Destinations Australia 2015

the ultimate resource for every kind of traveller 2015/2016 edition

PLUS›› SHOPPING AND ATTRACTIONS ›› ROAD TRIPS FOR EVERY STATE

EXCLUSIVE 48-PAGE LUXURY GUIDE INSIDE

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in the limelightUniquely Australian experiences

inDUlge YOURSelFLuxury travel essentials

Wine & DineWhere we love to eat & drink

Desert tracksUNFORGETTABLE JOURNEYS

难忘的旅程

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Editor’s Letter

PUBLISHER & MANAGING DIRECTOR

Ross Copeland

EDITOR IN CHIEF Freya Owen

EDITOR Cassy Polimeni

SUB EDITOR Verity Russo

ART DIRECTION & DESIGN Eva Herzog Cathy Silvio Amy Tanner

NATIONAL ADVERTISING MANAGER Sue Kallincos

ADMINISTRATION Gina Copeland

SPECIAL THANKS Publicity Press Pty Ltd would like to express our

gratitude to the following individuals and organisations for their invaluable assistance:

Amelia Mitchell – Great Southern Rail; Kasi Collins – Hardie Grant Books; Rick Smolan;

Patricia Forsythe and Holly Hearne – Destination NSW; Ian Lloyd Neubauer; Donna Ciaccia –

VisitCanberra; Felicia Mariani – Tourism Victoria; Phillip Island Helicopters; Lois Airs; Guy Taylor – Tourism Tasmania; Mark Stranger, Jimmy Emms

and Hobart Yachts; Tasmania Air Adventures; Rodney Harrex – South Australian Tourism Commission; Jessie Wright; Adventure Bay

Charters; Stephanie Buckland – Tourism WA; Simone Ericsson; Nikkie Mewing and Hannah

Weir – Tourism NT; Shelley Winkel, Shelley Thomas and Nelson Hall – Tourism Queensland.

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Calling all adventurers, road trippers and cross country travellers – this one’s for you. In this issue we celebrate epic journeys and Australia’s vast open spaces. For our cover story ‘Desert tracks’, I hopped aboard the Indian

Pacific, one of the world’s great train journeys which covers 4,352 kilometres as it travels from coast to coast across Australia, through three states and the remote expanse of the Nullarbor Desert, while Freya Owen went fossicking for precious stones to bring you ‘Treasure island’, an exploration of the jewels and gems found in this part of the world – and that’s just the opening chapter. From verdant Tassie to tropical northern Queensland, east coast beaches to west coast sunsets, within these pages you’ll find unique adventures in every state.

Ian Lloyd Neubauer goes four-wheel driving in New South Wales’ hidden gem Deua National Park. I take a chopper from Victoria’s Phillip Island to explore the serene paradise of French Island with a fourth generation local, and head out on the high seas for a dreamy weekend of sunset swims, sparkling wine and sleeping belowdecks on Tasmania’s stunning south-west coast.

Jessie Wright tests her nerve on an unforgettable adventure, cage diving with great white sharks off the coast of Port Lincoln in South Australia, Simone Ericsson gets to know the wonders on her doorstep with a trip to The Pinnacles in Western Australia, Freya Owen enjoys the views on the Northern Territory’s iconic Kings Canyon Rim Walk, and Shelley Thomas goes on a scuba dive with a difference, in search of the elusive platypus in Queensland’s sugar cane capital.

We’ve rounded up tourism experts from around the country to bring you the best offerings from every state, as well as their personal favourites. Plus we continue to bring you all the inspiration you need to plan your trip – from introductions to every capital city and tips on where to eat, drink and shop to where to get your culture fix, recommended attractions and regional escapes.

These pages are overflowing with adventures and surprises, much like this big island we call home. So dive in!

Happy trails,

CASSY POLIMENIEditor

All aboard!

destinations AUSTRALIA | 9

Heading to go here | AUSTRALIA

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Excite all your senses as our world-class chefs prepare Melbourne and Perth’s finest cuisine.*

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Desert tracks

Whether you’re an intrepid traveller or partial to a little luxury, Australia’s vast expanses are an invitation to explorers. Cassy Polimeni embarks on an unforgettable cross-continental journey

沙漠之旅

Great Australian Journeys | AUSTRALIA

One train, three nights and 4,352 kilometres across Australia. Train trips don’t get much more epic than this. Departing weekly from Sydney or Perth (with additional services from September-November), the Indian Pacific is

one of the world’s great rail journeys. It is named after the two oceans it travels between and attracts train lovers from across the globe.

At Sydney’s Central Station we enjoy a welcome drink in the lounge car before leaving the sparkling harbour city behind and making our way through Sydney’s outer suburbs to the Blue Mountains. Here, sunlight mixes with drops of blue gum essential oil released by eucalypts to give the region its unique blue haze, which has inspired artists and photographers for centuries. As the Indian Pacific weaves its way across the winding mountain track, I catch occasional glimpses of its nose through my cabin window as it rounds a bend, the setting sun glinting on corrugated steel. The only sound is a gentle hum.

The route we are travelling traces Australia’s mining history. While a skeleton rail link between the east and west coasts existed a century ago, it wasn’t until 1917 that the final 1,996 kilometre gap between Kalgoorlie in Western Australia and South Australia’s Port Augusta was bridged in an incredible feat of engineering involving two construction teams and the most basic of tools – pick, shovel, carthorse and camel. The first unbroken journey of the new Indian Pacific set off from Sydney on 23 February 1970, arriving in Perth four days later to an appreciative crowd of 10,000.


乘坐火车，三晚跨越澳大利亚 4,352 公里的疆土。任何火车之

旅都不会比这更具史诗意义。印度洋太平洋号 (Indian Pacific)

每周从悉尼或珀斯出发（九月至十一月有加班车服务），是世界

上最美丽的火车旅程之一。它以横跨的两大洋命名，吸引了全球

各地的火车爱好者纷踏而至。

在悉尼中心站 (Sydney’s Central Station)，我们可以先在

休息车厢中小酌一杯迎宾佳酿，然后动身离开这座浮光跃金的

海港城市，穿越悉尼外郊向蓝山进发。在这里，桉树释放的蓝桉

精油集结成滴，在太阳光线的照射下，为该地区披上蓝色的裙

裳，数百年来为艺术家和摄影师提供了源源不断的灵感源泉。当

印度洋太平洋号蜿蜒穿行于山间车轨时，我透过车窗偶然瞥见

了车头，当时火车正在转弯，夕阳的余晖洒落在波纹钢上。唯一

传入耳际的，就是低缓的火车轰鸣声。

沿着我们所经的路线，可以追溯澳大利亚的采矿史。虽然

连接东西部海岸的铁路主干线已经建成 100 多年了，但是直到

1971 年，西澳大利亚卡尔古利 (Kalgoorlie) 和南澳大利亚的

奥古斯塔港之间的 1,996 公里才被打通，堪称是一项工程伟绩，

有两个施工团队参与其中，更是动用了最基本的工具 - 镐、铲

子、拉货车和骆驼。1970 年 2 月 23 日，崭新的印度洋太平洋

号首次从悉尼出发，踏上一路贯通的行程，并于四天后抵达珀斯，

当时前来观看的人数就高达 10,000 人。

Somewhere between Katoomba and Lithgow the eucalypts turn a ghostly grey as the sun dips below the horizon. Kaleidoscopic sunshine breaks through the trees, casting moving patterns on the shady forest. We adjourn to the lounge for cocktails, card games and bar snacks as we await dinner in the 48-seat Queen Adelaide dining car.

The food here is something else. Local produce – from Tasmanian salmon to wild kangaroo – delicately flavoured and beautifully presented. All the more impressive when you consider that each of the three courses before you have been assembled on a moving train.

After a sensational and social meal ensconced in cosy booths chatting to other guests I retire early, weary from wine and travel. While we were at dinner the seats in our cabins have been transformed into comfortable beds, our pillows garnished with chocolates. This is the only way to travel.

There is something rhythmic and relaxing about the rocking motion of a train and I fall asleep easily and wake early without an alarm to the red earth of South Australia.

Sunrise illuminates sparse scrub, which grows denser as we near Broken Hill. Outside the station two tour buses are waiting: one bound for the silver mines; the other – which I board – is headed for the Pro Hart Gallery.

Our bus takes us past the pub where Priscilla: Queen of the Desert was filmed, and past a crumbling old church that has been reborn as a motorcycle club. This is silver mining country and Pro Hart’s hometown. The innovative artist, himself a miner, was famous for his ability to capture Australia’s rich, rugged and sometimes brutal landscape in unique ways. Pro Hart was a performance artist long before it was commonplace – dropping paint from a hot air balloon or firing it from a canon. We work our way through three floors of his iconic work, sipping mimosas as we go, before returning to the train for breakfast.

AUSTRALIA | Great Australian Journeys

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在卡通巴 (Katoomba) 和利斯戈 (Lithgow) 之间的某些地

方，夕阳落入地平线之下后，一棵棵桉树犹如灰色的幽灵般屹然

耸立。阳光如万花筒般穿过树丛，在绿荫如盖的树林间洒下斑

驳陆离的光斑。我们会前往休息厅品品鸡尾酒、玩玩纸牌和吃

点小吃点心，更可在 48 座的阿得莱德王后餐车内等待晚餐。

这里的美食也别具特色。当地土特产 - 从塔斯马尼亚鲑鱼

到野生袋鼠肉 - 口感细腻且外观精致。更加令人印象深刻的

是，您面前的三道菜均是在火车行驶途中准备的。

我坐在舒适的餐椅上一边享用令人陶醉的社交晚餐，一边

与其他旅客亲切攀谈；之后因为旅途的疲倦，加上葡萄酒的作

用，便早早上床休息了。晚餐期间，我们车厢的座位都被变成舒

适的床铺，我们的枕头上也都放上了巧克力。这就是绝无仅有

的旅行方式。

伴着火车富有节奏感的舒缓摇动，我轻松入眠，第二天自

然醒来后便看到南澳大利亚的红土地。

朝阳照亮了稀疏的灌木丛，随着我们向布罗肯希尔

(Broken Hill) 靠近，这些灌木丛也愈加稠密起来。车站外有两

辆观光巴士在等候：其中一辆开往银矿，我搭乘的另一辆则驶

往普鲁哈特美术馆 (Pro Hart Gallery)。

我们的巴士沿途经过沙漠女王普里西拉 (Priscilla:

Queen of the Desert) 的拍摄地,还有一座摩托车俱乐部是由一

座摇摇欲坠的老教堂改建而成的。这里是银矿之乡，也是普鲁

哈特的故乡。他是一名富有创意的艺术家，也是一名矿工，能

够以独特方式捕捉到澳大利亚崎岖不平且时而略显粗犷的丰

富地貌景观。早在行为艺术家尚不普遍之前，普鲁哈特就是一

名行为艺术家 - 他曾从热气球上丢撒颜料作画，也曾使用机关

炮喷射颜料作画。我们欣赏了他满满三层楼的标志性作品，边

走边小口喝着含羞草饮品，然后回到火车上享用早餐。


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MAIN IMAGE: Sunset over Lake Burragorang, Blue Mountains. THIS PAGE FROM TOP: The turndown service happens every night while passengers dine; enjoy first class service in the Outback Explorer lounge car on gold and platinum class; tuck into fresh local produce at the Queen Adelaide Restaurant dining car; the Indian Pacific at Rawlinna Station.

As we draw closer to Adelaide, the landscape changes again. Red dirt and scrub gives way to wind farms and fields of golden canola which sway hypnotically in time to the jazz standards playing in the lounge car.

Disembarking in the foodie capital I choose a tour of Adelaide Central Market led by a passionate local guide. We meet stallholders and sample their wares before finishing with an antipasto spread of meats, cheeses and olives from the market, washed down with a Barossa red. Passengers travelling on Gold and Platinum class can also opt for a trip to wine country, the beautiful Barossa itself. On the morning of our last full day on the rails I wake at dawn and watch the sky transform from orange blush to blue. The trees form silhouettes on the horizon and I study them for signs of life. Dawn and dusk are the best times for wildlife viewing and yesterday my new travelling companions witnessed western grey kangaroos grazing and emus attempting to race the train.

Today is our Nullarbor day – a 676-kilometre stretch that takes us through semi-arid, almost-treeless plains and over the longest straight stretch of rail in the world: 478 kilometres without a single curve. It’s rugged and relentless, yet mesmerising, and the Indian Pacific staff love it – to the trained eye, the view is always changing.

After breakfast we make a pit stop in Cook, perhaps the most unique experience of our journey. Once a thriving settlement, incorporating a hospital, school and swimming pool, reduced railway operation and changing technology drove most people out of town, leaving a permanent population of just four. We wander through the ghost town, past the swimming pool now overgrown with grass and the school with its boarded up windows and rickety signs, and chat with locals about life in Cook until the town’s emergency siren signals that it is time to reboard the train.

Back in the lounge car, I order a Moscow Mule and settle in for the long home stretch, on through the Nullarbor towards Kalgoorlie and onto Perth. We’ll reach the western capital by tomorrow morning.

It’s a surreal juxtaposition: travelling through some of Australia’s most remote and rugged landscapes in comfort and style, lubricated by cocktails and conversation in exquisite surrounds. Every day, in countless ways, we are reminded – there’s no journey quite like this.

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距离阿得莱德越来越近时，地貌景观又变了。没有了红土

地和灌木丛，取而代之的是风力发电厂和金黄色的油菜田，油

菜花仿佛要将人催眠似得，伴着观景车厢内的爵士经典曲目不

时摇曳。

在美食之都下车后，我选择跟随富有激情的当地导游参

观阿得莱德中心市场 (Adelaide Central Market)。我们结识了

摊贩们，品尝了他们的食品，然后就着巴萝莎红酒美美地享用

从市场上购买的肉、奶酪和橄榄。黄金和白金级车厢的乘客也

可选择前往葡萄酒之乡 - 迷人的巴萝莎一游。

在列车上的最后一天早上，我于拂晓时分醒来，欣赏天空从橙

色渐渐变成曼妙的蓝色。树木与地平线构成一副剪影，我仔细

观察树丛中是否存在生命的迹象。黎明和黄昏最适合观赏野生

动物，昨天我的旅途新伴侣看到一只西部灰袋鼠在吃草，还有

一只鹌鹑试图与火车赛跑。

今天我们到了纳拉伯 (Nullarbor) - 这片土地绵延 676 公

里，是几乎没有树木生长的半干旱平原，拥有世界上距离最长

的直距车轨：整整 478 公里都没有一个弯道。这里崎岖、粗犷，

却让人如痴如醉，就连印度洋太平洋号的员工也都爱上了这里

- 从他们的专业角度看来，沿途风景一直都在变化。

早餐后，我们在库克 (Cook) 停靠休息，这也许是我们旅

程最独特的体验。库克曾是一个繁荣的移民区，设有医院、学

校和游泳池并减少铁路运营；随着技术的不断发展，大部分人

纷纷离开这座小城，如今这里的常住人口只有四人。我们在这

座鬼城闲荡，沿途经过已经长满荒草的游泳池和破旧的学校，

并与当地人闲聊库克的生活，直到小镇的紧急鸣笛响起，提醒

我们重新登上火车。

回到休息车厢，我点了一份莫斯科骡 (Moscow Mule)，并

由此从纳拉伯向卡尔古利和珀斯进发，踏上归家的漫长旅程。

我们将于明天早晨抵达西部首府。

整个旅程给人一种超乎现实的违和感：以舒适时尚的方式

穿越澳大利亚最偏远、最崎岖不平的地貌景观，期间更可在精

美的环境中享用鸡尾酒并与人攀谈。每天，我们都会以无数种

方式被提醒，任何旅程都无法与这一旅程相媲美。


Great Australian Journeys | AUSTRALIA

On the morning of our last full day on the rails I wake early and

watch the sky transform from orange blush to blue.

AUSTRALIA | Great Australian Journeys


Rick Smolan is an award-winning American photographer whose fascination with Australia began in the mid 1970s.

“I was shooting for Time Magazine in Asia when I met [then] Prime Minister Malcolm Frasier in Japan and he invited me over as part of a Visit Australia program for journalists,” Smolan told Destinations Australia.

“When I first visited, it felt cut off from the rest of the world – this was before the Australian film industry took off – today Australia no longer feels remote.”

It fact, it was the human fascination with remote places that led Smolan to one of the most transformative assignments of his career – shadowing 26-year-old Robyn Davidson as she trekked solo for 2700 kilometres from Alice Springs to the Indian Ocean, with only four camels and her dog, Diggity, for company. Smolan dropped in on Davidson five times during her journey to document it for National Geographic, and says the experience changed the way he saw the desert.

“Robyn loved the outback, [she] thought it was magically beautiful. As a big city kid from New York I couldn’t understand what she saw: to me it was dry and ugly, simply an exotic background for my photos of her. But as I started to see the desert through her eyes my photos began to change. The intensity and colour of the light in the outback was unlike anything I had experienced. It was as if I’d been wearing sunglasses my entire life and had suddenly taken them off.”

Davidson’s journey inspired her novel, Tracks, which was first published in 1980. In 2014, her story was recreated for

the screen in a film of the same name starring Mia Wasikowska and produced by the team behind The King’s Speech. Smolan’s new book, Making Tracks, brings together images from the original journey and the recent film side by side in living colour.

While compiling the book, Smolan couldn’t help but reflect on his part in the journey as a 28-year-old ‘fledgling photographer’ along for the ride.

“I was pretty naive in terms of my own safety,” he says. “Robyn spent two years learning how to survive in the desert; I hadn’t even been a boy scout and could barely change a tyre. If my car had broken down out there I probably would have died. But I was born under a lucky star. I can only recall one time that my car wouldn’t start; I managed to wriggle the spark plugs and that did it!

“The juxtaposition of the silence and solitude with civilisation when I flew back and forth on those trips was jarring. I love being alone, but never to the degree that Robyn did.”

Robyn Davidson’s desert trek was an incredible feat in the 1970s when the predominant roles for women were that of wife and mother, rather than explorer – but is perhaps even more mind boggling to contemplate now, when such a journey would be almost impossible. Today it is far more difficult to get lost, and Smolan feels we are missing out.

“It’s almost illegal now to go off the grid the way Robyn did back then before GPS and cell phones and internet and satellite surveillance,” he says. “I think this age of ‘constant partial attention’ where no one is ever where they are but always partially somewhere else, distracted with their devices, is a great loss to civilisation.” DA

MAKING TRACKS with Rick Smolan

RRP $49.95 | hardiegrant.com.au

AVAILABLE NOW

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In the city and surrounds, canvas some of Australia’s most inspiring performances,

celebrated artworks and artist-run initiatives

Creative thinking

GALLERIES Art Gallery NSW Home to significant collections of Australian, Australian Aboriginal, Asian and international art, Art Gallery NSW showcases around 40 exhibitions and permanent displays each year. Yiribana, an indigenous art and sculpture exhibit, is one of the many permanent displays on offer, or check out the Archibald Prize finalists and winner between March and May. Open daily (closed Good Friday, Christmas Day).artgallery.nsw.gov.au

Aquabumps GalleryPopular beach photographer Eugene Tan is renowned for his web exhibitions and has a gallery space at Bondi showcasing the best of his surf, sand and sunrise snaps from all over the world. aquabumps.com.au

Museum of Contemporary Art Located in a striking 20th century art deco building at Circular Quay, this museum is dedicated to exhibiting, interpreting and collecting local and international contemporary art, with exhibitions from the multicultural and ecological to indigenous and abstract. Open daily (closed Christmas Day). mca.com.au

Brett Whiteley StudioRun by Art Gallery NSW, this was originally the workplace and home of the late Brett Whiteley.

It offers an insight into his paintings, drawings, sculptures, unfinished works, equipment, photographs and sketchbooks, with Brett’s private music collection playing in the background. Open Friday to Sunday in Surry Hills.brettwhiteley.org

MUSEUMSAustralian MuseumThis is Australia’s oldest museum and contains a vast collection of artefacts that document our anthropological and natural history. Don’t miss the extensive indigenous gallery. The museum also regularly hosts international exhibitions. Open daily (closed Christmas Day).australianmuseum.net.au

Powerhouse MuseumFrom design, art, fashion and science, to transport, space and history, discover over 400,000 objects that have been collected over 125 years in an eclectic, child-friendly range of exhibitions. The museum also has a public forecourt, street-side cafe and gift shop plus a gallery for international exhibitions. Open daily (closed Christmas Day). powerhousemuseum.com

Australian National Maritime MuseumBeneath an undulating roof reminiscent of waves and sails, this fascinating museum explores our maritime past, war and peacetime defences, boat building workshops, conservation



Arts & Culture | NEW SOUTH WALES

OUT AND ABOUT

and more. It contains one of the largest fleets of any museum in the world, including the former Navy destroyer HMAS Vampire, former Navy submarine HMAS Onslow and a full scale replica of Captain Cook’s ship the HMB Endeavour. Open daily (except for Christmas Day). anmm.gov.au

Sydney ObservatorySit in on fascinating lectures in the beanbag planetarium, participate in daily and nightly celestial viewings through telescopes, visit the virtual reality 3D space theatre, or launch a rocket at a school holiday workshop. Open daily (closed Good Friday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day). Night tours Monday to Saturday. sydneyobservatory.com.au

PERFORMING ARTSSydney Opera HouseOne of the world’s most iconic and debated architectural marvels, the Sydney Opera House is a potent focal point for modern Australian culture, and home to some of the country’s best performance companies, orchestras and theatres. Watching a performance at the Sydney Opera House is a quintessential Australian experience, and there is something for everyone with more than 2,200 performances each year. sydneyoperahouse.com

Indigenous dance and musicArguably the country’s most famous indigenous dance company, the Bangarra Dance Theatre stages productions throughout the year that explore contemporary Aboriginal society in Australia (bangarra.com.au). Dance theatre company Descendance preserves and promotes Australian Aboriginal culture through traditional and contemporary dance and music (descendance.com.au).

Iconic Sydney venuesThe Capitol Theatre is an opulent venue for world-class musicals, opera and contemporary and classical music (capitoltheatre.com.au). Catch a performance at the Belvoir Street Theatre’s greatly loved Upstairs and Downstairs stages, the artistic playground of many Australia’s greatest acting talent, including Geoffrey Rush and Cate Blanchett (belvoir.com.au). The Vanguard is an intimate live music venue, bar and restaurant with a 1920s vibe (thevanguard.com.au). Visit Slide Lounge for dinner and make sure you catch a performance by the industry’s finest cabaret talent while you’re there (slide.com.au).

A Tribal Warrior Aboriginal Cultural Cruise offers an interpretation of Sydney Harbour’s history through Aboriginal eyes (tribalwarrior.org).

Nature buffs can take an Aboriginal Heritage Tour of the Royal Botanic Gardens, which highlights the rich history of the Gadigal people, lets you taste bush tucker and explains traditional uses of plants (rbgsyd.nsw.gov.au).

During May and June each year, Vivid Sydney is an annual event that uses Sydney as a canvas for light installations, music and creative ideas (vividsydney.com).

During spring and summer, Art & About transforms the city into a giant canvas of outdoor art and performance (artandabout.com.au), and the Walsh Bay Sculpture Walk offers a number of eye-catching artworks that can be viewed along the historic wharves (walshbaysydney.com.au).

CREATIVE NEIGHBOURHOODSJust four kilometres from the CBD is Newtown, a creative district brimming with galleries and artist-run initiatives. The former Eveleigh Rail Yards have been transformed into one of Sydney’s most creative venues, CarriageWorks, for performance and visual arts (carriageworks.com.au). The performing arts are alive and well at The Seymour Centre and the Factory Theatre, while local and international music acts and festivals frequent the Enmore Theatre (enmoretheatre.com.au).

Take a walk through industrial Waterloo, where old buildings have been reborn as art galleries, studios, fashion and antique outlets, and more. At Pyd, you’ll find an exhibition space and 12 design and interior outlets (pyd.com.au), while the creative complex 2 Danks Street (2danksstreet.com.au) showcases Australian and international contemporary art and has an award-winning cafe and bar.

The suburb of Parramatta is another hotbed of performance spaces, studios and art groups. The Riverside Theatre is one of the city’s finest performing arts venues (riversideparramatta.com.au). MAIN IMAGE: Hyeseoung Kwon in the Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour production of Madame Butterfly in 2014.


NEW SOUTH WALES | Attractions

Action packed

From world-class zoos to iconic sporting venues, these top attractions offer once in a lifetime experiences for all the family

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Attractions | NEW SOUTH WALES


SEA LIFE SYDNEY AQUARIUM This impressive attraction houses over 12,000 animals in 60 tanks and three oceanariums, including all manner of diverse underwater creatures. Visit the new Dugong Island to see Pig and Wuru, the only pair of dugongs on display in the world. Dive into the Southern Ocean to discover a vast world of sharks, penguins, stingrays and the fascinating seahorse. Be transported to the coral atolls of the Great Barrier Reef, where you’ll find an abundance of tropical fish, giant turtles and many other underwater delights. Adventurous types can try a Shark Reef snorkel experience, or join the daily glass bottomed boat shark feed. sydneyaquarium.com.au

TREETOP SAFARITrek through the treetops of a rare forest and glide along a 360 metre flying fox – the longest on mainland Australia – at Sydney’s TreeTop Safari. Set in the critically endangered Cumberland Plain Woodlands in the Western Sydney Parklands, the safari features a series of elevated suspension bridges and flying foxes, at some stages reaching four storeys above the forest floor, with views to the Sydney CBD and beyond. The safari takes about two hours and includes a guided tour that gets you up close and personal with some of the rare native flora and fauna. treetopadventurepark.com.au

TARONGA ZOOTake the ferry, train or bus to one of the world’s most loved zoos, with panoramic views of Sydney Harbour. Home to over 4,000 animals from more than 350 species, meet the elephants, check out the gorillas and chimpanzees in their jungle settings, and come face to face with snow leopards, giraffes, crocodiles and slithering types in the Reptile House. Keeper talks on big cats, elephants, spiders, little penguins and more will fascinate. Book an Animal Encounter to get acquainted with a koala, giraffe, penguin or owl. View the zoo from above on the Wild Ropes adventure course. For the wildest slumber party in town, stay the night as part of the Roar and Snore program. Open daily (including Christmas Day). taronga.org.au

WILD LIFE SYDNEY ZOOLocated in the heart of Darling Harbour, WILD LIFE Sydney Zoo features three levels of more than 65 fascinating animal exhibits including a beautiful butterfly enclosure, saltwater crocodiles, a replica of Kakadu Gorge and the ever-popular koala sanctuary. The WILD Discovery Zone lets children touch Australian animal artefacts including crocodile skin and echidna bones, participate in child-friendly craft activities and peer through microscopes to get a closer look at what makes Australian animals unique. Walk through the rainforest exhibit to discover some of the world’s most dangerous birds and experience the nocturnal world of bilbies, quolls and the unique sugar glider. wildlifesydney.com.au

LUNA PARKAn iconic fixture on the harbour since the 1930s, Luna Park has been delighting visitors with its amusements and sideshow alley, and churning stomachs with its hair-raising rides for generations. Classic rides include the Wild Mouse, Dodgem City, Rotor and Ferris Wheel, and Coney Island still retains its original charm. Get your thrills on the speedy Tango Train, while younger kids will love Maloneys Corner’s Whirly Wheel, Space Shuttle and Magic Castle. As you wander around, enjoy classic carnival food – from fairy floss to hot dogs.lunaparksydney.com

SYDNEY OLYMPIC PARKJust a 50-minute ferry trip from Circular Quay, this major sports and entertainment venue has extensive parklands that are perfect for family picnics and outdoor activities. Other highlights include the Aquatic Centre, Golf Centre and Trail Walking Park. Children will love the Monster BMX track, with 300 metres of dirt jumps and bends, and the world-class Monster Mountain X arena. Thrill seekers can try out the Urban Jungle Adventure Park, a high ropes course in the trees, while all family members will enjoy a behind-the-scenes tour of ANZ Stadium, where big concerts and sporting matches take place. sydneyolympicpark.com.au OPPOSITE PAGE: A giraffe flanked by city views at Taronga Zoo.

WonderlandIt can take some time to discover the Melbourne locals know and love

but once you head down that rabbit hole, we guarantee you’ll be hooked

Nestled beside the Yarra River and around Port Phillip Bay, Melbourne is laid out like a checkerboard, with its neat grid of streets harbouring shopping, dining and entertainment treasures just waiting for you to discover

them. This city is an art lover’s paradise, with cutting edge arts and cultural companies and galleries galore. Get lost in the world’s first major public gallery dedicated to Australian art, the Ian Potter Centre, or experience art outdoors at Linden Arts Centre, Heide Museum of Modern Art or Herring Island. For indigenous art, check out the galleries in Flinders Lane.

Melbourne is a coffee lover’s paradise and there’s always something brewing. Head to St Ali in Melbourne’s north or south (Carlton and South Melbourne), where coffee is roasted on site and served up as you like it: single origin espresso, siphon or cold drip. Also worth a visit are Seven Seeds, a micro roaster which supplies beans to a number of cafes around town and has been called the best coffee in Melbourne (sevenseeds.com.au) and hole-in-the-wall Sensory Lab in Little Collins Street behind David Jones (sensorylab.com.au).

Melburnians are passionate sports fans. Whatever gives you the fever, you’re sure to find it here. AFL football (“footy”) is the city’s unofficial religion, and taking in a match at the MCG is a quintessential Melbourne experience. In summer, the cricket whites come out and Grand Slam tennis enjoys its time in the spotlight with the arrival of the Australian Open in January. Come Autumn it’s all about Formula One car racing, while Spring is horseracing season.

Head to the ‘Paris’ end of Collins Street, as well Bourke Street Mall and laneway arcades in Hardware Lane, Howey Place and Block Arcade for a shopping experiences tailored to every taste, from stylish boutiques showcasing local designers to sprawling department stores and international favourites.

Connect with Melbourne’s history in cobblestoned laneways, which are now home to quirky cafes and gift shops, cosy bookstores and secret bars. You won’t be short of entertainment options in this town, with a rolling calendar of over 50 festivals – that’s one for every week of the year! – celebrating food, wine, film, theatre, arts and music. For more on Melbourne’s festival scene, visit the ‘Events’ page of thatsmelbourne.com.au. DA

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Melbourne | VICTORIA

Wonderland XAM8AM

5PM 8.30PM

12PM

1 Leave your vertigo at the door and head 88 floors up to the Eureka Skydeck

for unbeatable views from the southern hemisphere’s highest viewing platform (eurekaskydeck.com.au).

2 Experience the majesty of Melbourne from the water on a kayak tour

(kayakmelbourne.com.au).

3 Take in an Aussie Rules footy match at the hallowed Melbourne Cricket

Ground (MCG), or take a tour to relive some of the great sporting moments that have taken place here (mcg.org.au).

4 Enjoy a three-course dinner on the Colonial Tramcar Restaurant, a roving

dining hall (tramrestaurant.com.au).

5 Go bar hopping in Melbourne’s laneways and see a different side of the city.

There are dozens to choose from, but we recommend Robot Bar, which oozes Tokyo cool, kitschy Double Happiness with its Communist propaganda posters and divine lychee martinis and social enterprise Shebeen, where the tunes are hot, the beer is cold and all profits go to the developing world.

8AM Start your day as the locals do with a walk or jog around the iconic Tan Track that encircles Melbourne’s Royal Botanic Gardens (rbgv.vic.gov.au).

10AM Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head into the gardens themselves and reward yourself with brunch at Shannon Bennett’s Jardin Tan, a French-Vietnamese fusion treat (jardintan.com.au).

12PM Check out a touring exhibition or browse the NGV’s permanent collection. When you need a break, treat yourself to lunch at the casual Gallery Kitchen or classy Persimmon on the ground floor. Then cross the river to Federation Square – art buffs will love the all-Australian Ian Potter Centre, while film geeks will feel right at home at the Australian Centre for the Moving Image (ACMI).

5PM Toast marvellous Melbourne from on high at the Rooftop Bar at Curtain House (rooftopcinema.com.au). When you’re done, head downstairs to quirky Cookie where the memorable Thai menu never disappoints.

8.30PM It’s too early too go home but you’re too tired to move – fear not! You can wrap up your evening without leaving Curtain House. Simply brave one more flight of stairs and you’ll stumble into The Toff In Town. Turn left for food or cocktails in an intimate booth, or right to enjoy an ever-changing program of live music, theatre, comedy and DJ sets in the stage room.


VICTORIA | Shopping

Meander through Melbourne’s cobblestoned laneways, duck into historic arcades and discover local designers as you soak up the charm of this iconic city

Laneway love affairLaneway love affairLaneway love affairLaneway Laneway love affair

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CITY LANEWAYSMelbourne’s iconic cobble-stoned laneways are a unique shopping experience. Explore quirky boutiques and peruse galleries showcasing local and designer fashion, before putting your feet up at one of the popular hole-in-the-wall bars or cafes.

MELBOURNE EMPORIUMDiscover the largest Australian designer precinct in the country, together with a fantastic fusion of food outlets, arts, culture and world class architecture, all under one roof at Melbourne Emporium. It’s the ultimate retail experience. Nestled right in the heart of the city, the precinct connects with Melbourne Central, Myer and David Jones (emporiummelbourne.com.au).

ARCADES Discover a plethora of specialty stores in the National Trust-listed Block Arcade including jewellers, chocolatiers and the famous Hopetoun Tearooms, which have been operating at the same site since 1907 (282 Collins Street, theblockarcade.com.au).

Linking Bourke Street Mall with Elizabeth Street, historic Royal Arcade boasts myriad delights, including jewellery, footwear and sweet treats. Cathedral Arcade, which connects Swanston Street to Flinders Lane, is great for handmade clothing, jewellery and accessories.

CITY MALLSThe car-free stretch of Bourke Street Mall between Elizabeth and Swanston Streets is home to major department stores David Jones and Myer, along with a huge range of boutique shopping. At the western end sits the GPO, a former post office building turned high-end retail complex boasting fashion superstore H&M, and Larsen Jewellery. On the corner of Swanston and Latrobe Streets, you’ll find Melbourne Central, a popular shopping, eating and entertaining destination.

CHAPEL STREETIconic Chapel Street is renowned for its designer and local fashion stores. Each section of the strip has its own flavour. The stretch from Toorak Road to Malvern Road features high-end designer boutiques such as local designer Gorman (248 Chapel Street, Prahran), mainstream brands and the Jam Factory cinema and entertainment complex (500 Chapel Street, South Yarra), while the ‘Windsor end’, from Malvern Road to Dandenong Road is home to a more eclectic mix of vintage stores, young designers and quirky cafes. Be sure to check out iconic local fashion at Dorothy and Evelyn (81A Chapel Street, Windsor) and Fat (272 Chapel Street, Windsor).

FITZROYFive minutes north of the CBD you’ll find funky shopping destination, Fitzroy. Brunswick, Gertrude and Smith Streets are overflowing with an eccentric mix of designer homewares, vintage fashion and quirky galleries.

Visit Shag (377 Brunswick Street) for fabulous vintage fashion, specialty cookbook store Books for Cooks (233 Gertrude Street) or pick up a gift at design store About Space (179 Gertrude Street). On weekends, check out the Rose Street Artist’s Market for handmade accessories and artwork (rosestmarket.com.au).

CHADSTONE: THE FASHION CAPITAL Chadstone is the biggest retail centre in the Southern hemisphere and your one-stop shop for all your fashion, food and entertainment needs. The spectacular Luxury Precinct boasts names like Chanel, Alannah Hill and Marcs. The centre also encompasses David Jones, Myer, entertainment and food precincts. Take the free Fashion Shuttle from Federation Square in the CBD (visit chadstoneshopping.com.au for timetables). If you live more than 50 kilometres away, collect your free Visitor Passport, which entitles you to up to 30 per cent off at many of Chadstone’s eclectic stores (chadstoneshopping.com.au).

Shopping | VICTORIA


蜿蜒穿行于墨尔本的鹅卵石小路上，深入历史悠久的拱廊街探索，一边感受这座经典名城的迷人魅力，一边探访当地设计师商店。

大街小巷恋爱故事

维多利亚 | 购物

未曾改变（地址：282 Collins Street，theblockarcade.com.au）。

历史悠久的皇家拱廊 (Royal Arcade) 连接伯克街商场(Bourke Street Mall) 和伊丽莎白街 (Elizabeth Street) 更云集各类精美商品，包

括珠宝、鞋履和甜点店。教堂拱廊 (Cathedral Arcade) 连接斯旺斯顿

街 (Swanston Street) 和费林德斯街 (Flinders Lane)，是购买手工制作的服

装、珠宝和配饰的理想去处。

城市购物商场伊丽莎白街和史旺斯敦街之间有一段

步行街区 - 伯克街商场 (Bourke Street Mall)，商场内设有大型百货商场戴维·琼斯 (David Jones) 和玛雅 (Myer)，更有

大量精品购物场所。GPO 坐落在西区，

是由老邮局建筑改建的高端零售中心，

内开设有时尚服饰连锁店 H&M 和拉森

珠宝 (Larsen Jewellery)。在史旺斯敦

街和拉特罗布街的转角处，您就能找到

墨尔本中心 (Melbourne Central)，这

座时尚中心汇集购物、餐饮、娱乐为一

体，成为另一处目标景点。

教堂街 (CHAPEL STREET)地标式的教堂街以汇集设计师品牌和

当地时装店而闻名遐迩。每一段街区

都有其独特的风味。图拉克路 (Toorak Road) 至马尔文路 (Malvern Road) 一段设有众多高端设计师精品店，如当

地设计师品牌店戈曼 (Gorman) (248 Chapel Street，Prahran)、主流品牌、果

酱工厂 (Jam Factory) 电影院和娱乐中

心 (500 Chapel Street, South Yarra)，而马尔文路至丹顿路 (Dandenong Road) 一段则汇集更多古玩店、年轻

设计师店以及一些标新立异的咖啡

馆。别忘了到多萝西 (Dorothy)、伊

芙琳 (Evelyn)（81A Chapel Street, Windsor）和法特（272 Chapel Street, Windsor）游览一番，这里有独具一格的

当地设计师品牌店。

菲茨罗伊 (FITZROY)从中央商务区向北五分钟，即可找到充

满时尚气息的购物场所 - 菲茨罗伊。

布朗斯威克 (Brunswick)、格特鲁德 (Gertrude) 和史密斯街 (Smith Streets) 上云集许多稀奇独特的设计师家居用

品、复古时装和独树一帜的美术馆。您

可以前往夏格 (Shag) (377 Brunswick Street) 选购精美的复古时装，前往专

业烹饪图书商店大厨书坊 (Books for Cooks) (233 Gertrude Street) 闲逛，

抑或在设计商店“空间”(About Space) (179 Gertrude Street) 挑选礼品。每逢

周末，不妨到玫瑰街艺术家市场 (Rose Street Artist’s Market) 淘一淘手工配

饰和艺术品 (rosetmarket.com.au)。

查斯顿购物中心 (CHADSTONE)：时尚之都查斯顿购物中心是南半球最大的零售

中心，可以一站式地满足您对时尚、美

食和娱乐的所有需求。引人注目的奢

华区 (Luxury Precinct) 内汇集各大

知名品牌，如 Chanel、Alannah Hill 和 Marcs。购物中心还包含戴维·琼斯 (David Jones)、玛雅 (Myer)、娱乐和

美食区。您可以在中央商务区的联邦广

场 (Federation Square) 搭乘免费的时

尚穿梭巴士（如需了解时间表，请访问 chadstoneshopping.com.au）。如果您

住在购物中心方圆 50 公里之外，可以领

取免费的游客通行证，凭借通行证可在

查斯顿的众多别具一格的商店享受七折

优惠 (chadstoneshopping.com.au)。

城市街道墨尔本标志性的鹅卵石街道堪称一种

独特的购物体验。探索标新立异的精品

店，细看展示当地和设计师时装的艺

廊，然后前往众多倍受欢迎的迷你酒

吧或咖啡馆之一放松休闲。

墨尔本商场 (MELBOURNE EMPORIUM)您可在墨尔本商场探索澳大利亚最大

的设计师品牌街区，更有各类美食摊

位、艺术、文化和世界级建筑等您来体

验。这里必将为您带来极致的购物体

验。该区域位于市中心，巧妙连接墨尔本中心 (Melbourne Central)、玛雅商场 (Myer) 和戴维·琼斯商场 (David Jones)。emporiummelbourne.com.au

拱廊商场在列入国家文物信托基金会

的拱廊商场探索各类专

卖店，包括珠宝店、

巧克力店和闻名

遐迩的霍普顿茶

室 (HopeToun Tearoom),该茶室自 1907 年一直运营

至今，营业

地点也一直

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Melbourne Perth

STAY IN THE MOMENT

Escape to the award winning Crown Metropol and enjoy an unparalleled luxury hotel experience. Situated in Melbourne and Perth, each modern getaway ensures unmistakably stylish accommodation, spectacular

city views and world-class entertainment. It’s an urban sanctuary that awaits you at Crown Metropol.


TASMANIA | Insider

Guy Taylor worked for Tasmanian icons such as Blundstone and Boags before landing the job of Executive Director of Marketing at Tourism Tasmania. He loves the wealth of big experiences found on this little island

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I was born in Manly District Hospital on North Head, NSW, a place that’s a little like an island which is probably why I feel very comfortable living on another island. My family moved to Tassie when I was eleven, thank God. That was, ahem, a while ago …

One of the principal reasons I wanted the role at Tourism Tasmania was because of the quality of the people, both within the organisation and on the island

itself. We tend to wear our culture on our sleeve down here, and that creates some fascinating experiences.

I’ll let you in on a little known fact about Tasmania, on the island a minute lasts 93 seconds. My perfect day in Tassie would start with a drive to Pirates Bay, a mythic drive for car nuts like myself. I’d board the charter boat, Pauletta, steam to the tuna fishing grounds, do a spot of killer whale watching – maybe even

see one snatch a seal off the Tasman Island rocks for lunch – sashimi the Bluefin I catch, have a Moo Brew Hefeweizen and laugh as I shake my head in disbelief that I’m 60 minutes from a capital city and yet the next stop south is the Antarctic.

Asking where the best coffee spot in Tasmania is like asking for the best wine in Bordeaux – and I’m a card-carrying coffee snob to boot. I’m a big fan of Infuse in Burnie (infusecoffee.com.au). Pilgrim in

HOBART INSIDER

Guy Taylor


Insider | TASMANIA

Hobart has an awesome caramelly blend with a sharp finish (48 Argyle Street, Hobart) and the Picnic Basket (176 Channel Highway, Taroona), Tricycle (77 Salamanca Place, Kellys Steps) and Providence (42 Newdegate Street, North Hobart) take faultless to entirely new levels.

I spent last year telling people that if they were in Hobart they should drop into Fellow Bernard. Last month one of their baristas quietly pointed out the name is actually

‘Yellow’ Bernard (yellowbernard.com). Yellow, Fellow, whatever, their pours are ludicrously good. An honorable mention goes to Breadd in Kingston (breadd.com.au) – yes, this time I got the name right … seriously though, what’s with the extra ‘d’?

I visited Garagistes for the first time only recently – now I understand why people rave about it, (garagistes.com.au).

Void bar at Mona has an international space-lounge feel, as if you’re about to depart for the future and the past at the same time (mona.net.au). The Bay of Fires is hands down my favourite outdoor spot in Tasmania. It was named the world’s hottest travel destination by Lonely Planet. End of story.

The Odeon is an iconic venue. It was built in 1916 to replicate New York’s Strand Theatre, (167 Liverpool Street, Hobart). I saw

[Seattle drone mental band] Sunn O))), [cult American kids’ TV show] Yo Gabba Gabba which stars live puppets and [hardcore rockers] The Bronx at the Odeon and whoa, that place smashes it. This was not all on the same night thankfully, but over the course of the boundary-bending Dark MOFO Festival in winter (darkmofo.net.au). Watching Sunn O))) I thought the walls might de-laminate. There was so much

smoke and the earth-shattering volume and regulation A-grade earplugs that were a prerequisite to admission prevented normal conversation, so I was exchanging texts with a friend sitting beside me. Thirty-five minutes into the gig I texted that I still hadn’t caught sight of the band due to the impenetrable curtain of dry-ice. He texted back, ‘They haven’t arrived yet’. Dark MOFO is Tassie at its best. Whilst it’s a time of year, it’s also very much a state of mind. Dark MOFO – those guys own winter.

We get some truly groundbreaking theatre in Tasmania. Vandemonium Lags at Australia’s oldest theatre, the Theatre Royal, absolutely knocked it out of the park. It was inspired by Tasmania’s convict records and included performances from the likes of Darren Hanlon, Jeff Lang and Brian Nankervis. [You Am I frontman] Tim Rogers was the MC and my wife said she couldn’t work out why girls got so excited by him, then he started to sing …

One touristy thing I’d love to do is stay at the Pavillions at MONA, (655 Main Road, Berriedale, Glenorchy). Stylish, high-tech luxury accommodation on the River Derwent named after Australian artists and architects with wireless touch panels to control climate and entertainment and access to a gym, sauna and heated infinity pool. Should I repeat that? I’d like to stay at the Pavillions at MONA. Does Destinations Australia go to MONA? Can they hear me out there? Hello?

If I was entertaining visitors from out of town I’d probably introduce them to some beloved locals to help them get a feel for the place, Greg Duncan from Wall in the Wilderness, for example (thewalltasmania.com). The experiences here are as much about people as they are about places.

Tasmania is… geographically, historically, culturally, literally different. DA

THIS PAGE: Pirate Bay, Tasmania. OPPOSITE PAGE: Approaching Mona by ferry.

We tend to wear our culture on our sleeve down here, and that creates some fascinating experiences.


TASMANIA | Experience

SouthwestMuch of Tasmania’s heritage listed wilderness is so remote it can only be reached by sea or air. Cassy Polimeni sets sail in the wild southwest

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Experience | TASMANIA

Southwest

The saying goes that in Port Davey there is no time, only seasons, and today it feels true. It’s almost impossible to believe that only this morning I was driving down busy

Melbourne freeways in the dark en route to the airport and now I’m anchored in a picturesque cove known only to sailors, relaxing on deck with a glass of local pinot and swapping stories with the crew of Helsal IV, who already feel like old friends.

A short seaplane flight from Hobart Waterfront has deposited us in true explorer territory. Southwest Tasmania has long been the domain of hardy travellers, tough local stock like Deny King, who lived here in the early 1900s. Dubbed “king of the wilderness”, Deny was a tin miner, painter and environmentalist who built his own airstrip in nearby Melaleuca, and whose botanic discoveries led to a species of Tasmanian flora being named after him. He also sailed some of Australia’s most treacherous coastline and remains respected by local sailors.

Helsal’s crew today are owner, Mark, young skipper Luke, our cook (and talented photographer) Jimmy, and Pete, an ex-school principal and fountain of local knowledge. They have been at sea for two weeks when we arrive, and regale us with tales of dreamy days made up of hiking, swimming, fishing and chasing sunsets.

We’ve joined them in Bathurst Harbour near the Celery Tops, so named for their appearance from the air. After downing a few refreshments on Helsal we take a dinghy to Forest Lagoon to explore the original home of two other local legends, Deny’s sister Win and her husband Clyde – southwest Tassie’s original power couple. These days the rundown house serves as shelter for hikers and kayakers who can opt to stay for a night or two.

Back on board I get my first lesson in steering a 60-foot yacht – in The Narrows, of all places – a slim stretch of water that connects Bathurst Harbour to wild Port Davey. It’s a little like driving a car, only the wheel is bigger, the traffic sparser, the scenery infinitely more stunning.

Once we’ve dropped anchor for the night, Pete takes us back out in the dinghy for a tour of Port Davey. Our neighbours – two international pilots on sabbatical – invite us aboard for wine and snacks until Jimmy’s voice crackles over their radio, calling us back for dinner.

Afterwards we kick back on deck and watch the spectacular orange sunset make way for a star spattered sky as we swap stories and sea sickness remedies. The pilots have us worried but our fears turn out to be in vain as the next day the notorious southwest passage is the calmest

our crew have ever seen it. We rise early from private cabins to the sound of the anchor being hauled up from the deep and stumble sleepily on deck in a Phenergan haze to watch the sun rise and dolphins at play as we make our way into open water – it’s magical.

Our time at sea disappears in all sorts of ways – relaxing on deck, reading from the yacht’s library, climbing into the dinghy to explore the local riverways or reach bushwalking spots. Spotting dolphins, seals and even whales in season. Kayaking. Bird watching. With no phone or internet reception my mobile becomes an innocuous black box useful only for capturing photos of perfect sunsets, eventually I turn it off. That’s when I know I’ve escaped.

Rodriguez’s ‘Sugarman’ is on high rotation on deck and becomes an unofficial anthem for the trip. I catch myself humming it now and then as I soak up the scenery, which for now is made up of vast blue stretching all the way to the horizon, punctuated by mountain ranges on either side. Pete points out that these spectacular landscapes are exactly as they were when Captain Cook first sailed here – in rugged southwest Tasmania nothing has changed, which is part of what makes it so special.

As day two draws to a close we drop anchor in Deep Hole, Southport, and head ashore in the dinghy to powdery white sand beaches studded with tiny shells, with clear blue water lapping at their shores. In February it is just warm enough for a quick dip before Jimmy joins us on shore with strawberries, Tasmanian sparkling and Bruny Island cheeses in tow.

Tomorrow we’ll sail across the D’Entrecasteaux Channel and arrive in Hobart, but for now we savour Southport – toasting one another and this magical island, scrambling over driftwood and taking pictures of sea creatures before enjoying another starlit dinner on deck. Those of us who are new to this lark can’t help but wonder what it would be like to live this life for a little longer. Maybe forever. DA

Flights from Hobart Waterfront to Port Davey are one hour each way, and can be booked with Tasmanian Air Adventures (tasmanianairadventures.com.au).Stay on board Helsal IV overnight or for up

to a week in double cabins with en suites and all meals and drinks provided. For more information and pricing, contact Hobart Yachts (hobartyachts.com.au).

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SOUTH AUSTRALIA | Food & Wine

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World-class wineries, tempting local produce and fantastic paddock-to-plate experiences all have a home in South Australia

ORANAWith a name that means ‘welcome’, Orana celebrates Australian ingredients and has quickly become one of Adelaide’s most popular fine dining experiences. Located on Rundle Street in the city, the intimate restaurant seats just 25, and treats diners to mouthwatering dishes created from ingredients foraged in the local area – from the hills, to the coast as well as urban enclaves. An inspired menu includes unexpected delights like sorbet made with green ants and pipis served with a sea blight juice. Experience something unforgettable.285 Rundle Street, Adelaide (08) 8232 3444restaurantorana.com

AUGEAuge (pronounced OW-je) is an Adelaide institution with a reputation for serving the best in gourmet Italian food. Choose from a casual Italian meal at the Spuntini Bar (‘spuntini’ is Italian for snack) or a top-notch experience in the elegant dining room. Start with Italian classics like marsala chicken liver pate or grilled eggplant and zucchini with white bean dip and grilled house bread, then settle in for slow braised beef cheek or pan roasted spatchcock with chat potatoes and heirloom vegetables. The menu is a reflection of the seasons, with top quality produce sourced from local growers. It’s accompanied by an evolving wine list including biodynamic and organic wines, a substantial cocktail menu and sensational desserts. 22 Grote Street, Adelaide(08) 8410 9332auge.com.au

MEMORABLE MEAL

GOURMET CLASSIC

LOCAL LEGEND

GINGER’S COFFEE STUDIOWith a laidback, retro vibe and attentive staff, Ginger’s Coffee Studio is heaven for hungry diners. Kick your day off with a hearty breakfast from their classic menu or build your own bespoke breakfast with your choice of unlimited sides. For lunch you can’t go past one of Ginger’s trademark burgers (choose from beef or lentil and chickpea patties) and a bucket of fries with garlic aioli. Ginger’s Raw Salad will suit those with lighter tastes. Or pop in any time to enjoy the robust coffee and friendly vibe. 109a Goodwood Road, Goodwood(08) 7073 2361gingerscoffeestudio.com.au


Food & Wine | SOUTH AUSTRALIA

UDABERRIVoted Best Bar in South Australia for two years running at the Australian Bar Awards, Udaberri has set the standard high for Adelaide’s flourishing small bar scene. The Spanish inspired watering hole specialises in pinxtos (Basque-style tapas) and specialty beers from across the globe. Udaberri boasts an impressive cocktail list, with the espresso martini being a standout. Tucked away on popular Leigh Street, Udaberri thrives on Friday and Saturday nights and with the addition of an adjacent laneway bar, it’s one of Adelaide’s hottest venues.11-13 Leigh St, Adelaide SA 5000(08) 8410 5733udaberri.com.au

BOUTIQUE BAR

EST PIZZERIAServing up unpretentious but stylish pizza, homemade gnocchi and polenta, Est is fast becoming an Adelaide favourite. The huge woodfire oven is the heart and soul of the place, pumping out mouthwatering pizzas with simple but delicious toppings such as broccoli, garlic, roast chilli and anchovies, or potato, gorgonzola, sage and parmesan. Service is warm and attentive, and the staff are self-professed beer nerds. The well-stocked beer fridge and extensive wine list are a testament to their knowledge – be sure to seek their advice when matching drinks with your pizza.30 East Terrace, Adelaide (08) 8359 272estpizzeria.com.au

MOTHER VINEWith a 300-strong wine list showcasing the best independent winemakers in Australia and overseas, Mother Vine is a welcome addition to Rundle Street’s East End. The food here is simple and rustic, including tempting cheeseboards and platters, as well as heartier dishes such as duck leg confit or beef, saffron and date tagine. Pair your fare with something from the stellar wine list, which has a focus on French, Italian and Spanish as well as local drops. Eat, drink and be merry at this welcoming wine hub.22-26 Vardon Lane, Adelaide (08) 8227 2273mothervine.com.au

MAYURA STATION’S TASTING ROOMMayura Station’s 1,130-strong herd of full-blood Wagyu cattle is raised on 6,000 acres of rich, natural pastures on South Australia’s Limestone Coast. Enjoy an authentic paddock-to-plate dining experience at the Tasting Room, where Mayura’s Head Chef will explain and prepare three to four courses using a variety of prime Wagyu beef cuts accompanied by fresh seasonal produce, premium wines and mouthwatering desserts. For an extra touch of luxury, leave the car at home and arrive via air (Air Adventure Australia’s Great Wagyu Adventure departs from Melbourne for a decadent day of wining and dining including lunch at Mayura Station, airadventure.com.au).1103 Mayura Rd, Millicent0408 899 011mayurastation.com

ITALIAN STYLEVINE TIME

WORTH THE DRIVE

South AustraliaWestern Australia

ADELAIDE

PERTH

FLINDERS RANGES

NULLARBOR BUNDA CLIFFS

MARGARETRIVER

FLINDERS RANGES

NULLARBOR PLAINMARGARET RIVER REGION

START: ADELAIDEFramed by expansive parklands and historic buildings, this intimate city is perfect as a gateway to regional South Australia or a destination in its own right. Don’t miss a walk through the stunning Botanic Gardens, and a visit to cricket heaven – Adelaide Oval – before you exit the city to immerse yourself in outback Australia’s stunning scenery.

FLINDERS RANGESThese gorges, creeks and mountain ranges are home to abundant wildlife, Aboriginal rock art sites, fossil heritage and ruins of early European settlement. Take a scenic flight, join a guided tour, drive or walk under your own steam to make the most of what this beautiful region has to offer.

NULLARBOR – BUNDA CLIFFSBordered by the Great Australian Bight to the south and the Great Victoria Desert to the north, visiting the Nullarbor Plain is an unforgettable Australian experience. Nullarbor comes from the Latin for ‘no trees’, so don’t expect lush rainforest. Instead, brace yourself for seemingly endless desert, as you head south to stunning limestone cliffs. The Southern Right Whales pass by Bunda Cliffs when visiting their winter calving grounds, generally between May and September.

MARGARET RIVERThe Margaret River region is famous wine country, with cellar doors dotting the lush landscape that hugs the coast of Western Australia. From lighthouses to wildflowers, surfing and fresh produce, this is a place to set up camp (or find yourself a luxury lodge) and stay a while.

This drive is epic. If you’re short on time, we suggest ending the trip at the Nullarbor – Bunda Cliffs and returning to Adelaide.

Adelaide to Flinders Ranges:442 kilometres, 5 hours

Flinders Ranges to Nullarbor - Bunda Cliffs:910 kilometres, 9 hours 30 minutes

Nullarbor to Margaret River:1885 kilometres, 19 hours

Margaret River to Perth:267 kilometres, 3 hours

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Endless outbackFINISH: PERTHThe views of the city of Perth from nearby Kings Park are spectacular. Work up an appetite and satisfy your cravings at one of many trendy cafes in South Perth, before heading to the beach for the afternoon. Laidback and leisurely. DA

Road Trip | SOUTH AUSTRALIA



Way out

Australia’s largest state, WA has it all – rich seams of gold, pristine beaches, unforgettable wildlife and award winning food and wine

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Regional | WESTERN AUSTRALIA

With shores that meet the Indian and Southern Oceans and the Great Australian Bight, and landlocked borders nudging the Northern Territory and South Australia, Western Australia

is our largest state, occupying one third of Australia’s land mass, or over 2.5 million square kilometres. From the wildly beautiful north west to the beaches and biodiversity of the south, this state has a little bit of everything.

BROOME AND THE NORTH WESTThe north west is home to some of Australia’s most ancient landscapes, including the rock formations of Karjini Park that date back two billion years, as well as spectacular gorges and waterfalls. Take the Jaburara Heritage Trail that sets out from the coastal town of Karratha to discover Aboriginal rock art and engravings over 30,000 years old.

The region is also home to the Kimberley – a vast wilderness with natural attractions such as the Horizontal Waterfalls (a fast moving tidal flow between two gorges) and the beehive-like Bungle Bungle Range in Purnululu National Park. Take a trip on expansive Lake Argyle, the largest freshwater lake in the southern hemisphere and 20 times the size of Sydney Harbour.

Four-wheel drives are a popular way to traverse this region, while the coastal areas of the Kimberley are best experienced by boat.

In Broome, the azure waters and pristine sands of Cable Beach span 22 kilometres. Here, you can witness the Staircase to the Moon, a natural phenomenon that can be seen from March to October when the full moon rises over the exposed mudflats, creating the optical illusion of a staircase reaching towards the heavens.

THE CORAL COASTOn the Coral Coast you’ll discover Shark Bay World Heritage Area incorporating Ningaloo Reef, the world’s largest fringing reef and home to majestic whale sharks. Tours of the site leave from the coastal towns of Exmouth and Coral Bay – book early for your chance to swim with these gentle giants, while spotting corals, manta rays and schools of tropical fish. The heritage area is also home to Hamelin Pool, where the oldest living marine fossils were discovered.

At the famed inlet of Monkey Mia, wild dolphins swim into shore daily, and regularly frolic with tourists. Shell Bay is another memorable stop, with a unique shoreline formed from billions of tiny shells.

Nambung National Park is worth a visit to view the eerie limestone spires of the Pinnacles that rise from kilometres of desert sand. Or explore the deserted islands of the Dampier Archipelago and the Abrolhos Islands west of Geraldton.

KALGOORLIE AND THE GOLDEN OUTBACKThe Golden Outback is famed for its clear night skies teeming with stars and planets. On its southern tip is Esperance, home to white beaches where local kangaroos can be seen sunbathing with beach-goers, as well as an

expansive Pink Lake caused by a high concentration of algae in the water. For the best views, take a walk to Pink Lake Lookout. The town sits on the shores of Esperance Bay, which is speckled with islands that make up the Recherche Archipelago. There are four national parks in the area where you’ll find granite headlands, rugged coastline, and pristine fishing and camping sites.

The Golden Outback is also home to the rich mining town of Kalgoorlie, which witnessed one of the country’s biggest gold rushes and still produces 75 per cent of Australia’s gold.

Three hundred kilometres inland from Perth is another favourite attraction – Wave Rock, a granite cliff that stands 15 metres high and 110 metres long, and resembles a giant surf wave coming at you. For more sculptural surprises, visit the salt flats of Lake Ballard near Menzies to see the life-size figures created by world-renowned artist Antony Gormley in what is the largest outdoor gallery on earth.

MARGARET RIVER AND THE SOUTH WEST Just three hours from Perth by car, this biodiverse region is something to behold. An incredible 80 per cent of plant species in the south west are found nowhere else on earth. Stroll through towering forests, explore ancient caves, or go whale watching in season (June-September).

Head south along the coast stopping in at friendly seaside towns along the way, including family favourite Busselton with its picturesque 1.8 kilometre jetty, safe beaches and Underwater Observatory, Dunsborough and Yallingup, which offer a more upmarket experience of boutique retailers, fine dining and retreats.

In Margaret River rich, fertile soils and a mild, Mediterranean climate combine to create prime conditions for award winning wines and produce. Spend a weekend hopping between the cellar doors and restaurants of some of the world’s best wineries, including Vasse Felix, Evans & Tate, Leeuwin Estate and Cape Mentelle.

The region is also known for its surf breaks, so bring a board and hit up Surfers Point, Boranup, Yallingup or Three Bears. If spectating is more your speed, check out the Margaret River Surf Classic in December, one of WA’s largest and longest running surfing events.

Further south explore the quaint timber towns of Pemberton, Manjimup and Walpole, where local produce (including the exotic black truffle) will tempt you, and Karri-Jarrah forests, quiet lakes and wildflowers soothe your traveller’s soul.

The southern-most point of WA is known for its mountain ranges and dramatic granite coastlines, with the cosmopolitan town of Albany at its heart – steeped in whaling and convict history.

Other highlights of the region include Fitzgerald River National Park, Bluff Knoll and the Stirling Ranges, King George Sound and the Valley of the Giant Tree Top Walk near picturesque Denmark. DA

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PREVIOUS PAGE: Uluru. THIS PAGE: Kings Canyon. OPPOSITE PAGE, CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT: Canoeing through Katherine Gorge; Butterfly Gorge; Simpsons Gap; jumping crocodiles, Adelaide River; Camel safari, Central Australia; Southern Rockhole, Nitmiluk National Park; Devils Marbles; Turtle Tracks Tour, Darwin Harbour; Aboriginal rock art, Kakadu National Park. IM

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TOP END treatsAustralia’s only tropical capital, Darwin is a

delight for the mind and the senses

Darwin is truly something else. Home to camel races, saltwater crocs, al fresco dining, dreamy sunsets and epic monsoons, this city is one of strange and beautiful contrasts. The average temperature in Darwin is 32C year round,

giving rise to a vibrant outdoor culture, from waterfront dining to exploring tropical parklands. Darwin owes its cultural and culinary influences as much to its Asian neighbours as to its indigenous heritage, and with Australia’s youngest population it’s also refreshingly laidback.

Darwin has two seasons. The dry season starts in April/May and runs until October/November, bringing perfect weather, clear blue skies, balmy nights and warm days. This is Darwin at its best. If you arrive in August make sure you catch the Darwin Festival, an 18-day extravaganza of music, theatre, dance and cabaret (darwinfestival.org.au). The wet season begins in October/November with steamy weather, the odd lightning spectacular and short, intense rains. The risk of floods and cyclones increases during the wet season, however many locals relish this season as the time when the city is most alive, with raging waterfalls, breeding wildlife and blooming wild flowers.

Discover Darwin’s unique history, from the first Aboriginal people to the 1800s gold rush and Cyclone Tracy on a two-hour walking tour (darwinwalkingtours.com). The East Point Military Museum maps out the city’s wartime history including the bombing of Darwin during World War II. Deep beneath the city you’ll find the World War II oil storage tunnels, containing a photographic display of the area during the war. Or visit Lyons Cottage, which overlooks Darwin Harbour and was once the home and office of the people who worked on the submarine cable that connected Australia and the UK. Today it houses an indigenous and European art collection. The Darwin

Wharf Precinct is a must-visit destination with a number of historic landmarks including the Sandfly steam locomotive that arrived by ship in 1886.

Foodies will savour the sensory experience of Cullen Bay, where restaurants serve up fresh local highlights such as mud crab, barramundi, kangaroo, crocodile and buffalo. For a meal on the go, try the laksa at the Parap Markets (open Saturdays 8am–2pm). If you prefer to linger over just-plucked seafood, head to one of the many restaurants at Stokes Hill Wharf.

Darwin Harbour is worth a visit, with plenty of activities on offer. Join a fishing expedition to try your hand at catching local barramundi, golden snapper and threadfin salmon, or charter a boat or a seaplane flight to discover the nearby bays and mangrove forests. Make sure you stay for sunset – the fiery tropical sun puts on a dramatic finale each evening over the harbour. Savour the sights from any of the seaside clubs in Fannie Bay, as well as the coastal reserves at East Point, Nightcliff and Casuarina. Or book a sunset cruise on a pearl lugger, catamaran or seacat. Prices often include champagne, canapés and occasionally a full dinner.

For more magical sunsets, as well as colourful arts and crafts, jewellery and fashion, and tempting offerings from Darwin’s culinary rainbow – including Thai, Sri Lankan, Indian, Chinese, Malaysian, Brazilian, Greek and Portugese – don’t miss Mindil Beach Sunset Markets (mindil.com.au). Shop and eat to your heart’s content, then treat yourself to a massage or kick back with a coconut water and watch the fire twirlers.

After dark, have a flutter at Sky City Casino (if you are still hungry, the seafood buffet at Sky City’s Sunset Restaurant is excellent value), or head to Darwin’s main nightlife precinct in Mitchell Street for a bevy of bars and beer gardens. DA T

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Darwin | NORTHERN TERRITORY

9AM Sip on a mango smoothie or slurp down a spicy laksa as you stroll through the Parap Village Markets.

10.30AM If the tide is high, wander down to Doctor’s Gully and witness the phenomenal sight of hundreds of wild fish swimming to shore to be hand-fed.

11AM Make the short drive out to Charles Darwin National Park. Explore the rich mangroves and discover relics dating back to WW1.

1PM Head to Darwin’s Waterfront Precinct and tuck into some fresh, local seafood as you soak up the picturesque surrounds.

2.30PM Be inspired by lunch and venture out on a fishing trip. Drop a line and see what bites!

5PM Enjoy some time relaxing on the beach – sit and soak up the rays with a good book, or meander along the water’s edge.

6PM Experience the magic of Darwin’s ‘Deckchair Cinema’. Pick up some dinner from one of the many food vendors, grab a drink from the bar and settle in to watch a film under the starry night sky.

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MAIN IMAGE: Territory Day Fireworks.

NORTHERN TERRITORY | Arts & Culture

Top end cultureDelve into the Northern Territory’s vibrant arts scene and discover what makes the top end tick

MUSEUM AND ART GALLERY OF THE NORTHERN TERRITORY Set amongst tropical gardens overlooking the Arafura Sea, MAGNT is the Northern Territory’s premier cultural institution. Here you’ll find one of the world’s most important collections of film, sound and objects relating to Australian Indigenous ceremonial life as well as collections of Aboriginal, Southeast Asian and Oceanic art, exhibits on life in Darwin through WWII and Cyclone Tracy and more than 1.2 million natural history specimens. Refuel at the Cornucopia Museum Cafe. 19 Conacher Street, Fannie Baymagnt.nt.gov.au

THE CHINESE TEMPLE AND MUSEUMChinese labourers were integral to Darwin’s early development and this museum serves as a record of their contribution. The adjoining temple practices a combination of Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism and is open to all. Its grounds are home to a sacred Bodhi tree, believed to be a direct descendent of the one under which Buddha gained enlightenment.25 Woods Street, Darwinchungwahnt.asn.au

DARWIN FESTIVALHeld annually in August, the Darwin Festival is an 18-day extravaganza of music, theatre, dance, cabaret and food. It began nearly 50 years ago with a parade of floats and has grown to become one of Australia’s premier festivals. Join the fun, experience the nightly Festival Club and tuck into divine food and drink at the food stalls and pop up bars that spring up during festival season. With acts that range from avant-garde to family friendly, there’s sure to be something for everyone.darwinfestival.org.au

DECKCHAIR CINEMAEnjoy the best alternative cinema offerings from Australia and overseas at Darwin’s stunning Deckchair Cinema which runs during the dry season (April to November). Enjoy a meal and an ale amongst the tropical garden setting as you watch the sun sink into the sea, then kick back as night falls and enjoy your film, whether it’s a family favourite or an indie darling.deckchaircinema.com

OUTSTATION GALLERY Located in Darwin’s Parap gallery precinct, Outstation Gallery represents a broad range of artwork, including emerging and established Indigenous artists from 15 remote community art centres across the Kimberley, Central Australia, the Western Desert and Arnhem Land. The gallery supports art from art centres, ensuring that fair work practises are maintained, so you can rest assured that your purchase benefits the artist and the local community. Upstairs, 8 Parap Place, Parap(enter via Gregory Street)outstation.com.au

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GODINYMAYIN YIJARD RIVERS ARTS AND CULTURE CENTRE Cross-cultural enterprise GYRACC is a meeting place for Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples to gather, create and learn. Aspiring to be a model for reconciliation, it hosts exhibitions and performances of indigenous and non- indigenous cultural expression including folk music, theatre and bush artworks.

Lot 3238 Stuart Highway, Katherinegyracc.org.au

WORTH THE TRIP


Food & Wine | NORTHERN TERRITORY

WATERFRONT TREASURE

CAFE CHARM

LOCAL LEGEND

AUTHENTIC DELIGHTS

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Discover an eclectic mix of flavours in Australia’s tropical top end

HANUMANMulti award winning Hanuman is a Darwin institution, bringing the true flavours of Thailand, Malaysia, India and South East Asia to the Top End. Authenticity is a passion of owner and head chef Jimmy Shu, who regularly travels to Asia in search of new flavours, forgotten ingredients and local culinary masters willing to share their secrets. The impressive menu features delights such as meen moolie (wild barramundi fillets cooked in turmeric, fresh curry leaf and coconut), pork belly cooked Toew Chiu Chinese style and Hanuman’s signature dish, cardamom and cumin infused butter chicken. Can’t decide? Opt for the Hanuman tasting plate and let Jimmy take you on a gastronomic adventure.

Doubletree Esplanade, 93 Mitchell Street, Darwin(08) 8941 3500

IL LIDOPerched on the water’s edge at Wharf One on Darwin Waterfront, Il Lido’s awe-inspiring views are just the start of the experience. Stop in for breakfast, lunch or dinner and enjoy classics like beer battered fish and chips with crushed peas and tartar sauce or a quarter pounder. If your tastes run a little more gourmet you’ll love the blackened watermelon salad or the smoked duck with charred pineapple, cashews and spicy Nim Jam dressing. Plus tapas, pizzas, a scrumptious wine list and plenty of classic cocktails. Enjoy al fresco or opt for air conditioned comfort inside – just get yourself there.

F3 Wharf One, Kitchener Drive, Darwin(08) 8941 0900illidodarwin.com.au

SEOUL FOODAward winning Seoul Food serves classic Korean dishes with a modern western twist. Be tempted by local barramundi, served in a lemongrass and Thai basil sauce, or succulent, slow cooked Java pork ribs, drizzled with a delicate sweet soy coffee sauce, fresh rocket pesto and celeriac puree. The Crying Tiger Wagyu – char grilled wagyu coupled with sushi ratatouille and wasabi butter – is another tantalising option, as is their version of the quintessential Korean delicacy, bibimbap. The extensive drinks list offers traditional Korean rice wine and beers alongside a range of local wines. Bookings essential on Friday and Saturday evenings.

31 Woods St, Darwin(08) 8981 0888

FOUR BIRDSNestled within the Star Village Arcade, Four Birds is a hidden gem. Soak up the sunshine in the charming courtyard or nab a shady spot under the frangipani tree as you tuck into breakfast, lunch or something in between. There are plenty of dairy and gluten free options available. Coffee fiends will be impressed by the quality of the brew – which rightfully stakes a claim as the best in Darwin – and those with a sweet tooth will have a hard time choosing from the myriad muffins, cakes and baked delights on offer.

Shop 2, Star Village Arcade, Smith Street Mall, Darwin0408 729 708

I grew up in Port Macquarie, New South Wales. For the past six-and-a-half years my husband and I travelled across Australia working in the Whitsundays, Cairns and Broome. Having experienced a significant amount of time surrounded by tropical islands we decided it was time to get to know the spiritual heart of our country and experience Australia’s outback. Relocating to Darwin in 2013 has opened a new world of adventure – my husband now flies the Grumman Mallard flying boats for Paspaley (the world’s finest pearls) and I am in a position where I get to showcase the wonders of the NT to the rest of Australia and New Zealand! The NT moves me, and I’m lucky to have such magical moments in my backyard and to be able to share them, not only through my role at Tourism NT, but with friends, family and travellers I meet. I get to witness first-hand how people’s perception of the NT changes once they have experienced it. A lot of people have preconceived ideas about the NT: it’s too hot, too far away, too difficult to experience, you need a lot of time to

“do” the NT, it’s not an active destination, it’s too dangerous. Once they experience it firsthand, there’s usually quite an emotional reaction – whether that’s sitting on an airboat in a Mary River billabong surrounded by lush lillypads with tears of joy streaming down their face at the realisation of how beautiful life is, or shouting “yahoo!” at the top of their lungs as their camel rises to take them on a journey through the sand dunes to dinner under the stars with Uluru as their backdrop.

My perfect day in Darwin starts with an early morning walk with my two dogs along the Nightcliff foreshore where the cool ocean breeze wakes you up. Then it’s time for coffee and breakfast and on a Saturday morning nothing beats a delicious crepe from the Parap Markets – I usually opt for Nutella and strawberry, they are divine! To burn off the indulgence I like to wander through the stalls and purchase fresh tropical flowers and delicious spices from the locals (parapvillage.com.au).

After a busy morning I like to unwind at the Lagoon Day Spa at SkyCity, a foot massage or facial is a great way to relax (skycity.com.au). To complete this experience, a cheeky lunch with wine at nearby Il Piatto (also at SkyCity) offers stunning tropical views of Mindil Beach.

Catching up with friends is an important part of any perfect day, and Char Restaurant on the Esplanade in the Darwin CBD offers a great outdoor setting under the stars and lanterns, fine dining with a great wine list, and a delicious range of cocktails (chardarwin.com.au).

The burgers at the Humpty Doo Hotel are showstoppers. The emerging food scene in the NT is becoming a hot topic, with cafes and delis surprising many visitors (humptydoohotel.net).

For dinner, I love PeeWees at the Point. The view across the water back to the Darwin CBD is breathtaking and the venue encompasses everything that makes living in the tropics unique (peewees.com.au).

Nikkie Mewing worked at world-class tourism destinations across Australia before giving up tropical islands to experience the true Australian outback. As TourismNT’s PR and Social Media manager she is passionate about introducing travellers to the magic that goes on in her new backyard

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NikkieNikkie Mewing


Insider | NORTHERN TERRITORY

Viva La Vida in the Smith Street Mall has a fun vibe where you can people watch and also boasts a fantastic tapas menu perfect for sharing with friends (vivalavidadarwin.com.au).

Nightcliff Foreshore is a scenic walking track along the waterfront with fantastic views of the northern beaches, and rustic stone escarpments that attract locals and trendy food trucks. There is also a pop-up pizza and pasta stall on certain nights where you can dine under the stars watching the sun set over the water with a fresh woodfire pizza – bliss!

Darwin Festival is hands down the best place to catch live music. Held during August when the weather is breathtaking, it keeps visitors entertained with live performances, comedy acts, and unique showcases. The Entertainment Centre in Darwin and SkyCity also host a number of events (travelnt.com/events).

The ‘Dry’ season from May until October is characterised by warm, dry sunny days and cool nights. Temperatures typically range from

21C (70F) to 32C (90F), and the humidity levels are much lower: around 60–65 per cent.

One NT essential experience for those short on time is Outback Floatplane Adventures, hosted by none other than National Geogaphic’s ‘Outback Wrangler’ Matt Wright (outbackfloatplanes.com.au). You are whisked away in a seaplane to

Sweets Lagoon where you land on the water greeted by spectacular scenery, followed by a heli-tour of the area to get a bird’s eye view and spot buffalo and wild pigs, and finish with an airboat adventure through crocodile country. It certainly keeps you on your toes!

When friends visit the NT, I encourage them to unwind with a sunset sail on a catamaran out of Cullen Bay to watch the sunset. Many people are surprised to learn

that the city is surrounded by water and that you can actually watch the sun rise and set over the water. Jumping Crocodile Cruises gives visitors that chance to have a close encounter with an NT icon (jumpingcrocodile.com.au). I also like to take people out to the Mary River Region, particularly Wildman Wilderness Lodge – one of my favourite retreats in the NT – where

a glamping experience puts you into a relaxed – yet comfortable – state where you can get back to nature (wildmanwildernesslodge.com.au).

You can identify a NT local by the thong tan on their feet or sunglasses tan around their eyes, we love our tropical weather! (Just to clarify, the word ‘thong’ refers to footwear in Australia!) Darwin is… tropical, vibrant, active, waterfront and markets (galore!)

We decided it was time to get to know the spiritual heart of our country and experience Australia’s outback.

My family moved to Caloundra when I was nine years old and there was just one school and no traffic lights. Unlike my siblings, I inherited itchy feet and spent 12 years working overseas plus stints in Cairns and Sydney.

These days nothing makes me feel more grounded than heading back to the coast and chowing down on a burger with beetroot by the beach. Throw in sunset over the Glasshouse Mountains and the squawk of thousands of parrots in the Norfolk Trees above, and you’ve experienced a little piece of my homeland.

What I enjoy most about my job is the thrill of the next destination. I have a map on my desk and when I look at it I see big white spaces that I’m burning to explore. On my current bucket list there are three things beside Queensland: Fraser Island, Cape York Peninsula and the five-day Thornsborne Trail across Hinchinbrook Island.

This is one of the few places in Australia where you can cuddle a koala at just about every animal

sanctuary [you can also cuddle a koala in a couple of zoos in WA and SA]. While a lot of Aussies would scoff at this, it’s a billion dollar industry and just about every international tourist I know wants to feel their fur. I think it’s pretty much a rite of passage for every Aussie kid too.

It’s also the only place in the world where you can swim with the Dwarf Minke Whales. They come to play in the Northern Ribbon Reef area off Port Douglas for just a few weeks each year in June and July. No one knows why they come, where they’ve come from or where they are heading. All we know is that when you jump in the water and hang off a rope, you can have one of the most magical animal encounters ever.

Even if you don’t spot a Minke, the dive sites in this region are unbelievable. I felt as if I had fallen through the looking glass and ended up in a Doctor Seuss storybook, with unimaginable creatures at every turn.

South Bank is the cultural kilometre of the city and the communal heart of Brisbane.

It’s bursting with things to do, from designer markets to restaurants, to beachside BBQs and live theatre. Last weekend I took my nieces and nephew to the Science Centre in the Queensland Museum (sciencentre.qm.qld.gov.au). Otherwise, I’ll wander through GOMA for the latest blockbuster art exhibition (qagoma.qld.gov.au).

Saturday night is date night and being a little bit, ahem, “mature”, these days my partner and I focus on restaurants with friends. Gerard’s Bistro in New Farm is our current favourite (gerardsbistro.com.au) and we also have Gordita on the list (gordita.com.au). When we first started dating years back you would have found us perched on a stool at the Jazz Club at Kangaroo Point on the weekend (brisbanejazzclub.com.au), or watching live comedy at the Powerhouse (brisbanepowerhouse.org).

Queensland has a grand total of 95 hatted restaurants. That’s huge and means you could eat three meals a day in an awarded restaurant for a month. Nothing beats a chew with a view and Brisbane River looks pretty speccy at night if you can get a table by

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Shelley Winkel was born in Brisbane but considers herself a Sunshine Coast girl. After a decade overseas, she returned home to promote Queenland’s Dreamworld and WhiteWater World before landing a dream gig at Tourism Queensland

Shelley Winkel


Insider | QUEENSLAND

the river. I like ARIA for the attention to detail and the impressive service (ariarestaurant.com), and Stokehouse for the glittery view of the city skyline (stokehousebrisbane.com.au).

Near home, Little Brew in Paddington is my favourite place to grab a coffee (littlebrew.com.au),

but at work I sneak off to Contessa By Blackstar (154 Roma Street, Brisbane). The hipsters in that store don’t blink an eye when I ask for a double strength three-quarter milk skinny cap!

There is a restaurant on the outskirts of Brisbane that takes my breath away. It’s called Spring Creek Mountain Café in Killarney. Like its namesake in Ireland, the rolling hills are restorative for the soul and Bev makes the world’s best brownies (springcreekcottages.com.au).

My favourite beach is Bulcock Beach, without a doubt. Macabre as it may sound, it’s written in my will to

have my ashes scattered off the beach and into the Pumicestone Passage. This place reminds me of gentle times. Seagulls swoop down to eat chips, kids are building sandcastles, pelicans fly by, there are scrappy fisherpeople pulling in whiting and lots of laughter. It’s always been my little escape hatch when I need some time out.

Carnarvon Gorge is my spiritual haven. It’s just incredible. You drive for miles before hitting this absolute Eden that flowers out of nowhere. The gorge offers miles of walking tracks beside knee-deep fresh water creeks, giant fern trees and huge gum trees. I camped there one time and came back to find a wild kangaroo inside my tent. It’s magical and mystical – just like a scene out of Avatar.

You can’t say you’ve been to Queensland unless you have experienced the Reef, and one of the best places to do it is Lady Elliott Island, around 80 kilometres east of Bundaberg. It’s one of only three true

coral cay island resorts on the Great Barrier Reef, which means that you can literally step off the beach and snorkel colourful coral cays. Turtles are abundant (especially during the breeding season when they zip around you, often in rapidly united pairs) and manta rays flock in herds in nearby channels.

Nothing beats winter in the northern parts of Queensland. The rest of the country is bunkered down under woolly coats and beanies, but Cairns is a radiant 23–26C. Visibility on the reef is near perfect and it feels like you are in a different country altogether.

You don’t have to search for a Queensland local – they’ll find you, and will likely strike up a conversation. When I was living in Sydney I was laughed at for sitting in the front of a cab and chatting away to the cabbies. It’s a Queensland thing – we are generally curious about people and disarmingly friendly.

Queensland is… warm, friendly, irreverent, laid back and confident. DA

I have a map on my desk and when I look at it I see big white spaces that I’m burning to explore.


QUEENSLAND | Regional

great north

A true tropical delight, Queensland offers a dazzling array of things to see and do. Experience unparalleled natural beauty,

intriguing wildlife, island magic and coastal charm

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Regional | QUEENSLAND

THE GOLD COASTThe glitziest jewel in Queensland’s crown, the Gold Coast is beloved by local and international tourists alike. This coastal stretch south of Brisbane is famous for its expansive, sandy white coastline, where surfers converge to enjoy a great day in the waves, and sun lovers will find plenty of room to relax and enjoy the beach surrounds. Main Beach has a bustling cafe scene with views of sleek private yachts bobbing in the canals, while Surfers Paradise is a hub of bars, nightclubs, surf stores and great food. Head inland to the lush hinterland region and swap the bright lights of the coast for quaint villages, organic farms, rolling vineyards and relaxing day spas.

SUNSHINE COASTLess developed than the Gold Coast, this popular holiday region stretches north from Brisbane and encompasses surf shops, cosy cafes, excellent restaurants and great shopping. The towns of Noosa Heads and Coolum offer an abundance of accommodation, activities, and world-class dining and shopping.

Visit the Big Pineapple, a kitschy tourist icon that pays tribute to the area’s pineapple growing past and hosts a lively Saturday market (bigpineapple.com.au), and enjoy wonderful holiday spots and local attractions along the way, including the spectacular Glasshouse Mountains in the hinterland. The quaint township of Maleny – once a timber region renowned for its cedar, beech and hoop pine – is now a pleasant tourist stop boasting art galleries, organic cafes, open studios and sensational wineries.

The world-renowned Australia Zoo is another star attraction of the region. Made famous by the late, great Steve “Crocodile Hunter” Irwin, today the park is run by the “legendary khaki collective”. It’s home to hundreds of amazing animals, including crocodiles, elephants, snakes and cheetahs, along with native Australian animals, and plenty of up-close wildlife action and shows on offer (australiazoo.com.au).

FAR NORTH QUEENSLANDTropical, wild and rugged, Far North Queensland is home to the breathtaking natural beauty of two World Heritage-Listed icons – the Daintree Rainforest and the majestic Great Barrier Reef. Holiday hot spots Port Douglas and Cairns are great bases for discovering the region’s delights, while also being sophisticated tropical destinations in their own right, with plenty of great shopping, dining and cultural highlights. You’ll find ample ways to occupy your time, including snorkelling, wilderness safari adventures, food and wine trails, whale watching, whitewater rafting and bushwalking.

Exploring the Daintree Rainforest and Cape Tribulation is something you will remember forever. Located 100 kilometres north of Cairns, there are plenty of ways you can experience this spectacular area. Take a scenic drive, a nocturnal tour, a rainforest walk, or join a bird or wildlife watching group.

The Daintree River is also a popular spot for croc watching.

A trip to the World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef is a must. It contains over 140 islands, many with luxury resorts and natural wonderlands just waiting to be discovered. The reef itself is home to thousands of endangered species of birds and marine life, as well as having significant indigenous historical ties to the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Island communities.

THE WHITSUNDAYSThe Whitsunday Islands off Queensland’s north east coast is a true tropical paradise. The archipelago is made up of 74 tropical islands lying in the heart of the magnificent Great Barrier Reef and surrounded by the calm waters of the Coral Sea. Most of the islands are uninhabited, and several offer the chance of back-to-nature beach camping and bushwalking. Popular island resorts in the passage include Hamilton Island, Hayman Island, Daydream Island and other gems. Airlie Beach on the mainland is the coastal hub


and major gateway to the islands, as well as being an inviting destination itself, with palm-fringed beaches and resort hotels.

THE FRASER COASTThis stunning region north of the Sunshine Coast incorporates Hervey Bay and pristine World Heritage-listed Fraser Island, which is just a ferry ride from the mainland. The island is only accessible by four wheel drive and is webbed with sandy tracks through rainforest terrain, beach shorelines and alongside secret inland lakes.

The region is most famous for being the country’s premier whale-watching destination. Hervey Bay is where majestic Humpback Whales come to rest and play between the months of July and November. Hop aboard a day or half-day whale-watching cruise for the unique opportunity to come face-to-face with these gentle giants of the sea.

THE OUTBACKAdventure awaits you in outback Queensland, a rugged region of incredible contrasts. This is country made famous by poets like Banjo Patterson, where billabongs and rivers are lined with Coolabah trees. The parched and sunburnt country is brimming with adventures, from four wheel drive camping expeditions, to discovering ancient Aboriginal rock art as you trek through one of the region’s 20 national parks, to waterholes, wetlands and desert sand dunes. Fish for barramundi, relax in a natural mud bath in the tiny town of Eulo, take a sunset cruise down the Thomson River, drive any one of the discovery trails including the Muttaburra Heritage Trail or Dinosaur Trail, or take a scenic flight over the country’s largest copper mines and spectacular Lake Moondarra. DA

For more inspiration, visit queenslandholidays.com.au

OPPOSITE PAGE: Whitehaven Beach, Queensland.

INFORMATION | Traveller’s Tips


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$$ BANKS, ATMS & POST OFFICES Banks are generally open from 9.30am to 4pm on

weekdays, with some offering extended hours and opening on Saturday morning.

Automatic Teller Machines (ATMs) are located throughout Australia and at participating retail locations (including petrol stations and convenience stores). Your card must carry a CIRRUS, PLUS or STAR international ATM mark, or Interlink or Maestro POS mark. Travellers should contact their own bank for availability and service charges.

Post offices are open from 9am to 5pm on weekdays. Stamps can also be purchased from selected hotels and retail outlets including newsagents.

BUSHFIRESThe main danger period for bushfires and firestorms in densely forested areas

and parklands is from late spring through summer.

All areas of Australia carry bushfire warnings and will ban the lighting of fires during periods of potential danger.

Follow all precautions and inform yourself of danger zones before setting off on a journey and comply with warning signs or total fire bans. Failure to do so will result in heavy fines.

BUS LINES & RAILWAYSMultiple day rail passes are available at train stations and a range of bus

passes can be purchased from newsagents and convenience stores. Check state websites for train and bus services and timetables.

A network of bus services supplement interstate train travel, and country and interstate travel by trains and buses can be booked through a range of businesses, including: Countrylink – call 132 232 or visit countrylink.infoFirefly Express – call 1300 730 740 or visit fireflyexpress.com.au Greyhound Australia – call 1300 473 946 or visit greyhound.com.au Rail Australia – call 132 147 or visit railaustralia.com.au

CAR HIREMajor international car rental companies are represented in most

cities and at most airports. A valid driver’s licence is required and the minimum age for hiring a car is 21 years old.

CLIMATE & SEASONS Summer: December to FebruaryAutumn: March to May

Winter: June to AugustSpring: September to November

Australia’s climate is regarded as fairly mild throughout the year. The country has two main climatic zones – the north above the tropic of Capricorn, where about 40 per cent of Australia is tropical, and the temperate zone in the remaining part of the country.

During summer the weather can get extremely hot all around the country, with the Top End experiencing its ‘wet season’ of daily tropical storms.

During winter temperatures drop, particularly in the south, and the ski season in the mountain regions of NSW, Victoria and Tasmania extends from June to September.

CREDIT CARDS & TRAVELLER’S CHEQUESThe most commonly accepted credit cards

include Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Bankcard, Diners Club and Carte Blanche, and their affiliates.

Traveller’s cheques can be cashed at most banks or larger hotels, with some charging a small fee. Most currencies are accepted.

CURRENCY & EXCHANGE100 cents = AUD$1Australian currency

consists of 5c, 10c, 20c, 50c, $1 and $2 coins. Notes available are $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100.

Currency exchange facilities are located at airports, as well as designated outlets in city centres and at most banks.

DISABLED VISITORSAustralian hotels, airlines, major attractions and transport carriers generally

provide excellent access for people with disabilities. Advance notice and details of your disability will ensure the best possible assistance.

Guides to facilities are available from the National Information Communication Awareness Network – please call 1800 806 769 or visit nican.com.au

DRIVING & ROAD TRAVEL• Australians drive on the left-hand side of the road

• Visitors from overseas can drive on a valid international driver’s licence. If your driver’s licence is not in English, a translation must be carried with the permit • The blood alcohol limit is 0.05 per cent and penalties for non-observance of this law are severe• Seat belts must be worn by the driver and all passengers• Road speed limits differ between states but in general they are:100km-110km on freeways50km-60km in built up areas40km in school zones between 8am-9.30am and 2.30pm-4pm on weekdays• Hitchhiking is illegal

Traveller’s tips & adviceGet the most out of your Australian experience by taking note of these top tips

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• Never leave small children or animals locked in vehicles in hot weather. This can be extremely dangerous and offenders will be fined• Driver’s fatigue is a serious road danger. Stop and rest every couple of hours when travelling long distances to avoid an accident• Take care on remote country roads and tracks, as native wildlife and cattle can cross unexpectedly. The most dangerous times of day for visibility are sunset and twilight • When travelling in remote regions, always advise someone of your expected time of arrival at your destination, and the number of people travelling with you. Therefore, if you fail to arrive, help procedures can be initiated. Never leave your vehicle if you get lost or break down • Take care when travelling on freeways and highways that are also used by large trucks and road trains. Always give them plenty of room and allow at least one kilometre of clear road before overtaking • Do not attempt to cross a flooded river causeway unless you are sure of the water depth and any possible road damage. Most flash floods will recede within 24 hours• In areas where trams operate on the roads, always give way and stop behind the tram at designated tram stops for the safety of alighting passengers • Do not take risks when driving that could cause harm to you or others on the road• It is illegal to use a mobile phone while driving

ELECTRICAL APPLIANCESAustralia’s electricity supply is 240 volts. Most

electronic and travel stores sell plug adaptors. Always check if your 110-volt appliance has an automatic switch for a 240-volt supply, otherwise it is recommended you get a 110v/240v transformer before leaving home.

GST

Goods&ServicesTax

GSTIn 2000, Australia introduced a tax reform package that removed a

number of existing levies and imposed

a blanket Goods & Services Tax (GST) of 10 per cent. Inbound visitors benefit in that international and domestic flights purchased overseas by non-residents are GST free.

INTERNET & WIFI CONNECTIONSThere are free WiFi hot spots around the country –

to find a location near you, visit www.freewifi.com.au

LANGUAGE & RELIGIONEnglish is the main language in Australia, however many other

languages are spoken throughout the country. Telstra offers a 24-hour translation and interpreter service for an extensive range of languages – call 13 14 50.

Australia is a multicultural nation. Places of worship for most religions can be found in cities and towns around the country.

Liquor

+18LIQUOR LAWSYou must be 18 years or older to buy alcohol or consume it in public.

Regulations for opening hours of pubs, hotels, clubs and other licensed establishments vary from state to state.

+ MEDICAL Australian nationals and New Zealand visitors are covered by the national

health insurance scheme, Medicare, however this scheme does not apply to visitors from other countries.

We recommend you organise travel insurance before leaving home.

Visitors can bring a reasonable quantity of prescribed medication for personal use into Australia – it should all be clearly labelled and identifiable. Larger quantities may require a doctor’s certificate that may need to be produced before entry to the country.

Australian pharmacies can fill most prescriptions, however some may need to be issued by a registered Australian doctor.

In the event of illness, ask your hotel to contact a doctor or organise an ambulance.

PERSONAL SECURITYAustralia has a low crime rate and a stable political system, and is regarded as

a safe destination. However, we recommend you observe all the usual precautions with your possessions and personal safety.

POISONOUS ANIMALSAustralia has many poisonous and lethal animals. Marine stingers

such as the lethal box jellyfish and Irukandji are found in the coastal waters in northern Queensland from November to April. Only swim in allocated netted waters. If stung, seek immediate medical attention.

Another danger in these waters is the camouflaged stonefish. To protect against stepping on one, always wear thick-soled shoes when walking in tropical water or around reef areas.

In southern regions of Australia, stay clear of blue-ringed octopus, usually found in rock pools, as its bite can be fatal. Also avoid the painful sting of the blue bottle, also know as the Portuguese Man O’War.

When bushwalking or hiking, be aware of snakes and spiders, as many are extremely poisonous. Wear protective footwear and clothing, and if bitten seek immediate medical attention.

REMOTE JOURNEYS & BUSHWALKINGWhen embarking on an outback or remote journey,

make sure you’re properly prepared. Ensure your vehicle is fitted with GPS and two spare tyres, and take maps, extra food, water and fuel with you. Have an emergency plan in place and tell someone at your destination when you plan to arrive. Check road conditions before setting off and avoid travelling in extremely hot weather. Check with your mobile phone provider for coverage in the areas you’ll be travelling to.

When planning a hike or bushwalk, always check the distance and degree of difficulty before setting off, and consider using a local guide for longer, challenging walks. Always tell someone where you are going and your

TheLuxury Guide

ContentsT h e L u x u r y G u i d e 2 0 1 5 / 1 6

14 OPAL EXPERT Damien Cody of The National

Opal Collection

16 THE NATIONAL OPAL COLLECTION

18 DIAMOND EXPERT Calleija’s John Calleija

20 CALLEIJA Experience the Calleija difference

22 BEAUTIFUL THINGS

24 PEARL EXPERT Paspaley’s Christine Salter

26 PASPALEY Journey to the South Seas

28 INDULGENCE

34 ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

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2 HUBLOT Classic catch

4 WATCH EXPERT Julian Farren-Price

6 CHOPARD Superfast

8 JAEGER-LECOULTRE

10 FRANCK MULLER The art of timekeeping

26

A Hublot Promotion

Classiccatch

WHERE WE ARESYDNEYJ. Farren-PriceShop 2, St James Centre80 Castlereagh Street, SydneyPhone: (+61 2) 9231 3299Fax: (+61 2) 9223 1992Email: [email protected]

and Paris Saint-Germain to name just two) now bear the Hublot colours, not to mention the many players who sport Hublot watches.

Hublot has also forged strategic partnerships to cover the whole of the United States through basketball’s NBA – in the east there is Miami Heat and their captain Dwyane Wade, and on the west coast the Los Angeles Lakers and the legendary Kobe Bryant.

Of Hublot’s new partnership with the ICC, Hublot’s CEO Ricardo Guadalupe said: “This incredible sport will round off our worldwide marketing presence, and help drive our development in countries with high commercial potential. I am delighted with this great collaboration that awaits us, I am very proud that the ICC has chosen Hublot as its partner and I am thrilled to welcome Michael Clarke to the Hublot family.”

To celebrate this partnership with the ICC Hublot launched specially created, limited edition timepieces (available in King Gold and Titanium) inspired by the traditional cricket pitch and leather ball in 2015.

Hublot is “a different way to progress”. So say those who know this unique Swiss luxury watch company, where each and every moment moves forward to create the future

at breathtaking speed.Hublot strives to be unique and the first in its field. It

was the first luxury brand to enter football in 2006, now a familiar marketing and commercial success story. The same approach led Hublot into basketball, entering the NBA in 2011. Not to mention the success of Hublot’s worldwide collaboration with Ferrari.

Continuing this tradition, Hublot was the first luxury brand to enter cricket. The Swiss luxury watch brand recently announced an exclusive partnership with the International Cricket Council (ICC), making Hublot the Official Timekeeper of the Cricket World Cup 2015 Australia and New Zealand.

To celebrate this latest partnership, Hublot welcomed Australian sporting icon, Michael Clarke, into the fold as the new brand ambassador for Australia and New Zealand. A keen watch enthusiast, and always stylish off the pitch, Michael joins the prestigious Hublot family alongside the Brazil’s living legend, Pelé, the fastest man in the world Usain Bolt and football coach José Mourinho.

“I’m proud to partner with such a prestigious brand as Hublot,” said Michael Clarke. “Being an extremely keen watch enthusiast Hublot is a natural choice for me and I feel honoured to partner with Hublot as an official brand ambassador.”

Cricket provides a perfect geographic complement to football, a field in which Hublot has established itself as THE partner, and THE reference luxury watchmaking brand. Football’s major events, including the FIFA World Cup™, and the most prestigious clubs (Bayern Munich

Hublot: Classic Fusion Chrono Aerofusion Cricket King Gold

Hublot – a different way to progress

T h e L u x u r y G u i d e 2 0 1 52

‘...invisible visibility... ceramic reliefs designed,

cut, bevelled and polished like baguette diamonds’

BeautifulThings

XXXX Promotion

T h e L u x u r y G u i d e 2 0 1 4 3

The pleasure of opalDamien Cody is managing director of The National Opal

Collection, part of a family-owned business that started 40 years ago and has grown to be Australia’s largest opal company. He is also Ambassador to Australia for the International Colored Gemstone

Association (ICA). Here, he offers advice on purchasing opals

When looking to buy an opal or opal jewellery, there are a number of important things to keep in mind:

• Select a reputable retailer, preferably a member of the Jewellers Association of Australia (JAA). That way you will be provided with good, reliable advice

• Know what it is you are buying. Is it a solid opal or a composite opal? A solid opal will command a much higher price

• Ask to see the three main types of opal – Black, Boulder and Light Opal

• Brilliance of the colour play is paramount when selecting an opal. The range of colours will also contribute to the value. Red is the rarest of colours and will generally increase the value

• Remember overseas visitors are able to claim 10 per cent GST back at point of departure. Keep the item and receipt handy when departing the country

• Like a piece of art, every opal is unique. Select something you love. Wear it, enjoy it and treasure it

The National Opal Collection is a retail venue with a difference. Located in the CBD areas of Melbourne and Sydney, the showrooms display

Australia’s most comprehensive range of opals, incorporating a museum where visitors can discover the incredible link between opals and the dinosaurs.

The National Opal Collection has assembled the world’s most important collection of opalised fossils and specimens, and displayed them in a unique environment depicting dioramas of prehistoric Australia through to current day opal mining.

The National Opal Collection was formed in 2000, with its head office located in Melbourne. It is a joint venture between Cody Opal (Australia) Pty Ltd and Gemtec Pty Ltd, who for the past 35 years have been leading opal exporters, selling opal wholesale to the gem and jewellery trade throughout the world.

Opal is Australia’s national gemstone and every sale at The National Opal Collection is 100 per cent Australian opal, sourced from the outback fields.

The National Opal Collection is able to provide high quality opal and opal jewellery at competitive prices due to being involved in every step of the process, from owning opal mines, cutting and polishing, wholesale and export, design and jewellery manufacturing.

nationalopal.com

‘Like a piece of art, every opal is unique. Select something

you love’

Expert advice

Rialto Boulder Opal Ring

Opal Expert | Damien Cody

14 T h e L u x u r y G u i d e 2 0 1 5

Make a statement with a piece of opal jewellery that is sure to grab attention. Take centre stage with this Black opal ring, pavé set with green Tsavorites, from the Kaleidoscope range at The National Opal Collection. It has a unique style that will provide the wearer with a lifetime of pleasure and is a ‘forever piece’ you will treasure for eternity.

‘The beauty of opal is about true pleasure’

The opal

I adore

15T h e L u x u r y G u i d e 2 0 1 5

Pendant from the Kaleidoscope range

V isit the heart of both Sydney and Melbourne, where you can experience a little of what it is like to be in an underground opal mine.

At The National Opal Collection you will see real opal in the walls of simulated opal mines. You can also see how a piece of rough is transformed into a magnificent gem opal. In the adjoining showrooms is a treasure trove of exquisite opal jewellery available for purchase.

Nature has captured all the colours of the spectrum in opal, displaying them in an infinite variety of shades, patterns and

The

National Opal Collection

Since the 1880s, Australia’s extraordinary and beautiful gemstone,

the opal, has been mined in the outback. Today, Australia produces most of the

world’s gem quality opal

brilliance. No other gemstone can display such wonderful personality and each stone exudes its own character, allowing the wearer to own a truly unique piece of nature.

Opal formed around 20-50 million years ago from the silica-rich sands of an ancient sea bed, which is now the outback deserts of Australia.

On rare occasions, opalised fossils have been found where silica replaces a shell or bone from the dinosaur age, proving an incredible link between the two. Australia is the only place in the world where opalised animal fossils can be found. At The National Opal Collection you can see beautifully preserved opalised fossils of ancient fauna and flora, including ‘Nessie’, a 3-metre long strange monster from the deep formed 100 million years ago. Free tours of the museum include a presentation in the auditorium and opal cutting demonstrations.

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A National Opal Promotion

Black Opal Ring

Your visit to The National Opal Collection is a great opportunity to purchase an opal or opal jewellery tax free from a company involved in every step of the opal production chain, from mining and cutting through to design and creation of magnificent opal jewellery pieces.

There are four main types of natural solid opal from Australia:

BLACK OPAL

Black Opal is the most valuable type, coming mainly from Lightning Ridge NSW. High quality stones are very rare and easily distinguished by the blackness of the background ‘body tone’ or body colour.

LIGHT OPAL

Light Opal is mostly mined at Coober Pedy and Mintabie in SA, although the first deposits were at White Cliffs NSW. Stones range from transparent to nearly opaque, and they have a light or white body tone or background hue.

CRYSTAL OPAL

Crystal Opal includes light or black opal, which is transparent or very translucent. Colour can be seen from deep within the opal.

BOULDER OPAL

Boulder Opal occurs naturally in hard rock, mined predominantly in Queensland. It is easily identified because, when cut, the host rock (a brown ironstone) is left on the back of the opal.

‘Your visit to the National Opal Collection is a great opportunity to purchase an opal or opal jewellery tax free’

Pendant from the Kaleidoscope range Mintabie opal with purple sapphires

WHEREMELBOURNEThe National Opal Collection119 Swanston Street, MelbournePhone: (+61 3) 9662 3524Fax: (+61 3) 9654 9213Email: [email protected]

SYDNEYThe National Opal Collection60 Pitt Street, SydneyPhone: (+61 2) 9247 6344Fax: (+61 2) 9247 6355Email: [email protected]

Black Opal Ring with Tsavorites

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A xxxxxx Promotion

JAMES THREDGOLD

Pink Prosperity is a standout piece for James Thredgold. The stunning ring has an 0.85ct intense pink radiant cut Argyle diamond set within a white diamond halo. The hero jewel is nestled within two pear shaped diamonds surrounded by a halo of pink Argyle diamonds in 18ct white gold.

jamesthredgold.com.au

BULGARI

Treat yourself to a little luxury like these B.zero1 white gold rings – 4-band with pavé diamonds on the edges (right) or 4-band with round mounted setting pavé (left). Stores in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane.

bulgari.com

SAMBAG

Sambag is a premium Australian womenswear label, specialising in luxury footwear with unique finishes and fabrications. Founded in 1996 by Creative Director Sam Wagner, Sambag offers timeless wardrobe essentials that emulate Australian sophistication with a laid-back feel. Sambag has since grown to 12 boutiques Australia-wide with an online store servicing both local and international customers.

sambag.com

THE OLDEST FUR AND LEATHER STORE IN AUSTRALIA

Planinsek carries the largest selection of the latest international designs in fur and leather garments for men and women in Australia, as well as fur accessories – scarves, shawls and more. The store also carries a large selection of the newest styles in leather handbags and accessories as well as a wide range of leather corporate accessories and travel bags. Visit the website for the full range.

planinsek.com.au

INDULGENCE HER

A xxxxxx PromotionINDULGENCE HIM

WATERFORD CRYSTAL

The Mad Men Collection honours the ground breaking episodic drama, Mad Men and the tumultuous era of the late 1960s. The collection is officially licensed through series producer Lionsgate. Like the era it celebrates, Mad Men Draper DOF Pair is neither subtle nor inconspicuous. Available at selected David Jones, Myer and Your Habitat stores nationally.

waterfordcrystal.com.au

ADRIANO CARBONE MASTER TAILOR

Adriano Carbone Master Tailor would like to welcome everyone in Australia to the world of tailoring at its best in The Block Arcade, Melbourne. At ADRIANO Carbone each garment is individually tailored to the customer’s requirement and all garments are manufactured in The Block Arcade. With 35 years experience, ADRIANO the Master Tailor has made everything from military uniforms to wardrobe for major musicals such as Jersey Boys, Annie, Wicked and many more.

The Label ADRIANO Carbone has a made-to-order service, Tailor made, and fully hand made for those who are the enthusiasts. Their fabric choices are used throughout the world by Zegna, Scabal, Dormeuil, Holland And Sheery, Huddersfield Cloth just to mention a few.

Phone 03 9600 2422 or 0411 741 466 adriano.com.au

LEICA D-LUX

Even at first glance, the D-Lux reveals its heritage as a genuine Leica – classic elegance, timeless beauty, and particular attention to simple and intuitive handling. The change between automatic and manual modes is also particularly simple. In an instant, anyone taking it in their hands feels and sees the superior quality of both its materials and finish.

leica-camera.com

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MONTBLANC

The Montblanc TimeWalker Extreme combines masculine technology with sporty elegance and has made the TimeWalker line one of Montblanc’s most successful watch collections. Its salient features include architectonic lines, 43-millimetre case, narrow bezel and elegantly skeletonised horns, plus a large planar dial with Arabic numerals.

montblanc.com

The Luxury Guide

39

3846

42

目录2 0 1 5 年奢侈品指南

44 积家 (JAEGER- LECOULTRE)

46 国家澳宝收藏馆 (THE NATIONAL OPAL COLLECTION)

48 广告客户索引

38 宇舶 (HUBLOT)

39 萧邦 (CHOPARD)

40 FRANCK MULLER 揭开神秘面纱

41 精品推荐

42 PASPALEY �南洋之旅

38

宇舶推广

魅力

我们的地址SYDNEY

J. Farren-PriceShop 2, St James Centre80 Castlereagh Street, Sydney电话：(+61 2) 9231 3299传真：(+61 2) 9223 1992邮箱：[email protected]

圣日耳曼）如今都采用了宇舶品牌配色，许多运动员还佩

戴着宇舶的运动款腕表。

宇舶也通过 NBA 篮球合作建立了覆盖全美的战略

伙伴关系 - 东海岸的迈阿密热火队及队长德文·韦德 (Dw-

yane Wade)，西海岸的洛杉矶湖人队及传奇球星科比·布

莱恩特 (Kobe Bryant)。

宇舶 CEO Ricardo Guadalupe 在谈宇舶与 ICC 之间

的最新合作关系时说道：“这项精彩绝伦的运动将进一步

完善我们的全球市场形象，推动我们在具有高商业潜力的

国家的业务发展。我对这次合作充满期冀，为 ICC 选择

宇舶作为合作伙伴而自豪，迈克尔·克拉克加入宇舶大家

庭更是让我兴奋不已。”

为了庆贺与 ICC 的这次合作，宇舶从传统板球场和

皮球中汲取灵感，于 2015 年推出了特别限量款腕表（包

括王金和钛合金两种材质）。

宇舶代表着“一种卓尔不群的发展之路”。了解这家独具

特色的瑞士奢侈腕表公司的人都会认同这种观点，每时每

刻，宇舶都在不断发展进步，以惊人的速度塑造未来。

宇舶致力成为腕表业内独具特色、锐意创新的企业。

2006 年，宇舶成为首个进入足球赛场的奢侈品牌，其经

历如今已经成为人们耳熟能详的营销和商业成功案例。

2011 年，宇舶通过相同的方法进入篮球场，与 NBA 建立

了合作关系。宇舶与法拉利之间成功的全球协作更是脍炙

人口。

沿袭这一传统，宇舶如今也是第一个进驻板球赛场的

奢侈品牌。近来，这个瑞士奢侈腕表品牌宣布与国际板球

委员会 (ICC) 建立独家合作伙伴关系，成为 2015 年澳大

利亚和新西兰板球世界杯的官方计时合作伙伴。

为了庆贺这一最新合作，宇舶盛邀澳大利亚体育明星

迈克尔·克拉克 (Michael Clarke) 担任驻澳大利亚和新西兰

的新晋品牌大使。迈克尔本人是狂热的腕表迷，在赛场以

外也是时尚达人，与享有盛望的宇舶一拍即合。

与他同属宇舶大使的还有巴西当代传奇球王贝利

(Pelé)、世界飞人尤塞恩·博尔特 (Usain Bolt) 和知名足球

教练何塞·穆里尼奥 (José Mourinho)。

“有幸加盟宇舶这样久负盛名的品牌让我十分自

豪，”迈克尔·克拉克这样说道。“作为狂热腕表迷，宇

舶正是顺应我心意的选择，能成为宇舶的官方品牌大使是

我的荣幸。”

板球与足球赛事在不同地理环境下举办，两者完美互

补，宇舶已经成为这个领域的顶尖合作伙伴，唯一的推荐

奢侈制表品牌。包括 FIFA 世界杯™ 在内的各类重大足球

赛事以及大多数知名足球俱乐部（例如拜仁慕尼黑和巴黎

宇舶：经典融合系列之航空时计板球王

金腕表 (Classic Fusion Chrono Aerofu-sion Cricket King Gold)

经典

T h e L u x u r y G u i d e 2 0 1 5

39

这为 Chopard 丰富的历史树立起一

座新的里程碑。经典赛车系列以向汽

车世界致敬的腕表著称，该系列最

新推出了三款顶尖 Superfast 型号的

腕表。Superfast Automatic、Power

Control 和 Chrono 均配备 Fleurier

Ebauche 出品的 Chopard 机芯，充

分展现运动、精致、力量和大气的内

涵。这三款匠心之作代表着 Chopard

在自由独立之路上再进一步 - 这也是

Chopard 深铭于心的理想目标。

多年来，House of Chopard 是

许多经典传奇汽车赛事的忠实合作伙

伴，包括摩纳哥古董车大赛和一千英

里拉力赛 - 在布雷西亚与罗马之间往

返一次，赛程 1,000 英里（1,600 公

里）的拉力赛。摩纳哥古董车大赛的

许多参赛车辆都开创了自己的时代 -

例如杜拉捷、布加迪、阿斯顿马丁和

法拉利车型；而一千英里拉力赛则吸

引了许多 1979 年之前制造的一级方

程式古董车型，包括布拉汉姆车队、

莲花车队和威廉姆斯车队的车型。

Superfast 系列将精密制表世界呈现

于追求刺激、不惧权力的赛车手

面前。

时尚大气

Superfast 型号腕表采用大表盘、粗

刻度线和男性气息十足的刚健设计。

这三款最新型号 Superfast 腕表拥有

多处向赛车运动致敬之处，黑色背景

的表盘上镶嵌着银色拉丝垂直饰线，

令人不禁联想到风冷赛车引擎上的散

热片。

配备 18 克拉玫瑰金折叠式表扣

的天然橡胶表带犹如光面轮胎的平滑

胎面，高速场地赛车风范彰显无遗。

其他许多设计元素（例如经典赛

车系列橡胶铸模金制表冠上的方向盘

徽标、凸耳侧面铭刻的凹槽）都延续

了 Superfast 系列的散热片主题，表

把带有橡胶覆层，更易于抓握，表圈

上的六角螺丝灵感则来自汽车轮毂 -

一切都暗示着赛车运动世界。

经典赛车系列包含以世界汽车赛事为灵感的腕表型号，该系列如今再添新成员，三款顶尖腕表宣告 Chopard 迈进新时代。

我们的地址SYDNEYJ. Farren-PriceShop 2, St James Centre80 Castlereagh Street, Sydney电话：(+61 2) 9231 3299传真：(+61 2) 9223 1992邮箱：[email protected]

SuperfastSuperfast Automatic

SuperfastSuperfast Chrono

SuperfastSuperfast Power Control

SuperfastChopard 推广

T h e L u x u r y G u i d e 2 0 1 5

Destinations Australia 2015

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