Archive for » September, 2010 «

Escape Melbourne city life take a few days off in Torquay
Tuesday, September 28th, 2010 /

Along to Australian coast south of Melbourne is the town of Torquay. This is known as the gateway to the Great Ocean road and many tourists visit along their journey. This area had always been settled though Europeans did not start flocking to it until the mid 1800s. It was a popular vacation spot. Eventually many people decided to settle in one spot and named the new town Torquay, after the seaside resort in England.

Torquay The beach is one of the biggest draws for tourists and much of the recent development around Torquay sets the beach apart from the older, more historic part of town. Besides the beach this is a world renowned area for surfing. Bells beach and Juan Juc are 2 world renowned surfing beaches near the town. Each year the Rip Curl Pro Surf & Music festival is held at Torquay as long as conditions are suitable for surfing.

The town is separated into several sections or districts. The Ocean Views area of town is on the southern side. This area is now residential but originally started out as grazing land for sheep and cattle. Other districts of Torquay include Zeally Bay, Church Estate, Wombah Park and Illawong estate.

Besides surfing there are beautiful coastal walks that will take you through the different types of nature and scenery in this area of Victoria. In particular the surf coast walk brings you to spots on high cliffs, the ability to view native birds, walking through the dense forests and enjoying the stunning ocean views.

This area of Australia is home to many endangered and rare animals. While the entire surf coast walk stretches for 35 kms different sections can easily be done as day hikes. In particular the walks around Bells beach and Point Addis are popular.

Some other popular walks in the area allow you to explore an old jarosite mine on the Jarosite track, which is 5 kms. If you are interested in the native plants and how they are used medicinally then follow the Koori walk. A short spur of the surf coast track is the ironbark track that passes through the dense forests and eventually leads to some great lookouts of Point Addis.

Otways rainforestThere are also many limestone reefs off the coast and an area for some excellent snorkelling is at the Point Danger marine sanctuary. The snorkelling and scuba diving is a great way to view the native ocean life up close and personal. Besides water activity the marine sanctuary has many walks that detail the history of the area.

Of course if you are in Torquay then you should not miss one of the world’s great motoring or touring routes. This runs from Melbourne to Adelaide and contains Mount Gambier’s Blue Lakes, Bells Beach, the Coonawarra wine region, the twelve apostles, the surf coast and the Otways rainforest. It is possible to rent kayaks, bikes and surfing equipment to stop off for some relaxation or adventure during the drive. In particular the Southern Exposure Company offers many activities and equipment.

If you are planning your next vacation, find Great Ocean Road accommodation, attractions and other travel related information about the Great Ocean Road. Or find out more about other local towns like Port Campbell on our hub.

Category: Great Ocean Road  Tags: , , , ,  Leave a Comment
Discover the historic site of Portland Victoria
Tuesday, September 21st, 2010 /

The fascinating town of Portland in Victoria is allegedly the first permanent colonisation in the state. Because of that it has of course a very rich cultural heritage. As an example you will discover over two hundred historical buildings dating back to around the eighteen hundreds.

Portland Beach There is a long history of seafaring, dating back to the old whalers and sealers who frequented the safe harbour offered from the frequent boisterous storms. The town is blessed with a safe deep-water harbour.

There is a fascinating maritime centre in the town, which offers tourists terrific displays of historical artefacts. You will discover the skeletal remains of sperm whales shipwreck exhibits and even a shark showcase. There is a variety of intriguing exhibits, including the original Portland lifeboat dating from the eighteen fifties. Many of the displays are interactive too, making then ideal for kids of every age! All tourism enquiries, Portland accommodation requirements and transit jaunts etc. Are dealt with at the centre.

The waterfront is a hive of activity; early morning fishing fleets bringing in the fresh catches, and vessels from all around the world loading on tons of locally produced produce. Many times local citizens and visitors alike can be seen exploring the foreshore, hoping (at least in the winter months) to catch a glimpse of the giant whales that often pay a visit. Yes, busy is the word!

The entire region offers an enormous array of facilities to its lucky visitors. A very popular draw is the Great South West Walk. It starts and ends in the town. The pathways reach out into the interior for more than 150 miles. There are long and short hiking trails, and plenty of camping facilities on the way. You will encounter verdant woodland, winding rivers, mountains and shorelines. Local artists and galleries sponsor one unusual walk.

Portland has an excellent cable tram service, and there is a rail terminal at the corner of Henty Park by the Depot Museum. There is a very scenic trip you can take all around the metropolis and area, taking in arboretums and world war two lookout towers near the Nautical Centre.

The local arts centre has a gallery and theatre boasting frequent visiting and local productions. The cultural diversity of this region is immense. Musicians, Quilters, Painters, Potters, are all to be seen trading their wares here. No problem deciding on a gift for a loved one then!

The Arts Company is located on Julia Street in newly renovated offices. You will be able to visit the artisans at work in adjacent workshops if you wish. The aforesaid Maritime Centre, incidentally, can help you prepare your travel itinerary to visit all the areas must see attractions; cruising the harbour, fishing, canoeing, mountain-biking and horse riding, to name but a few.

There is a captivating European Immigration-settlements display at the centre, showing in great detail the routes our ancestors took from all over Europe to settle in Oz.Portland is a reminder of the regions heritage and rich past, a heritage that continues into this present day. Should you be contemplating settling or buying a vacation home in this lovely place, you will find excellent properties here.

Category: Great Ocean Road  Tags: , , , ,  Leave a Comment
Port Campbell is a great base to explore the Great Ocean Road of Australia
Tuesday, September 21st, 2010 /

Port Campbell is a charming fishing village located near the towns of Warnamabool and Lavers Hill. Port Campbell is near the end of the Great Ocean Road. This beautiful area offers stunningly beautiful views that will be hard to forget. Nestled under soaring cliffs this quaint little village will offer you a place to rest and relax and take in the beauty of nature which is abundant in this area.

Port Campbell Town Because of many well known attractions this quaint little fishing village is just the place to visit. A famous site that everyone will want to see is the Twelve Apostles. These limestone stacks rising from the sea have sustained some damage from erosion over time and now there are only eight left. Regardless these are a must see when visiting.

Loch Ard Gorge From the high rocky cliffs to the beauty of the white sandy shores the coastline surrounding this small town offers all the beauty you could imagine. A visit to London Bridge or to the Loch Ard Gorge will be a unforgettable trip. Gibson Steps is another site you will not want to miss. The Bay of Islands will enchant you with its stunning beauty so make sure you have time for some time spent there.

Port CampbellAt the centre of town is Lord Street. Lord Street embodies the uniqueness of this area and is the home to the many cafes and restaurants. One and all can find a menu that will please them in price and cuisine. The bakeries are to die for with an abundance of baked goods and scrumptious desserts. The local artisans and craftsman offer their goods and creations at the local shops. Take a walk among the galleries and see all of the art displayed be sure there will be something there you will want. During the summer months you will want to check out the local markets the fresh goods sold there will truly be enjoyable.

Fishing of course is a big deal here. The fishing fleets always offer fresh fish for the local markets and businesses. All of you fishermen that visit can enjoy surf fishing or fishing from the local pier. If your heart so desires and you would like to go for the big catch there are charter boats that will be glad to cater to your needs.

Do not worry about a place to stay. Your choice of Port Campbell accommodation options range from the expensive luxury places to the quaint understated for the budget minded. Motels, cabins and bed and breakfasts offer the charm of the village. Farm stays are fun and loved by the budget watchers. For those who want luxury there are fantastic apartments that won’t disappoint.

Photographers and sightseers alike will be enthralled with the beauty of this area. There are two beautiful parks to explore while you are on your stay. Port Campbell National Park and Bay of Islands National Park will give you the sights you will not want to miss and the photo opportunities that will be priceless.

It is said that the the place to surf is Two Mile Bay which touts the best big wave breaks in all of Australia. The dive tours here are a must if scuba diving is your thing. The canyons and gorges that form on the ocean floor is where you will want to go on your dive tour. This is a dive that you will not forget. If diving is too much for you then snorkelling is the next best thing. But if all of this is just too much action then just talk a walk along the beach and swim in the bay and don’t forget to enjoy those sunsets at Port Campbell.

Category: Great Ocean Road  Tags: , , , ,  Leave a Comment
Take Your Next Family Holiday In Twin Waters on the Sunshine Coast Australia
Wednesday, September 15th, 2010 /

With something for everyone, the Twin Waters suburb of Queensland Australia is a suburb of the Sunshine Coastal area. This region is a big tourist district and has wonderful shopping, nightlife and of course, water activities. A group of friends or family vacationers could hang about an all inclusive resort which has a bit of everything right there so that no one has to go out of the area unless they want to do a bit of sightseeing or perhaps a museum visit.

Mt Coolum Golf Club For the golfers in the group there are beautiful, scenic golf courses starting with the Mount Coolum Golf Club. This golfing range sponsors a monthly metal competition, typically held on the first Saturday of each month and there are different prizes for the winner. This championship, 18 hole, par 72 course is not for the faint of heart. There are other games of golf in and around town including the Golf Qld, Golf Australia and Sunshine Coast Golf.

If lying on the beach, soaking up the sun is more your style, then the Mooloolaba beach is the perfect choice. The white sandy beaches and lots of water sports will keep people busy all day or all week. There is snorkelling, deep sea fishing, wind surfing or boogie boarding. For those who like their water activities a little calmer, there are hundreds of chairs for lounging by the shore to soak up the sun and maybe take a dip in the surf.

Australia Zoo Also along the Mooloolaba region is the famous Australia Zoo which was home to the late Croc Hunter and now his lovely daughter, Bindi. This is a great zoo in which to spend a day with the many different animals. And spend the day one will; an individual can play, pet and feed many of the different species and breeds of wildlife.

Known for its various different shopping and restaurant experiences and Mooloolaba holiday apartments, this region is also popular for the unique and unusual architectural built structures one could admire and visit while on their trip. After that, head to the Aussie World amusement park that has over 30 games and rides to choose from to thrill and entertain you. There is also the Big Kart Track that allows its guests a place to navigate chicanes, wild bends and hairpin turns in the small highway, what an adrenalin rush.

Cotton Tree is another great place to visit while vacationing in the Waters of Twin region and it’s one of the best kept secrets. This area lies between the ocean and the opening of the river. Each Sunday morning features a market of produce, different types of wares and handicrafts. Thousands of tourists and locals flock to the market every weekend and this is a great holiday destination for hundreds of travellers.

the Big Pineapple Also a symbol of Queensland it the Big Pineapple, a major iconic symbol of the area on the Sunshine Coast and for many years, it has been amusing visitors. The plantation train will help take people around the farm to see everything they have every wanted to see about the pineapple.

A drive along the Blackall Range is where a lot of the tourists take their peaceful and relaxing drives to view and visit the Flaxton with the examples of the different early ‘Queenslanders’ with their solid timber houses and lots of character in their buildings, many with the verandas of spacious build. Viewing is never a problem here for they sit atop a ridge and the Twin Waters is not far so a quick day trip would be in order for a group of travellers or a family.

Category: Sunshine Coast  Tags: , , , , ,  Leave a Comment
Paynesville Is A Nautical Vacation Wonderland
Sunday, September 12th, 2010 /

Paynesville Without doubt, the former ship building centre of Paynesville is one of the most popular holiday places in Victoria for numerous water sports. Here you will find just about any type of activity related to water, as well as marvellous scenery and a generous abundance of wildlife. It is the ideal spot for both nature enthusiasts and water lovers.

 

About three hundred kilometres east of Melbourne, Paynesville is a captivating settlement, surrounded by lakes among Australia’s famous Gippsland waterways. The unique placement between Lake Victoria, Lake King and Lake Wellington affords visitors access to both fresh water and salt water activities in the area’s immense network of rivers, coastal waterways and lakes.

Paynesville is surely the area’s central location for boating. There are countless marinas for docking, launching or renting a boat. The comprehensive canal systems make it simple to travel around the whole of East Gippsland. Boaters can sail their own or charter vessels for dining, fishing or sightseeing.

Paynesville Raymond Island ferry Also, there are numerous chances for tubing, kayaking and canoeing in the Mitchell River area. This is a wonderful place for experiencing the wildlife areas, wilderness landscapes and magnificent scenery. A truly interesting natural feature to be seen here is called the Silt Jetties. These are 8 kilometre long deltas formed at the mouth of the river and are the second biggest of their type in the world.

As well as all the aquatic recreational activities, Paynesville also is noted for being the place to study plant varieties, geological formations and native wildlife species. In addition to the lakes and waterways, the local environments include woods, grasslands and marshlands. Nature fanciers assemble here to watch a vast variety of animals which are teeming in their native habitats.

Among the most popular magnets for nature buffs would be the bird observatory at Rotamah Island, located on the shores of Lake Victoria. This facility is operated by the Royal Australian Ornithologists’ Union and is internationally known as a field study centre. It also operates as a museum which boasts photography, art and artefacts. Visitors here will find a large number of enthralling exhibits linked to plant life, local ecology and animal behaviour.

Birdwatchers can see literally hundreds of species of native birds, fish and mammals in the famed Lakes National Park, including rare varieties of pelicans, ducks and swans. This area is considered as having one of the most significant populations of wading birds in Australia. Guided tours also enable tourists to spot koalas, emus and kangaroos in the wild.

Of course, the lake system is heavily used for commercial and recreational fishing and almost all of the lakes are accessible by boat. The waters here have diverse varieties of fish species for fishermen, but certainly the most plentiful and popular are the black bream and the mullet. Fishing trips and assorted boating tours are available for all the lakes and rivers from most marinas around Paynesville. Many avid windsurfers, divers and water skiers regularly visit the waters here.

You can also find restaurants, shopping and first-rate Paynesville accommodation. Also, there are regular market events, yacht races and festivals. Without doubt, Paynesville is Australia’s premier location for natural and nautical vacationing.

Category: Lakes Wilderness  Tags: , , , , ,  Leave a Comment
Maroochydore on the Sunshine Coast of Australia is a Beach Front Paradise
Thursday, September 09th, 2010 /

The Sunshine Coast of Queensland is dotted with numerous small towns that swell with visitors every year. Right in the centre is Maroochydore, on the Maroochy River. Visitors to the area can plan for a busy stay or relax by the soothing waters of sea or river.

Start slow with a trip to a local Sunday Market to purchase unusual souvenirs. Spend some time on the beach catching some of that famous Australian sunshine. Choices lean towards the active visitor, but you can take a quiet break here too.

Hire a bicycle and take a professionally guided or self-guided tour of the area. Walkers rejoice: Bli Bli offers both cruises and boardwalk access to the Wet Lands Sanctuary. Spend some time observing the swamps and mangroves plus wildlife protected here, if you are quiet and patient enough to watch for signs of them in the tall reeds. The Bellingham Outdoor Maze will also keep guests on their toes as they navigate their way out. Enjoy other puzzling activities here too set up for children and adults who like a challenge.

maze

Of course, being situated by the water, you may want to get out and try playing in it. Arrange for lessons in knee boarding, tubing and more. Kite surfing is a popular pass time to witness or try but if you want to start slowly there is room for all abilities. Even kids can take a class in some kind of water sport and enjoy some thrills.

Try a four wheel drive safari for comfortable transportation. Tours will take you swimming in clear lake waters, snorkelling and more. View dolphins, tour rain forests, admire the view and meet people from across the globe.

2006 Kids are bound to love Sunshine Castle. Explore the genius of a re-created castle built to Norman-style design. Ascend to the circular look-out tower, gazing down over a moat and drawbridge to the imagined enemy below. View the throne room, courtyard and stage. Observe a fairytale diorama, Lord of the Rings display and even send kids on a treasure hunt. This spot should keep everyone busy for a full day.

Get your gifts and supplies at Sunshine Plaza, including extra clothes if you packed the wrong things for Maroochydore weather. This is a shopping mall with a difference featuring not just cinemas and shops. Relax next to a natural waterway with your shopping bags and a snack.

The Plaza food court offers up a wide variety of menu choices. Dip into Turkish food or sushi. Order a coffee or tea. Even indulge in the delights of cocoa at the Spanish chocolate bar.

You can choose to stay at a caravan park or budget friendly, cheerful motel with colour TV and private bathroom. On the other hand, expect high quality lodgings at Cotton Tree, an up market suburb or Maroochydore. Select from self-contained Maroochydore apartments and chalets or opt for resort style rooms with luxurious amenities. Retreat into the bush, rest on the river, or gaze out over gardens from a private balcony.

Category: Sunshine Coast  Tags: , , , , ,  Leave a Comment
Paradise In Down Under, The Gladstone Region
Tuesday, September 07th, 2010 /

Queensland is a majestic work of art coming from Nature. Its unscathed scenic beauty has earned it as the most sought tourist spots in the world. It is world-renowned inviting various walks of life to enjoy and savor the finest preserved nature. The preservation of the Great Barrier Reef proves that its settlers are serious in their goal to achieve a more harmonious and greener world. Undoubtedly it is a part of the wonders of the modern world. There are other unexplored terrains in this state one of which is the Gladstone region.

Gladstone Admittedly this harbor city is a paradise unknown to many. Located in the doorstep of the Great Barrier Reef, its majestic scenery is exemplified outstanding lake shores, poignant scenery and long beaches. It is also a home to a variety of national parks for those who would want to experience the great outback. The spirit of nature can greatly reflect on the breathtaking peaks of Mt. Castle tower National Park. Amazingly this ragged beauty that provides recreational escape and rejuvenating soul for both its settlers and tourists.

The Port City to the World is also the Engine Room of Industry for Queensland. It production of alumina is the largest in the world. No wonder its economy is stable despite industrial economic crisis. Queensland has maintained a stable spot in the industry of trade, investment and commerce. There are a number of good Gladstone Accommodation options available.

Historically Captain James Cook and his crew were enticed with its sub- tropical weather setting foot on this land in 1770. It is an ideal getaway towards outdoor activities such as fishing, swimming, boating and surfing. These are just a few of the activities you can do year-round in this once called ghost town. Currently tourists are encouraged to join sport fishing to appreciate its marine abundance. The most sought fishes would be the red emperor fish, Spanish mackerel and coral trout. One can fish near the reef where they are mostly located. Obviously the development of this charter boats departure point has grown dynamically in a progressive town.

Lake Awoonga Most tourists could not wait to go to Lake Awoonga. This inland waterway in between Calliope and Dawes Ranges is a home to the most renowned barramundi. The large plateau also serves as a home to 300,000 fishes and 200 species of birds. There is also recreation areas where you can go for swimming and hiking. If you are lucky you might get free barbecues.

National parks have been maintained to add to its cinematic experience. The vast region is covered with evergreens and unexplored areas. Exploring it can be rejuvenate the soul and clear our minds. Its coastal topography excites nature lovers thus they often consider four-wheel drive racing in its uneven terrain.

Australians are good caretakers of our environment. Preserving marine life has been the passion of this city. Museums and sanctuaries were established throughout Queensland to preserve endangered marine species including turtles. No wonder its white shores is filled with unscathed eggs and turtle hatch-ling.

The natural beauty of Queensland amazingly has withstood the change towards modernization. Despite the existence of technology the legacy of maintaining the best of Nature has lived throughout the ancestry. It is a complete balance of nature and technology.

Category: Capricorn Coast  Tags: , , ,  Leave a Comment
Take Your Next Family Holiday In Coolangatta on the Gold Coast
Thursday, September 02nd, 2010 /

Coolangatta Coolangatta is the southernmost town in Australia’s Gold Coast. It is situated in the state of Queensland, just over border from its New South Wales "twin town", Tweed Heads. Originally, a convict station, and named after a schooner which had sunk in the area, the town then developed as a centre for the logging of Queensland’s red cedar timber, and as a fishing port. Nowadays tourism is important to the area, but the good fishing remains, and provides fresh catches for the local speciality sea food restaurants. Coolangatta Airport, now called Gold Coast Airport, is near the town, and anyone holidaying here will be close to the many attractive localities around the Gold Coast area.

The area has some interesting historical connections. Mount Warning and Point Danger got their names from Captain James Cook, the British explorer, who sailed up the coast here in 1770. Point Danger is an excellent place for watching marine life, dolphins and occasionally humpbacked whales can be seen from here, as well as all sorts of sea birds.

After a short career as a convict station, Coolangatta became an important focus for the logging of red cedar from the area. The Tweed River developed as a port and the twin towns of Coolangatta (Queensland) and Tweed Heads (New South Wales) developed on either side of the state boundary. With the arrival of the railway the area began to see its first tourist visitors, coming from Queensland’s state capital, Brisbane, and from New South Wales.

The Victorian tourists frequented the three north facing local beaches: Greenmount Beach, Coolangatta Beach and Rainbow Bay, and just after that era (in 1911) the first surfing and life saving club in Queensland was founded here. Guest houses began to be built in the beach areas.

Nowadays Gold Coast Airport is found just five minutes drive from town. The local beaches are still enjoyed by swimmers and surfers, and other visitors choose to explore the coastline on foot, or by hiring bicycles.

In the centre many interesting shops and boutiques can be found, as well as many good cafes and restaurants, and lively pubs and clubs. The local fishermen ensure a regular supply of fresh catches from the Pacific, and sea food restaurants are numerous. Pubs and clubs in the area often have live music and other entertainment. There are a number of Coolangatta holiday apartments and other accommodation options available

Coolangatta is a good place to see in the New Year (NB Northern hemisphere visitors should remember that this is summer time in Australia). Because New South Wales and Queensland are in different time zones you can see the New Year in twice, first in New South Wales, and then in Queensland. Even if you stay on the Queensland side of the border you can watch the Tweed Heads firework display at 11 pm Queensland time.

Other attractions of the Gold Coast are easily reached by car from the town. There are over forty golf courses in Gold Coast, some of Australia’s largest theme parks for families, and the Gold Coast hinterland is a World Heritage area, protected by several national parks.

Category: Gold Coast  Tags: , , ,  Leave a Comment