Features - Young at Heart holidays

Transcription

YOUNG AT HEART
HOLIDAYS
2016
ALL INCLUSIVE | SMALL GROUP HOLIDAYS
Young at Heart Holidays
Young at Heart Holidays is pleased to present our range of holidays for 2016. As always
we strive to cater for older travellers, mainly in the sixty to ninety plus age range, who enjoy
travelling with other friendly people of similar age and interests.
Many passengers who continue to join our holidays have been with us from the very earliest
days of Young at Heart Holidays when, back in 1989 Malcolm and Jeni Reed commenced as a
husband and wife team, operating both day trips and extended holidays. A huge thank you for
your continued support over the past 27 years!
As our passengers have grown older, we too have amended and modified the type and range
of holidays we offer to reflect passenger requests for easier days, less travelling distances, more
relaxed itineraries and an overall “taking it easy” style.
This year we are concentrating mainly on stayput holidays, where we unpack once and spend a
few days in and around interesting, (and in the winter), warmer destinations. Also included are
event based holidays, including several musical events such as Turandot on Sydney Harbour, My
Fair Lady, and Rhonda Burchmore on Hamilton Island.
Norfolk Island is a perfect YAH destination, and our holidays there are operated by Australian Air
Holidays, another Reed Holidays brand. The Ultimate Norfolk Island Holiday, on pages 22 and
23, is a Young at Heart style holiday – small group of around 15 passengers, all inclusive prices,
with a relaxed, easy paced itinerary. These 8 day holidays depart most Mondays in Autumn and
Spring.
In response to your requests, we have included a 4 and 5 day Lord Howe Island experience. If
Lord Howe is on your bucket list of places to visit, this short break is the perfect opportunity to
tick off another name on your list.
Our friendly reservations team, operations staff and enthusiastic coach captains are here to
ensure your holiday is a hassle free, enjoyable, value for money experience. “Pack your bags, we’ll
do the rest” is, with YAH, not merely a slogan but a reality.
Whether your are joining for the first time or your 40th we look forward to welcoming you on
your Young at Heart Holiday.
Happy travelling
The Young at Heart team
PO Box 172
63 Mahoneys Road
Forest Hill VIC 3131
Phone
(03) 9875 1411
Interstate callers
1800 815 906
[email protected]
www.youngatheart.com.au
ACN 075 188 144
2
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Non Victorian callers: 1800 815 906
Young at Heart Holidays
The Young at Heart Experience
Young at Heart operates specifically designed holidays for the discerning mature age
traveller. We cater specifically and only for you.
Our holidays are an easy pace with relaxed daily travel, both in time and kilometres.
We plan “smell the roses” enjoyable experiences rather than “endurance schedules”.
You won’t need a holiday to recover from exhaustion after a Young At Heart holiday!
Our tours are of “comfort plus” quality.
Our small group luxury coaches carry a maximum of twenty passengers, between eight
and fifteen passengers on most departures.
Our accommodation standard is mostly 4 star or, in rural areas, the best
accommodation available.
We deliver on our theme “pack your bags, we’ll do the rest”.
We offer you the peace of mind of knowing that everything is planned and paid for
and there is always a coach captain/tour manager with you to “make it happen”.
Our small group travellers are couples, friends travelling together, and single travellers,
sometimes travelling alone for the first time.
Our travellers enjoy the company of others of similar age and interests, mix easily and
often make new friends, all in a friendly and caring atmosphere.
Fully escorted holidays, relaxed pace, terrific companions, interesting places, quality
accommodation, good meals, and genuine personal attention – it’s the Young at Heart
way, simply a great way to travel.
All-inclusive fares
Young at Heart’s fares are genuinely all inclusive:
home or hotel pick up and return in the Melbourne metropolitan area
all air, rail or ship travel including taxes and fuel surcharges
comfort-plus ‘‘state of the art’’ coaches
quality comfort plus accommodation
all meals: cooked breakfasts, light lunch, three-course dinners (a la carte,
buffet or group menu with choices)
morning and afternoon teas, all attractions, cruises, scenic flights,
admittances as listed in each itinerary are included in your fare
With everything included, Young at Heart
offers great value for money holidays.
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.youngatheart.com.au
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In This Brochure
Young at Heart Experience
3
NEW SOUTH WALES
46
Coaches3
Port Macquarie Holiday
47
State by State 4
Coffs Harbour Holiday 48
Loyalty Bonus
8
Port Stephens and the Hawkesbury
49
Joining Arrangements
8
Newcastle and The Hunter Valley 50
Majestic Mountains
51
SPECIAL EVENTS 9
Easter in Hawkesbury
10
QUEENSLAND52
Turandot on Sydney Harbour
11
Discover Brisbane City Stay
54
Christmas in July 12
Noosa Holiday
55
My Fair Lady 13
Hervey Bay Holiday
56
Tulip Time and Canberra Floriade 14
The Discovery Coast
57
Tasmanian Gardens and Craft Fair 15
Rainforest and the Sunshine Coast
58
Hamilton Island with Rhonda Burchmore
16 Maroochydore Holiday
Hunter Valley Gardens – Christmas Lights Spectacular17 Queensland Tropical
59
Christmas in Bowral
18
Cairns Holiday
62
Christmas in the Yarra Valley
19
Tweed Coast Holiday
63
New Year in the Blue Mountains
20
Whitsundays Holiday
64
NORFOLK ISLAND HOLDAYS
21
SOUTH AUSTRALIA
65
Ultimate Norfolk Island
22
Kangaroo Island Holiday
66
Lord Howe Island 24
NORTHERN TERRITORY
67
Scenic Delights of Central Australia
68
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
69
Broome Holiday
70
Fremantle Holiday
71
GENERAL INFO
72
Frequentley Asked Questions
73
Conditions of Travel
74
Travel Insurance
75
OVERSEAS25
Fiji – Escape to Paradise Cruise 26
Wellington and Christchurch
28
Bay of Islands Holiday
29
Queenstown Holiday
30
VICTORIA31
Marysville32
4
Gippsland Lakes
33
Victoria’s North East and the Bright Autumn festival
34
RACV Goldfields Creswick
35
Taste of Victoria
36
Echuca and the Murray
38
Goldfields and the Murray
39
Murray River Rambler
40
Daylesford Spa Country Getaway
42
Inverloch - RACV Resort
43
Mornington Peninsula Getaway
44
Bright Holiday
45
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
60
State by State
ACT Tulip Time and Canberra Floriade SOUTH AUSTRALIA
14 Kangaroo Island Holiday
NEW SOUTH WALES
10
11
Christmas in July 12
My Fair Lady 13
66
WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Broome Holiday
70
Fremantle Holiday
71
VICTORIA
Hunter Valley Gardens – Christmas Lights Spectacular17 Marysville32
Christmas in Bowral
18 Gippsland Lakes
33
Coffs Harbour Holiday Port Stephens and the Hawkesbury
Newcastle and The Hunter Valley Majestic Mountains
20 Victoria’s North East and the 47 Bright autumn festival
34
48 RACV Goldfields Creswick
49 Taste of Victoria
35
50 Echuca and the Murray
51 Goldfields and the Murray
38
40
42
NORTHERN TERRITORY
68 Inverloch - RACV Resort
QUEENSLAND
Hamilton Island with Rhonda Burchmore
16
Discover Brisbane City
54
Noosa Holiday
55
Hervey Bay Holiday
56
The Discovery Coast
57
58
Maroochydore Holiday
59
Queensland Tropical
60
Cairns Holiday
62
Tweed Coast Holiday
63
Whitsundays Holiday
64
9
36
39
43
44
Bright Holiday
45
OVERSEAS
Fiji – Escape to Paradise Cruise 26
28
29
Queenstown Holiday
30
TWIN ISLANDS
22
Lord Howe Island 24
5
Departures
Date
Holiday
Page Date
Page
MARCH
JUNE
26 Easter in Hawkesbury10
11 Noosa Holiday55
14 Hervey Bay Holiday56
24 The Discovery Coast57
APRIL
4 Ultimate Norfolk Island22
5 Turandot on Sydney Harbour11
17 Gippsland Lakes33
18 Marysville32
25 Ultimate Norfolk Island22
26 Victoria’s North East and the 34
Bright autumn festival
MAY
2
9
9
16
17
18
23
28
30
6
Holiday
Ultimate Norfolk Island22
RACV Goldfields Creswick35
Taste of Victoria36
Echuca and the Murray38
Discover Brisbane City54
Murray River Rambler40
JULY
10
17
24
25
28
31
Rainforest and the Sunshine Coast58
Christmas in July – Blue Mountains 12
Noosa Holiday55
59
Port Macquarie Holiday47
Broome Holiday
70
AUGUST
3
3
7
11
15
22
Coffs Harbour Holiday 48
Cairns Holiday
62
Fremantle Holiday
71
Queensland Tropical
60
Tweed Coast Holiday
63
Scenic Delights of Central Australia68
Alice Springs and Uluru
24 Port Stephens and the Hawkesbury 49
25 Whitsundays Holiday
64
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Departures
Date
Holiday
Page
Date
Holiday
Page
SEPTEMBER
NOVEMBER
6
6
12
18
19
21
26
1 Tasmanian Gardens and Craft Fair 15
5 A Weekend Escape to Hamilton Island16
with Rhonda Burchmore
7 Ultimate Norfolk Island
22
9 Taste of Victoria
36
22
14 Marysville
32
15 Wellington and Christchurch
28
20 Bright Holiday
45
22
21 Bay of Islands Holiday
29
21 RACV Goldfields Creswick
35
21 Kangaroo Island Holiday
66
27 Queenstown Holiday
30
27 Gippsland Lakes
33
22
28 Marysville
32
My Fair Lady - Sydney Opera House13
Newcastle and The Hunter Valley 50
Tulip Time and Canberra Floriade 14
Lord Howe Island (4 days)
24
22
Lord Howe Island (5 days)
24
22
OCTOBER
22
4 Majestic Mountains 51
22
11 Goldfields and the Murray 39
22
17 Daylesford Spa Country Getaway
20 Fiji – Escape to Paradise Cruise
23 Inverloch - RACV Resort
24 Mornington Peninsula Getaway
42
2
6
43
22
44
22
Coaches
Exclusive to Young At Heart and
absolutely the most spacious
vehicles in Australia, our luxurious 20
passenger vehicles feature leather
reclining passenger seats, full air
bag suspension, full kneel for easy
entry, under floor luggage storage,
individually controlled air conditioning,
large tinted panoramic windows, hot
water urn, onboard galley and the
latest safety features.
DECEMBER
22
12 Hunter Valley Gardens – Christmas 17
Lights Spectacular
22 Christmas in Bowral
18
23 Christmas in the Yarra Valley
19
29 New Year in the Blue Mountains20
Some holidays use local coach
operators and therefore the type of
vehicle may vary in size and features.
These holidays are fully escorted by an
experienced YAH host in addition to
the local driver.
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Loyalty Rewards
Loyalty rewards are our way of saying
“thank you” for your continued support of
Young at Heart Holidays. From your 2nd
holiday with us rewards apply.
Loyalty bonuses MAY BE COMBINED with
early bird or other special fares (but not
including last minute fares).
This offer applies to all holidays advertised
in this brochure. You may even receive a
credit for bookings already made!
Your loyalty reward level can also be used
for holidays operated by our sister brands
Australian Air Holidays and Seniors Coach
Tours.
We believe this is by far the most generous
loyalty reward program of any coach tour
operator in Australia.
LOYALTY BONUS
Previous
Holidays
Next Holiday
Loyalty
Bonus
1
up to 10 days
over 10 days
$30
$50
2 or 3
up to 10 days
over 10 days
$50
$75
4 to 9
up to 10 days
over 10 days
$100
$200
10 to 19
up to 10 days
over 10 days
$150
$250
20 to 29
up to 10 days
over 10 days
$200
$300
30 or more
up to 10 days
over 10 days
$250
$400
Joining Arrangements
For passengers joining our tours in Melbourne, the metropolitan home/hotel pickup
and return includes Geelong and the Bellarine Peninsula, Sunbury in the north west,
Warburton in the east and the Mornington Peninsula in the South East and everywhere
in between.
If you are joining us from interstate, our all inclusive fares include return airfares from/
to your home port. For tours starting in Melbourne and where the fare contains the
notation “*Overnight Melbourne”, accommodation at the centrally located Batman’s
Hill on Collins (or similar hotel), full breakfast and return transfers are also included.
Accommodation is in the 4 star, Club Rooms.
Batman’s Hill on Collins is located right in the heart of Melbourne and a short walk or
tram ride to the Crown Casino, Rialto Towers, Melbourne Aquarium, Southbank and
Docklands precinct.
Transport from Melbourne Airport to your overnight accommodation is with a local
prebooked service.
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Phone: (03) 9875 1411
SPECIAL EVENTS
AIDA ON SYDNEY HARBOUR 2015
New South Wales
Hawkesbury River
6 days, departs Mar 26
Features
• Historic Village of Wisemans Ferry
• Majestic Hawkesbury River
• St Albans Village
• Australia’s Oldest Church
• Blue Mountains Botanic Gardens
• Tobruk Sheep Station
• Riverboat Postmans Cruise
Hawkesbury River
Day 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS, SYDNEY,
WISEMANS FERRY
Morning flights bring us to Sydney
and on arrival we enjoy lunch together
before we depart for the Hawkesbury
only an hour’s drive north west
of Sydney and a world away with
delightful towns and picturesque
National Parks. The World Heritage
listed convict-built Old Northern Road
takes us into Wisemans Ferry and
our home for five nights, Retreat at
Wisemans. Time to unpack and explore
the resort before dinner.
Day 2 (B,L,D) EASTER SUNDAY,
WISEMANS FERRY
Hawkesbury River
Some time to attend church services if
you wish, or a later start. We explore
the hamlet of Wisemans Ferry and take
a stroll through Wisemans Ferry Park
before taking the Webb Creek Ferry
across the Hawkesbury. We wind our
way to the village of St Albans, known
as the “Forgotten Valley” which has
been bypassed by major roads and rail
connections. The village has several
significant links with the early Colony
of NSW, the Old Cemetery containing
graves of some “First Fleeters”. Lunch
here today and time to explore the
village, before returning back to
Wisemans Ferry.
Day 4 (B,L,D) TOBRUK SHEEP STATION
A unique experience today as we make
the short journey to Tobruk Sheep Station.
Relax and enjoy the day as the stockmen
and jillaroos of Tobruk guide us through an
authentic outback show including a sheep
muster and working dog display, sheep
shearing, whip cracking and boomerang
throwing. Enjoy bush tucker such as damper,
Billy Tea and a BBQ lunch. A great day out!
Day 5 (B,L,D)
THE RIVERBOAT POSTMAN CRUISE
In 1910 the Riverboat Postman commenced
his mail run along the lower reaches of
the Hawkesbury River. Some 100 years
later, the mail run still operates and we are
fortunate to join the mail boat on its daily
run. Entertaining stories of the river are
told by the local skippers, as we cruise the
spectacular waterways from Brooklyn to
the upper settlements of the river. Morning
tea and lunch served as we cruise these
delightful waters.
Day 6 (B,L) SYDNEY, HOME PORTS
Following a leisurely breakfast we return to
Sydney. An enjoyable farewell lunch prior
to transferring to Sydney airport, in time to
board our homebound flights. Completing
our relaxing wonderful Easter getaway at this
beautiful destination.
Day 3 (B,L,D) EBENEEZER,
FREEMANS REACH, BLUE
MOUNTAINS BOTANIC GARDENS
Ebeneezer Church
Established in 1809, Ebeneezer Church
is the oldest existing church and we
tour the church, the churchyard and
cemetery. We continue to Freemans
Reach and on to Mount Tomah, in the
upper reaches of the Blue Mountains.
Following lunch we tour the charming
Mount Tomah Botanic Gardens
featuring over 40,000 native, rare and
exotic plants plus sweeping views over
the nearby mountains. Our visit to the
gardens will be a real highlight.
All prices are per person twin share
Adelaide
$3,645
Brisbane
$3,445
Canberra
$3,515
Hobart/Launceston
$3,645
Melbourne
$3,445
Perth
$3,945
Sydney
$3,145
Single supplement
$ 380
Full payment due at time of booking.
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Phone: (03) 9875 1411
New South Wales
4 days, departs Apr 5
Sydney
Features
ART GALLERY OF NSW
Morning flights bring us to Sydney. We
transfer to central Sydney and enjoy lunch
in the leafy surrounds of the Pavilion,
overlooking the Domain. During the
afternoon we browse the exhibitions at the
Art Gallery of New South Wales. We continue
to our hotel for three nights, Rydges Sydney
Central, time to settle in prior to dinner
together at the hotel.
Day 2 (B,L,D) THIRLMERE STATION,
BELGANNY FARM
Today we take a leisurely drive south to
Royal Botanic Gardens
New South Wales Macarthur Region. Once
a booming township of tents housing the
railway workers that constructed the Great
Southern Railway, Thirlmere Station is now
a heritage precinct recounting the colonial
history from the 1860’s. We tour the station
and exhibits. At nearby Camden we visit
convict built Belganny Farm, famous home
of agricultural pioneers, Elizabeth and John
MacArthur, before returning to Sydney.
Vaucluse House
Day 3 (B,L,D) THE ROCKS, SYDNEY
HARBOUR CRUISE, TURANDOT ON
SYDNEY HARBOUR
This morning time to explore the historic
Rocks precinct prior to boarding the MV
Sydney 2000 for a lunch cruise on Sydney
Harbour. Enjoy superb views as we cruise.
Time to relax prior to an early dinner,
before departing for the highlight of our
holiday, the Handa Opera production
of Puccini’s Turandot. Premium class
seating to watch the performance on an
amazing floating stage, set against the
stunning backdrop of the Opera House
and Harbour Bridge. A day sure to be long
remembered!
• Puccini’s Turandot on Sydney Harbour: Best Seats In House
• Trainworks and Belganny Farm
• Historic The Rocks Heritage Precinct
• Sydney Harbour Lunch Cruise
• Vaucluse House
Sydney Harbour Cruise
Day 4 (B,L) VAUCLUSE HOUSE,
WATSONS BAY, SYDNEY, HOME
PORTS
Following a leisurely breakfast we depart
for Vaucluse House, an historic 19th
Century Estate. We tour the house
and extensive picturesque gardens. At
Watson’s Bay we take a stroll along the
foreshore before we gather for a special
farewell lunch at the beautifully restored
Dunbar House. We join homeward flights
at Sydney Airport, returning home with
wonderful memories of the Opera and
Harbour City.
Adelaide
$3,295
Brisbane
$3,095
Canberra
$3,095
Hobart/Launceston
$3,195
Melbourne
$3,095
Perth
$3,395
Sydney
$2,795
Single supplement
$ 300
Full payment due at time of booking.
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Christmas in July – Blue Mountains Holiday
New South Wales
6 days, departs Jul 17
Katoomba
Features
• The Majestic Blue Mountains
• Govett’s Leap
• Three Sisters Lookout, Echo Point
• Everglade House & Gardens
• Jenolan Caves
• Yulefest Lunch at Bygone Beautys
• Farewell Christmas Dinner
It is believed the ‘Christmas in July’
tradition started over 40 years ago
in the Blue Mountains to emulate
celebrations of a Northern hemisphere
Christmas with hearty meals in front
of a warm fireplace. Travel into the
majestic Blue Mountains for a festive
hotel dinner with all the trimmings!
It is a wonderful time of the year to
reignite the spirit and goodwill of
Christmas. We stay at the elegant
Carrington Hotel in Colonial Rooms, all
with walk in showers and lift access.
Day 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS,
SYDNEY, KATOOMBA
Our flight today takes us to the
harbour city of Sydney. On arrival
we journey into the scenic Blue
Mountains and Katoomba. Our home
for five nights is the elegantly restored
Carrington Hotel.
DAY 2 (B,L,D) GOVETT’S LEAP,
BLACKHEATH, WORLD HERITAGE
EXHIBITION
A leisurely start today as we enjoy the
short scenic drive to Govett’s Leap at
Blackheath, one of Australia’s most
famous lookouts for magnificent views.
We visit the Victory Theatre Antique
Centre, located in a former Art Deco
movie theatre. Following lunch we visit
the World Heritage Exhibition at the
Blue Mountains Cultural Centre. We
return to our hotel mid afternoon.
DAY 3 (B,L,D) KATOOMBA, THREE
SISTERS, SCENIC WORLD
More stunning scenery today as we
visit the Three Sisters Lookout and
then Scenic World, home to the Scenic
Railway, Gondola and Skyway. All
offer magnificent views and a unique
experience. Choose the ride to suit
you, or if you like, try all the rides! We
also visit the interesting NSW Toy and
Railway Museum at the historic Leuralla
House. Time this afternoon to explore
the quaint village of Katoomba.
DAY 4 (B,L,D) LEURA VILLAGE,
YULEFEST LUNCHEON, EVERGLADES
HOUSE
This morning we visit the charming Blue
Mountains village of Leura. Browsing time
is essential here! A real treat today as
we enjoy a Yulefest Luncheon at Bygone
Beautys Treasured Teapot Museum.
Following lunch we visit Everglades Historic
House and Garden, one of Australia’s
foremost heritage properties.
DAY 5 (B,L,D) JENOLAN CAVES,
CHRISTMAS DINNER
A later start as we travel through the
mountains to visit the spectacular Jenolan
Caves, considered to be the most
outstanding limestone cave system in
Australia. Enjoy a tour in one of the many
show caves. Lunch in this magnificent
setting. This evening we gather for special
traditional ‘Christmas in July’ dinner at
our hotel. A delicious dinner with all the
Christmas trimmings!
DAY 6 (B,L) SYDNEY, HOME PORTS
Following a relaxing breakfast, we farewell
the magnificent scenery of the Blue
Mountains as we make our way across
the mountains and down the escarpment
to Sydney Airport. We join homebound
flights completing our special Christmas in
July winter holiday in a magnificent part of
Australia.
Carrington Hotel
Adelaide
$3,595
Brisbane
$3,445
Canberra
$3,445
Hobart/Launceston
$3,595
Melbourne
$3,445
Perth*
$4,065
Sydney
$3,095
Single supplement
$ 400
*Pre-tour Sydney.
Three Sisters, Blue Mountains
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Everglades Gardens
Deposit of $350 within 7 days of booking, plus
any additional deposit needed for nonrefundable airfares. Balance due 60 days prior
to departure.
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
My Fair Lady - Sydney Opera House
New South Wales
3 days, departs Sep 6
Sydney
Features
DAY 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS, SYDNEY,
WATSON’S BAY
DAY 3 (B,L) ART GALLERY OF NSW,
THE DOMAIN, Sydney, HOME PORTS
Morning flights bring us to Sydney and
on arrival we travel to the affluent suburb
of Watsons Bay, a sheltered bay with
spectacular views over Sydney Harbour.
Enjoy lunch at the historic Dunbar House,
located a mere 30 metres from the water.
Time to stroll along the foreshore before we
marvel at the stunning 360 degree views
over the city and Harbour from the Sydney
Tower Eye. Our home for two nights is the
Rydges Sydney Central Hotel, Surry Hills.
Following a leisurely breakfast we browse
the various exhibitions at the Art Gallery of
NSW. At the nearby Domain we enjoy our
farewell lunch at the Pavilion Restaurant,
on the edge of the Royal Botanic Gardens,
with views of the city skyline. We transfer to
Sydney Airport and join our homebound
flights, completing our short getaway to
Sydney.
Art Gallery of NSW
DAY 2 (B,L,D) THE ROCKS, HIGH TEA,
MY FAIR LADY, SUNSET DINNER CRUISE
We explore the historic Rocks precinct, set
against the backdrop of the iconic Harbour
Bridge and Opera House. Enjoy the most
English of traditions with an indulgent
High Tea at the elegant Sir Stamford Hotel.
Following lunch we arrive at the Joan
Sutherland Theatre at the Sydney Opera
House, for the matinee performance of
My Fair Lady. A delightful performance!
Later some free time before we board our
Captain Cook cruise for a magnificent sunset
dinner cruise on Sydney Harbour. A perfect
conclusion to a wonderful day in Sydney.
• A Reserve Seating - My Fair Lady at the Sydney Opera House
• Dunbar House, Watsons Bay
• Sydney Tower Eye
• The Historic Rocks Precinct
• Sydney Harbour Dinner Cruise
• Art Gallery of NSW
Celebrating the 60th anniversary of
Lerner and Lowe’s beloved musical
retelling of George Bernard Shaw’s
Pygmalion, My Fair Lady will be
presented at the Sydney Opera
House. In a world first, the original
Eliza Doolittle, Dame Julie Andrews
will direct this glorious production
featuring a stellar cast of Australian
theatre royalty. Join us on a relaxing three day visit to Sydney which
includes a matinee performance of
this delightful show.
Watson Bay
Dinner Cruise on Sydney Harbour
Adelaide
$2,395
Brisbane
$2,295
Canberra
$2,295
Hobart/Launceston
$2,395
Melbourne
$2,295
Perth
$2,595
Sydney
$1,995
Single supplement
$ 200
Deposit of $250 due within 7 days of booking,
plus any additional deposit needed for nonrefundable airfares
Balance due 60 days prior to departure.
13
Tulip Time and Canberra Floriade
New South Wales
Bowral
Canberra
Features
• Tulip Time Festival
• Amazing Canberra Floriade
• Belgenny Farm
• St Saviour’s Anglican Cathedral
• Charming Cockington Green
• Stunning Australian National Botanic Gardens
The climate of the Southern Highlands
of NSW suits English gardens
and extensive private and public
gardens were established as the area
developed.
Bowral is well known for its country
houses, English gardens and garden
festivals. The Bowral Tulip festival is
in its 67th year, with 100,000 tulips
creating a floral wonderland.
Canberra Floriade was established as
to celebrate Australia’s bicentenary,
Australia’s largest floral display held in
Centennial Park. Always inspiring, the
creative displays draw a huge number
of visitors each year.
WOLLONGONG, BOWRAL
Our delightful floral getaway begins on
arrival in Sydney where we meet for a late
lunch. During the afternoon we journey
south towards Wollongong, travelling along
a section of Grand Pacific Drive including
the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge. Take a stroll
through the Wollongong Botanic Gardens
before continuing inland towards the
Southern Highlands and our home for the
next three nights, Peppers Manor House.
Day 2 (B,L,D) TULIP TIME, OPEN
GARDEN VISIT, BRADMAN MUSEUM
Bowral is home to many historic estates and
mansions and was once a retreat for Sydney’s
elite. It is also home to the annual Tulip Time
Festival. This morning we view the hub of
the festival at Corbett Gardens, featuring the
festival’s showpiece, over 100,000 tulips and
25,000 annuals. Stunning scenery! Following
lunch we visit a local open garden and tour
the Bradman Museum at the International
Cricket Hall of Fame and learn of the “Don’s”
early years in Bowral.
Day 3 (B,L,D) THIRLMERE, CAMDEN
Canberra Floriade
Day 5 (B,L,D) CANBERRA FLORIADE
A highlight as we visit Floriade, a spectacular
floral event. Time to stroll at your pace
through the Floriade Gardens, showcasing
one million flowers in bloom and stunning
floral exhibits. Lunch from your choice of
vendors. Later we tour New Parliament House
and visit the famous Cockington Green and
Gardens, a delightful miniature English Village.
Once a booming township of tents housing
the railway workers that constructed the
Great Southern Railway, Thirlmere Station is
now a heritage precinct . We tour the station
and exhibits and learn how the railways
brought life to NSW’s rural townships.
At nearby Camden we visit convict built
Belgenny Farm, famous home of agricultural
pioneers, Elizabeth and John Macarthur.
Day 6 (B,L,D) CANBERRA
This morning a drive through the Embassy
precinct before arriving at Old Parliament
House for a guided tour. Later we visit the
Australian War Memorial. Lunch here in
the café. During the afternoon enjoy the
360 degree views from the Black Mountain
Tower and then stroll through the Australian
National Botanic Gardens, the largest living
collection of Australian Native with the Flora.
Day 7 (B,L) CANBERRA, HOME PORTS
Just a short drive outside of Canberra takes us
to the Tulip Top Gardens. This 10 acre garden
of magnificent tulips and other spring flowers
creates a spectacular display. Following our
farewell lunch here our delightful holiday draws
to a close as we transfer to Canberra airport to
join home bound flights.
Tulip Festival
Day 4 (B,L,D) BOWRAL, GOULBURN,
CANBERRA
Cockington Green
We depart for Goulburn visiting the National
Trust classified Riverdales Homestead,
originally a wayside inn. Enjoy the beautiful
gardens and the homestead’s large
collection of colonial furniture. Following
lunch we visit St Saviour’s Anglican
Cathedral, the most richly decorated of
any Australian church. A short drive and
we arrive in Canberra. A brief city tour of
the nation’s capital, prior to settling in to
our home for three nights, The Burbury
Canberra.
Adelaide
$4,070
Brisbane
$3,895
Canberra
$3,645
Hobart/Launceston
$4,070
Melbourne
$3,895
Perth*
$4,540
Sydney
$3,720
Single supplement
$ 670
* Pre-tour Sydney
to departure.
14
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Tasmanian Gardens and Craft Fair
Launceston
6 days, departs Nov 1
Tasmania
Features
Day 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS, LAUNCESTON
Today we arrive into the attractive city of
Launceston. We visit the beautiful Cataract
Gorge with its unique cliffside formations.
There is time to wander the gardens or ride
the longest single span chairlift, spectacular
views! Later we arrive at our home for five
nights, Hotel Grand Chancellor Launceston.
Day 2 (B,L,D) TASMANIAN GARDENS
A pleasant drive to the Dorset Museum
and Oakdene Gardens in Scottsdale. The
camellias, rhododendrons and azaleas should
be in full bloom! Morning tea and time to
wander. Lunch at the quaint Scottsdale Art
Gallery Café before we visit the Hillside
Cottage Gardens at nearby Jetsonville. We
stop at the Bridestowe Lavender Estate, one
of the world’s largest and oldest plantations
of true lavender. With manicured fields
and beautiful gardens this is sure to be a
delightful visit, although the lavender will not
be in flower. We enjoy a lavender inspired
afternoon tea before returning to Launceston.
Day 3 (B,L,D) CITY PARK, TAMAR VALLEY
It is a short walk this morning from our hotel
to the beautiful City Park, featuring mature
trees and shrubs, a display of annual flowers,
Japanese Macaque monkey enclosure and
the John Hart Conservatory. Also here is The
Albert Hall, a significant Victorian building,
where we enjoy morning tea. Leaving
Launceston we follow the picturesque Tamar
River to Beauty Point, our lunch stop. During
the afternoon we visit two unique attractions
here. At Platypus House see platypuses and
echidnas in daylight conditions, actively
feeding during our guided tour. Then
at Seahorse World, view this fascinating
aquarium dedicated to conservation of the
seahorse and other amazing sea creatures.
A delightful day out!
Tasmanian Craft Fair
2
Day 4 (B,L,D) WOOLMERS ESTATE,
ENTALLY HISTORIC SITE
This morning we tour the World
Heritage Woolmer’s Estate and National
Rose Garden. A fascinating reflection
of colonial life in Tasmania with the
Rose Garden displaying one of the
finest collections of historic roses in
the southern hemisphere. We have a
guided tour prior to a light lunch in the
servant’s quarters. Later we visit the
beautifully preserved Entally Historic
site, surrounded by magnificent gardens
and a vineyard. Afternoon tea here
before returning to our hotel.
Day 5 (B,L,D) TASMANIAN CRAFT
FAIR
Today visit the 36th annual Tasmanian
Craft Fair in Deloraine! Explore the
exhibits at your own pace, lunch from
your choice of vendors. Deloraine is also
home to the amazing ‘Yarns Artwork in
Silk’, a beautiful example of embroidery,
cross-stitch and quilting techniques, a
must see!
Day 6 (B,L) LAUNCESTON, HOME
PORTS
Following a leisurely breakfast we take
a short cruise into the majestic Cataract
Gorge. Later we visit the Tasmanian
Gourmet Sauce Company, sample
delicious local sauces, conserves and
condiments. We tour the Ericvale Open
Garden and Topiary Nursery before
our gourmet barbeque lunch in this
enchanting setting. We transfer to
Launceston Airport to join flights to
home ports, completing our delightful
crafts and gardens holiday in Tasmania.
Bridestowe Lavender Farm
3
• 36th Annual Tasmanian Craft Fair
• Bridestowe Lavender Farm
• Picturesque Tamar Valley
• Woolmers Estate and Rose Garden
• Entally Historic Site
• Tasmanian Gourmet Sauce Co. and Gardens
From a small beginning over 35
years ago Deloraine Rotary Club’s
craft fair has grown into Australia’s
largest working craft fair with over
200 exhibitors. Held across nine
venues in the picturesque township of
Deloraine, transportation is by shuttle
coaches or you may choose to walk
between venues. The quality crafts
which can be found on show and for
sale are as diverse as woodcarvings,
hand blown glassware, leather and
metal work, pottery, lead lighting,
embroidery, silver and goldsmiths, oil
paintings and water-colours.
Tamar River
1
Adelaide
$3,685
Brisbane
$3,685
Canberra
$3,685
Hobart/Launceston
$3,185
Melbourne
$3,485
Perth*
$4,140
Sydney
$3,585
Single supplement
$ 440
* Pre-tour Melbourne.
to departure.
15
A Weekend Escape to Hamilton
with Rhonda Burchmore
Island
Hamilton
Island
Features
• 2 nights accommodation on Tropical Hamilton Island
• Private beachside performance by Rhonda Burchmore and Opera Scholars Australia
• Whitsundays Sunset Dinner Cruise
• Unique Breakfast with the Koalas
With a smile that could light up the
Sydney Opera house and a voice that’s
as big, bold and colourful as Uluru,
Rhonda Burchmore has endeared
herself to the hearts of all Australians
for over 30 years.
Highlights of Rhonda’s illustrious
career include performing on London’s
West End in a number of musicals
such as Sugar Babies featuring Mickey
Rooney and Ann Miller and starring
opposite David Atkins in the original
Hot Shoe Shuffle.
Other productions include lead roles
in Annie Get Your Gun, Mame, Easter
Parade, They’re Playing Our Song,
Guys and Dolls and as Tanya in the
original Australian production of
Mamma Mia!
We are extremely thrilled to have
Rhonda perform exclusively for us on
Hamilton Island.
Rhonda will be supported by two of
Australia’s up and coming performers
from Opera Scholars Australia for
an enjoyable afternoon of musical
entertainment. A highlight of our
weekend island escape.
Hamilton Island
Queensland
Travelling in association with
HAMILTON ISLAND
Day 3 (B,L) HAMILTON ISLAND, HOME
PORTS
We arrive into tropical Hamilton Island,
in the heart of the beautiful Whitsunday
Islands. A welcome lunch and then time to
explore the island, stroll the marina prior
to checking in at the Reef View Hotel, our
home for two nights. Late afternoon enjoy
the scenic views over the Whitsundays from
One Tree Hill lookout, a delightful setting for
our pre dinner drinks. Dinner at the resort
on our return.
Following a leisurely breakfast there is time
for a swim, walk along the beach or enjoy
some last minute shopping. We visit the
Hamilton Island Art Gallery before our
farewell lunch at the Marina. We return to
the airport with lasting memories of our
Hamilton Island weekend escape.
Whitsundays
Day 2 (B,L,D) HAMILTON ISLAND,
RHONDA BURCHMORE and GUESTS,
SUNSET DINNER CRUISE
A later start today as we enjoy ‘breakfast
with the koalas‘ at the Wildlife Habitat
and the opportunity to get up close to
some of our native animals, if you wish.
Refreshments on the lawns overlooking
the picturesque Catseye Beach prior to
enjoying a delicious lunch at our beautiful
beachside venue. Marvel at the captivating
talents of Rhonda Burchmore as she
performs exclusively, supported by two
talented Opera Scholars. Late afternoon
we board the Denison Star for a relaxing
sunset dinner cruise along the magnificent
waterways of the Whitsundays. A fitting
conclusion to a magical day on Hamilton
Island.
Rhonda Burchmore
Adelaide
$3,075
Brisbane
$2,675
Canberra
$2,875
Hobart/Launceston
$3,075
Melbourne
$2,875
Perth*
$3,580
Sydney
$2,775
Single supplement
$ 300
*Pre-tour Melbourne
to departure.
16
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
New South Wales
Hunter Valley Gardens – Christmas Lights Spectacular
Hunter Valley
Gardens
5 days, departs Dec 12
Day 1 (D) HOME PORTS, NEWCASTLE,
KURRI KURRI, POLKOLBIN Day 3 (B,L,D) MAITLAND, MORPETH,
CHRISTMAS LIGHTS SPECTACULAR
Today we fly to Newcastle to begin our
special holiday. We travel to Kurri Kurri
where we view the amazing murals that
are located throughout the township. Our
home for the next four nights is Harrigan’s
Irish Pub, located within the famous
Hunter Valley Gardens.
Some time to explore the village shops
adjacent to our hotel. Later in the morning
visit a local winery and enjoy lunch. This
afternoon we take a leisurely drive to
Maitland and Morpeth, a quaint village with
a rich history. Following an early dinner we
return to the gardens to view the Christmas
Lights Spectacular, the largest lights display
in the Southern Hemisphere. A night sure
to be long remembered!
Day 2 (B,L,D) HUNTER VALLEY
GARDENS, CESSNOCK, HUNTER
VALLEY CHEESE FACTORY
We spend a leisurely day exploring the
Hunter Valley Gardens, Australia’s largest
garden display spanning 25 hectares.
Stroll amongst the displays, take in the
superb views from the lookout, sit and
ponder at the 10 metre high waterfall at
the Sunken Garden or step back in time at
Storybook Garden. This afternoon we visit
Cessnock and the Hunter Valley Cheese
Factory.
Hunter Valley Gardens Christmas Lights
Day 4 (B,L,D) NEWCASTLE HARBOUR
CRUISE, NEWCASTLE TALKING TRAM
We return to Newcastle and board the
Moonshadow IV, a Supercat catamaran,
where we spend an enjoyable morning
cruising Newcastle Harbour. Take in the
wonderful views along the foreshore and
headlands as we cruise. Following lunch
we take a ride with a difference on the
famous Newcastle Tram as it rumbles past
the major attractions of central Newcastle
and along the waterfront.
Day 5 (B,L) FIGHTERWORLD,
NEWCASTLE, HOME PORTS
Departing our hotel we return to
Newcastle Airport, also home to the
Williamtown RAAF base. At Fighterworld
Aviation Museum, we view the
comprehensive display of the history of
the Royal Australian Air Force. Following
lunch here we board our flights home,
completing our enjoyable pre Christmas
Getaway.
Features
• Hunter Valley Gardens
• Historic Maitland and Morpeth
• Christmas Lights Spectacular
• Newcastle Harbour Cruise
• Newcastle Tram
View the largest display
of Christmas Lights in the
Southern Hemisphere
Stay onsite at the magnificent
Hunter Valley Gardens
The Hunter Valley, inland from
Newcastle in NSW, is a world
renowned wine growing area,
and its rich soils suit English and
European gardens. Most renowned
is the Hunter Valley gardens, located
near Polkobin. Large multi themed
gardens, known to many YAH
travellers come alive in a different
way each December celebrating the
Christmas season.
A most enjoyable “get away” from
pre Christmas busy-ness.
Maitland
Adelaide
$3,125
Brisbane
$2,925
Canberra
$3,125
Hobart/Launceston
$3,275
Melbourne
$2,925
Perth*
$3,580
Sydney
$2,675
Single supplement
$ 340
*Pre-tour Sydney.
to departure.
17
Christmas in Bowral
New South Wales
Bowral
Features
• Traditional Christmas Lunch
• Scenic Grand Pacific Drive
• Thirlmere Heritage Precinct • Belgenny Farm
• Amazing Illawarra Fly
• Jervis Bay Cruise
Craigieburn, one of Bowral’s early
mansions, which has been restored
and redeveloped as a Peppers
Resort, is perfect for celebrating
Christmas, and the Bowral area, with
its many beautiful English gardens,
is an excellent “mild weather”
Christmas location. The Southern
Highlands was an early settlement
following the establishment of
Sydney, much of its fascinating
history alive and available to the
public. A day journey to the nearby
coast offers many scenic delights,
plus an enjoyable calm water
dolphin cruise.
Illawarra Fly
Day 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS, GRAND
PACIFIC DRIVE, BOWRAL
Our relaxing Christmas getaway
begins as we fly into Sydney Airport.
We make our way south towards
Wollongong, travelling along a section
of Grand Pacific Drive including the
spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge. Continue
inland towards Bowral in the Southern
Highlands, our home for the next
five nights, Peppers Craigieburn, a
beautifully restored homestead.
Day 2 (B,L,D) THIRLMERE,
CAMDEN
Once a booming township of tents
housing the railway workers that
constructed the Great Southern Railway,
Thirlmere Station is now a heritage
precinct recounting the colonial history
from the 1860’s. We tour the station
and exhibits and see how the railways
brought life to NSW’s rural townships.
At nearby Camden we visit convict
built Belgenny Farm, famous home of
agricultural pioneers, Elizabeth and
John Macarthur.
Day 3 (B,L,D) ILLAWARRA FLY,
BRADMAN MUSEUM
This morning we travel to the Illawarra
Fly Treetop Walk, one of only a handful
of elevated treetop walks in the world.
The gentle walk above the rainforest
canopy offers stunning views out to the
Pacific Ocean. A natural highlight! We
return to Bowral to browse the quaint
boutiques shops and galleries. At the
Bradman Museum and Cricket Hall of
Fame we learn of the “Don’s” early years
in Bowral.
Peppers Craigieburn
Dolphin watch cruise
4
Day 4 (B,L,D) CHRISTMAS DAY
MERRY CHRISTMAS! After a relaxing breakfast
and the opportunity to attend church services,
if you wish, we visit Corbett Gardens, a floral
centrepiece of Bowral since 1911. Later we
celebrate with a traditional Christmas lunch,
with all the trimmings! This afternoon you may
wish to relax at the hotel or join us for a drive
to the Georgian village of Berrima. A lighter
dinner concludes today’s festivities.
Day 5 (B,L,D) JERVIS BAY, DOLPHIN
WATCH CRUISE
The Shoalhaven region is a scenic stretch
of coastline scattered with pristine beaches,
picturesque bays and quaint country towns. A
focal point of the region is Jervis Bay, a marine
park teeming with wildlife. We take a dolphin
watch cruise along the calm waters here
(sightings likely but not guaranteed). Following
our cruise we visit the Jervis Bay Maritime
Museum before returning to our hotel.
Day 6 (B,L) WOLLONGONG, SYDNEY,
HOME PORTS
Following breakfast we retrace our steps to
Sydney along Grand Pacific Drive. Enjoy a
morning cuppa in the Wollongong Botanic
Gardens. We transfer to Sydney
Airport, boarding our home
bound flights with fond
memories of a delightful
Christmas holiday in the
charming town of Bowral.
Adelaide
$3,745
Brisbane
$3,595
Canberra
$3,595
Hobart/Launceston
$3,745
Melbourne
$3,595
Perth
$4,215
Sydney
$3,245
Single supplement
$ 445
to departure.
18
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Christmas in the Yarra Valley
Yarra Valley
Victoria
Features
Day 1 (L,D) MELBOURNE,
COOMBE COTTAGE, YARRA
VALLEY
Day 3 (B,L,D) CHRISTMAS DAY! YARRA
RANGES NATIONAL PARK
This morning our Christmas break to the
picturesque Yarra Valley begins with a visit
to the charming Coombe Cottage, home
of Dame Nellie Melba, the first Australian
to achieve international recognition as a
classical musician. Coombe Cottage was
built in 1912 and today is still beautifully
preserved. We tour the stunning gardens
prior to a delightful lunch in the Melba
Estate Restaurant. Later we settle in to our
home for three nights, the luxurious Yarra
Valley Lodge.
DAY 2 (B,L,D) DANDENONG RANGES,
PUFFING BILLY STEAM TRAIN
This morning we make our way to the
picturesque Dandenong Ranges where
we visit Grants Picnic Ground, a scenic
park located within Sherbrook Forest. At
nearby Belgrave we board the century
old, Puffing Billy Steam Train and enjoy
a light meal as we travel in one of the
wonderfully restored dining carriages.
At Emerald Lakeside Station we stop
with time to take a stroll and enjoy the
abundant birdlife at the lake. We return to
our hotel by coach.
MERRY CHRISTMAS! We spend a relaxing
morning, with time to attend church
services, if you wish. Celebrate with new
found friends as we enjoy a traditional
Christmas Lunch, all the trimmings and
no dishes! During the afternoon we
take a leisurely drive to the Yarra Ranges
National Park, visiting the Rainforest
Gallery, an observation platform taking
you into the rainforest canopy. A lighter
dinner completes our celebrations today.
Day 4 (B,L) HEALESVILLE, YARRA
GLEN, MELBOURNE
A pleasant journey to Healesville where
we visit the Big Bouquet, a state-ofthe-art gerbera and alpaca farm, where
60,000 gerberas are grown in a massive
glasshouse. Morning tea and a guided
tour here. We continue to Yarra Glen
and Alowyn Gardens. Set on four acres,
Alowyn Gardens has a perennial border,
parterre garden, edible garden and a
sunken garden with a classic fountain. A
garden tour and farewell lunch before
returning to Melbourne completing our
most enjoyable Christmas getaway.
• Traditional Christmas Lunch
• Coombe Cottage at Melba Estate
• Puffing Billy Steam Train
• Yarra Ranges National Park
• Alowyn Gardens
4 day celebration featuring a
traditional Christmas Luncheon
with all the trimmings! Celebrate
Christmas in the company of other
friendly “Young at Hearters” only a
short distance from Melbourne in
the Dandenongs, Warburton Ranges
and Yarra Valley area at the luxurious
Yarra Valley Lodge, originally
developed as part of the Heritage
Club golf precinct some years ago.
An easy pace short break including
some favourite destinations – Melba
Cottage and Alowyn Gardens.
Yarra Valley Lodge
Puffing Billy Steam Train
Adelaide*
$2,810
Brisbane*
$2,880
Canberra*
$2,880
Hobart/Launceston*
$2,710
Melbourne
$2,255
Perth*
$3,210
Sydney*
$2,780
Single supplement
$ 275
*Pre-tour Melbourne.
to departure.
Yarra Ranges National Park
19
New South Wales
Blue
Mountains
Features
• The Majestic Blue Mountains
• Govett’s Leap
KATOOMBA
• Magnificent Jenolan Caves
Flights today take us the harbour city of
Sydney. On arrival we journey into the scenic
Blue Mountains and Katoomba. Our home
for five nights is the elegantly restored
Carrington Hotel.
• New Years Eve celebrations in Katoomba
DAY 2 (B,L,D) THREE SISTERS, SCENIC
WORLD, KATOOMBA
• Three Sisters Lookout, Echo Point
• Everglade House & Gardens
Welcome in the New Year at
the historic Carrington Hotel
in Katoomba, a beautifully
decorated hotel with the
elegance of a bygone era. We
stay in the Colonial Rooms,
all with walk in showers and
lift access. During our 6 day
holiday we explore the myriad
of scenic outlooks, natural
attractions and quaint villages
of the Blue Mountains.
Jenolan Caves
12
DAY 4 (B,L,D) NEW YEARS DAY LEURA VILLAGE, EVERGLADES
HOUSE
HAPPY NEW YEAR! A later start as we
visit the charming Blue Mountains village
of Leura. Browsing time is essential here!
Following lunch we visit Everglades Historic
House and Garden, one of Australia’s
foremost heritage properties.
Stunning scenery today as we visit Three
Sisters Lookout and then Scenic World.
Home to the Scenic Railway, Gondola and
Skyway all offer magnificent views and a
unique experience. Choose the ride to
suit you, or if you like, try all of the rides!
We also visit the interesting NSW Toy and
Railway Museum at the historic Leuralla
House. Time this afternoon to explore the
quaint village of Katoomba.
DAY 5 (B,L,D) JENOLAN CAVES
DAY 3 (B,L,D) NEW YEARS EVE GOVETT’S LEAP, BLACKHEATH,
WORLD HERITAGE EXHIBITION
Following a relaxing breakfast, we make our
way across the mountains and down the
escarpment to Sydney Airport. We board
homebound flights completing our special
New Year holiday in the majestic Blue
Mountains.
We enjoy the short scenic drive to Govett’s
Leap at Blackheath, one of Australia’s most
famous lookouts for superb unrivalled views.
We visit the Victory Theatre Antique Centre,
located in a former Art Deco movie theatre.
Following lunch we visit the World Heritage
Exhibition at the Blue Mountains Cultural
Centre. We return mid afternoon to relax at
our hotel before preparing for our night of
fun and celebration at the Carrington Hotel
to welcome in the New Year!
We travel through the mountains to visit
one of the world’s most spectacular cave
formations, Jenolan Caves which are at a
constant 15 degrees year round. Enjoy a
tour in one of the many show caves, each
have great beauty and unique features.
Lunch in this magnificent setting before
returning to Katoomba.
DAY 6 (B,L) SYDNEY, HOME PORTS
Everglade Gardens
Govett’s Leap
Three Sisters
13
Carrington Hotel
Adelaide
$3,695
Brisbane
$3,545
Canberra
$3,545
Hobart/Launceston
$3,695
Melbourne
$3,545
Perth*
$4,165
Sydney
$3,195
Single supplement
$ 575
*Pre-tour Sydney
to departure.
20
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
NORFOLK ISLAND
FLY DIRECT FROM MELBOURNE
Options:
Ultimate Norfolk Island - Easy pace, gourmet dining, magnificent scenery
Flight only or Fly Drive Holidays also available
Full details in separate Norfolk Island brochure
21
Burnt Pine township
Captain Cook
Memorial
8 days, departs Apr 4, 25, May 2, 9, 16, 23,
Sep 19, 26, Oct 3, 10, 17, 24, 31, Nov 7, 14, 21, 28, Dec 5
EASY PACE, SMALL
GROUP,
ALL INCLUSIVE
HOLIDAY!
For eight relaxing, full of interest
fun filled days we become
part of the life of this tiny
island, exploring its coastline,
the wretched convict era,
beautiful colonial buildings
and museums, early culture,
agricultural pursuits and
enjoying the gourmet food for
which the island’s restaurants
have become renowned.
Bounty
Lodge
Norfolk Island
National Park
Visit one of the last original settler’s
property, experience the history and
culture of the Pitcairn settlers, enjoy the
magnificent homestead garden, ride in
Norfolk’s first tourist coach!
22
Governor’s
Lodge
Sth Pacific
Resort
Norfolk
Island
Airport
Steele’s Point
St. Barnabas
Chapel
Crest
Apartments
Kingston
Cemetery Bay
Accommodation
Dining
GOVERNOR’S LODGE
RESORT HOTEL
All meals are included. Most lunches, dinners
and special events include soft drinks, beer or
glass of wine. Enjoy many outstanding Norfolk
gourmet experiences as we dine at a selection
of the host venues.
Enjoy 7 nights at Governor’s Lodge in
individual one bedroom lodges, on twelve
acres of landscaped sub tropical gardens
featuring majestic Norfolk pines, bananas,
hibiscus and a host of flowers and shrubs
- offering tranquillity and privacy.
Pitcairn Village tour
Cascade Bay
Mt Pitt
Aloha
Apartments
Each lodge has separate bedroom (king
double/twin beds), lounge (television),
dining & kitchenette, tea/coffee making,
separate bathroom (walk-in shower,
hairdryer), front verandah (with chairs
and table). Fully serviced daily, telephone
(International direct dial) and internet
access available.
Gourmet restaurants
•
Hilli’s
•
Baileys
•
La Perouse
•
The Rock
•
Norfolk Blue
•
Mariah’s
•
Dino’s
Heated spa and pool, coffee shop and
reception, breakfast room, Baileys restaurant
and bar, use of adjacent tennis courts.
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
SPECIALTY DINING EVENTS
•
Bush walk barbecue breakfast
•
Island fish fry
•
Progressive dinner
Lunch locations are selected from a
variety of island venues.
Day 1 Mon (B,L,D)
Day 4 Thu (B,L,D)
Transfer from metropolitan home/hotel
to Melbourne airport (international
departures) for our charter flight to Norfolk
Island, cooked breakfast and morning
refreshments as we fly. Welcome to the
beautiful “speck in the ocean” Norfolk
Island! Your tour director will greet you at
Norfolk airport and we transfer to Rumours
Café for a light luncheon. A taste of
Norfolk with a brief introductory scenic tour
prior to arriving at Governors Lodge Resort
Hotel, home for 7 nights. Time to settle
in and relax. Later in the afternoon your
tour director will be available to discuss any
addtional activities in which you may be
are interested (these are at own expense).
Dinner at Baileys Restaurant in Governors
Lodge completes our day.
Learn of the island’s food production on the
Farm and Industry tour. Lunch at Hilli award
winning restaurant and cooking school,
adjacent to Gallery Guava, which displays
work by Norfolk’s leading artists. Enjoy a
stroll through the National Park, browse
in the local shops at Burnt Pine, enjoy an
optional activity or relax at the resort. A
highlight dinner tonight as we enjoy a 4
course progressive dinner in islander homes.
Enjoy the friendly atmosphere, local food
and our own good company. A night to
remember!
Day 2 Tue (B,L,D)
This morning we experience some of
Norfolk’s colourful early development as we
visit an original Pitcairn settler’s property,
and learn of Pitcairn history and culture,
ride in Norfolk’s first “tourist coach”. “Lunch
with the locals” at a local café, which is
followed by Christian Brothers Cheese Tour,
a boutique dairy and cheese company
started by John and Glen Christian. Hear
about honey producing, visit the local
sawmill as well as sampling a range of local
cheeses and a glass wine on the veranda of
Glen’s house. Cheesemaker John will inform
us of their vision in this newer venture.
Dinner tonight at a well known local “reef
and beef’ restaurant, The Rock.
Day 5 Fri (B,L,D)
A treat this morning as we clip clop down
memory lane at the pace of yesteryear with
Culla’s beautiful Clydesdales through private
property at Steele’s Point. Lunch at the
Norfolk Island Golf Club. An opportunity
to explore Kingston museums or enjoy
some free time prior to dinner at Mariah’s
at Heritage, where we are entertained by a
most enjoyable Norfolk Culture Show.
Cyclorama
Day 6 Sat (B,L,D)
For early risers, a delightful bush walk
followed by BBQ cliff top breakfast. Coach
transfer to breakfast is also available. Free
time in Burnt Pine township and following
lunch at Governors Lodge a visit to the
beautiful Botanic Gardens. Dinner tonight
is at one of Norfolk’s finest restaurants,
“Norfolk Blue” located at 100 acre farm,
which produces its own breed of beef,
Norfolk Blue.
Trial of 15 (play)
Day 7 Sun (B,L,D)
Day 3 Wed (B,L,D)
Today enjoy a visit to Kingston, with its
convict era buildings. View Norfolk Island
coral and a variety of native fish which live
in the calm waters inside the reef by glass
bottom boat. Lunch at Dino’s at Bombora,
once an islander home set in a relaxing
garden setting, now an excellent restaurant.
An afternoon visit to the beautiful St
Barnabas Church, built as part of the large
Melanesian Mission, which was based on
Norfolk Island from 1867 until 1920 and
included a school, printery and farm. For
many years over 150 persons were involved
at any one time and the Mission was an
important part of island life. Some free time
prior to the Trial of Fifteen play prior to
viewing the beautiful Norfolk cliff top sunset
while enjoying the famous island “fish fry”
at Puppy’s Point, an island traditional feast
of fish, salads and dessert.
Culla’s Clydesdales
You may wish to attend church at St
Barnabas prior to a stroll through the local
craft market. Today we enjoy an outdoor
Sunday picnic lunch (subject to weather)
and during the afternoon visit Kingston, with
its convict era buildings, several museums
and the Norfolk cemetery, full of fascinating
characters! Dinner tonight at La Perouse.
Day 8 Mon (B,L)
This morning we visit Fletcher’s Mutiny
Cyclorama, a circular panoramic painting.
Visitors are surrounded on all sides by the
immense detailed artwork and realistic
perspective which creates an incredible
illusion of reality. Lunch prior to transferring
to the airport for our return journey.
Refreshments and drinks as we fly. From
Melbourne home/hotel or airport transfers
completes a most enjoyable Norfolk holiday.
Kingston Convict Settlement
Adelaide
$4,385
Country VIC*
$4,065
Canberra
$4,385
Hobart/Launceston*
$4,285
Melbourne
$3,965
Perth*
$4,785
Single supplement
$ 385
*Pre-tour night in Melbourne including dinner.
Deposit of $500 per person due within 7 days
of booking.
Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
23
BRISBANE
Lord Howe Island
ADELAIDE
PERTH
SYDNEY
LORD HOWE
ISLAND
MELBOURNE
FLY WITH QANTAS LINK FROM SYDNEY TO LORD HOWE ISLAND
PINETREES RESORT LORD HOWE ISLAND
On arrival at Lord Howe Island
we transfer to the award winning
Pinetrees Resort, located close to the
beach on Lord Howe Lagoon.
INCLUDED IN OUR STAY:
• Accommodation in Palm, Transit Hill or Under the Pines room
Pinetrees Palm Room
Transit Hill Room
• Full breakfast (hot options plus buffet)
• Lunch (either at Pinetrees or picnic hamper)
• Afternoon teas
• 4 or 5 course dinners
• Use of all lodge facilities (tennis court, library, billiard room, boatshed)
• 20% discount on spa treatment
• Sunset drinks (soft drinks, glass of beer/wine with dinner)
INCLUDED TOURS AND ACTIVITIES:
Visit to museum
Lord Howe Island environmental tour
Glass bottom boat coral and reef fish tour
Fish feeding
Visit to scenic coastal areas
Relaxing pace suitable level
accompanied weeks
All prices are
per person twin share
PALM ROOM
Adelaide
4 day
$4,685
5 day
$5,175
Brisbane
Canberra
Hobart/Laun*
Melbourne
Perth*
Sydney
Single supp
Deposit
$4,455
$4,685
$4,835
$4,455
$5,335
$4,125
$ 475
$ 450
$4,945
$5,175
$5,325
$4,945
$5,825
$4,615
$ 635
$ 500
TRANSIT HILL ROOM
4 days add $180ppts | $ 75ss
5 days add $240ppts | $100ss
UNDER THE PINES ROOM
Deposit due within 7 days of booking, plus any
additional deposit needed for non-refundable
airfares. Balance due 90 days prior to departure.
24
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
OVERSEAS HOLIDAYS
QUEENSTOWN, NEW ZEALAND
25
Fiji – Escape to Paradise Cruise
10 days, departs Oct 20
Day 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS, NADI,
PORT DENARAU
Features
Our adventure begins as we fly to Nadi on
Viti Levu, gateway to Fiji and her islands.
On arrival we transfer to the Port Denarau
Marina and our hotel, The Terraces
Apartment Resort. Some time to relax at
the resort before dinner.
• Fully escorted from Melbourne
• Fiji Princess boutique cruise ship
• 7 nights cruising the beautiful Yasawa Islands
• The stunningly remote Sacred Islands
Day 2 (B,L,D) MODRIKI ISLAND
A leisurely morning to explore the
Marina before we board the Fiji Princess,
departing for the Yasawa Islands. The first
overnight anchorage is in a gorgeous
secluded location at Modriki Island.
Drinks and nibbles as we enjoy the sunset
followed by the Captain’s Welcome dinner,
entertainment provided by the talented
crew!
• Fijian Villages
• Delicious traditional Fiji and International cuisine
• “Meke” performances of traditional son and dance
This ultimate Fiji Islands cruising
experience is fully escorted by a Young
at Heart representative who will look
after you every step of the way. Blue
Lagoon’s Fiji Princess boutique cruise
ship has a capacity of just 68 guests.
Its smaller size allows exploration of
tranquil bays and islands impossible
to reach in a larger ship and the ship
is often anchored so close to shore it
is tied to a coconut tree! The itinerary
is relaxing, you will adapt to “Fiji” time
easily! Join as much or as little as you
wish. The air conditioned cabins well
appointed have private ensuite and
walk in showers and large external
windows with magnificent ocean
views. All levels are easily accessible
(some areas do require stair access).
All meals are included and offer a
variety of traditional Fijian meals and
international cuisines.
Day 3 (B,L,D) SOSO BAY
There is time to step ashore and enjoy a
swim or wander along the beach in the
morning. After lunch we visit the chiefly
village of Soso - an exceptional example
of a current day Fijian island village. Enjoy
a traditional Thali dinner which features
exquisite Indian dishes.
Day 4 (B,L,D) NAUKACUVU ISLAND
“Meke” performances
Sunday is a day of rest in Fiji. After
breakfast there is a special opportunity to
attend a village church service. We cruise
south to the beautiful Naukacuvu and
Narara Islands as you enjoy a traditional
Sunday roast lunch. This afternoon if you
wish, join a Fijian cooking lesson with
the Chef. Dinner is a range of Fijian and
European dishes. Bingo ‘Fiji style’ is offered
after dinner.
Day 5 (B,L,D) SACRED ISLANDS
We wind our way between the reefs into
the central lagoon, surrounded by The
Sacred Islands (Vanua Levu and Navadra
Island). The scenery is breathtaking. Spend
the remainder of the day relaxing. Fiji style
high tea (dinner) is served following a
cooking lesson on how to make ‘Roti in
Lolo’.
Blue Lagoon Staff
26
Blue Lagoon Cruise
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Fiji – Escape to Paradise Cruise
Day 6 (B,L,D) BLUE LAGOON
Day 8 (B,L,D) DRAWAQA ISLAND
Our destination is the famed Blue Lagoon.
This superb stretch of water is ringed by
islands and on one of those islands is Blue
Lagoon Cruises very own private island
peninsula. Check out the stunning azure
water. Watch as the crew position the
vessel right up to the beach and tie her off
to the coconut trees! A very special night
enjoying a traditional Lovo meal cooked
underground. Dine on the beach under
the coconut palms and the tropical stars.
The evening will continue with Fijian meke,
singing, dancing and storytelling by local
villagers.
Cruise to Drawaqa Island where our Marine
Biologist joins us for a presentation about
the local marine life and the volunteer
conservation work carried out in the area.
You have the opportunity to snorkel with
the magnificent manta rays, if you wish.
Alternatively visit the local island school to
view the work of the Vinaka Fiji Volunteers.
Dinner this evening is a barbecue served
under the stars!
Day 7 (B,L,D) SAWA-I-LAU ISLAND
Join an easy guided island walk with
panoramic views and visit to an island style
cake shop. Time to browse the shell market,
perhaps try your hand at basket weaving.
Lunch is served on board as we cruise north
into the amazing Sawa-i-Lau caves. The
village of Tamasua welcomes us to a Yaqona
ceremony, tour and a village style “feast”
prepared and cooked by the local women.
Day 9 (B,L,D) PORT DENARAU
Sawa-i-Lau Caves
Enjoy breakfast as we cruise back toward
Port Denarau. Along the way you will be
serenaded with a traditional Isa Lei farewell
song by the crew, as our exploration of
these gorgeous islands comes to an end.
We return to The Terraces Apartment
Resort and enjoy our final night together in
beautiful Fiji.
Day 10 (B,L) PORT DENARAU, HOME
PORTS
Departing our hotel we enjoy an early lunch
at the Marina prior to returning to Nadi
Airport for our flights home completing a
magical holiday to one of the South Pacific’s
most beautiful locations.
Blue Lagoon staff
Underground cooked Lovo meal
Blue Lagoon Cruise
Adelaide*
$5,540
Brisbane
$5,285
Canberra
$5,385
Hobart/Launceston*
$5,540
Melbourne
$5,185
Perth*
$6,195
Sydney
$5,185
Single supplement
$ 325
*Pre and post tour Melbourne.
to departure.
Modriki Island
27
New Zealand
Wellington
Christchurch
Features
• Wellington Cable Car
• Zealandia Sanctuary
• Museum of New Zealand
• Akaroa Harbour Cruise
• Christchurch Gondola
• International Antarctic Centre
Join Young at Heart on this fully
escorted, easy paced week long
holiday combining two of New
Zealand’s most popular city
destinations. This holiday visits
both the North and South Islands.
Wellington Cable Car
WELLINGTON
Day 5 (B,L,D) AKAROA HARBOUR
CRUISE
Our week long adventure begins on
arrival into the compact waterfront city of
Wellington, New Zealand’s capital. On arrival
we transfer to our home for the next three
nights, the Amora Hotel.
Ninety minutes from Christchurch is the
French inspired village of Akaroa, and our
departure point for the Akaroa Harbour
Nature Cruise. Voted the number one
wildlife activity in New Zealand, we will
cruise around an extinct volcano crater on
our quest to view the rare Hector’s Dolphins
as well as New Zealand Fur Seals and White
Flippered Blue Penguins.
Day 2 (B,L,D) WELLINGTON,
ZEALANDIA
A leisurely morning exploring Wellington,
with a city sights tour before we board the
historic Wellington Cable Car for a short trip
aboard New Zealand’s only funicular railway.
We also visit the Cable Car Museum and
Botanic Gardens. Following lunch we visit
the Zealandia Wildlife Sanctuary.
Day 3 (B,L,D) MUSEUM OF NEW
ZEALAND, KAPITI COAST
This morning we tour the Museum of New
Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, the national
museum and art gallery. Ample time to
view the many fascinating galleries and
exhibitions. During the afternoon we take
a scenic drive north of Wellington to the
ruggedly beautiful Kapiti Coast.
Day 4 (B,L,D) WELLINGTON,
CHRISTCHURCH
We return to Wellington Airport for a short,
50 minute flight to Christchurch on the edge
of the South Island’s Canterbury Plains.
Lunch on arrival. This afternoon we tour the
city on board a beautifully restored heritage
tram prior to a stroll through the historic
Botanic Gardens. Our home for three nights
is the Rendezvous Hotel.
Akaroa Harbour Cruise
International Antarctic Centre
Day 6 (B,L,D) CHRISTCHURCH
GONDOLA, CANTERBURY, METHVEN
This morning we board the Christchurch
Gondola for a scenic “flight” to the top
of Mount Cavendish. The views over the
cityscape and the Canterbury Plains are
breathtaking. We then venture into the
Canterbury Region, arriving at Ashburton
in time for lunch and a visit to the award
winning Trotts Gardens. We continue to the
resort township of Methven, in the foothills
of Mt Hutt. Time to explore here before
returning to Christchurch.
Day 7 (B,L) INTERNATIONAL
ANTARCTIC CENTRE, HOME PORTS
Returning to Christchurch Airport we enjoy
an Antarctic adventure at the International
Antarctic Centre, located opposite the main
terminal. Following lunch it’s time to board
our homebound flights concluding our
enjoyable twin New Zealand city holiday.
This tour is combinable with our
Bay Of Islands Holiday holiday
commencing Nov 21
Adelaide
$5,025
Brisbane
$4,925
Canberra
$5,025
Hobart/Launceston
$5,025
Melbourne
$4,925
Perth
$5,580
Sydney*
$4,925
Single supplement
$ 690
*Pre-tour Melbourne
to departure.
28
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Bay of Islands
Auckland
New Zealand
Features
Day 1 (L,D) MELBOURNE, AUCKLAND,
BAY OF ISLANDS
Our week long adventure begins with direct
flight to Auckland, connecting with a short
onward flight to the beautiful Bay of Islands.
Transfer to our home for the next five nights,
Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands in the seaside
township of Paihia.
Day 2 (B,L,D) PAIHIA, KERIKERI,
RUSSELL
Today we explore the nearby historic towns of
Kerikeri and Russell. We begin with a parrot
safari at The Parrot Place. At Kerikeri Mission
we view the two oldest surviving buildings
in New Zealand, pay a visit to Makana
Chocolate Factory and view the spectacular
Rainbow Falls (short, easy walk). This
afternoon we travel by ferry to Russell and
spend some time browsing the waterfront,
shops and craft galleries.
Day 3 (B,L,D) CAPE REINGA, 90 MILE
BEACH, PUKETI KAURI FOREST
A highlight today as we travel to New
Zealand’s northerly western most tip, Cape
Reinga, where the Tasman Sea meets the
Pacific Ocean. Other highlights of the day
include a visit to Puketi Kauri Forest and an
off road adventure along the sand dunes
at Ninety Mile beach. A day to remember!
(Please note that we join a public tour today.)
Day 4 (B,L,D) KERIKERI, WAIPOUA
FOREST, TANE MAHUTA
Day 5 (B,L,D) WAITANGI TREATY
GROUNDS, HOLE IN THE ROCK
CRUISE
Spend the morning at New Zealand’s most
important historic site, Waitangi Treaty
Grounds, where Maori Chiefs first signed
their accord with the British Crown. This
afternoon we cruise the Bay of Islands,
passing through the majestic Hole in the
Rock. A wonderful day.
Day 6 (B,L,D) BAY OF ISLANDS,
WHANGAREI, AUCKLAND
This morning we depart Paihia and journey
south to Whangarei where we visit Kiwi
North a unique attraction combining Kiwi
House & Whangarei Museum. View the
elusive kiwi bird in its natural environment.
Some time to browse the shops at Town
Basin Marina Village before we continue
towards Auckland. Following dinner we visit
the Auckland Sky Tower which offers scenic
views of the city and harbour lights.
Day 7 (B,L) AUCKLAND, MELBOURNE
• Hole in the Rock Cruise
• Cape Reinga
• Hokianga
• Waitangi Treaty Grounds
• Kerikeri and Russell
• Auckland Museum
• Auckland Sky Tower
Known for its stunning natural
beauty, the Bay of Islands
encompasses 144 islands and
several historically significant
townships and villages. It is also
a perfect base to explore the
Northland region.
Enjoy five nights at the Scenic Hotel
Bay of Islands, Paihia. Our final
night is spent in central Auckland,
allowing some time to explore the
city prior to our flight home.
Following a leisurely breakfast we take a
scenic tour of Auckland including a short
cruise across the harbour on the Devonport
Ferry. Enjoy an early farewell lunch prior to
making our way to Auckland Airport. Our
memories of a wonderful New Zealand
holiday will be long remembered.
Hole in the Rock Cruise
A later start today as we return to Kerikeri
and have time to browse the shops and
galleries. After lunch we travel to Hokianga,
an area steeped in history and offering many
natural highlights. At Waipoua Kauri Forest
we view the mighty Tane Mahuta (the Lord of
the Forest), the largest known kauri tree in the
world. Some free time on return to Paihia.
Scenic Hotel Bay of Islands
Adelaide*
$5,620
Brisbane
$4,975
Canberra*
$5,620
Hobart/Launceston*
$5,510
Melbourne
$4,975
Perth*
$5,810
Sydney
$4,975
Single supplement
$ 425
to departure.
Paihia
Puketi Kauri Forest
29
Queenstown Holiday
New Zealand
Queenstown
Features
• Kiwi Birdlife Park
• Skyline Gondola
• Arrowtown and Lakes District
• Majestic Fiordland and
Doubtful Sound Cruise
• TSS Earnslaw Cruise and
Walter Peak Farm
• Beautiful Lake Wanaka
Join Young at Heart on this fully
escorted easy-paced holiday to
picturesque Queenstown, located on
New Zealand’s South Island. Flying
direct from Melbourne with Air New
Zealand, a short three hours across
the Tasman. Situated on magical Lake
Wakatipu and nestled by stunning
mountains, this eight day stayput
holiday allows you time to soak up the
beautiful scenery and enjoy relaxed
local touring of magnificent lakes and
alpine areas.
Copthorne Hotel Queenstown Lakeview
QUEENSTOWN
Day 5 (B,L,D) FIORDLAND NATIONAL
PARK, DOUBTFUL SOUND CRUISE
We join direct flights from Melbourne to
Queenstown. On arrival we transfer to our
home for seven nights, the Copthorne Hotel
Queenstown Lakeview. Time to settle in
prior to dinner together at the hotel.
A highlight today as we travel into the
untouched wilderness of the Fiordland
National Park to Manapouri. On arrival
we board the Patea Explorer, a modern
catamaran which takes us into the vast and
beautiful Doubtful Sound. An unforgettable
experience.
Day 2 (B,L,D) QUEENSTOWN, KIWI
BIRDLIFE PARK, BOB’S PEAK AND
SKYLINE GONDOLA
Enjoy a local tour of Queenstown followed
by a visit to the interesting Kiwi Birdlife
Park, view the daily feeding of these elusive
animals. Take the Gondola up to Bob’s Peak,
enjoy a traditional Maori Haka and dine in
the Skyline Restaurant whilst enjoying the
sensational views.
Day 3 (B,L,D) LAKE WAKATIPU CRUISE,
WALTER PEAK HIGH COUNTRY FARM
A later start with the short journey to
Steamer Wharf where we board the TSS
Earnslaw for a scenic cruise across Lake
Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country
Farm. Enjoy a guided tour of the farm prior
to a BBQ lunch. Our return cruise arrives in
Queenstown late afternoon.
Day 4 (B,L,D) ARROWTOWN, LAKES
DISTRICT MUSEUM, ARTHURS POINT
Explore nearby Arrowtown, a delightful
gold rush village with a rich history and
picturesque setting. Visit the Lakes District
Museum. On our return to Queenstown we
stop at Arthurs Point to view the rugged
Shotover River.
Doubtful Sound Cruise
Day 6 (B,L,D) LAKE WANAKA,
CROMWELL
We take a leisurely drive through the Gibbston
Valley and past the Crown Range then visit
the township of Wanaka. We explore both the
village and the unique Warbirds and Wheels
museum, lunch here in the village. Later we
stop for afternoon tea at the old Cromwell
Heritage Precinct.
Day 7 (B,L,D) QUEENSTOWN MARKET,
MILLION DOLLAR CRUISE, BOTANIC
GARDENS
We take the opportunity to visit the weekly
Queenstown Market, held beside the lake in
Earnslaw Park prior to boarding our Million
Dollar Cruise that travels to the very end of
Lake Wakatipu. Following lunch take a stroll
through the Queenstown Botanic Gardens,
if you wish.
Day 8 (B,L) QUEENSTOWN,
MELBOURNE
Following breakfast we take a scenic drive
along the lake to Glenorchy, returning to
Queenstown in time to enjoy a farewell
lunch together. We return to Queenstown
airport for our afternoon flight direct to
Melbourne.
Queenstown
Adelaide*
$5,690
Brisbane*
$5,690
Canberra*
$5,790
Hobart/Launceston*
$5,590
Melbourne
$5,175
Perth*
$6,090
Sydney*
$5,590
Single supplement
$ 695
to departure.
30
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
VICTORIA
STEAVENSON FALLS, MARYSVILLE
31
Marysville - in the Mystic Mountains
Victoria
5 days, departs Apr 18, Nov 14, 28
Marysville
Features
• Coombe Cottage and Gardens
• Steavenson Falls
• Alexandra Timber Tramway
• Brunos Sculptures
• Scenic Lake Mountain
• Biq Bouquet Gerbera Farm
• Alowyn Gardens
From the 1930’s Marysville was,
along with Lorne and Warburton,
famous as a honeymoon
destination, with couples returning
to enjoy this mountain destination
as a family holiday destination.
This plus the timber industry
made for a prosperous mountain
community. Both the guest
house era and the timber industry
past, and the devastating recent
bush fires changed the village
forever. The recovery is amazing,
and today this mountain village
welcomes us to enjoy another
mountain holiday.
Biq Bouquet Gerbera Farm
DAY 1 (L,D) MELBOURNE, COOMBE
COTTAGE, MARYSVILLE
Our short break to the picturesque
township of Marysville begins with a visit
to the charming Coombe Cottage, home
of Dame Nellie Melba, the first Australian
to achieve international recognition as a
classical musician. Coombe Cottage was
built in 1912 and today is still beautifully
preserved. We tour the stunning gardens
prior to a delightful lunch in the Melba
Estate Restaurant. Later we travel along
the Black Spur to Marysville. Our home for
four nights is the contemporary Vibe Hotel
Marysville.
DAY 2 (B,L,D) MARYSVILLE
Day 5 (B,L) HEALESVILLE, YARRA
GLEN, MELBOURNE
This morning we stop in the quaint town of
Healesville where we visit the Big Bouquet,
a state-of-the-art gerbera and alpaca
farm, where 60,000 gerberas are grown
in a massive glasshouse. Morning tea and
a guided tour here. We continue to Yarra
Glen and Alowyn Gardens. Set on four
acres, Alowyn Gardens has a perennial
border, parterre garden, edible garden and
a sunken garden with a classic fountain.
A garden tour and lunch here before
returning to Melbourne mid afternoon
completing a most enjoyable short break in
the rejuvenated town of Marysville.
A relaxing day exploring this reborn village,
from unbelievable bush fire damage and
tragedy, the area is thriving once again.
Nature has helped and the re-growth is
simply amazing. We tour the area with a
local guide and visit the Tourist Information
Centre and fascinating Marysville District
Historical Society. During the day we
also enjoy an easy level track walk to the
awe-inspiring Steavensons Falls, one of
Victoria’s highest waterfalls.
DAY 3 (B,L,D) ALEXANDRA, EILDON
We travel to the regional centre of
Alexandra, centre of a large farming
district, morning cuppa and a stroll around
town prior to visiting the Alexandra Timber
Tramway Museum. It is a short journey
to Eildon, home to a large houseboat
fleet. When full, the man made lake holds
six times the amount of water as Sydney
Harbour. View the spillway as we cross the
huge retaining wall and enjoy stunning
extensive views of the lake from nearby
Mt Pinniger. Dinner tonight at nearby
Narbethong.
DAY 4 (B,L,D) BRUNOS SCUPLTURES,
CRYSTAL GARDENS, LAKE
MOUNTAIN
Steavenson Falls
32
A visit this morning to the unique artworks
of the sculptor and painter Bruno Torfs. A
collection of unforgettable hand crafted
characters displayed in a delightful
rainforest setting. We stop in at the Crystal
Gardens prior to a delicious lunch at the
Marysville Bakery. During the afternoon we
climb high into the Great Dividing Range
to the popular cross country skiing resort
of Lake Mountain. Spectacular views!
Brunos Sculptures
Adelaide*
$2,350
Brisbane*
$2,420
Canberra*
$2,420
Hobart/Launceston*
$2,250
Melbourne
$1,795
Perth*
$2,750
Sydney*
$2,320
Single supplement
$ 320
to departure.
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Gippsland Lakes
Victoria
6 days, departs Apr 17, Nov 27
Lakes Entrance
Day 4 (B,L,D) WYANGA PARK WINERY,
ORBOST
Day 1 (L,D) MELBOURNE, MAFFRA,
LAKES ENTRANCE
Our “Lakes” stayput commences as we
head east, stopping for a morning cuppa at
Drouin. We arrive at Maffra for lunch and
then time to view the Pino Deriu gemstone
and mineral collection in the restored Court
House. Mid-afternoon we arrive in Lakes
Entrance and our home for the next five
nights, the Bellevue on the Lakes.
We travel to Orbost where we visit the
tourist centre based in the historic Slab
Hut, built in 1872 and also the Snowy
River Opals. On the way back we take a
scenic drive past Lake Tyers. Our lunch
destination is the delightful Wyanga Park
Winery located on the north arm of The
Lakes.
Day 2 (B,L,D) BAIRNSDALE,
PAYNESVILLE, RAYMOND ISLAND
Day 5 (B,L,D) NYERIMILANG
HOMESTEAD, BUCHAN
This morning we drive to Bairnsdale,
situated on the Mitchell River which flows
into the extensive Gippsland Lakes system.
A morning cuppa before visiting The
Krowathunkooloong Cultural Museum
which details the history, heritage and
culture of the Koorie people of East
Gippsland. We travel onto the charming
village of Paynesville, surrounded by lakes
on three sides, with canals and inlets
providing plentiful sheltered moorings
for boats. Lunch at one of the delightful
waterfront cafes. We take the ferry to
Raymond Island across the McMillan Strait,
one of the best places in Victoria to spot
koalas.
Day 3 (B,L,D) METUNG, LAKES
CRUISE
This morning we travel to the picturebook
village of Metung, stretching along a narrow
sandy peninsula on the Gippsland Lakes,
stopping on the way at Brigadoon Walnut
Farm. Take a stroll along the boardwalk
before lunch. We return to Lakes Entrance’s
Post Office Jetty and board the Thunderbird
– a fully enclosed cruise boat. Enjoy a two
hour scenic cruise, spotting dolphins and
seals and other wildlife along the way.
We begin the day with a visit to the lovely
Nyerimilang Homestead built in 1884, enjoy
a morning cuppa in the gardens of this
picturesque setting. We then head north
along the Great Alpine Road to Bruthen
on the Tambo River, for lunch surrounded
by temperate rainforest. In the afternoon
we continue to Buchan, famous for its
underground limestone caves. Time here to
explore the area.
Day 6 (B,L) ROSEDALE, WARRAGUL,
MELBOURNE
Departing for home today we stop in the
quaint village of Rosedale for morning
tea. We continue to Warragul, take in
the 19th century architecture and visit the
heritage listed Warragul Station and Shire
Hall. Following our farewell lunch we return
to Melbourne, arriving mid-afternoon,
completing our relaxing Gippsland Lakes
holiday.
Features
• Picturesque Metung
• Scenic Lakes cruise • Raymond Island
• Krowathunkooloong Cultural Museum
• Wyanga Park Winery
• Nyerimilang Homestead
The Gippsland Lakes are a series
of lakes, marshes and lagoons
covering an area of 354 square
kilometres and is the largest
inland water system in Australia.
Amongst its diverse flora and
fauna, the lakes are home to 50 of
the recently discovered Burrunan
dolphins and 20,000 wetland birds
including birds from as far afield as
Siberia and Alaska. In this tour we
explore the beautiful waterways,
coastline and picturesque villages
of this magnificent part of Victoria
picturesque villages and enjoy the
warm and pleasant coastal climate
of this magnificent part of Victoria.
Bellevue on the Lakes
Metung
Adelaide*
$3,200
Brisbane*
$3,270
Canberra*
$3,270
Hobart/Launceston*
$3,100
Melbourne
$2,645
Perth*
$3,600
Sydney*
$3,170
Single supplement
$ 345
to departure.
Gippsland Lakes
33
Victoria’s North East and
the Bright Autumn Festival
Victoria
Milawa
Bright
5 days, departs Apr 26
Features
• Bright Autumn Festival
• Picturesque King Valley
• Beechworth Township
• Milawa Gourmet Region
• Beautiful Benalla Rose Garden
Lindenwarrah at Milawa, our home
for four nights, is a boutique
country house set amongst the
vineyards of the Milawa Wine
Region.
Rooms feature floor to ceiling
windows leading to a balcony or
terrace with either vineyard or
garden views.
All rooms have walk in showers.
Relax in the sunny courtyard
or one of the estate’s lounges
or perhaps stroll through the
gardens of Brown Brothers Winery,
adjacent to the hotel.
MANSFIELD, KING VALLEY, MILAWA
Day 4 (B,L,D) BRIGHT AUTUMN
FESTIVAL
This morning we travel through the
scenic Yarra Valley to Yea, for a morning
cuppa. We continue to Mansfield and
then Tolmie, taking in the views over the
King Valley at Powers Lookout. Travelling
through this emerging gourmet food
and wine region we arrive at the
charming town of Milawa. Time to settle
in to our home for the next four nights,
Lindenwarrah at Milawa.
We spend our day in the beautiful township
of Bright, renowned for its tree lined streets
and striking outlook. Each year the region
celebrates the spectacular autumn colours
and local produce at the Bright Autumn
Festival. There is time to explore the many
quaint shops and galleries or stroll along
Morse’s Creek. During the day we visit several
festival highlights including the Annual Art
Exhibition and an Open Garden visit.
Day 2 (B,L,D) MILAWA GOURMET
REGION, ELDORADO
Day 5 (B,L) BENALLA, KILMORE,
MELBOURNE
A leisurely morning as we visit three
of Milawa’s most well-known produce
stores, Milawa Cheese Factory, Milawa
Mustards and Walkabout Apiaries with
ample time to browse and enjoy some
tastings. Following lunch we take a
short, leisurely drive to the former gold
rush township of Eldorado, visiting the
interesting museum and viewing the
imposing former gold dredge.
Following a leisurely breakfast we journey
to Benalla home to the beautiful Benalla
Rose Garden on the shores of Lake Benalla
our stop for a morning cuppa. Time also to
visit the excellent Benalla Costume and Kelly
Museum displaying memorabilia of the area.
We continue to the historic town of Kilmore
for our farewell lunch before returning to
Melbourne, completing our enjoyable autumn
getaway.
Day 3 (B,L,D) BEECHWORTH
This morning we travel to the pretty
township of Yackandandah, prior to
arriving in Beechworth, scene of much
gold rush-created wealth, as evident in
the many fine colonial buildings. Some
time to browse and enjoy lunch before
taking a guided tour of this historic
township. We return to our hotel for a
relaxing afternoon at leisure.
Lindenwarrah at Milawa
Beechworth
5
Adelaide*
$2,900
Brisbane*
$2,970
Canberra*
$2,970
Hobart/Launceston*
$2,800
Melbourne
$2,345
Perth*
$3,300
Sydney*
$2,870
Single supplement
$ 360
to departure.
34
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
RACV Goldfields Creswick
Victoria
5 days, departs May 9, Nov 21
Creswick
Day 1 (L,D) MELBOURNE, BALLARAT,
CRESWICK
This morning we travel from Melbourne
and enjoy morning tea at the Big Apple
Tourist Orchard. We continue to Ballarat,
Victoria’s largest inland city. Lunch here
prior to viewing the exhibits at the Fine Art
Gallery. Later we arrive at the historic gold
mining town of Creswick and our home for
four nights, the RACV Goldfields Resort. Set
amongst 20 hectares of forest in the central
goldfields, there is time to unpack and relax
prior to dinner together at our resort.
Day 2 (B,L,D) BALLARAT
An easy day as we return to Ballarat, its
wealth dating back to the golden era of the
1860’s. Enjoy a stroll through the Robert
Clark Conservatory at the Botanic Gardens,
adjacent to Lake Wendouree. Lunch at
The Museum of Australian Democracy at
Eureka, located on the historic site of the
1854 Eureka Stockade. Time here to view
the fascinating displays of iconic objects,
exhibits and rare Australian Gold jewellery.
Day 3 (B,L,D) CASTLEMAINE,
GOLDFIELDS RAILWAY, MALDON,
HEPBURN SPRINGS
Day 4 (B,L,D) CRESWICK, CLUNES
Today we explore Creswick and the nearby
historic Clunes. We enjoy a guided tour and
morning tea at the Creswick Woollen Mills,
see the last remaining coloured spinning
mill of its type in Australia. We travel to
Clunes, famous as the place that sparked
the Victorian Gold Rush. Visit the Clunes
Museum and time to wander this small but
beautifully preserved town. Following lunch
here we travel back to Creswick with free
time at our resort.
Day 5 (B,L) BRINGALBIT GARDENS,
KYNETON, MELBOURNE
After a relaxing breakfast we depart for
Kyneton, named after Kineton in England
and known for its bluestone buildings. Here
we tour Bringalbit Gardens, an excellent
representation of Australia’s rural history.
Enjoy the delightful gardens, ornamental
lake, homestead and outbuildings prior to
lunch. Later we join the Calder Highway
which takes us back to Melbourne arriving
mid afternoon, completing a most pleasant
stayput holiday in beautiful central Victoria.
Goldfields Railway
We journey through gold country to historic
Castlemaine. Morning tea and guided tour
at Buda Historical Home. Late morning we
board the historic Goldfields Railway, an
authentic steam train, for the relaxing ride
to another of the goldfields historic towns,
Maldon. Lunch here and time to explore
this quaint township. We return to Creswick
via the charming town of Hepburn Springs,
where we stop for an afternoon cuppa.
Features
• Ballarat the Gold Rush town
• Buda Historic Home and Garden
• Goldfields Railway
• Delightful Hepburn Springs
• Creswick Woollen Mills
• Tranquil Bringalbit Gardens
Central Victoria is the hub of gold
discoveries of the 1850’s and 1860’s,
accompanied with a huge influx of
miners, shopkeepers, hoteliers and
police. Harsh conditions, exorbitant
fees for miners licenses and racial
tension were all factors leading to
the Eureka stockade. Much lasting
wealth was produced, evidenced
today by magnificent restored
colonial buildings, art galleries,
churches and public facilities in
locations such as Ballarat, Creswick,
Castlemaine and Clunes. An easy
pace short break at RACV Goldfields,
formerly Novotel Forest Resort.
RACV Goldfields Resort
Adelaide*
$3,030
Brisbane*
$3,100
Canberra*
$3,100
Hobart/Launceston*
$2,930
Melbourne
$2,475
Perth*
$3,430
Sydney*
$3,000
Single supplement
$ 225
to departure.
Ballarat Botanic Gardens
35
Creswick
Taste of Victoria
8 days, departs May 17, Nov 9
Ballarat
Port Fairy
Warrnambool
Features
• Melbourne Tramcar Restaurant
• Eureka Skydeck
• Great Ocean Road & Twelve Apostles
• Sovereign Hill
• Buda Historic House
• Hepburn Springs Mineral Reserve
Enjoy a tiny sample of the multitude of
interesting Victorian locations in this
8 day “tasting” holiday which includes
some time in Melbourne. Interstate
visitors may choose to extend their
stay to visit relatives or friends
using the included airfares. Many
Melbournians and country Victorians
will also enjoy this 8 day all inclusive
itinerary. Our holiday includes the
world famous “Twelve Apostles” and
the Shipwreck Coast, the Southern
Ocean as well as gold rush Central
Victoria.
Sovereign Hill
Day 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS, MELBOURNE
Morning flights bring us to Melbourne and on
arrival we enjoy a short “City Sights” tour before
visiting the Eureka Tower Observation Deck. The
360 degree views of the city, bay and mountains
from the 88th level are truly stunning. Our home
for two nights is the Oaks on Collins, Melbourne.
Day 2 (B,L,D) ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS,
COLONIAL TRAMCAR RESTAURANT,
NATIONAL GALLERY
We take a morning stroll through the Royal
Botanic Gardens and then visit the Shrine of
Remembrance. Lunch today is aboard the
Colonial Tramcar Restaurant. A unique Melbourne
experience as we travel the streets of Melbourne
in a fully restored vintage tram. This afternoon we
visit the National Gallery of Victoria to view the
extensive collections and exhibitions.
Day 3 (B,L,D) GREAT OCEAN ROAD,
OTWAY RANGES, WARRNAMBOOL
We depart Melbourne, travelling through
Geelong to Torquay the starting point of the
Great Ocean Road, one of the world’s most scenic
coastal drives. Simply superb coastal scenery
as we make our way to Apollo Bay. During the
afternoon we turn inland through the cool climate
rainforest of the Otway Ranges, arriving into
Warrnambool later this afternoon. Our home for
three nights is the Quality Suites Deep Blue.
Victoria
Melbourne
Twelve Apostles
Day 6 (B,L,D) BALLARAT, SOVEREIGN HILL,
CRESWICK
From Warrnambool we travel to Ballarat where
early fortunes were based on the wealth created
by gold. We visit Sovereign Hill, a recreated 1850’s
township set on a site which forms part of the
richest alluvial goldfields the world has ever seen.
Continue to Creswick and our home for two
nights, RACV Goldfields Resort.
Day 7 (B,L,D) CASTLEMAINE, HEPBURN
SPRINGS, DAYLESFORD
After a leisurely breakfast we travel through gold
country to historic Castlemaine. Enjoy morning tea
and a guided tour at Buda House, a gentleman’s
residence built in 1861. Following lunch we visit
the spa capital of Hepburn Springs, visiting Mineral
Springs Reserve and touring the Convent Gallery
at nearby Daylesford. Some time for a stroll at Lake
Daylesford before returning to our resort.
Day 8 (B,L) BALLARAT,
MELBOURNE, HOME PORTS
This morning we return to Ballarat with time for a
stroll through the Robert Clark Conservatory at the
Botanic Gardens, adjacent to Lake Wendouree.
Following an enjoyable farewell lunch we return
to Melbourne concluding an enjoyable week long
visit to some of Victoria’s most unique locations.
Tramcar Restaurant
Day 4 (B,L,D) PORT CAMPBELL NATIONAL
PARK, TWELVE APOSTLES
For millions of years the forces of nature have
worn away the coastline in the Port Campbell
area resulting in a rugged coastline with many
landforms, the most famous being the Twelve
Apostles. This morning we journey along this
fantastic coastline, viewing London Arch, Loch Ard
Gorge, the famous Apostles and Gibsons Steps.
Returning to Warrnambool enjoy some time to
walk along Lady Bay, browse amongst the shops,
or simply relax at our hotel.
Twelve Apostles
Day 5 (B,L,D) WARRNAMBOOL,
FLAGSTAFF HILL MARITIME MUSEUM,
PORT FAIRY
This morning we visit Flagstaff Hill Maritime
Museum, a recreated maritime village where we
hear the hardships of those who sailed the high
seas. During the afternoon we take a guided
coach tour of nearby historic Port Fairy on the
Moyne River, one of Victoria’s earliest settlements
and boasting over 50 National Trust-classified
buildings. Following dinner we return to Flagstaff
Hill to view “Shipwrecked” a multi-media
experience that brings to life the story of the Loch
Ard disaster.
36
Adelaide*
$4,450
Brisbane*
$4,520
Canberra*
$4,520
Hobart/Launceston*
$4,350
Melbourne
$3,895
Perth*
$4,850
Sydney*
$4,420
Single supplement
$ 505
to departure.
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
BOTANIC GARDENS, BALLARAT
37
Murray
River
Echuca and the Murray
Echuca
5 days, departs May 18
Victoria
Features
• Tahbilk Winery
• Historic Port of Echuca
• Murray River Paddlesteamer Cruise
• Barmah Forest and Wetlands Cruise
• Peppin Heritage Centre
• Kyabram Wildlife Park
The Port of Echuca, on the Victorian
border, is approximately mid way
along the Victorian section of the
Murray, as it runs from its source in the
Australian Alps to Mildura and finally
into the ocean at Lake Alexandrina, at
Goolwa, in South Australia. In earlier
days Echuca was Australia’s busiest
inland port, home to paddle steamers
carrying passengers and cargo on the
Murray, Murrumbidgee and Darling
River systems serving towns and
station properties. A great climate and
a most pleasant short break holiday
destination.
Peppin Heritage Centre
Day 1 (L,D) MELBOURNE, TAHBILK
WINERY, SHEPPARTON, MOAMA
We depart Melbourne with a leisurely
drive into central Victoria and enjoy a
morning cuppa along the way. We arrive
at the historic Tahbilk Winery Wetlands
Café for lunch, its tranquil setting
located in the Nagambie Lakes region.
This afternoon we visit the interesting
Shepparton Heritage Centre before the
short journey to the Comfort Resort
Echuca Moama, our home for four nights.
Day 2 (B,L,D) TORRUMBARRY,
PORT OF ECHUCA
A relaxing day as we explore Echuca,
once Australia’s second busiest port and
the main transport hub for a huge area
served by the Murray, Murrumbidgee
and Darling Rivers. We take a short drive
to Torrumbarry Weir and Lock. Originally
built in 1923, we visit the interpretive
centre displaying the history of the weir
and lock. We retrace our steps back to
Echuca and visit the Port of Echuca, lunch
as we cruise the Murray on an authentic
paddle steamer. Free time this afternoon
to browse in the craft and antique shops
or relax back at our resort.
Day 4 (B,L,D) BARMAH WETLANDS
This morning we visit nearby Barmah and
join a river cruise with a certified eco guide
providing commentary about the hundreds
of water birds species, animals and native
fish that have made the Barmah wetlands
and forest their home. After an interesting
cruise we enjoy lunch at the Barmah Pub
before returning to Moama.
Day 5 (B,L) RUSHWORTH,
MELBOURNE
Homeward bound, we stop for morning tea
and a visit at the Kyabram Wildlife Park. On
to the historical town of Rushworth, where
we tour the Rushworth Museum. Time for
lunch and to browse among the historical
buildings before returning to Melbourne
late afternoon, completing a most enjoyable
stayput holiday on the Murray.
Tahbilk Winery
Day 3 (B,L,D) DENILIQUIN
Our journey today takes us into
southern NSW, to Deniliquin and the
Peppin Heritage Centre. This museum
is dedicated to the Peppin family who
developed, in the 1800’s, a Merino sheep
that could withstand and thrive in the
harsh Australian conditions. Lunch here
in this delightful country town before our
easy drive back to our resort.
Murray River
Adelaide*
$2,800
Brisbane*
$2,870
Canberra*
$2,870
Hobart/Launceston*
$2,700
Melbourne
$2,245
Perth*
$3,200
Sydney*
$2,770
Single supplement
$ 240
to departure.
38
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Murray
River
Goldfields and the Murray
Bendigo
Victoria
Day 1 (L,D) MELBOURNE, KYNETON,
BENDIGO
This morning we travel the Calder Highway
stopping first at Kyneton for morning cuppa
then drive via Lake Eppalock before arriving
in Bendigo for lunch. During the afternoon
visit the Golden Dragon Museum. Chinese
heritage is an integral part of Bendigo, from
the gold rush to the present day. Later we
arrive at our home for three nights, the
Comfort Inn Julie-Anna.
Day 2 (B,L,D) MALDON, GOLDFIELDS
RAILWAY, CASTLEMAINE
Today we travel to Maldon for a tour
highlight, ride the historic Victorian
Goldfields Railway to Castlemaine. Visit the
Botanic Gardens and enjoy lunch before
visiting Buda House and Garden. We return
to Bendigo via Harcourt.
Day 3 (B,L,D) BENDIGO TRAM,
BENDIGO POTTERY
A leisurely start as we board the Historic
Bendigo Talking Tram, operating since
1890, ride through the streets of Bendigo.
Time for a stroll and lunch in Bendigo, and
during the afternoon we visit the Bendigo
Art Gallery and Bendigo Pottery which has
been producing high quality ceramics for
over 150 years.
Day 4 (B,L,D) ELMORE, MOAMA
A later start this morning as we take a short
drive to Elmore where we visit Campaspe
Run, Rural Discovery Centre before
continuing toward the Murray River and
Moama. Lunch here followed by a visit to
Chanter Estate Military Museum and winery.
Experience a bygone era with the historic
Commercial and Military Vehicle display.
Horse drawn equipment, amphibious
military, vintage vehicles including vintage
and classic motorcycles. Over 40 exhibits
from 1900 to 19040’s. And finally our home
for three nights, Comfort Resort Echuca
Moama.
Day 5 (B,L,D) TORRUMBARRY, PORT
OF ECHUCA
A relaxing day as we explore Echuca, once
Australia’s second busiest port and the
main transport hub for a huge area served
by the Murray, Murrumbidgee and Darling
Rivers. We take a short drive to Torrumbarry
Weir and Lock. Originally built in 1923, we
visit the interpretive centre displaying the
history of the weir and lock. We retrace
our steps back to Echuca and visit the Port
of Echuca, lunch as we cruise the Murray
on an authentic paddle steamer. Free time
this afternoon to browse in the craft and
antique shops or relax back at our resort.
Day 6 (B,L,D) BARMAH, MOAMA
This morning we visit nearby Barmah to
join a river cruise with a certified eco guide
providing commentary about the hundreds
of water birds species, animals and native
fish that have made the Barmah wetlands
and forest their home. After an interesting
cruise we enjoy lunch at “The Barmah” Pub
before returning back to Moama.
Day 7 (B,L) HEATHCOTE, KILMORE,
MELBOURNE
Features
• Golden Dragon Museum
• Goldfields Railway
• Buda Historic House
• Bendigo Talking Tram
• Port of Echuca
• Barmah Eco Cruise
Early settlement outside Melbourne
was due to the discovery of gold
in the mid 1800’s, with a massive
temporary influx of miners. A few
made (and some lost) a fortune,
while others supplied the goldfields
with food, clothing, and other
necessities. Shops, hotels, breweries
and banks abounded. The wealth
created is reflected in the beautiful
colonial buildings in Bendigo and
Castlemaine which remain today.
The Port of Echuca carried goods
to stations returning with precious
wool bales, while the river gave
life to hundred of bird species and
sustenance to many native animals.
A leisurely start for our final day where we
travel the Northern Highway to Heathcote
and visit Court House Crafts before arriving
in Kilmore for lunch. Mid afternoon we
arrive in Melbourne completing a most
enjoyable holiday to the Goldfields and
Murray River.
Goldfields Railway
Adelaide*
$3,800
Brisbane*
$3,870
Canberra*
$3,870
Hobart/Launceston*
$3,700
Melbourne
$3,245
Perth*
$4,200
Sydney*
$3,770
Single supplement
$ 415
*Pre-tour Melbourne
to departure.
Port of Echuca
39
Murray River
Swan Hill
Mildura
Bendigo
Albury
Echuca
Melbourne
Features
• All Saints Winery
• Byramine Homestead
• Historic Port of Echuca
• Murray River Paddle Steamer Cruise
• Peppin Heritage Centre
• Pioneer Settlement
• Heartbeat of the Murray Laser Light show
• Rio Vista Historic House
• Bendigo Talking Tram
Much of this Victorian holiday follows
the majestic Murray River, 2508
kms in length from its source in the
Australian Alps to Lake Alexandrina,
at Goolwa in South Australia. Native
fish include cod, perch and catfish,
whereas trout has been introduced.
Known as the home of the river red
gum, with the Barmah forest the
largest river gum forest. We visit Lake
Hume, Torrumbarry Weir, All Saints
Winery, Byramine Homestead and
Peppin Heritage Centre. An easy pace
itinerary to make a most enjoyable 10
day exploring holiday.
All Saints Winery
Day 1 (L,D) MELBOURNE, EUROA,
BENALLA, ALBURY
Day 4 (B,L,D) TORRUMBARRY WEIR,
PORT of ECHUCA
Our scenic holiday commences with our
journey through the Yarra Valley to Yea,
morning cuppa along the way. Along the
Melba Highway to Merton, then across the
Strathbogie Ranges to Euroa, our luncheon
destination. An easy run along the Hume
Freeway to Benalla. Enjoy a stroll in the
beautiful Benalla Rose Garden or visit the
Regional Art Gallery. Afternoon cuppa
before the last leg of our journey to Albury
and the Hovell Tree Motel for two nights,
on the banks of the Murray River.
A relaxing day as we explore Echuca, once
Australia’s second busiest port and the main
transport hub for a huge area served by the
Murray, Murrumbidgee and Darling Rivers.
We take a short drive to Torrumbarry Weir
and Lock. Originally built in 1923, we visit
the interpretive centre displaying the history
of the weir and lock. We retrace our steps
back to Echuca and visit the Port of Echuca
for lunch as we cruise the Murray on an
authentic paddle steamer. Free time this
afternoon to browse in the craft and antique
shops or relax back at our resort.
Day 2 (B,L,D) ALBURY, LAKE HUME,
REGIONAL ART GALLERY
A leisurely start this morning as we take
in the view of Lake Hume at the dam
wall whilst enjoying a morning cuppa.
Returning to Albury view the city, river and
surrounding countryside from the War
Memorial. Lunch in Albury, followed by a
visit to the Regional Art Gallery. Some free
time back at our hotel to relax or wander
the Botanic Gardens adjacent to our hotel.
Day 3 (B,L,D) ALL SAINTS WINERY,
BYRAMINE HOMESTEAD, MOAMA
Today we travel the Riverina Highway to
Corowa then cross the Murray and visit
All Saints Winery. Enjoy wine tastings and
stroll the beautiful gardens. We continue
to Yarrawonga before arriving at historic
Byramine Homestead for a tour and lunch.
During the afternoon we travel along
the Murray Valley Highway via Cobram
to Moama and our home for two nights,
Comfort Resort Echuca Moama.
Day 5 (B,L,D) DENILIQUIN, KERANG,
LAKE BOGA, SWAN HILL
Our journey today takes us into southern
NSW, to Deniliquin and the Peppin Heritage
Centre. The museum is dedicated to the
Peppin family who developed, in the 1800’s,
a Merino sheep that could withstand and
thrive in the harsh Australian conditions.
We return to Victoria crossing the Murray at
Barham before arriving in Kerang for lunch.
During the afternoon we continue through
the “Lakes” district, home to approximately
57 lakes, including Lake Boga which was an
integral part of allied defence during World
War II. This facility helped to keep Australia
safe and we visit the No.1 Flying Boat Repair
and Service Depot Museum. It is a short
journey to Swan Hill and the Ibis Styles Hotel
for two nights.
Murray River
40
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Day 6 (B,L,D) SWAN HILL, PIONEER
SETTLEMENT, HEARTBEAT of the
MURRAY LASER LIGHT SHOW
Day 9 (B,L,D) MILDURA, RED CLIFFS,
CHARLTON, BENDIGO
An easy day as we view the giant Murray
Cod before arriving at the Pioneer
Settlement, a recreation of a small Mallee
town with over 50 replica buildings. Time to
explore the settlement at your own pace.
Lunch here today. Following an early dinner
tonight we return to the Pioneer Settlement
for a highlight “Heartbeat of the Murray”
laser light and water show, a 360 degree
multimedia spectacular.
Day 7 (B,L,D) ROBINVALE,
WENTWORTH, MILDURA
A leisurely travel day as we depart for
Robinvale for a morning cuppa before
crossing the Murray into NSW At
Wentworth we visit Lock 10, adjacent to
the convergence of the Murray and Darling
Rivers, prior to lunch. We tour the historic
Wentworth Gaol before continuing to
Mildura and the Mercure Hotel, our home
for two nights.
Day 8 (B,L,D) MILDURA, MURRAY RIVER
CRUISE, RIO VISTA
This morning we relax as we cruise along
the Murray River enjoying morning tea as
the red gums glide past. Lunch in Mildura
followed by a visit to Rio Vista Historic House
and the Old Mildura Homestead. Time to
stroll along the river bank in the afternoon.
Travel the Calder Highway today stopping
first at Red Cliffs to view “Big Lizzie”, a very
large tractor which was designed to work
in sandy soils. When it was built “Big Lizzie”
was the biggest tractor in Australia and
thought to be the biggest in the world
weighing 45 tons. We stop in Ouyen for
morning tea then continue to Sea Lake and
Wycheproof before arriving for lunch in
Charlton. During the afternoon a short drive
has us arriving in Bendigo where we visit
Bendigo Pottery which has been producing
high quality ceramics for over 150 years. Our
accommodation for tonight is the Comfort
Inn Julie-Anna.
Swan Hill Pioneer Settlement
Day 10 (B,L) BENDIGO TRAM, KILMORE,
HOME PORTS
A leisurely start today as we board the
Historic Bendigo Talking Tram, operating
since 1890, for a ride through Bendigo
streets. We then travel to Heathcote
and arrive in Kilmore for lunch. Later in
the afternoon we arrive in Melbourne
completing a most enjoyable holiday
following the mighty Murray River.
Byramine Homestead
Lake Hume
Bendigo Tram
Adelaide*
$5,340
Brisbane*
$5,410
Canberra*
$5,410
Hobart/Launceston*
$5,240
Melbourne
$4,785
Perth*
$5,740
Sydney*
$5,310
Single supplement
$ 415
to departure.
Port of Echuca
41
Victoria
Daylesford
Features
• Hanging Rock
• Mount Macedon
• Hepburn Mineral Springs
• Victorian Goldfields Railway
• Buda House
• Creswick Woollen Mills
Located in the Macedon Ranges and
at the foothills of the Great Dividing
Range, Daylesford was born in 1852
in the heady gold rush days. It later
became famous for its natural mineral
springs, some 80% of Australia’s
known mineral springs being located
in this area. A fascinating area to
visit, with galleries, coffee shops,
bed and breakfast and guest house
style accommodation houses. The
Goldfields Railway, running on an
old track between Castlemaine and
Maldon, and Creswick Woollen Mills
add to our enjoyment of our short
holiday.
Goldfields Railway
Day 1 (L,D) MELBOURNE, MOUNT
MACEDON, HANGING ROCK,
DAYLESFORD
Departing Melbourne we travel to Mount
Macedon where we stop at the tranquil
open garden of Tieve Tara. We continue
to the summit of Mount Macedon to the
memorial cross which commemorates
Australia’s war fallen. The view from the
cross takes in the entire southern plain
towards Port Phillip Bay. We arrive at
picturesque Daylesford for afternoon tea
then onto the pretty village of Hepburn
Springs and our home for the next four
nights, Grange Bellinzona.
Day 2 (B,L,D) HEPBURN
SPRINGS, DAYLESFORD
After a leisurely breakfast we visit Mineral
Springs Reserve. Dating back 150 years the
reserve was created to save several mineral
springs known for their “magical” healing
powers. At Daylesford we tour the Convent
Gallery and take a stroll at Lake Daylesford.
Time to explore Daylesford’s village before
returning to our hotel.
Today we explore Creswick and the nearby
historic village of Clunes. We enjoy a
guided tour and morning tea at the
Creswick Woollen Mills, witness the last
remaining coloured spinning mill of its type
in Australia. We travel to Clunes, famous
as the place that sparked the Victorian
Gold Rush. Visit the Clunes Museum and
time to wander this small but beautifully
preserved town. Following lunch here we
travel back to Creswick with free time at our
hotel.
Day 5 (B,L) BALLARAT, MELBOURNE
This morning we travel to Ballarat for a
morning cuppa and stroll through the
Robert Clark Conservatory at the Botanic
Gardens, adjacent to Lake Wendouree.
We tour the city’s highlights prior to an
enjoyable farewell lunch here. Our short
break holiday in a delightful part of Victoria
concludes on return to Melbourne.
Day 3 (B,L,D) CASTLEMAINE,
VICTORIAN GOLDFIELDS RAILWAY,
MALDON
This morning we travel through gold
country to historic Castlemaine. Enjoy
morning tea and a guided tour at Buda
House. Late morning we board the historic
Goldfields Railway, an authentic steam train,
for the relaxing ride to Maldon. Lunch here
and time to explore the township, which has
retained its authentic pioneer appearance,
before returning to Daylesford.
Lake Daylesford
Day 4 (B,L,D) CRESWICK WOOLLEN
MILLS , CLUNES
Adelaide*
$2,930
Brisbane*
$3,000
Canberra*
$3,000
Hobart/Launceston*
$2,830
Melbourne
$2,375
Perth*
$3,330
Sydney*
$2,900
Single supplement
$ 270
to departure.
42
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Inverloch - RACV Resort
Victoria
Inverloch
Features
YARRAGON, KORUMBURRA,
INVERLOCH
Today we travel to Yarragon, a delightful
town with many specialty shops and
galleries. Morning cuppa and a little
time to browse before we continue to
Korumburra for a light lunch. A short visit
at Coal Creek before driving along the
beautiful hills of the Strzelecki Ranges
to our destination for five nights, RACV
Resort Inverloch.
Day 2 (B,L,D) TARWIN LOWER,
VENUS BAY, CAPE PATERSON
Visit Tarwin Lower and Venus Bay
situated on a narrow peninsula of land,
bordered on one side by the wild seas
of Bass Strait and on the other by the
calm waters of Anderson Inlet. Following
a light lunch we enjoy the Bunurong
Coastal Drive, a stunning 14 kilometre
stretch of coastline between Cape
Paterson and Inverloch. Magnificent
scenery!
Day 3 (B,L,D) CHURCHILL ISLAND,
PHILLIP ISLAND
Day 5 (B,L,D) MIRBOO NORTH,
INVERLOCH
Enjoy morning tea and view the murals
at Mirboo North before returning via
Meeniyan to enjoy a light lunch at
Koonwarra. We have some free time this
afternoon to relax at the resort.
Day 6 (B,L) LOCH, CALDERMEADE,
MELBOURNE
This morning a scenic drive along
Andersons Inlet Road to Loch, our morning
tea stop. Time to enjoy the antique and
craft shops, bric-a-brac stores, galleries,
original buildings and colourful cottage
gardens. Lunch at Caldermeade Farm and
Café. Settled in 1875, Caldermeade was
originally one of the region’s premier beef
cattle properties. Today it is a modern,
fully operational commercial dairy farm.
We arrive in Melbourne mid afternoon
completing a most relaxing stayput holiday
in Inverloch.
Koala Conservation Centre
• Strzelecki Ranges
• Bunurong Coastal Drive
• Koala Conservation Centre
• The Nobbies
• Wilsons Promontory
• Mirboo North Murals
• Loch Village
The modern RACV Inverloch Resort
is located opposite the beach on the
picturesque South Gippsland coast.
Boasting panoramic views of the Bass
Coast and Anderson Inlet the resort
is just few minutes from the attractive
seaside township of Inverloch.
Leisurely day trips including the
scenic Bunurong Coastal drive, superb
Wilsons Promontory, charming Phillip
Island. Our ocean view rooms (some
restrictions) have private balconies
with walk in showers. Full breakfast is
served in the resort restaurant, dinners
at the resort or at local restaurants.
RACV Inverloch
Today we visit Kilcunda cliffs and
Churchill Island with its historic working
farm and original 1872 homestead. Visit
the Koala Conservation Centre for an
opportunity to get very close to wild
koalas. Lunch at the Seal Centre Cafe at
The Nobbies. We return to Inverloch via
Cowes, Phillip Island’s main settlement.
Day 4 (B,L,D) WILSONS
PROMONTORY NP
Superb scenery as we visit Wilsons
Promontory National Park. Enjoy
extensive coastal views on route
to the most southern coastline on
the Australian mainland. Take in the
views before arriving at Tidal River.
Following lunch there is time to visit
the Information Centre, enjoy a short
stroll to Norman Bay or try the Loo Ern
boardwalk. Later we stop at Squeaky
Beach, aptly named!
The Nobbies
Adelaide*
$3,400
Brisbane*
$3,470
Canberra*
$3,470
Hobart/Launceston*
$3,300
Melbourne
$2,845
Perth*
$3,800
Sydney*
$3,370
Single supplement
$ 400
to departure.
43
Victoria
Mornington
Features
• Cruden Farm
• Beautiful Point Nepean
• Charming Sorrento
• Historic Heronswood House
• Scenic Arthurs Seat
• Cape Schanck
• Beleura House
Just an hour from Melbourne
but a world away is the beautiful
Mornington Peninsula, known for
its scenic coastal vistas, pristine
beaches, boutique wineries and
galleries. We stay at the Best Western
Plus Brooklands of Mornington,
nestled amongst 3 acres of stunning
landscaped gardens. The property
combines the charm of an historic
homestead which houses the hotel’s
restaurant Eighteen78, and modern
accommodation. Our luxurious rooms
all have walk in showers and each
feature a private courtyard.
Cruden Farm
DAY 1 (L,D) MELBOURNE,
MORNINGTON PENINSULA
Day 4 (B,L,D) CAPE SCHANCK,
ASHCOMBE LAVENDER FARM
Our Mornington Peninsula getaway begins
as we travel to the charming Royal Botanic
Gardens in Cranbourne where we stop for
a morning cuppa. Later at Langwarrin we
visit the wonderful gardens of Cruden Farm,
former home to Dame Elizabeth Murdoch.
Lunch in Mt Eliza before stopping in at the
Manyung Gallery, showcasing artworks and
unique sculptures. We arrive at our home
for the next four nights, Best Western Plus
Brooklands of Mornington.
Today we venture to the eastern side of the
peninsula, visiting the most southern point
of the Peninsula, Cape Schanck, with its
rugged and rocky outcrops. Lunch at the
RACV Cape Schanck Resort with sweeping
views of the resort and golf course. During
the afternoon we explore the gardens at
Ashcombe Lavender Farm. On our return
we stop at the fascinating Gordon Studio
Glassblowers.
Day 2 (B,L,D) POINT NEPEAN,
PORTSEA, SORRENTO
This morning we explore the western tip
of the peninsula at Point Nepean, one of
Victoria’s beautiful natural landscapes.
Opened to the public in December 1988,
the area had previously been inaccessible
for over 100 years. We also tour Sorrento
and Portsea with time to explore the shops
and galleries in both townships.
Day 3 (B,L,D) DROMANA,
HERONSWOOD, ARTHURS SEAT
DAY 5 (B,L) BELEURA HOUSE,
MELBOURNE
This morning we visit the Mornington
Regional Gallery displaying local art and
touring exhibitions. At Beleura House we
tour fascinating gardens and estate. The
1863 Italianate Villa houses an amazing
collection of nostalgic items, a real hidden
gem! Light lunch here before returning
to Melbourne, completing our relaxing
peninsula holiday.
Heronswood
Following a leisurely breakfast we take the
short drive to Dromana. Time to stroll along
the foreshore and pier prior to visiting
Heronswood, a National Trust property
and home to manicured gardens and
magnificent sea views. Lunch at nearby
Arthurs Seat a well known and recognized
landmarks. The summit offers spectacular
panoramic views across the peninsula and
Port Philip Bay.
Mornington Peninsula
Cape Schanck
Adelaide*
$2,940
Brisbane*
$3,010
Canberra*
$3,010
Hobart/Launceston*
$2,840
Melbourne
$2,385
Perth*
$3,340
Sydney*
$2,910
Single supplement
$ 280
to departure.
44
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Bright Holiday
Victoria
Bright
Features
• Bright in Springtime
Day 1 (L,D) MELBOURNE, MANSFIELD,
KING VALLEY, MILAWA
Day 5 (B,L,D) TAWONGA GAP, MOUNT
BEAUTY
This morning we travel through the scenic
Yarra Valley to Yea, for a morning cuppa. We
continue to Mansfield and then Tolmie, taking
in the views over the King Valley at Powers
Lookout. Travelling through this emerging
gourmet food and wine region we arrive at
the charming town of Bright. Time to settle in
to our home for the next five nights, Ovens
Valley Motor Inn.
We traverse the Tawonga Gap, stopping
to take in the views over the Kiewa Valley
before arriving in the township of Mount
Beauty, established in the 1940’s to house
workers employed on the Kiewa Hydro
Electric Scheme. Some time to explore and
enjoy lunch here. Later free time back in
Bright this afternoon.
Day 2 (B,L,D) BRIGHT
We spend our day in and around the
beautiful township of Bright, renowned for
its tree lined streets and striking outlook. The
area affords truly magnificent colours in the
springtime. Time to wander the banks of the
Ovens River and visit the informative Bright
Museum. Following lunch we take a leisurely
drive to Harrietville, gateway to Mt Hotham
Alpine Resort.
Day 3 (B,L,D) BEECHWORTH, RED
STAG DEER FARM
This morning we travel to the pretty
township of Yackandandah, prior to arriving
in Beechworth, scene of much gold rushcreated wealth. Some time to browse and
enjoy lunch before taking a guided tour of
this historic township. This afternoon we visit
the Red Stag Farm, feed the tame deer and
emus if you wish, and browse the unique gift
shop.
Day 6 (B,L) BENALLA, KILMORE,
MELBOURNE
Following a leisurely breakfast we journey
to Benalla, home to the beautiful Benalla
Rose Garden on the shores of Lake Benalla,
our stop for a morning cuppa. We also
visit the excellent Benalla Costume and
Kelly Museum displaying memorabilia of
the area. We continue to the historic town
of Kilmore for our farewell lunch before
returning to Melbourne, completing our
enjoyable spring getaway.
Bright
• Mount Buffalo National Park
• Picturesque King Valley
• Unique Red Stag Deer Farm
• Wandiligong Hedge Maze
• Benalla Rose Garden
Bright and the North East is a
delightful area in which to holiday.
As with many other Victorian
country areas, its origins lie in
the gold rush of the 1850’s and
1860’s. From Mansfield enjoy a
scenic journey to Powers Lookout,
overlooking King Valley and named
after a bushranger. From our guided
coach tour of the historic gold town
of Beechworth to the stunning views
from Mt Buffalo Chalet make a
most enjoyable short break stay put
Spring holiday.
5
Ovens Valley Motor Inn
Day 4 (B,L,D) MOUNT BUFFALO,
WANDILIGONG
We begin our enjoyable day with a visit to Mt
Buffalo National Park. Enjoy panoramic views
of the Ovens Valley and Australian Alps from
the Gorge Lookout. Lunch in Bright and
during the afternoon visit the Wandiligong
Hedge Maze, surrounded by scenic gardens
in the charming Wandiligong Valley.
Mount Buffalo NP
Adelaide*
$3,140
Brisbane*
$3,210
Canberra*
$3,210
Hobart/Launceston*
$3,040
Melbourne
$2,585
Perth*
$3,540
Sydney*
$3,110
Single supplement
$ 315
to departure.
45
New South Wales
HUNTER VALLEY GARDENS
46
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
New South Wales
Port Macquarie
Features
PORT MACQUARIE
Day 5 (B,L,D) TIMBERTOWN
HERITAGE VILLAGE, KOALA
HOSPITAL, ROTO HOUSE
Today we arrive into the coastal town of
Port Macquarie for our relaxing stayput
holiday. We tour the area before arriving
at the Waters Edge Port Macquarie, our
home for the next five nights. Time to
settle in prior to dinner together at the
hotel.
We take a short drive inland to the rustic
country village of Wauchope to visit the
Timbertown Heritage Village. An entirely
recreated working town set amongst
87 acres of natural forest. Time here to
ride the railway, and view the various
demonstrations. Following lunch we visit
the Koala Hospital and step back in time
at the beautifully restored Roto House.
Day 2 (B,L,D) SOUTH WEST ROCKS,
TRIAL BAY GAOL, KEMPSEY
A relaxing day as we travel north to
South West Rocks where we visit the Trial
Bay Gaol and Museum with spectacular
coastal views. At nearby Kempsey
we tour the interesting Macleay River
Historical Society and Settlers Cottage
prior to returning to our hotel.
Day 6 (B,L) PORT MACQUARIE,
HOME PORTS
This morning we visit the Tacking Point
Lighthouse for spectacular ocean views.
An early lunch before returning to Port
Macquarie Airport, completing our
relaxing stayput holiday.
Day 3 (B,L,D) LUNCH CRUISE, PORT
MACQUARIE
A leisurely start as we join an enjoyable
luncheon cruise along the imposing
Hastings River. Take in the magnificent
views along the foreshore whilst enjoying
a delicious lunch. Later we visit the
Regional Art Gallery located within
the unique Glasshouse Building in Port
Macquarie.
Sea Acres Rainforest Centre
• Trial Bay Gaol
• Port Venture Lunch Cruise • Glass House Regional Gallery
• Amazing Billabong Wildlife Park
• Fascinating Sea Acres Rainforest Centre
• Rustic Timbertown Heritage Village
• Charming Koala Hospital Port Macquarie is an ideal
holiday destination enjoying mild
temperatures year round. Rich in
natural attractions from stunning
beaches to meandering rivers and
mountain hinterlands. Located on
the picturesque Hastings River, we
stay at the centrally located Waters
Edge Port Macquarie. Our deluxe
balcony rooms have either pool
or canal views and all have walk
in showers. Breakfast daily at our
hotel and dinners will be at nearby
restaurants.
Billabong Wildlife Park
Day 4 (B,L,D) BILLABONG WILDLIFE
PARK, SEA ACRES RAINFOREST
CENTRE
We spend our morning at the Billabong
Koala and Wildlife Park, enjoy zoo keeper
presentations and if you wish, get up
close to the wildlife. We return to Port
Macquarie for lunch prior to visiting the
fascinating Sea Acres Rainforest Centre.
Here we take a guided tour along the
elevated boardwalk rainforest canopy.
Later some free time at our hotel.
Port Macquarie Lighthouse
Adelaide
$3,615
Brisbane
$3,565
Canberra
$3,665
Hobart/Launceston
$3,665
Melbourne
$3,465
Perth
$3,815
Sydney
$3,265
Single supplement
$ 405
to departure.
47
Coffs Harbour Holiday
Coffs Harbour
6 days, departs Aug 3
New South Wales
Features
• Dorrigo National Park
and Waterfall Way
• Dolphin Marine Magic
• Butterfly House
• Coffs Harbour Regional Museum
• Solitary Islands Aquarium
• North Coast Regional Botanic Gardens
Welcome to sub tropical warm climate
of the central Coast and Coffs Harbour,
where in August the average temperature is around 20 degrees and where
the city enjoys 122 days of clear sunshine each year. In the early 1900’s
the port was an important timber port,
later bananas were its most important
product, now changed to blueberries,
combined with tourism and fishing.
Nearby enjoy stunning views from
Dorrigo National Park, also enjoy
interacting with the local dolphins and
a stroll in the botanic gardens.
Dorrigo National Park
Day 5 (B,L,D) MARKETS, SOLITARY
ISLANDS AQUARIUM, NORTH COAST
REGIONAL BOTANIC GARDENS
Day 1 (D) HOME PORTS, COFFS
HARBOUR
Our coastal getaway begins on arrival
into Coffs Harbour Airport where we
enjoy afternoon tea prior to arriving at
our home for five nights, Novotel Pacific
Bay Resort.
Sunday is “Market Day” and this morning
we visit both the Harbourside and the
Jetty Markets. Later we visit the Solitary
Islands Aquarium affiliated with Southern
Cross University. A leisurely Sunday lunch
before we take a stroll through the North
Coast Regional Botanic Gardens. An
enjoyable day.
Day 2 (B,L,D) COFFS HARBOUR
Following a leisurely breakfast we spend
a day exploring Coffs Harbour. We visit
the iconic Big Banana and Clog Barn,
two attractions unique to the township.
Following lunch at the Marina Village we
visit the Coffs Harbour Regional Museum
before taking in the magnificent views
from the Forest Sky Pier. An easy paced
day!
Day 3 (B,L,D) DORRIGO NATIONAL
PARK and WATERFALL WAY
We spend a day away from the coast as
we head inland towards Bellingen and
into the Dorrigo National Park, part of the
Gondwana Rainforests Heritage area. At
the Rainforest Centre we step out over
the escarpment at the Skywalk Lookout,
offering panoramic views over the
rainforest. Lunch here at the Canopy Café.
We stop at The Glade, and take an easy
stroll through the rainforest along the fully
accessible Walk with the Birds Boardwalk.
Return to Coffs Harbour along part of the
scenic Waterfall Way.
Day 6 (B,L) COFFS HARBOUR,
HOME PORTS
A later breakfast before we depart our
hotel, taking a leisurely drive along the
Northern beaches. We return to Coffs
Harbour Airport for our home bound flights
completing our relaxing coastal holiday.
This tour can be combined with the
Port Macquarie Holiday commencing
on Jul 28
Butterfly House
Day 4 (B,L,D) DOLPHIN MARINE
MAGIC, BUTTERFLY HOUSE
Dolphin Marine Magic is Australia’s most
interactive marine park where you can
be kissed by a seal, shake “hands” with a
dolphin or feed a penguin. We spend an
enjoyable morning here. Following lunch
we stroll the delightful Butterfly House,
home to hundreds of Australian Butterflies.
This afternoon is at your leisure.
Novotel Pacific Bay Resort
Adelaide
$3,475
Brisbane
$3,475
Canberra
$3,475
Hobart/Launceston
$3,575
Melbourne
$3,375
Perth
$3,675
Sydney
$3,175
Single supplement
$ 300
to departure.
48
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Port Stephens and the Hawkesbury
New South Wales
Port Stephens
Hawkesbury River
Features
Day 6 (B,L,D) TOBRUK SHEEP STATION
Day 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS, PORT
STEPHENS
A unique experience today as we make the
short journey to Tobruk Sheep Station. The
stockmen and jillaroos guide us through an
authentic outback experience. Highlights
include a sheep muster and working dog
display, sheep shearing, whip cracking and
boomerang throwing. Enjoy some bush
tucker such as damper, billy tea and a BBQ
lunch. A great day out!
Today we fly to the seaside town of
Newcastle on arrival travel the short
distance to beautiful Port Stephens. Our
home for four nights, Oaks Pacific Blue.
Some time to unpack and explore this
delightful resort before dinner.
Day 2 (B,L,D) SHOAL BAY,
BOAT HARBOUR, SOLDIERS POINT
We tour the local area today as we visit
Shoal Bay, the picturesque Fingal Bay,
morning tea at Boat Harbour, then travel
to Soldiers Point for lunch at the marina.
During the afternoon visit Port Stephens
Community Art and Craft Centre prior to
returning to our Resort.
Day 3 (B,L,D) DOLPHIN CRUISE
Enjoy the morning on a Dolphin
spotting cruise around the inner and
outer harbours. Spectacular views of
the headlands and outer islands. You
are almost guaranteed to see dolphins!
Morning tea as we relax on the water.
Back in Nelson Bay enjoy lunch at the
Bowls Club with excellent views of the Port
Stephens area then a little free time to
explore Nelson Bay.
• Dolphin Cruise
• Spectacular Hunter Valley Gardens
• Convict Built, Old Northern Road
• Ebenezer Australia’s Oldest Church
• Hawkesbury Regional Museum
• Unique Tobruk Sheep Station
Day 7 (B,L,D) EBENEZER, WINDSOR
Established in 1809, Ebenezer Church is the
oldest existing Church and first Presbyterian
Church in Australia. We enjoy a visit and
morning cuppa here. Continuing to Windsor
we visit the Hawkesbury Regional Museum
home to numerous displays and artefacts
unique to the area. Following lunch we
have time in Windsor prior to returning to
Wisemans Ferry.
Day 8 (B,L) SYDNEY, HOME PORTS
After a leisurely breakfast we depart our
resort returning to Sydney. Following an
enjoyable farewell lunch overlooking the
ocean in Mosman, we transfer to Sydney
Airport to join homebound flights, completing
our enjoyable getaway.
The beautiful coastal town of Port
Stephens is an area visited over
many years by YAH. This holiday
combines 4 nights at Oaks Pacific
Blue at Port Stephens with 3
nights at Retreat at Wisemans at
Wisemans Ferry, a small village on
the Hawkesbury. Visit local areas
including Shoal Bay and Fingal Bay,
ride the ferry from Tea Gardens to
Nelson Bay, enjoy a dolphin cruise,
visit the famous Hunter Valley and
visit Tobruk Sheep Station. Eight
days of enjoyable exploring in this
delightful area.
Retreat at Wiseman
Port Stephens
Day 4 (B,L,D) NELSON BAY
A leisurely start before enjoying a
morning cuppa at the Nelson Head Inner
Lighthouse, lovely views across Shoal Bay.
We continue to the Tea Gardens for lunch.
During the afternoon we return to Nelson
Bay by ferry. Mid afternoon we relax back
at our Resort.
GARDENS, WISEMANS FERRY
An earlier start today as we visit the
stunning Hunter Valley Gardens located in
the midst of the Hunter vineyards. Enjoy
morning tea and a guided tour of the
gardens then some free time to stroll at
your leisure. Superb views as we enjoy
lunch in the Gardens Café. During the
afternoon we travel through Cessnock, the
oldest wine-growing region in Australia
and other delightful country towns as we
make our way towards Wisemans Ferry.
Later we cross the majestic Hawkesbury
River by ferry, prior to arriving at our home
for three nights, Retreat at Wisemans.
Adelaide
$4,435
Brisbane
$4,235
Canberra
$4,335
Hobart/Launceston
$4,485
Melbourne
$4,235
Perth*
$4,890
Sydney
$3,935
Single supplement
$ 405
to departure.
49
New South Wales
Newcastle and The Hunter Valley
Newcastle
Features
• Scenic Harbour Cruise
• Magnificent Hunter Valley Gardens
• Hidden murals of Kurri Kurri
• Newcastle Tram
• Port Stephens and Nelson Head
• Fighterworld Aviation Museum
Located at the mouth of the Hunter
River, Newcastle is largely known as an
industrial centre, being the largest coal
exporting port in the world. Today
this modern city and surrounding
region is host to a large an increasing
number of tourist visitors, in recent
years including YAH. An enjoyable
harbour cruise, the Newcastle tram
and Museum plus regional attractions
such as Hunter Valley Gardens and
nearby Port Stephens and Nelson
Bay all combine to ensure a most
enjoyable Newcastle holiday.
Best Western Apollo International Hotel
Day 1 (L,D) HOME, NEWCASTLE
Today we fly to the city of Newcastle to
begin our spring holiday. We transfer to
our home for five nights, the Best Western
Apollo International Hotel. Time to relax,
unpack and settle into this delightful hotel.
Day 2 (B,L,D) NEWCASTLE HARBOUR
CRUISE, HUNTER REGION BOTANIC
GARDENS
A leisurely start prior to boarding the
Moonshadow IV, a Supercat catamaran,
where we spend an enjoyable morning
cruising Newcastle Harbour. Take in the
wonderful views along the foreshore and
headlands as we cruise. In the afternoon
we take a short drive to the Hunter Region
Botanic Gardens. Afternoon tea and time
for a stroll here.
Day 3 (B,L,D) NEWCASTLE TRAM,
NEWCASTLE MUSEUM
Enjoy a relaxing morning taking in the
views along the wharf area and ocean
beaches of Newcastle. Then take a
ride with a difference on the famous
Newcastle Tram as it rumbles past the
major attractions of Central Newcastle
and the waterfront. Lunch at the scenic
Queens Wharf old dockside area. During
the afternoon we visit the fascinating
Newcastle Museum and enjoy some free
time in Newcastle or return to our hotel.
Day 5 (B,L,D) PORT STEPHENS,
NELSON HEAD INNER LIGHTHOUSE,
NELSON BAY
This morning we drive to Nelson Bay and
visit the Nelson Head Inner Lighthouse.
Enjoy morning tea here with views
overlooking Shoal Bay. Visit Shoal Bay and
the Port Stephens Community Arts Centre.
See an incredible range of artwork and
special craft pieces reflecting the region’s
artisans. Stroll along the Marina boardwalk
and enjoy lunch at the Nelson Bay Bowls
Club with magnificent views over Port
Stephens. We return to Newcastle via Boat
Harbour and Anna Bay.
Day 6 (B,L) NEWCASTLE, HOME
PORTS
Our time in this beautiful region comes
to an end. We view the RAAF history at
Fighter World Aviation Museum. An early
lunch before we return to Newcastle
airport, where we board our homeward
flights, concluding a most relaxing and
enjoyable spring holiday.
Shoal Bay
GARDENS, KURRI KURRI
An earlier start as we visit the magnificent
Hunter Valley Gardens, located in the heart
of the Hunter vineyards at the foothills of
the Brokenback Ranges. Journey through
Hexham, Maitland and Branxton. At the
Hunter Valley Gardens we enjoy morning
tea before a guided tour around the 25
hectares of sensational sights, colours and
fragrances on a people mover. Time to
stroll and enjoy the gardens before lunch
at the Gardens Café. We travel back to our
hotel via Cessnock and Kurri Kurri where
we stop to look at the very attractive
murals, each with a “hidden” Kookaburra.
Adelaide
$3,475
Brisbane
$3,275
Canberra
$3,475
Hobart/Launceston
$3,625
Melbourne
$3,275
Perth*
$3,930
Sydney
$3,025
Single supplement
$ 375
*Pre-tour Sydney
to departure.
50
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Majestic Mountains
Tumut
Wangaratta
Jindabyne
Bright
Melbourne
Features
Day 1 (L,D) MELBOURNE, EUROA,
BENALLA, WANGARATTA
Day 5 (B,L,D) JINDABYNE, THREDBO,
MT KOSCIUSZKO
Our scenic mountain holiday
commences as we journey through the
Yarra Valley to Yea for a morning cuppa.
Along the Melba Highway to Merton,
then across the Strathbogie Ranges to
Euroa, our luncheon destination. An easy
run along the Hume Freeway to Benalla.
Enjoy a stroll in the beautiful Benalla
Rose Garden or visit the Regional Art
Gallery. Afternoon cuppa before the last
leg of our journey to Wangaratta and
the Gateway Motel for one night.
This morning we take a short drive
to Thredbo. A ride on the Thredbo
chairlift awaits – an exhilarating ride with
magnificent views. We return to Jindabyne
for lunch then continue to Perisher Valley
and Charlotte Pass on the highest public
road in Australia. Great mountain vistas and
views (subject to weather) of Mt Kosciuszko
from a nearby boardwalk and lookout (a few
steps involved to reach the top lookout.)
Day 2 (B,L,D) LAKE HUME,
TUMBARUMBA, TUMUT
From Wangaratta we travel past Albury
to Lake Hume for a cuppa overlooking
the Hume Weir wall. We continue,
crossing Lake Hume and following the
Murray River to Jingellic prior to arriving
in Tumbarumba for lunch. During the
afternoon we drive through "Apple"
country at Batlow before arriving in
Tumut for two nights at Country Comfort
Tumut Valley.
Day 3 (B,L,D) TUMUT, ADELONG
Today we visit the nearby historic village
of Adelong with many National Trust
classified buildings lining the main
street. Enjoy the beautiful Adelong
Falls and view the old Gold Mill Ruins.
Time to stroll along the main street
before returning to Tumut for lunch. In
the afternoon visit Tumut Valley Violets
displaying over 700 varieties of plants.
Devonshire afternoon tea here before
returning to our motel.
Day 4 (B,L,D) YARRANGOBILLY
CAVES, ADAMINABY, JINDABYNE
A short drive this morning to
Yarrangobilly Caves, a group of
limestone caves set amongst deep
gorges and steep bluffs. Enjoy morning
cuppa followed by a tour of Jillibean
Cave, said to be one of the most
decorative caves in Australia. Later we
continue to Kiandra then to Adaminaby
for lunch and a visit to the Snowy
Scheme Museum, before arriving in
Jindabyne and our home for two nights,
Rydges Horizons Snowy Mountains.
Day 6 (B,L,D) CORRYONG, BRIGHT
Today the scenery is again stunning and
spectacular as we drive along the Alpine
Way, taking in the magnificent views from
Scammels Spur Lookout prior to arriving in
Corryong for lunch. During the afternoon
we travel along the Murray Valley Highway
to Tallangatta then on to Kiewa and Mount
Beauty before arriving in Bright for two
nights at the Ovens Valley Motor Inn.
Day 7 (B,L,D) MT BUFFALLO,
WANDILIGONG, BRIGHT
Enjoy magnificent views from the lookout
at Mt Buffalo this morning while you have
a cuppa near the summit. Lunch is back in
Bright with time for a stroll in the township.
During the afternoon we take a liesurely
drive in to the scenic Wandiligong Valley.
View the historic buildings and productive
fruit orchards in this pleasant valley.
• Tumut Valley Violets
• Yarrangobilly Caves
• Thredbo Chairlift
• Perisher Valley and Charlotte Pass
• Mt Kosciuszko
• Bright
If you love mountain scenery, this
8 day holiday is a “must do” trip
for you. We travel through much
of the Snowy Mountains, snow
bound in winter but beautifully
fresh after the snow season! Most
stopovers are for two nights to
maximise easy pace travel. Visiting
Charlotte Pass on the highest public
road in Australia, the scenic drive
along the Great Alpine Way and the
“easier” coach climb to Mt Buffalo
all contribute to our “majestic
mountains” holiday.
Mt Kosciuszko
Day 8 (B,L) ALEXANDRA, MELBOURNE
Homeward bound we travel to Mansfield
and then Alexandra, our lunch stop.
The last of mountain scenery as we
return via the Black Spur to Healesville
and then into Melbourne, arriving late
afternoon completing a most enjoyable
holiday through some of Australia’s most
picturesque areas.
Lake Jindabyne
Adelaide*
$4,430
Brisbane*
$4,500
Canberra*
$4,500
Hobart/Launceston*
$4,330
Melbourne
$3,875
Perth*
$4,830
Sydney*
$4,400
Single supplement
$ 435
* Pre-tour Melbourne
to departure.
51
52
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Queensland
WHALE WATCHING
6
53
Discover Brisbane City
Queensland
Features
Brisbane
• Mount Coot-tha Lookout
• Brisbane Botanic Gardens
• Southbank Precinct
• Tamborine Mountain and Skywalk
• Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
• Brisbane River Dinner Cruise
Similar to all Australian capitals, there
is more interesting attractions and
activities in Brisbane than most people
imagine. YAH has not holidayed in
Brisbane, hence this short 5 day stay
put holiday. Each day moves out from
the central city (in non peak periods)
to explore and enjoy. You may choose
to extend your holiday to visit relatives
or friends in other parts of Queensland
using your YAH holiday air fares
to combine with other travelling
arrangements.
Brisbane River
7
Day 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS, BRISBANE,
MOUNT COOT-THA LOOKOUT
Upon arrival into Brisbane we travel
to the Mount Coot-tha Lookout, enjoy
stunning views over the Brisbane skyline
and Moreton Bay. Lunch here at Summit
Restaurant. We stroll the Brisbane
Botanic Gardens at the foot of Mt
Coot-tha, Queensland’s premier sub
tropical gardens. Our home for four
nights is the centrally located, 5 star
Pullman King George Square Hotel.
Day 2 (B,L,D) BRISBANE,
SOUTHBANK, REDCLIFFE
We begin our day with a city sights tour
before visiting the unique Southbank
precinct, located on the banks of the
Brisbane River. At your pace, explore
the many attractions including the
Rainforest Walk, Nepalese Pagoda and
Beach, the only beach located within the
middle of an Australian city. Following
lunch we take a drive to the northern
coastal suburb of Redcliffe, former home
to the Bee Gees. Afternoon tea here
overlooking the ocean.
Day 4 (B,L,D) MUSEUM OF BRISBANE,
LONE PINE KOALA SANCTUARY,
DINNER CRUISE
A later start today as we visit the Museum
of Brisbane, located atop the newly
restored Brisbane Town Hall right opposite
our hotel. Following lunch we visit Lone
Pine, Australia’s first and the largest koala
sanctuary. Tonight we take a Dinner Cruise
along the Brisbane River. Enjoy a delicious
Seafood and Carvery buffet, taking in the
sparkling “river lights” as we cruise.
Day 5 (B,L) SPECTACLE GARDEN,
HOME PORTS
Following breakfast we visit the beautiful
Spectacle Garden, with winding path
ways through an ever changing seasonal
display of blooms. An early lunch prior
to returning to Brisbane Airport as we
join homeward flights, completing our
pleasant Brisbane city stay.
Southbank
Day 3 (B,L,D) TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN
Today we journey south to Oxenford,
into the serene Tamborine Mountain,
a plateau located within the scenic
Gold Coast hinterland. At Gallery Walk,
we browse some of the 70+ galleries
and craft shops. Later we arrive at the
Tamborine Skywalk, an elevated walkway
affording tranquil views of the rainforest
below. Lunch here before returning to
Brisbane.
Mount Coot-tha Lookout
7
Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary 7
Adelaide
$2,645
Brisbane
$2,295
Canberra
$2,745
Hobart/Launceston
$2,895
Melbourne
$2,645
Perth*
$3,150
Sydney
$2,595
Single supplement
$ 530
*Pre-tour Brisbane.
to departure.
54
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Noosa Holiday
8 days, departs Jun 11, Jul 24
Queensland
Features
Noosaville
• Beautiful Sunshine Coast Hinterland
MAROOCHYDORE, NOOSAVILLE
Day 5 (B,L,D) EUMUNDI MARKET,
NOOSA RIVER CRUISE
Flights today takes us to the Sunshine
Coast airport where we journey north to
Noosaville and The Islander Resort, our
home for seven nights. Relax and enjoy
the atmosphere or take a walk along the
Noosa River. Later, we meet together for a
welcome drink and dinner nearby.
Day 2 (B,L,D) NOOSA, TEWANTIN
A relaxing morning around Noosaville as we
stroll along famous Hastings Street and visit
Laguna Lookout before catching the Noosa
Ferry to Tewantin. Following lunch, we
explore the small village of Tewantin Village
on the Noosa River before retracing our
steps (on the ferry!) back to Noosaville.
Day 3 (B,L,D) BLACKALL RANGE,
MALENY
We enjoy the stunning scenery of the
Sunshine Coast hinterland and Blackall
Range today, where every road is a
“scenic route”. We travel to Maleny and
enjoy a picnic morning tea at the Baroon
Pocket Dam before spending time at the
Mary Cairncross Park. Experience one
of the world’s great panoramas and an
enchanting, untouched rainforest. After a
light lunch, there is free time in the craft
village of Maleny nestled in rolling hills with
a magnificent backdrop of the Glasshouse
Mountains and Sunshine Coast.
Day 4 (B,L,D) GYMPIE, KENILWORTH
The town of Gympie has an important
and colourful history and we visit their
Gold Mining and Historical Museum. Then
to the charming town of Kenilworth for
lunch (population 300!) and a tour of the
Kenilworth Museum and also the Cheese
Factory where cheeses are handcrafted on
site, taste if you wish.
It’s market day! Eumundi market is situated
in the heart of the historic town of Eumundi.
The iconic and towering heritage-listed
fig trees rise above more than 500 unique
market stalls. Late morning we join a
luncheon cruise aboard the Noosa Queen.
We return mid afternoon to our resort for
some free time.
Day 6 (B,L,D) MOOLOOLABA
The amazing UnderWater World Sealife
Aquarium on Mooloolaba Wharf is home
to thousands of sea creatures. During our
guided tour we walk underwater through
the glass viewing tunnel and see Australia’s
marine life like never before! Lunch here in
the magical setting. During the afternoon
we travel the coastal scenic road as we
return to Noosa.
• Blackall Range Scenic Tour
• Mooloolaba Under Water World Aquarium
• Eumundi Market
• Ginger Factory Tour and Nutworks
Located at the northern end of
the Sunshine Coast, Noosa is a
major Queensland coastal holiday
destination. We stay at The Islander
Resort Noosaville, located across
from the Noosa River foreshore,
perfect for a relaxing stroll. Our
units are ground floor two-bedroom
apartments, with one bathroom,
mostly with walk-in showers. The
air conditioned apartments are fully
self-contained and serviced mid-way
through our stay. Breakfast daily at
Moondoggy’s Cafe. Dinners are at
nearby restaurants.
Day 7 (B,L,D) GINGER FACTORY,
MONTVILLE
Today at the amazing Ginger Factory we
board the authentic cane Ginger train,
taking us through the rainforest and tropical
gardens of this property. We visit Nutworks
displaying the harvesting and packing of
macadamias. We continue to Wappa Dam
then lunch in Mapleton. The afternoon is
spent visiting Montville, the picturesque
artistic centre of the Blackall Range. A
7
Agnes
Waters
special
farewell
dinner tonight.
Glasshouse Mountains
7
Day 8 (B,L) NOOSAVILLE,
MAROOCHYDORE, HOME PORTS
As our relaxing holiday draws to a close,
we transfer to the Sunshine Coast airport at
Maroochydore, to join homebound flights,
completing our relaxing Queensland holiday
in the warm winter sun.
Adelaide
$4,675
Brisbane
$3,975
Canberra
$4,475
Hobart/Launceston
$4,575
Melbourne
$4,325
Perth*
$5,030
Sydney
$4,325
Single supplement
$ 415
* Pre-tour Melbourne.
Islander Resort
Sunshine Coast 7
to departure.
55
Hervey Bay Holiday
Queensland
8 days, departs Jun 14
Hervey Bay
Features
• Australiana Cottage
• Neptune’s Reefworld
• Mary Heritage Town Tour
• Great Sandy Botanic Gardens
• Hervey Bay Historical Village
• World Heritage Fraser Island
• Rainbow Beach
Surrounded by pristine beaches,
Hervey Bay is a peaceful seaside
holiday destination. The Oceans Resort
offers stylish waterfront apartments
set amongst lush tropical gardens,
opposite the historic Urangan Pier. The
beautifully appointed one and two
bedroom self contained apartments
are accessible by a lift, fully serviced
mid way through our stay and most
offer views over Hervey Bay. All
apartments have one bathroom with a
walk in shower. Breakfasts daily at Salt
café and dinners at local restaurants.
Oceans Resort
Day 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS, HERVEY BAY
We fly to the Sunshine Coast Airport
at Maroochydore and travel north to
Maryborough and then Hervey Bay. Our
home for seven nights is the Oceans Resort.
Day 2 (B,L,D) HERVEY BAY
A later start as we visit the interesting Hervey
Bay Regional Art Gallery. Time to stroll along
Urangan Pier, one of the longest in Australia.
Lunch on the pier and time to enjoy the
surrounding parklands. During the afternoon
we visit the Australiana Cottage Crafts and
Herb Farm. A unique experience, see an
impressive range of quality locally crafted
displays, friendly farm animals, native birds,
wildlife and bees. Afternoon tea before we
return to our resort.
Day 3 (B,L,D) FRASER ISLAND
An early start for the full day tour to World
Heritage-listed Fraser Island with untamed
wilderness and unique flora and fauna. Travel
in our air-conditioned purpose-built 4WD
bus with panoramic windows. We view the
majestic Coloured Sands, the pristine waters
of Lake Garawongera and beautiful Eli Creek.
Note: Reasonable fitness is required to access
the 4WD vehicles, which travel over various
terrains. Some walking over uneven surfaces
is also required to enjoy your day on Fraser
Island.
Day 4 (B,L,D) BROOKLYN HOUSE,
NEPTUNE’S REEFWORLD
Fraser Island
7
After a leisurely breakfast we enjoy a guided
tour and Devonshire Tea at Brooklyn House,
the childhood home of Dame Annabelle
Rankin, recognised as a pioneer in Australian
women’s politics. A scenic drive to Neptune’s
Reefworld in Urangan an all-natural
aquarium home to a large variety of beautiful
soft and hard corals, tropical and reef fish,
sharks and large green sea turtles. Lunch
here today prior to returning to Hervey Bay.
Day 5 (B,L,D) MARYBOROUGH
Time to explore this historic town with a
Mary Heritage Town tour. The character of
Maryborough’s early years is preserved in
the collection of classic Queenslander homes,
churches and buildings. We also visit the
Heritage Gateway and Bond Store Museum
before returning to our resort.
56
Day 6 (B,L,D) TIN CAN BAY, RAINBOW
BEACH
Heading south today, we travel to Tin Can
Bay for morning tea. We journey to Rainbow
Beach where we embark on a tour of the
Sandy Straits with views of Fraser Island
and the Lighthouse and, hopefully, some
encounters with the locals – dugongs, turtles,
crabs, stingrays and dolphins. A light lunch
at Double Island Point before returning to
Rainbow Beach and then Hervey Bay.
Day 7 (B,L,D) GREAT SANDY REGION
BOTANIC GARDENS, HERVEY BAY
HISTORICAL VILLAGE
We visit the Great Sandy Region Botanic
Gardens situated on 6,000 year old foreshore
dunes which displays plants of the region
and includes a rainforest area, bush chapel
and orchid house. Light lunch followed by
a visit to the Hervey Bay Historical Village
and Museum. Time to look through the
household items and farming implements
used in the 1800’s. Later we meet for our
farewell dinner together at one of Hervey
Bay’s charming restaurants.
Day 8 (B,L) MAROOCHYDORE, HOME
PORTS
Following breakfast we depart Hervey Bay
arriving at the Sunshine Coast Airport for
an early lunch. We join homebound flights
completing our relaxing and most enjoyable
stayput holiday in Hervey Bay.
Adelaide
$4,975
Brisbane
$4,275
Canberra
$4,775
Hobart/Launceston
$4,875
Melbourne
$4,625
Perth*
$5,330
Sydney
$4,625
Single supplement
$ 380
*Pre-tour Melbourne
to departure.
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
The Discovery Coast
7 days, departs Jun 24
Gladstone
Features
Queensland
• Diverse Regional Art Gallery
Day 5 (B,L,D) LARC TOUR
ROCKHAMPTON, GLADSTONE
Our holiday begins on arrival into
Rockhampton and we travel to the coastal
town of Gladstone, a diverse city with its mix
of tropical tourism and major industry. We
tour the city prior to arriving at our home
for six nights, the Oaks Grand Hotel.
Day 2 (B,L,D) GLADSTONE, TANNUM
SANDS
A relaxing day today as we explore some
of Gladstone’s highlights. We browse the
Regional Art Gallery and Museum and
also the Gladstone Maritime Museum. At
Auckland Hill Lookout enjoy the sweeping
views over Port Curtis and the Gladstone
Marina. Enjoy lunch at the Gladstone Yacht
Club which offers beautiful water views.
During the afternoon we take the short
drive to Tannum Sands for a relaxing stroll
along the Millennium Esplanade on the
foreshore.
Day 3 (B,L,D) CALLIOPE, AGNES
WATERS and TOWN OF 1770
A later start as we travel to the Calliope
River Historical Village, featuring a collection
of original buildings from the region. We
make our way south to Miriam Vale for
lunch. We return to the coast as to reach
the unspoilt “sister” townships of Agnes
Water and 1770, the only town in the world
with a number for a name. The scenic
coastline with clear waters and beautiful
golden beaches are spectacular. At 1770
we view the location where Captain Cook
stepped ashore.
A day tour with a difference as we board
the LARC (Amphibious Craft) to tour the
Bustard Bay coastline. Originally in service
with the US Army, this unique vehicle travels
on land and water and even takes the steep
climb up to the Bustard Head Lighthouse.
We enjoy a picnic lunch and have time to
explore the beautiful beach and sand dunes
at Middle Island. (Please note that there are
approximately eight steps – with handrail –
to access the LARC).
Day 6 (B,L,D) GLADSTONE,
GLADSTONE HARBOUR CURTIS
ISLAND COFFEE CRUISE
A relaxing day with a morning Coffee
Cruise around Gladstone Harbour. This
is the perfect way to view the port in the
comfort of the 'Curtis Endeavour II' and
discover many highlights of the Harbour
and Western Basin. Lunch in Gladstone
followed by time to experience the
tranquil Toondoon Botanic Gardens, which
showcases an outstanding collection of
tropical, sub-tropical and dry rainforests.
Day 7 (B,L) GLADSTONE,
ROCKHAMPTON, HOME PORTS
• Historic town of 1770
• Mount Morgan Gold Mine Tour
• Unique LARC Tour
• Gladstone Harbour Coffee cruise
• Superb Toondoon Botanic Gardens
The Gladstone region, affectionately
known as the Discovery Coast offers
more than 280 days of sunshine a
year and at its heart is the Town of
1770, where Captain Cook stepped
ashore. Home to many idyllic
beaches, museums, coffee harbour
cruise and the unique land/water
LARC tour, it is a splendid 7 days on
the Discovery Coast! We stay at the
newly built Oaks Grand Gladstone in
air conditioned Studio apartments,
all with walk in showers.
Oaks Grand Hotel
We travel back to Rockhampton this
morning to join homebound flights
completing a relaxing holiday along the
Capricorn Coast.
Agnes Waters
7
Day 4 (B,L,D) BILOELA, MT MORGAN
This morning we travel inland to the
rural township of Biloela and visit the
Queensland Heritage Park which includes
"The Silo", housing displays of the areas
primary industries. We depart for Mount
Morgan, a historic township dominated by
a heritage listed former gold mine. Enjoy
lunch here and an informative guided tour
of the region. Mid afternoon we return to
Gladstone.
• Calm Agnes Waters
Town of 1770
8
Adelaide
$4,085
Brisbane
$3,735
Canberra
$4,085
Hobart/Launceston
$4,285
Melbourne
$3,985
Perth*
$4,740
Sydney
$3,885
Single supplement
$ 385
to departure.
57
O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat
Queensland
Features
Islander Noosa Resort
O’Reilly’s Rainforest
Retreat
• Three nights at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat
• Three nights at the Islander Noosa Resort
• World Heritage listed sub-tropical Lamington National Park
• Guided bird and wildlife walks
• Tamborine Mountain
• Scenic Sunshine Coast
• Mooloolaba Underwater World Aquarium
O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat (in
earlier YAH days known as O’Reilly’s
Guest House) is a firm YAH favourite
mountain destination, although
for many repeat visitors nowadays
shorter walks are chosen and more
time is spent relaxing and enjoying
the magnificent scenery! By viewing
contrast a visit to Noosaville and the
Islander Resort (now another YAH
favourite destination) offers a short
coastal contrast as the 2nd half of this
Queensland holiday.
O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat
COOLANGATTA, O’REILLY’S
RAINFOREST RETREAT
Flights from home ports take us to the
Gold Coast Airport at Coolangatta. We
travel into the hinterland to Canungra, our
lunch destination. Some time to explore
this cosy town before our journey takes
us further into Lamington National Park.
We arrive at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat
nestled amongst the subtropical rainforest,
our home for three relaxing nights.
Days 2 and 3 (B,L,D) O’REILLY’S
RAINFOREST RETREAT
Join in the day’s activities or if you wish
relax by the pool with a book from the
O’Reilly’s library. You are free to join as
many or as few of the activities as you
wish. Take part in the morning bird walks,
tree top walk, morning and afternoon
bus excursions to magnificent scenic
lookouts and after dinner, evening photo
presentations and talks.
Day 4 (B,L,D) TAMBORINE MOUNTAIN,
CABOOLTURE, NOOSAVILLE
Departing O’Reilly’s we travel through
the hinterland to Tamborine Mountain.
At Gallery Walk, we browse some of the
70+ galleries and craft shops prior to an
early lunch. We descend the mountain,
travelling through Brisbane to Caboolture.
We visit the Abbey Museum, a unique
archaeological collection. We continue
to the Sunshine Coast and our home for
three nights, the Islander Noosa Resort in
Noosaville.
Day 5 (B,L,D) NOOSAVILLE, TEWANTIN
A relaxing morning around Noosaville as we
stroll along famous Hastings Street and visit
Laguna Lookout before catching the Noosa
Ferry to Tewantin. Following lunch we explore
the small village of Tewantin Village on the
Noosa River before retracing our steps (on
the ferry!) back to Noosaville.
The amazing UnderWater World Sealife
Aquarium on Mooloolaba Wharf is home to
thousands of sea creatures, including colourful
coral fish, playful otters, a giant crab and
weedy sea dragons to name a few! During
our guided tour we walk underwater through
marine life like never before! Lunch here in
this magical setting. During the afternoon we
travel the we return to Noosa via the coastal
scenic road.
Day 7 (B,L) NOOSAVILLE,
MAROOCHYDORE, HOME PORTS
Our relaxing holiday draws to a close as we
transfer to the Sunshine Coast Airport at
Maroochydore, to join homebound flights,
completing our unique Queensland holiday
encompassing both the hinterland and the
coast. Noosa River
7
Islander Noosa Resort
Lamington National Park
7
Adelaide
$4,245
Brisbane
$3,495
Canberra
$4,245
Hobart/Launceston
$4,245
Melbourne
$3,995
Perth*
$4,850
Sydney
$3,895
Single supplement
$ 550
to departure.
58
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Queensland
Maroochydore
Features
• Beautiful Sunshine Coast Hinterland
MAROOCHYDORE
We fly to the Sunshine Coast Airport
where it is a short journey to The Sebel
Maroochydore, our home for seven nights.
Time to settle in and relax at our hotel. Later,
we meet together for a welcome drink and
dinner together.
Day 2 (B,L,D) BLACKALL RANGE,
MALENY
The amazing Underwater World Sealife
Aquarium on Mooloolaba Wharf is home
to thousands of sea creatures. During our
guided tour we walk underwater through
marine life like never before! Lunch here
in the magical setting. This afternoon is at
your leisure.
Day 6 (B,L,D) GYMPIE, KENILWORTH
Today every road is a “scenic route” as we
travel to Maleny and enjoy a picnic morning
tea at the Baroon Pocket Dam before
spending time at the Mary Cairncross Park
an enchanting, untouched rainforest. After
a light lunch there is free time in the craft
village of Maleny nestled in rolling hills with
a magnificent backdrop of the Glasshouse
Mountains and Sunshine Coast. We return to
Maroochydore via Peachester.
The town of Gympie has an important
and colourful history and we visit their
Gold Mining and Historical Museum.
Then to the charming town of Kenilworth
for lunch (population 300!) and a tour
of the Kenilworth Museum and Cheese
Factory where all Kenilworth cheeses are
handcrafted on site. Taste if you wish! We
return to Maroochydore via Nambour
known as the hub of the hinterland.
Day 3 (B,L,D) EUMUNDI MARKET,
NOOSA RIVER CRUISE
Day 7 (B,L,D) MAROOCHY RIVER
CRUISE, REGIONAL BUSHLAND
BOTANIC GARDENS
It’s market day! We visit the iconic Eumundi
market with more than 500 unique stalls.
Late morning we join a luncheon cruise
aboard the Noosa Queen. We return
to Maroochydore along the coast road,
travelling through Sunshine Beach and
Coolum.
Day 4 (B,L,D) GINGER FACTORY,
NUTWORKS, MONTVILLE
Today at the amazing Ginger Factory we
board an authentic cane Ginger train,
taking us through the rainforest and tropical
gardens of this property. We visit Nutworks
displaying the harvesting and packing of
macadamias. We continue to Wappa Dam
then lunch in Mapleton. The afternoon is
spent visiting the picturesque artistic centre
of Montville.
Mooloolaba Underwater World Aquarium
This morning we cruise the smooth waters
of the Maroochy River on the MV Blue
Laguna. Enjoy a BBQ lunch here. In the
afternoon we visit the Maroochy Regional
Bushland Botanic Gardens set in 82 hectares
of eucalypt and riparian forest. A delight to
visit, with a surprise around every corner!
• Blackall Range Scenic Tour
• Mooloolaba Underwater World Aquarium
• Eumundi Market
• Ginger Factory Tour and Nutworks
• Maroochy River Cruise
The Sebel Maroochydore is modern
apartment-style accommodation
situated on Maroochydore Beach
with views of the beach, river and
hinterland. Both one and two
bedroom apartments are fully self
contained with private furnished
balconies offering ocean views.
All apartments feature a spa bath
with walk-in shower. Two bedroom
apartments have two bathrooms,
which makes a perfect option for
two companions to share if desired.
Please note the one bedroom
apartment has one queen sized bed.
The Sebel Maroochydore
Day 8 (B,L) MAROOCHYDORE, HOME
PORTS
After a relaxing breakfast we return to the
Sunshine Coast airport to join homebound
flights concluding a most relaxing holiday in
the warm Queensland winter.
Mary Cairncross Park
Adelaide
$5,295
Brisbane
$4,595
Canberra
$5,095
Hobart/Launceston
$5,195
Melbourne
$4,995
Perth*
$5,650
Sydney
$4,945
Single supplement
$ 565
to departure.
59
Queensland Tropical
Cooktown
Cairns
Mareeba
Features
• Historic Cooktown
• Endeavour River Sunset Cruise
Queensland
• Coffee Works
• Kuranda Village
Day 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS, CAIRNS
• Beautiful Port Douglas
Today we fly north to tropical Cairns. We
explore the city before arriving at our home,
the Cairns Harbour Lights. Our waterfront
accommodation is conveniently located in
the heart of Cairns close the Esplanade and
shopping district.
• Tranquil Palm Cove
• Daintree Wild Zoo
• Amazing Daintree River Cruise
At a leisurely pace explore
Queensland’s Tropical Coast of Cairns
and Cooktown. Overnight in Cairns
before the short flight to Cooktown
for three nights, located on the banks
of the Endeavour River. Cooktown is
picture postcard perfect, brimming
with charm, quaint architecture and
history. Overnight Mareeba in the
Atherton Tablelands before returning
to Cairns for four nights. Experience
the charming village of Kuranda, Palm
Cove and stunning Daintree as we
journey through some of Australia’s
most spectacular tropical coastal
scenery.
Cooktown
7
Day 2 (B,L,D) CAIRNS, COOKTOWN
Following a leisurely breakfast we take
the short scenic flight to Cooktown. The
northern-most point of our holiday, located
on the Endeavour River. Captain Cook
beached the Endeavour here to make
repairs after running aground on a coral
reef. Home for three nights, the Sovereign
Resort Cooktown. Some free time for a stroll
along the waterfront prior to dinner.
60
Enjoy a morning relaxing at the resort
or browse the nearby shops. Later in the
morning we visit the Cooktown Botanic
Gardens. Developed in 1878 on a site
favoured by Chinese charcoal burners the
park flourished until 1910 and was closed
in 1917. Stone pitched waterways and
shaded paths were restored in the late 1980’s
enhancing an area neglected for 70 years.
Following lunch we visit Keating’s Lagoon
bird sanctuary and the beautiful Quarantine
Bay. A highlight this evening as we enjoy a
relaxing sunset cruise on the Endeavour River.
A later dinner follows the cruise.
Day 5 (B,L,D) COOKTOWN, MAREEBA
We depart Cooktown and travel the
Day 3 (B,L,D) COOKTOWN TOWN TOUR,
Cooktown Development Road, with
GRASSY HILL
Explore this delightful easy paced and
historic northern town, in a local vehicle. We
visit the wonderful James Cook Museum,
housed in a stunning nineteenth century
former convent which was opened by
Queen Elizabeth II in 1970. Time to stroll
along the heritage precinct of Charlotte
Street, and enjoy the spectacular views from
Grassy Hill, overlooking the township.
Palm Cove
Four Mile Beach
Day 4 (B,L,D) COOKTOWN, ENDEAVOUR
RIVER SUNSET CRUISE
morning cuppa at Lakeland. We continue
via Mt Molloy to Mareeba on the Atherton
Tableland. Lunch in Mareeba and visit the
interesting Coffee Works Museum showing
the importance of this type of crop with
plantations scattered throughout the
mountains. Then visit the Mareeba Heritage
Museum before arriving at our overnight
home, Jackaroo Motel.
7
7
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Queensland Tropical
Endeavour River
Orchid, Cairns Botanical Gardens
7
Day 6 (B,L,D) KURANDA VILLAGE,
CAIRNS
Day 8 (B,L,D) PALM COVE, PORT
DOUGLAS
This morning we travel to quaint village of
Kuranda. Time to visit the many shops and
charming Butterfly House prior to lunch.
During the afternoon we drive down the
escarpment stopping at some look-outs to
enjoy the views on our way to Cairns. Time
to settle into our home for three nights, the
Cairns Harbour Lights Hotel.
A relaxing day as we visit the beautiful
Palm Cove, one of the Northern Beaches,
a delightful village setting with shaded
grassed areas between the beach and the
village thoroughfare. Morning cuppa and
a stroll here. We continue to Port Douglas.
View Four Mile Beach and wander along
Macrossan Street, lunch in Port Douglas at
the Mirage Marina. During the afternoon we
return to Cairns.
Day 7 (B,L,D) CAIRNS, DAINTREE
Today we head to Mossman for a morning
cuppa before arriving in the spectacular
Daintree. We tour the Daintree Wild Zoo a
sanctuary for an array of wildlife including
rare and endangered species and in the
wetlands there is an abundance of native and
exotic flora. Lunch in the village, before we
quietly glide the Daintree River, maybe spot
a crocodile or tree snake. Beautiful world
heritage country today!
Port Douglas
Green Frog, Daintree
7
Day 9 (B,L) CAIRNS, HOME PORTS
Following a leisurely breakfast we transfer
to Cairns Airport for our homeward flights
completing a most enjoyable tropical
Queensland holiday.
7
Coffee Works
7
Adelaide
$5,575
Brisbane
$5,225
Canberra
$5,575
Hobart/Launceston
$5,675
Melbourne
$5,375
Perth
$5,775
Sydney
$5,325
Single supplement
$ 645
to departure.
61
Cairns Holiday
Cairns
Features
Queensland
• Calm Trinity Inlet Cruise
• Beautiful Palm Cove and Port Douglas
• Picturesque Atherton Rainforest
• Spectacular Kuranda Scenic Railway
and Rainforest Cableway
• Tropical Flecker Botanic Gardens
• Amazing Paronella Park
• Millaa Millaa Falls
The tropical city of Cairns has mild
pleasant temperatures during winter.
The Cairns Harbour Lights is a
modern apartment complex right on
the Marina close to the city centre
and Esplanade. We stay in the stylish
one-bedroom fully self contained
apartments with walk-in showers and
private balconies. Buffet breakfast
each day is conveniently located at
the Hilton Hotel directly opposite
and we enjoy dinners at a selection
of local restaurants or within the
complex.
Cairns Harbour Lights Hotel
Day 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS, CAIRNS
Day 6 (B,L,D) CAIRNS
Today we fly to Cairns, heart of tropical North
Queensland. On arrival we transfer to our
home for seven nights, The Cairns Harbour
Lights Hotel. Our waterfront accommodation
is conveniently located in the heart of Cairns
with easy access to the major shopping areas,
restaurants and attractions. Time to settle in
prior to a welcome drink and then dinner
together.
This morning we visit Doongal Aboriginal Art
Centre, the largest collection in Australia of fine
authentic Aboriginal art. Lunch nearby at the
delightful Flecker Botanic Gardens followed by
a guided tour of the only wet tropical gardens
in Australia. Some free time this afternoon to
relax or explore Cairns.
Day 2 (B,L,D) TRINITY INLET CRUISE,
PALM COVE
A leisurely breakfast before a calm water cruise
along picturesque mangrove-lined Trinity Inlet
followed by lunch. In the afternoon we enjoy
the relaxing atmosphere of Palm Cove, one of
the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Day 3 (B,L,D) YUNGABURRA, ATHERTON
TABLELANDS
An early start this morning as we travel via
Gordonvale to Nerada Tea Plantation for a “tour
and taste”. We continue to Yungaburra where
we visit the amazing Curtain Fig Tree prior to
lunch at Tolga Woodworks Gallery and Café.
During the afternoon we visit the Atherton
Tablelands and the Australian Coffee Plantation.
Day 7 (B,L,D) PORT DOUGLAS
This morning we journey north to Port
Douglas and browse the Cotters Market and
Macrossan Street, the main shopping area
of Port Douglas, before lunch at the Mirage
Marina. This afternoon we visit the pristine
Four Mile Beach before taking a guided tour
of the Rainforest Habitat Wildlife Sanctuary
with three different and unique environments
and home to numerous species from
the surrounding rainforest, wetlands, and
grasslands.
Day 8 (B,L) CAIRNS, HOME PORTS
Our relaxing holiday comes to an end
today as we transfer to Cairns airport to join
homebound flights completing a relaxing
eight days in the tropical north.
Kuranda Scenic Railway
Day 4 (B,L,D) KURANDA
We join the spectacular Kuranda Scenic Railway
and journey into the hinterland, passing through
World Heritage protected tropical rainforest,
beautiful waterfalls and into the breath-taking
Barron Gorge on our way up to the “village
in the rainforest’. At Kuranda we have time
to explore and enjoy a light luncheon before
returning to Cairns on the Skyrail Rainforest
Cableway Gondola. Spanning 7.5 kilometres
over pristine rainforest, we glide just metres
above the ancient rainforest canopy.
Millaa Millaa Falls
62
7
Day 5 (B,L,D) PARONELLA PARK, MILLAA
MILLAA FALLS
Heading south, we travel to the amazing
Paronella Park and have morning tea and lunch
here. Built in the 1930’s on five hectares (13
acres) of rainforest beside Mena Creek Falls, this
fantasy creation of Jose Paronella was a tribute
to his wife and includes a collection of castle-like
buildings magnificent gardens and North
Queensland’s first hydro-electric system. After
lunch we return to Cairns via the picturesque
Millaa Millaa Falls and the village of Malanda.
Adelaide
$4,945
Brisbane
$4,595
Canberra
$4,945
Hobart/Launceston
$5,045
Melbourne
$4,745
Perth
$5,145
Sydney
$4,695
Single supplement
$ 630
to departure.
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Queensland
Tweed Coast Holiday
Currumbin
Coolangatta
Kingscliff
Byron Bay
Features
New South Wales
• Scenic Tweed Coast
COOLANGATTA, KINGSCLIFF
Day 5 (B,L,D) CURRUMBIN WILDLIFE
SANCTUARY, BURLEIGH HEADS
Our relaxing getaway begins on arrival into
Coolangatta Airport where we gather for
lunch before travelling the short distance
to the beachside town of Kingscliff in
the Tweed River Valley. We arrive at our
waterfront home for five nights the Mantra
on Salt Beach. Time to unpack, relax and
explore the resort.
We visit the heritage listed, Currumbin
Wildlife Sanctuary, a Gold Coast institution
since 1947. World renowned for the huge
flocks of Rainbow Lorikeets that visit daily
and home to an amazing onsite animal
hospital and active conservation program.
This afternoon we stroll John Laws Park in
Burleigh Heads, enjoying spectacular views
of the coastline. Afternoon cuppa here
before returning to Kingscliff.
Day 2 (B,L,D) TWEED COAST,
BYRON BAY
This morning we travel the scenic coastline
of the Kingscliff region home to pristine
golden beaches, farms and the hinterland
rainforest. Following lunch we explore
vibrant Byron Bay and visit Cape Byron
Lighthouse, Australia’s most easterly point.
Day 3 (B,L,D) WHALE WATCHING
CRUISE
A highlight today as we search for
Humpback Whales aboard a morning whale
watch cruise. The Southern Queensland
coastline provides one of Australia’s best
locations for spotting these magnificent
animals, all set against the stunning
backdrop of the Gold Coast skyline. We
enjoy a later lunch in Surfers Paradise
before returning to our resort.
Day 6 (B,L) KINGSCLIFF,
COOLANGATTA, HOME PORTS
Following a leisurely breakfast we depart
Kingscliff, returning to Coolangatta for an
early lunch, prior to joining homeward
flights, a relaxing conclusion to our
enjoyable Tweed Coast getaway.
Whale Watching Cruise
7
• Cape Byron Lighthouse
• Whale Watching Cruise
• Murwillumbah and the Tweed Valley
• Tropical Fruit World
• Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
The Tweed River Valley and Tweed
Coast is located almost on the NSW
Queensland border. Moderate
climate, rich fertile soil, typical
northern NSW wide river, plus
friendly, relaxed locals make this
a great location for an easy paced
holiday. Visit Byron Bay, most
easterly point on the Australian
mainland, with its famous Cape
Byron lighthouse, enjoy a whale
watching cruise in one of the best
whale watching areas in Australia
and visit Murwillumbah, located
in the heart of the Tweed Valley.
Relaxing and very enjoyable!
Mantra on Salt Beach
Day 4 (B,L,D) MURWILLUMBAH,
TROPICAL FRUIT WORLD
Today we leave the coast, heading into the
heart of the Tweed Valley to Murwillumbah
where we view the various exhibitions at
the Tweed Regional Gallery. Set amongst
beautiful gardens, the gallery also offers
panoramic views over the Tweed River. An
entertaining afternoon awaits at Tropical
Fruit World. We enjoy a plantation tractor
tour, enjoy fruit tasting and wildlife boat
cruise.
Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary
7
Adelaide
$3,615
Brisbane
$3,115
Canberra
$3,615
Hobart/Launceston
$3,815
Melbourne
$3,465
Perth*
$4,245
Sydney
$3,415
Single supplement
$ 390
to departure.
63
Whitsundays Holiday
Airlie Beach
Features
Queensland
• Whitehaven Beach and Whitsundays Cruise
• Crocodile Safari
• Daydream Island Cruise and visit
• Bowen and North Whitsunday Coast
• Proserpine Historical Museum
• Whitsunday Gold Coffee Plantation
The magical Whitsundays is made
up of 74 wonder islands with pristine
beaches and picturesque coastlines.
We stay at the attractive Coral Seas
Resort, positioned on absolute ocean
front and just a short stroll along a
seaside boardwalk to the Airlie Beach
Village. Our nautical inspired modern
rooms offer garden or sea views
most with walk in showers. Rooms
are serviced daily and accessible by
a lift. Breakfast daily is in the Clipper
Restaurant and most dinners will be
onsite.
PROSERPINE, AIRLIE BEACH
Our tropical getaway begins on arrival at
Whitsunday Airport where we take the short
journey to the coast, arriving at our home
for six nights, Coral Sea Resort overlooking
the Whitsunday Passage. Time to unpack,
relax and take in the delightful scenery prior
to enjoying our first dinner together.
Day 2 (B,L,D) PROSERPINE, AIRLIE
BEACH
Following a leisurely breakfast we travel to
Proserpine and visit the Historical Museum
and tour the Whitsunday Gold Coffee
Plantation. Following lunch we explore the
township of Airlie Beach, the central hub for
the Whitsunday region. Browse the main
street, stroll along Beach Lagoon or the
Bicentennial Boardwalk.
Day 3 (B,L,D) CROCODILE SAFARI
A unique experience as we join a crocodile
safari. Cruise along the mangroves and
estuaries of the Proserpine River, the natural
habitat of approximately 150 saltwater
crocodiles. Following our cruise we make
our way to the Safari Camp, enjoying a BBQ
lunch with billy tea and damper on what
was the site of Proserpine’s river port, some
100 years ago. Following lunch we board
an open air tractor train for a guided tour
through the Goorgana Wetlands before
returning to our resort.
Day 4 (B,L,D) WHITSUNDAYS CRUISE
and WHITEHAVEN BEACH
Daydream Island
A breathtaking highlight today as we
cruise the crystal clear aqua waters of the
Solway Passage to famous Whitehaven
Beach. Voted Queensland’s most beautiful
beach, Whitehaven is also Australia’s
most photographed and is a must see
destination. On arrival we access the beach
directly via an easy access boarding ramp.
Some time here to explore, take a swim or
simply relax on board our vessel.
Day 5 (B,L,D) BOWEN
Today we travel to Bowen, located at the
northern reaches of the Whitsundays Coast.
Bowen is a picturesque seaside township
that has one of Australia’s best climates, with
a daily average of eight hours sunshine. On
arrival into Bowen, we visit the Big Mango,
a unique attraction, before taking in the
wonderful views from Flagstaff Hill Lookout.
We explore the township, including viewing
some of the 25 murals that are displayed
throughout Bowen’s streets. Following
lunch we visit Bowen Museum and Mullers
Lagoon, picturesque parkland in the centre
of town and home to 176 species of birdlife.
Day 6 (B,L,D) DAYDREAM ISLAND
A later start today as we take the short but
scenic cruise across to Daydream Island.
Some time to visit the Living Reef, one of
the world’s largest man made coral reefs,
before enjoying a leisurely island lunch.
Explore the resort further prior to returning
to the mainland. Tonight we enjoy our
farewell dinner at a local restaurant.
Day 7 (B,L) AIRLIE BEACH, HOME
PORTS
This morning there is time to stroll the
beach, browse the main streets before an
early lunch. We transfer to the Whitsunday
Airport to join homeward flights completing
our tropical getaway.
Adelaide
$4,645
Brisbane
$4,395
Canberra
$4,645
Hobart/Launceston
$4,745
Melbourne
$4,545
Perth*
$5,200
Sydney
$4,545
Single supplement
$ 540
* Pre tour Melbourne
Coral Sea Resort
64
to departure.
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
South Australia
RAPTOR DOMAIN BIRDS OF PREY, KANGAROO ISLAND
8
65
South Australia
Kangaroo Island Holiday
Kangaroo Island
Features
Day 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS, ADELAIDE,
KINGSCOTE
• Island Pure Dairy
• KI Spirits
• Flinders Chase NP – The Remarkables
• Seal Bay guided walk
• Raptor Domain Birds of Prey
• Andermel Marron Farm
• Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Oil Distillery
Kangaroo Island is full of hidden
treasures and offers unique local
produce. With stunning coastlines
and diverse wildlife and national
parks, the island is a sanctuary for
native flora and fauna now extinct on
the mainland. We stay at the Aurora
Ozone Hotel in the main township
of Kingscote, on the foreshore
overlooking Nepean Bay. Our well
appointed modern spacious Executive
Rooms all have walk in showers and
are accessible by lift.
Aurora Ozone Hotel
10
Today we fly to Adelaide and then to
Kingscote on Kangaroo Island. We
transfer to the Aurora Ozone Hotel, our
home for the next five nights. Time to
settle in before we view the entertaining
Pelican show at Kingscote Wharf, prior to
dinner at our hotel.
Day 2 (B,L,D) STOKES BAY, ISLAND
PURE DAIRY, KI SPIRITS
Some free time this morning to enjoy the
township of Kingscote. Late morning we
visit Stokes Bay Bush Garden and enjoy a
picnic lunch (weather permitting). During
the afternoon we view Island Pure Dairy
with a dairy flock of 1,500 milking sheep.
The centre produces world class yoghurt
and cheeses and tastings are offered,
purchase if you wish. We return via KI
Spirits a local company making handmade liqueurs with the opportunity to
taste and purchase.
66
We journey across to the quaint township
of Penneshaw and visit the Maritime and
Folk Museum. Lunch is at the historic
waterfront Penneshaw Hotel. As we return
to Kingscote we call in to Clifford’s Honey
Farm, and meet the local farmers who
are proud to show their produce. At the
nearby Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Oil Distillery,
we have a guided tour followed by
afternoon tea.
Day 6 (B,L) KINGSCOTE, ADELAIDE,
HOME PORTS
Following breakfast we join our morning
flight to Adelaide and then home ports,
completing a most enjoyable holiday on
charming Kangaroo Island.
Andermel Marron Farm
11
Day 3 (B,L,D) HANSON BAY KOALA
PARK, FLINDERS CHASE NP, THE
REMARKABLES
This morning at Hanson Bay we take a
koala viewing walk followed by morning
tea. We continue to Flinders Chase
National Park for lunch and to view the
highlights of this spectacular park. See
The Remarkables, a huge rocky outcrop
of weather sculptured granite boulders
perched 75 metres above the sea. Cape
de Couedic features Admirals Arch,
home to a large colony of New Zealand
fur seals. A memorable day!
Day 4 (B,L,D) SEAL BAY, RAPTOR
DOMAIN, ANDERMEL MARRON
FARM, HOPE COTTAGE
Remarkable Rocks
Day 5 (B,L,D) PENNESHAW,
CLIFFORDS HONEY FARM, EMU
RIDGE DISTILLERY
We visit Seal Bay and join a guided walk
on the beach, home to around 500 sea
lions. There are also good views from the
cliff top boardwalk. Morning tea follows
at Raptor Domain, see the amazing
“Birds of Prey” free flight presentation.
Following the show we travel to the
Andermel Marron Farm where freshwater
crayfish (Marron) are farmed and
excellent wines under the “Two Wheeler”
label are produced. Enjoy tastings prior
to a delicious lunch. Later we visit Hope
Cottage Museum a fascinating insight
into Kangaroo Island’s heritage.
Seal Bay
Adelaide
$3,445
Brisbane
$4,145
Canberra
$4,145
Hobart/Launceston
$4,145
Melbourne
$3,845
Perth
$4,145
Sydney
$3,945
Single supplement
$ 420
to departure.
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Northern
Territory
KATA TJUTA
67
Northern
Territory
ALICE SPRINGS and ULURU
Alice Springs
Uluru
Features
• Historic Old Telegraph Station
• Alice Springs Desert Park
• Amazing Sounds of Starlight Show
• Scenic West MacDonnell Ranges
• Iconic Uluru and Kata Tjuta
• Sounds of Silence Sunset Dinner
We journey into breathtaking Central
Australia with 3 nights in both Alice
Springs and Uluru. We explore ancient
wonders, discover the legacy of our
early settlers and appreciate how
sacred this land is to our indigenous
people. Highlights of The Alice include
the picturesque Simpson Gap and
Standley Chasm. At Yulara we stay
at the impressive 5 star Sails in the
Desert Resort, tour the magnificent
Uluru and Kata Tjuta and experience
magical dining at the Sounds of
Silence.
Uluru
West MacDonnell Ranges
Day 1 (L,D) HOME, ALICE SPRINGS,
ROYAL FLYING DOCTOR SERVICE
Today we fly to Alice Springs enjoying lunch
on arrival. During the afternoon visit the new
Royal Flying Doctor Service tourist facility.
Later we arrive at our home for three nights,
the Chifley Alice Springs Hotel, situated on
the banks of the famous Todd River with its
magnificent river red gums.
Day 2 (B,L,D) ALICE SPRINGS,
TELEGRAPH STATION, DESERT PARK,
SOUNDS of STARLIGHT SHOW
This morning take in the panoramic view
from Anzac Hill prior to visiting to the
Old Telegraph Station, gain a sense of
the tyranny of distance facing those who
established the telegraph line in the late
1800’s. We arrive at the Alice Springs Desert
Park for lunch and then time to view the
many wildlife exhibits. A special event
tonight as we enjoy the Sounds of Starlight
Theatre performance, a musical and visual
journey of the outback.
Day 3 (B,L,D) WEST MACDONNELL
RANGES
We spend today exploring the spectacular
ancient landscape of the West MacDonnell
Ranges. We pause at the John Flynn
Memorial in memory of the missionary who
founded the Royal Flying Doctor Service.
View the picturesque Standley Chasm, an 80
metre chasm formed by flood waters over
millions of years, the Ochre Pits, source of
the coloured clays used by aboriginal people
on ceremonial occasions, Ellery Creek Big
Hole, a spectacular waterhole in the mighty
Ellery Creek and Simpson Gap, a prominent
and significant waterhole in the Ranges.
Picnic lunch today in the Ranges.
Day 4 (B,L,D) ALICE SPRINGS, Mt
CONNOR, YULARA
We depart Alice Springs and travel the
Stuart Highway and Erldunda before joining
the Lasseter Highway, stopping for lunch
at Mt Ebenezer Roadhouse. We view the
magnificent Mt Connor as we journey to
Yulara. Our home for three nights is the 5
star Sails in the Desert Resort.
Day 5 (B,L,D) KATA TJUTA (The Olgas),
ULURU, CULTURAL CENTRE
Today we explore the magnificent red centre.
Travel to Kata Tjuta (The Olgas), a group of
36 massive, domed rock formations. Like
Uluru, this is a sacred site. Many dreamtime
legends are associated with the area and it
is still the site of spiritual ceremonies. Visit
the Uluru-Kata Tjuta Cultural Centre, learn
about the park and Anangu culture, the
traditional owners of the region who have
history dating back tens of thousands of
years. Following lunch we tour the base of
the magnificent Uluru (Ayers Rock) and stop
for photo opportunities along the way.
Day 6 (B,L,D) AYERS ROCK RESORT,
SOUNDS OF SILENCE SUNSET DINNER
Early risers may wish to view the sunrise over
Uluru, sure to be a magical sight, before
breakfast. A leisurely day at the resort which
offers several onsite activities. Lunch at
the Ilkari Restaurant. There is time to take
a scenic flight over Uluru if you wish (own
expense, subject to weather conditions).
For our final night we enjoy the amazing
Sounds of Silence experience where we dine
outdoors as the sun sets over nearby Uluru.
As we gaze at the brilliant night sky, listen
to legends and stories as told by the stars.
Definitely a night to remember!
Day 7 (B,L) YULARA, HOME PORTS
Our holiday draws to a close as we transfer
to Ayers Rock Airport for our homeward
flights completing an awe-inspiring of
Central Australia.
Adelaide
$4,875
Brisbane
$4,875
Canberra
$5,075
Hobart/Launceston
$5,075
Melbourne
$4,875
Perth
$5,075
Sydney
$4,875
Single supplement
$ 795
to departure.
68
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Western Australia
ROTTNEST ISLAND
69
Broome Holiday
Broome
Western Australia
Features
• Tropical Broome
Day 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS, BROOME
• Beautiful Cable Beach sunset dinner
Flights from home ports takes us to the
beach resort town of Broome. Lunch on
arrival prior to arriving at the Oaks Broome
Resort, our home for the next seven nights.
Time to settle in and relax before dinner at
the Resort.
• Interesting Willie Creek Pearl Farm
• Broome and beaches scenic flight
• Derby Jetty
• Unusual Boab Prison Tree
• Remarkable Bird Observatory
At the southernmost tip of the rugged
Kimberley region is tropical Broome.
During our stay enjoy a scenic Flight,
visit the interesting Willie Creek Pearl
Farm, day tour to outback Derby
and dinner on the magnificent Cable
Beach. We stay at the contemporary
Oaks Resort set amongst tranquil
gardens just one street back from
Roebuck Bay. Our ground floor air
conditioned Hotel Rooms have walk in
showers and lift access. Breakfast daily
and most dinners will be in the 1861
Restaurant.
Oaks Broome Resort
Day 2 (B,L,D) DEEP WATER PORT,
CHINATOWN, HISTORY MUSEUM,
SUNSET DINNER
This morning we visit the Broome Deep
Water Port located in Roebuck Bay then
continue to Chinatown with time to browse
the shops. Following lunch we visit the
Broome Historical Museum featuring many
exhibits based around the local Pearling
industry. There is time back at our resort
before enjoying the famous Broome sunset
with dinner overlooking Cable Beach.
Day 3 (B,L,D) WILLIE CREEK PEARL
FARM, JAPANESE CEMETERY
Today we tour the Willie Creek Pearl Farm,
located on a picturesque tidal estuary.
Watch oyster seeding and cruise the calm
waters to observe pearl oysters up close.
Lunch here before returning to Broome
to view the Japanese Cemetery where
some 700 divers are buried, such was the
dangerous occupation of pearl diving.
Day 4 (B,L,D) SCENIC FLIGHT,
MANGO FARM
Boab Prison Tree
70
A highlight today as we take a scenic flight
over the magnificent coastline of Town
Beach, Cable Beach, Roebuck Bay, Willie
Creek and Gantheaume Point. Late morning
we drive out of town to The Mango Place,
a delightful property, whilst eating lunch
outdoors under the shady trees, see the
extensive range of unique mango products.
Day 6 (B,L,D) BIRD OBSERVATORY, MT
ROMANCE SANDALWOOD GALLERY
A morning with a difference as we “go
bush” to visit the Broome Bird Observatory
adjacent to the shores of Roebuck Bay.
Recognised as one of the top five wader
bird locations in the world with over 300
species observed. We enjoy a cuppa and
guided walk, hear of the variety of birds
that are either permanent or migratory in
the Broome Region. Lunch back in Broome
followed by a visit to the Mount Romance
Sandalwood gallery and retail outlet.
Day 7 (B,L,D) COURTHOUSE MARKET,
GANTHEAUME POINT
Today is Broome market day, located in the
shade of the trees surrounding the historic
Courthouse. Browse the varied stalls selling
local produce. After lunch we travel to
Gantheaume Point, spectacular coloured
rocks with the blue waters as a backdrop
make this a photographer’s delight. Time
here for a stroll to absorb the beautiful
surroundings.
Day 8 (B,L) BROOME, HOME PORTS
This morning we transfer to Broome Airport
for our homeward flights, completing our
relaxing holiday in the north-western corner
of Australia.
Willie Creek Pearl Farm
Day 5 (B,L,D) DERBY
Adelaide
$5,545
A longer day today as we travel into the
Western Kimberley to Derby, which is
situated on a narrow peninsula and has
Australia’s highest tidal range, up to 12
metres. We stop at the Boab Prison Tree,
Myalls Bore the longest cattle trough in the
world, and finally Old Derby Gaol. Following
lunch on the historic Derby Jetty there is
time here to watch the tidal flow before we
return to Broome.
Brisbane
$5,545
Canberra
$5,745
Hobart/Launceston
$5,745
Melbourne
$5,545
Perth
$5,145
Sydney
$5,545
Single supplement
$ 685
to departure.
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Fremantle Holiday
Western Australia
Fremantle
Features
Day 1 (L,D) HOME PORTS, PERTH,
FREMANTLE
Our relaxing west coast getaway begins on
arrival into Perth Airport where we make the
short journey south to Fremantle and our
home for the next seven nights, Tradewinds
Hotel. Some time to unpack and unwind
prior to dinner.
Day 2 (B,L,D) FREMANTLE
This morning we board the Fremantle Tram
for a tour of this historic port town followed
by morning tea. Lunch at the bustling
Fishing Boat Harbour and during the
afternoon we visit the Maritime Museum,
home to Australia II, the America’s Cup
winning yacht.
Day 3 (B,L,D) SWAN RIVER CRUISE,
PERTH MINT
Step back in time this morning as we
visit the Fremantle Roundhouse, the first
permanent building in the Swan River
Colony. We then enjoy a scenic cruise
along the Swan River to Perth. We take
High Tea at the Perth Mint Café, prior to a
guided tour of the Mint where we view the
traditional Gold Pour.
Day 4 (B,L,D) MANDURAH
A leisurely day as we travel south, along the
coastline to Mandurah, the second largest
city in Western Australia. Morning tea in
this charming town before our dolphin
and canal cruise, on the calm inland water
ways of Mandurah, an area abundant with
wild dolphins. Lunch at the Dolphin Quays
Marina and then some free time to browse
before returning to Fremantle.
Day 6 (B,L,D) HILLARYS BOAT
HARBOUR, CAVERSHAM WILDLIFE
PARK
• Fremantle Tram Tour
We return to Perth passing through
the coastal suburbs of Cottesloe and
Scarborough to Hillarys Boat Harbour.
Some time to browse before we visit AQWA,
an aquarium themed as “an underwater
journey along the Western Australian
coastline”. Following lunch we travel inland
to Caversham Wildlife Park, a large private
showcase of Australian Wildlife. Take
the opportunity to meet a koala, feed a
kangaroo or pat a possum, if you wish.
• Interesting Perth Mint
Day 7 (B,L,D) FREMANTLE MARKETS,
KINGS PARK
A leisurely morning as we visit the Fremantle
markets, a Fremantle institution since 1897.
Browse the 150 stalls offering a wide variety
of local produce, unique works by local
artisans and authentic indigenous art. Later
we arrive at scenic Kings Park and Botanic
Garden. Lunch here followed by a stroll in
the gardens enjoying the magnificent views
over Perth City and the Swan River. The
remainder of the afternoon is at your leisure.
• Unique Rottnest Island
• Mandurah Dolphin Cruise
• Beautiful Kings Park Located at the mouth of the Swan
River, lies the vibrant port city of
Fremantle with a predominantly
nautical history. A perfect base to
explore the many attractions the
region offers and our easy paced
touring including the Fremantle
Tram Tour, Swan River and
Mandurah Dolphin Cruises and the
unique Rottnest Island. We stay
at the heritage listed Tradewinds
Hotel in Studio Rooms all with walk
in showers and lift access. Breakfast
daily and most dinners will be
onsite.
Day 8 (B,L) FREMANTLE, PERTH,
HOME PORTS
Following breakfast we return to Perth
Airport, with fond memories of our
enjoyable visit to Australia’s westernmost
capital.
Rottnest Island
Day 5 (B,L,D) ROTTNEST ISLAND
Eleven kilometres off the coast of Fremantle
lies Rottnest Island, with a rich and cultural
heritage. Home to spectacular white sandy
beaches, rocky outcrops and unique wildlife.
We take the Rottnest Ferry from Fremantle
where we circumnavigate the island on a
guided tour, stroll the boardwalk at West
End, enjoy a relaxing lunch and hopefully
spot a Quokka or two. We return to
Fremantle mid afternoon.
• Swan River Cruise
Mandurah Dolphin Cruise
Adelaide
$4,845
Brisbane
$4,945
Canberra
$5,045
Hobart/Launceston
$5,145
Melbourne
$4,795
Perth
$4,145
Sydney
$4,845
Single supplement
$ 790
to departure.
71
General Info
72
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Frequently Asked Questions
How much luggage are we allowed to bring?
One medium-size suitcase per person, the
sum of its length/width/height not to exceed
140cm (56”). Maximum weight of all luggage
not to exceed 20kg (44lbs). One piece of
hand luggage may be carried onboard the
coach. We prefer couples to bring two smaller
cases, rather than one large case.
How many people will I be travelling with?
YAH operates with a maximum of 20
passengers.
Does YAH rotate seating on the coach?
All passengers change seats daily throughout
the tour, on an allocated basis.
I suffer from travel sickness. Can I sit
permanently in the front part of the coach?
A doctor’s certificate confirming travel
sickness is required prior to consideration
of permanent front half of the coach seating
allocation.
When will I receive my travel documents?
Final documentation is sent from our office
approximately 10 days prior to departure.
Do I need to advise YAH of any mobility
issues?
Yes, you do need to advise us of any mobility,
medical conditions or special needs so that
we can ensure the tour you have booked is
suitable for you. The number of passengers
per tour bringing fold-up walkers is limited
due to storage space. You must advise us
when booking if you are bringing a walker.
Passengers requiring special assistance must
be accompanied by an able-bodied travelling
companion capable of providing all necessary
assistance. YAH personnel cannot be
responsible for providing individual special
assistance and it is unfair to expect other
passengers to fill this role.
Do I need travel insurance?
Travel insurance is highly recommended.
Approval may be subject to acceptance of
cover for age and/or for pre-existing medical
conditions and additional premiums may be
payable. We recommend travel insurance be
purchased at time of booking for maximum
protection.
I am travelling alone. Is this okay?
Passengers travelling on their own are most
welcome on all tours. As we travel in small
groups in the company of others of similar
ages and interests, making new friends is easy.
Do I need to bring water on tour with me?
YAH will supply you with bottled water
throughout your tour.
What meals are included in the tour price?
All meals are included in the tour price. Breakfasts
include a selection of cold and cooked items,
juices, tea and coffee. Lunches are usually light
and dinners are three courses (entrée, main
and dessert) from an a la carte, buffet or group
menu with choices. Beer, wine and soft drink
are included with your evening meal. On some
occasions special highlight dinners are included as
listed in the itinerary.
Do you cater for special medical dietary
requirements?
YAH endeavours to cater for most common or
medical dietary requirements, e.g. gluten free.
Please advise any special dietary requirements at
the time of booking and we will ensure that all
information is passed on to our suppliers. Please
note that in some remote locations, options may
be limited. Although every effort will be made,
we cannot guarantee that requests will be met in
all instances.
If my tour is cancelled, will I get my money back?
If YAH cancels a departure, you will be given the
opportunity to transfer to another tour or receive
a full refund including travel insurance.
What happens if I cancel my tour due to
unforeseen circumstances?
Depending on when you cancel your tour, various
fees apply, as set out at the back of our brochure or
on our booking form. We suggest travel insurance
for maximum protection.
Are my flights included?
Yes, your airfares are included from all cities listed
in the brochure where applicable. Please contact
our office for fares from other locations.
Can I extend my stay?
Yes, you can extend your stay before the tour
commences or after the tour ends subject to the
availability of flights, however in some cases an
airfare surcharge may apply. We can also assist if
you require pre and/or post tour accommodation.
Please enquire at the time of booking
What level of fitness is required?
Normal mobility and self-independence abilities
apply and this includes getting on and off the
coach without assistance.
What is the difference between a twin room and
a double room?
A twin room has two separate beds, this may be
two singles, two doubles or one single and one
queen. A double room may feature just one bed
and this may be a double, queen or king size bed.
Are there any laundry facilities?
Most motels have guest laundry facilities or
laundry service. Fees may apply.
73
Conditions of Travel
WHAT IS INCLUDED: Fares include transfers, ship, air
or rail travel, comfort-plus Young at Heart coach travel,
with seat belts for all passengers, 3 to 4 star quality
accommodation, all meals (except where indicated), most
morning and afternoon teas, admittances, cruises, scenic
flights, etc. as per the detailed itinerary. Items of a personal
nature, drinks, phone calls, etc. are not included in your
fare. Melbourne Metropolitan home/hotel pick up and
return is included, except where stated. MEALS: Meals
included in your fare are coded at the beginning of each
day of the itinerary. B = cooked breakfast, L = light lunch,
D = 3 course dinner, with choices.
NOT INCLUDED: Items of a personal nature including
postcards, photos, phone calls, souvenirs etc.
LUXURY COACH TRAVEL: The Young at Heart group
operate a fleet of luxury small coaches. Large reclining seats,
seat belts for all, individually controlled air conditioning,
air bag suspension, panoramic windows, curtains, PA and
music system. For some stayput holidays local vehicles may
be used and whilst we endeavor to provide a similar luxury
coach, variations may occur.
BOOKINGS: Bookings by phone, mail, email, online or in
person are all welcome, as are bookings through your local
travel agent.
OFFICE HOURS: Monday to Friday 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m
(closed public holidays).
Postal address: PO Box 172, Forest Hill, Vic 3131
Street address: 63 Mahoneys Road, Forest Hill, Vic 3131
Phone: (03) 9875 1411 or 1800 815 906
DEPOSIT AND FINAL PAYMENT
Deposit: As set out in the brochure is due within 7 days to
confirm your booking.
Final payment: The balance is normally due within 60 days
prior to departure (or within 7 days for bookings closer
than 60 days to departure). For Norfolk Island, Lord Howe,
Fiji and New Zealand holidays balance is due 90 days prior
to departure. Refer to the relevant booking form for full
details.
Accepted payment types: Cash, Eftpos, Direct Deposit,
MasterCard, Visa or cheques made payable to Young at
Heart Travel are all welcome. A 1% surcharge is added to
payments made by credit card.
BOOKING AMENDMENTS:
Any amendments made by you, apart from changes to
minor personal information will be subject to a $100
administration fee per change, plus any increase in cost.
Please note that even minor name change alterations may
incur additional costs.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Cancellation prior to the date final payment is due:
All money paid will be refunded, less a $200 per person
cancellation fee and less any non refundable airfares.
Cancellation after final payment is due and received:
•
30 days and over prior to departure:
- 50% retained by Young at Heart Travel
•
Between 29 and 14 days inclusive prior to departure: - 75% retained by Young at Heart Travel
•
Under 14 days prior to departure, non attendance or non completion of tour: - NIL refund
Cancellation policy for Norfolk Island and New Zealand
tours varies from above, please refer to the relevant booking
form for full details.
Please note: Where Early Bird saving offers are used, the
cancellation policy applies from the Early Bird savings due
date for final payments.
LAST MINUTE FARES
On occasion, Young at Heart Travel offer last minute fares
usually at very short notice. These last minute fares only
apply to new bookings received following the offer and are
not retrospective.
AIRLINE RESCHEDULING
Airline schedules are subject to change which may affect
joining/departing arrangements and consequently that day’s
itinerary. Any additional costs incurred, including overnight
accommodation and transfers are at passenger’s expense.
TRAVEL INSURANCE CAN AVOID LOSSES DUE TO
CANCELLATION
Travel insurance is highly recommended. It is available from
Young at Heart Travel and other travel insurance sellers.
We recommend travel insurance be purchased at time of
booking for maximum protection. *Please note you may not
be able to make a claim for non-travelling family members
who have a pre-existing medical condition.
74
CONDITIONS OF TRAVEL:
1. Young at Heart Travel makes all arrangements for its tours
using the services of other providers of accommodation, air
and ground transport, meals, attractions, both individuals
and companies. In these conditions, all such providers are
referred to as “the principal”.
2. The Company acts as agent for all principals and the
Company shall not be liable for any loss, delay or damage
suffered by a passenger or his/her property, in consequence
of any act, omission, default or negligence by any principal
or any subcontractor of any principal.
3. Neither Young at Heart Travel or any servant or agent
shall be liable for any loss, delay or damage suffered by a
passenger or his/her property, in consequence of any act,
omission, default or negligence of Young at Heart Travel, its
servants or agents.
4. Passengers agree to indemnify Young at Heart Travel, its
servants or agents against any claim, demand or judgment or
damage made or awarded for all actions arising from items
1 to 3 above.
5. The tour proposal set out in this booklet and the
passenger’s acceptance by completion of a booking form
creates an agreement between Young at Heart Travel and
the passenger subject to the law of the State of Victoria.
Completion of the booking form together with the
passenger’s signature, verifies acceptance of these terms and
conditions.
6. Young at Heart Travel (and its principals) reserve the
right to alter any published itinerary if Young at Heart Travel
believes such alteration is in the best interests of passenger
safety, wellbeing or enjoyment.
7. Young at Heart Travel and its contract operators accept
no responsibility for delays or financial losses caused by the
inability of any other operator used in this holiday to provide
services described due to cessation of business, bankruptcy,
delayed flight arrivals, justified delay or any other reason.
8. Young at Heart Travel reserves the right to substitute
vehicles of a lesser standard should this be unavoidable due
to mechanical failure, delay or any other genuine reason.
9. Young at Heart Travel accepts no responsibility for the
behaviour of any employee, representative or agent of any
motel, attraction, café, restaurant or similar venue associated
with this tour or for events arising from such behaviour.
10. Special dietary requirements are requested from
accommodation and meal providers, however Young at Heart
Travel cannot guarantee that requests will always be met.
11. No passenger will be permitted to commence or
continue this tour if, in the opinion of Young at Heart Travel
or its agents, their physical or mental condition makes them
unable to care for themselves or their behaviour becomes
objectionable to other passengers. Young at Heart Travel will
not be responsible for any additional expense due to any
such curtailment.
12. Receipts for deposits or final payments from travel
agents do not constitute payment to Young at Heart Travel
until such money is received by and available to Young at
Heart Travel.
13. Young at Heart Travel does not determine the amount
(if any) and is not responsible for service fees charged by
travel agents or any refund thereof.
14. Booking conditions are correct as at 1st March 2016
and are subject to change subsequent to that date.
15. The Terms and Conditions which apply to your booking
are those printed on your Young at Heart Travel booking
form.
16. Current Terms and Conditions are available on the
Young at Heart Travel website.
17. Itineraries in this brochure are correct as at 1st March
2016. However, these are subject to change due to various
reasons including attraction changes or closures, opening
days and time variations, train, ferry and other timetable
amendments, changes in accommodation, service and quality
due to ownership and/or management changes.
18. Prices shown in this brochure are correct as at 1st
March 2016 and Young at Heart Travel reserves the right to
amend prices as circumstances change. Interstate airfares
are subject to increase until the relevant deposit has been
paid. Fully paid tours are not subject to any increase.
19. A minimum number of bookings is required for the tour
to be financially viable and to achieve an enjoyable group
atmosphere. If such numbers are not achieved, passengers
may at their option receive a full refund or transfer to
another tour.
Phone: (03) 9875 1411
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended by Young at Heart Travel for all clients.
Purchase of travel insurance avoids possible loss of monies paid due to unforeseen and
unavoidable circumstances involving any passengers, family and travelling companions.
It is important to supply all relevant information, especially medical conditions, when
applying for a policy so that the insurance company can accurately determine whether to
offer insurance and if a premium loading will apply. Incorrect information is likely to lead
to non payment of any claim.
Due to the operation in Australia of Medicare and private health insurance, it is not
possible to be covered for medical expenses for Australian-based holidays, however
additional travel costs for yourself or your travelling companion may be met under a
comprehensive plan.
Please understand that Young at Heart Travel is not an insurance company. Should you
decide not to purchase travel insurance then you are travelling at your own risk and, in the
event that you are unable to join the tour or need to leave the tour before its completion,
the cancellation policy as outlined on page 74 of this brochure and on the YAH booking
form will apply.
* Please note: You may not be able to make a claim for non-travelling family members
who have a pre-existing medical condition.
Photos courtesy of
1. Tourism Tasmania and Rob Burnett
2. Tourism Tasmania & Pete Mattila
3. Tourism Tasmania & Kathryn Leahy
4. Jervis Bay Wild
5. Roberto Seba
6. Matthew Taylor/Tourism & Events Queensland
7. Tourism and Events Queensland
8. Katrina Elliott Photography
9. Greg Snell – South Australia’s Wildlife Caretaker
10. Julie Fletcher
11. Tourism Australia
12. Destination NSW, David Hill
75
AVAILABLE FROM YOUR
LOCAL TRAVEL AGENT
Pack your bags... we’ll do the rest
Postal address: PO Box 172 Forest Hill 3131
Visit us at: 63 Mahoneys Road
Forest Hill Vic 3131
Phone (03) 9875 1411
Interstate callers - 1800 815 906

Features - Young at Heart holidays

Transcription

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