Jetsettersblog

Teleconferences are out. Business travel is back in. Peppers Hotels, Resorts and Apartments has an array of deals for corporate travellers and conference organisers.

FRASER COAST, QUEENSLAND
MEMORABLE EVENTS: For conferencing in style consider the full-day delegate packages from $50* per person at the popular Peppers Pier Resort in Hervey Bay. This special rate includes conference room hire, morning and afternoon tea, a conference luncheon, pads, pens, mints, iced water, flipchart, whiteboard and complimentary data projector hire. Valid for sale until March 31 for conferences held before June 30, 2011 for a minimum of 20 delegates. Great accommodation choices are also available. Call 07 4194 9700 or email pierresort.conf@peppers.com.au.

TROPICAL NORTH QUEENSLAND
BUSINESS & LEISURE: Escape to the haven of Port Douglas for business with a touch of leisure, with a great Conference Special at the stylish Peppers Beach Club for conferences booked by May 31 and held before June 24. A full-day delegates package starts from $45* per person, with single share accommodation from $224* per person, including waking up to a sumptuous Continental Breakfast daily. Book your conference for between 8 and 25 delegates and receive a complimentary two-hour team building experience ‘Race Around Port Douglas’. This will allow delegates to explore the region’s sites, plus guests can enjoy the resort’s private swim-up pool decks around a lagoon pool, lush tropical gardens and perhaps indulge in the onsite Exclusive Spa. Call 07 4087 1000 or email portdouglas.events@peppers.com.au.

IT’S A DEAL: It is hard to refuse the combination of the inviting tropical location of Palm Cove, the fantastic facilities of Peppers Beach Club & Spa and a great deal when it comes to doing business. Book your beachside conference before March 31 receive a complimentary 30-minute drinks and canapé package for one evening during your conference. Also, for every 10 delegates booked on a day delegate package, receive one day delegate package for free, along with free data projection and screen hire for each day of the conference. Plus choose between a complimentary return seat in coach airport transfers or 10 per cent discount on the total food and beverage bill during one on-site dinner function. Full-day delegate packages start from $45* per person and single share accommodation starts from $203* per person, including breakfast. This offer is available for conferences held before June 30th, with delegate numbers between 40-80 guests. Call 07 4059 9275 or email vanessa.pope@peppers.com.au

SMART MOVE: Make an executive decision to hold your coming conference at the stunning Peppers Balé Resort in Port Douglas, and add a dash of unsurpassed luxury and style to your event with lush rainforest surroundings and pavilion accommodation inspired by South East Asian architecture. Book your meeting before May 31, to be held by June 24 in a Sanctuary occupied by two or more delegates for the duration of the conference, and the delegate rate will be halved*. Full-day delegate rate is from $120* and half-day delegate rate is from $75*, with a One Bedroom Sanctuary priced from $610* per night, including breakfast for two. This resort’s luxuriously appointed four bedroom Sanctuaries provide a wonderfully unique meeting experience and can cater for up to 18 delegates. Dining options range from a personalised barbecue in the sanctuary to fine dining in the onsite restaurant, and themed events at the beach or in the rainforest setting are very popular. Call 07 4084 3000 or email bale@peppers.com.au.

MAGNETIC ISLAND, QUEENSLAND
CONFERENCE CALL: There’s so much to experience on Magnetic Island, from the amazing natural attractions to the allure of Peppers Blue on Blue Resort, the ideal location for a conference. Book a conference for 40 to 80 delegates before May 31 and enjoy an hour of island-style welcome drinks and canapés with stunning views of the Magnetic Island marina. Full-day delegate packages start from $68* per person and single share accommodation is from $176* per person in a stylish Hotel Room with a full buffet breakfast daily. This uniquely located resort is just 20 minutes by Fastcat ferry from Townsville. Call 07 4758 2407 or email events.blueonblue@peppers.com.au.

THE WHITSUNDAYS, QUEENSLAND
WORK, REST & PLAY: Combine the best of everything at Peppers Coral Coast Resort in the holiday wonderland of Airlie Beach, where you can grab great conference specials. Book before May 31 to hold a conference before June 30 for a minimum of 30 full-day delegate packages and receive complimentary room hire for your conference dinner and a spa voucher to the value of $100 for the event organiser. Plus receive a complimentary 30-minute welcome or post-conference reception, or 30-minute pre-dinner cocktail reception if more than 50 delegates are booked on a full-day delegate package, which start from $58* per person. Single share accommodation is from $245* per night including a tasty breakfast. Peppers Coral Coast Resort boasts the delightful Tides Restaurant & Bar, magnificent views of the Whitsunday Passage and islands, a welcoming pool and a free shuttle bus from the resort to Airlie Beach town centre running between 9am and 7pm. Call 07 4962 5100 or email sandi.holman@peppers.com.au.

SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS, NEW SOUTH WALES
BUSINESS BUILDER: If you need a place for your upcoming conference then aim to impress with the first class facilities at Peppers Manor House. Superb meals include a complimentary stay for two people with events booked between February and April, with events booking 10 rooms or more receiving a free 10-minute head or shoulder massage for delegates, a complimentary group boot camp session for bookings of 30 rooms or more and a complimentary bottle of local wine for delegates when 60 or more rooms are booked. Single accommodation starts at $179* per night including breakfast, a full-day delegate package is $60 and half-day is $50 per person.
Visit www.peppers.com.au or call 02 4860 3111.

DAYLESFORD, VICTORIA
BEST FOR BUSINESS: Peppers Springs Retreat and Mineral Spa in Hepburn Springs has a Refreshing Summer Events conference special for delegates venturing to the beautiful Daylesford and Macedon Ranges region. A full-day delegate package is from $65* and accommodation is from $195* per night single share , or from $180* per night single share if 40 room nights or more are booked before March 9, 2011. The retreat offers enjoyable activities and a stunning setting for a summer conference or event, with refreshing mineral pools and water therapy treatments at the award-winning Mineral Spa, a fully-air conditioned conference centre for up to 80 and healthy summer menus. There’s also a range of mineral water bush walks nearby, together with Daylesford Lake – a great option for boating, kayaking and water activities. Let our experienced conference and events team tailor a complete program. Prices are midweek, Sunday to Thursday. Call 03 5321 6273 or email rhiannon.campbell@peppers.com.au.

GREAT OCEAN ROAD, VICTORIA
CONFERENCE SPECIAL: Whether you have a cosy 10 or a busy 400 delegates to impress, Peppers The Sands in Torquay can help you make the most with its summer special for conferences. Just over an hour from Melbourne, this premium golf resort features 112 various guest rooms, a state of the art conference centre, indoor pool, gymnasium and restaurant. Single studio rooms start at $209* per night including breakfast, with a conferencing day package rate of $65* per person, which is $5 off the standard rate. Add a round of golf for $65 per person, including 18 holes with cart hire. Valid for new bookings only and for events held before March 31. Call 03 5264 3333 or email ebony.kirk@peppers.com.au.

*Conditions apply. Subject to availability.

If wine is your passion, but the closest to making a bottle of wine has been wandering the isles of the large retail stores, then a tour of Queensland Icon Ballandean Estate Wines is something you should do soon.

Tours of the award winning Ballandean Estate Wines are conducted daily from the Cellar Door and are an informative yet easy to comprehend, overview of the winemaking process.

“The most common thing our guests say after a winery tour is ‘I had no idea this is how wine is made’ ” says Leeanne Puglisi-Gangemi, client relations manager of Ballandean Estate “We cater for small groups, school groups and coach companies, and the tours are basically the same but vary depending on how much the guests would like to know. Sometimes, our guests will want very detailed information regarding baume, yeast types, and other technical issues, or other times the kids on tour will ask a question like ‘how many grapes go into making on bottle of wine’ our trained staff – always a member of the family, can answer these questions for you.”

During vintage (end of Feb to end of April), guests on tour are often treated to the grape crushing or pressing and the winery is filled with the gorgeous aromas of wine fermenting – if you love wine, there is no better time to visit a working winery.

Heading to Ballandean is not difficult after the floods and all accommodation houses are waiting for your call, why not make this year, your year to experience vintage at Ballandean and head on up, we will have the wine chilled and waiting for you!

With more than 4100 hotels in over 850 destinations globally, leading hotel group Accor has released its list of the 11 hottest destinations for 2011, highlighting the destinations and hotels that should be on the itinerary for every world traveller. While some are largely undiscovered destinations, others are cities that deserve to be revisited and that have reinvented or reinvigorated themselves for the new year.

1) THE WILD WEST OF CHINA – Lost Horizon found

While the focus over the past few years has been on China’s major cities – with Beijing hosting the Olympics and Shanghai the World Trade Fair – Australian travelers are renowned for looking beyond the obvious, especially when there is adventure and romance on offer.

China’s north-west Yunnan province is relatively undiscovered by tourism and yet offers history, spectacular scenery and the legend of the Lost Horizon. A new Pullman hotel will open in the historic city of Lijiang – famous for its cobblestone streets, original wooden houses and gushing canals – in March and it will provide the perfect gateway for exploring this remarkable region. Start the exploration in Lijiang and then plan trips to see sites such as Tiger Leaping Gorge and then onto Lost Horizon territory and the town of Shangri-La, or Zhongdian, as the Chinese call it. Set 3300 metres above sea level, there is no better place to read James Hilton’s Lost Horizon than in the atmospheric Songstram Retreat MGallery, which overlooks Shangri-la. The town’s historical Songzanlin Si Monastery dates back to 1679 but it is the natural beauty of the area that really makes this a special destination. With just 24 dry-stone villas spread over two acres, the MGallery showcases the finest Tibetan traditions, with handcrafted furniture, deep timber bath tubs and raised bed platforms above lounge areas complete with private fireplaces – and all overlooking those mesmerising views.

Note: China is the only place in the world where you can stay in an Accor hotel in a place called Shangri-la, written up in a book by Hilton.

2) HANOI – Indochine chic with operatic overtures

With Hanoi’s 1000th birthday celebrations over, this is the time to savour this city rich in history and character. Home to the famed Sofitel Metropole, Accor has just launched a new hotel that might not have the century-old history of the Metropole but has plenty of French style and elegance. In the centre of Hanoi, Hotel de l’Opera MGallery is just a step away from the Opera House, the Old Quarter and Hoan Kiem Lake. It brings together the best of Hanoi – Colonial accents, theatrical interior design and contemporary public spaces. Each of the 107 rooms is a sanctuary of comfort, with 21st century connections and old-world elegance. Its Le La Fée Verte (The Green Fairy) bar is set to become the hottest nightspot in the city. A metaphor for the decadence of the Belle Epoque era, it takes you back to the bars of 1920s Paris where an evening drink becomes a lavish ritual. MGallery ambassador, Kristin Scott Thomas, opened the hotel in January 2011 and you can live like a movie star, luxuriating in the MGallery in between discovering Hanoi’s lakes, leafy boulevards, colonial heritage and fascinating history. Hanoi blends the exotic chic of old Asia with the modern, in a city where imagination becomes reality.

3) PHNOM PENH – there’s more to Cambodia than just Angkor Wat

Since Pol Pot was forced out of Cambodia, tourists have returned in vast numbers to discover the beauty of Angkor Wat, but the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh, is set to stake its claim as a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with its own special attributes. Once known as the “Pearl of Asia” the city was noted for its French colonial architecture and its strategic position at the meeting of four rivers but today it is known as one of the most dynamic cities in Asia, having experienced huge growth in recent years with new hotels, restaurants and bars springing up around the city. One of these new hotels, the USD$50 million Sofitel Phnom Penh opened on 4th January 2011, with eight restaurants and bars, and the city’s first purpose-built day spa of its kind. As Phnom Penh’s first new five-star hotel since the 1990s, the Sofitel will make Phnom Penh a must-visit destination for upscale travellers who have previously not been adequately catered for outside of Siem Reap. The Sofitel’s cityside front nestles against Phnom Penh’s charming old French quarter, itself in the midst of a major make-over, within walking distance of the Royal Palace, the National Museum and Sisowath Quay.

4) AUCKLAND – ready to kick goals

The Ashes may have been lost but there’s always the William Webb Ellis trophy…and surely it’s time to bring back Bill! If that’s to happen, Australia will need to be standing tall in Auckland later this year, probably with the All Blacks crushed into the mud. The eyes of the world will be on Auckland for the Rugby World Cup in October 2011, but Accor says the city will be a hot destination all year round. The prospect of hosting the World Cup has seen the entire city spruced up for the influx of visitors, with new a beautification program that includes transforming Queens Wharf, Aotea Square and Eden Park. As the biggest and most cosmopolitan city in New Zealand, Auckland has something for every taste, from beautiful beaches to world-class vineyards, and from island retreats to cultural attractions, plus the country’s best shopping and dining. Accor is opening a new Novotel at Auckland Airport in 2011, and last week took over management of the former Hyatt Hotel in the CBD and have transformed it into a Pullman.

5) MAURITIUS – SO Spicy

Mauritius has been on the wish list of many Australians for years, but this year it is even easier to reach thanks to the launch of additional air services. Brimming with historic sights, cultural diversity, virgin rainforests, sand-rimmed lagoons and spectacular beaches, Mauritius boasts one of the world’s most global food scenes, with strong French influences in addition to Chinese, Indian and African. Its laidback, welcoming atmosphere and the infectious party spirit of the locals make it truly a paradise on earth. This year Mauritius is even more tempting, with the launch of Sofitel So Mauritius, a luxury boutique hotel with interior design by Kenzo Takada, food by three Michelin star Chef Frederic Anton, and a radically new architectural style by Thai designer Lek Bunnag. With its blend of French sophistication along with Indian and Creole influences, the So Mauritius is set on 34 acres of pristine beachfront, with just 92 detached villas and suites offering complete privacy (many with their own pool) and a luxurious day spa offering signature treatments such as Hibiscus Therapy or a Golden Needles facelift. Located near the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Morne Brabant, this is the first of Sofitel’s signature SO boutique designer hotels.

6) NSW BLUE MOUNTAINS – Cinderella will go to the ball

Tourism to the Blue Mountains in NSW has been down in recent years, but 2011 will see the spotlight firmly on this World Heritage-listed region which boasts some of the most dramatic natural attractions in all of Australia. With endless rainforests, canyons, caves and waterfalls to explore, the Blue Mountains is the perfect destination for adventurers and nature lovers. In 2011 one of the true tourism icons of the region will return to its original splendor as the Fairmont Resort has joined Accor’s upmarket MGallery label and will undergo a major renovation. Works have already begun at the 201-room hotel and it has signaled a return to health for tourism in the area, as once more there is a quality world-class hotel that caters for families, couples and conferences. Set right next to the 18-hole Leura Golf Course, the Fairmont is a destination in itself, with an extensive array of leisure facilities including two restaurants, a lounge bar, indoor and outdoor pools, tennis and squash courts, gym, indoor theatre and day spa. This year will see the addition of a new deck overlooking the spectacular Jamison Valley, the return of the famous paddle boats and the addition of a kids club, along with other improvements.

7) BLOOMSBURY, LONDON – Blooming lovely

London is all abuzz with preparations for the Royal Wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton as well as for the 2012 Olympic Games so this is definitely the year to visit, especially with the dollar so strong against the pound. And one area of London, Bloomsbury, will enjoy a special spotlight this year, thanks to its reinvention from fashionable residential area to tourism hotspot. Famous for its beautiful gardens, literary connections (Charles Dickens, Virginia Woolf and William Yeats all lived here) and formal squares, Bloomsbury is home to the British Museum, the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art and now the new Mercure Bloomsbury. The historic property, originally built by relatives of Sir Walter Scott, was formerly the Waverley Hotel, named after one of his novels. Following an extensive renovation program, it has now been relaunched as the Mercure. A new bar and kitchen are to open by March and all guest rooms and public areas have already undergone a major make-over – just like London is doing.

LEGIAN, BALI – Leg it to Paradise

Bali has always been popular but this year the spotlight will be on Legian, which is drawing visitors from the adjacent Kuta and Seminyak beaches as they discover that Legian offers the best of both worlds. Until now the area has lacked a truly international 5-star hotel, but that is set to change with the imminent opening of the brand new Pullman Legian Nirwana. Inspired by the shape of frangipani petals, the Pullman is a brand new beachfront resort, offering Balinese hospitality from a new perspective. In a stylish, chic urban style, the resort features 351 spacious rooms and suites, a rooftop infinity pool and a freeform garden pool. A Kids Club and Teen Club make it perfect for families while an extensive line-up of dining options including a rooftop pool bar mean couples and honeymooners will love it too. In Balinese, the word ‘Legian’ means “delightful to the senses” and the Pullman certainly guarantees to delight your senses on every level.

9) HOBART – Inn like Flynn

The opening of the Museum of Old and New Art (MONA) in Hobart has made the world take another look at the Tasmanian capital, with the city enjoying a renewed sense of vitality. The largest private museum in Australia, the MONA is home to the $100 million art collection of David Walsh. Set on the banks of the Derwent River, the controversial museum has taken Australia’s second oldest city by storm. Also blending old and new, the Grand Mercure Hadley’s is about to unveil its $30 million new wing including 128 luxury suites, a grand ballroom and extensive food and beverage outlets. The new wing is adjacent to the historic 71-room National Trust-listed hotel, which was built in 1834 and has played host to some of the most celebrated characters in history including Errol Flynn and Antarctic explorer Roald Amundsen. Hadleys is the oldest continuously operating boutique hotel in Tasmania and provides a unique contrast of old and new on the Hobart landscape – and this is definitely the year to check it out.

10) RIO DE JANEIRO – Shake your marraccas in Rio

Rio made Peter Allen feel like dancing and the city’s legendary party status will be further enhanced with the release of 20th Century Fox’s Film ‘Rio’ later this year. The word Rio conjures up immediate images – of the colourful Carnavale, Ipanema and Copacabana beaches, sultry samba rhythms and the iconic statue of Christ the Redeemer. Its people are amongst the most passionate and welcoming in the world and are always ready for a party but it also boasts lush green mountains and waterfalls which allow for quiet moments of contemplation. One of the newest hotels to open in Rio is the Novotel which boasts stylish rooms in the city’s financial and business district, close to the best tourist attractions, cultural and entertainment hot spots.

11) DUBAI – Who said Fire & Ice can’t be mixed together?

While Dubai has been a hot destination for a number of years, 2011 is the year to go with many building projects having been completed in the last 12 months and a renewed sense of vigour to the city following the global financial crisis. In a city renowned for its hot weather, the new five-star Pullman Dubai offers direct access to the Middle East’s only indoor ski field as well as the most glamorous shopping in the region. With spectacular views over the city to the Gulf of Oman, the 24-storey Pullman Dubai Mall of the Emirates boasts a refined blend of oriental and international inspirations and features two rooftop pools, a Shisha lounge, wine bar, two restaurants, fitness centre and luxurious day spa.

To find out more about these hot destinations and the hot hotels in which to stay go to www.accorhotels.com

Central Coast, New South Wales is delighted to shout from the roof tops that their brand spanking new website is now live. The leisure website has been refreshed with new branding that characterizes the Central Coast’s natural assets, the envy of many. The Central Coast is located one hour’s drive north of Sydney and is Australia’s premier lifestyle and waterfront destination.

Ollie Philpot, Chief Executive Officer, Central Coast Tourism confirms ‘our new website now encapsulates the vibrant essence of the Central Coast and its lifestyle. The site has been designed to provide a user friendly experience, with enhanced user capabilities, simple site navigation and interactive online guides. With over 80% of leisure seekers using the internet to research and plan their travel, this site will become an invaluable tool for anyone planning to spend leisure time on the New South Wales’ Central Coast.’

The new site features detailed information on the six distinctive regions of the Central Coast, each with their own unique character and style. The extensive range of coastal experiences are highlighted under the ‘Play’ tab including Water, Land and Adventure Activities, National Park, Beaches, Culture and Indulgence, and Dining and Entertainment. Under ‘Stay’ the diverse mix of accommodation from simple campsites through to luxury international class hotels such as Crowne Plaza Terrigal are showcased. All this combined with a secure booking service provides a one stop online experience for people wanting to discover the New South Wales’ Central Coast.

‘We also feature a ‘Free’ category as some of the best things in life are free and some of those ‘best things’ are on the Central Coast’. Philpot adds.

Philpot confirms ‘the site has been a long time in the making but we are thrilled with it and are confident that the improvements will provide a superior experience for online visitors’. Check it out for yourself at www.visitcentralcoast.com.au

About Central Coast Tourism
Central Coast Tourism Inc. is non-profit and financially supported from its own industry base (through a membership structure), by Gosford City and Wyong Shire Councils and also Tourism NSW. Its role is to develop, market and promote the region as a significant tourist destination in the domestic and international markets, to achieve increased visitation/expenditure, and to provide customer service to visitors and to its members.

The tourism industry plays an influential role in shaping the Central Coast’s economy, with visitor expenditure exceeding $759 million* annually. As the tourism industry continues to grow, Central Coast Tourism helps the Gosford and Wyong Shires prosper through its destination marketing efforts. *Source: Tourism NSW, Visitor Statistics YE Sep 10

Includes:
• 3 night’s accommodation at Alexander Lakeside B&B with breakfast daily
• Complimentary cheese platter & local bottle of wine on arrival
• 2 passes for 1 day luxury Hummer tour of Fraser Island
• 2 passes for a 1 day remote tour of Fraser Island
• Optional transfers from Hervey Bay airport (extra cost applies)

Alexander Lakeside Bed and Breakfast is a multi-award winning, 4.5 star modern purpose built luxury home peacefully surrounded by a wildlife lake in Hervey Bay. Enjoy a hot tropical breakfast overlooking the lake daily then participate in our turtle feeding as you watch the abundant bird life. Two luxuriously appointed rooms & two luxury self-contained suites are available with private ensuite bathrooms. Other guest facilities include wireless internet, fax, push bikes, BBQ, laundry, solar heated lakeside spa (closed in winter),dining & lounge with full entertainment system, outdoor dining & lounge, all overlooking the lake.

See the untouched and unique side of Fraser Island onboard the comfortable Tasman Venture. Transfer to the Western Beach of Fraser to enjoy the crystal clear waters of Wathumba creek and amazing panoramic views of the Sandy Cape Lighthouse. You can kayak, swim, snorkel with the turtles, beach fish or enjoy a bush walk. Our friendly and accredited staff will inform you all about the history of Fraser Island, turtles, dolphins, birds and the diverse vegetation of Fraser Island. Departing daily from Hervey Bay complimentary transfers, morning tea and buffet lunch and all activities included.

Award winning 1 Day Hummer day tour is the ultimate way to see Fraser Island! No other company offers the thrill of a H3 Hummer and a guaranteed maximum of 4 guests per tour; promising personalised service from our experienced and friendly guides. Departing daily from Hervey Bay inclusions are; complimentary transfers from accommodation, itinerary showcasing the highlights of Fraser Island, national park fees, all meals and beverages including beer, wine and champagne.

Total Package Prices
Sunrise Room $1,185
Lakeview Room $1,215
Sunrise self contained suite $1,245
Lakeview self contained suite $1,275

* Package price is per person twin share, single supplements not available. Package is valid to 31 March 2011. Only available to new and direct bookings through Fraser Experience Tours, Alexander Lakeside Bed & Breakfast or Tasman Venture Remote Fraser Tour.

It’s all about dolphins and dugongs on the Gold Coast Broadwater over the past week with the crew aboard the Sea World Cruises vessel Spirit of Migloo reporting a series of close encounters with these elusive marine mammals during their day tours.

Brisbane floodwaters are forcing dugongs southward to unaffected areas like the Gold Coast Broadwater. The Broadwater is a confluence of the Nerang, Coomera, Pimpama and Logan rivers and did not suffer from flooding. Bottlenose Dolphins are also using the Gold Coast Broadwater as a refuge after the recent unsettled conditions offshore.

“The huge volumes of polluted and muddy water spilling into Moreton Bay from the Brisbane floods is likely to drive some resident dugongs north and south and even out to sea,” says Sea World Cruises marine biologist Silje Vindenes. “Like dolphins, they are very sensitive to any change in their environment and the recent floods may have caused them to move to other areas in search of food.”

Brisbane’s dugongs feed almost exclusively on the seagrass that grows on shallow sandbanks in Moreton Bay. They grow to 3 metres long, weigh over 400 kilograms and can live more than 70 years. Moreton Bay supports a resident population of around 400 animals Moreton Bay is connected to the Gold Coast Broadwater by a network of tidal channels.

Ms Vindenes says it’s a real treat to see a dugong in the Gold Coast Broadwater.

“The dugongs obviously think it’s time for a holiday on the Gold Coast because they rarely venture this far south. Our passengers get really excited. They can’t believe they’re seeing a dugong on the Gold Coast right next to all the big waterfront mansions.”

Encounters with the Broadwater’s resident Bottlenose Dolphins are also on the rise.

We’ve been seeing a lot of Bottlenose Dolphins in the Broadwater – more than usual – and these may have moved in from offshore waters because of the recent bad weather,” says Ms Vindenes, “This week we’ve seen our old pals “Sharky” and “Chopper” cruising along together.”Chopper” has most of his dorsal fin missing and “Sharky” has an unusual nick out of his fin that makes him look like a shark.

“Over a three year period we’ve created a database of dolphin photos and given them names based on their damaged dorsal fins,” says Ms Vindenes. “Unfortunately, just about every dolphin we see on the Broadwater has been scarred in some way by boat strike. So they are easy to recognize.”

Despite the high boat traffic on the Broadwater, the dolphins seem to be thriving.

“The Gold Coast Broadwater is their home for a large part of the year and they seem to be increasing in numbers despite their injuries. We are seeing lots of calves at the moment.”

About Sea World Cruises

• Sea World Cruises have an impressive $1.5M on-board “theatre” that entertains and informs with a colourful, interactive mix of 3D animation, Real-Time Tour Map technology and exceptional photos of the wildlife most often encountered during a tour.

• Our expert tour guides use these tools to broaden and deepen the understanding of the local marine environment for our passengers. One of our most popular 3D animation sequences about climate change shows how the Gold Coast would appear after a rise in sea level of only a metre. This sequence has a particular resonance after the Brisbane floods.

• Sea World Cruises operate calm water day cruises on the Gold Coast Broadwater with a choice of two stopovers for lunch with wine at either Couran Cove Island Resort or Sanctuary Cove Marine Village.

• The Sea World Cruises vessel is the $3.5M Spirit of Migloo, the Gold Coast’s most luxurious tourist vessel. Three levels of viewing decks, large tinted windows and first class seating provide a superior level of luxury and comfort. Spirit of Migloo is custom designed for environmentally friendly marine nature tourism with ultra-quiet, low emission engines, toilet waste holding tanks and dolphin-friendly keel.

• Cruises depart every day from the Sea World Cruise Terminal in the carpark outside Sea World at 10.00am and return at 4.00pm. Entry to Sea World is not required.

• Day cruise includes LUNCH with a glass of WINE for only $69 Adult and $59 Child.

Hyatt Hotel Canberra – A Park Hyatt Hotel is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Mikael Svennsson as general manager, effective January 2011. Mr. Svensson will replace Mr. Karl Diefenbach who had been the hotel’s general manager for the past ten years.

Born in Stockholm, Sweden, Mr. Svensson brings to Hyatt Hotel Canberra – A Park Hyatt Hotel 17 years’ experience with the company in varying roles.

After graduating from the Hosta Hotel School in Leysin, Switzerland, in 1991, Mr. Svensson joined the Century Hong Kong Hotel in various food and beverage roles, setting a precedent for his career. Food and beverage positions with Hyatt hotels in South Korea, Hong Kong and Taiwan resulted in him being named director of food and beverage at Hyatt Regency Osaka, which was followed by general manager positions at Hyatt International’s Roppongi Hills Club in Tokyo and Hyatt Regency Hua Hin, Thailand, in 2007, his most recent position.

Hyatt Hotel Canberra – A Park Hyatt Hotel is surrounded by hectares of landscaped gardens on the shores of Lake Burley Griffin in the heart of Australia’s diplomatic enclave only minutes from the city centre. A short stroll from the hotel puts visitors in the midst of Canberra’s award-winning galleries and attractions.

About Hyatt Hotels Corporation
Hyatt Hotels Corporation, headquartered in Chicago, is a leading global hospitality company with a proud heritage of making guests feel more than welcome. Thousands of members of the Hyatt family in 45 countries strive to make a difference in the lives of the guests they encounter every day by providing authentic hospitality. The Company’s subsidiaries manage, franchise, own and develop hotels and resorts under the Hyatt®, Park Hyatt®, Andaz®, Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt Place® and Hyatt Summerfield Suites® brand names, and have locations under development on five continents. Hyatt Residential Group, Inc., a Hyatt Hotels Corporation subsidiary, develops and operates vacation ownership properties under the Hyatt Vacation Club® brand. As of 30 September 2010, the Company’s worldwide portfolio consisted of 447 properties. For more information, please visit www.hyatt.com

Our guides will lead you through one of the world’s most pristine and unique environments.

With its lush rainforest, towering hardwood forests, endless golden beaches and crystal clear freshwater lakes and streams, Fraser Island is a precious natural wonder.

This stunning world heritage listed paradise is also home to Australia’s most pure Dingo blood line as well as many other species of Australian wildlife.

We are privileged to have been granted permission to locate our base camp on land owned by the island’s traditional owners, the Batjala people. A number of the Aboriginal elders live at the base camp on the island and will often share stories about their land and culture.

Our base camp offers permanent tent sites with covered BBQ cooking facilities(all crockery, cutlery and utensils provided) and access to fresh water showers and toilets. This means no more hassle setting up your tent and more time to explore the Island!

Our Tag along tour features:

• Late model Land Cruiser lead vehicles
• Satellite phone, cable winch and recovery kit for each tour
• An appointed guide with a maximum of 7 passengers in the lead vehicle
• Professional local guides with an extensive knowledge of the island

The beautiful Nomads Hervey Bay resort is located less than a minute from the beach and Hervey Bay’s cafes and features tropical gardens, swimming pool, large air conditioned bar with colonial style veranda overlooking the pool, air conditioned double and 4 share en suite dorm rooms and Didgeridoo making school with indigenous craftsman in the hostel.

WE INCLUDE:
• 2 nights at Nomads Hervey Bay resort in spacious dorms
• Free pick up from the bus terminal
• Safety approved 4WD vehicles…. easy to drive!
• Your 4WD will have a full tank of fuel on collection
• Well maintained camping equipment
• 2 nights at our permanent camp site on the island
• Experienced, knowledgeable and fun guide
+ FREE EVENING MEAL AT OUR HERVEY BAY RESORT ON YOUR ARRIVAL AND DEPARTURE DAY

LOCAL FEE $70 per person, includes:
• Insurance reducer
• Return passage on the ferry
• Camping permit
• Vehicle permit for access to Fraser Island
EXTRAS:
• Your tour doesn’t include meals (allow approx. $ 5 – $10 / day)
• Sleeping bag hire available for $ 15 per trip (or bring your own)
• A bond of $1,250 per vehicle is required to be paid by
the group prior to the departure. This is taken in cash and will be
refunded when the vehicle is returned undamaged in full working
condition and has not been driven through salt water.

NOMADS FRASER ISLAND HIGHLIGHTS:
• Swim in the fresh waters of Lake McKenzie
• Visit the Maheno Shipwreck
• Be in awe of the spectacular views from Indian Head
• Relax in the ‘Champagne Pools’
• Take a trek to the Hammerstone Sandblow
• Explore the tropical rainforests of Central Station
• See the coloured sands of the Cathedrals
• Admire fresh water turtle at Lake Allom
• Drive 4×4 along 75 mile beach
• Explore the sand dunes
• Swim in Lake Wabby
• Picnic at Lake Garawongera
• Float down the fast flowing freshwater at Eli Creek Departures vary throughout the year
(ask your travel agent or call Nomads Hervey Bay

WHAT TO BRING:
• A small day backpack
• Camera
• A current driver’s license (for those over the age of 21
who wish to drive)
• Sunscreen, hat, towel and swimmers
• Insect repellent and appropriate clothing
• Sleeping bag (or you can hire one) and pillow

On Saturday 26th March 2011 the Mudgee Region is offering a ‘sensory feast’ with the inaugural ‘Region on the River 100 Mile Picnic’ during the day, followed by the ‘Mudfest International Short Film Festival’ at dusk.

“It will be a tasty date for food and culture lovers to visit Mudgee for the day or a weekend – attend the events and spend an extra day or two exploring the 50 cellar doors, cafes, restaurants and farm-gates spotted around the Region.” said Lucy White.

“Autumn is a picturesque time to visit and the Region has lots of exciting developments and new wines for visitors to try. Restaurants are devising ’100 mile’ menus and platters, new organic wineries are popping up, and we are leading the way in biodynamics and more sustainable farming practices.” said Lucy.

The Region on the River 100 Mile Picnic will be held in Lawson Park, on the banks of the Cudgegong River. Over 30 wineries, chefs and producers from the Central West will sell their delectable picnic goodies and share their approach to sourcing and eating sustainably from within 100 miles (160km) of the dining table.

Free for all the family from 12-7pm, it is expected to attract 3,000 people with entertainment for children including sheep sheering, bands and street theatre.

“This eco-friendly picnic will be a celebration of the Mudgee Region’s commitment to eating locally for global change and aims to educate consumers on how they can alter their buying habits and diet,” said Lucy White, CEO of Mudgee Region Tourism Inc.

A picnic wish-list of attendees includes Gooree Park wagyu beef, cheeses from High Valley, Fish River Roasters coffee, platters from A Slice of Orange, Rebecca Sutton’s Molong Gelato, Wellington Lamb and beer from the Mudgee Brewery. Wineries include Lowe Family Wines, Robert Oatley Vineyards, Robert Stein, Frog Rock, Logan, DeBeaurepaire, Vinifera, Burnbrae, Thistle Hill, Swinging Bridge (Canowindra) and Stone Pine Distillery (Bathurst).

Time and location: 12-7pm; Address: Lawson Park, Short Street, Mudgee
Contact: Event organiser Ray Whitfield on ph: (02) 6373 3176 or 0414 748 748

The 7th Mudfest International Short Film Festival is the Mudgee Region’s biggest cultural event of the year and has a new home this year at Bunnamagoo Estate Wines. Set on the lawns outside the new cellar door and winery, enjoy live music and watch 14 short films with hundreds of local film buffs. The vineyard is a magical atmosphere at night, and this year’s contest will be hotter than ever with a record number of 600 entries received from all over the world. Gates open 6pm and tickets cost $25pp including a glass of wine.

“It’s an exciting development for the festival to have a new venue at Bunnamagoo Estate. Our audience has come to really embrace the whole outdoor cinema experience of wine, food and films.” said Mike O’Malley, Event Organiser.

Venue: Gates open 6pm. Bunnamagoo Estate Wines Henry Lawson Drive, Mudgee
Tickets on sale through the official website: www.mudfest.com.au, the Butcher Shop Café in Mudgee, Bunnamagoo Estate cellar door (02) 6372 3899 and MRTI on (02) 6372 1020.

The Mudgee Region is a 3.5 hour drive from Sydney in Central NSW. For more information on the events, tickets and touring contact the Mudgee Visitor Information Centre on ph (02) 6372 1020 or go to www.visitmudgeeregion.com.au

When it comes to choosing the perfect no fuss holiday, look no further than a houseboating holiday on our own Gold Coast waterways from Coomera Houseboats.

Coomera Houseboats has been operating Australia’s largest fleet of quality houseboats and cruisers for nearly 30 years and boasts a fleet of houseboats and cruisers ranging from 30′ to 60′ in length and from 2 berth to 12 berth.

Coomera Houseboats is conveniently located at Gold Coast City Marina behind Dreamworld.

All boats are equipped with the best and latest fittings just like you would expect from a quality holiday apartment.

No licence of any type is needed to be able to enjoy a houseboat holiday on our beautiful waters. The team at Coomera Houseboats will give your crew a complete briefing on the boat and the waterways before you go to ensure a safe and fun holiday.

Call the team at Coomera Houseboats Holidays for a brochure or check out our web site www.houseboat.net.au