For the Golfer in You

Finding a holiday destination to satisfy everyone in the family is difficult. Especially when one person’s activity requires a space of land fit to build multiple houses. Luckily now there are places which accommodate for the golfer as well as everyone else at an absolute impeccable standard. Perfect for the whole family, groups, just everyone!

Cyprus Lakes Resort, New South Wales

 

Cyprus Lakes Resort is situated in the middle of the picturesque Hunter Valley. It is a golf and spa sanctuary, nestled in the vineyards surrounded by Australian bushland and mature gardens. It has countless activities to cater for everyone’s agenda including tennis courts, horse riding, a swimming pool, biking riding and hot air ballooning. To indulge yourself try the Golden Door Spa which is the ultimate recovery, renewal and rejuvenation experience.

To satisfy the golf enthusiast there is a separate championship class Cyprus Lakes Golf & Country Club. It has an 18-hole course as well as other courses and lessons are available. An annual competition, Jack Newton Celebrity Classic, is held which has been running for 5 years already.

There are multiple opportunities to explore the Hunter Valley through the Shadow Wine Country Tours which looks at the history, the cellars and vineyards as well as other tours which go through all the wineries.

View at Cyrus Lakes Resort, New South Wales

Mercure Kooindah Waters Golf and Spa Resort, New South Wales

Mixing business and pleasure is difficult however at the newly built Mercure Kooindah Waters Golf and Spa Resort it has been taken care of.

Situated on 95-hectares of bushland it has every facility or service possible for you to enjoy your stay whilst covering business. It has an indoor heated lap pool, outdoor swimming pool, spa, sauna, gymnasium, tennis courts, a children's playground and of course an 18-hole golf course. This makes it a family friendly and entertaining resort for everyone.

To receive the full pampering package there is the award winning Endota Day Spa. Its signature ‘drenched’ treatment incorporates local resources and natural methods such as river salt and the desert lime body cleaner.

Satisfy your tastebuds at the Karinyas Restaurant and Wine Bar overlooking the stunning championship golf course and wetlands.

Mercure Kooindah Waters Golf and Spa Resort, New South Wales

 

Peppers Moonak Links Resrt, Victoria

Less than an hour from Melbourne Peppers Moonak Links Resort is the perfect place for the golf enthusiast who wants to combine luxury and relaxation. Settled within the Mornington Peninsular, it is a area of sheer beauty to explore with over 50 wineries, countless beaches, Cape Schanck National Park and picturesque villages everywhere.

If one golf course wasn’t enough Moonak has 2 championship 18-hole courses to accommodate for all levels. It hosted the 2005 Australian Open Championship.

For the more adventurous there is horse riding along the famous Gunnamatta beach or swimming with the dolphins in Port Phillip Bay. After a long day on the green you can enjoy local produce cuisine at Pebbles Restaurant which prepares an Australian menu whilst overlooking the pristine course. For the absolute experience Moonak has an Endota Spa to completely relax, rejuvenate and pamper you.

Peppers Moonak Links Resort, Victoria

Bonville Lodge Luxury Bed and Breakfast, New South Wales

Want a relaxed golfing holiday where everyone can come including the 4 legged friends then Bonville Lodge Luxury Bed and Breakfast has exactly that.

This bed and breakfast is definitely not one to compensate in luxury or comfort. Bonville is the best place to receive a good night sleep in a peaceful, quite and country atmosphere to refresh you for the following day’s activities.

Only 2km from the award winning Bonville Golf Resort named most beautiful golf course in Australia. It has 72-par championship courses and provides all services and facilities needed to play world class games.

Located in pictorial surroundings Bonville is encompassed by copious towns and beaches to explore especially the iconic Coffs Harbour.

Entrace at Bonville Lodge Luxury Bed and Breakfast, New South Wales

 

Country Club Tasmania, Tasmania

Country Club Tasmania is the epitome of relaxation and something for everyone. Located in lush parkland of Launceston, Tasmania is a true oasis for dinning, entertainment and accommodation.

It has a variety of accommodation to suit all budgets including 4 and 5 star rooms and multiple villas. There is also a diverse selection of restaurants, bistros and cafes to cater for your appetite and accounts. Some includes the Links Café, Villa Italiana, Bolters pizzeria and Watergarden all using local produce and overlooking the spectacular scenery.

The facilities at Country Club are truly one of a kind. There are all the typical amenities such as pools, tennis courts and saunas though they exceed this by providing horse riding through the local bushland, trout fishing and natural therapies. Tours can be booked to discover the wonderful state of Tasmania and all its beauty.

Onsite there is a boutique casino for all the risk-seekers or to enjoy a good night out. All year round there is live entertainment from acts to be enjoyed by everyone including singing and comedy held in the Tonic Bar or Country Club Tasmania Room.  Topped off with an 18-hole championship golf course part of the Prospect Vale Golf Club providing all the obstacles needed to challenge and improve your skills.  

Country Club Tasmania, Tasmania

Novotel Twin Waters Resorts Sunshine Coast, Queensland

If you want to receive the royal treatment then Novotel Twin Waters Resorts Sunshine Coast is the place to enjoy as it has the majestic touch of Queen Elizabeth II and Princess Phillip who stayed in 2002.

This resort is the ideal match of beach and bonding time with the family. It is situated on the Sunshine Coast just an hour from Brisbane surrounded by an abundance of attractions including Australia Zoo and Eumundi Markets as well as local bushland and beaches.

The 18-hole golf course is located on the beautiful tranquil grounds and designed by internationally renowned golf architects especially to enjoy and challenge golf enthusiast.

The Kidz Cove kids club keeps the children entertained all day and night will ample activities and resoruces. Allowing adults to enjoy the Lagoon Day Spa with a private water view to completely indulge and invigorate the body and mind.

Novotel provides some unique experiences including Australia’s first All Terrain Segway Xperience an adventure activity where you can explore the entire property on 2 wheels. For the more daring there is a Cirque Escape which is a circus school teaching skills including juggling, static trapeze, flying trapeze, tight wire and bungee trampoline.

There are countless eateries for all your needs and times of the day.

Novotel Twin Waters Resorts Sunshine Coast, Queensland

Get your heart pumping around Australia

Skydiving in Cairns, Queensland

Cairns is one the most popular destinations in Queensland known for its beautiful beaches and of course holds one of the great wonders of the world - The Great Barrier Reef.

Imagine experiencing and seeing all of Cairns' attractions at once by completing a Tandem Skydive and seeing a full birds eye view of the region's attractions. Get the adrenaline rushing by  jumping 15, 000 ft and free falling for over 60 seconds. It is the fastest human powered sport on earth, reaching speeds of up to 200 kph. An experienced Tandem Master travels with you all the way, providing a 20 minute debrief, training and instructions prior to the departure. Anyone can participate, no experience necessary.

Skydiving in Cairns, Queensland

Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge, Sydney

Want to follow in the footsteps of celebrities including Oprah Winfrey and Will Smith? Then a Sydney Harbour Bridge climb could be for you. It is 3.5 hour journey to the top of one of the most famous bridges in the world. A full 360 degrees view of this breath taking city spanning from the Sydney Opera House to the Blue Mountains. Travel with a group of 12 plus an instructor any time of the day, from the early sunrise tour to the magic dusk tours where the city lights sparkle. Upon reaching the summit you can have your photo taken of this unforgettable experience.

Concurring the Sydney Harbour Bridge Climb, Sydney

Jet Boat Thrill Ride, Sydney

Don’t mind getting a bit wet and wild then Oz Jet Boating is the experience for you. Set in the famous Sydney Harbour this thrilling ride will combine both sight seeing of iconic landmarks such as Sydney Harbour Bridge and Taronga Zoo plus a range of spins, slides and power break stops on the renowned Red Shark Boat. The 30 minute adventure will fulfil your need for speed as well having a unique experience of Sydney from the water.

Red Shark Boat on Sydney Harbour, Sydney

Otway Fly Treetops Adventures, Melbourne

Located less than 2.5 hours from Melbourne Otway Fly Treetops Adventures is a fun, adventurous ride fit for the whole family. Choose between walking amongst the treetops canopy or for the more daring abseil your way through Mountain Ash. These 30 metre high structures are a lovely way to experience and observe the forest from another angle. For 3.5 hours you can leave your fear behind and absorb the fresh air of the beautiful Otway forest. This is perfect for group bookings and family outings.

Family Friendly Otway Fly Treetops Adventures, Melbourne

Hot Air Ballooning, Brisbane

Up, Up and Away…  See Brisbane and all its beauty at the awakening morning with a Hot Air Balloon ride. Starting at 5am this is a unique experience floating over the Gold Coast hinterland which spectacular sights of beautiful forests and beaches. After your flight the team will whist you away to an exclusive champagne breakfast at O'Reilly's Grand Homestead & Vineyard. This is the perfect balance of thrills and frills to start a magical day. 

Hot Air Ballooning in the Gold Coast hinterland. Brisbane

Top 5 hikes and walks in Australia

Bondi to Bronte

It’s no wonder this walk has been rated as one of the world’s most picturesque walks, as it will have you gazing across beautiful beaches, parks and spectacular views. This unique walk includes Bondi, Tamarama and Bronte Beach plus a medium gradient cliff-top path from Bondi to Tamarama, with occasional seating and several staircases.

The beachside parks offer picnic shelters, coin-operated barbecues, play areas, kiosks, toilets and change-rooms. Good for short walks or a day trip, this walk will show you the best of Sydney’s coastline.

Ocean Baths - Bondi Beach

                                                                                           

Cradle Mountain, Tasmania

On a walk through Cradle Mountain you are able to witness the wild landscape of Australia’s natural beauty at its best. This area is one of the most popular natural areas in Tasmania, and for good reason. A part of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area, Cradle Mountain’s jagged contours, ancient rainforest, alpine heathlands, buttongrass and the colours of the deciduous beech provide a range of environments to explore. 

The park contains an extensive network of walking tracks to suit everyone's tastes. Walks through Cradle Mountain are good for day trips and short walks (under 2 hours).

Cradle Mountain - Tasmania

Kimberley’s

If you want to explore the Kimberley’s, then head to Purnululu. This World Heritage listed park contains the famous Bungle Bungles, which is seen as one of the scenic jewels of outback Australia. Famous for its 45 000 hectare range, walks through the Purnululu will reveal natural formations that are millions of years old. You will see huge banded beehive structures, sandstone cliffs and towers. On the northern side of the Bungle Bungle range is Echidna Chasm. This unspoiled scenic area is considered as one of Australia’s most amazing walking destinations and is relatively easy going. 

Walks can be done in a day or you can camp overnight depending on the season.

Purunululu National Park - Bungle Bungles

Blue Mountains

There are so many amazing bushwalking tracks to explore throughout the stunning World Heritage listed Blue Mountains region. There are walks for all ages and fitness levels. The Blue Mountains boasts one of the most complex track systems of any national park in Australia. Dating from as early as 1825, many of the constructed tracks have national, state and regional significance, and several are named to commemorate significant periods or events in our history.

While walking the Blue Mountains you can hike down the Giant Stairway past the Three Sisters, retrace the route of early mountain explorers or check out the recent discovery of the prehistoric Wollemi Pine.

Three Sisters - Blue Mountains

Victoria

There is an extensive network of tracks and trails around Victoria’s High Country where you can admire the stunning scenery of Victoria’s highest peaks. Alpine National Park is Victorias largest National Park. One of the Parks most impressive features is Bryces Gorge, which is reached via a 7.5 km excellent family walking trail, providing good views of the gorge and also of two waterfalls along the route. 

When walking along the panoramic alpine plains around Falls Creek, or trek along Mount Buffalo’s walking tracks, make sure you keep an eye out for kangaroos, wallabies, wombats, possums or falcons.

Another fantastic day walk is around the coastline of Victoria - particularly Great Ocean Road. Short walks (under 1 hour) to day walk are available, along stunning coastline, rugged cliffs and sandy beaches.

Hiking in Victoria

4 Places to swim with amazing sea creatures

Whale Sharks in Ningaloo Reef

Ningaloo Reef is an incredible aquatic environment filled with an amazing diversity of seasonal marine life ranging from colourful corals and reef fish, manta rays, turtles, whales and dolphins to the world's largest fish, the magnificent whale shark. Between late March and July the award winning Three Islands Whale Shark Dive specialises in whale shark snorkelling adventures with professional, friendly staff ensuring each tour is operated to the highest standard giving a magical marine wildlife experience. This unique adventure begins with a reef snorkel before moving to the outer reef for the star attraction, the Whale Sharks.

Snorkel with the Whale Sharks, Three Islands Whale Shark Dive

Seals in Port Lincoln

Set off on an unforgettable underwater adventure in beautiful Port Lincoln. These fascinating puppy dogs of the sea will welcome you to the crystal clear waters of Seal Cove. Watch them as they bound out to the boat with excitement to begin their awaited performance. These inquisitive sea mammals will engage you in their underwater production. Summersaults, back flips, and graceful swirls will fascinate and amaze you. The leaps and twists out of the water right in front of you - truly electrifying! Join the Australian Sea Lion and become part of their underwater playground.

Sharks at Seaworld, Gold Coast

This experience gives you the opportunity to get up close and personal with sharks and other marine life, while accompanied by a qualified Shark Bay diver. You will swim in Shark Bay’s reef lagoon as smaller whitetip and blacktip reef sharks swim around you. There is also an opportunity for you to look through to the Shark lagoon to see the larger Sharks which are just a window length away. Each dive is an educational experience and all participants must hold a current Diving Certificate and will receive their very own souvenir photo taken by a professional photographer.

Shark at Seaworld, Gold Coast

Dolphins at Mornington Peninsula

Join the team at 'Moonraker Dolphin Swims' as they take you on a snorkelling experience like no other. Snorkel with resident Bottlenose Dolphins, swim alongside cheeky Australian Fur Seals, explore underwater marine parks filled with colourful fish and join the search for weedy sea dragons. Tours depart Sorrento Pier just 1.5 hours from Melbourne on the picturesque Mornington Peninsula. Tour activities include morning or afternoon tea, all snorkelling equipment, wetsuit and guided snorkel tour with marine naturalist.

Moonraker Dolphin Swim, Victoria

2012 Melbourne Cup Carnival packages

The Melbourne Cup Carnival is the ultimate four day celebration of racing, style, fashion and glamour. For one week in spring, fabulous Flemington becomes the focus of the nations corporate, social and equine activity.


Experience the 2012 Melbourne Cup Carnival, highlighted by the running of the Emirates Melbourne Cup with premium two night accommodation packages at your choice of a great range of hotels and Carnival venues.

Melbourne Cup - Spring Racing Carnival

All of the below packages include 2 nights accommodation, return coach transfers from Melbourne Airport to hotel, return train/tram tickets to Flemington Racecourse on 1 November & admission to selected race day venue. All you need to do is select your chosen hotel and race day enclosure!

AAMI Victoria Derby Day is considered by most racing purists to be the best single day of thoroughbred racing in Australia, if not the world. The day provides a sizzling start to the racing week. Be sure to wear the traditional black and white outfit!

Package includes:

• 2 nights accommodation
• Admission to Flemington Racecourse
• Access certain food outlets and betting facilities within the grandstand
• Return coach transfers from Melbourne Airport to hotel
• Return train/tram tickets to Flemington Racecourse

Melbourne Cup - Spring Racing Carnival

The Emirates Melbourne Cup is the greatest day on the sporting and social calendar - the one day when everyone, young and old, stops to partake in this unique cultural tradition. At 3pm on the first Tuesday in November, the nation comes to a standstill for 200 heart-pounding seconds to watch the running of this great race.

Package includes:

• 2 nights accommodation
• Admission to Flemington Racecourse
• Access certain food outlets and betting facilities within the grandstand
• Return coach transfers from Melbourne Airport to hotel
• Return train/tram tickets to Flemington Racecourse

Melbourne Cup - Spring Racing Carnival

Crown Oaks Day The Ultimate Style Day is the traditional ladies day, where women celebrate feminine elegance and the heritage of Ladies Day at Flemington. This day is also the final of the Myer Fashions on the Field.

Package includes:

• 2 nights accommodation
• Admission to Flemington Racecourse
• Access certain food outlets and betting facilities within the grandstand
• Return coach transfers from Melbourne Airport to hotel
• Return train/tram tickets to Flemington Racecourse

Melbourne Cup - Spring Racing Carnival

Emirates Stakes Day The Melbourne Cup Carnival concludes with Emirates Stakes Day, featuring Victoria's premier 1600m event, the Group 1 Emirates Stakes. Recognised as the Carnival’s family day, the focus is on family fun with an abundance of activities arranged for children.

Package includes:

• 2 nights accommodation
• Admission to Flemington Racecourse
• Admission to the Home Straight enclosure
• Reserved seat at a table for the day inside the marquee
• Access to garden area with live band on stage
• Buffet lunch
• Afternoon tea
• All Day Beverage Package including beer, wine, sparkling wine and soft drinks
• Return coach transfers from Melbourne Airport to hotel

Melbourne Cup - Spring Racing Carnival

Conditions apply. Prices are per person twin share in Australian dollars, airfares not included.

Discover regional Victoria

Great Ocean Road

Take in the Victorian coastline and all of its charms as you drive the iconic Great Ocean Road. From the laidback coastal towns and maritime villages to famous surf beaches and amazing rock formations, you’ll never be lost for amazing sights. The postcard iconic Twelve Apostles are just

one of the trip’s highlights.

Port Fairy, Great Ocean Road

Yarra Valley

The Yarra Valley is a must visit for those who enjoy the finer things in life. Stopover at the famous Domaine Chandon winery, sample delicious cheeses at Yarra Valley Dairy or combine the two indulgences and call into cellar doors and restaurants that offer amazing local wine and produce. There’s a bounty of great food and wine in the area.

Mornington Peninsula

Escape to the beaches and rolling hills of the Mornington Peninsula. Right on Port Phillip Bay just an hour and a half from Melbourne, tee up for a game of golf or go exploring the hidden vineyard retreats. Take a slower pace here. It’s all about life’s little pleasures as you fill your days with beachcombing, golfing and food and wine tasting.

Mornington Peninsula

Phillip Island

Phillip Island is famed for its wildlife. Catch the spectacle of the daily penguin parade along the sand dunes at dusk and see seals and koalas up close. Nature is at its best here but there’s so much more to see. Kids are well_catered for, with plenty of attractions and family friendly beaches. Phillip Island also plays host to two big events on the motor racing calendar, the V8 Supercar Championship and the Motorcycle Grand Prix.

Phillip Island

Gippsland

Victoria’s Gippsland region offers up a combination of national parks, enormous lakes and laidback beaches, mountain towns and alpine country. Ninety Mile Beach and the Gippsland Lakes are the centre of activity for fishing, boating, swimming and water-skiing. Or visit the historic gold mining town of Walhalla.

Picnic at Gippsland

Goldfields

Relive the days of the gold rush of more than 150 years ago in the Goldfields region. Local towns and villages now blend contemporary boutiques, galleries and restaurants with historic architecture. But you can still feel part of the hustle and bustle of an old gold mining town with a visit to the outdoor museum; Sovereign Hill in Ballarat.

Spa Country

Rest and relaxation are a given at Daylesford and Hepburn Springs. For more than a century people have flocked here in search of the therapeutic benefits of the natural mineral springs. There are more here than anywhere else in Australia. Indulge in decadent spa treatments and decadent dining while staying in boutique accommodation.

Daylesford, Spa Country

The Grampians

It’s rugged and spectacular and renowned for its outdoor activities, from bushwalking and rock climbing, to fishing and canoeing. The Grampians National Park has walking tracks ranging from a casual stroll to overnight treks. Traverse the series of five sandstone ridges to see spectacular views, wildflowers and Aboriginal rock art sites.

The Murray

You’d go a long way to find a more scenic place to enjoy great food, wine and weather than The Murray region. Watch the afternoon sun shimmer on the mighty Murray River and sample the wares of local citrus growers, vineyards and restaurants.

High Country

Victoria’s High Country is the perfect all-rounder holiday destination. Ski the alps in winter and return when the weather is warm for outdoor adventure activities. Eating your way around the region’s villages is also highly recommended. Family-run restaurants and boutique wineries offer a delightful place to return to after a day’s outdoor fun.

Victoria's High Country