Your Guide to Regional NSW

Transcription

YOUR GUIDE TO
REGIONAL NSW
MAY – DECEMBER 2014
REGIONAL NSW
THE BEST OF
NEW SOUTH WALES
An exciting season of events, thrilling adventures, and standout food and wine experiences await
you in NSW. From May to December, you’ll also find some of Australia’s very best short break
experiences right here. With five World Heritage areas, 14 official wine regions, 867 national
parks and reserves, and a coastline of stunning beaches, there’s a long list of possibilities for
fun, adventure and relaxation.
Bar Beach, Newcastle
CONNECT WITH REGIONAL NSW
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CONTENTS
The Best of NSW
3
Northern Rivers
23
@visitnsw
New South Wales Regions
4
South Coast
24
#NewSouthWales
Did You Know...?
5
Southern Highlands and Tablelands
25
Mid North Coast
26
twitter.com/nswtips
plus.google.com/+visitnsw
visitnsw.com
CONNECT WITH SYDNEY
facebook.com/seesydney
Food & Wine
6 -7
Oyster Trails
8
The Murray
27
Farm Gates & Picnics
9
New England North West
28
Central Coast
29
twitter.com/sydney_sider
Country Pubs
@sydney
Restaurants11
The Hunter
30
Taste & Learn
12
Snowy Mountains
32
National Parks & Family Fun
13
Central NSW
33
Adventure Awaits!
14
The Riverina
34
Outback NSW
35
#ilovesydney
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sydney.com
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Regional NSW Event Highlights 10
16 -18
twitter.com/vividsydney
It’s ON! in 2015
19
Lord Howe Island
36
@vividsydney
Plan. Book. Share!
20
Spotlight on Sydney
37
Blue Mountains
22
Vivid 2014 Highlights
38
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youtube.com/vividsydney
facebook.com/vividideas
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2 / IT'S ON VISITNSW.COM
Destination NSW acknowledges and appreciates all the images supplied by photographers and event owners for use in this
magazine. Events and other information are subject to change without notice. For full disclaimer, please see back cover.
FLAVOURS OF NSW
EATING OUT IN NSW
HANDS-ON EXPERIENCES
Get some insider tips on the food and
wine that NSW is really famous for, find
out about the best paddock-to-plate
experiences, farmers markets and
much, much more.
Discover where to find the State’s best
craft brews, pubs serving great food,
luxury escapes along the coast, country
dining at its best and cooking schools
for all ages.
Whether you’re keen to know more about
wine varieties, cheese-making, where to
learn about rainforests or marine life,
NSW has the right experience for you.
WHAT’S ON IN NSW
EXPLORE THE REGIONS
WHAT’S ON IN SYDNEY
Travelling film festivals, picnic races,
food and wine events and music
showcases…NSW regions have plenty
of community festivals and seasonal
celebrations coming up in 2014.
The State’s stunning natural environment
provides the right backdrop for any
number of action and adventure activities,
family fun plus food and wine experiences.
Check out what’s coming up in Sydney
during Winter. A highlight is the
ever-popular Vivid Sydney which lights
up the city.
PLAN YOUR REGIONAL NSW SHORT BREAK / 3
REGIONAL NSW
REGIONAL NSW
DID YOU KNOW…?
NEW SOUTH WALES
REGIONS
Tweed Heads
Murwillumbah
visitnsw.com/visitor-information-centres
Lismore
Lightning Ridge
Tenterfield
Moree
Inverell
Bourke
Glen Innes
Grafton
Narrabri
Coffs Harbour
Bellingen
Armidale
White Cliffs
Macksville
Tamworth
Kempsey
Coonabarabran
Port Macquarie
Cobar
Wingham
Gloucester
Muswellbrook
Broken Hill
Dubbo
Mudgee
Wellington
Narromine
Pokolbin
Cessnock
Parkes
Orange
Lithgow Gosford
Bathurst
Blackheath
Katoomba
Grenfell Cowra Oberon
Griffith
Wentworth
Balranald
Young
Temora
Hay
Wagga Wagga
Lord Howe
Island
Great Lakes
THE HEIGHT IN METRES OF
MOUNT KOSCIUSZKO,
AUSTRALIA’S HIGHEST
MOUNTAIN.
OCEAN AND BAY BEACHES
IN NEW SOUTH WALES.
THE NUMBER
OF NATIONAL
PARKS AND
RESERVES
IN NSW
10
HISTORIC LIGHTHOUSES CAN BE FOUND ALONG THE
NSW COASTLINE; MOSTLY BUILT IN THE 19TH CENTURY,
THEY STRETCH FROM CAPE BYRON AT THE STATE’S
NORTHERN TIP, TO GREEN CAPE ON THE SOUTH COAST.
Port Stephens
5
THE HIGHEST WATERFALLS
IN AUSTRALIA ARE THE
WOLLOMOMBI FALLS IN OXLEY
WILD RIVERS NATIONAL PARK
SYDNEY
THE NUMBER OF
UNESCO WORLD
HERITAGE AREAS
IN REGIONAL NSW
Ulladulla
Deniliquin
Mulwala
867
Wollongong
Shellharbour
Kiama
Nowra
Jervis Bay
Bowral
Goulburn
Yass
Gundagai
Taree
THAT’S
KILOMETRES OF BEAUTIFUL
SANDY BEACHES.
Newcastle
Lake Macquarie
The Entrance
Terrigal
Forbes
Mildura
Byron Bay
Ballina
2228
990 877
THE NSW COASTLINE HAS
Albury
Tumut
Tumbarumba
Moama
Cooma
Jindabyne
Thredbo
SURFERS LOVE NSW
Batemans Bay
Moruya
Narooma
NSW IS HOME
TO AUSTRALIA’S OLDEST
CONTINUOUS WINE REGION
(HUNTER VALLEY) AND THE
NEWEST (NEW ENGLAND).
THERE ARE MORE ACCESSIBLE SURF BEACHES
Bega
THAN ANYWHERE ELSE IN AUSTRALIA
Merimbula
Eden
N
BLUE MOUNTAINS
THE MURRAY
CENTRAL NSW
NORTHERN RIVERS
NEW ENGLAND
NORTH WEST
THE RIVERINA
SOUTH COAST
1213-269 Revised May 2013
CENTRAL COAST
OUTBACK NSW
SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS
AND TABLELANDS
THE HUNTER
LORD HOWE ISLAND
MID NORTH COAST
SNOWY MOUNTAINS
SYDNEY
FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY
THE
MU
AUSTRALIA’S L
IVER AT 250 8 K
O N G E ST R
RRAY IS
M
NSW IS HOME TO
BIG BANANA
BIG MERINO
BIG GUITAR
BIG TROUT
THINGS...
Coffs Harbour
Goulburn
Narrandera
Adaminaby
BIG
Destination NSW advises that the map above illustrates the NSW tourism regional boundaries, towns and cities for the purpose of this magazine only
and is not a definitive travel guide of the State’s towns and cities.
REGIONAL NSW
REGIONAL NSW
FROM THE PADDOCK TO THE PLATE
A magnificent rural setting, historic
towns and a buzzing culinary culture
infuses Central NSW, where you’ll
find excellent fine dining options in
many small towns, especially around
Mudgee and Orange.
Quality produce, talented winemakers and some of Australia’s
best restaurants can be found in thriving culinary hotspots across
Regional NSW. Hip little towns, colourful growers markets and
amazing cellar doors now serve up fabulous fare.
Enjoy Racine at la Colline in Orange or
the delicious, hatted Neila in Cowra.
In the heart of the Riverina, a region
known as the ‘food bowl’ of New
South Wales, the city of Griffith hums
with an Italian vibe and many great
restaurants. In the Hunter Valley,
you’ll find cheese factories, smoked
goods and a wide variety of different
places to eat. Venture underground
at Nine, Tower Lodge’s iconic cellar
restaurant; or slow down and savour
the vineyard views over a long lunch
at Margan, where many dishes are
made with produce picked right from
the restaurant’s kitchen garden and
orchard. It doesn’t get any fresher!
GRAPE ESCAPES
So many roads in Regional New South
Wales lead to either a well-established
or emerging wine region.
From the mountains to the country and
along the coast, diverse landscapes
abound, producing drops to appeal to
any palate. And whether you’re sipping
a world-famous Hunter Valley shiraz or
semillon, or a crisp verdelho from the
volcanic soils of NSW’s South Coast, it’s
always easy to find a wine you will love.
Fifty-five percent of the State’s grapes
are grown around the flat plains and
warm climate of the Riverina. Locals
boast that one in four glasses of
Australian wine is made from this
region’s fruit! Griffith and the towns
dotted around the area lure thousands
of visitors each year in search of
specialist dessert wines and unique
food and wine events such as the Taste
Riverina Food Festival.
IT’S A FACT!
}
Gherkin country
How’s this for a claim to fame? The
Riverina’s not just about wine and
gourmet produce; in fact, Big Mac
lovers will be happy to learn that
every gherkin served in a McDonald’s
burger comes from Griffith
}
Beer and bushrangers
If you’re looking for an original pub
with tasty counter lunches and a
cool beer, head to the Royal Hotel in
Canowindra. It’s been famous since
1863 when bushranger, Ben Hall and
his gang, took over the original inn
}
Mudgee was the first...
area in Australia to grow chardonnay
grapes and today it’s still one of the
region’s most popular varieties. It’s
also made its mark with quality reds
and, like Orange, is at the forefront of
the current cool-climate wine trend.
Bimbadgen Estate, Pokolbin, Hunter Valley
COOL-CLIMATE WINES AND MORE
NSW produces some beautiful and
very popular cool-climate wines.
It’s one trend that shows no sign of
abating, especially with the medalwinning wines produced in Orange,
Hilltops and the Tumbarumba regions.
New England North West is also making
a name for itself in cool-climate circles,
with cellar doors around Moree, Narrabri
and Glen Innes pouring promising pinot
gris, pinot noir and chardonnay varieties.
In Young and the Hilltops region, where
grapes were first planted around the
rolling hills in the gold-rush era, it’s all
about shiraz and cabernet sauvignon.
You’ll find lots of tasty cool-climate
wines coming out of the lush Southern
Highlands region, now home to many
well-respected vineyards.
START PLANNING YOUR
OWN FOODIE TRAIL NOW
Graze @ The Factory, Junee, Riverina
visitnsw.com/foodie
TASTES AND TIPPLES
}The Mudgee Brewing Company
Sample specialty brews such
as the local stout, Mudgee Mud,
or enjoy a delicious meal in the
brewery restaurant
}Taste Canowindra
Check out this funky country
restaurant serving 50 wines from
local boutique wineries and enjoy
live music on selected days
}The Hunter Valley
Smelly Cheese Shop
Sample cheese varieties from
Australia, Norway, Denmark,
Cyprus and Spain. Then stock up
on cheese hampers, crackers,
chutneys and oils
}Eastview Estate near Uralla
This New England winery has
already branched out with homebrewed beer; now it’s producing
whisky at the onsite distillery, which
is the first of its kind in the region
}Montrose House and Berry Farm,
Sutton Forest
Pick berries and other fruits in
season at this Southern Highlands
farm, or make a weekend of it,
staying at Montrose Cottage
}Hastings Valley Helicopters
Strap in for a foodie tour with a
difference! This Port Macquarie
company offers a series of twohour tours including scenic flights
and vineyard experiences.
Ballooning above vineyards in the Hunter Valley
FAMILY FUN
NSW food and wine regions have lots to
entertain the kids too.
In the Hunter, you’ll find farm stays at
alpaca farms and cattle properties, and
day trip options such as Tinkler’s Produce
in Pokolbin, where the kids can check out
a working fruit and veggie farm.
Try milking a cow at farm stays in
Wagga Wagga and Bathurst – and, if
you’re in the Southern Highlands or on
the South Coast, seasonal berry picking
is always fun. Up north, Tropical Fruit
World in Duranbah is also a must-see
stopover for the whole family.
Small Cow Farm, Southern Highlands
REGIONAL NSW
REGIONAL NSW
A plump, creamy oyster with a hint of saltiness and a dash
of sweetness is, well, sublime. And now, thanks to a thriving
oyster farm trail winding its way through coastal NSW, it’s
never been so easy to taste these moreish molluscs right
from the seabeds, rivers and lakes they’re raised in.
FRESH FROM THE SOUTH
When it comes to unspoilt destinations,
the NSW South Coast is postcard perfect.
But natural wonders aside, what else
does this stunning region serve up on
a plate? Oysters, of course! In fact, the
vast rivers and lakes found here form a
large chunk of Australia’s 300 km-long
Oyster Coast – with farms sprinkled
across the Shoalhaven and Crookhaven
Rivers, Clyde River, Wagonga Inlet
and the lakes at Tuross, Wapengo,
Merimbula, Pambula and Wonboyn.
Some oyster farms are open to the
public, including Pambula Lake’s
Broadwater Oysters where you can enjoy
Sydney rock oysters straight from the
shell, savouring the distinctively smooth,
subtle flavour.
Why not try a tasting at The Oyster
Pot at Wapengo Lake, where oysters
are shucked daily? Merimbula Lake’s
Wheeler Oysters is great for oyster
tours and its seafood restaurant is a
local favourite.
Whether you’re picnicking in an orchard or on a breezy
hill overlooking the sea, there are many beautiful outdoor
locations to enjoy great food in Regional NSW. You’ll find farm
gates, growers markets, providores and picnic spots galore,
so bring your appetite, family and friends to make a day of it.
Eurobodalla, South Coast
OYSTER FEST!
Brisbane Water Oyster Festival,
Central Coast
How many oysters can you put
away in 30 seconds? The All You
Can Eat oyster challenge is on
again at this annual Ettalong
Beach festival, along with live
music, food and wine stalls, arts
and crafts and even a Kid Zone to
keep the littlies happy.
GO ALFRESCO
Driving down a country road one day,
you could happen upon a farmer selling
punnets of the juiciest berries you’ve
ever tasted.
The next, you may find a high street
providore selling the kinds of
homemade chutneys and jams that
grandma used to make. That’s life and
food in Regional NSW, and it makes
filling a basket all the more memorable.
Don’t forget to ask the locals for good
picnic spots. Often, it may be right near
the monthly market – such as in Bowral,
where the Corbett Gardens lawns are a
beautiful setting for a lunchtime nibble.
In Griffith, after a Sunday market shop,
enjoy a picnic lunch at picturesque
Lake Wyangan just out of town. If you’re
in Mudgee, it’s just a short drive to
Munghorn Gap Nature Reserve; the
grassy, Moolarben picnic area is famous
for birds, wallabies and other wildlife.
}Berries
When the weather warms up, pick
your own at berry farms around
the State, from Montrose Berry
Farm and Moira’s Paradise in the
Southern Highlands to Clyde River
Berry Farm on the South Coast
} Citrus
In Laughtondale near the
Hawkesbury River, you can pick
cumquats in July at Watkins Family
Farm, or mandarins on Ford’s Farm
from May. In Bilpin, pick limes from
June to September
}Olives
Pick olives in season – late
April and May – from one of the
three thousand olive trees at
Guneemooroo Olive Grove just out
of Mudgee
}Fruit salad
Pick your own apples, peaches and
plums at Pine Crest Orchard in
Bilpin; at Catania Fruit Salad Farm
near Griffith the picking’s good
throughout the year
Sunday 9 November
TASTING THE NORTH
}Mushrooms
In the Southern Highlands, take
a tour through Li-Sun Exotic
Mushrooms’ old Mittagong
railway tunnel now used to grow
mushrooms – and take home your
own mouth-watering punnet
Do you like your oysters presented to
you while you kick back with a glass of
wine and a water view?
On NSW’s North Coast, you’ll find new
oyster experiences wherever you go –
from the Hawkesbury River to Nambucca.
On the Hawkesbury River the oyster
industry dates back to the 1870s; you can
enjoy tastings on weekends at Broken Bay
Oysters at Mooney Mooney.
HUNTING & GATHERING
The clear waters of the NSW Great Lakes
area promises perfect conditions for
oyster growing – one of the best spots to
taste the produce is at Barclays Oyster
Farm in Forster, the State’s largest
supplier of Sydney rock oysters.
Tasting fresh regional produce direct
from a country farm is a real novelty
for most city slickers.
Or, head to Port Macquarie’s Big Oyster
and perch yourself on the floating pontoon
– where juicy Hastings River oysters,
prawns and more are on the menu.
But it’s an experience anyone can have at
farmers markets around Regional NSW.
Stock up on seasonal veggies, gourmet
preserves, oils and more at monthly
}Trout
The Snowy Mountains town of
Oberon is awash with keen anglers
from October to June, with great
fishing spots at Kelly’s Bay and the
Oberon Dam Picnic Area
TO MARKET, TO MARKET
markets in Mudgee and Orange. Griffith’s
Sunday markets are full of citrus fruits
and pasta sauces – and you’ll find coffee
beans, macadamias and exotic fruits
at markets all over the North Coast.
Heading south? Don’t miss Bega and
Tilba Tilba for seafood and cheeses.
}Truffles
Follow your nose to these
delectable morsels on a truffle
hunt from June through to August
in Robertson and Braidwood in the
Southern Highlands.
REGIONAL NSW
REGIONAL NSW
Hearty fare, colourful locals and a dash of history are the
ingredients every good country pub requires – because after
all, it’s where everyone congregates! And whether you’re in
town for a while or just passing through, these Regional NSW
pubs are just right for a craft beer or delicious meal.
If your idea of a heavenly weekend is luxury accommodation
and dinner in a restaurant that everyone’s talking about,
you’ll be spoilt for choice with Regional NSW’s selection of
quality places to stay and eat.
LUXURY SEASIDE ESCAPES
PUB DINING HIGHLIGHTS
Gone are the days when the specials
board lacked pizzazz and pub grub
was just average fare.
These days, many pub menus wouldn’t
be out of place in a fine dining
restaurant, and in Regional NSW,
they’re often found in surprisingly
out-of-the-way places.
Graze at Willow Tree Inn in Quirindi
near Tamworth is a case in point;
the restaurant’s steaks, sourced
from nearby Colly Creek Station, are
legendary, the bread is homemade and
the desserts are divine. In Central NSW,
Millthorpe’s Commercial Hotel is all
about open fires and spectacular food
(punters particularly love the saltbush
lamb burger).
The Patonga Beach Hotel on the
Central Coast is famous for seafood
and water views; and award-winning
Eltham Hotel, between Nimbin and
Byron Bay, uses the best of local
produce on the menu.
CRAFTY BREWS
Did you know that craft beer represents
about 10 percent of Australia’s premium
beer market?
It’s a growing trend, as craft beer makers
experiment with a variety of flavours.
Many breweries offer tours and tastings
on request – like HopDog BeerWorks
in Nowra on the South Coast – while
others, like the Central Coast’s Six String
Brewing Co, serve up gourmet tasting
plates alongside the ale. Seeking a
decent feed? You’ll find signature brews,
bar snacks and an à la carte restaurant
at Mudgee Brewing Company in Central
NSW. Dalgety Brewery Co in the Snowy
Mountains has a popular restaurant too.
Mudgee Brewing Company, Mudgee
It’s worth making the journey to
experience these regional treasures.
On the North Coast, a few breweries
are not to be missed. Murray’s Craft
Brewing Co near Nelson Bay has more
than ten beers on tap and a menu of
pizzas, burgers and more. Further
north, the Byron Bay Brewing Co
offers punters the chance to sip a beer
and enjoy a meal sitting amongst the
brewery’s copper vats!
In Mollymook on the South Coast, Rick
Stein’s beautiful Bannisters retreat
features fine dining that’s all about local
seafood. Or embrace the beach house
vibe at Bells at Killcare, a chic Central
Coast getaway famous for its restaurant,
Manfredi at Bells. Many of the vegetables
and herbs found in the flourishing
kitchen garden feature on Stefano
Manfredi’s Italian menu.
View of Patonga
AWARD WINNING
PUBS IN NSW
These award winners in the NSW
Good Pub 2014 Guide serve great
pub food and craft beers.
}
Burwood Inn, Newcastle
Balmain Brewing Company and
the 4 Pines Brewing Company both
supply craft beers to this beachside
corner pub, which offers traditional
comfort food favourites
}
The Town Green Inn, Port Macquarie
Known as ‘TG’ to the locals, this
friendly pub has views, great food
and craft beers from the Black
Duck Brewery and The Little
Brewing Company
Lodge Restaurant at luxury Capella
Lodge is a must for its views and
executive chef Peter Smit’s seasonal
gourmet menu. The family run Pinetrees
Lodge, headed up by executive chef Paul
Brown, also serves delicious, casual fare.
Lush décor and a rainforest backdrop
give wow factor to The Restaurant at The
Byron at Byron, but it’s also on NSW’s
culinary map thanks to head chef Gavin
Hughes’ stylish spin on local produce.
You’ll find sublime food experiences on
beautiful Lord Howe Island, too.
TREE CHANGE
}Sean Moran
It’s hard to grow lots of produce
in the city, so swapping Bondi
Beach for the Blue Mountains
has enabled the former Sean’s
Panaroma chef to do just that.
There is a kitchen garden at
his new Mount Tomah eatery,
Restaurant Tomah, plus a menu
featuring produce such as rabbit,
yabbies and Murray cod
}Martin Boetz
The ex-Longrain chef’s latest
passion is the Cook’s Co-Op,
located in the Hawkesbury region.
Here, Boetz has created The
Farm, a fruit and market garden.
His goal? To grow sustainable
produce based on the needs
of city chefs, and in time, offer
courses and workshops
Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island
GOURMET GRAZING
Fine dining options await you in the
country regions close to Sydney.
Room, a stunning space with open fires
and walk-in wine cellar.
Emirates Wolgan Valley Resort and Spa
offers a memorable getaway. Head chef
Damien Brabender’s contemporary
Australian menu is served in The
Homestead’s huge Wolgan Dining
In the Southern Highlands, try
Bowral’s Biota Dining and Rooms for
a true gastronomic journey; head chef
James Viles is big on supporting local
farmers and growers.
}Clayton Donovan
After honing his skills at The
Watermark at Balmoral Beach,
Donovan decamped to Nambucca
on NSW’s North Coast to open
contemporary indigenous
restaurant Jaaning Tree, where he
can forage for bush ingredients
}Andy Crestani
Formerly of Nove Cucina and Otto
Ristorante on Woolloomooloo’s
Finger Wharf, Crestani now
heads up the popular Pipeclay
Pumphouse in Mudgee, where most
of the seasonal menus are created
from the restaurant’s veggie patch
or locally sourced produce.
}
Bangalow Hotel, Bangalow
Enjoy craft beers from the Stone
& Wood Brewery and choose
from a gourmet menu at this
stylish old watering hole that’s
inland from Byron Bay.
The Dining Room at Wolgan Valley Resort and Spa
REGIONAL NSW
REGIONAL NSW
TEN NSW NATIONAL
PARKS NOT TO MISS
With more of us interested in finding out about where our
food comes from and producers keen to show us, culinary
adventures are never far away in Regional NSW.
WINE-TOURING TRENDS
While there are plenty of wine-tasting
tours in the NSW wine regions, the
trend is towards more in-depth
experiences at the cellar door.
Tallavera Grove in the Hunter Valley
offers one-hour vineyard tours on
both Saturdays and Sundays. Or,
try Hungerford Hill’s Epic Tasting
Experience, a mini degustation of wines
matched to bite-sized dishes by Muse
Restaurant. In Pokolbin, Keith Tulloch
Wines also offers a range of tasting
experiences and bespoke winery tours.
On the Mid North Coast, you can learn
all about the wine-making process and
see the inner-workings of a winery at
Cassegrain Wines, where free tours
are held at 11am every weekday. And
if you’re keen to zoom around on a
segway, there are fun South Coast tours
that include a visit to Silos Winery while
enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Hungerford Hill Winery, Hunter Valley
MORE FOODIE FUN
}
Krinklewood Workshop, 24 May
This Hunter Valley winery runs
an annual, hands-on biodynamic
workshop about growing
healthier plants and produce
}
Pig in a Pickle Workshop,
22 June and 20 July
Fancy making your own pancetta,
bacon, salami or sausages? Pig
in a Pickle offers small goods and
preserving workshops at Nana
Glen, near Coffs Harbour
}
Kids’ Cooking Classes
Young Masterchefs will love these
monthly classes, held at the
Mudgee Farmers Market and led
by local chefs.
There are lots of opportunities to enjoy nature with the family
around Regional NSW – whether you head to one of the State’s
national parks, find a good whale-watching vantage point or
organise a farm-stay holiday that the family will love.
FUN FOR THE TRIBE
NSW regions are packed with a variety
of fun options for the whole family.
If you’re heading south, that means
Kiama’s Blowhole, quirky Mogo Zoo and
a string of old-school seaside towns.
Head north and give the kids a thrill at
the Central Coast’s Australian Reptile
Park, the daily pelican feeding sessions
at The Entrance and fun attractions such
as The Big Banana in Coffs Harbour.
Gerringong and Kangaroo Valley on the
South Coast, Megalong Valley in the Blue
Mountains and Jindabyne in the Snowy
Mountains. Mudgee, Orange, Bathurst
and Griffith are also home to working
sheep and cattle stations.
If the country beckons, Dubbo’s Taronga
Western Plains Zoo is a must, as is the
Murray region. Chug along the river on
a paddle steamer, hire a houseboat or
visit Corowa’s Murray Bank Yabby Farm
to catch and cook your own.
For a truly memorable holiday, book a
farm stay. You’ll find great options in
WILD ABOUT WHALES
Find out everything you’ve ever wanted
to know about cheese, including how to
make it, from dedicated cheese-makers.
From April to November, pods of whales
travel along the NSW coast – and there
are many vantage points from which to
spot these gentle giants.
In Coffs Harbour, Armidale and Wagga
Wagga, teachers from The Cheese Making
Workshop run one-day, soft cheesemaking classes; the next ones are held
in June. Advanced workshops are also on
offer if you’d like to discover the secrets
behind making trickier cheeses such as
blue vein, haloumi or mozzarella.
Smokey Cape Lighthouse, Hat Head
Photo: wildaboutwhales.com.au
Start with a tasting tour through the
factory at the High Valley Wine and
Cheese Co in Mudgee. Or, get hands-on
at Mudgee’s Leaning Oak by booking a
one-day goat’s cheese-making workshop,
where milking the goat beforehand is
all part of the fun. In the Hunter Valley,
Australia Home Cheese Making offers
two-day workshops teaching hard and soft
cheese technique, and on the South Coast
in Central Tilba, the ABC Cheese Factory
offers cheese-making courses on the third
weekend of every month.
}Wollumbin Mt Warning
National Park
This remnant of an ancient volcano
is the first place on Australia’s
mainland to see the morning sun
}Blue Mountains National Park
Most famous for the Three Sisters
rock formations, spectacular
clifftop trails and bushwalks
}Capertee National Park
About 50 km from Lithgow, this park
is a breeding and feeding ground for
the endangered honeyeater
}Mutawintji National Park
A unique Outback NSW destination
that’s most famous for its
Aboriginal rock engravings and
ochre stencils
}Mungo National Park
Also in Outback NSW, this World
Heritage park is worth visiting for
its lunar-like landscape – and the
stunning Walls of China formation
Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo
THE SECRET OF GREAT CHEESE-MAKING
}Booderee National Park
It’s all about the pristine beaches,
coastal views and bushland walks
at this South Coast national park
On the South Coast, try Gerroa near Seven
Mile Beach National Park, or the Beecroft
Peninsula in Jervis Bay. Or head north to
the Central Coast, where some of the best
spots to be during whale-watching season
are at Norah Head Lighthouse, Crackneck
Lookout and Redhead Bluff. Port
Stephens’ Tomaree National Park, Hat
Head, Crowdy Head and Cape Byron in
Byron Bay are also great vantage points.
Remember to bring your binoculars!
}Lord Howe Island National Park
The island is World Heritagelisted and heaven for waterbabies.
Snorkel, dive, bird-watch or even
climb to the summit of Mt Gower
}Kosciuszko National Park
From skiing in Winter to bushwalking
in Summer, the Snowy Mountains’
rugged alpine park is an adventure
destination any time of year
}Dorrigo National Park
Lush waterfalls and sub-tropical
rainforest walks are the drawcards
of this stunning Mid North Coast
national park
}Oxley Wild Rivers National Park
Near Armidale, this park is home
to dry rainforests, dramatic
gorges and Wollomombi Falls,
NSW’s highest waterfall. Don’t
forget your camera!
REGIONAL NSW
For some, holidays are all about getting the heart pumping in
the great outdoors. From whizzing down a snow-capped peak
to hiking up a mountain, or even hang-gliding off a clifftop,
there’s plenty to choose from in Regional NSW.
FEEL THE RUSH
If Winter awakens your inner thrillseeker, prepare to hit the slopes from
the June long weekend, which heralds
the start of the snow season in NSW.
Alpine resorts in the NSW Snowy
Mountains cater to all skiers and
snowboarders, whether you’re a wobbly
beginner or a mogul-defying veteran.
Perisher and Thredbo offer a wide
choice of trails for all levels and ages, or
try Charlotte Pass, Australia’s highest
resort. Mt Selwyn and Blue Cow are also
great family-friendly options.
Seeking fun on two wheels? Go mountainbiking on some exhilarating downhill
routes, log jumps and fire trails, found in
the Snowy Mountains, the Blue Mountains
and around Coffs Harbour.
On the South Coast, Stanwell Tops
offers terrific hang-gliding over the
beautiful coastline – or book a skydive
in nearby Wollongong and land your
parachute right on the beach! Keen
anglers will also love the Shoalhaven,
with its game fishing tours, quiet lakes
and freshwater streams.
Nymboida River rapids
FEELING BRAVE?
HEAD TO...
}
Lord Howe Island for hiking.
Climbing Mt Gower is intense, but
the views are worth it
Perisher Valley, Snowy Mountains
HAPPY CAMPERS
Camping is the quintessential Aussie
experience – and NSW’s holiday parks
promise an easy, affordable holiday that
the whole family will love.
With more than 30 hotels to choose from across NSW, Accor has
the perfect escape for any taste and budget. From vineyards to the
mountains, the beaches to golf courses, there has never been a
better time to book your NSW Getaway. Book now and save with
Accor Hotels in NSW.
}
Coffs Harbour for rafting.
Get your kicks on a tour of the
Nymboida River rapids
}
New England North West for
horse action.
Jackaroo/Jillaroo schools serve
up fun, cowboy-style
}
Port Stephens for diving.
Suit up and explore the reefs, deep
drop-offs and abundant marine life.
Kendalls Beach, Kiama
Photo: Anson Smart
You can choose a site along the South
Coast, for example, and you’ll enjoy pretty
beaches, bushwalks and perhaps a visit
from a kangaroo! Or, pitch a tent at Seal
Rocks on the North Coast, a sleepy beach
community famous for its surf breaks and
natural beauty. Some of the State’s most
iconic coastal regions and inland caravan
parks and reserves are also managed by
the NSW Crown Holiday Parks Trust.
Book early and enjoy a NSW
Getaway with Accor Hotels
}
The Blue Mountains for abseiling
and canyoning.
Test your limits and get a rush
while enjoying the scenery
From
113
$
*
per night
Book now at
accorhotels.com/NSW
*Bookings are payable at time of reservation and are non-exchangeable, non-refundable and non-transferable. Prices are per room per night. Rates are subject to change, based on a limited allocation of rooms and subject to availability
at time of booking. All rates are per night for single, twin or double occupancy. Bookings must be made at participating hotels and resorts in NSW, Australia. Offer must be booked a minimum of 21 days* prior to travel (*minimum 30 days
prior to travel for Novotel brand). Accor Advantage Plus members receive a further 10% discount on this rate.
DNS0105/R/A
REGIONAL NSW EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
EMIRATES PARK SCONE
CUP CARNIVAL
16 – 17 May
Scone
2014 NCHA FUTURITY
28 May – 8 June
Tamworth
HUNTER VALLEY WINE
AND FOOD MONTH
1 – 30 June
Hunter Valley
THE PEAK FESTIVAL
6 – 9 June
Perisher Valley
COATES HIRE
RALLY AUSTRALIA
11 – 14 September
Coffs Harbour
TULIP TIME FESTIVAL
16 September – 6 October
Bowral
V8 SUPERCARS SUPERCHEAP
AUTO BATHURST 1000
9 – 12 October
Bathurst
EDEN WHALE FESTIVAL
1 – 2 November
Eden
MAY 2014
Slice of Haven Food and
Wine Festival
25 May
Laurieton
Coonamble Rodeo and Campdraft
7 – 9 June
Coonamble
Winter Blues and Jazz Festival
6 July
The Entrance
AUGUST 2014
Toast Urunga
7 September
Urunga
Flavours of Mudgee
27 September
Mudgee
Country Music Round Up Corowa
12 – 15 June
Corowa
Eastern University Games
6 – 10 July
Newcastle
Byron Bay Writers’ Festival
1 – 3 August
Byron Bay
Maitland Aroma: Coffee,
Chocolate and Fine Food Festival
16 – 17 August
Maitland
Berry Gardens Festival
11 – 14 September
Berry
Winter Winery Wander
15 June
Bathurst
Southern Highlands Writers’
Festival
11 – 13 July
Bowral
Fireside Festival;
The Poachers Way
1 – 31 August
Hall, Murrumbateman,
Bungendore
Sakura Matsuri Cherry
Blossom Festival
27 September
Cowra
Sculpture at Scenic World
Until 18 May
Katoomba
Scone and Upper Hunter
Horse Festival
Until 18 May
Murrurundi & Scone
Battle on the Border
15 – 18 May
Kingscliff
White Cliffs Music Festival
16 – 18 May
White Cliffs
Sydney Travelling Film Festival
16 – 18 May
Wagga Wagga
Eurobodalla River of Art
16 – 25 May
Durras Lake and Wallaga Lake
Batlow CiderFest
17 May
Batlow
Lovedale Long Lunch
17 – 18 May
Hunter Valley
The North Face 100
17 – 18 May
Blue Mountains
Century Challenge Cycle Ride
18 May
Kariong
141st Dubbo Annual Show
23 – 25 May
Dubbo
23 – 25 May
Tamworth
Casino Beef Week
24 May – 3 June
Casino
Port to Port MTB
29 May – 1 June
Port Stephens, Hunter Valley &
Newcastle
Big Band Blast
30 May – 1 June
Port Macquarie
JUNE 2014
Celtic Thunder
1 June
Albury
Yulefest in the Blue Mountains
1 June – 31 August
Blue Mountains
Henry Lawson Festival
5 – 9 June
Grenfell
Merimbula Jazz Festival
6 – 9 June
Merimbula
Parkes Picnic Races
7 June
Parkes
Whispering Brook Olive Long
Table Luncheon
7 June
Broke
unWined
7 – 8 June
Riverina
Shoalhaven Coast Winter
Wine Festival
7 – 9 June
Kiama and Shoalhaven
Bellingen Readers and Writers
Festival
7 – 9 June
Bellingen
20 – 22 June
Newcastle
5 Lands Walk
21 June
MacMasters Beach to Terrigal
Winter Magic Festival
21 June
Katoomba
Lismore Lantern Parade
21 June
Lismore
Capital Region Truffle Festival
21 June – mid August
Yass Valley Region
JULY 2014
Mildura Writers’ Festival
17 – 20 July
Wentworth
Coffs Coast Festival of Cycling
18 July – 3 August
Coffs Harbour
Ballina Fine Wine and
Food Festival
20 July
Ballina
Cowra Wine Show Weekend
25 – 27 July
Cowra
Echuca Moama Winter
Blues Festival
25 – 27 July
Echuca
Australian Formula Powerboat
Grand Prix Port Macquarie
2 – 3 August
Port Macquarie
Cross Country Ski Week
2 – 10 August
Perisher Valley
Australian Surf Festival
2 – 19 August
Coffs Harbour
NAB Coffs Coast Cycle
Challenge
3 August
Coffs Harbour
Annual Dubbo Jazz Festival
8 – 10 August
Dubbo
Head to Head Walk Run Event
17 August
Crescent Head
Condobolin Show
22 – 23 August
Condobolin
Taste New England
28 September
Glen Innes
Festa delle Salsicce
(Festival of the Sausage)
24 August
Griffith
Wagga Wagga Jazz and Blues
Festival
12 – 14 September
Wagga Wagga
OCTOBER 2014
Dungog Festival
28 – 31 August
Dungog
Mudgee Wine and Food Festival
Mudgee
Taste Riverina Food Festival
1 – 31 October
Wagga Wagga
29 – 31 August
Wollongong
Sample Food Festival
13 September
Bangalow
ARTtober Lightning Ridge Festival
1 – 31 October
Lightning Ridge
Newcastle Jazz Festival
29 – 31 August
Newcastle
Southern Highlands Food and
Wine Festival
13 – 14 September
Bowral
Deniliquin Ute Muster
3 – 4 October
Deniliquin
Newcastle Permanent: Lake
Macquarie Running Festival
31 August
Warners Bay
Daffodils at Rydal 2014
13 – 14 and 20 – 21 September
Rydal
Great Southern Blues Festival
3 – 5 October
Narooma
Warrumbungle Festival of the Stars
3 – 27 October
Coonabarabran
SEPTEMBER 2014
Broken Hill Silver City Show
18 – 20 September
Broken Hill
Gundagai Riverfest
5 – 7 September
Gundagai
Annual Porchetta Day
20 September
Gunnedah
Murrumbateman Moving Feast
4 – 6 October
Murrumbateman
Lanterns on the Lagoon
20 September
Tumut
Leura Gardens Festival
4 – 12 October
Leura
Wild About Waratahs Festival
20 – 28 September
Mount Tomah
Hunter Valley Wine Festival
11 October
Hunter Valley
Australian Cool Climate
Wine Show
22 – 27 September
Murrumbateman
Spirit of the Land Lockhart
Festival
11 – 12 October
Lockhart
Toyota Hats Off To Country
3 – 6 July
Tamworth
Splendour in the Grass
25 – 27 July
North Byron Parklands
Riverina Vintage Machinery Rally
9 – 10 August
Leeton
Grafton July Racing Carnival
3 – 13 July
Grafton
Chill Out
26 July
Gloucester
Mudgee Readers’ Festival
9 – 10 August
Mudgee
Timbertown Steam Festival
4 – 6 July
Wauchope
Opera at the Channon
27 July
Lismore
Australian Four Day Enduro
11 – 16 August
Dungog
Sawtell Chilli Festival
5 July
Sawtell
Grafton Country Music Roundup
Grafton
Cirque Mother Africa
14 August
Nowra
Coffs Harbour Running Festival
7 September
Coffs Harbour
Lightning Ridge Opal Festival
Lightning Ridge
Bangalow Music Festival
15 – 17 August
Bangalow
Dubbo Stampede
7 September
Dubbo
Hunter Valley Gardens
Chocolate Festival
5 – 6 July
Pokolbin
Efterski Festival
12 – 14 September
Thredbo
WUPA@Wanaruah
Hunter Valley
For more event information go to visitnsw.com/events
Please note that events are subject to change or cancellation. Check relevant website for further details prior to event. For full disclaimer please see back cover.
SPORTS
IN 2015
2014 ORANGE WINE
FESTIVAL
17 October – 2 November
Orange
IRONMAN 70.3
PORT MACQUARIE
19 October
Port Macquarie
THE MULLUM MUSIC
FESTIVAL
20 – 23 November
Mullumbimby
INTERNATIONAL
CHILDREN’S GAMES
6 – 11 December
Lake Macquarie
Balranald 5 Rivers Outback
Festival
11 – 12 October
Balranald
Mildura Jazz Food and Wine
Festival
Mildura
Batemans Bay Seaside Carnivale
2 November
Batehaven
Murrumbidgee Dragon Boat
Challenge
30 November
Wagga Wagga
Griffith Festival of Gardens
17 – 20 October
Griffith
NOVEMBER 2014
Telstra Inverell Sapphire City
Festival
Inverell
Batlow Apple Blossom
Festival
18 – 19 October
Batlow
80th Jacaranda Festival
Grafton
Brangayne Wines and A Slice of
Orange Antipasto Hampers
Orange
Byron Bay Surf Festival
24 – 26 October
Byron Bay
CoastOut Festival
24 – 26 October
Coffs Harbour
Chromefest
24 – 26 October
The Entrance
Sculpture in the Vineyards
Hunter Valley
SBS Feast
Tastings on Hastings 2014
26 October
Port Macquarie
Tastes at the Bay
Port Stephens
Classic Yass
1 November
Yass
Snowy Ride
1 November
Snowy Mountains
Carcoar Cup Running Festival
1 – 2 November
Carcoar
Bitter and Twisted International
Boutique Beer Festival
1 – 2 November
Maitland
Wollombi Small Farms Fair
1 – 2 November
Wollombi
Leeton Country Music
Round-up
1 – 3 November
Leeton
Snowy Mountains Trout
Festival
1 – 7 November
Jindabyne
Lord Howe Island Bird Week
1 – 8 November
Lord Howe Island
Southern Highlands
Art Festival
1 – 30 November
Southern Highlands
Blackheath Rhododendron
Festival
1 – 30 November
Blackheath
Twilight by the Lagoon
Concert Series
7 November
Wagga Wagga
Southeast HARVEST Regional
Food Festival
8 November
Moruya
DECEMBER 2014
Lord Howe Island Art Trail
1 – 6 December
Lord Howe Island
Lord Howe Island Golf Open
8 – 14 November
Lord Howe Island
National Cherry Festival
5 – 7 December
Young
Global Village Motorfest & Fair
9 November
Muswellbrook
Great Inland Fishing Festival
5 – 7 December
Inverell
Brisbane Water Oyster Festival
9 November
Ettalong Beach
Tuggerah Lakes Mardi Gras
Summerfest
6 December
The Entrance
Yamba Rod Run
14 – 16 November
Yamba
Ballina Prawn Festival
15 November
Ballina
Tweed Foodie Fest
19 – 23 November
Murwillumbah
Robertson Antiques and
Collectables Fair
22 – 23 November
Young
Murray Marathon
24 – 28 November
Yarrawonga
Huntington Estate Music Festival
26 – 30 November
Mudgee
Annual Merimbula Classic
27 – 30 November
Merimbula
Grafton City Head of the River
Rowing Regatta
6 – 7 December
Grafton
LithGLO
11 – 13 December
Lithow
Festival of the Sun
12 – 13 December
Port Macquarie
Australian Beach Soccer Cup
13 – 14 December
Wollongong
Annual Gerringong Street
Parade and Party
20 December
Gerringong
Jindabyne’s Man From Snowy
River Rodeo
28 December
Jindabyne
AFC ASIAN CUP 2015
The 16 best teams in Asia will meet in
Sydney and Newcastle in January 2015 to
compete for the AFC Asian Cup, the most
sought-after trophy in Asian football. Be
part of the biggest football tournament
ever to take place in Australia as the
region’s dynamos battle it out.
Newcastle will play host to four games,
including Japan’s opening match of the
tournament and a semi-final.
Sydney is host to seven games including
the Socceroos all-important clash with
Oman. Stadium Australia will also host a
quarter final, the semi-final on Australia
Day and the final on 31 January.
This is your chance to see world-class
football right here in Australia. With
ticket prices from $5* for kids and $40*
for families, it’s an affordable option for
all football fans and a real highlight of
the school holidays over summer.
NEWCASTLE
WHEN: 10, 13, 15, 19, 23, 26, 31 January 2015
WHERE: Stadium Australia
WHEN: 12, 17, 27, 30 January 2015
WHERE: Newcastle Stadium
For tickets and information go to:
afcasiancup.com
ICC CRICKET
WORLD CUP 2015
The ICC Cricket World Cup is a oncein-a-generation event and it’s coming
to the Sydney Cricket Ground in 2015!
Secure your seats today to see the
superstars of cricket battle it out for
international cricket’s greatest prize.
The Sydney Cricket Ground will host
five matches including South Africa v
West Indies on 27 February, Australia v
Sri Lanka on 8 March, and England v
Afghanistan on 13 March.
The quarterfinal is on 18 March and the
semi-final on 26 March, both in Sydney.
For more event information go to visitnsw.com/events
With tickets for children just $5* for all
pool matches and for adults from $20*,
everyone can experience this exciting
sporting event.
Please note that events are subject to change or cancellation. Check relevant website for further details prior to event. For full disclaimer please see back cover.
*Booking fee may apply.
SYDNEY
SYDNEY
WHEN: 27 February and 8, 13, 18, 26 March 2015
WHERE: Sydney Cricket Ground, Moore Park
For tickets and information go to:
cricketworldcup.com
REGIONAL NSW
PLAN. BOOK. SHARE!
DESTINATION NSW HAS THE DIGITAL TOOLS TO HELP YOU CONNECT WITH YOUR
FRIENDS, FELLOW TRAVELLERS AND US!
See the sydney.com and visitnsw.com
websites for all your event and holiday
planning needs.
Find out about where to stay in Sydney
and Regional NSW, view special offers
and then book your accommodation.
Download your free travel and event
apps as well as inspiring holiday
brochures about the regions of NSW.
You’ll also find plenty of tips on things
to do, the best attractions and tours,
listings for restaurants and cafes, and
fun family ideas.
EVERYONE LOVES TO SHARE THE EXCITEMENT OF THEIR OWN TRAVEL EXPERIENCES.
TELL US ABOUT YOUR BEST SYDNEY AND NSW MOMENTS.
With so much happening you’ll want to
stay connected with Destination NSW
to find out what’s on.
Tag us in your photos, as we’re always
keen to share! Use #NewSouthWales
to tell us all about the events you’re
heading to, the food you have enjoyed
and the restaurants that you discovered
with your friends and family.
CONNECT WITH NSW
CONNECT WITH SYDNEY
twitter.com/nswtips
@visitnsw
@sydney
#NewSouthWales
#ilovesydney
visitnsw.com
sydney.com
CHECK OUT THE SYDNEY MAGAZINE APP
Plan your own exciting short break in NSW with our new Sydney Magazine app. Watch
stunning videos, bookmark your favourite holiday tips and
see beautiful images from Sydney and NSW. Head to
Newsstand to download the Sydney Magazine app for iPad.
Apple, the Apple logo, MacBook, and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc.
NSW REGIONS
NSW REGIONS
SYDNEY
BLUE MOUNTAINS
NORTHERN
RIVERS
SYDNEY
LOCAL LEGENDS
Uncovering local secretsCaption
is parttoofgo here.
the fun of touring this eclectic region.
Scenic Skyway over Jamison Valley
UNLOCKING THE SECRETS
The Blue Mountains National Park
is at the centre of a World Heritage
landscape of sandstone cliffs, deep
valleys and thick eucalypt forests.
Luckily, there are plenty of ways to unlock
the secrets of this blue-hazed wonderland.
A great place to start is at Scenic World,
where you’ll glide across the Jamison
Valley in the Scenic Skyway or descend
to the valley floor in the world’s steepest
passenger railway.
Another stunning natural attraction –
the Jenolan Caves – features pristine
underground rivers and amazing
limestone formations that are best
experienced on a guided tour. The caves
are amongst the oldest and finest in the
world, with eleven open for exploring.
The Blue Mountains Botanic Garden at
Mt Tomah is Australia’s highest botanic
garden, home to more than 40,000
native, exotic and rare plants from
around the world. It’s a fantastic place to
learn about the region’s unique animals
and plants, including the famous
‘dinosaur tree’, the Wollemi pine, one of
the oldest species of tree in the world.
Delve even deeper into nature on a
hiking tour with experienced guides
from Life’s An Adventure or with
National Park Discovery Rangers;
you’ll immerse yourself in amazing
wilderness areas where many tourists
never tread.
GETTING AROUND
Explore the Blue Mountains at your
own pace using the convenient
option of hop-on hop-off touring.
The Blue Mountains Explorer Bus
and Blue Mountains Trolley Tours
both offer regular services seven
days a week to the key attractions
around Katoomba and Leura.
Silk’s Brasserie
The Blue Mountains is also home to
many Aboriginal sacred sites; for an
authentic Aboriginal cultural experience,
join Blue Mountains Walkabout, or head
to Waradah Aboriginal Centre and The
Gully Aboriginal Interpretive Walk.
FROM THE MOUNTAINS TO THE SEA
Deep rivers, dramatic mountain peaks,
rocky escarpments, sub-tropical valleys
and dense forests together shape
the stunning World Heritage-listed
Gondwana Rainforests of Australia; and
the Northern Rivers is lucky to be home
to some of the most accessible.
Wollumbin Mt Warning looms majestically
above the surrounding countryside which
is dotted with small villages, meandering
drives, art galleries and great cafés. Enjoy
a stroll along the Lyrebird Track or relax
at pretty Korrumbyn Creek picnic area. In
Border Ranges National Park, soak up the
ambience created by the tall rainforests,
ancient beech trees and crystal clear
creeks; from Pinnacle Lookout you’ll see
FABULOUS FOOD
MOUNTAIN FARE
Jenolan Caves
Murwillumbah featuring Wollumbin Mt Warning
Lovers of handcrafted chocolates
should head to Josophan’s Fine
Chocolates in Leura and The Paragon
in Katoomba. Devonshire Tea and High
Tea are served at Bygone Beautys,
The Carrington Hotel, Lilianfels
Resort & Spa and the Fairmont
Resort. Fine dining options include
Darley’s Restaurant, Echo Point;
Restaurant1923, Wentworth Falls;
Silk’s Brasserie, Leura; Ashcrofts,
Blackhealth; and The Rooster, Katoomba.
Wollumbin Mt Warning in the distance.
Yuraygir National Park is one of the
State’s most striking coastal national
parks. Plan ahead for the four-day
Yuraygir Coastal Walk or enjoy shorter
walks, picnics and camping.
Discover the easternmost point of
Australia at Cape Byron Lighthouse which
has breathtaking views in all directions.
It’s an unforgettable experience. Further
south, Angourie Beach is a National
Surfing Reserve, attracting surfers
from around the world. Learn to surf
with experienced locals, see the vivid
freshwater Blue and Green Pools or
follow the Angourie Walk to Lake Arragan.
}
A short drive through the lush
Byron hinterland leads to Nimbin,
Australia’s alternative lifestyle
capital from the 1960s. It won’t take
long to immerse yourself in the local
culture at the pub, the markets,
cafés and galleries
}
An ex-RAAF F-111 fighter jet,
a tiger moth and a MIG15 are just a
few of the exhibits at Evans Head’s
Aviation Heritage Museum. Housed
in a restored Bellman Hanger, the
museum showcases the role that
the town played as a training base in
World War II
}
Italian settlers to the North Coast
are honoured at ‘New Italy’,
a museum that tells the story of
the original migrants who travelled
here in 1881 to establish a thriving
village in what was once a remote
location, just south of Ballina.
Nimbin
Fragrant tropical fruit, sweet
seafood and creative menus sum
up the dining experience in this
warm, lush region.
At Tropical Fruit World, sample the
wide range of exotic fruits from
miracle fruit and the ice-cream
bean to champagne fruit and red
dragon fruit. On the coast, Ballina
is famous for fresh, local seafood.
Don’t miss one of the region’s best
cafés, tiny Eltham Valley Pantry,
located on a pecan nut farm. Book a
guided farm tour or shop for locally
produced gourmet food
NSW REGIONS
NSW REGIONS
SYDNEY
SOUTH COAST
SOUTHERN
HIGHLANDS AND
TABLELANDS
SYDNEY
Hyams Beach
SIMPLY DELICIOUS
ADVENTURE TIME
The South Coast has all the essential
ingredients for a great adventure
holiday: crystal-clear bays and lakes,
spectacular surfing beaches and
beautiful rivers, national parks and
lush countryside.
It’s no surprise then that some of the
best experiences are also in the best
locations. At Killalea State Park, a
National Surfing Reserve with 250
hectares of pristine coastal reserve
and beaches, learn to surf at the
beach known as ‘The Farm’ with an
accredited surf school.
Along the Light to Light Walking Track
in Ben Boyd National Park, admire the
rugged coastline, vivid rock formations
and pristine beaches between Boyd’s
Tower and Green Cape Light Station.
The White Sands Walk in Jervis Bay
is in another stunning location where
you’ll walk across some of the whitest
sands in the world, past unspoilt bays
and beaches. On the Kiama Coast
Walk, see secluded beaches and
bays and admire the dramatic Kiama
Blowhole up close.
Montague Island Nature Reserve, off
the coast from Narooma, is home to
the State’s largest colony of fur seals,
as well as little penguins and 15 bird
species. See whales and dolphins in
their natural habitat.
Looking for adventure in the air? One of
the best coastal hang-gliding locations
in the world is at Bald Hill while Skydive
the Beach at Wollongong offers the
ultimate thrill.
The South Coast’s premier winegrowing region is the Shoalhaven
where vineyards are very likely to
combine vines and rolling green
countryside with beautiful ocean
or river views.
There are now 20 vineyards and
11 cellar doors in the region as
well as a thriving food scene
in Berry, Gerroa, Milton and
Ulladulla. Why not dine amongst
the vines in The Silos Restaurant,
Coolangatta Estate or at Cupitt’s
Winery in Ulladulla?
Other dining hotspots include On
the Pier at Batemans Bay, Rick
Stein at Bannisters in Mollymook,
The River Moruya and Zanzibar
Café in Merimbula.
Gibraltar Country Club, Bowral
WATERFALLS, FORESTS AND CAVES
Morton National Park is one of the
State’s largest parks, with sandstone
cliffs, native forests and waterfalls.
Experience nature on a grand scale at
Fitzroy Falls, located in the north of the
park in the Southern Highlands. Access
is via a short walk from the Fitzroy Falls
Visitor Centre where you can learn about
the park’s natural features and wildlife.
Join an Aboriginal Cultural Tour before
taking the boardwalk to views of the falls,
where you can enjoy a bush picnic and
watch out for lyrebirds or swamp wallabies,
green catbirds and eastern whipbirds.
Stretch your legs along the West Rim
Live cricket matches from around
the world, touchscreens, fascinating
memorabilia and tales from cricketing
greats…the International Cricket Hall
of Fame is an enthralling experience
for sports fans.
One of the most enjoyable ways to
explore the coastline and hinterland
south of Sydney, from the Royal
National Park to Nowra, is along the
Grand Pacific Drive.
The 665 metre Sea Cliff Bridge is an
engineering marvel that sweeps out over
the ocean while other highlights are the
beautiful beaches, small villages and
scenic lookouts.
Kiama Blowhole
Another amazing natural attraction not
to miss is further southwest, near Wee
Jasper. Described as one of the most
beautiful cave systems in Australia, Carey’s
Cave is comprised of seven chambers of
stunning crystal formations which can
only be viewed on a guided tour. While
each cave is quite spacious, visitors should
be reasonably mobile to really enjoy this
underground experience. Above ground,
400 million-year-old limestone has
been thrust upwards and eroded into
spectacular geological formations.
CRICKET HERITAGE
A GRAND DRIVE
Lake Macquarie
Walking Track or, if you’re visiting in spring,
don’t miss the East Rim Wildflower Walk.
At Wollongong, the 140 km-drive links
up to the Sydney-Melbourne Coastal
Drive or you can follow a loop drive back
to Sydney via Kangaroo Valley and the
Southern Highlands.
Bowral
Set in the beautiful surrounds of
Bradman Oval in Bowral, it offers plenty
of entertainment as well as cricket
history. Have fun with the interactive
exhibits that help you master the
essentials of the game from bowling
and batting to fielding. Find out how
hard it is, physically, to hit a six or test
your skills as a commentator and learn
about Australia’s most famous cricketer,
Sir Donald Bradman, as well as Ricky
Ponting and other international greats.
Morton National Park
COOMA COTTAGE
A very different heritage experience
is on show on the banks of the Yass
River, at Cooma Cottage. Located
in the heart of the rich sheepgrazing country of the Southern
Tablelands, this colonial-era
bungalow was the home of noted
explorer, Hamilton Hume.
Now on the National Trust list and
open to the public, this beautiful
homestead features Palladian-style
wings, a Greek Revival portico, all the
accoutrements of 19th century living,
stables, Georgian furnishings and a
herb garden.
NSW REGIONS
NSW REGIONS
SYDNEY
MID NORTH COAST
THE MURRAY
SYDNEY
Main Beach, Forster
DRIVE THE COAST
The Legendary Pacific Coast drive
stretches from Sydney to Brisbane and
is one of the best and most scenic ways
to explore the Mid North Coast.
Start with Port Stephens, where
bushwalking, dolphin and whale
watching cruises, snorkelling and diving
are all on offer. Thrill-seekers can hire
a jet ski or join a quad bike tour on the
sand dunes of Stockton Beach.
In Myall Lakes National Park, hire a
houseboat or runabout, go fishing,
paddling, swimming or surfing at nearby
Forster, South West Rocks or Crescent
Head. Visit Port Macquarie’s koala hospital
and Sea Acres Rainforest Centre where
an elevated boardwalk makes exploring
the sub-tropical rainforest easy. See
Ellenborough Falls near the historic town
of Wingham, and walk along the legendary
V-Wall at Nambucca Heads. Check out the
Big Banana at Coffs Harbour, as well as
Muttonbird Island Nature Reserve to see
thousands of wedge-tailed shearwaters
skim across the water at dawn.
SPOIL YOURSELF
A
few very special experiences
allow you to indulge the body
and the soul.
}
Enjoy the taste of freshly-shucked,
creamy Sydney rock oysters from
Stone’s Oysters and Seafood at
Coopernook, north of Taree
}
Savour fresh seafood and other
local produce that features on
the menu at award-winning The
Corner Restaurant located in
Port Macquarie
}
Soak up the relaxing ambience
of a fully-furnished American
Indian-style tipi at Kings Creek
Retreat in the Taree hinterland.
The kids will love the farm
activities too!
Coffs Harbour
Go surfing at Crescent Head, a National
Surfing Reserve where you’re surrounded
by long stretches of uncrowded beaches
and a string of coastal national parks.
Swim right through the centre of a small
rocky island for an unforgettable dive at
Fish Rock Cave, offshore from South West
Rocks. One of the best dives in Australia,
Fish Rock Cave is home to an amazing
array of marine life.
Ever thought of whale watching from a
helicopter? In Coffs Harbour, you can
do just that, viewing beautiful beaches,
pods of dolphins and whales during their
annual migration along the coast.
TAKE ME TO THE RIVER
As the world’s fourth largest river
system, and Australia’s longest river,
the Murray is one of the country’s most
iconic waterways.
The best way to experience everything
the Murray has to offer is by taking a
leisurely trip along the river and creating
your own memorable holiday adventures.
You’ll find luxury houseboats for hire
catering to all kinds of groups from
Echuca and Mildura or hop aboard an
historic paddle steamer for a nostalgic
day trip up the river: they depart
regularly from ports along the river. Chill
out as you paddle along the river passing
through the world’s largest stand of
river red gums in Barmah National Park
or pitch your tent in an idyllic riverside
location and fish for your dinner.
You may be lucky enough to catch a
famed Murray cod, Australia’s largest
freshwater fish. Pick up the pace on the
river with high-speed water sports, such
as waterskiing or wakeboarding.
Fishing on the Murray
AMAZING ADVENTURES
Whether you think you know this region
well or you’re keen to discover it, you’ll be
thrilled by these amazing experiences.
Golfing beside the Murray River
Ellenborough Falls
Hire a houseboat on the Murray
EXPLORE THE REGION
T
wo very different experiences
await the traveller: championship
golf courses and a World Heritage
national park.
}
Enjoy a game of golf at one of
the fine courses that line the
Murray where natural beauty
combines with world-class
golfing facilities, attracting
players from across the globe
}
Explore some of the oldest
archaeological finds in the world
at Mungo National Park which
also features the Walls of China,
a 30 km-long dune formation.
TASTE THE MURRAY
Pack your picnic basket with produce
from a local market, or dine in style by
the river; there’s a flavour to suit all
tastes and budgets along the Murray.
Here are just a few tips to help you enjoy
a taste of the region. Why not leave the
car behind and join a winery tour at
Corowa, Albury or dine aboard an historic
paddle steamer?
Taste your way along Mildura’s ‘feast
street’ – book ahead for dinner at the
famous Stefano’s – or sip on craft beers
from the Mildura Brewery. The Murray
wine regions include Mildura, Swan
Hill and Perricoota, and offer plenty of
flavour and variety at their cellar doors.
Perfect for tastebud touring!
NSW REGIONS
NSW REGIONS
SYDNEY
NEW ENGLAND
NORTH WEST
CENTRAL COAST
SYDNEY
THE COAST ON FOOT
Milly Hill Farm, Armidale
CLIMB THE ROCK
ARMIDALE & BEYOND
Expansive views over the New England
North West region are your reward for
climbing to the summit of the largest
exposed monolith in the southern
hemisphere in Bald Rock National Park.
A guided historical tour of Armidale
and a thrilling chopper tour of gorge
country are highly recommended
experiences for visitors.
The dramatic granite dome and archways
loom in and out of view as you make your
way upwards on the gentle, three-hour
return walk. Locals say the best views
are in Winter and Autumn, when the air is
fresh and the light crisp.
With 17 national parks including the
spectacular Mt Kaputar National Park,
this region has plenty to offer anyone
who enjoys exploring the great outdoors.
The region’s natural attractions are truly
inspiring, offering opportunities to go
bushwalking, bird-watching, canoeing,
fishing and exploring.
}
A
rmidale’s Aboriginal and European
heritage is revealed on a 2.5-hour bus
tour, stopping at the New England
Regional Art Museum, the Aboriginal
Cultural Centre, Railway Museum and
historic Booloominbah Homestead
}
T
he Flight of the Seven Gorges
introduces you to the rugged beauty
of the spectacular gorges and
waterfalls of New England National
Park; this helicopter tour departs
from Armidale Airport.
Sawn Rocks at Mt Kaputar National Park
UNCOVERING HERITAGE
History and heritage are woven into
the fabric of every town in the New
England North West region, with
impressive art deco architecture,
colonial-era farming equipment and
historic railways.
Tenterfield Saddler
Follow the Tenterfield Heritage Trail
to historic landmarks that include the
beautifully-restored Sir Henry Parkes
Memorial School of Arts, and Stannum
House - built in 1888 for wealthy
mining magnate, John Holmes Reid.
The Tenterfield Railway Museum is a
nineteenth century railway precinct.
When the line was completed in 1888, it
linked Sydney and Brisbane. Centenary
Cottage and Museum, and the
Tenterfield Saddler are other highlights
of Federation-era Tenterfield.
Another way to uncover the region’s
many heritage attractions is by following
a local touring route such as the Glen
Innes Tourist Drive or the Uralla and
Surrounds Tourist Drive. The New
England Highway passes through
Tamworth, best known as the country
music capital of Australia and home to
the Walk a Country Mile museum.
Maitland Bay at
Bouddi National Park
FUN ON THE COAST
You’re never far from adventure on NSW’s
Central Coast – whether you’re riding a
quad bike through the bush, learning to
surf or flying through the treetops.
At Glenworth Valley, saddle up at
Australia’s largest horse-riding and
adventure park which has horses and
trails to suit all levels of riding experience.
Your first stop should be the Australian
Reptile Park, home to daily live shows,
ever-changing exhibits and a collection
of koalas, wombats, platypus and other
native animals.
For a deep-sea adventure, explore the
wonderful underwater life of NSW’s
first artificial reef where the ex-HMAS
Adelaide forms an artificial dive reef off
the coast near Terrigal. You’ll also find
plenty of great surfing beaches which
have accredited surf schools; Umina,
Avoca, Terrigal and The Entrance are a
few of the best locations.
For more action, the Treetop Adventure
Park offers kids aged from three and
up the chance to take on over 100
challenges, including 20 flying fox rides.
TWO OF THE BEST
}
The historic Convict TrailCaption
on theto go here.
boundary of Dharug National Park is
part of the World Heritage-listed Old
Great North Road. Take your time
to explore the fine relics of convict
engineering along the 43 km-section
open to walkers and mountain bike
riders; walks range from leisurely
one-hour strolls to three-day hikes
}
Uncover the nautical history of the
State’s last manned lighthouse
at Norah Head. Opened in 1903,
it also has accommodation in the
lighthouse keeper’s cottage
}
The 8 km-Bouddi Coastal Walk
from Putty Beach to MacMasters in
Bouddi National Park is regarded as
one of the region’s most beautiful.
Enjoy sweeping views, shady
rainforest and inviting picnic spots.
Pelican feeding at The Entrance
T
wo experiences not to miss on
the Central Coast are the wildlyentertaining pelican feeding at
The Entrance and the region’s
beautiful fresh seafood.
}
The pelican feeding sessions take
place every day of the year at
3.30pm and are absolutely free
}
The region’s sweet, fresh seafood is
available from Hardys Bay to Pearl
Beach, The Entrance, Terrigal and
Woy Woy. Seafood dining highlights
include Terrigal’s Reef Restaurant
and The Cowrie, Ocean Restaurant
at Blue Bay, Pearls on the Beach
and Manfredi’s at Bells.
NSW REGIONS
SYDNEY
Discover New
South Wales
THE HUNTER
GREAT EXPECTATIONS
Hunter Valley
R
elax and rejuvenate in the
Hunter Region.
THE FOOD AND WINE LOVERS’ HOLIDAY
}
Enjoy an exhilarating sunrise flight in
a hot air balloon above the vineyards
The Hunter Valley has all the essential
ingredients for a fabulous food and wine
short break at any time of year… 20 top
class wineries, vineyards and cellar doors,
60 restaurants and 160 places to stay.
}
Tee off on one of the Hunter Valley’s
championship golf courses
Sampling the Hunter Valley’s signature
wines on their home turf is a highlight;
Hunter Valley semillon has been
described as a national treasure while
Hunter Valley shiraz is a very foodfriendly and age-worthy variety. This is
one of the best regions in Australia to
really indulge a love of food and wine.
Local chefs and producers champion
food provenance and sustainable
production which is reflected in the
produce and menus. Indulge in locallyfarmed fish, the region’s signature spicy
grape sauce and grapes fresh from the
vine. Smokehouse goods, olive oil and
olives, cheese, chocolates and coffee
are also produced here.
Beachside Newcastle is in the midst of
a culinary and arts renaissance. Eating
out has never been more enjoyable
so check out the city’s four distinctive
dining neighbourhoods - The Boardwalk
at Honeysuckle Wharf, Beaumont Street
in Hamilton, Darby Street in Cooks Hill
and The Junction.
}
Soak up the fragrant ambience of
Hunter Valley Gardens
}
Follow Newcastle’s coastal walk, the
Bather’s Way, a beachside trail with
sublime ocean views
}
Sample country life at a
thoroughbred horse stud in the
Upper Hunter
}
Discover the subtropical rainforest
of Barrington Tops National Park
}
For an adrenalin rush, try
sandboarding or four-wheel driving
at Stockton Beach.
1F
Barrington Tops National Park
LAKES OF FUN
Hire a boat, charter a yacht or
join an eco-kayaking tour of Lake
Macquarie, an aquatic playground
that’s perfect for a relaxing short
break. Speed up the action on a
jet-boat ride; you’ll see more of
this huge lake!
Swimming, sailing, water skiing
and fishing are some of the most
popular activities on Lake St
Clair, an inland lake nestled in the
foothills of the Mount Royal Range
north of Singleton. Take the kids
on an adventure holiday to the
well-located campsite by the lake.
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Leisure Inn Spires,
Blue Mountains
BreakFree Eco Beach,
Byron Bay
Spicers Vineyard Estate,
Hunter Valley
Airfare, 3 nights + car hire
Airfare, 3 nights 4-star
Airfare, 3 nights 5-star + car hire
from
from
ADL
BNE
609
$
*
CNS
639
$
MEL
*
$
HBA
769
*
$
*
725
*
$
CBR
825
*
$
1105
$
$
HBA
845
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ADL
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$
MEL
935
$
*
ADL
765
$
*
SYD
*
BNE
1225
$
*
$
MEL
675
• Pay for 2 nights & get 1 night FREE
•4 days car hire
• Return transfers
• Half-day Learn to Surf Lesson
Leisure Inn Spires is set in landscaped
gardens only a short stroll to
Leura Mall.
This hotel is ideally located a short walk
from Byron Bay’s exlectic hub and provides
the perfect base to explore the Northern
Rivers region.
*
HBA
1355
$
*
1245
$
*
PER
1205
$
*
CNS
975
*
1589
$
*
• Pay for 2 nights & get 1 night FREE
• Breakfast daily
• 4 days car hire
• Wine Indulgence Tour
BONUS FREE WiFi & FREE stocked
minibar on arrival.
131 600
flightcentre.com.au
Jet-boating, Lake Macquarie
Restrictions and conditions apply. Please ask us for further details or visit our website at www.flightcentre.com.au. *Travel restrictions and conditions apply. Please ask us for further details. Prices and taxes are correct as of 10 Apr 14 and are subject
to change without notice. Updates and corrections to advertised products including pricing may be found at www.flightcentre.com.au/ads. Prices quoted are on sale until 11 Jun 14 unless otherwise stated or sold out prior. Prices are per person and are
subject to availability. Accommodation (if included) is based on twin share. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply depending on date of travel. Additional fees, including surcharges and visa fees specific to your departure date or flight routing,
may apply. Where airfare is included, additional taxes specific to your flight routing may apply and/or may not include checked luggage (which can incur additional charges). Payments made by credit card will incur a surcharge. International airfares &
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FCBNM_R60303
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R
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EE
NSW REGIONS
NSW REGIONS
SYDNEY
SNOWY MOUNTAINS
CENTRAL NSW
SYDNEY
DISCOVER THE BEST
Whether you’re a history buff,
a keen astronomer or an art lover,
seek out these fascinating places.
Vineyards in Orange
YEAR-ROUND ADVENTURE
Every season in the Snowy Mountains
offers something different, with
stunning scenery and a huge range of
things to see and do.
From June to October, crisp days, soft
powder and roaring fires are the main
drawcard of the NSW snowfields as well as
fun and excitement. Thredbo’s runs range
from the beginner-friendly Friday Flat to
some of the region’s most challenging
slopes. Mega-resort, Perisher, links four
alpine villages – Perisher Valley, Smiggin
Holes, Guthega and Blue Cow – and offers
a wide selection of trails. Ski-in-ski-out
Charlotte Pass is the highest resort in
NSW, accessible via over-snow transport;
short lift queues, excellent cover and all-
inclusive packages make it a favourite with
families. For day trips, Selwyn Snowfields
is also perfect for beginners.
When the weather becomes warmer, it’s
time for mountain-biking (including the
new Thredbo Valley Track from Thredbo
village to Lake Crackenback Resort),
cycling and hiking surrounded by the
stunning alpine beauty. Trout fishing
in pristine rivers, lakes and streams is
world class while horse trekking will
give you a real taste of ‘Man from Snowy
River’ adventure. A meandering road
tour of the region showcases everything
this stunning region has to offer – aweinspiring scenery, quaint towns and
villages, and events for everyone.
ADVENTURE CHECK LIST
}
Horse trekking – a true ‘Man from
Snowy River’ experience
}
National Parks Discovery Tours,
Kosciuszko National Park
}
Segway Eco Tours, Crackenback
}
Snowy Hydro Discovery Centre, Cooma
}
Thredbo Guided Walks, near
Thredbo Village
}
The magnificent road touring routes
in Summer
}
Yarrangobilly Caves, located on the
Snowy Mountains Highway between
Cooma and Tumut.
INDULGE YOURSELF
Take your tastebuds touring in Central
NSW and you’ll enjoy some of the
best food and wine experiences that
Regional NSW has to offer.
The region’s fine local produce is the star
attraction, celebrated at the cellar door,
the farm gate, at farmers’ markets and
in restaurants, cafés and food and wine
events. You’ll find a mouth-watering array
in produce stores that sell everything from
coffee beans to goat’s cheese, freshlybaked breads, hand-pressed olive oils and
market baskets.
You’ll also find many well-established
and distinguished restaurants where
you can sample the very best. Start
your journey in Mudgee, the home of
WILD NIGHTS
Courabyra Wines, Tumbarumba
EATING OUT
Whether you’re seeking a casual bite or
a gourmet dining experience, you’ll find
plenty of options in this diverse region.
Mountain biking in Thredbo
Winter brings mulled wine and fruity
schnapps by an open fire while warmer
weather is perfect for award winning
wines from the Tumbarumba wine region.
Australian chardonnay and famous for its
full-bodied red wines. Today there are 36
cellar doors and 12 wineries producing a
wide range of other varieties that thrive
in the Mediterranean-style climate.
Along with quality olive oils, tapenades,
honey, nuts, specialist cheese and freerange pork are some of the delicious
ingredients you’ll find locally.
Orange, Cabonne and Blayney comprise
the Orange wine region which produces
cool-climate grapes of great flavour and
colour. The most popular varieties right
now are shiraz, chardonnay and sauvignon
blanc which you can taste at the cellar
door or in fine bars, cafés, restaurants and
pubs in Orange, Bathurst and Wellington.
}
Towns with historical pasts:
Condobolin, Gulgong, Grenfell,
Forbes, and Sofala (gold-rush era),
Coonamble (Museum Under the
Bridge), Mendooran (Mendooran
Mural Town) and Narromine
(Aviation Museum)
}
Astronomy: The beauty of the Milky
Way is best observed from the
CSIRO radio telescope at Parkes,
Siding Spring Observatory and
Warrumbungle Observatory
}
Artists: Towns that inspired
some of Australia’s best artists
include Hill End and Sofala;
fine regional galleries are in
Bathurst, Cowra, Grenfell and
Orange, Coonamble (Outback
Arts Gallery) and Gulargambone
(Bourbah Street Murals).
Wine tasting in Central NSW
When you stay overnight at Taronga
Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo, you’ll
wake up surrounded by some
amazing animals – the deck of a
Zoofari Lodge overlooks the savannah
where giraffes, zebras and antelopes
roam. This exciting open-range zoo is
home to 700 animals from around the
world and, whether you fancy meeting
meerkats or learning why hippos
make great swimmers, you’ll find the
experience right here. Explore the
highlights along a 6 km-circuit by car,
bike, cart or on foot.
NSW REGIONS
NSW REGIONS
SYDNEY
THE RIVERINA
OUTBACK NSW
SYDNEY
Canola field near Coolamon
THE EARTHY RIVERINA
In Spring, when the cereal crops are in
full swing and the vast yellow canola
fields stretch into the distance, visitors
are reminded of just how fertile the
Riverina region is.
Often referred to as the ‘food bowl of
Australia’, it produces the majority of the
State’s citrus fruit, rice and wine grapes.
While semillon is the stand-out grape
variety, you’ll taste many different styles
at cellar doors along the wine trails in the
Griffith area. Highlights include De Bortoli
Wines, Westend Estate Wines, McWilliams
Hanwood Estate and Yarran Wines.
A more recent attraction is Thirsty Crow,
Wagga Wagga’s first microbrewery;
savour a beer and sample local produce
in their antipasti and on pizzas. The
Junee Licorice and Chocolate Factory
is another standout foodie experience
where you can enjoy a Devonshire tea
with organic coffee, cookies and licorice.
HISTORY ALIVE!
A range of fascinating history
and heritage attractions awaits
in the Riverina.
}
Temora Aviation Museum has one
of the world’s finest collections of
flying historic aircraft and holds
monthly flying days
}
Gundagai’s Dog on the Tucker Box
monument has long been a stopover
for travellers; today there’s also a
garden, picnic area and café
}
Immerse yourself in the colonial
heritage of the region along the
Long Paddock drive stretching from
Deniliquin to Hay and beyond
}
The Peppin Heritage Centre at
Deniliquin tells the story of the
region’s merino sheep industry.
ARTS AND PARKS
The National Art Glass Gallery in Wagga
Wagga houses a world-class collection
of absolutely beautiful contemporary
art glass. Be amazed by the beauty of
stained glass, engraved, sand-blown,
etched, hot-blown and stunning glass
works of every type.
Citrus sculptures at Griffith Festival of Gardens
Murrumbidgee Valley National Park
protects part of what is now the largest
continuous tract of river red gum forest
in the world. Explore the park at your
own pace or join a kayaking, hiking or
biking tour to unlock its natural secrets.
Living Desert Sculpture, Broken Hill
RARE TREASURES
Eons of sun, wind and rain have etched
the ancient landscape of Outback NSW,
creating a remarkable landscape that
has an almost mystical force.
Experience this firsthand in Mungo
National Park where the ancient dry
lake has the remains of Mungo Man and
Mungo Woman, a rare archaeological
find that’s protected forever by a World
Heritage listing.
From Broken Hill, take a guided tour with
Harry Nanya Outback Tours to Mungo’s
beautiful Walls of China, an extraordinary
rock formation. Or, visit Mutawintji
National Park, 130 km from Broken
Hill with tour guides Tri State Safaris.
Mutawintji is famous for its rich wildlife,
red dirt roads and rugged gorges and
The Walls of China in Mungo National Park
Living Desert Sculpture, Broken Hill
plains stretching into the distance. It also
boasts one of NSW’s largest collections of
Aboriginal rock art at Mutawintji Historic
Site which can only be seen on a guided
tour. At every turn, the ancient wonders of
the historic site are revealed. Aboriginal
rock engravings and ochre stencils, and on
the flat plains, the remains of fireplaces,
stone flakes and grinding stones. Listen to
Aboriginal guides share their Dreamtime
stories in this astonishingly beautiful
setting and you’ll continue on your journey
in a state of awe.
Enjoy the serenity of the Australian
outback at Homestead Creek
campground, the uninterrupted sunrises
and sunsets plus the mesmerising
beauty of the stars in the night sky.
DESERT ART
The Living Desert Sculptures,
9 km from Broken Hill, is a
remarkable attraction, best
viewed at sunset when the golden
yellow and orange of the massive
sandstone sculptures melt into
the breathtaking red and orange
sky of the Outback.
Created in 1993 by sculptors
from countries including
Georgia, Mexico, Syria and the
Tiwi Islands, the sculpture
garden is an inspiring piece of
contemporary art located in an
ancient landscape.
At Lightning Ridge, an 18-m steel
sculpture of an emu welcomes
visitors while rare and beautiful
opals are on show in White Cliffs
and Lightning Ridge.
NSW REGIONS
SYDNEY
SYDNEY
LORD HOWE ISLAND
SPOTLIGHT ON SYDNEY
From May right through to December, Sydney is alive with a packed line-up of world-class
events. Whether you’re travelling to see a sports match, a fabulous festival, or taking time
out with the kids, you’ll find Sydney has plenty to offer at any time of the year. See all that
Sydney has to offer at sydney.com
A MARINE PLAYGROUND
The crystal clear waters around Lord
Howe Island are perfect for a wide
variety of water activities.
Home to more than 500 species of fish
and 90 species of coral, this pristine coral
reef is the southernmost reef in the world.
Your marine adventure starts with
feeding the friendly fish at Neds Beach
where masks, fins and snorkels can
be used by anyone for the cost of
a contribution to the ‘honesty box’.
Snorkelling at Lord Howe Island is
sublime whether from the shore or in
a glass-bottom boat. Erscott’s Hole is
one of the best, famous for the luxuriant
garden of staghorn coral, double-header
wrasse and the chameleon-like blue
fish. Scuba diving is also world class
with more than 60 dive sites ranging
from off-the-beach dives over coral reef
to deep-sea dives including at Balls
Pyramid, the world’s tallest sea stack.
The ‘champagne surf’ of Blinky
Beach attracts keen surfers and body
boarders while popular spots for
kayaking include through the ‘Arch’, or
from Neds Beach to Roach Island, the
largest islet in the Admiralty Group.
EXPLORE ON FOOT
Lord Howe Island’s famous twin peaks,
breathtaking views and natural forest
make it an ideal destination for walkers
and hikers.
Boobie bird with Mt Lidgbird and Mt Gower
Start with a leisurely walk to Transit
Hill which takes about an hour and has
panoramic views over the island and
the ocean. The challenging eight-hour
return climb to the summit of Mt Gower
is rated as one of Australia’s best day
walks; it has rope-assisted climbs and
dizzying drops. But, along the way,
you’ll see some of the island’s rarest
plants and wildlife. Lord Howe Island
is Australia’s premier bird-watching
destination with many spots providing
ideal vantage points for admiring some
of the world’s rarest birds.
IT’S ON IN SYDNEY
NATURE & OUTDOORS
FOOD & WINE
Find out what’s on when and where so
you can start planning your Sydney in
Winter experience. For more
information about events and
accommodation go to sydney.com
You’ll find a long list of outdoor activities
in Sydney that are both healthy and
scenic. Walks, national parks, gardens
and colourful sunsets are just a few of
the natural highlights. Go to sydney.com
Sydney’s dining scene is dynamic,
changing with the seasons as well as the
trends. You’ll find a city that offers the
full spectrum of dining options to suit all
budgets. Find out more sydney.com
SHOPPING & CULTURE
FAMILY FUN
WHERE TO STAY
If you love to shop, you’ll love every
second of shopping time in Sydney. As
well as stunning malls and department
stores, there are weekend markets,
funky boutiques and pop-up stores.
Planning a stress-free holiday in Sydney
with the kids is easy at any time of the
year. There are plenty of family-friendly
attractions and activities that can be
hectic or as chilled out as you like.
From five-star hotels to hostels and
self-contained apartments, Sydney has a
wide range of accommodation to suit all
budgets and tastes. Visit sydney.com to
plan your trip.
Snorkelling at Lord Howe Island
ONLY ON LORD HOWE
Some experiences are unique
to Lord Howe such as teeing
off on one of Australia’s most
picturesque golf courses. It’s
a rare treat to play on World
Heritage turf, surrounded by
mountains, rainforest and ocean.
Cycling is another; with bicycles
the preferred mode of transport
and just 13 km of scenic roads
and tracks, it’s the best way to go.
Tracks wind through rainforest
and past golden beaches where
you can safely leave your bike to
enjoy a refreshing dip.
IT’S ON SYDNEY.COM / 37
SYDNEY
VIVID SYDNEY 2014 HIGHLIGHTS
VIVID IDEAS 2014 GET THE BIG IDEAS
Secure the skills to live up to your dreams at Vivid Ideas 2014, Asia Pacific’s annual celebration of innovation,
creativity and community. Join us between 23 May – 9 June for more than 200 inspirational events.
More than 50 spectacular light installations and sculptures, 3D-mapped building projections,
the Lighting of the Sails of the Sydney Opera House… Vivid Sydney is back in 2014 for 18 days
and nights to light up Sydney in Winter.
Artist impression by 59 Productions†
NEW
Artist impression by Anthony Rawson†
NEW
Artist impression†
NEW
SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
CIRCULAR QUAY
See the stunning Lighting
of the Sails, book tickets to
a Vivid LIVE show from the
extraordinary contemporary
music line-up, join a
backstage tour and visit the
pop-up restaurant and bar.
This colourful precinct is
part of the Light Walk and
has good access to ferries
and Customs House, plus
many harbourside cafés,
bars and restaurants.
MARTIN PLACE
THE ROCKS
Vivid’s new precinct comes
alive with spectacular light
installations. Head to a cosy
bar or restaurant located in
or near Martin Place before
checking out more of
Vivid Sydney.
Follow the amazing Light
Walk and discover the
lighting installations
around the precinct. See
3D-mapped projections
onto the MCA, and chill out
at a cool bar or restaurant.
WALSH BAY
NORTH SYDNEY
Explore the western branch
of the Light Walk, enjoy
a drink in a harbourside
bar or restaurant, or check
out what’s on at Sydney
Theatre and Wharf Theatre.
Use a touchscreen to
light up the bridge before
walking across (or catching
a ferry) to the city, see the
Lighting of the Sails from
afar and enjoy plenty of
casual dining options.
HARBOUR LIGHTS
DARLING HARBOUR
Travel around Sydney
Harbour aboard one of its
newest and most colourful
attractions. Selected ferries
and cruise vessels depart
from Circular Quay and King
Street Wharf.
This is the home of Vivid
Aquatique Water Theatre
as well as the Australian
National Maritime
Museum’s rooftop
projections, bars, cafés
and restaurants.
THE STAR
NEW
The Star joins Vivid Sydney
as the entire facade of the
Astral Tower, The Darling
hotel and the Sky Terrace
rooftop are transformed
into a light show.
38 / START PLANNING YOUR VIVID TRIP NOW! VIVIDSYDNEY.COM
CARRIAGEWORKS
Modular and Carriageworks
takes over the main stage
during Vivid Music. Three
days of music, installations
and ideas in a funky
inner-city venue with
fabulous bars and food.
JOSHY D & MIKE GIANT (REBEL8)
On Collaboration, Commerce and Credibility in Youth Culture
GADI AMIT
On Designing Devices We Love
CANDY CHANG
On Making Art to Make a Difference
SKYLAR TIBBITS
On Shaping Future Manufacturing
RYAN HOLIDAY
On Marketing, Media and Manipulation
SARA CRITCHFIELD
On Media, Marketing and Making People Care
For the full program of free and ticketed events go to: vividsydney.com/ideas
Explore, eat, relax. Repeat.
NSW on SALE fr. $109 p/n
CHECK OUT OUR TOP PICKS ACROSS THE STATE:
The Byron at Byron
Resort and Spa
Absolute Beachfront
Opal Cove Resort
Min. 2 night stay + comp upgrade
Exclusive Deal
fr. $330 p/n
fr. $120 p/n
Byron Bay
Coffs Harbour
Leisure Inn Spires
Blue Mountains
Min. 2 night stay + late checkout
fr. $109 p/n
Cypress Lakes Resort by
Oaks Hotels & Resorts
Hunter Valley
Min. 2 night stay + late checkout
fr. $149 p/n
Book now at lastminute.com.au/nsw
Current at 5 May 2014. Prices shown in AUD. Selected deals only. Limited availability. Conditions and fees apply.
IF IT’S WORTH SEEING OR DOING, IT’S ON IN REGIONAL NSW!
This guide is packed with fabulous events and great ideas for an unforgettable stay in NSW.
Find out more about what’s on in the following regions:
Blue Mountains
Central Coast
Northern Rivers
The Hunter
South Coast
Snowy Mountains
Southern Highlands
and Tablelands
Central NSW
Mid North Coast
Outback NSW
The Murray
New England North West
The Riverina
Lord Howe Island
CONNECT WITH REGIONAL NSW
#NewSouthWales
twitter.com/nswtips
@visitnsw
visitnsw.com
CONNECT WITH SYDNEY
#ilovesydney
@sydney
sydney.com
CONNECT WITH VIVID SYDNEY
facebook.com/vividsydney
#vividsydney
facebook.com/vividideas
twitter.com/vividsydney
youtube.com/vividsydney
twitter.com/vivid_ideas
@vividsydney
plus.google.com/+vividsydney
instagram.com/vivid_ideas
vividsydney.com
#vividideas
Destination NSW advises the details contained in the“Your Guide to Regional NSW” magazine are based on the best available information at time of
printing. The “Your Guide to Regional NSW” magazine highlights the main events and is not a complete list of the events occurring from May 2014
– March 2015. Please go to visitnsw.com and relevant event owner websites for up-to-date information. For all events, please consult the relevant
ticketing agency/location for ticket prices, booking fees, surcharges and applicable taxes. Please consult the ticketing agency/venue for total ticket
prices before purchase. There may be other conditions imposed by the ticketing agency/location as a result of your purchase or attendance. Please
make yourself aware of all conditions before purchase and/or attendance. Please note that individual activities may be subject to change or cancellation
without notice. Location capacity restrictions may apply for some individual activities. Check visitnsw.com and relevant event owner websites for
the latest information. Offers contained in this magazine are by third parties and not Destination NSW and may be subject to change, conditions and
availability. Destination NSW acknowledges and appreciates all photographs and images supplied by photographers and event owners for use in this
magazine. Such photographs and images may be from previous editions of events and may not be an accurate representation of the event elements that
will occur in 2014-15. †Renders are artist impressions only and may not be an accurate representation of the event elements that will occur in 2014-15.

Your Guide to Regional NSW

Transcription

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