestrained dogs transported inside motor vehicle cabins.

H.A. Watts, Howrah

Recipe for disaster

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Speed-cam warning signage – yes or no?

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am writing to support the letters of both Peter Newman and Michael Ukhoff in the last edition of Journeys in their objections to warning signs for fixed speed cameras. I believe that the policy of the RACT supporting the warning signage is wrong.

As a retired anaesthetist I have seen too many people on the operating table, including a death, with both the serious injuries and the ongoing chronic problems many suffer from motor vehicle crashes.

Very, very few are genuine ‘accidents’ without cause. Every extra km/h in the collision speed increases both the severity of injuries and the fatality rate. There have already been too many deaths on our roads this year.

I wonder how many of our members support the current policy? I feel it is time that the membership was surveyed on this matter to see if this policy should be changed. Warning signs just mean that people slow down for them and then speed away again afterwards As Michael Ukhoff writes ‘if you don’t want a speeding ticket, then don’t speed!’

Michael Claxton, Cygnet 12

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eter Leschen (February/March Journeys) writes of the new Road Safety Strategy being developed to take effect in 2017. He makes the point that a focus of the strategy needs to be on driver responsibility ‘to pay continuous, undivided attention to the task of driving’ and that DIER’s own statistics suggest that a very high percentage of accidents are not caused by driver excessive speed but by driver inattention. Further, that one or two seconds of inattention is all it takes to run off the road or cross the centre line.

My experience of being on the road today is that the task of driving includes ‘see how close you can be to the centre line whilst driving through right-hand bends’. This has presented me with more than a fair share of scary moments! Now, on bends, not only do I have to take responsibility for where I am positioned on the roadway, but increasingly I have to be prepared to take defensive action because the approaching driver is sitting on or over the centre line.

If my attention is not 100% and I enter the left-hand bend too fast and therefore drift towards the centre line whilst the approaching driver is cutting the corner … it’s a recipe for disaster!

Many years ago, my driving instructor insisted that the edge of the road and the centre line were two reference points within which I should ensure that my vehicle is centrally-positioned at all times.

This was not only on straight stretches but also on both left and right-hand bends.

How can driver responsibility to the task of driving not be the key factor of the new strategy?

Jim Crowley, Sunnyside

The RSAC does not collect statistics in relation to inattention and distraction caused by animals, this could be the elephant in the room, or more specifically the unrestrained and uncontrolled dogs in the car.

Four million dogs being transported regularly around Australia and not one accident due to distraction and inattention?

Does this mean that if you transport a dog in your car you will never have an accident?

Chris Boron, Bellerive

I think I’d agree that it would be surprising if not one serious casualty and fatality over that period was caused by an unrestrained animal in the vehicle. That said, it is my view that unless it is clearly definable as the sole cause of a crash, inattention isn’t being reported as a causal factor by police, so it is probably well under-reported in statistics. However inattention – of any cause – is the biggest issue we have on our roads today.

Darren Moody General Manager, Member Assist

Go Rob

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was so pleased to read Rob Riddell’s article about the potential use of the ‘short third lanes’ entering some of our highways. I have been saying to friends for a few years that those lanes on the Brooker Highway at Risdon Road, Bowen Road and Elwick Road should be for emergency vehicles only. Many drivers who take these lanes do not seem to know how to merge back into the traffic.

I am all in favour of the lanes being made for emergency vehicles only. They have a hard-enough time getting through in peak traffic and this would help enormously.

Helen Arnold

IN OUR COMMUNITY

Wake up to yourselves …

S

hirley Jennings (April/May Journeys) made some astute observations and comments, especially the suggestion that cyclists must ride in single file. That’s just plain and sensible, but I would like to add some comments and questions.

Can any cyclist please explain why many of them who do use cycle lanes prefer to ride virtually on or as close as possible to the white line separating the cycle lanes and motorised traffic? Worse still, why are some still riding on roads when adjacent is the clearly marked and provided cycle lane – and more to the point, why is that practice still legal? Single file should be mandatory within the cycle lanes, unless overtaking a slower cyclist. Don’t believe me? Just take a drive along Sandy Bay Road.

Legislators, wake up to yourselves and meet your obligations to motorised traffic who pay heavy road taxes – and for what?

Johnny Koay, Mt Nelson

… and a different view

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Discourteous, selfish and hirley Jennings’ proposal in Journeys to dangerous

change the rule so that cyclists must ride in single file has some problems.

When overtaking any cyclist, even a single rider, you should give 1-1.5m clearance, depending on your speed. This means changing lanes or moving into the oncoming lane (if clear) to overtake.

Whether a group is riding single or double file, you still have to move into another lane to overtake. Trying to squeeze past within a single lane is unsafe (though not illegal in Tasmania).

Also, consider a group of six riders in a bunch. If they are riding in single file, the distance to overtake a line of six is like passing a truck – while passing two groups of three riders (or three groups of two) is more like passing a car. Which is quicker to overtake safely?

Lastly, riding two-abreast makes cyclists much more visible to motorists approaching from behind. The most common form of car/bicycle collision is being hit from behind. The excuse is often ‘I didn’t see them.’

Cyclists might seem to do annoying things, but often their behaviour is about being safe, visible and predictable – something motorists don’t often realise unless they have cycled themselves.

G Wickham, Mt Nelson

Hints on tints

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n the last few years it has become fashionable for cars to have tinted windows. This bothers me because I like to be able to see the driver from all directions. I rely on looking at the driver in order to predict what they will probably do next in the likely absence of correct signalling.

In particular, cyclists and pedestrians rely on predicting driver behaviour just to survive. A cyclist who is about to ride past a parked car and who cannot see if there is anyone inside because the rear window is so dark is at risk of being knocked off by the sudden opening of a door. A pedestrian at a road crossing needs to know whether the driver has seen them.

It is significant that the French police have recently banned tinted front-side windows, partly for the reasons given above, but also for security concerns.

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he rules for travelling on a dual-lane section of road with a speed limit above 80km/h are clearly defined for the vehicle doing the overtaking.

It seems there should be something written to cover the discourteous, selfish and dangerous behaviour so commonly displayed by vehicles that are being overtaken.

The sign ‘Keep Left Unless Overtaking’ does not mean ‘speed up’. Common sense should prevail on the drivers of slow vehicles, who have been trailed by a tell-tale line of vehicles for long distances, to maintain, not increase their speed once they reach the dual-lane section of road, thus allowing others to overtake safely.

It is all too common to witness slow vehicles immediately ramp up the speed once they hit the dual-lane, effectively preventing following traffic their opportunity to pass safely. This is a terribly dangerous practice that endangers all vehicles on the section of road at the time.

Cynthia Harris

The ultimate experience

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ust before Easter my husband and I had reason to drive to St Helens, but when the car broke down we had to change our mode of transport – via a tow truck! We are both in our 70s and the effort of getting us inside the truck’s cab was a joke, but Dale Richards, the RACT’s Roadside contractor in St Helens, kindly delivered us and our vehicle to the auto electrician. Dale was extremely thoughtful and considerate and we were very grateful to him. The alternator had to be replaced, which would take a couple of days so we contacted RACT to see if they could allocate a hire car. The answer was yes! I had transferred a few years ago from Roadside to Ultimate cover and we were helped all the way by the call centre staff and the hire car company.

With their assistance and Dale’s help, a frustrating experience was made much easier. Thank you RACT Ultimate!

Marie Brewster, Chain of Lagoons

Richard Langman, Kingston Beach

THE WINNING VIEW... Richard Langman wins a $50 travel voucher for his letter on darktinted windows. 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 JUNE / JULY 2016

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IN OUR COMMUNITY

From yellow ribbons to black gumboots R

ACT staff and vehicles were adorned in yellow ribbons from 2-8 May to acknowledge Road Safety Week 2016.

Tasmania Police, in partnership with the RACT and the Road Safety Advisory Council, raised awareness with a daily focus on the ‘fatal five’: • Speeding • Seat belts • Inattention • Fatigue • Drug/alcohol use The week culminated in three days braving the elements at Agfest, discussing the importance of buying the safest possible vehicle in any price range. On display were two vehicles that had been involved in ANCAP crash testing. The difference between a five-star and three-star vehicle was quite startling!

The yellow ribbons will come out again in 2017 to further promote safe driving behaviour by all motorists. from top: The 2013 Subaru Forester was rated at five-stars in the ANCAP crash test – the Chery J1 rated only three stars; the RACT Agfest team (from left): Tim O’Neill, Will Oakley, Ali Tope, Janine Bannon, Stacey Pennicott, Jane Morrison, Sarah Thomas, Leah Tierney, Stuart Lee, Trevor Lewis

We say – why try?

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upported by the RACT, the Hobart, Clarence, Kingborough, Derwent Valley and Glenorchy Councils secured $25,000 under the State Government’s Community Road Safety Grants Program to bring a driving simulator to Tasmania. The simulator was used to educate students about the dangers of distraction and inattention while driving.

One of the most eye-opening exercises was when a student driving the simulator was deliberately distracted by friends – it was a practical demonstration of the dangers of inattention.

RACT attended the Rosny College and Claremont College sessions to complement the simulator project by providing two additional driver training activities. One asked students to try texting while driving; and another, to drive while wearing distortion glasses that mimic being under the influence of alcohol or drugs. (We stress, both exercises were conducted under controlled conditions.)

After each test, we asked the question – ‘Is it possible to text and still drive safely? Is it possible to be ‘under the influence’ and be a safe driver?’

To both questions, the students who participated answered with a resounding ‘No.’ So we say to everyone – why try?

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Madie Warmbrunn learns that it’s impossible to text and drive safely. The RACT’s Peter Gillon keeps an eye on the witches’ hats while Madie’s friends (from left) Sheridan Penwright, Annabel Lakey and Jesse McGuinness do some back-seat distraction of their own

IN OUR COMMUNITY

Bikes and breakfasts, goals and gardens, apps and ATVs T

he RACT Community Fund provides support for a range of worthwhile projects around Tasmania. We’ll report in more detail next issue, but these are the successful applicants in round 16.

Boat Harbour Beach Surf Lifesaving Club An all-terrain vehicle to transport emergency equipment New Horizons Club Inc An educational garden for people with disabilities St Helens District High School Netball goals and safety padding Cambridge Volunteer Fire Brigade New UHF radios for better emergency communication Wynyard Viet Veterans memorial project Plaques to acknowledge local Vietnam War veterans Invermay Primary School A breakfast program for students Tasmanian Wildlife Rehabilitation Council A cross-platform app to help provide emergency advice when wildlife is injured on the road Riding for the Disabled Kalang Inc Re-fit of a horse float Pete’s Community Work Shed Materials for a therapy woodwork group for people with disabilities Strahan Primary School Parents and Friends Bikes for the kinder/prep students to help increase road safety skills

The right restraint is a Goodstart T

he RACT and Kidsafe recently visited Goodstart Early Learning (Hobart West) to conduct free safety inspections of child restraints and to demonstrate to parents their correct and incorrect use.

RACT Motoring Services Manager Peter Gillon said a correctly-fitted child restraint could dramatically decrease the risk of serious injury in a crash.

‘The best protection for your child is a properly-secured safety seat,’ he said.

‘But despite the importance of proper installation, research shows that about 80 per cent of child restraints are fitted wrongly or used incorrectly.

‘This is an alarming statistic, especially when you consider the fact that in Australia, motor vehicle crashes are one of the leading causes of child deaths and acquired disabilities.’

Goodstart Early Learning State Manager Chris Symons said that the centre conducts regular child restraint checks as part of its commitment to providing practical help to protect the lives of youngsters in cars.

‘We include RACT resources and fact sheets in our enrolment packs and provide families with access to the RACT’s informative DVD, which highlights common mistakes made when fitting a child restraint in a vehicle,’ Mr Symons said.

Hazel Richards travels in safety in a correctly-fitted and age-appropriate child restraint

Mr Gillon said children should be restrained with seatbelts and booster seats that were appropriate for their age and size.

He said some of the most common mistakes included seats and seat bases that were installed too loosely in a vehicle, twisted harnesses and faulty or broken belt buckles.

‘Rearward-facing and forward-facing restraints need to be installed with a top tether, with the strap securely fastened to prevent the restraint from moving forward in a crash,’ Mr Gillon said.

It’s all right here on DVD The RACT has produced an educational DVD for parents, grandparents and professionals who work with young families, showing the correct way to install a child restraint.

The DVD, which was launched in the maternity ward of the Hobart Private Hospital, highlights common mistakes made when fitting a child restraint in a vehicle.

It can be accessed by hospitals, child care centres and other relevant care providers for use as an education resource for families.

See the DVD at www.ract.com.au/child-safety JUNE / JULY 2016

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WANDERLUST

A Romanian Ramble Lilly and Suzie Donkers experience the walk of a lifetime.

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icking the best moment from three months of travel in Eastern Europe should be a challenge – but it’s not. There’s one standout, far-out, out-of-this-world highlight that we will never forget – a six-day, self-guided UTracks walking tour through the Transylvanian countryside.

this page, clockwise:

Bran Castle; Lilly meets a friendly local puppy on the walk; wild strawberries; a breakfast feast Lilly and Suzie at Bucegi Mountains; plums for a walking snack; farmhouse along the way; sheep above Moeciu de Sus photos: Lilly and Suzie Donkers opposite, left to right:

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WANDERLUST

We wake to the soft jingling of sheep bells as a flock is herded peacefully down the dirt road beside our guesthouse. My mother pokes her head out the window to see summer sunshine lighting up lush green fields, haystacks (the ones piled patiently by hand and pitchfork), farm cottages and epic limestone peaks of the mountain range beyond.

The track leads into cool forest, over a stream and past a spring where drink bottles are filled with ice-cold water straight from the Earth. Eyes open to the underbrush, we spot the glossy red glint of wild strawberries. We crouch in the pine needles and pick the tiny berries – they make an intensely sweet, juicy mid-morning snack.

Yesterday the walk took us down into the valley for lunch beside The guesthouse is in Magura, Transylvania. Magura village is Bran Castle, which is associated with the prince Vlad Tepes of right up in the hills, looking down into deep valleys and up to Walachia, widely thought to have inspired the character Dracula. the Piatra Craiului Mountains, which are part of the Southern The castle is nowhere near as scary as we’d hoped to be able to tell people – in fact it’s light, bright and homely – but Carpathians. This area is regarded as one of the there are plenty of black and white postcards most beautiful in the whole of the 1500km -long with dramatised photos of the castle, complete Carpathian Mountain range. with spider webs and dripping blood, to send We ramble up, down It takes two-and-a-half hours of scenic, rattling and along well-marked, back home to the family. train-ride from Romania’s capital Bucharest, Today we walk up to impressive heights in the then a one-hour transfer to get here. It’s a relief under-crowded Carpathian foothills. Lunch is taken in an alpine to arrive in this calm paradise after the rush tracks, admiring the meadow shared with a shepherd and his flock. and clamour of Bucharest. The train trip, maps, wildflowers, listening We ramble up, down and along well-marked food, transfers and accommodation for the uncrowded tracks, admiring the wildflowers, to the birds, taking six-day tour are all taken care of by the company listening to the birds, taking photos and enjoying – we don’t have to worry about a thing. photos and enjoying the simple wonder of walking.

After absorbing the morning sun and the simple wonder of In the afternoon a village appears in the valley attempting to digest the never-ending view, walking. below – a church steeple, colourful cottage roofs, we head downstairs to fuel up on a Romanian a clear mountain stream running through the breakfast, prepared with love by our host. The table is laden – omelettes, courtesy of the chickens pecking and centre – it’s our home for tonight. The map’s instructions take us clucking around the backyard; a giant pot of coffee and fresh bread; down to the town, just off the main street to our next beautiful a smorgasbord of cheese, thanks to the cows and sheep that graze guesthouse. Our luggage is waiting for us, dropped off this in the surrounding green fields; and homemade jams and preserves. afternoon by a local taxi.

These guesthouses are family-run affairs. A proud and hospitable After a hot shower we put our feet up and toast the day with a mama welcomes guests with open arms; daughter, on summer glass of delicious (and cheap!) Romanian wine. We eat a wonderful break from university, brings extra bread to the table while happily three-course home-cooked meal – vegetable soup, bread, stuffed answering questions about the area; grandmother is sitting close by, capsicums, cheese, polenta, cherry cake – all washed down with a shelling peas from the garden for tonight’s dinner; while father is small glass of tuica, the local fruit brandy. picking plums from the tree in the front yard then enthusiastically We fall asleep in soft, cosy beds, deeply satisfied and pleasantly pouring armfuls of them into our laps ‘for walking snacks!’ exhausted. It’s a great feeling knowing the walking track will greet We fill our daypacks with water, camera, a sandwich and a piece of us again in the morning, and there’s still more of this ramble of a cake, then start walking. Following the provided map we are led lifetime to come. across paddocks, past cows and friendly farmers, past school kids Sounds exaggeratingly, ridiculously damn good? It is. It really, truly is. who practice their English by calling out to us, ‘Hello! Hello!’

Lilly and Suzie travelled with UTracks on their ‘Transylvania Castles and Mountains’ self-guided walking tour.

JUNE / JULY 2016

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WANDERLUST

Down-up pedals, down-up-down Chris Viney

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The author on the six-kilometre crossing of the Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge, Japan; the angry ship’s warning to can-throwers is ‘Kiken! Dangerous!’; on the Alps2Ocean Cycleway in the Tasman Valley, New Zealand; Jack Viney on the winner’s podium after a mountain-bike hill-climb event in Fernie, Canada opposite:

Japanese crossing guard; Michael Shaw on the Shimanami Kaido; Judith Viney on day one of the A2O

main image:

Michael Shaw Viney family

other photos:

collection

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ith one notable exception, the members of our family have never been particularly passionate cyclists. Our son Jack, a successful competitor in international multi-day mountain bike races, puts the rest of us to shame, although our daughter Fiona, who recently lived in Davis, California, rode to university every day. I guess if your home town proudly proclaims itself as the most bicycle-friendly place in America, you don’t have much choice.

Judith and I aren’t serious two-wheel enthusiasts – Hobart has hills to spare, unlike Davis, which is as flat as one of the tortillas from the city’s fabulous Mexican food vans. But even so, we’ve found that touring by bicycle, once you’re over the initial wobbles, can be a great way to travel.

Our cycling started decades ago, when we were doing the obligatory ‘round Europe by campervan’ jaunt, a rite of passage that’s still popular with young Australians. A pair of folding bikes came with the Bedford van that we purchased from like-minded travellers in the parking lot under Waterloo Bridge, and while we were never game to ride them in London or Paris, we used the bikes to pick up burgundy, baguettes, bologna and bocconcini whenever our van was parked in a French or Italian campground.

Back home a long bike-free period followed, but then came the days of toddlers, tricycles and training wheels. Jack showed an early taste for speed, cracking a front tooth in a trike crash before we installed hay bales on all on the corners of our Mt Nelson garden paths.

Now, with the kids grown and moved away, we’ve been doing some travelling of our own – and we’ve surprised ourselves by making bicycle touring a feature of some of the trips.

A year or two ago, we rode the multi-day route from Aoraki/Mt Cook in the heart of New Zealand’s Southern Alps, down through 780m of altitude to meet the Pacific Ocean.

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WANDERLUST After a few training rides, we set off on the six-day, 300km Alps2Ocean Cycleway, which begins with a three-minute up-anddown helicopter flight across the valley of the upper Tasman River to the start of the journey.

On the A2O route we rode on sandy tracks, bitumen roads, gravel bike paths and rocky trails; stayed in country hotels, B&Bs and lakeside lodges; and marvelled at the changing scenery of alpine peaks, powder-blue lakes, farmlands, orchards and vineyards, before finally rolling down to the Victorian-era streetscapes in the port town of Oamaru.

The A2O traverses Peter Jackson country, through landscapes that are familiar from The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings movies. As Bilbo Baggins leaves The Shire to carry the Ring in secret to Rivendell, he murmurs the words of a song that makes a fine theme for this ride of great interest, character and variety: ‘The Road goes ever on and on, down from the door where it began.

Now far ahead the Road has gone, and I must follow if I can!

Pursuing it with eager feet, until it joins some larger way Where many paths and errands meet – and whither then? I cannot say.’

‘Whither then’, for me at least, was Japan, where last year I joined an Australian friend to ride the spectacular Tobishima Kaido and Shimanami Kaido cycling routes between the islands of Honshu and Shikoku. My mate Michael Shaw lives in Hiroshima and he had researched the trip in detail, so all I had to do was pack a couple of panniers and follow his rear-wheel as we rode from his home into the city, alongside one of the six tributaries of the Ota River, then through Peace Park to Hiroshima Port, where we boarded the Kure ferry for the first leg. The word kaido means ‘sea road’ and this cycling journey island-hops across the Seto Inland Sea via a combination of short ferry crossings, quiet, sea-level island roads and half-a-dozen inter-island bridges, several of which are simply stupendous.

One of these is the world’s longest multi-span suspension bridge across the Kurushima Strait between the island of Oshima and the Shikoku port of Imabari. Riding on a separate bike path alongside the highway, it takes an incredible six kilometres of cycling to cross the Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge – the spiralling entry and exit ramps themselves are each a kilometre long. As we circled our way in low gear up the on-ramp, freewheelers coming down urged us on with calls of ‘ganbatte kudasai!’ – ‘don’t give up, please do your best!’ (Michael told me that his Japanese wife Fumi used to carve the kanji characters for these encouraging words on the bananas that their children took into school exams, for motivation as well as sustenance.)

Along the Shimanami Kaido, each day ended in a comfortable campsite, sharing a bento-box dinner and a flask of chilled saké or a few Japanese beers, watching lights twinkle in the little port towns across the water and feeling the pleasant weariness of legs that had seen some kilometres that day.

Evenings along the Alps2Ocean cycleway in New Zealand were much the same – although there, dinner was more likely to be a Kiwi lamburger and a crisp Marlborough savvy-b; and the view, a jagged silhouette of mountain peaks with the Milky Way blazing across the southern sky.

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LIFE ON THE MOVE

SHE SAYS Alice Agnew

Mazda MX-5

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It screams ‘fun fun fun’ and is designed to make its lucky driver smile.

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uesday morning in the RACT office, coffee in hand. I was mentally prepping for the coming onslaught of design requests when I noticed the key placed on my desk. I recognised it immediately and started grinning. It belonged to a vehicle that I had been awaiting with anticipation – Mazda’s latest MX5 Roadster. The timing was perfect – I had a quiet weekend ahead, with plenty of opportunities to play with my new accomplice and get a feel for what it had to offer.

I will confess that this was my first real experience with a sports car and I was surprised at just how small it was – standing next it, the roof was level with my hips. Getting into the driver’s seat was an adventure – a bottleneck requiring the contortion and navigation of limbs, it was a scene better suited for the Na’vi from Avatar.

But once in, the upright seating provided a snug fit with surprisingly-generous leg room. Half a street later and I promised never again to judge a car based on size.

It sounded just as I had hoped – frisky yet determined, with a satisfying burble that didn’t drown out the surrounding sound. The GT spec on test boasted a clean and mostly black leather interior with red stitching. The main control dial sat between both seats, with some controls accessible via steering wheel buttons.

internet connectivity as well as navigation. But I didn’t find the controls intuitive and it took time to understand the rotary dial system. Simple tasks like switching between the radio and the music on my phone left me frustrated.

I love cars that integrate well with technology.

Through its LCD panel display the Roadster gives access to a range of functions from hands-free phone operation, standard audio options,

But of course, practicality isn’t the MX-5’s job – this is a car built for cruising and enjoying the road. It screams ‘fun fun fun’ and is designed to make its lucky driver smile. And I sure did!

The Roadster is a soft-top convertible with manual operation that was astoundingly simple and easy to operate.

And have I mentioned how much fun it is? I headed south from Hobart and by the time I got to Woodbridge I was head-over-heels in love with the MX-5.

The sun was out and I experienced the sheer delight of driving with an open top and the wind in my hair. The pressures of the week fell away as I glided around bend after bend in the country road.

The fourth generation MX-5 is pure pleasure to drive, and I found myself choosing alternate routes just so I could make my way through the gears – transition was smooth and effortless, with minimal vibration through the gearstick.

Of course, there are some not-so-practical features. The boot size is … well, tiny. I momentarily forgot about this when purchasing two decent-sized planter pots – I had to make a second trip to collect them in my daily-drive car.

LIFE ON THE MOVE

HE SAYS Darren Moody

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he latest Mazda MX-5 isn’t totally new to me – I had previously spent some quality time with the 1.5L engine version and left it wondering if a bit more grunt under the bonnet would add to the pure driving experience.

When you’re a bit bigger than the average person, looking into the cockpit of an MX-5 is a bit daunting, not to mention how low it is to the ground. But once I managed to manoeuvre myself into the driver’s seat it all became much more comfortable than I remembered. Spacious it wasn’t, but comfortable enough nonetheless.

Ergonomics from the driver’s seat were good and the shifter was in just the right place.

Unlike Alice, I’ve had plenty of experience with Mazda’s MZD Connect system – the rotary dial allows fairly precise operation with just a couple of key control buttons surrounding it.

Add some key steering wheel-mounted buttons and most operations were simple and intuitive enough for me. Speakers in the headrest allowed you to enjoy your favourite tunes even with the top down and the wind rushing overhead.

The 2.0L SKYACTIVE-G engine provides 118kW and 200Nm, a jump of 22kW and 50Nm over the 1.5L engine, with maximum power

and torque available at lower revs. 118kW may not send shivers up your spine in terms of raw power, but with the MX-5 weighing in at a little over 1000kg, the power-to-weight ratio is pretty reasonable.

Generally when you think ‘sports car’ you imagine a bone-jarring ride – not so with the MX-5. It provides an extremely compliant ride and even a hint of body roll, but carve your way through a twisty section of road and it just bites and turns. In fact on my first drive the steering was so quick and precise I actually clipped the gravel on the inside of corners quite a few times.

Out in the country where the rev-happy 1.5L engine had you shuffling through the sublime six-speed shifter, you were totally immersed in the whole top-down, sports driving experience.

Well, did the bigger engine add to the driving experience? Here’s how I see it. There is no question that in the city, the extra torque allows you to pull higher gears at lower speeds, making for an easier drive. But out in the country where the rev-happy 1.5L engine had you shuffling through the sublime six-speed shifter, you were totally immersed in the whole top-down, sports driving experience.

My money says the 2.0L with the six-speed auto is a perfect match for those who want the look without the works, but the pureness of the 1.5L with a manual is what I’d buy.

The 2.0L Roadster GT is available at $39,550 manufacturer’s list price (add $2000 for auto) excluding on-roads.

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 JUNE / JULY 2016

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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

Rest while REMEMBERING Carol Whayman (centre) at the Sandy Bay plaque location with Debbie Crick (left) and Kim Bartlett from Road Trauma Support Tasmania

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n 1999, Carol Whayman lost her son Matt in a crash on the Midland Highway. Since then, she has dedicated her life to working in support of all victims of road trauma – especially the friends and family members who are so strongly affected by road crashes.

One of her recent projects has been to place remembrance plaques on seats in public places, so that people can pause and remember the victims of road trauma.

Just this year, Carol has worked with councils and supporting organisations to put plaques on seating at Kingston Beach and Long Beach, Sandy Bay. She is working towards placing plaques on seats in Glenorchy and Clarence.

The wording on the plaque invites people to ‘Rest while remembering.’

Matt Whayman was 26 years old when another driver crossed into his lane and crashed into his car on the Midland Highway, causing the deaths of three people

Casper Staak – giving back to young drivers

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fter a lifetime behind the wheel, Casper Staak is giving back some of his experience as a mentor for young drivers.

‘When I retired from a 30-year career in taxi driving, I was looking for something to fill in my spare time. A friend suggested becoming a mentor with the Driver Mentoring Tasmania program.

‘It seemed like the ideal activity. After an induction session I was partnered with another mentor for the first day. It was then I realised how important this activity is – it’s a really great feeling to know that you are passing on a key life skill to a young person.

‘We’ve all seen drivers do crazy things – and it’s often because they haven’t had enough experience to avoid

a bad situation. But if young drivers gain good skills when they’re learning, they can carry them on for many years to come.

‘Best of all, they are gaining experience from independent mentors, who can build on the skills they learn from their driving instructors. The young people we mentor have all had at least two lessons from expert instructors, usually from RACT Driver Training.

‘The combination of professional driver training and experienced mentors results in better drivers who pass their driving tests without inheriting bad habits.

‘It gives me great satisfaction when I see a learner grinning from ear to ear after they pass the examination for their P1 licence!’

The RACT offers and delivers training to Driver Mentoring Training’s statewide network at no cost, ensuring consistency in the skills that the mentors pass on. To learn more about the program – either as a learner driver or becoming a mentor – contact Driver Mentoring Tasmania’s State Coordinator Garry O’Byrne on 0409 832 764, email info@dmtas.org.au or visit drivermentoringtasmania.org.au.

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LIFE ON THE MOVE

Has the time come to stop driving?

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na Vandenberg is no stranger to tough conversations. An occupational therapist with nine years’ experience, Ana (pictured inset) spends a lot of her time assessing older drivers and finds there are some basic principles to follow when contemplating how long to keep driving.

‘In my experience, good driving habits generally allow you to drive for longer,’ Ana says.

Older drivers can contact Ana directly for some practical advice or an informal assessment; or they may be referred to Ana by a GP for a Medical Fitness to Drive Assessment. But this is not her preference – she says that if people can decide for themselves to stop driving, it is much more empowering.

The RACT agrees. We encourage older drivers to discuss the issue with family members and their broader support network. Reaching a decision to stop driving in this way is a far superior outcome than failing an assessment, which unfortunately is something Ana is confronted with. However, she has some good advice to help keep driving skills current.

‘Semi-regular driving lessons are a great way to get some proactive feedback,’ she says.

Another option is by participating in a CarFit program. The RACT works with Ana and two other occupational therapists to deliver the program for retirement villages, seniors clubs and associations. The program helps older drivers ‘fit’ with their vehicles by providing advice to help make them as safe and comfortable on the road as possible. Each session is free and in no way resembles an assessment or test.

We understand that the discussion can be difficult, but we agree with Ana that a positive first step is to start asking yourself whether it’s time to consider how long to keep driving.

For information about the CarFit program, please contact RACT Community Manager Will Oakley on 6236 4308 or email w.oakley@ract.com.au.

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

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LIFE ON THE MOVE

Prepare your home to save lives

T

hree minutes is all it can take to lose your home and family to fire – and the onset of winter increases the risk, the Tasmania Fire Service says.

A rise in the use of heaters, open fires and clothes dryers means that winter is the most dangerous time for house fires in the state.

TFS Community Education officer Chris Tomes said most fires in the cooler months could be avoided if people took simple precautions, such as: • Clean and maintain chimneys and heater flues yearly • Always use a metal fire screen with an open fire

Only working smoke alarms save lives!

Living Room

Bedroom 3

Bedroom 2 Hall

Dining

Bathroom & Toilet

Laundry

Kitchen

Study

Bedroom 1

www.fire.tas.gov.au

Important Fire Services strongly recommend installing a smoke alarm in every sleeping area (bedroom), hallway, living area and at the top of stairways. All smoke alarms must be replaced every 10 years.

Protect what you value!

• Do not leave your wood heater door open • Keep flammable material at least two metres away from heaters • Extinguish your open fire before leaving the house or going to bed • Be careful disposing of heater ash. Place ash in a metal container, well clear of the house and pour water over it • Use an electric heater that switches off automatically if knocked over • Position heaters away from heavy traffic areas in the house • Always turn heaters off when going to bed or leaving the house • Never leave cooking unattended • Install smoke alarms in each sleeping area, hallway and living area • Prepare and practise a home fire escape plan with the whole family • Never sleep with your electric blanket turned on. Don’t leave them on when you are not home and check for faulty wiring • Do not overload powerpoints • Switch off and unplug appliances when not in use • Clean clothes dryer lint filters before every use • Do not burn candles near flammable materials • Never smoke in bed • Keep matches and lighters locked away from children Mr Tomes warned that people could not rely on their senses to wake them up when they were asleep during a fire and that working smoke alarms could be the difference between life and death.

‘We urge all Tasmanians to test their smoke alarms to make sure they work,’ he said.

Mr Tomes also reminded rental property owners that from 1 May 2016 all smoke alarms in rental properties were required by law to be either mains-powered with battery backup or have a 10-year non-removable battery.

For details about how to make a fire escape plan, or for more information on fire safety, visit www.fire.tas.gov.au or free-call 1800 000 699.

JUNE / JULY 2016

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LIFE ON THE MOVE

Are you all thumbs when you cross the road?

A

public education campaign to warn pedestrians about the dangers of crossing the road while using a mobile phone should be considered, following the recent publication of pedestrian safety research by Austroads.

RACT General Manager Member Assist Darren Moody said it was important to challenge the perception that it was possible to cross the road safely while texting or using the internet on a mobile device. He said a campaign on the topic should particularly target young people.

‘The report noted that pedestrians accounted for 14 per cent of Australia’s annual road deaths,’ he said.

‘And international research suggests that pedestrian distraction from smart phones may lead to greater risk.

‘On top of this, ownership of smart phones in Australia is high, suggesting that this may present an emerging road safety challenge.’

The report said that 18-30 year-olds were at highest risk, with 30 per cent indicating that they used their smart

phones for texting or internet access at risky levels while crossing the road. It also found that up to 40 per cent of all pedestrians may be distracted by mobile phones when crossing the road.

Darren Moody said that countermeasures to combat the issue should include education and engineering interventions at high pedestrian-activity locations.

‘Most pedestrian fatalities occur at non-intersection locations,’ he said.

Austroads commissioned the research to explore community attitudes towards inf luencing safe pedestrian behaviour; to identify the groups most at risk of distracted walking; to pinpoint problem locations; and to investigate effective countermeasures.

Nearly 500 people were interviewed, either face-to-face or online, and an extensive review of literature was completed as part of the research. To find out more, visit www.austroads.com.au

Do you have a view on pedestrian safety and the use of mobile phones? Please visit the RACT Member Hub at ract.com.au and add a comment to the post.

Sitting pretty A

‘hip spica’ plaster cast immobilises a child’s legs and hips following hip surgery or a broken femur. The cast makes it hard to use many types of child restraints.

So when Andree Innes, Senior Occupational Therapist in Paediatrics at the Royal Hobart Hospital, identified one that her young patients could use comfortably, she contacted RACT to see if we could assist with the purchase of a seat that could be loaned to parents as required.

Motoring Services Manager Peter Gillon explained the situation to the seat manufacturer, BRITAX Safe & Sound.

‘We are delighted to report that BRITAX offered to donate one to the hospital,’ Mr Gillon said. ‘This model has no arm rests and a flat base, making it suitable for children in a hip spica cast.’

The RACT and RHH both thank BRITAX for the generous gesture. Now, Andree’s patients will be sitting pretty – safe & sound!

Who says Journeys doesn’t appeal to younger readers?

Oliver Pike, son of RACT Customer Service Consultant Katherine Pike, keeps a copy of the magazine in his bedroom to read after day-care. Kat says that Oliver loves the photos of cars, turning the pages with an enthusiastic ‘Brrrrrm Brrrrrm’ soundtrack!

JUNE / JULY 2016

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YOUNG YOUNGTASMANIAN TASMANIAN CREATIVITY CREATIVITYON ONDISPLAY DISPLAY 2016 2016marks marksthe theninth ninthyear year ofofTasmania’s Tasmania’spremier premier portraiture portraiturecompetition, competition, the theRACT RACTInsurance Insurance Tasmanian TasmanianPortraiture PortraiturePrize.

Prize.

The The RACT RACT Insurance Insurance Tasmanian Tasmanian Portraiture Portraiture Prize Prize invites invites Tasmanian Tasmanian artists, artists, aged aged 3030 and and under under to to produce produce a portrait a portrait of of important important to to them. them.

“It“It was was gratifying gratifying and and encouraging encouraging being being given given thethe acclaim acclaim of of a highly a highly respected respected judging judging panel, panel, and and thethe public, public, and and it’sit’s something something that that I believe I believe is important is important to to sustaining sustaining a spirited a spirited artart practice.” practice.”

This This year’s year’s judging judging panel panel willwill bebe made made upup of of aforementioned aforementioned 2015 2015 TPP TPP winner winner Alasdair Alasdair Doyle, Doyle, award award nominated nominated Melbourne Melbourne based based artist artist Carla Carla Fletcher, Fletcher, and and Tasmanian Tasmanian College College of of thethe Arts, Arts, UTAS UTAS lecturer lecturer Yvette Yvette Watt.

Watt.

MrMr Doyle Doyle expressed expressed that that although although it will it will bebe diffi diffi cult, cult, hehe is very is very excited excited to to bebe a part a part of of this this year’s year’s judging judging panel. panel.

Last Last year’s year’s winner, winner, Alasdair Alasdair Doyle, Doyle, who who stunned stunned judges judges with with hishis multimedia multimedia video video installation installation containing containing a bold a bold political political statement, statement, said said hehe strongly strongly urged urged artists artists to to enter enter thethe competition competition and and to to think think outside outside thethe box box with with their their work. work.

“I “I would would encourage encourage young young artists artists thinking thinking of of entering entering RACT RACT Insurance Insurance Tasmanian Tasmanian Portraiture Portraiture Prize Prize in in 2016 2016 to to bebe brave brave and and bold, bold, and and explore explore thethe limits limits of of portraiture portraiture and and mediums mediums in in which which portraiture portraiture can can bebe represented,” represented,” said said MrMr Doyle.

Doyle.

MrMr Doyle Doyle said said winning winning thethe RACT RACT Insurance Insurance Tasmanian Tasmanian Portraiture Portraiture Prize Prize was was a huge a huge confi confi dence dence booster booster both both personally personally and and forfor hishis practice. practice.

“Having “Having mymy name name associated associated with with such such a reputable a reputable program program and and arts arts body body has has been been immensely immensely benefi benefi cialcial towards towards thethe progression progression of of mymy career career and and towards towards accessing accessing new new networks,” networks,” hehe said. said.

Assail Assail Sulphur Sulphur Cockatoos Cockatoos by by Amber Amber Koroluk-Stephenson Koroluk-Stephenson

Uncle Mick by Chris Bury

“Being one of this year’s judges allows me to engage with a new perspective of the Tasmanian Portraiture Prize, and in doing so gain valuable professional experience.

“It is hugely humbling to be placed in a position wherein I am given the responsibility to judge my peers and I look forward to this no doubt diffi RACT Insurance CEO Trent Sayers said his organisation is thrilled to continually support such a dominant growth industry within Tasmania.

“By continuing our support of the Tasmanian Portraiture Prize and the local arts scene, RACT Insurance hopes to foster the development and passion of young Tasmanian artists,” said Mr Sayers.

“We feel it is important that local businesses do everything within their power to create opportunities for our youth to thrive within their chosen industry.

The winner of the 2016 RACT Insurance Tasmanian Portraiture Prize will receive $5,000 and a trip for two to the Archibald Prize exhibition in Sydney.

Entries are now open for the 2016 RACT Insurance Tasmanian Portraiture Prize.

explore the limits

The 2016 winners will be announced at the RACT Insurance TPP opening night

mediums in which portraiture can be represented”

“Applicants are continually surprising our judges by experimenting with a vast array of artistic mediums from multimedia/video, photographs, oils, acrylics, graphite, watercolours, print and animation, we can’t wait to see what 2016 has in store.”

Following the announcement, the artworks of all the shortlisted entries will be exhibited at Hobart’s Long Gallery before the exhibition moves to Launceston’s Sawtooth ARI Gallery and then

For more information visit www.taspp.com.au

INSURANCE by

LIFE ON THE MOVE

Keep your load T

railers full of garden rubbish with nothing covering it, tradies’ utes with tools hanging from the tray, a sofa or bed on a trailer without rope to secure it – these are all unsecured loads that can cause serious crashes by falling onto the road and into the path of other vehicles. People have died in crashes caused by unsecured loads.

Everyone has a role to play in keeping our roads safe. The Road Safety Advisory Council’s latest education campaign reminds ute or trailer owners to make sure their loads are safe and secure. The Council’s goal of zero deaths and serious injuries can only happen if everyone plays their part – this includes ensuring loads are secure.

Tasmanians will receive leaflets in their registration renewals for utes and trailers; and signs at some refuse disposal sites throughout the state will remind drivers to ‘Keep your load off the road’.

Drivers carrying a load are responsible for ensuring that it does not move, flap, sway or blow off. Police will issue fines to drivers carrying an unsecured load. Make sure your load is safe – cover, restrain or store items securely.

For more information visit: www.rsac.tas.gov.au/securedloads

DISTANCE MAKES On the road, like all social spaces, there are rules about distance. When you are travelling at more than 60km/h and pass a bike rider, always leave at least 1.5 metres between your car and the bike, or 1 metre if you’re travelling at 60 km/h or under. To make sure you can give enough space, you can now cross continuous centre lines when it’s safe to do so.

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LIFE ON THE MOVE

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LIFE ON THE MOVE

JULES’ GEMS Julian McGarry

Keys to the highway

A

n ever-increasing problem for RACT patrollers involves keys. Whether they’re keys, remotes or the newer proximity types, they will have electronic components within.

The keys use the latest transponder security technology, which is integrated into the vehicle’s on-board computer network.

I’ve seen keys taped together, bound in rubber bands, taken for a swim at the beach, lost in the sand. Often I find myself crawling around under the vehicle or under shop counters looking for the small electronic components from a dropped and broken key.

Do you have a spare key or remote? More to the point, do you know where it is? Maybe you’re purchasing a used car – if so, I would be definitely checking whether there are two sets of keys.

Without a key, your car is inoperative – and replacements often cost up to $1000. Depending on the availability of parts and the type of coding required, mobile automotive locksmiths are generally able to supply and code most models on the spot that day, although in some cases the vehicle will have to be towed to the dealer.

Keys that are lost or stolen may require a replacement computer as well as having new keys cut and coded – that’s an expensive business.

All remote keys/proximity keys have a small battery inside. As the battery discharges, so does its operating range. So if you notice you have to be a few steps closer to your car before it locks or unlocks, your batteries require replacement. In most cases there’s an override procedure in the event of battery failure – check your owner’s manual.

SAVE 25% at all our RACT Destinations

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s an RACT member, you’ll now save 25% off the public accommodation rate all year round at Cradle Mountain Hotel, Freycinet Lodge and Strahan Village - plus a complimentary welcome drink on arrival and exclusive seasonal member offers.

To access the discount, book directly with the property or through www.ract.com.au.

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 JUNE / JULY 2016

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LIFE ON THE MOVE

FIRST DRIVES with Darren Moody

FALCON XR SPRINT SAVING THE BEST FOR LAST

I

t appears as though the folks from Ford Australia have been holding out on us. Or is it a matter of saving the best for last? Either way, a small group of car enthusiasts working within the walls of Ford Australia has managed to put together the most powerful and competent-handling XR Falcons ever produced.

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LIFE ON THE MOVE

It might be the V8 that makes all the noise and theatrics, but the turbo six is the sleeper.

Available in either supercharged V8 or turbo six, both pack a punch not seen before in the XR series. For me however it’s the XR8 that gets number one status, probably because a six-speed manual is available and of course the noise, both mechanical and exhaust-wise, coming from the superb supercharged V8 is something we won’t ever hear again in an Australian-produced Falcon.

It might be the V8 that makes all the noise and theatrics, but the turbo six is the sleeper. Pipping the V8 by one Nm, it accumulates speed via its six-speed auto-only ZF transmission like you wouldn’t believe. With a launch control mode and the electronic smarts controlling torque in every gear, it gets off the line with a minimum of fuss and then just hammers relentlessly as it builds to maximum torque and power in each gear.

Both engines have an over-boost capability, with the supercharged Miami V8 providing a base 345kW and 575Nm, which jumps to 400kW and 650Nm in over-boost mode. Similarly the Australian-designed and built turbo six delivers 325kW and 576Nm in normal mode, which jumps to 370kW and 650Nm in over-boost. This extra grunt is available as soon as the car is up to normal operating temperature for periods of up to 10 seconds at wide-open throttle and it resets with every gear change. If temperatures get too high under the bonnet, maximum power will gradually cut back to base specifications. With a 0 to 100km time of less than five seconds it will only be on a race circuit or in the Northern Territory that you’ll get the full experience.

Engines aren’t the only part of the XRs that have had a work-over. Aided by sticky Pirelli P-Zero tyres, the Ford gurus have finessed the suspension to provide better lateral grip, particularly around the front end on turn-in. A few aero tweaks including a small boot-lip spoiler assist in providing a more balanced car at speed. Contrary to what you might think, the dynamic improvements in the suspension have probably improved the ride quality over the standard XR8. Brakes have been upgraded to include Brembos at both ends, six-piston up front and four at the rear.

Other subtle design changes include black headlight bezels and black 19” alloys (9” at the rear and 8” up front). The XR6 Sprint gets a distinctive hockey stick-style ‘6’ sticker on the rear quarter panels, both get numerous Sprint logos and badges inside and out, with each vehicle getting a unique build plate number on the engine. The XR8 differs with its black-painted roof and mirrors.

Now for the bad news – unless you put a deposit down back in February you are unlikely to get your hands on one of the limited production (1250 in Australia) run of these cars. If you want one now, expect to pay more than the manufacturer’s list price for what will be a future investment.

There won’t be another one of these made.

FALCON XR SPRINT Manufacturer’s list prices: XR8 $59,990 manual

$62,190 auto XR6 $54,990 auto only

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 JUNE / JULY 2016

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CLICK YOUR WAY TO AN

ULTIMATE TASSIE EXPERIENCE WITH RACT MEMBER HUB

Sign up to the RACT Member Hub this June and you’re in the draw to WIN one of four ultimate Tassie experiences: Wild West Coast Adventure

Hobart Highlights

2 nights at Strahan Village + 2 seats on the Gordon River Cruise.

2 nights at RACT/RACV Hobart Apartment Hotel + a return trip in the Posh Pit on the Mona Ferry.

Cradle Mountain Feast

Romantic Retreat

2 nights at Cradle Mountain Hotel + dinner for two at Grey Gum Restaurant.

2 nights at Freycinet Lodge + 2 seats on the Wineglass Bay Cruise.

Visit hub.ract.com.au to sign up to the Member Hub today

IN TASMANIA TODAY

D

Mys tery , i n strantrigue ge t and ales

arkness falls and a hidden side of historic Port Arthur emerges. It is a different place after sunset, full of mystery and intrigue. Flickering lantern light draws you close to hear tales from long ago.

The rich storytelling of black-cloaked guides and the journey through darkened ruins and heritage buildings reveal bizarre occurrences during Port Arthur’s long history – stories that baffled and alarmed convicts, free settlers and soldiers as much as they do today’s visitors.

For nearly 30 years, the popular Port Arthur Ghost Tour has revealed another side of the infamous convict settlement. The tour departs nightly whatever the weather, and unlike many other ghost tours around the world, visitors on the Port Arthur Ghost Tour have exclusive access to the World Heritage-listed site, so the atmosphere can’t be shattered by crowds or traffic.

One should never embark on a Ghost Tour on an empty stomach, so the Port Arthur Historic Site’s After Dark package combines the Ghost Tour with a delicious two-course meal at Felons, offering excellent value.

Bookings are recommended. www.portarthur.org.au

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 .

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FEMALE FACTORY Discover the stories of Australia’s convict women – Tours from $15pp JUNE / JULY 2016

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37

IN TASMANIA TODAY

BIG ISLAN

of the

OUR SLICE

Crossing desert storms for Tasmanian peaches Karen Harrland

‘I

t looks like a giant’s foot breaking through the clouds, ready to crush the ground,’ my 10 year-old daughter said as she gazed out the window at the stormy black sky erupting beside us. I glanced over and my foot pressed down harder on the accelerator.

We had left the homestead 10 minutes earlier, the first rays of sun only just lighting the road enough to enable me to see the kangaroos and emus that lined the route like desert kamikaze pilots.

I was driving our Subaru Outback and trailer up a dirt track. We were heading to Adelaide Airport to catch a plane back to Tasmania. Some precious friends had bought me a ticket home for my 40th birthday and I was rushing over before our School of the Air lessons began for the year.

Our family had moved up to Boolcoomatta Reserve, west of Broken Hill, the previous year, exchanging our forested mountains for flat, stony plains and gnarled river redgums, each seeming to contain an ancient story within its knots and branches.

My idyllic school garden job at Margate Primary had 38

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been traded-in for teaching my own three young children, with both the challenges and blessings that involved.

With life and school merging, we spent the last part of the year exploring the 63,000-hectare reserve.

School consisted of long hours on the books, but also lessons from the landscape.

We marvelled at old Aboriginal wells and examined lumps of green, copper-rich rock. In the evenings, we would climb rocky outcrops and watch the dipping sun soften the burning air to a haze of orange, then search through cracks and caves for the elusive yellow-footed rock wallaby.

At the dam we discovered feral pigs, which were promptly transferred to the barbecue. While the meat sizzled, we sat on our wide verandah and watched as hundreds of galahs careered over the dam as one, and emu fathers, with up to forty-six chicks in their crèche, wandered past. We kept a careful eye out for centipedes on the floor inside – they were prone to crawling along with an aggression that seemed intent on finding a child’s bare toes to latch onto.

above: Alistair Dermer watches the sunset at Boolcoomatta Reserve, South Australia photo:

Jeroen van Veen

IN TASMANIA TODAY

The beauty of the country made itself known in the shimmer of heat above the bluebush, the colour at the heart of the precious purple-wood tree, or the broad glide of the wedge-tailed eagles as they looped above.

top row (l– r):

Storm front over homestead; Karen installing motionsensor cameras to monitor feral and native fauna; wedge-tailed eagle; Clay, Karen, Asha, Al and Zavier with Bella the kelpie bottom row (l– r):

Western brown snake caught at the house and relocated by Alistair; Karen and Bella at sunset; Zavier the lizard catcher; Zavier at Eagle Rock photos:

Alistair Dermer and Karen Harrland

The brown snakes that turned up in the house yard were gently relocated, including a baby brown that found its way inside, despite my loud yells of fear for our children.

After some weeks of being on the property we adjusted. My eyes felt rather than saw the flat plains lift, so that climbing a small rocky knoll now felt like Mt Wellington.

The beauty of the country made itself known in the shimmer of heat above the bluebush, the colour at the heart of the precious purple-wood tree, or the broad glide of the wedge-tailed eagles as they looped above.

Over time my heart settled, and I exhaled, as though I could suddenly stretch as far as I could go. Our Tasmanian community was far away, but a new one was making itself known. The neighbours welcomed us with open arms, lamb on the barbecue and home-grown figs. We felt blessed, and indeed we were, with space, peace and the joy of living as a part of the landscape, rather than on the periphery.

As my daughter and I drove that morning down our 27km driveway, with the storm chasing us, we revelled in the anticipation of heading back to loved ones, fresh peaches and cold ocean.

The gravel turned to mud 20km down the road and I realised with alarm that there had been a shower on it already.

We fishtailed across the road for kilometres, the trailer echoing our slides. I gritted my teeth and prepared for getting bogged, missing our flight, and waiting for hours, if not days, to get out.

Somehow we made it to the highway. I paused, head in my hands, before turning triumphantly toward Adelaide. With alarm, I pulled my foot off the accelerator. The storm had hit, and torrential rain made the road and an oncoming semi-trailer a grey blur.

Thunder rolled and lightning forked through the water. The rain cleared a little to show the road.

The once-dry creek bed alongside now writhed with brown froth, exploding across our path. Water came as a wave to the roof as we crossed.

The 50km journey to Olary was made through two inches of rain. On reaching the tiny town I pulled over and sank back in my seat. I got through to my husband who said the road behind us to Boolcoomatta was now closed. I breathed out slowly. Another six hours’ drive to go until we got to the airport, but we persevered. Fresh peaches awaited!

Karen Harrland is author of ‘Spinifex Baby’, which won the national Finch Memoir Prize in 2014.

You can find more captured moments at www.karenharrland.com – and follow her family’s work on Boolcoomatta Reserve at www.bushheritage.org.au/places-we-protect/south-australia/boolcoomatta JUNE / JULY 2016

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IN TASMANIA TODAY

A PORTFOLIO Rod Hartvigsen

40

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IN TASMANIA TODAY

opposite:

‘Catacomb’ clockwise spiral from top left: ‘Lost (aka No Canoes)’; Cable Beach icons; colours of the Pilbara; South Bruny aurora; albatross, Southern Ocean; turtle, James Price Point, WA; diving tern, D’Entrecasteaux Channel; lightning in Broome

Rod Hartvigsen specialises in landscape photography but also delves into abstract natural art imagery, wildlife themes and photography of people. Growing up in remote Australian locations developed his deep love of the bush and wild places. He lived in Broome for many years and much of his work reflects the rich colours of this spectacular region.

Rod has recently moved to South Bruny Island – about as far from the far north-west as you can go – and his current photography features Tasmanian landscapes and wildlife. www.murranji.com.au JUNE / JULY 2016

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IN TASMANIA TODAY

T

Picking day on the island

he vintage at Bruny Island Premium Wines is a community affair. This year, about 100 keen pickers descended on Australia’s southernmost vineyard and cleared a bumper harvest of pinot noir and chardonnay grapes.

Owners Bernice and Richard Woolley were excited about the yield and the quality of the 2016 crop.

‘We needed a good one this year, because the storeroom is just about empty after a busy season at the cellar door and bistro,’ Bernice (below) said.

You’ll find Bruny Island Premium Wines just north of Lunawanna on South Bruny. Richard and Bernice have recently opened a new wine-tasting area – call in to sample the wines and stay for a lunch of local island produce. The vineyard platter is a favourite – match it with a pinot, chardonnay or a glass of their own farmhouse-style cider.

Winners (APR/MAY)

ROCK OF AGES Diane Milne, Richmond HABEUS CORPUS Barbara Peart, Forcett BLACK CROWN Tommy Wilson, Acton Park Doreen Moore, Norwood MJ Abell, Boat Harbour

Good day sunshine I

f you’re planning a long-distance driving trip northwards the sunshine this winter, you’ll want one of these. The Projecta Solar Panel Kit is a neat, efficient and convenient way to keep your 12V batteries charged. The kit unfolds into a six-panel array – collapsible poles make it easy to place in the best position towards the sun and there’s a five-metre connection lead. The built-in solar controller has LED indicators to show the charging progress.

A regulator prevents overcharging and protects against discharge. There are 80W and 120W versions. Tasmanian suppliers include Repco, Burson Automotive, TJM 4WD Megastore, Cooldrive, Ashdown-Ingram, Independent Battery Distributors and RKS Sales.

More: www.projecta.com.au 42

Journeys

JUNE / JULY 2016

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 8 July 2016.

Last issue the Black Crown was on page 13.

IN TASMANIA TODAY

on the

on the

BOOKSHELF

STAGE

The Long Con

The Peasant Prince

A

Theatre Royal, 23 & 24 June

rtist turned crime writer Barry Weston brings us the story of Frank Cousins, a former Queensland cop who is the owner and sole employee of the Tasmanian Private Investigation Agency in Hobart.

Weston’s novel takes readers on a journey full of bad people, bad situations and bad behaviour, based in our fair harbourside city.

B

ased on the book of the same name by Li Cunxin, billed as ‘the true story of Mao’s Last Dancer’, this Monkey Baa Theatre Company Production follows Li’s life story from a small boy in rural China to studying at an elite dance academy in Beijing, where his dreams of a better life are fulfilled.

Dead Wood

The Wharf Revue

A

Theatre Royal, 30 June – 2 July

nother in a series of crime fiction novels from Tasmanian author Stephen John Brown, Dead Wood sees DI John Mahoney investigate the brutal murder of a prominent business leader.

As pressure mounts, another homicide quickly follows and DI Mahoney must call on his full array of investigative skills to get a result.

Superstitions and why we have them

O

ur everyday lives are filled with subconscious superstitions – clinking glasses when drinking a toast, unlucky number 13, saying ‘bless you’ after sneezing and many more. Writer, broadcaster and entertainer Max Cryer’s new book takes a look at the origins of these, with eye-opening results.

No Room for Watermelons

I

t’s a tale of epic proportions – riding a 102-year-old FN motorcycle for 14,600 kilometres across 15 countries into some of the world’s most hostile territory. No Room for Watermelons follows retired diesel mechanic Ron Fellowes’ trip of a lifetime, capturing his stoic determination to fulfill his dream.

Between Two Moons

A

new publication by Tasmanian writer Judith E.P. Johnson, this book of haiku and senryu captures scenes from the author’s daily life, as well as the beauty of nature. This book paints small pictures with simple language, inspiring the imagination.

O

ver 15 years and 21 shows, they’ve mercilessly mocked all the usual suspects – politicians and media personalities – through satirical sketches and songs. No one has been able to outplay, outwit or outlast The Wharf Revue. So, Sydney Theatre Company is throwing a party and everyone’s invited.

A Salute to the Singer-Songwriters Rosny College Auditorium, 19 June

presents

The Lincoln Singers, South ern Voices and Men in Black

celebrating the music of Elton John, Neil Diamond, Lennon & Macartney, John Denver, Peter Allen, ABBA, the BeeGees…

T

he Lincoln Singers, Southern Voices ‘A SALUTE TO THE and Men in Black are bringing SINGER-SONGWRITERS ’ back some of the greatest music of our time in A Salute to the Singer-Songwriters.

Celebrating the talents of Elton John, Neil Diamond, Lennon & McCartney, John Denver, Peter Allen, ABBA, the BeeGees and more, this event is sure to get your toes tapping.

Tickets from Lindisfarne and Bellerive newsagencies or www.trybooking.com/LAES Sunday, May 22, 2pm

Kingborough Senior Citizens Club Redwood Road Tickets from Bertoz Jewellers and www.trybooking.com/LAEJ

Saturday, June 4, 2pm

Launceston’s Salvation Army Auditorium 111 Elizabeth St Tickets from Barratt’s Music and www.trybooking.com/LAEP

Sunday June 19, 2pm

Rosny College Auditorium 20 Bastick St. Rosny e Newsagency and the Bellerive Newsagency and www.trybooking.com/LAES

Tickets from the Lindisfarn

Tickets $20 adults, $15 conc.

and $5 children 6-16 yrs.

Includes afternoon tea.

Macbeth Playhouse Theatre, 15 – 30 July

I

nspired by elements of Japanese culture past and present, this version of William Shakespeare’s Macbeth will be unlike anything you’ve seen before.

With the added bonus of live taiko drumming to underscore the show, this Hobart Rep production will be a feast for the senses, featuring a superbly talented cast.

JUNE / JULY 2016

Journeys

43

1998429

IN TASMANIA TODAY

W

Hobart is heating up over winter

Tourism Tasmania and Peter Whyte

ith big events lined up including Dark Mofo, Festival of Voices and the Huon Valley Mid-Winter Festival, Hobart’s days of winter hibernation are officially over. An influx of event-bound visitors will soon hit our shores, so if you are planning a break or expecting a visit from family or friends, now is the perfect time to lock-in your accommodation and take advantage of your member benefit of 25% off accommodation.

The RACV/RACT Hobart Apartment Hotel is based in the heart of the action and offers a number of packages that are perfect for exploring Hobart’s attractions or simply enjoying a winter getaway.

Explore one of Hobart’s icons with the Heritage Hobart Cascade Package, including overnight accommodation, welcome Cascade drinks, Cascade Brewery tour and full buffet breakfast.

Marvel at the contemporary Hobart art scene with the Mona Special, including return ferry transfers, entry to Mona and overnight accommodation and breakfast for two.

To book or for more information visit ract.com.au/ract-hobart-apartment-hotel

Finding your way

T

On parade R

eserve Forces Day Parade 2016 will be held in Hobart on 3 July. It is a day to remember and thank our reserve forces from Navy, Army and Air Force, their families and employers. This year’s theme is ‘The Gallantry Continues’, with special recognition of the 50th Anniversary of the Battle of Long Tan, Vietnam in 1966. Past and present reserves, regulars and descendants are invited to wear medals and parade.

Many notable dignitaries will attend including Lt Dave Sabben MG (ret’d), a platoon commander during the Long Tan engagement. He will lay a wreath at the Cenotaph in remembrance. Other guests will represent gallantry in other actions.

44

Journeys

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Members of the NZ Artillery Association, many of whom participated in Long Tan, have been invited.

The salute will be taken by Major General the Honourable Michael Jeffery, AC, AO (mil), CVO, MC (ret’d) a past Governor General of the Commonwealth of Australia.

Everyone is invited to join us immediately after the parade at the Hope and Anchor Tavern, 65 Macquarie St, Hobart.

Date: 3 July 2016 Location: Hobart Cenotaph VIP Arrivals: 11am Time: Form up at 10:30am – parade commences 11am

ASMAP, Tourism Tasmania and the RACT have released a new version of the popular and practical touring map of Tasmania. It highlights tourist features and services on the main 1:500,000 map, with large-scale town and city maps featured on the reverse.

This map is the most comprehensive map for locals and visitors to our island – it’s ideal for planning your next trip and locating national parks, historic features, information centres, major walks, ferries, markets, cruises, galleries, museums, fishing locations and all of the other activities you can enjoy on your Tasmanian adventure.

The collaboration between the Tasmanian Government and the RACT is a great example of working together to provide an excellent product for our community.

The map is on sale now at RACT branches for just $4 (RACT members) or $7 (non-members.)

RIGHT

WAVE AND SAVE NEW SAVINGS THIS WINTER

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

In branch | Online | 13 27 22 |

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Show your RACT member card instore to receive 7.5% discount off our normal retail prices *Excludes gift card purchases, sale items & K&D Bricks & Blocks

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It’s amazing what a little snooze can do. snooze.com.au

Snooze Launceston, 45-61 Charles Street, Launceston. Ph 6331 7811

10% OFF * AT REPCO EVERY DAY! 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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WIN A TRIP FOR 2 TO HAWAII INCLUDES RETURN FLIGHTS, ACCOMMODATION FOR 5 NIGHTS, TRANSFERS & $1000 SPENDING MONEY!

Simply use your RACT Membership card at a participating United Petroleum site during June 2016 and, on top of your fuel discount you’ll also go into the draw to WIN!

Please go to new.unitedpetroleum.com.au/ract/fuelup-fly/ for details and terms and conditions.

YOUR TRAVEL NEWS

SOUTH AMERICA | AUSTRALIA | EUROPE | THE PACIFIC

51

Canadian Rockies by rail

55

Feeling the heat in Fiji

65

New Zealand cruise and coach

JUNE / JULY 2016

TRAVEL by RACT

Easy getaways with Thrifty W

hether you’re looking to book a relaxing weekend away or a winter escape to the sunshine, Thrifty is here to make your holiday experience all the more special.

As RACT’s exclusive car rental partner, Thrifty offers RACT members exclusive benefits and huge savings across Australia and New Zealand. A convenient Thrifty location is never far away, so whether you’re renting in New Zealand, mainland Australia or Tasmania, you’ll have access to the best vehicles, best deals and award-winning customer service with Thrifty.

Thrifty services more than 240 locations across Australia and New Zealand with a wide range of passenger and commercial vehicles.

Whether you are after a smart and efficient SUV, an economical coupe, 4WD, family sedan or a luxury vehicle, ute or a truck, Thrifty has the right vehicle to suit your needs.

If you are out on the road in a hire car with family and swapping driving duties, Thrifty helps you save. It’s handy to know that RACT members enjoy the ‘Additional Driver Fee Waiver’ and have the second driver drive for free. (Offer valid in Australia) It’s worth making sure that you are fully covered throughout your holiday. Reducing the risk on your vehicle for a small fee can often save you in the long run. As an RACT member you can take advantage of the discounted Collision Damage Waiver Protection options from Thrifty for complete peace of mind. You’ll also enjoy a $5 per day discount off Thrifty’s Damage Waiver Ultimate Protection option, to help you reduce your excess to zero.

So hurry, get on the road with Thrifty for a fun-filled holiday!

Thrifty Car Rental is RACT’s exclusive car hire partner and offers exclusive savings to RACT members.

For bookings, go to www.ract.com.au/thrifty or call RACT Travel on 1300 368 111

50

Journeys

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TRAVEL by RACT with endless views of old-growth forests, glacier-capped mountain peaks and shimmering waterfalls. The journey comes alive with Rocky Mountaineer’s on-board hosts keeping guests engaged and entertained with stories of each passing region. With its impeccable on-board service, gourmet cuisine and luxurious surroundings, it is no wonder a Rocky Mountaineer rail journey is considered by many to be one of the world’s ultimate travel experiences.

Among the world’s ultimate travel experiences T

he Rocky Mountaineer is renowned for creating life-changing experiences for more than one million guests, on five different rail routes from the Pacific Northwest to the majestic Canadian Rockies.

Guests from across the globe appreciate the exceptional on-board experience and revel in the stunning Western Canadian scenery,

To highlight the iconic destinations in the Canadian Rockies, the company offers more than 45 holiday packages including several rail and cruise itineraries that combine a luxury rail holiday with a dramatic Alaskan cruise. Rocky Mountaineer’s newest rail route is the Coastal Passage – a seamless coastline connection between Seattle, Washington and the Canadian Rockies. With many cruise options from either Seattle or Vancouver ports, the Coastal Passage route provides guests with numerous options for customising their holiday.

Renowned for its luxurious bi-level dome coaches, Rocky Mountaineer’s GoldLeaf Service trains feature optimal views of epic scenery and wildlife such as black bears, elk, bighorn sheep and moose. GoldLeaf service offers dining rooms where internationallyacclaimed chefs create outstanding à la carte dishes, made with the freshest of regional ingredients. Selections include wild Pacific salmon, prime Alberta beef and locally-sourced vegetables, accompanied by award-winning wines from British Columbia’s Okanagan Valley.

SilverLeaf Service offers the same stunning views from luxurious single-level dome coaches with chef-inspired meals served seat-side and storytelling throughout the journey.

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

Discover the Canadian Rockies

by Rail

S

ince 1990, guests have travelled to iconic FREE destinations within the AIRPORT Canadian Rockies and the LIMOUSI NE Pacific Northwest on an TRANSFE * RS exhilarating, all-daylight rail journey that sweeps past glacier-fed lakes, rushing rivers, and majestic mountain ranges.

Discover Rocky Mountaineer’s five unique rail routes, award-winning service, delicious onboard cuisine, and breaktaking views.

Ask about additional Rocky Mountaineer offers and enjoy added value!

*Conditions apply. The Member Bonus offer is available on new 2017 Rocky Mountaineer bookings only made by 31Jul16. Offer is applicable to Rocky Mountaineer packages of 4 or more nights from the 2017 Rocky Mountaineer brochure. Travel during the 2017 Rocky Mountaineer summer season between April and October 2017. Offer is available in conjunction with other Rocky Mountaineer offers, not available in conjunction with any other offer. Qualifying packages can be purchased in any class of train travel or grade of accommodation. Offer must be requested at the time of booking and will not be automatically allocated or retrospectively added. Offer cannot be deferred to a later trip or refunded. Offer is not applicable to Group Tour bookings. Offer is capacity controlled and may be modified, withdrawn or amended without prior notice. Additional conditions apply. Credit card fees of up to 2% will apply on bookings. For any additional travel arrangements outside of this offer service fees may apply. Please ask at the time of booking. RACT Travel Pty Ltd ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS A11470.

JUNE / JULY 2016

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51

TRAVEL by RACT

V

Indulge your senses in southern Australia

ibrant, cosmopolitan cities, impressive wine regions, diverse wildlife and spectacular natural landscapes – from the ACT, through Victoria to South Australia itself, the southern regions of Australia have it all. AAT Kings’ experienced and friendly travel directors and driver guides will bring the area to life, sharing their local knowledge and wonderful stories – and of course, doing all the driving for you. Along the way you’ll meet local farmers, winemakers and whiskey distillers and indulge in their delectable produce while you take in the region’s magnificent scenery.

AAT Kings' 11-day Tastes of Southern Australia Guided Holiday showcases the ACT, country Victoria, cosmopolitan Melbourne and the spectacular coast and delicious produce of Southern Australia.

Visit Australia’s capital Canberra and get a taste of farm life before a guided tour of Parliament House. After exploring the exciting city of Melbourne on a sightseeing tour, you’ll take in the spectacular landscapes of the Great Ocean Road and visit the Twelve Apostles, amazing limestone formations towering 45m above the sea. In Warrnambool, hear an Aboriginal perspective on the flora, wildlife, volcanic formations, bush existence and medicinal practices at Tower Hill State Game Reserve – then excite your taste buds in the Coonawarra wine region before boarding a ferry at Cape Jervis, bound for Kangaroo Island, famous for its unspoiled natural beauty, wildlife and fresh local produce. Waiting for you next are the rolling hills of the Barossa, where you’ll have the opportunity to taste world-renowned wines.

We make it easy to explore all the wide and varied regions of southern Australia – so don’t delay booking your next escape. And here’s a great deal – RACT members can save up to $400* per couple on the 11 day Tastes of Southern Australia Guided Holiday.

For more information visit your nearest RACT Travel branch or call 1800 368 111

Indulge your senses with AAT Kings

Tastes of Southern Australia Sydney to Adelaide 11 day Guided Holiday from $3753* per person, twin share

• Travel along the magnificent Great Ocean Road

• Enjoy a guided tour through impressive Parliament House

• Visit the Twelve Apostles and Loch Ard Gorge

• Discover Melbourne’s colourful hidden laneways on a revealing walking tour

• Experience farm life at Gold Creek Sheep Station

• Visit the Coonawarra for a wine tasting • Taste delicious local cuisine & wine on Kangaroo Island • Includes breakfast daily and many other meals

MEMBER’S BONUS SAVE UP TO

$400* per couple

*Conditions: Prices are per person, land only, twin share. RACT member discount of 5% has been deducted from the price. Savings include the RACT member discount of 5%. Valid for travel on selected departures from 12 April 2016 – 19 Dec 2017. Blackout departure dates may apply. Subject to availability and seasonal surcharge. Member bonus valid on new bookings only until 31 Dec 2016. For additional travel arrangements outside this offer service fees may apply. AAT Kings booking conditions apply. ATAS 10527. RACT Travel Pty Ltd ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS No. A11470

11464

RACT Ad.indd 1 / JULY 2016 52 11464 Journeys JUNE

14/04/16 4:27 PM

when paid in full by 15 Feb 2016

TRAVEL by RACT

HERE...

A new era with Aria Darren White, Travel Consultant, Cruise Travel Centre Hobart The naming of a ship is a very special event and I had the privilege of participating in the recent inaugural Australian naming ceremony and cruise on P&O Aria.

We sailed into Sydney Harbour on a beautiful sunny day with four other P&O cruise ships, creating cruising history as the first cruise line to have five ships in Sydney Harbour at the same time.

Cruising is all about experiences and P&O Aria offers many on-board entertainment activities, including the P&O Edge Adventure Park, where you can test your nerve on the Flying Fox, and the Blue Room for live music all day – and all night.

With the sound of horns blaring and water cannons spraying, P&O Aria arrived to the fanfare befitting a new ship to the P&O fleet.

P&O Aria marks a new level of elegance in the Australian market. From The Pantry where food is served from individual food stations, to the Salt Grill by Luke Mangan speciality restaurant, I enjoyed a premier food experience at sea.

I really enjoyed my time aboard P&O Aria. Come and see me in-store – I’d love to share more of my first-hand knowledge and experience with you.

Join Ovation of the Seas in Hobart It’s not too late to join your fellow Tasmanians on this unique opportunity to cruise from Hobart on one of the latest stateof-the-art ships Australia has ever seen.

We bring you this fantastic opportunity to cruise New Zealand for 12 days from Hobart – no early flight check-ins and no chance of missing the boat!

Royal Caribbean Lines’ Ovation of the Seas debuts in Australia later this year and offers a game-changing array of services and on-board activities, including the first-ever sky diving simulator at sea, flow rider, bumper cars, 18 different restaurant choices including Jamie’s Italian by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver – and even robotic barmen to mix your cocktails!

Cabins are filling fast for this offer to embark in Hobart on 18 December 2016. The ship docks back into Sydney on 30 December 2016 and all you need to add is your return connection Sydney to Tasmania. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy Christmas at sea this year and take all the hassles out of your festive season.

Call the Cruise Travel Centre or your nearest RACT Travel branch today to secure your cabin.

CRUISE NEW ZEALAND ABOARD

TS DEPART IN R A B O H BER DECEM from 12 Nights

this Christmas

$

3,799

*

are

sh pp, twin

50*

$

ONBOA RD CREDIT per stateroo m

THE MOST DIVERSE AND TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED CRUISE SHIP TO EVER SAIL AUSTRALIAN WATERS!

• Northern Star Observation Capsule • First ever skydiving simulator at sea • Largest indoor active space at sea featuring bumper cars & roller rink • First ever Martini Mixing Robots • 40-foot FlowRider® surf simulator • 8 superb restaurants including Jamie Oliver’s Italian & much more!

For further information please call 1300 368 111 or www.ract.com.au/travel a member of

Burnie Devonport Launceston

6434 2955 6421 1977 6335 5655

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

Rosny 6212 6777 CRUISE TRAVEL CENTRE 6222 9222

*Price is per person in AUD based on twin occupancy, inclusive of all taxes & fees (which are subject to change) and onboard gratuities (tips). Price shown is for the lowest Balcony stateroom available at time of going to print. Price shown is for a cash payment – credit card fees of up to 2% will apply. Availability is limited. To be read in conjunction with the conditions in Royal Caribbean International Worldwide Cruise Holidays 2015-2016 brochure. Price may be withdrawn or changed at any time. RACT Travel Pty Ltd. ABN 45 144 538 803. A11470.

JUNE / JULY 2016

Journeys

53

TRAVEL by RACT

THERE...

Cruise and coach – the perfect combination for a modern day holiday Christine Benbow, Sales Manager, RACT Travel Both ocean and river cruising are enjoying unprecedented success with the seemingly endless launch of new ships, itineraries and destinations to suit all possible needs and wants of the Australian holiday-maker. So what happened to coach touring? Australians loved that 5-6 week long service leave or retirement trip to UK and Europe – and the ‘rite of passage’ back-packing journey for younger travellers usually included a coach touring component. Well, I’m pleased to say that coach touring is still there, better than ever – and now, it’s all about freedom of choice. No longer does a touring day consist of breakfast in France and dinner in Switzerland (so that comfort stop must have been Liechtenstein!)

Today’s touring means exploring country roads, easy-paced itineraries and in-depth focus on countries, regions or themes, such as gardens or food & wine. There are smaller groups and tailor-made options.

Accommodation may be local inns, villas, castles and boutique hotels.

Home visits are popular, to see how the locals live. You can choose where you want to dine at night and it’s still included in your tour cost.

A cruise will take you to some amazing ports or let you meander along a river system – but if you want to see Madrid, Berlin, Edinburgh, the Cotswolds, Mt Rigi, the Matterhorn or the real Oktoberfest, then you will need to travel on land. Combining a cruise with a coach tour where both are enriching experiences will create a truly memorable itinerary that is customised to your individual interests, without having to compromise your holiday standards.

Let RACT Travel and Cruise Travel Centre make your dream holiday a reality – on land and on water!

Use American Express® Membership Rewards points to pay for your next getaway*

Come in store and start planning your dream holiday For further information please call 1300 368 111 or www.ract.com.au/travel a member of

Burnie Devonport Launceston

6434 2955 6421 1977 6335 5655

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

Rosny 6212 6777 CRUISE TRAVEL CENTRE 6222 9222

*Conditions apply. RACT Travel Pty Ltd. ABN 45 144 538 803. ATAS No. A11470.

54

Journeys

JUNE / JULY 2016

TRAVEL by RACT

& EVERYWHERE Chris McLennan

Feeling the heat in Fiji and beyond Christine Benbow, Sales Manager, RACT Travel It’s winter once again and our holiday thoughts turn to skiing or warm sunshine.

And if it’s warmth you are after, you cannot beat Fiji for a fantastic short break.

It’s always been a great favourite for Australians, with resort-style offerings on the Coral Coast, situated on the main island of Viti Levu, to smaller offshore island stays and multi-island cruise itineraries on small ships.

Within easy flying distance, Fiji is made up of many islands that offer a range of accommodation options from the budget to the luxurious. There are many sightseeing choices including village visits, cultural experiences, nature and hiking trips, fishing, cruising and sailing and a vast array of water-based sports and activities, so you can be as busy or as relaxed as you want to be.

A highlight is the Fijian warrior fire-dancing offered at various resorts, leaving you with unforgettable memories. The currency is easy to manage, the people are friendly and speak English, the locals love looking after children and you will find the quiet lifestyle carefree and easy-paced. See some great Fiji deals on pages 62-63.

If South Pacific isn’t your thing, then Thailand, Vietnam, Singapore and Malaysia all have wonderful beach holidays that can be combined with city stays brimming with ancient culture, not to mention amazing shopping. Thailand is popular, however the others are often overlooked in favour of the more well-known destinations. Our consultant Stephanie Jay recently returned from the Maldives for her personal warm weather getaway. The Maldives is easily combined with Singapore, as Steph did, or Malaysia and is a wonderful alternative for Australians.

STEPH SAYS: ‘Spectacular scenery, picturesque coral and pure relaxation – welcome to the breathtaking Maldives. You can comfortably travel alone as I did, or enjoy the destination as a couple or family – however you go, it’s the place to be!

‘I discovered the Maldives on a seven-day sailing trip and as soon as I stepped off the aircraft I knew it was going to be amazing.

I snorkelled in the clearest of waters, swam with turtles, discovered sand banks in the middle of the ocean and met some of the friendliest locals.

‘The beaches are wonderful and the weather is perfect to enjoy them at any time, with temperatures in the 30s during the day and a little cooler at night. I visited four of the 26 atolls and it was everything I ever imagined – one of the best places I’ve had the pleasure of visiting. Come and see me at RACT Travel Kingston to talk about the Maldives or travelling solo – I’d love to share my experiences!’

– S tephanie Jay, Travel Consultant, RACT Travel Kingston

DISCOVER CANADA, ALASKA & THE USA

RACT Travel and APT invite you to enjoy an in-depth look through Canada, Alaska & the USA. Discover stunning mountains and glaciers, friendly cities & dramatic coastlines. Let our APT expert show you how to witness these amazing destinations on a luxury escorted APT tour.

VENUES, DATES AND TIMES: HOBART :05 July 10:00am – 11:30am – C3 Convention Centre, South Hobart LAUNCESTON: 06 July 10:00am – 4:00pm – RACT Travel Office Guest Desk DEVONPORT: 07 July 9:30am – 11:00am – Devonport Entertainment Centre BURNIE: 07 July 1:00pm – 4:00pm – RACT Travel Office Guest Desk

SAVE $500* PER COUPLE PLUS GO IN THE DRAW TO WIN A $500 CASH PASSPORT CARD! RSVP’S ESSENTIAL! Please contact your nearest RACT Travel office or email travelcallcentre@ract.com.au a member of

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 *Conditions apply. RACT Travel Pty Ltd. ABN 45 144 538 803. A11470.

JUNE / JULY 2016

Journeys

55

MEMBER’S BONUS

BEST TOUR OPERATOR DOMESTIC

BEST RIVER CRUISE OPERATOR

BEST TOUR OPERATOR INTERNATIONAL

2015

2015

2015

SAVE $200 PER COUPLE#

UNFORGETTABLE

Like the Masters, we’ve got France down to a fine art Best of France During your luxury river cruise with award-winning APT, you’ll experience stunning French landscapes that inspired many great artists. Paint yourself into scenes of timeless beauty as you explore the history of the Bordeaux region, discover the charm of Provence and cruise the Seine and Rhône rivers.

Caudebec-en-Caux

Normandy Honfleur Beaches Pays d’Ague

INCLUDED – All onboard meals and beverages†, locally-guided sightseeing, tipping, transfers, Wi-Fi on ship and port charges EXCLUSIVE! APT’s spacious Panoramic Balcony Suites on selected ships

#

INCLUDED – Freedom of Choice Sightseeing

Arles to Bordeaux 22 Days from $14,340* pp twin share Fly Free*

Blaye Pauillac

Dordogne River

Libourne

Saint-Émilion

Garonne River

Bergerac Cadillac Sauternes

7

Belleville

Cognac

Gironde Estuary

BORDEAUX

Somme Battlefields

Rouen 7 RIVER SHIP Les Andelys Giverny FRANCE Vernon Paris

FRANCE RIVER SHIP

Saône River

Lyon

Vienne Tournon Viviers Avignon

Rhône River

7 RIVER SHIP Grignan

CE VEN PRO FRANCE

ARLES

Les Baux-de -Provence

BEST TRAVEL AGENCY

*Conditions apply. Prices are per person (pp), AUD, twin share and include port charges. Prices are inclusive of savings and Early Payment Discount where applicable. Prices are correct as at 20 May 2016, but may fluctuate due to changes in availability, surcharges, fees, taxes or exchange rates. Prices based on: EUFC22: 13 April 2017 (Cat. E). Offers are available until 31 July 2016 unless sold out prior. Limited suites/cabins/staterooms on set departures are available and are subject to availability. A first non-refundable deposit of $1,000 per person is due within 7 days of booking. A second non-refundable deposit of $2,000 per person is due by 31 October 2016. Final payment due 100 days prior to departure. EARLY PAYMENT DISCOUNT: On holidays of 15 days or more, you will save $400 per person.

A non-refundable deposit of $1,000 per person is due within 7 days of booking. A second non-refundable deposit of $2,000 per person is due by 31 October 2016. Tour must be paid in full 10 months prior to departure date. This offer is combinable with applicable airfare offer, Solo Traveller Offer and Travelling with Friends discount. AIRFARE OFFERS: All offers are subject to availability of airline and booking class. Once class is sold out surcharges apply. Flights must be booked by APT. All airfare offers are in economy class with Singapore Airlines (W class) depending on routing (or another airline of APT’s choosing). Airfare offers are valid ex. MEL/SYD/BNE/PER/ADL. FLY FREE: Offers include return economy class to Europe. APT will pay air taxes of up to $1,000 per person. Surcharges will apply if air taxes exceed this amount only. #RACT MEMBER BONUS: Save an additional $200 per couple ($100 pp) on new bookings only for the advertised package of EUFC22 only. Book by 31 July 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. ^Selected itineraries only. #Selected ships only. †Complimentary beverages exclude French Champagne, premium spirits and selected wines. 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. 4136

TRAVEL by RACT

An unrivalled way to discover Europe

F

rom vast estuaries and mighty rivers to superbly-engineered canals and streams that wind through tranquil valleys, APT has left no course uncharted in creating their outstanding range of unforgettable river cruises.

Fine dining, incredible sightseeing, the highest levels of personal attention, stunning accommodation – APT has considered and included every last detail. Even if you have visited Europe before, nothing quite compares to the new experiences and fresh perspectives awaiting you on a river cruise with APT. In keeping with APT’s dedication to providing guests freedom, flexibility and choice, each year our passionate team works tirelessly to enhance existing itineraries and create fresh, innovative journeys. And 2017 is no exception. Along with our ever-popular Magnificent Europe and Rhine, Rhone & Moselle cruise series, 2017 will see the continuation of our Douro River cruises as well as France’s stunning Bordeaux wine region.

New for 2017, APT’s Small Group Discoveries allow you to encounter the privilege of unique and authentic experiences as you venture away from the regular tourist trail to discover a different side of Europe, with no more than 19 other travellers. Unrushed and in-depth, you’ll explore each destination through an incredible array of engaging experiences. What’s more, after-hours or behind-the-scenes access is offered in select locations.

With APT you’ll always know where you stand with your holiday budget. From port charges to airport transfers, excursions to entertainment, meals to gratuities and much more – relax, it’s all included.

Our APT Collection holidays offer an unrivalled way to discover Europe. Designed specifically for Australians and New Zealanders, you’ll enjoy the dedicated services of an APT Cruise/Tour Director, all sightseeing experiences, complimentary onboard beverages for

the duration of your cruise, and many more inclusions. Guests in selected suite categories will also enjoy exclusive benefits such as butler service, room service and complimentary laundry service.

From the moment you step aboard, you’ll see why APT is the first choice with discerning travellers. Whether you’re wrapped in the comfort of your suite or soaking in the scenes atop the Sun Deck, our award-winning Aria and Concerto vessels make your journey an unforgettable one. From world-class dining experiences to elegant public areas; intuitive service to inspiring entertainment; the experience aboard our river ships is among the finest in Europe.

From degustation-style dining to authentic Italian fare and casual snacks, APT’s European river ships present up to seven dining experiences – a number unequalled in the industry. Each is included as part of our all-inclusive onboard lifestyle, so you can relax knowing you won’t have to take care of the bill.

With an all-inclusive range of sightseeing experiences, APT offers you the most immersive exploration of Europe. Our exclusive Freedom of ChoiceTM Sightseeing experiences on our Royal Collection cruises allow you to personalise your holiday.

Crafted especially for APT guests, our Signature Invitations represent once-in-a-lifetime moments that words and pictures simply can’t describe. Presenting unique opportunities or granting you exclusive access to Europe’s most enchanting attractions, these included experiences allow you to discover each destination in greater depth than you could have ever imagined.

Given the expertise, insight and experience we’ve gained over more than 20 years on Europe’s waterways, there’s no better company to take travellers on a dream European cruise than APT. And given the abundance of choice and the amazing value available now – for a limited time – there’s never been a better time to book.

Talk to the travel experts at your local RACT Travel branch – call us on 1300 368 111 JUNE / JULY 2016

Journeys

57

TRAVEL by RACT

The essence of South America

A

rguably now the world’s most sought-after travel destination, South America will attract any kind of traveller – singles, couples, families or retirees. Whether you’re interested in history and culture, intriguing cities, exotic rainforests, sizzling beaches or snow-capped mountains, South America is beautifully diverse.

In Peru, Lima gives you stunning architecture, friendly locals and a picturesque coastline. Fascinating Cusco was once the capital of the famous Inca Empire. Machu Picchu is a South American icon – tucked away at the top of towering mountains and surrounded by lush forest, this famous archaeological site is almost surreal. Puno,

on the shore of Lake Titicaca, is located 3800m above sea level – a tour here is a must-do. La Paz, Bolivia, is a bustling metropolis and is the world’s highest capital city, even though it’s nestled at the base of a canyon beneath snow-capped peaks. Santiago, the capital of Chile, is full of entertainment and cultural opportunities – here, it’s possible to ski in the nearby Andes and stroll on the beach, all on the same day.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, boasts a lively vibe coupled with a deep sense of heritage and culture. Iguazu Falls in Argentina will take your breath away – while Buenos Aires in Argentina is home to tango dancing, the world’s best steak, passionate soccer fans and classic architecture.

If you love nature and wildlife, a visit to the world-famous Galapagos Islands or the Amazon basin can be a memorable part of the pre-tour extension trip.

The 22-day Essence of South America escorted tour starts from $9625* per-person, twin-share including international flights ex Sydney, Melbourne or Brisbane and internal flights in South America. Accommodation is based on tourist superior-class hotels.

Departure dates are 14 August 2016, 24 September 2016 and 9 October 2016.

South America Tourism Office has been delivering unique travel experiences to Latin America and Antarctica for the past 15 years. They specialise in designing creative itineraries, using a mixture of quality local and internationally-operated hotels and knowledgeable bilingual guides.

For more information please contact your local RACT Travel office or call 1300 368 111 EX EXHOBART HOBART&&LAUNCESTON LAUNCESTON PER PERPERSON, PERSON,TWIN TWINSHARE SHAREFROM FROM

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This amazing escorted tour takes you through the‘must most unforgettable places of at ataaleisurely leisurely pace. pace.

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*Conditions *Conditionsapply. apply.Price Pricevalid validfor fortravel travelexexHBA/LST HBA/LST and andincludes includesprepaid prepaidtwin taxes taxesofof$140. $140.

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2015.Availability Availabilityisislimited. limited.Amounts Amountspayable payabletotothird thirdparties partiesnot notincluded. included.Offers Offerscan canbe bewithdrawn withdrawnatatany anytime timewithout withoutnotice. notice.RACT RACT Travel TravelPty PtyLtd LtdATAS ATASNo. No.A11470 A11470ABN ABN45 45144 144538 538803.

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For Forfurther furtherinformation informationplease pleasecall call1300 1300368 368111 111ororcontact contactyour yournearest nearestbranch branch Rosny 6212 62126777 6777 Burnie Burnie 6434 64342955 2955 Ulverstone Ulverstone 6425 64258050 8050 Rosny www.ract.com.au/travel Devonport Devonport 6421 64211977 1977 Hobart Hobart--Murray MurrayStSt 6232 62326455 6455 www.ract.com.au/travel Kingston 6242 62423211 3211 Launceston Launceston 6335 63355655 5655 Kingston

*Conditions apply. Prices are correct as at 15April 2016 and are per person, twin share and includes the Member Bonus discount. Valid for sale until 31August16. Valid for travel up to 09Oct16. Booking form and $500pp deposit required at time of booking. Enquire for single or triple traveller cost. Price excludes taxes & surcharges. Air taxes are approx. $1180pp. Departure dates from SYD/BNE/MEL 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. RACT Travel Pty Ltd ABN 45 144 538 803 ATAS A11470.

58

Journeys

JUNE / JULY 2016

TRAVEL by RACT

Explore a New Zealand food & wine trail N

ew Zealand is famous for its untouched landscapes, breathtaking scenery and rich Maori culture – but did you know that it is also acclaimed for fantastic fresh produce and some of the world’s best wines?

New Zealand’s diverse climate and rich soil contribute to the production of outstanding wines that are the envy of European vineyards. A long and slow ripening period helps to retain the vibrant varietal flavours that make New Zealand wines so distinctive. Hawke’s Bay, Martinborough, Marlborough and Central Otago are signature New Zealand wine regions and you can explore your pick of over 120 vineyards by driving the Classic New Zealand Wine Trail.

New Zealand chefs have developed a distinct Pacific Rim cuisine in recent years and you can expect to indulge in plenty of seafood (green-lipped mussels, crayfish, Bluff oysters and fresh fish), award-winning cheeses and of course, the country’s famous lamb.

For urban eats, try a waterfront restaurant at Auckland’s Viaduct or a bohemian ethnic café in Wellington’s Cuba Quarter.

And for a truly authentic experience, head to Rotorua for the smoky flavour of Maori food from a traditional hangi earth oven.

During the summer months, experiencing one of the many wine and food festivals will be a highlight of your visit.

Indulging in local food and wine is a must-do for many travellers, so give your tastebuds a treat and talk to your RACT Travel consultant today about the fantastic self-drive packages available for you to make the most of your stay in New Zealand. Try our 10 Day Self-Drive Food and Wine Experience package starting from $1674* per person twin share.

Your friendly consultant can provide you with destination suggestions and popular sightseeing ideas for your trip.

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

10 Day Food & Wine Experience Self-Drive

MEMBER’S BONUS

$50^ Fuel Voucher & FREE Vehicle Upgrade

$1674 from

*

per person, twin share

• • • • • • • • • •

GET RIGHT

ADVENTURES a member of

9 nights in your chosen category 9 Days rental Car Interislander Ferry Crossing Entry into Auckland Sky Tower Tamaki Cultural Hangi performance Rotorua Skyline Gondola & Buffet Lunch Entry into Rainbow Springs Agrodome Farm Show Twilight Odyssey Tour Marlborough Icons Tours

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 04 April 2016. Prices are based on a Europcar Toyota Corolla automatic or similar hire and based on per person, twin share. Valid for new bookings made by 30 Sep 2016. All normal Europcar 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. 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.

JUNE / JULY 2016

Journeys

59

TRAVEL by RACT Despite its name, the wet season doesn’t promise constant downpours. You can expect clear mornings with clouds typically building in the late afternoon for a short summer shower. Yes, there is a tendency for increased humidity but temperatures range between 25°C and 35°C – and you can take your lead from the locals who know the best times of the day to get out and about.

While the Nitmiluk Gorge cruise excursion is always a favourite inclusion with The Ghan’s guests, it’s not until you’ve cruised the Gorge at the height of summer that you’ve fully experienced this ancient destination. You can expect to see the waterfalls at their free-flowing finest and a host of native wildlife making their homes among the dense tropical flora.

For travellers embarking on an epic Nullarbor crossing, extreme temperatures can be part of the experience. But when travelling in air-conditioned comfort aboard the Indian Pacific, the midday heat makes little difference as you take in the vastness of the continent with a cool drink in hand.

This month, you can save when you book your low-season fare aboard The Ghan or Indian Pacific.

The deal 'Save up to $1073* per couple on your next Ghan… Or save up to $1211* per couple by choosing a Gold Service' is based on the discount between standard Low Season Advance Purchase and the Companion Offer Advance Purchase Fares.

The savings for standard Low Season Everyday Fares vs Companion Offer Everyday Fare is 'Save up to $1343* per couple on your next Ghan… Or save up to $1517* per couple by choosing a Gold Service'.

On track for summer

F

orget summertime in the city and choose the warmer months to take your next trip aboard The Ghan and Indian Pacific to enjoy a whole new perspective on Australia’s beauty.

The Northern Territory wet season, from November through to April, is a stunning time to explore the Top End. Waterways are full to the brim, the landscape is lush with fresh green growth and the evening skies can present a natural light spectacular as the storms roll in at dusk.

For details, contact your local RACT Travel branch or call 1300 368 111

DAR W I N TO AD E LAI D E

$

SHARE A JOURNEY BEYOND

60%* SAVING

THERE’S NEVER BEEN A BETTER TIME TO SAVE WITH 60% OFF

3135

* PER COUPLE GOLD SERVICE TWIN SHARE

INCLUDES: • 2 NIGHTS IN GOLD SERVICE TWIN CABIN FROM DARWIN TO ADELAIDE • HALF DAY OFF TRAIN EXCURSION IN KATHERINE • HALF DAY OFF TRAIN EXCURSION IN ALICE SPRINGS • OUTBACK EXPERIENCE IN MANGURI • ALL MEALS AND BEVERAGES ON BOARD

YOUR SECOND FARE ON THE GHAN OR INDIAN PACIFIC

SAVE UP TO $1343 PER COUPLE MEMBER’S BONUS

SYD N EY TO P E RTH

FREE Travellers Pack#

$

SAVE UP TO

1517

$ GET RIGHT

WHEN YOU BUY TWO ADULT EVERYDAY LOW SEASON FARES

BENEFITS

a member of

*

Darwin

3541

* PER COUPLE GOLD SERVICE TWIN SHARE

INCLUDES: • 3 NIGHTS IN GOLD SERVICE TWIN CABIN FROM SYDNEY TO PERTH • MORNING OFF TRAIN EXCURSION IN BROKEN HILL • HALF DAY OFF TRAIN EXCURSION IN BAROSSA OR ADELAIDE • OUTBACK EXPERIENCE IN RAWLINNA • ALL MEALS AND BEVERAGES ON BOARD

SAVE UP TO $1517 PER COUPLE

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

*Conditions apply. Save up to $1517 based on Buy One Low Season Everyday Adult fare and the second passenger saves 60% off the Low Season Everyday Adult fare. For new bookings prior to 30Jun16 for travel 01Dec16 to 31Mar17. Offer subject to availability at time of booking and may not be available on the first date requested. Blackout dates apply.

Full payment for the rail component is required within 14 days of booking. This fare is non-transferable and non-refundable. No amendments allowed. Offer does not apply to the following journeys: Adelaide to Darwin, Adelaide to Alice Springs and v.v. and Adelaide to Sydney and v.v. 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. Not available with any other offer. Timetables and Off Train Excursions are subject to change without notice. #Member bonus valid for the first 10 bookings paid in full by 30Jun16. For general terms and conditions of carriage please visit www.greatsouthernrail.com.au. RACT Travel Pty Ltd ABN 45 144 538 803 ATAS A11470.

04789CDGM 0416

60

Journeys

JUNE / JULY 2016

TRAVEL by RACT In 2017, Botanica has once again secured well-known international gardener and TV expert Monty Don as a special guest aboard two of their cruises – the 11-Day British Isles Castles, Gardens, History & Birdlife Cruise and the 8-Day Bordeaux Gardens, Chateaux, History & Wine Cruise. Monty Don will deliver a special lecture to guests, staying on-board afterwards to host a luncheon where he will be on-hand to answer questions relating to his gardening experience.

Exploring the gardens of the world

The British Isles cruise features remote castles, wind-swept islands, luxury estates and Zodiac landings into private gardens and quaint villages. As well as having the chance to meet Monty Don, guests will also visit some of the most outstanding gardens in the British Isles, including the exotic botanical gardens of Inverewe in the Highlands, stunning gardens such as Bodnant in Wales and Tresco on the Isle of Scilly, Duart Castle on the Isle of Mull and Mount Stewart in Northern Ireland.

Also joining Botanica’s expert team of guides in 2016/17 is well-respected gardening historian Dr Toby Musgrave, who appears on Monty Don’s Lost Garden series. Dr Musgrave will be on-hand to give his insights on a number of tours, including the Italian & French Gardens and History in Spring tour, as well as the exclusive small ship cruises through the Mediterranean and also Japan and Korea.

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.

UK

London 4

Westcan Sussex Travellers 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.

Conditions apply, ask your RACT Travel Consultant.

Paris For more details, contact RACT Travel on 1300 368 or Richeux visit your local branch Jardin111 de Bois

8 Day Bordeaux Gardens, Chateaux, History & Wine Cruise Departing 11 May 2017

Gardens – History – Art – Music – Gourmet

SAVE $200PER COUPLE

PLUS A BONUS NIGHT IN BORDEAUX#

Cruise Coach 7 No. of nights stay River Ship Cognac

BTBD8

Boutique Garden Cruises & Tours Worldwide botanically themed boutique cruises and small group discoveries for the discerning traveller

Blaye Bourg Libourne Bordeaux Saint-Émilion Garonne River Bergerac Sauternes Cadillac France Pauillac

Gironde Estuary

Special Guest Speaker – Monty Don. Garden author, journalist and presenter, Monty Don will join your cruise where he will conduct an informative lecture Enjoy strolling gardens of beautiful chateaux with your Botanical Guide Explore Les Jardins de L’Imaginaire with 13 display gardens Sample French tasting experiences with your Gourmet Guide Wine, beer and soft drinks included with lunch and dinner on board 20 delicious meals This unique cruise is not to be missed and is filling fast From $6,995* per person, twin share. From $9,995* solo traveller.

*Conditions apply. Prices are correct as at 7 April 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 BTBD8 only. Book by 31 July 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.

JUNE / JULY 2016

Journeys

61

EXCITING holiday

destinations

FIJI WANDERER CRUISE From

$2,879

twin share

(9 night cruise/stay package only) Itinerary: Port Denarau > Yasawa Islands > Sawa I Lau Island > Yasawa Islands > Port Denarau Includes: • 1 night pre-cruise accommodation in Port Denarau at the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa in a superior oceanside room • 4 night cruise onboard mv FIJI PRINCESS (Blue Lagoon Cruises) from Port Denarau return in a Hibiscus Deck stateroom • Main meals including morning & afternoon tea , barista coffee, tea, filtered water and juice • Traditional Fijian entertainment •Scheduled cruise excursions and activities including snorkelling equipment and entrance fees • 4 nights post-cruise accommodation in Port Denarau at the Sofitel Fiji Resort & Spa in a superior oceanside room • Return airport transfers • Port charges & government fees Cruise Departs: 07 November 2016

a member of

HAWAIIAN ISLANDS

* per person, From

$4,519*

per person, twin share

(11 night cruise/stay package only) Itinerary: Honolulu > Lahaina (Maui) > Papeete > Bora Bora > Auckland > Bay of Islands > Sydney Includes: • 1 night pre-cruise accommodation in Honolulu staying at the Sheraton Princess Kauilani in a city view room • 7 night cruise onboard PRIDE OF AMERICA from Honolulu return in an inside stateroom (category IE) • Main meals~, entertainment and gratuities onboard • 3 nights post-cruise accommodation in Honolulu staying at the Sheraton Princess Kauilani in a city view room • Transfers throughout Honolulu • Port charges and government fees Cruise Departs: 10 December 2016

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

MATILDA THE MUSICAL From

$245

* per person, twin share

Includes: • 1 nights accommodation at Rydges Melbourne in a Deluxe Room • A Reserve ticket to Matilda The Musical at the Princess Theatre, Melbourne+ Upgrade: Premium Reserve Ticket+ from just $32* per person Travel: 15 Jun – 29 Sep 16, 2 – 27 Oct 16

MELBOURNE CUP CARNIVAL From

$519*

per person, twin share

Includes: • 2 nights accommodation at Travelodge Southbank in a Guest Room •1 day Precinct ticket to the Emirates Melbourne Cup Day on 1 Nov 16 at Flemington Racecourse∞ Upgrade ticket options#: • Reserved Lawn Stand seat from $27* per person • Saintly Place (formerly The Undercroft) from $37* per person • Precinct with reserved Lawn Stand seat from $163* per person Travel: 31 Oct – 2 Nov 16

3 FREE NIGHTS

BEAUTIFUL THAILAND From

$655

* per person, twin share

Includes: • 7 nights accommodation at Amari Phuket in a Superior Ocean Facing Room • Return airport transfers • Full breakfast daily • 3 FREE nights • FREE WiFi • FREE Phuket Introduction tour^ • FREE Phuket Privileges card with discounts at restaurants, bars, entertainment and shopping^ Travel: 15 Jun – 31 Oct 16

2 FREE NIGHTS

PENANG ESCAPE From

$685*

per person, twin share

Includes: • 7 nights accommodation at PARKROYAL Penang Resort in a Superior Room • Return airport transfers • Full breakfast daily • Eat, Pray, Love Tour including lunch • 2 FREE nights • FREE late check-out until 4pm (subject to availability) • SAVE up to 20% on food, beverages and spa treatmentsŧ Travel: 15 Jun - 5 Jul 16, 1 Sep - 15 Dec 16

FREE FJD100 FOOD, BEVERAGE & SPA CREDIT#

RELAX IN FIJI From

$965*

per person, twin share

FREE MACY’S DISCOUNT VOUCHER

HULA IN HAWAI‘I From

$1,119*

per person, twin share

Includes: • 5 nights accommodation at Hilton Fiji Beach Resort & Spa in a Studio Beachfront • Full breakfast daily • Return airport transfers • SAVE up to 45% on regular room rates • FREE FJD100 food, beverage and spa credit# • FREE premium WiFi • FREE bottled water in rooms • FREE daily turn down service

Includes: • 5 nights accommodation at Holiday Inn Resort Waikiki Beachcomber in an Oceanview Room† • Return airport transfers • FREE WiFi • FREE use of fitness centre • FREE Macy’s discount voucher • FREE shopping and dining discount booklet

Travel: 1 Nov - 23 Dec 16, 3 Jan - 31 Mar 17

Travel: 15 Jun 16 – 20 Dec 16, 10 Jan – 31 Mar 17

Conditions Apply: *All prices correct as at 07Apr16 but may uctuate uctuate if surcharges, surcharges fees, fees taxes or currency change and is subject to availability. availability All savings savi and bonus nus 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. apply For any addition 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 specic offer and terms & conditions, please contact your nearest RACT Travel ofce. ^Fiji Wanderer Cruise: Offer ends 31Jul16, unless sold out prior.~Hawaiian Islands: Main meals are included in selected restaurants, specialty restaurants may incur a surcharge. Offer ends 31Jul16, unless sold out prior. + Matilda the Musical: Event ticket is based on Wed, Thu Evening show. Surcharges may apply for other dates and times. Event ticket must be purchased with accommodation and cannot be purchased separately. Event ticket is non-refundable and non-transferrable. Payment for event ticket is required at time of booking. Ticket upgrade cost is in addition to the package price. Offer ends 08Nov16 unless sold out prior. Emirates Melbourne Cup Day: ∞Event ticket must be purchased with accommodation and cannot be purchased separately. Event ticket is non-refundable and non-transferrable. Payment for event tickets are required at time of booking. #Ticket upgrade cost is in addition to the package price. Offer ends 30Sep16 unless sold out prior. Beautiful Thailand: ^Only available when booking return seat in coach transfers; max one tour per person and one privilege card per booking. Offer ends 31Jul16 unless sold out prior.Penang Escape: ŧValid only on a-la-carte spa treatments.

Excludes in-room dining, happy hour and special promotions. Offer ends 31Jul16 unless sold out prior. Relax in Fiji: #Credit is non-transferable, non-refundable and any unused credit cannot be redeemed for cash. Offer ends 31Jul16 unless sold out prior. Hula in Hawai‘i: †Pricing for accommodation in this package is based on check in 09Sep16. These prices should be used as a guide only. Offer ends 31Jul16 unless sold out prior. 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.

MEMBER’S BONUS SAVE $125 + REcEiVE A FREE NZ TRAVEl GUidE**

19 Day Rail, Cruise & Coach

11 Day North Is Garden Tour

MULTIPLE GUARANTEED DEPARTURES

SPECIAL DEPARTURE 28 October 2016

E

A

EX HOBART & LAUNCESTON PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE FROM

EX HOBART & LAUNCESTON PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE FROM

xperience the romance of 4 rail journeys, the majesty of 5 scenic cruises including an overnight on Milford Sound and the luxury of coach travel. Visit all the ‘best of’ attractions of the North and South Islands and enjoy 6 two night stays.

6269

$

*

INCLUDES

RETURN AIRFARES

ccompanied by a Horticulturalist and featuring the best botanic and private gardens in the North Island including the Taranaki Garden Festival. Enjoy highlights such as Waiheke Island, cultural Rotorua and ‘the coolest little capital’ Wellington.

4439

$

*

INCLUDES

RETURN AIRFARES

ALL INCLUSIVE Fully escorted tours include airfares, taxes, superior accommodation (4 star), most meals, sightseeing & attractions. *Conditions apply. Prices valid for travel ex HBA/LST and include 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 departures. No other special offers or discounts apply. Special offers apply to new bookings only until 31 July 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.

7

GARDEN VISITS

TRAVEL by RACT

NZ adventure by sea and land N

ew Zealand coach holiday specialist Grand Pacific Tours and Celebrity Cruises have come together to give travellers an opportunity to discover the real New Zealand, by sea and by land, travelling by luxury coach tour and aboard the Celebrity Solstice.

The fully-escorted tours are available in 19-day and 23-day itineraries, with a relaxing 12-night cruise across the Tasman Sea plus a luxury coach tour, visiting key regions that can only be reached by road.

The cruise on the luxurious Celebrity Solstice is a complete holiday in itself. Guests can enjoy casual outdoor activities on a freshly -manicured lawn on the highest deck of the ship, witness the

unique on-board hot-glass show with artisans showing off their glassblowing skills or be pampered in the spa.

Celebrity Solstice boasts cafes, bars, lounges and a cavernous wine-cellar. At the opulent two-storey Main Restaurant, you can enjoy views of the sea while you dine. The plush Ocean View Staterooms with private balconies are spacious, light and beautifully-appointed.

On the fully-guided coach tour, guests will find that New Zealand is a world in miniature, with each locality providing its own treasure trove of unique experiences. While travelling the roads in the safe hands of the Coach Captain, passengers enjoy informative commentary including facts, myths and legends that only a true local can know and convey so entertainingly.

On the 19-day New Zealand Southern Explorer and Cruise Experience, guests witness the best of the South Island of New Zealand on a six-night luxury coach tour, visiting the key locations of Christchurch, the West Coast and Queenstown. There’s also the opportunity to explore Auckland before boarding Celebrity Solstice for the 12-night cruise from Auckland to Sydney.

The popular 23-day Best of New Zealand by Cruise and Luxury Coach has guests enjoying 12 nights on board the Celebrity Solstice plus 10 nights exploring the North and South Islands of New Zealand by luxury coach. This tour is also available in reverse, giving guests the opportunity to coach first and then cruise. All tour options include airfares, taxes, cruise, accommodation, most meals, sightseeing and attractions.

For details and bookings, call us on 1300 368 111 or visit your local RACT Travel branch EX HOBART & LAUNCESTON PER PERSON, TWIN SHARE FROM

6949

$

*

MEMBER’S BONUS REcEivE UP TO

$1720

>> CRUISE & COACH TWICE THE FUN!

BONUS cRUiSE vALUE PER cOUPLE**

23 Day Best of New Zealand by Cruise & Luxury Coach DEPARTURES 27 Nov 2016. 12 & 14^ Jan, 5 & 7^ Feb 2017 INCLUDES One way airfare and taxes • Tour Guide 12 NIGHT CRUISE Deluxe Balcony Cabin (Vista deck 8) onboard Celebrity Solstice • World class dining (Breakfast, lunch & dinner daily) • Awesome entertainment and activities • Gratuities onboard 10 NIGHT COACH TOUR Modern Coach travel with a Professional Coach Captain • 10 nights Superior hotel accom • 19 meals • All sightseeing & attractions. *Conditions apply. Prices valid for travel ex HBA/LST based on one way Trans Tasman airfare to/from CHC and includes pre paid taxes of $50. Price shown is for a cash payment - credit card fees of up to 2% will apply. Prices and taxes are subject to change. ^These departures operate in reverse. **Cruise Bonus: US $400 onboard credit (GAP Points) per couple. If a Solo cabin is booked receive up to US$250 onboard credit. Plus choose between the Classic Beverage package OR Unlimited Internet, travellers in the same Stateroom must select the same option. No other special offers or discounts apply. Offer can be withdrawn at any time. For new bookings only until 31 July 2016. RACT Travel Pty Ltd ATAS No. A11470 ABN 45 144 538 803.

JUNE / JULY 2016

Journeys

65

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403-COM04.01 ©2016 The Bradford Exchange Ltd. A.B.N. 13 003 159 617

Promotion Code:

83979 Title

Offer closes:

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Apply by telephone on:

Mr Mrs Ms Miss Other _______________

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Please allow up to 10 business days for delivery. All sales subject to product availability and reservation acceptance. Credit criteria may apply. Our privacy policy is available online at www.bradford.com.au. From time to time, we may allow carefully screened companies to contact you. If you would prefer not to receive such offers, please tick this box. ❑

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