Aussie Guide and Map #81 Autumn 2016

AUSSIE

GUIDE & MAP SYDNEY, TASMANIA, DARWIN, CAIRNS

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AUSSIE

WHERE TO BEGIN?

GUIDE & MAP Getting Around

11 17 31 Travel Maps Australia Pty Ltd, have been producing tourist maps and guides of Sydney since 1993.

This Guide is distributed FREE in over 500 hotels, best value accommodations, transport hubs and international colleges in Sydney.

Other titles include: THE WORD Sydney Map THE WORD Desktop Maps

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Where to Begin?

5 Finding Your Way 6 Public Transport 8 Buses, Ferries & Trains 9 What’s On 11 Western Sydney 15 Manly 18 Kings Cross 19 Bondi Beach 20 Blue Mountains 22 Canberra, ACT 23 Byron Bay 26 Northern Territory 36 Western Australia 38 South Australia 40 Victoria 42 Features Sydney Harbour 12 Adventure – Skydiving 16 Queensland – from Gold Coast to Cape Trib 27 Devils & Tigers in Tasmania 43

Edition: Spring 2016 Published by Travel Maps Australia PO Box 7023, Warringah Mall, NSW 2100 Tel: 02 8338 0842 Fax: 02 8338 0843 contact@thewordaustralia.com.au Publisher/Editor: Mike Barrow Managing Editor: Chris Harrison Design/Production: KYSO.com.au Contributor: Kayla Bushey Administration: Narelle van Leeuwen Customer Service: Martin Sisolak Advertising Enquiries sales@thewordaustralia.com.au Tel: 02 8338 0842 Views expressed in this guide are not necessarily those of the publisher.

Images: Supplied by Tourism Australia, Destination NSW.

4 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

younger than the Rocks, is an entertainment and retail quarter.

Here you will find Cockle Bay Wharf, Sydney Aquarium, Madame Tussauds, WILDlife Sydney Zoo and Sydney Tower EYE + Skywalk. Harbourside has an excellent range of cafes, bars, restaurants and retail shops.

South of Darling Harbour is Chinatown, but just before that is the excellent ‘Ming Dynasty styled’ Chinese Garden of Friendship. Chinatown has excellent dining and shopping options including Paddy’s Markets – open Wednesday to Sunday.

For information regarding public transport in Sydney, go to p8 – 9 of this guide.

Most must-do attractions are located in the city centre – or around the world-class harbour.

Australia’s two most identified icons are at Circular Quay; Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge.

From the Quay you can also catch a ferry to Manly, Taronga Zoo or Luna Park. Between the Quay and the Bridge is the Rocks Precinct, Sydney’s oldest European settlement.

The Rocks Discovery Museum is a good place to learn more about this area. Nearby Sydney Harbour YHA offers an excellent archaeological dig and the Australian Hotel some excellent local refreshments.

Darling Harbour, much

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FINDING YOUR WAY from the city centre. Famous for its surf school and surf gear shopping. Come to Manly for a great day out. Also over here is Kirribilli and Kirribilli House – the official Sydney residence of the Australian Prime Minister.

way, so stop by and see a few.

Sydney’s northern beaches are truly world-class, try Dee Why, Mona Vale or Avalon. Or, like so many of Sydney’s own, move there!

Sydney’s South

alike. While further south, the Chinese Garden of Friendship leads you into the Chinese district or “Chinatown” with another of Sydney’s icons at its heart – Paddy’s Markets; a great place to shop.

Sydney City North The Rocks and Circular Quay are the ‘colonial historic’ heart of Sydney and are great places to start exploring. Drop into the Customs House to kick off your day. You’ll also find the international icons of Sydney; the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge.

Sydney’s Eastern Suburbs Sydney is synonymous with Bondi Beach and that’s hardly surprising as you’ll find this famous beach is just a 30 minute bus ride from the city centre.

Alternatively you can catch a train to Bondi Junction, but remember you are still quite a walk to the beach. Kings Cross, Surry Hills, and Darlinghurst are all great stopping off points and are also some of the best places for going out.

Sydney’s Inner West The Inner West’s most famous suburbs are Glebe and Balmain, known for their bohemian lifestyle, markets, and arts. But two more are fast catching up; Leichhardt with its strong Italian feel and Rozelle with its cool local vibe and excellent indigenous art gallery.

Sydney’s Northern Beaches Palm Beach (is Summer Bay of Home & Away fame) is at the very top, but you will pass more than a dozen others on the

Historically Redfern and Eveleigh have a troubled reputation but times are changing and arts, culture, and local festivities are bringing this bygone area to life. There is also some excellent outlet (discount) shopping further south at Green Square and Alexandria.

Sydney’s Southern Beaches From renowned surfing and surfer beach Maroubra to the most southerly beach in Sydney accessible by train, Cronulla, Sydney’s southern beaches are where you are more likely to meet locals than tourists.

Flemington and Haymarket

HAYMARKET

Sydney City South Darling Harbour is now an entertainment and event mecca for Sydneysider’s and tourists 6 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

FRESH VEG 9-13 Hay St, Haymarket NSW

Sydney’s Northside Easily accessible by ferry or bus, Manly Beach is just 30 mins

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Sydney Ferries Network TRANSPORT MAPS Sydney Ferries Network

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Opal is a smartcard you keep and reuse.

Add value onto your Questions and feedback Phone 131 500 card TTY to1800 pay as you go for travel 637 500 on trains, buses, ferries and rail anywhere within the Questions light and feedback Phone 131 500 Opal network.

TTY 1800 637 500 Adult and Child/Youth NORTH Opal cards are available from 2,000 Opal retailers, including Transport Shops at Wynyard, Circular Quay, Town Hall and Railway Square (near Central).

To find your nearest one, visit retailers.opal.com.au or look for the Opal symbol.

Adult, Child/Youth, Senior/ Pensioner and Concession Opal cards can all be ordered via opal.com.au or 13 67 25 (13 OPAL), but allow 5–7 working days for delivery to an Australian address.

1310FMS-P-COR-A4L

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PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Questions and feedback Phone 131 500 TTY 1800 637 500

1310FMS-P-COR-A4L

Trains and NSW TrainLink Sydney Trains operate throughout the Sydney CBD and metropolitan Sydney. Intercity, regional and interstate train services are provided by NSW TrainLink (nswtrainlink.info).

To find out more about public transport in Sydney, or to plan your trip visit transportnsw.info or call 131 500.

Ferries

Extract of maps only. View full maps at transportnsw.info Maps reproduced with approval of Transport for NSW. 8 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

Most operate from Circular Quay and run throughout Sydney Harbour, including Darling Harbour, Manly and Taronga Zoo, Eastern Suburbs, and up the Parramatta River.

@wordaustralia 9

WHAT’S ON

Daily & Year Round Royal Botanic Gardens

Explore the world of plant diversity with a FREE guided walking tour under a knowledgeable guide at this beautiful centre. Tours run daily at 10.30 except on Christmas Day and Boxing Day. See more at rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au

includes everything from samesex salsa classes and self defence workshops to fun runs and saucy burlesque events. Instead of standing hours, book a hostel and snap up a ticket to one of the VIP viewing positions with outdoor clubs with cocktail bars and DJs. See more at mardigras.org.au

27 Feb – 6 March Australian Open of Surfing

Want to be part of Australia’s biggest surfing and lifestyle events? Clear your calendar for the Australian Open of Surfing. Surfing is embedded in the culture at Manly with ASP-sanctioned surf contests for men and women. Watch the best hang ten, shop for great urban beach gear, enjoy beach volleyball and experience the surf life of Australia.

See more at australianopenofsurfing.com

14 February – 20 March March into Merivale

Join this annual five-week food and wine festival, it’s one of the most anticipated on Sydney’s culinary calendar. With over 60+ restaurants and bars involved you are sure to find your decadent guilty pleasure. From nights dripping with chocolate, to beachside carnivals, and shameless dance parties.

See more at whatson.merivale.com.au

February - March Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras and the Parade is a combination of camp fun that 10 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

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Sugarloaf Bay

SYDNEY HARBOUR

L90. To the Northern beaches, Palm Beach

Chatswood

UTH

30 min

Ferries

North Harbour

Artarmon

Opal Card Pricing 440

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Middle Harbour

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WOODLAN

Single: $7.60 O $7.00

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Sailors Bay

Shelley Beach

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MANLY Manly

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“The most beautiful natural harbour in the world”

Trains

Manly Scenic Walkway

169,178,179,180,185 To the Spit Bridge for the Spit to Manly Walk.

Bus Route; Bus Number

North Sydney Harbour Aquatic Reserve

Long Bay

MyBus3 single: $4.70 O $4.50

1 km

Fairfax Walk Hunters Bay

To Spit: 25 min Palm Beach: 1hr 45min

St Leonards

Balmoral

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Woodford Bay

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Crater Cove

Wollstonecraft

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Berrys Bay

Birchgrove

North Sydney

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Goat Island

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Single: $6.20 O $5.74

Harbour Bridge

Athol Bay Nielsen Park

12 min

Fort Denison

Mort Bay Sydney Opera House

Balmain Balmain East

Hermitage Foreshore Track Sydney Harbour

Garden Island

lmain West Circular Quay

Shark Island

SYDNEY Martin Place CBD

Royal Botanic Gardens

324 325

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Rose Bay

Double Bay Double Bay

Kings Cross

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380

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Pyrmont Bay

Rozelle Bay

Hermitage Foreshore Track

Clark Island

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Darling Harbour (King St Wharf)

Watsons Bay Watsons Bay Wharf

Taylors Bay

Kirribilli

Milsons McMahons Point Point

Johnstons Bay

South Head Heritage Trail

Clifton Gardens

Taronga Zoo

Neutral Bay

Snails Bay

SOUTH HEAD

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Greenwich

Parramatta River

Neutral Bay

North Sydney

Balls Head Bay

Camp Cove

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Waverton

Woolwich

22 min

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Town Hall

324 325

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Darling Harbour (Aquarium)

Edgecliff

Central

Redfern

12 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

Centennial Parklands

333 380 440

Bondi Junction

333 380 381 382

MyBus3 single: $4.70 O $3.50

BONDI

40 min

@wordaustralia 13

SYDNEY HARBOUR

BY CHRIS HARRISON This world class harbour immerses visitors in the scenery, culture and personality of Sydney.

It features Aboriginal heritage, lively land and sea environments and journeys into Australia’s convict history. Just outside Sydney Heads lies a coastline full of world famous beaches like Bondi and Manly.

Park. At its centre is Sydney Harbour National Park. Access the central and western parts is best made by boat; regular ferry services operate in Port Jackson from Circular Quay across to Manly and west along the Parramatta River. The northern and southern parts are best accessed by guided tour or car.

WESTERN SYDNEY

About half of Sydney’s four million residents actually live ‘Out West.’ That’s about one in every 11 Australians. Its no wonder the Wanderers (A-League soccer) and the Giants (Australian Rules Football) are based out here.

The wider region includes the cities of Blacktown and Penrith.

Penrith is not only the gateway to the Blue Mountains Heritage Area but also recently taking on the mantle of ‘Adventure Capital of NSW’. It offers offers Jetpack Adventures, Cables Wake Park and a whitewater rafting centre, to name a few adventure activities.

While Blacktown offers the ‘famous’ Featherdale Wildlife Park, home of over 2,000 animals. You can cuddle up to a koala and hand-feed kangaroos, emus, and wallabies.

More info at visitpenrith.com.au featherdale.com.au blacktown.nsw.gov.au

What’s included: Sydney Harbour stretches south to the Royal National Park, north to Barrenjoey Headland, northwest to Kuringai Chase National Park and west to Parramatta

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ADVENTURE SKYDIVING

BY CHRIS HARRISON Looking for the ultimate rush while you are travelling?, now is the perfect time to do those things you normally wouldn’t do back home. Whether it’s skydiving, hot air ballooning, flyboarding or surfing we has done all the research for you.

Skydiving Skydiving is one of those adrenalin activities on many people‚ to-do list. With excellent training and operator safety levels, Australia is the perfect place to finally take the leap.

For most travellers, tandem skydiving is the way to go. A tandem skydive only requires 15 - 20 minutes of practical training before you are deemed ready to take to the sky. A qualified instructor is strapped to your back and all you have to worry about is enjoying the ride!

16 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

Do your own research to find the most suitable package including price, convenience and availability of extras like videos and digital photos.

You also need to think about the kind of view you want to absorb while floating to the ground. The best advice is to go as high as you can. You’ll get a full minute of free-fall from 14,000 feet and experience speeds of around 200 km/ph.

Maximum weight limits apply for skydiving, if you weigh under 95 kilograms and you’ll befine, but if you weigh

over 95 kilograms, fitness and wind conditions need to be considered beforehand and you will also have to pay an additional fee. If you weigh over 110 kilograms, you are unlikely to be eligible to skydive.

Once the big day arrives, wear sneakers and loose comfy clothing as tight clothes are uncomfortable when the harness is tightened. Also, if you wear prescription glasses, ask if special goggles are available you won’t want to miss anything on your float down to land!

Resist the urge to have a big night before your dive.

For safety reasons you are not

allowed to drink alcohol for eight hours before a skydive.

Who to Skydive with?

Sydney Skydivers 02 9791 9155 sydneyskydivers.com.au

@wordaustralia 17

MANLY

KINGS CROSS are plentiful. A great option is to buy some fish and chips and sit on the beach or boardwalk. You can get around Manly by foot or hire a bike for the day. You can also hire a kayak to explore the numerous bays and coves in the area. Be prepared to see penguins in the harbour.

Three standout attractions Elizabeth Bay House A classic example of an 1830’s colonial stately home.

Once dubbed the finest house in the colony. Open to the public.

Two to discover

Sydney’s family-friendly seaside suburb. Take a 30 minute ferry ride from Circular Quay for the most affordable way to see Sydney Harbour.

Manly has an expansive and clean beach, loads of cool shops and plenty of cafes and restaurants.

There are over 100 cafes, restaurants and bars in Manly catering to all tastes. Try the freshest seafood or the juiciest steaks. Alfresco dining options

Shelley Beach Walk to this beautiful cove via Cabbage Tree Bay and snorkel the clear pristine waters.

A great spot for a BBQ and a safe swim. Continue walking the coastal route to reach North Head.

North Head Sanctuary Manly Can be reached on foot, a Lovely bush walk with expansive views over Sydney CBD, across to South Head and out to sea.

Sydney’s red light district and nightclub zone. After dark is when this area really comes alive, with bars, clubs, strip clubs and late night cafes.

During the day, here is what is worth visiting.

Kings X Organic Food Markets Every Saturday from 10am to 4pm next to the fountain. Grab some wholesome food or the best bacon and egg roll in East Sydney.

Wolloomooloo Finger Wharf Redeveloped into a modern wharf with a funky hotel and bar, offices and some quality restaurants.

For more info: harbourtrust.gov.au

Hello Manly

18 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

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BONDI BEACH surfing, body boarding and surfing. Rip currents are a channel of water moving out to sea and can often be identified by looking for: • areas with fewer breaking waves or no waves at all • areas of deeper, darker coloured water • sand, seaweed, or debris being carried back out through the waves.

This can sometimes look like a safe spot to swim, but remember to avoid areas with fewer breaking waves or no waves at all.

When you are swimming in the waves, you may feel yourself being pulled along the beach or away from the shore; this water could be flowing into a rip current so swim back to where the white waves are heading towards shore.

Visit www.surflifesaving. com.au/beach-safety and download Surf Life Saving’s free Beachsafe app to find out where our lifesavers are. Even if you’re in an unfamiliar area, you can now choose the safest beach, not just the closest one. Information is available in 60+ languages!

Australia has many beautiful beaches, but the ocean can be unpredictable. Keep yourself and your friends and family safe by following the FLAGS safety rules: Flags – always swim between the red and yellow flags Look at the safety signs Ask a lifeguard for advice Go swimming with a friend and supervise children Signal by raising one arm if you need help. In an emergency, call Triple Zero.

Not all beaches have flags – if our lifesavers aren’t there to keep you safe, stay out of harm’s way by not swimming alone and by avoiding rip currents.

Rip currents – what you need to know…

Waves push water towards the beach, and are fun for body

Sydney is synonymous with Bondi Beach and that’s hardly surprising as you’ll find this world famous city beach is just 30 minutes from the city centre. Do remember that if you get the train to Bondi Junction you will still need to get a bus to the beach, so just catch a bus from the city and don’t forget your sunscreen.

Bondi Lifeguards If you’ve seen the TV show, you will find the tanned Aussie boys in their lifesaving tower, just below the Bondi Pavilion.

The Pavilion offers tourist information and an art gallery.

Four things to do North Bondi RSL Travellers come from half way around the world to enjoy the five star views and The Bistro $25 lunch deal. northbondirsl.com.au Aboriginal Rock Carvings On the sea side of Bondi Golf Course, stands a substantial panel of Aboriginal rock carvings depicting various fish species.

Look at the Safety Signs and ask a Lieguard for advice

Always swim between the flags

CALL

000

Go swimming with a friend and supervise children

20 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

In an emergency, call Triple Zero

Bondi to Coogee walk This clifftop he walk extends for six km from Bondi to Coogee and features stunning views, parks, cliffs, bays and rock pools. bonditocoogeewalk.com.au @wordaustralia 21

BLUE MOUNTAINS

The Blue Mountains are a popular day or overnight escape from Sydney. Just 50 kilometres from Sydney and part of the Great Dividing Range, the area is shrouded in a blue mist, created by a regional abundance of eucalyptus oil.

Panoramic lookouts in the area include Katoomba’s Echo Point, which provides views of the Three Sisters, Sublime Point Lookout at Wentworth Falls, and Govetts Leap and Evans Lookout at Blackheath.

The Scenic Railway, is said to be the steepest railway in the world. The railway line descends 415 metres through sandstone cliffs, with a maximum gradient of 52 degrees. Also close by 22 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

is the Scenic Skyway, which traverses the Jamison Valley, and the Scenic Cableway, reported to be the steepest aerial cable car in the southern hemisphere.

For the more adventurous there are over 140 kilometres of walking tracks for all levels are in this region and its regarded as a world class location for bushwalking. Abseiling, canyoning, mountain-biking and adventure caving are also available activities. Check out High’n’Wild Abseiling (highandwild.com.au) The Greater Blue Mountains area is made up of seven national parks, including: the Blue Mountains, Wollemi, Yengo, Nattai, KanangraBoyd, Gardens of Stone and Thirimere Lakes.

CANBERRA, ACT

It’s Australia’s Capital City and a wonderful place to explore. Its also only three hours drive or bus ride from Sydney. There is an abundance of attractions including the fabulous Australian War Memorial, the National Gallery of Australia, Questacon (with over 200 educational and interactive exhibits), Parliament House, the National Archives of Australia and Royal Australian Mint.

Canberra is also an excellent place to ‘take to the skies’ with a hot air balloon flight. One of the only places in the world you can fly over a nation’s

capital. The combination of city architectural wonder and breath-taking country scenery make this a once in a lifetime experience. Don’t miss out! visitcanberra.com.au ramint.com.au canberraballoons.com.au

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Kakadu

Cape Tr i b u l a t i o n

Mission Beach Whitsundays

Kimberley

Airlie Beach

1770

Fraser Island

Kings Canyon Uluru

Exmouth

Noosa

Hervey Bay Rainbow Beach Gold Coast

Byron Bay Coffs Harbour Port Macquarie

Coober Pedy Blue Mountains

Esperance

Kangaroo Island

Great Ocean Rd

24 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

@wordaustralia 25

BYRON BAY

Once a major hippy destination and a place to escape from the hustle and bustle of city life in Sydney or Brisbane. Today Byron is a great holiday destination due to its very laid back and cruisy lifestyle. It is a traveller’s dream stop off with beautiful golden beaches and a lovely north coast climate.

Spend a few days here when travelling north or fly direct to Ballina or Coast Coast airports and drop in. Byron is blessed with beautiful beaches and Main Beach is where most people go to layout and hang out. Tallows is ideal for the surfers. Wategos is great for the quieter time.

GOLD COAST, QUEENSLAND

Top 3 Byron Bay Lighthouse Walk up to the lighthouse before sunrise and watch the dawn. This is Australia’s most easterly point and is an enlightening experience.

Dolphin Watch Check out the resident dolphin pod by kayak or on your way to dive Julian Rocks. You are almost guaranteed to see them.

Snorkelling The Julian Rocks were named second in the top 10 snorkel spots in all of Australia to try and you’ll be astonished by the variety of marine life.

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BY CHRIS HARRISON Your gateway to Queensland, be it by air into Coolangatta Airport or by road from northern NSW. Gold Coast or ‘The GC’ is a must-see tourist destination for all international visitors. With 57km of white sandy surf beaches, its many world heritage listed rain-forests and the titles of ‘themepark’ and ‘nightclub’ capital of Australia’, Gold Coast has something for everyone.

For the best views of the coast I tried Skypoint, at 322

metres (1058 feet) and with the observation floor, which includes as outstanding restaurant, on level 77 (at 230 metres/755 feet) its the highest of its kind in Queensland. Skypoint offered some amazing views north to Brisbane and south to Byron Bay. For an even bigger thrill try, like I did, the Skypoint Climb and actually walk outside the glass.

I was also thrilled by two of the Gold Coast’s many themeparks: Dreamworld and Sea World, they offer great value for a day out. While out at Coomera for Dreamworld (24kms from Surfers Paradise) why not make @wordaustralia 27

it a night out too and try the Australian Outback Spectacular, its great friendly entertainment and a three-course dinner is included.

The next day you just have to get onto the Gold Coast Broadwater, a river and inlet system that’s 8 times bigger than rivals Venice or Amsterdam and full of on-the-water activities.

I tried spinning 360 degrees in a high-powered jet boat with Paradise Jet Boating from Marina’s Cove, Main Beach. Sea World is also at Main Beach, so you could also combine these two attractions in the same day.

If you’ve now had enough exercise and adrenalin for one day why not head back towards Coolangatta and drop into Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary. Set in around 45ha of native forest the Sanctuary has developed around its

world-famous lorikeet feeding.

Its now a major tourist attraction and has a Queensland Heritage Register listing. By far the best way to get around is by the new Segways - easy to use, fun and safe transport.

This is just a quick snapshot as there are more activities and attractions for young and adventurous travellers on the Gold Coast than any other city in the Southern Hemisphere.

To enquire or book: Skypoint Climb 07 5680 7700 skypointclimb.com.au Dreamworld 07 5588 1111 dreamworld.com.au Sea World 07 5588 2222 seaworld.com.au Australian Outback Spectacular 13 33 86 outbackspectacular.com.au Paradise Jet Boating 1300 538 262 paradisejetboating.com.au Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary 1300 886 511 cws.org.au For more details visitgoldcoast.com/adventure studygoldcoast.org.au

28 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

IT’S YOUR BREAK

facebook.com/AdventureGoldCoast #ADVENTUREGOLDCOAST youtube.com/VisitGoldCoast

@wordaustralia 29

BRISBANE

The capital of Queensland, with a population of about two million. Explore Brisbane on a guided walk, cruising the river on a CityCat ferry or riding a bike along the riverside pathways Enjoy a swim at South Bank, home to Australia’s only inner

WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS & AIRLIE city beach. Abseil down the historic Kangaroo Point Cliffs, kayak or paddle-board the Brisbane river.

Feed a wild dolphin at Tangalooma Island Resort on Moreton Island. Visit Moreton Island, only 25 kilometres from Brisbane and go diving, surfing or sand tobogganing.

Dive, kayak or sail Brisbane’s Moreton Bay Marine Park – sanctuary for the world’s largest dugong (Manatee) population.

For more information go to: thewordaustralia.com.au/ queensland

FRASER ISLAND

A real favourite for many travellers Fraser is the world’s largest sand island and was officially acknowledged in 1992 when it was accorded World Heritage Area status.

Fraser Island is home to an abundance of wildlife, you’ll find over 325 species of birds as well as gliders, wallabies, possums 30 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

We all know that the Whitsunday Islands are the place to go sailing and Airlie is really, well, party central.

How about something a little different? Check out the following to whet your appetite and stay an extra few days in this tropical paradise.

coral brimming with colourful fish or informing you of the local history. Whitehaven Beach has the whitest sand in the world and the water colours shift from bright blue to aquamarine. oceanrafting.com.au

Ocean Rafting and dingoes. Offshore dugongs, turtles and dolphins can be spotted playing in the Great Sandy Straits and Platypus Bay. If touring: first decide whether you prefer exploring Fraser island by self-drive or guided tour. Self driving requires a four wheel drive vehicle, maps, permits and camping equipment, which can all be obtained from one of the island’s four wheel drive rental companies. Or join a tour company and meet some new friends.

Cool Dingo are one of the best available.

1800 372 737 cooldingotour.com

Enjoy a thrilling ride out to the Whitsunday Islands and the famous Whitehaven Beach.

Skim fast over the water on an exhilarating ride. These guys do a great job of looking after you, whether snorkelling over natural

Reef Sleep Ever dreamt of sleeping in a swag out in the middle

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P: 07 4946 6848 | www.oceanrafting.com.au @wordaustralia 31

Stand Up Paddle Boarding The not so new craze has hit Airlie Beach. A really great option to paddle around the moored boats just offshore.

Keep your eyes peeled for dugongs in the bay and soaring eagles above. Rent boards by the hour and have a workout at the same time! whitsundaystanduppaddle.com.au Wings Adventure Park Get Dirty! Race a mini 4WD through the amazing hinterland on the Whitsunday Coast at the new Wings Adventure Park.

www.cairnsdive.com.au Gr e

Climb from the vallery floor to the hilltops of the rainforest, slash through pod holes, and conquer tracks through grassland, marshland, wetland, creek beds and bumps. wings.com.au

arrier tB R a

ef e

of the ocean, surrounded by an amazing reef system. Well, you can. Cruise Whitsunday Islands have a great package to visit their permanent pontoon 40 kilometres offshore on the Great Barrier Reef. Travel by luxury high speed reef vessel and spend the day on the reef. Watch the sunset from your open air balcony while you sip a glass of champagne.

View the reef at night from the underwater real time aquarium. Give Reefsleep a go. cruisewhitsundays.com

D I V E CENTRE

Rainforest Discovery Tour Ride your own Segway through the lush green rainforest and discover Conway National Park. Enjoy delicious morning tea under the canopy of the rainforest and relax by the crystal clear waters of Impulse Creek. whitsundaysegwaytours.com.au New Mountain Bike Trails Mountain Biking in the Whitsundays is truly unique.

Climb to the tops of the rainforest of the Whitsunday Great Walk or ride alongside the azure blue waters and the Whitsunday Islands on South Molle Island. whitsundaymtbc.com.au

AUSTRALIA

• Learn to Dive • Glass Bottom Boat Day & Night Tours • Introductory Diving • Snorkelling • Island Hire - coral viewing

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32 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

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@wordaustralia 33

CAPE TRIBULATION

CAIRNS

rainforest in the world, Cape Trib is has four main resorts catering to backpackers and upmarket tourists, and some unique rainforest bed and breakfasts.

Two of the Best

If you have never been to tropical north Queensland, especially Cairns, then you are in for a good time. As the adventure capital of Australia, Cairns has a multitude of activities on offer. The only restriction you may have is time and money.

Diving/ Snorkelling What else can we say, but the Great Barrier Reef. One of the natural wonders of the world and visible from space. You can be a part of it either snorkelling or diving. Only a few hours from Cairns by boat, the reef appears on the horizon.

Underwater is a whole new experience, new life, a myriad of glinting colourful fish and corals.

There are plenty of day trips available but staying overnight is highly recommended. cairnsdive.com.au

Ocean Safari Spend a half day on your own private snorkelling reef. Travel on a fast water sports boat.

Cruise around with turtles, nemo and even reef sharks.

Or ‘Cape Trib’ as the locals like to call it, is 90 minutes (or 110kms) north of Cairns and best seen over two days. Right in the heart of the Daintree rainforest, the oldest

Jungle Surfing Get high in the rainforest.

Swing through the jungle from tree to tree. Don’t worry, you are attached by ropes and harnesses.

Bungy Jumping Standing on a platform high above the jungle canopy, looking down onto a small pond of water, the weight of the ropes want to pull you over the edge to the abyss below. The countdown is on 10..9..8.. will you jump or not? Only you can decide. ajhackett.com/cairns

“Best Value Tour In Australia” - tripadvisor.com

CAPE TRIBULATION REEF EXPERIENCE

• Great Barrier Reef Half Day ECO TOUR • Quickest tour to the Great Barrier Reef • Stay onsite at Jungle Lodge

1300-CAIRNS www.downunderdive.com.au 34 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

P: 07 4098 0006 | tours@oceansafari.com.au | www.oceansafari.com.au @wordaustralia 35

NORTHERN TERRITORY Uluru and the Red Centre

Darwin, Kakadu and Litchfield Darwin is ‘the capital of the NT’ and one of the fastest growing and most cosmopolitan cities in Australia.

It is steeped in rich history, from its Aboriginal roots to its modern WW2 heritage.

Visit Crocosaurus Cove in Mitchell Street. This is the home of the Cage of Death and has plenty of crocs. croccove.com

Mindil Beach Markets are open every Thursday and Sunday and are well worth a visit for food and cool stuff to buy. Watch the sun setting from the beach. mindil.com.au 36 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

Kakadu National Park is the main attraction of the region. Discover the remarkable landscape, wildlife and rich culture. Amazing rock-art sites show the importance of the link between the indigenous custodians and the surrounding country. Explore spectacular wetlands full of birds and crocs.

Swim in clear pools. Kakadu is best visited with an organized tour over a few days. Guides are very knowledgeable about the fauna and flora.

If you haven’t seen Uluru (Ayers Rock) at sunrise or sunset, then you are in for a beautiful surprise. The colour changes are amazing from purple to red and all the colours in between.

The team from The Rock Tour will look after you, feed you and drive you to the best viewing spots. You head straight to Uluru from your accommodation and learn about the Dreamtime at the Aboriginal Cultural Centre.

The Uluru Base Walk gives you the opportunity to take in the spiritual nature of the

gorges, waterholes and cave paintings. Dinner is at the local camp ground resort and you will sleep overnight in swags under a million stars.

The sunrise viewing reveals Uluru in its true glory before setting off to Kata Tjuta and the Valley of the Winds.

Here your guide will teach you about bush tucker and the ancient rock formations. Try eating a witchetty grub, but make sure you take a photo!!

The three day, two night tour then heads to the amazing Kings Canyon.

Go with the professionals, go with The Rock Tour.

Litchfield National Park is only 1.5 hours south of Darwin, Litchfield is a smaller version of Kakadu and a popular day tour from Darwin. @wordaustralia 37

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Remote, vast and beautifully diverse. ‘WA’ is also famous for its long days of sunshine and dramatic landscapes.

With surf, reef, forest, and rugged national parks it’s little wonder young travellers are now heading west.

Recent booms in growth and development, especially in the mining and hospitality industries make it an exciting and vibrant place to be, with many future development plans in the pipeline.

Taking in the delights of Western Australia requires a little bit more effort, but that merely serves to make the achievement all the more rewarding. Hiring a 4WD helps to tackle the dirt tracks of the northern national parks and organised tours will cover wine

38 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

regions, coastal stretches and city hubs.

Perth is Australia’s sunniest capital city, its also urban cool and raw natural beauty rolled into one. Perth is also home to Kings Park, a beautiful inner city park, some nearby wineries and of course stunning city beaches.

Be sure to visit Rottnest Island and lovely Freemantle.

Ningaloo Reef is less well know than its East Australian cousin the Great Barrier Reef but is just as beautiful. Waters are pristine and the reef can easily be accessed from the shore. Between April and July, come and see the migrating whale sharks, the largest fish in the world.

Monkey Mia is one of Western Australia’s most famous dolphin watching destinations.

This calm bay is world famous for the pod of friendly dolphins that visit the shore most days to be hand fed.

Located 25 kilometres from the town of Denham in the Shark Bay World Heritage area, offers a unique chance to

see wild dolphins in their natural habitat.

Climb, swim or gaze into the depths of Karijini Gorge’s 100 metre chasms, revealing four billion years of the Earth’s history and some of the oldest rocks on the planet. Follow the trails, descend into cavernous gorges and cool off in inviting pools beneath plunging waterfalls.

Pinnacles are only two hours from Perth. The lunar-like formations are one of Australia’s most unique and fascinating natural landscapes. Formed over millions of years, thousands of tall limestone spires rise eerily out of the yellow desert sands

of Nambung National Park, just outside the coastal town of Cervantes.

Broome’s Cable Beach is justifiably world famous for its 22 kilometres of sun-kissed white sand, turquoise water and spectacular Indian Ocean sunsets. But what really gives it a top spot on the must-do list is the experience of taking in all its tropical splendour from the seat of a camel train.

@wordaustralia 39

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

Adelaide is a city of innovation and culture. Home to one of the world’s great arts festivals and some amazing inner city food markets. This state capital’s highest acclaim could be its easy access to the stunning South Australian Outback and 3,800 kilometres of amazing coastline, some of the best wine and seafood regions in the world are also on Adelaide’s doorstep.

Free stuff - Bike SA runs the Adelaide City Bikes scheme. A free daily bike hire program for tourists, visitors, city workers, students and residents who use the bikes as a convenient way to get around the city.

Stop off at some of Adelaide’s great attractions such as the Art Gallery of South Australia and Adelaide Botanic Garden.

For chocolate lovers, enjoy special chocolate tastings, see chocolates being made and discover the heritage behind Haigh’s, Australia’s oldest chocolate manufacturer, where chocolate is still handmade.

SA has the most accessible 40 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

outback in Australia. Everything is so close to Adelaide. Plus the city beach (Glenelg) is just 20 minutes by tram from the city centre.

Kangaroo Island, a zoo without fences, a sanctuary for wildlife and natural that has a rugged beauty all its own. The ocean is teeming with sea lions and fairy penguin colonies. Plus rare bird life, Tammar wallabies, short-beaked echidnas and plenty of kangaroos and koalas.

What can we possibly say about the Eyre Peninsular?

Simple - SHARKS SHARKS SHARKS. This is the place in the world to get up close and personal with Great White Sharks.

For more details visit southaustralia.com

SOUTH AUSTRALIA’S OUTBACK TOWNS

If it’s adventure you are looking for then you can’t go past the South Australian Outback. Legendary tracks like Birdsville, Oodnadatta, Strezlecki and Beadell’s Bomb together with some of Australia’s most famous deserts and lakes.

Coober Pedy The world’s largest producer of opals. This special mining town of 3,500 is located on the sealed Stuart Highway 850km north of Adelaide. I bet living in a cave doesn’t sound comfortable to you?

Well Coober Pedy will prove you wrong: about 80% of the population lives underground, so don’t miss the unbelievable experience of sleeping in caves yourself.

along the Norfolk Island pine lined foreshore. Guests can also indulge in a boat charters, 4WD driving tours and some great whale watching.

Port Augusta A seaport and railway junction at the head of the Spencer Gulf. The town is home to over 13,000. Port Augusta has plenty to offer tourists including the Wadlata Outback Centre (a tourist information centre introducing visitors to life in the Australian Outback) and Homestead Park Pioneer Museum (railway and farming museum).

For more information visit southaustralia.com.au

Ceduna Home to 2300, the name is said to mean ‘place to sit down and rest’(from the Aboriginal word Chedoona).

Ceduna certainly has a lot on offer; there are small boats @wordaustralia 41

VICTORIA

Melbourne – recently been named the most liveable city in the world – is increasingly seen as an ideal base for working holiday makers. A fun, ever-changing, exciting city with a thriving cafe, bar and live music scene.

DEVILS AND TIGERS IN TASMANIA

to Torquay, the Great Ocean Road hugs the coastline for more than 300 kilometres before reaching Warrnambool.

Natural wonders include some giant rock stacks soaring from the Pacific Ocean, the Twelve Apostles are the best known natural feature of the area.

Wilsons Promontory

Melbourne is also one of the world’s most renowned street art cities. Visitors love checking out Melbourne’s hidden laneways for the street, cafes and bars.

These can be discovered in the most unlikely locations - on roof tops, in basements, in shipping containers and even in beauty salons and retail stores.

Great Ocean Road One of Australia’s most famous scenic routes, Victoria’s Great Ocean Road certainly lives up to its name. From Melbourne 42 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

Located 220 kilometres southeast of Melbourne, Wilsons Promontory, or ‘The Prom’, a perfect weekend getaway. Covering 49,000 hectares of Australia’s southernmost tip, The Prom used to be part of a ‘land bridge’ linking Tasmania to Victoria.

For more information visit tourism.vic.gov.au Now to reach Tasmania you can fly or travel by ferry the ‘Spirit of Tasmania’ from Melbourne to Devonport. The trip takes 9-11 hours and there are day and night sailings. Visit spirintoftasmania com.au for details.

BY MIKE BARROW One of Australia’s remotest rainforests lies not in the tropics but on Tasmania’s west coast. A wilderness of extraordinary beauty, thick temperate forests containing devils and tigers! The devils are Tassie devils. The region provides a sanctuary for their survival. The tiger (Thylacine) hasn’t been spotted for many years. This region is called the Tarkine.

Some are over 3000 years old but many have been logged in the past for shipbuilding.

Evidence of the logging can be seen at the head of the Pieman River where huge logs have been washed up on the coastline. In the later 1800’s settlers and prospectors found, gold, copper and tin.

Iron ore mining still exists today. Campaigns to prevent new mines destroying this pristine region are heating up.

For 40,000 years it has been the home to the Tasmanian Aboriginal people. In the 1800s Early white explorers discovered trees for logging. There are vast forests of myrtle, leatherwood and sassafras, the last remnants of Gondwana forests. On the Pieman River banks stand rare Tasmanian Huon pines. @wordaustralia 43

The Tarkine’s Top things to do 1. Walking is a must do activity. There are plenty of options including Montezumas Falls, a beautiful walk through beach and myrtle forests to a 104m waterfall, the highest in Tasmania.

2. Zeehan is an historic museum. Half of the town exists today as a reminder to the hardships and history of this part of Tassie. Well worth half day to check it all out.

3. Corinna lies on the Pieman River and is the southern gateway to the Tarkine. Get the small car ferry across and have lunch at the Corinna Hotel.

4. Arcadia II, a wooden excursion boat, runs every day from Corinna to the Pieman River heads. The coastal walk here is magnificent along

wild and rugged west coast beaches. Notice the enormous washed up remnants of Huon Pine logs on the beach.

5. Mount Donaldson walk takes a few hours to the peak. Enjoy the transition from forest to the open buttongrass ridge to the summit. There are great views across to Cradle Mountain and down the Pieman River.

6. Drop by the village of Waratah, the ’Town of Tin’.

There is a lovely waterfall in the centre of town. In season, the town is awash with native flowering red Waratahs.

7. Tasmanian Devils are common in this region.

However, they are nocturnal, so expect only to see footprints and ‘scats’ (Devil poo).

8. Thylacine was once common in the Tarkine. These Tasmanian Tigers are now thought to be extinct. Sightings may occur although there is no live footage. Take your camera!

9. Support the region and help the prevention of logging and mining. The Tarkine is yet to be a designated World Heritage listed region. Check out tarkine. org for more information.

44 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map

The west coast of the Tarkine is a rest stop for the endangered orange-bellied parrots on their migratory path. This region is crucial for their survival. Look out in the treetops for Tasmanian wedge-tailed eagles, one of the world’s largest eagles.

On the coast, white-bellied sea eagles roam the skies.

crayfish, the largest freshwater crustacean in the world, measuring up to 50cm long and weighing two kilos! Recent mining activity and lack of environmental protection has put their existence under threat.

The Tarkine is a magical diverse ecosystem which, without help, is prey to human mining and logging. Go see for yourself and help preserve this extraordinary place.

Mike Barrow was a guest of Park Trek tours; see parktrek.com.au @wordaustralia

The coast is wild with some of the world’s purest air. Experience the raw fury of the Roaring Forties as the prevailing winds meet the Tarkine coast. The coastline is an array of rocky cliffs, sandy beaches, lagoons and estuaries.

The Tarkine is home to wild and remote rivers such as Pedder, Rapid and Donaldson where they run from source to sea. The Arthur River is completely wild, never logged or dammed and free from bushfires for over 650 years. In these pristine river catchments, you can find the giant freshwater @wordaustralia 45

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48 THE WORD Australia Aussie Guide & Map Kings Cross Artarmon

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