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Take Your Next Family Holiday In Coolangatta on the Gold Coast

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.

Discover Hervey Bay on the Queensland coast of Australia

European settlers first came to Hervey Bay in the early nineteenth century, raising cattle and planting sugar at different times. These days, a diverse array of people call the city home. In fact, numbers continue to grow here so that the town you see today may look quite different a year or two from now. A visit to this coastal city provides the chance for golfing under the sun, sky diving, or just relaxing on the beach.

Hervey Bay humpback whales One thing that will stay the same is amazing scenery. Find a great shoreline outpost or board a dedicated cruise boat in search of humpback whales. These sea visitors make a regular appearance, wowing the patient viewer who has his binoculars trained out to the watery horizon.

For a different kind of cruise, get on board a four wheel drive vehicle for a tour of Fraser Island. Hervey Bay provides an launching pad for those desirous of a look at this World Heritage site. Features of note include sites of significance to the Aborigines who first populated the island plus over two hundred species of birds. Be very patient and quiet: you could see a dingo.

Tour operators like to make things as easy as possible for out of town guests. Most will pick visitors up from their city centre hotel. The horseback riding guides are among these, taking clients out to meet their equine rides for a two and a half hour tour plus refreshments. There are so many ways to meet new friends on the road.

Kids and parents with a competitive streak take heed: Golf n Game activity complex offers the chance to engage in some serious mini-golf competition. While father and son tee off, mom and daughter can enjoy a refreshing splash at the water slides. A free and fairly new water attraction has also opened up in Hervey Bay. Here there are interactive water games for kids under five and over five to take part in respectively. One can also walk the boardwalk, enjoy a drink at the coffee shop, and marvel at the use of recycled rainwater which supplies the park.

A different kind of competition pits man against fish: in this case, varieties of perch, trout, cod, snapper and more. Best your aquatic nemesis from one of many locations on land or out at sea. Other popular sports include diving and sailing.

Backpackers rejoice: Hervey Bay knew you were coming. There are several locations for you to stop and sleep, saving money for adventure instead of spending it on silk sheets. Select from a homestead or hostel style location where a common room, pool and other amenities await your enjoyment. If you brought the family in your RV, maintain a tight holiday budget by choosing a caravan park.

Not everyone has to choose between well-appointed room and enjoyable activities. Start with a Hervey Bay motel offering single or family rooms and just a bit of luxury. Move on to resorts and apartments with spas and self-catering amenities. Even look into a time share arrangement.

Discover what Bundaberg in Queensland Australia has to offer

Bundaberg Port Marina Found on the Burnett River, Bundaberg City has got a lot in store for locals and tourists alike. Situated around 229 miles from Brisbane, and found in Queensland, the city actually offers a lot of waters and beaches to the people. Locally known as ‘Bundy, ‘ the city itself is well-known for its exquisite beaches and other oceanfront sights.

Aside from the ocean, there is definitely a lot to see in this town. The Bundaberg Rum Distillery, as well as the Mon Repos Turtle Rookery are some of those tourist spots. Head on over to the Bundaberg Barrel, as well, or take a dip in the stinger-free beaches. Of course, who can forget about the Great Barrier Reef? If you love driving, on the other hand, grab a 4WD and drive around the National Parks, or you can also fish in the parks without the crowds as that of typical cities.

Bundy is found at the centre of the Wide Bay-Burnett. The name of the city, as said to be an artificial combination, came from the Kabi Aboriginal word ‘important mean, ‘ plus the German suffix for ‘mountain.’ It is also called as the "Gateway to the Great Barrier Reef" because the city is situated near the southern part of the reef. It is also quite near the Islands of Lady Musgrave Islands and Lady Elliot.

Don’t be surprised if you see flying foxes around the city all throughout the day. They live around the Burnett River’s northern part, just between the Don Talon bridge and the Burnett bridge. They leave their habitat during dusk, and then go around the city to find food.

The Mystery Craters are also found in South Kolan, where holes are mysteriously filled up with water. However, beaches are very popular in this city, as well. The Moore Park itself has golden sandy beach of over 20 kilometres. Aside from the Moore Park, there are numerous beaches around the south Burnett River. However, the Kellys Beach is the most popular for families during the summer months.

Bundaberg City has a subtropical climate, with rather mild winters but hot summers. The average rainfall every year is around 1141 millimetres. Typically, its temperature is very pleasurable to tourists and locals who love water sports and sunbathing.

The city has an airport which services flights to the Lady Elliot Island and to Brisbane. Besides flights, you may also reach the city by bus which travel to other parts of the country, as well. The airport sits beside the Central Queensland University, whose main campus is found in North Rockhampton also in Queensland.

Bundaberg is sister cities with Settsu City found in Japan, and Nanning in China. Its industry is mostly composed of sugar cane and sugar, as refineries and mills for sugar cane. They also export sugar to other countries, as well. Vegetables and fruits are also some famous industries in the country, with tomatoes, watermelons, legumes and others as some popular crops. The local beverage producer, Bundaberg Brewed Drinks, is also found in the city.

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A Travellers guide to historic Rockhampton in Queensland Australia

Head north from the Tropic of Capricorn and you will find the quaint and lovely Queensland city of Rockhampton. Resting along the Fitzroy River banks, these were once lands occupied by the Darumbal Aborigines in ancient times. European settlement touched this area of Australia in 1854 when two brothers named William and Charles Archer found it while conducting a search for suitable grazing land.

The grazing industry dominates the economy of the city even in modern times. The city embraces its reputation as the Beef Capital of Queensland and proudly displays statues of the bull breeds that figure into the local economy in prominent locations about town.

The highest concentration of office buildings, both government and corporate, is situated in the central business district. Tree lined streets separate buildings designed and built during pioneer days using the colonial architecture that was so prevalent at the time. More than two dozen buildings of historical significance including the Supreme Court, the Customs House and Heritage Tavern can be seen on the walking tour that meanders through town.

The subtropical climate beckons to those who enjoy spending time outdoors. With more than three hundred days of sunshine every year there is plenty of time to explore the surrounding areas. Native animals and plants can be found at nearby Mount Archer National Park and the panoramic city view is worth the hike to the summit.

Opened in 1988, the Cliff Kershaw Gardens sits on the former location for the city rubbish yard. A massive make over brought in flora native to the central region of Queensland. A man made waterfall sits alongside the highway and is dramatically lit after dark.

Capricorn Caves The privately owned Olsens Capricorn Caves has been open to public viewing since 1884. The amazing limestone caverns were discovered by John Olsen, a Norwegian immigrant, in 1882 and they represent Queensland’s oldest tourist attraction.

For a trip back in time, visit Rockhampton Heritage Village where you will experience pioneer life dating back in time from the era that spanned 1850 to 1950. Tours are led by guides dressed in period costume and include stops at various shops demonstrating the ancient trades like blacksmithing and woodcutting. Guests are even invited to stop by the village schoolhouse and attend a class.

The Darambal Aborigines originally occupied the land now used by the Dreamtime Cultural Centre. Along the northern creek bank, the outdoor areas feature a large waterfall and native plants along with the main building. Guided tours through the Torres Strait Islander’s Complex focuses on the lifestyle and ancient beliefs shared by native people. Boomerang lessons, dance demonstrations and didgeridoo performances highlight the various activities found at the Centre. Stop by the Aboriginal Traditional area to view replica rock art and gunyahs along with burial and ceremonial sites. A native plant exhibit and sandstone cave recreations are set up as self guided tours to allow you to explore at your own pace.

From historic sites to relaxing outdoor gardens tours, take advantage of all that that the gateway to the Capricorn Coast has to offer in sunny Rockhampton. If planning a trip to this area visit our website to find some great Rockhampton accommodation options.

Pokolbin Hunter Valley is a great choice for a sort break away

Hunter Valley Gardens Pokolbin is located in the Lower Hunter Valley wine region in New South Wales Australia, an area famed for its vintners. Pokolbin is not a town but a rural area found between the towns of Cessnock and Branxton. Because of its famed wineries and vineyards, it is a popular destination for wine lovers. It attracts other holiday makers with its day spas, resorts and local art.

Wine tourism is the Hunter Valley’s mainstay and this brings numbers of people the area. Based here are the large multinational wine companies, small home vintners and everything in between. The countryside is primarily used for the growing of grapevines. Shiraz and Semillion predominate but one will also find Chardonay, Cabernet, Sauvignon and even a little Pinot Noir.

Vintage Hunter Wine and Visitor Centre is the nerve centre of the area’s wine tourism. It can be found at 455 Wine Country drive and one finds directions here to restaurants, Pokolbin hotels, resorts and public events. Of course, one can also find a directory and maps to the wineries and cellars. Some of those located in the Valley are Vinden Estate Wines, Thalgora Estate, Blueberry Hill Vineyard, Tyrrell’s Wines and Morgan Family Wine Growers.

Pokolbin Village is the heart of the Valley and serves as a starting point from which to explore the wine country. It is at the centre of Pokolbin and is located so that the area wineries can be reached by foot. Pokolbin Village is a resort designed like a rustic town, and has spacious grounds amidst which suites, villas and even a homestead provide lodging for extended stays. The staff will aid visitors in the arrangement of winery visits and can inform them of area events and festivals.

One may also visit or stay at the Hunter Valley Gardens. This is the creation of award-winning landscapers Bill and Imelda Roche. Twelve themed gardens lie upon over 25 hectares of land. Vacationers may stay at the Mercure Resort and participate in the varied events that are offered besides the daily garden tours.

Here can be visited the Rose Garden, a corkscrew patterned garden of over 8,000 roses of more than 150 kinds. Also the Sunken Garden, made to appear like a sunken grotto beneath a large waterfall and shaped around a pond the size of five Olympic swimming pools and planted with a variety of evergreen and deciduous trees. The Chinese Garden and the Oriental Garden feature Chinese, Korean and Japanese motifs such as moss covered rocks, bamboo stands, gardens of raked gravel, pagodas amidst gingko trees and lily covered lakes stocked with Asian fish.

Both a State Forest and a National Park, Barrington Tops allows visitors to partake of nature pursuits. Huge cliffs, rain forest and fishing streams proliferate. This World Heritage site rests atop a twenty-five kilometre plateau and is home to a great variety of flora and fauna, some of it very rare. Here one can engage in canoeing, kayaking, cycling and hiking on trails and mountains, bushwalking and camping.

Step back in history in Newcastle Australia

In New South Wales, Australia, one city remembers its links to early European settlements and the important role convicts played in its construction. Newcastle embraces connections to the past as well as its ongoing relationship with the sea that lashes its shores. Today, visitors come to be wowed by past and present attractions.

The Lock Up The Lock-Up presents a bleak view of past penal life with its tiny cells. Tourists may come away feeling saddened for the people imprisoned here, knowing that many suffered simply for the courage to voice an opinion. Tour museum relics and displays with your family or as part of a school group. Take the time to view art by many locals whose work is presented in bright contrast to their sad surroundings.

Christ Church Cathedral has shown its resilience against war and an earthquake, standing tall today for visitors to admire its grace and beauty. Many tall stained glass windows were designed and created by famous Pre-Raphaelite painters from England. This sacred building maintains a bright aspect, along with exquisite marble flooring. Materials came from Australia and Italy, the latter in particular when earthquake repairs were required.

No one knows where the Nobbys gets its name, but this oddly-dubbed island performs a serious role. While welcoming vessels into Newcastle Harbour, it also offers the protection of a lighthouse. Many ships have been wrecked along this coast and numerous lives lost. The most recent wreck of merely a few years ago ended well with the ship re-floating and no lives lost. Guides will show the curious resting places of many unfortunate vessels.

At Lee Wharf on Hunter River enjoy active displays run by the Maritime Centre. Gain a better understanding of important sea-based industry to the people of Newcastle since the city first became official around 150 years ago. Bogey Hole marks the spot of an odd, sometimes dangerous pass time. Residents like to jump into this busy bathing hole from the cliffs above, or risk the waves which rush in during a storm, holding onto chains or getting washed out to sea. During good weather, safely soak up some sun without getting sand in your bathing suit.

Fort Scratchley displays relics from its 1870s origins and action during the Second World War. Guns fired here to defend the city over sixty years ago remain for the perusal of interested visitors. Guide yourself throughout the museum or join a tour, but make sure you go up top. A wide view over the harbour and sea may afford a glimpse of whales or dolphins passing through.

Enjoy all kinds of snacks and cuisine during a wander along the city streets. Precincts combine art galleries, pubs, cafes and restaurants serving Greek, Italian and more. The pubs get pretty busy along here, so if you hope to meet other tourists like yourself, this could be the place to do it.

Stay on a severe budget with backpacker accommodation or bring your young family to a resort. Newcastle Hotels, motels and bed and breakfasts will locate tourists in the city or suburbs. All kinds of lodgings wait for your booking. Rent an apartment with friends helping to cover the cost. Visit a spa for some self-care. Opt for the tranquility of a vineyard retreat.

Limo Adelaide Hire, Choose The One That Fits Your Event

Limousine Hiring a limousine is now referring to much more than a big shiny car and a dependable chauffeur in a big top hat and tails. Limousine hire is available in a other shapes, as if you were to define it simply by using the traditional image of limousine rental, you will have trouble recognizing some of its modern versions.

Initially, you probably have thought limousines are just in black and white, right? Limousine now extends across the full colour spectrum, and if you are in search for a limousine or black or white, you can put on sunglasses. Limousines are now in any colour and you can always think more of the white or black, or silver or pearl gray, cream, pink or purple, red or blue or yellow gold, and other more.

Limousine hire also made possible for you to slip into a limo that is quite as large as your house and it may seem in appearance as small as your own family vehicle, but with an interior space in placed correctly for luxury. This is because of the limousine owners who get sources of ideas not only from traditional limousine creators, but from specialty manufacturers that specializes on turning usual vehicles into modernized limousines, extending the wheelbase to give additional room for more seats and the luxury of adding accessories and a elegant ride.

But while the established luxury sedans and new model stretched autos are also categorized as a limousine, the super stretched limousines, or known to others as party buses are also limousines. Most of these super stretched limos are also renewed by specialized builders in order to provide elegant luxurious form of vehicles or party limousine.

To know further advice limo Adelaide hire

Take a few days off in Mollymook on the NSW South Coast

Mollymook Beach Pirates, aborigines and white settlers all found Mollymook idyllic in nature. Blessed with a treasure trove of temperate weather, mysterious caves and gleaming beaches, this little town located along the New South Wales coast is just waiting to be discovered by the individual or family looking for fun and adventure in a hedonistic setting.

Those afraid that such a place will be hidden too far off the beaten path will be pleased to discover that this bit of paradise is actually quite handily located almost equidistant from Sydney and Canberra a short and scenic three hour road trip. It is in the perfect spot to serve as a short get a way or as a longer family vacation.

While its is based around tourism retail and the lodging income, it creates no problem as anything one might need is available only five short minutes away in Ulladulla.

The beaches of Mollymook have already been discovered by those connoisseurs of great water, surfers. Each year sponsored festivals, contests and surfing competitions draw surfers from all over to take part. These clean and safe beaches also draw swimmers of all kinds as well as those less inclined to leave their comfy beach lounges preferring to enjoy to view and the sun.

They take care of their visitors with a plethora of Mollymook beach accommodation that take in preferences from luxurious, with 5 star hotels, to those who prefer to ‘rough it’ in the modern campgrounds available in the area. They haven’t forgotten the gustatory pleasures of a vacation either, providing familiar fast food, hearty buffets and even opulent dining experiences for those looking for an elegant night after an adventurous day.

The town enjoys the ease of such amazing neighbors as Morton National Park, known for its breathtaking waterfalls and striking foliage and Pigeon House Mountain and Murramarang. These parks offer adventure, discovery and an unmatched opportunity to experience the land as it once was. Both parks offer bushwalking with choices for those who need an easier trail and for those who want a chance to explore caves, coal mines and climbing the cliffs.

It was Captain Cook who stepped onto the shores here in 1770 where he discovered the area already inhabited by Aborigines and reported that the natives "appeared to be of a black or very dark colour". Later the local caves and artifacts that have been discovered proved that, indeed, it had been called home by a number of diverse Aboriginal groups before the white settlers arrived in 1859. The name itself seems to have come from a local species of albatross called the ‘mollymawk’. There was also a community house built by these settlers known as the "Molly Moke", all of which could be differing spellings that have wound up today as "Mollymook".

This is a ‘don’t miss’ destination for everyone of any age. The beautiful drive alone, a ribbon of clear road stretching between breathtaking cliffs and sparkling water calls you to a different place, a different time, a different adventure. Next time you plan your family vacation, take a look at Mollymook.

Milton is a great place for a long weekend or a short vacation

South of Sydney on the eastern coast of Australia, lucky tourists will have discovered a small rural town steeped in agricultural tradition. Milton is small but has begun to spill over into towns like Ulladulla and Mollymook. Still it retains individuality including its own festivals and attractions.

Visitors and locals alike look forward to events which celebrate the agricultural background of Milton. Their March Agricultural and Horticultural Show looks a lot like a county fair, with a dog show and displays of livestock like sheep and cattle. Live music, a rodeo and rides provide plenty of enjoyment for the whole family. The Settlers Fair also honours a colourful past. Witness historic displays, sheep shearing, even some magic. Listen to story telling, watch street theatre, or take a history walk. You might find souvenirs to bring home too. The Scarecrow Festival offers similar opportunities, though this time the community comes together to celebrate harvest season.

Arrive at just the right time and take a look at a monthly village market. Find unique items for yourself or to give as gifts such as jewelry, crafts and clothing. Visitors will also have the chance to purchase produce at the market to nibble while exploring or to take back to their accommodation for later meals. Many craft shops line the streets here along with galleries that show off the skills of talented citizens. Some work with paints, others with pottery. View their displays and purchase their unique pieces.

For skill of a different kind, head to a vineyard. Cupitts Winery invites tourists to the cellar door for a taste of their varieties along with bottles for sale. Tourists can always just come and enjoy beautiful scenery from this location. They also serve food so arrive in time for lunch or supper. Visit the town for a south coast wine event featuring public tasting of products from numerous wine makers representing the region. Maybe sip a winner.

GZone Flower Farm always has something flowering. Witness the evidence of their environmental commitment including an intensive recycling policy. Here you can also explore a gift shop for more novelties and food.

If you love to get outside and keep moving, your location could not be better. In Morton National Park take a bush walk or climb Pigeon House Mountain. Lake Conjola provides a lovely location for swimming, water skiing, fishing or sailing. Should you prefer to watch rather than play, just dip your toes in the water and relax.

Many options exist for Milton accommodation. Set yourself up with self-catering or look to a bed and breakfast for shared facilities and personal treatment. Hire a room at an art studio. Opt for a camp site, motel, or restored heritage home. Whatever your choice, historic Milton rests only minutes away.

Take a walk through Milton yourself to admire historic buildings throughout. The National Trust has listed the town thanks to many preserved examples of early nineteenth century architecture, including several churches. Another option is to join a walking tour and learn more about Milton hauntings.

Only a short drive from Sydney experience Wollongong

Wollongong city in New South Wales is easily accessible from Sydney. It is a multi-ethnic city and is famously known as ‘the Gong’. Its name is synonymous with pristine beaches, breathtaking coastlines, beautiful parks, industries and coal mines. The meaning of the word Wollongong is believed to be ‘the sound of the waves’ in the native language.

The influx of settlers in the 1800s was followed by rapid town-building. The settlers came from all over the world- Britain, Greece, Italy, China and India, bringing their culture and festivals. Today, these immigrants, along with the native Aborigines, form a very vibrant society.

The city has several miles of breath-taking coastline and beaches. Its pristine beaches are legendary. They are the hubs of activity during the scorching summer. People indulge in all kinds of sports like swimming, fishing and surfing. The other summer hangouts include the various parks in the city like the MacCabe park and the Botanical Gardens. Their cool shade provides the walkers and joggers relief from the summer heat.

Wollongong Lighthouse The light houses are must-visit on the to-do list. Some of the buildings like the old lighthouse, St. Michael’s Cathedral and the Courthouse are heritage buildings. They are of historical as well as architectural importance and interest. A group of islands called he Five Islands are located off the city’s coast and they serve as a rich eco-hub with hundreds of species of wildlife.

The city has a vibrant social scene with all kinds of shows, folk festivals and sporting events. The Illawara folk festival is one such event where the shows are so popular that huge crowds throng the city. Other performing arts festivals like Viva la Gong are held yearly as mediums to showcase the city’s rich culture.

Another important thread in the fabric of Gong society is art. The beauty and scenic locales inspire the artists to create wonderful masterpieces that adorn the walls of some really fabulous galleries. The arts and crafts of the region draw heavily from the native Aboriginal culture. The city also has much to offer in terms of entertainment at the Performing Arts Centre, WIN Entertainment Centre for sporting events and its other malls, nightclubs and quaint cafes.

The city’s location on the coast serves as a blessing as it enjoys pleasant breezes throughout the year. However the summers, for the same reason, can be scorching, with temperatures as high as 35 degrees and a few times, they have known to have even touched the lower forties. Thankfully, the summer weather is interspersed with soft breezes. It is also common to have slight rainfall almost throughout the year. The city can easily be reached from Sydney by road, rail and air.

The residents display the famous Australian passion for sports and outdoor activities. Popular activities include surfing, mountain climbing and biking. People sharing these passion will have a very enjoyable vacation here. It is as ideal for a family holiday as for a personal break. Wollongong is at its best during the summer when all the festivals, events and activities are in full-swing.

If heading down south from Sydney for a few day find some good Wollongong accommodation nsw, attractions and other travel related information about the area.

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