COUNTRY & CITY GUIDE

Country Guide | Adelaide | Brisbane | Cairns
Canberra | Darwin | Hobart |Melbourne |Perth |Sydney

Country Guide

Australia is a diverse country with a wide range of wonderful experiences to offer. We have a first hand knowledge of the destination with representatives knowing the hotels, the car companies and tour operators that are featured in this programme, so it can be assured that they meet your requirements perfectly.

All items can be tailor made, so whatever your interest, it can be satisfied, from scuba diving to wine tasting, from nature lovers to thrill seekers and if you can't find it within these pages, then contact us and we will do all we can to help and make it happen.

Below is a guide to some the major cities of Australia, giving full details on each of the state capital cities and one or two others too. There is lots of information on not just what to see in the city itself but in some of the outlining areas too!

In the "Australian State" sections, there is an outline of what to see, the various activities and adventures that are available including some rather unique experiences and a guide to when to travel. There is also information on the many festivals and events in these States, so if you're a motor racing enthusiast trying to find out when the Melbourne Grand Prix is, or want to sample Australian delicacies at one of the excellent food festivals, you can find the relevant details right here.

City Guide

Adelaide

Adelaide, capital of South Australia, is gracious, spacious and green with its central square mile ringed by protective parklands. Stroll along North Terrace, an elegant boulevard, where you'll find a number of grand old buildings such as the Parliament House, the Government House and the Old Parliament House.

Visit the Bradman Collection in The Institute Building for the story behind one of Australia's most famous sporting heroes. Further along is the Art Gallery of South Australia which houses the state's collection of Australian, European and Asian art. Next stop, the South Australian Museum for an insight into the state's natural, geological and anthropological history. Of particular importance are its ethnographic collections of Australian Aboriginal and early Pacific cultures.

The Botanical Gardens are home to subtropical and Mediterranean plant species as well as a collection of fine heritage buildings. Here too is one of the largest conservatories in the southern hemisphere with a spectacular display of tropical rainforest plants including orchids, palms and ferns. Nearby is Tandanya, the National Aboriginal Cultural Institute, a museum and venue for fostering and developing Aboriginal art, culture, visual and performing arts. Authentic arts and crafts are on sale. Exhibitions are changed regularly with special programs designed and developed for school holidays.

A short ride on the free City Loop bus service will bring you to Adelaide's Central Markets where you may indulge your senses with a stunning range of fresh produce from South Australia and beyond. Neighbouring Gouger Street offers cuisine from around the world with Chinatown located in the heart of this precinct with an eye-catching gateway and lanterns beckoning shoppers and diners alike.

Further afield is The Jam Factory Craft and Design Centre and in addition to its two galleries and two superb retail shops, the Jam Factory has four training workshops involving glass, ceramic, metal and furniture design. Guided tours are available on request. In the way of wildlife, there is Adelaide Zoo, which has more than 1,500 native and exotic mammals, birds and reptiles.

Ride the famous Glenelg Tram from the centre of Adelaide to the seaside suburb of Glenelg where wide, white beaches, stately homes and a vibrant shopping and eating district will greet you on arrival. Light's Vision on Montefiore Hill, so named after the city's founding planner, offers splendid views across the parklands, over the River Torrens and the city centre. Spend some time in North Adelaide, an attractive area of beautifully restored bluestone cottages, grand homes, old hotels, lacework balconies and verandas, antique shops and art galleries.

After dark activities largely involve Adelaide's heralded pubs. Many have been restored to there past glory and now offer a diverse selection of food, wine and ales - in particular the famous, family-owned Coopers. The Casino, housed in a classic 1929 sandstone building, offers full gaming facilities, nightly entertainment and an excellent restaurant.

The nearby Adelaide Festival Centre is a contemporary performing arts complex with five theatres used for dance, music, drama, opera, mime and film as well as conventions and trade shows. It is venue for the biennial Adelaide Festival, the largest festival of its kind in Australia.

No visit to Adelaide is complete without a trip to the Adelaide Hills. Tumbling green countryside, great forests and reservoirs, orchards and market gardens, walking and riding trails, historic townships and a warm welcome greet your arrival. Festivals, country shows and special events add colour and atmosphere to this stunning and hospitable region. Only 25 minutes drive from Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills offer something for everyone all year round. Mount Lofty, Marble Hill, the Torrens Gorge, Onkaparinga Valley, Hahndorf, Mount Barker, Clarendon and the Kuitpo Forest, just to name a few, are all within easy reach of your Adelaide hotel.

Adelaide prides itself on providing the finer things in life - from fabulous restaurants to world class wines. Home of over a million people, cafe society, designer shopping and a vibrant nightlife, Adelaide is what a city is meant to be, framed by parklands, hills and sea, its green, wide and welcoming.

Brisbane

Brisbane, the 'City of Sun Days', is a clean, fresh and vibrant city and as Australia's only sub-tropical capital city, Brisbane offers all the excitement of a Big City but with a relaxing pace.

Brisbane's Central Business District is packed with fine eateries, al fresco cafes, fashion, entertainment and gardens. The Myer Centre offers an excellent range of shopping, while Conrad Treasury Casino provides 24 hour a day entertainment. The majestic Brisbane River meanders its way through the city area, providing the perfect opportunity for an escape to the City Botanic Gardens and stroll along the river promenade.

From the Botanic Gardens, catch a CityCat or walk across the Victoria Bridge to visit the South Bank Precinct - the entertainment and cultural hub of Brisbane. The Queensland Art Gallery, Queensland Museum, the State Library and the Queensland Performing Arts Complex are all based in this area. South Bank Parkland is home to the weekend arts and craft market, where you are sure to find the perfect gift.

Build a sandcastle at Breaka Beach - the only inland beach in Australia, be awe struck by the IMAX theatre, or sit and watch the world pass by with a refreshing drink on the board walk.

The Morton Bay region, less than 40 minutes drive from the centre of Brisbane, offers visitors crystal blue waters, lush green islands and a delightful array of sea creatures. With over 300 diverse, sub-tropical islands to be found in this region, there is sure to be something to entertain everyone. Visit Queensland's first penal colony on St. Helena Island, hand feed the wild dolphins at Moreton Island or journey through Aboriginal history on Stradbroke Island.

If you fancy a bushwalk, Brisbane Forest Park can be found just 20 minutes west of Brisbane City. With 28,500 hectares of natural bushland, a huge variety of recreational areas, quality picnic facilities, walking trails, a camping area and over 96km of horse riding and cycling trails, the Brisbane Forest Park is the perfect place to relax.

For a wildlife experience, The Australian Woodshed, 11 kilometres north-west of Brisbane at Ferny Hills, portrays an Australian sheep station of today, giving visitors a chance to experience a taste of the Outback. Alma Park Zoo, situated 28 kilometres from Brisbane at Kallangur, displays a large collection of Queensland's palms and tropical plants and a wide variety of Australian and exotic animals. Visitors can walk through the enclosures and touch native Australian animals, including wombats, emus, wallabies and kangaroos.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, 12 kilometres from Brisbane at Fig Tree Pocket, has more than 80 species of Australian native animals and birds, including a large colony of koalas and kangaroos in their natural environment.

With the warm waters and golden sands of the Gold Coast only one hour south of Brisbane, and the Sunshine Coast only 90 minutes north, Brisbane is a perfect place to begin to explore other regions.

Cairns

Cairns is the major centre in Tropical North Queensland and a popular gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and the vast wilderness of Cape York Peninsula. The city is fringed by lush rainforests and, to the north and south, are miles of white sandy beaches and turquoise oceans teeming with marine life.

From Cairns, daily cruise boats and sail boats travel to Green Island, Fitzroy Island and the outer reef with charter seaplanes and helicopters also being available. The World Heritage listed Great Barrier Reef is as diverse as beautiful and many visitors flock to the reef to experience what is arguably the best scuba diving in the world. Others choose a glass bottomed boat, or a semi-submersible to view the myriad species of coral and marine life.

Tropical North Queensland is also famous for the island resorts along the coast, which offer all kinds of activities and diversions. From the reef to the rainforest take the Skyrail, a gondola cableway over the rainforest from Smithfield, an outer suburb of Cairns, to the picturesque village of Kuranda, on the edge of the Tropical Tablelands. Visit a range of unique natural and cultural attractions including Australia's largest Butterfly Sanctuary and an Aboriginal Dance Theatre, go for a cruise on the river, or shop for local art and crafts and at the end of the day board the famous Kuranda Scenic Railway back to Cairns.

Travel north along the scenic Captain Cook Highway to Port Douglas, a beach resort town offering modern, luxurious accommodation as well as backpacker hostels, pubs with character, and many good restaurants. Attractions and activities include the Rainforest Habitat and tours to the outer reef and rainforest. The largest tract of virgin rainforest in Australia is the World Heritage-listed Daintree and Cape Tribulation National Parks, beginning in Mossman, a sugar-milling town and gateway to Mossman River Gorge. This is an area of clear, running streams, walking tracks and towering forest.

Further north is Cooktown which is an historic town on the banks of the Endeavour River and served as a port for the nearby goldfields during the 19th century. Rare and abundant native flora flourish in the area. Further west is the Gulf Savannah region stretching as far west as the Northern Territory border. Tours are available with the Savannah Guides to explore the areas of Mount Surprise, a centre for gem fossicking, the Undara Lava Tubes, a rare network of volcanic tunnels and Tallaroo mineral hot springs.

The Frankland Islands are untouched National Park islands accessible by day tours departing from Cairns, which incorporate a short river cruise and a trip out to the islands. Further north of Cairns is Lizard Island, Australia's northernmost resort island and one of the most exclusive. Renowned for its relaxed luxury, world class game fishing, fine cuisine and some of the best diving sites on the reef.

Fitzroy Island is the perfect getaway location for relaxation and adventure. Only 7km from mainland, it is an unspoilt island covered in lush rainforest with unique birdlife. Stay in beach cabins or bunkhouses and enjoy spectacular views across Welcome Bay. There are daily fast catamaran services from Cairns.

Finally Green Island, is a coral cay where you can enjoy superb scuba diving, snorkelling, walks in the rainforest or swimming in the azure waters. Make a day trip to the island aboard a high-speed catamaran or stay at the luxury resort catering for the discerning traveller although the transfers take only 45 minutes from Cairns.

Canberra

Canberra is Australia's capital and its climate and facilities make it an ideal place for sailing, fishing, cricket, football and hang gliding and cycling the extensive bicycle paths. With its multitude of parks and gardens, the national capital is particularly beautiful in spring and autumn.

At Canberra's centre, the artificial Lake Burley Griffin is ideal for sailing or cruising. The Australian National Botanical Gardens also provides the visitor with many outdoor pursuits. Around 300,000 people live in Canberra and the airport is 10km east of the city and buses connect city and suburban areas daily.

There are many attractions to see in and around the city including Parliament House, the diplomatic missions, National Gallery of Australia, the High Court and Questacon - the National Science and Technology Centre. There is the National Library of Australia, the Australian War Memorial, Telstra Tower and the Old Parliament House. The Australian Institute of Sport, the National Film and Archive Exhibition, National Museum of Australia and the Royal Australian Mint.

Further afield, Canberra boasts some amazing flora and fauna in the Tidbinbilla Nature Reserve and Namadgi National Park, offering spectacular views, walking tracks, Aboriginal rock paintings and heritage sites. Being the mountainous half of the Australian Capital Territory, Namadgi National Park provides a spectacular backdrop to Canberra.

With a rich human history from the dawn of time, the mountains of Namadgi provide the only known Aboriginal rock art sites in the high country and many tales of the early settlers. Enjoy scenic drives through the mountains and grassy plains. Discover the beauty of Snow Gum forests, granite peaks and walking trails throughout the park.

Visitors can pitch their tents in Namadgi National Park at the idyllic campgrounds of Orroral, Mount Clear or Honeysuckle Creek. Horse riding and fishing are permitted in some areas; picnic areas are located along most roads. Ask about ranger guided activities at the Visitor Centre. The Visitor Centre is just 40 minutes south of the city and is open from 9am to 4pm every day except Christmas Day.

At Cockington Green, discover a fascinating collection of miniature buildings from all parts of Great Britain or see the artwork of one of Australia's most famous artists, Sir Sidney Nolan, at The Nolan Gallery. As night time falls in Canberra, the casino is a popular location, and the variety of cafes and restaurants to be found in the Canberra area caters for diverse tastes.

Darwin

Darwin as the modern gateway to Australia's 'Top End' and enjoys a relaxed, tropical lifestyle, being an ideal base for visits to such spectacular World Heritage areas as the Kakadu National Park.

Darwin offers a range of attractions and activities to visitors that include the following. East Point Military Museum depicts World War II activities in the Northern Territory, Asia and Europe. Visitors can see footage of the Japanese bombing of Darwin in 1942 and re-live the terrifying moments of the first attack by a powerful enemy force on the Australian mainland. Other displays include the historic 'gunners' artillery pieces, photos and memorabilia.

Fannie Bay Jail Museum houses the old gallows used for the last execution in the Northern Territory in 1952. The Museum and Art Gallery of the Northern Territory houses a fine collection of work by major Australian artists, an outstanding collection of Aboriginal art, and South-East Asian and Oceanic artworks and objects of cultural and archaeological significance.

There are also natural science and maritime galleries and a Northern Territory history gallery concentrating on Cyclone Tracy which devastated Darwin in December 1974. The Australian Aviation Heritage Centre, 15 kilometres from Darwin, displays the city's aviation history with exhibits that include a B52 bomber, a B25 Mitchell bomber, a Spitfire replica, a Sabre jet and other aircraft. Videos of the war years in Darwin can be viewed.

Aquascene in Doctors Gully Road provides a daily fish-feeding ritual. The tide brings in milkfish, catfish, mullet, bream and many other varieties of fish to be fed by hand. It opens only at feeding times and the hours vary with the tides, to a maximum of three hours a day. Indo Pacific Marine, at The Wharf Precinct, combines the brilliant natural eco-systems of coral reef with informative talks and demonstrations. Tours at night feature fluorescing corals.

Just outside of Darwin is the Territory Wildlife Park, Berry Springs, displays wildlife of the Northern Territory in natural surroundings. Visitors may tour the park by train or use walking trails. There are many special displays featuring birds of prey, fish feeding in the underwater aquarium tunnel, and pelican feeding at the wader lagoon.

The Darwin Crocodile Farm is located on the Stuart Highway at Noonamah, 40 kilometres from Darwin. There are crocodile-feeding displays and guided tours. The farm is laid out in park-like grounds, with billabongs (waterholes) and lakes accommodating thousands of animals and there is a kiosk with souvenirs and a picnic area.

A great outdoor venue is the Darwin Botanical Gardens, a wonderland for nature lovers, set in a beautifully landscaped site. Of special interest are The Plant Display House, which contains plant species from the Asia/Pacific region, and a tropical palm collection. You can also soak up the local colour at one of the markets such as Mindil Beach Markets held every Thursday and Sunday night from April until October. Take a harbour cruise to explore mangroves, beaches and World War II sunken ships.

Nightlife in Darwin includes the MGM Grand Darwin Casino set in tropical gardens, on the edge of the golden sands of Mindil Beach, only three minutes from Darwin's city centre. It provides four-star accommodation, extensive entertainment options, dining choices and recreation facilities in and around the complex.

Also in the Darwin region are a number of National Parks. Litchfield National Park, 120 kilometres and a two-hour drive south of Darwin, offers a true taste of the Top End. This is an area of rocky escarpments, four spectacular waterfalls which plunge from the plateau's edge, safe swimming holes, rainforest beauty and varied wildlife.

Kakadu National Park, 252 kilometres east of Darwin, is a World Heritage area in a rugged country of magnificent escarpments, vast wetlands teeming with wildlife and ancient rock art. There are wonderful swimming holes and waterfalls at Jim Jim Falls and nearby Twin Falls.

All kinds of accommodation is available including the crocodile-shaped Gagudju Crocodile Hotel. Cruises operate along the East Alligator River and Yellow Waters Billabong. Cobourg Peninsula, 350 kilometres north-east of Darwin, is a pristine wilderness rich in Aboriginal culture and relics from Macassan trading days. The appeal of the place includes the wildlife, sandy beaches, skin diving in clear waters.

To experience Aboriginal culture, visit Bathurst and Melville Islands, 80 kilometres north of Darwin. The islands have been the home of the Tiwi Aborigines for thousands of years and offer an opportunity not only to learn about Tiwi culture but also to join in their activities. Colourful Tiwi fabrics and arts and crafts can be bought there. The islands can be visited on a guided tour, which includes a short flight from Darwin.

Hobart

Hobart, with a deep-water port and a maritime history, is the capital of Tasmania and Australia's second-oldest city. Founded in 1804, it straddles the Derwent River, with Mount Wellington as a magnificent backdrop to the city. Tasmania's South is an area covering the southern region of Tasmania, with its main centre being Hobart.

There are a number of attractions to visit in the Hobart area. These include Salamanca Place, adjacent to Constitution Dock in the city centre, which features beautifully preserved sandstone warehouses from the city's first settlement, speciality shops, arts and crafts, cafes and restaurants. The Salamanca Market is held every Saturday morning and is renowned for local craft and fresh produce.

Nearby Battery Point, a waterfront precinct, was first settled in 1804. It remains largely residential, with more than 40 historic buildings still in use. There are early fishermen's cottages, fine townhouses and old pubs. The best way to explore it is on foot. The Tasmanian Museum and Art Gallery has an outstanding collection of colonial art and exhibitions displaying the cultural and natural history of Tasmania. Visit Cascade Brewery, Australia's oldest brewery. The restored 19th-century Gasworks Village includes restaurants and cafes, art and craft shops, art gallery, children's toy shop, and whisky distillery.

Activities in the area include taking a leisurely stroll in the Royal Tasmanian Botanical Gardens situated only 2km from the centre. These outstanding gardens were established in the early 1800s and feature a fine collection of plants, a Conservatory, tropical glasshouse, herb garden and various water features. Mount Wellington's 1,234-metre peak provides panoramic views of the city and estuary beyond. It's a 20-minute drive from the city.

In the way of a great night out, try your luck at the Wrest Point Casino. The gaming facilities of this harbourside casino include roulette, craps, blackjack and the Australian game of two-up. Amenities include a revolving restaurant with views over the Derwent River, Asian restaurant, coffee shop, 11 bars and entertainment areas, nightclubs and convention centre.

For a small city, Hobart has a surprisingly large number of eating places, from the casual to the upmarket and caters for all tastes, from takeaway meals to sophisticated restaurants specialising in seafood and other traditional fare. Dinner cruises are popular, as are cruises taking you to the Cadbury Chocolate Factory. There are also numerous pubs well worth a visit. North Hobart, about three kilometres from the city centre, has good restaurants serving anything from Mediterranean and Asian food to modern Australian cuisine.

Richmond, 27 km north-east of Hobart, is a delightful Georgian village with Australia's oldest bridge. The best of Tasmania's art and crafts are on sale in the many sandstone buildings. New Norfolk, 38 km north of Hobart is famous for its hop fields and turn of the century architecture. The town was first settled in 1807 by convicts brought from Norfolk Island. Take an exciting devil jet boat ride on the Derwent river, bushwalk in the magnificent Mount Field National park area and find out how an Australian sheep property works at the Hamilton Sheep Centre.

Visit the Huon Valley about 45 minutes south of the city. Visitors can explore the area stopping by apple, berry and cherry orchards, oyster and salmon farms as roadside stands sell fresh produce. These tours leave Hobart daily.

Port Arthur Historical Site is located 100 km south of Hobart and is one of Australia's most significant historic sites. Port Arthur offers a combination of convict history, spectacular scenery and magnificent waterways. Visitors have access to a wide range of activities including 40 hectares of grounds, 30 buildings and ruins, historical walking tours, harbour cruises, museums and audiovisuals. Evening Ghost Tours operate year round, with guides giving an insight into the mystery of Port Arthur as you explore the site by lantern light.

Melbourne

Melbourne is the capital of Victoria and Australia's second-largest metropolis is known around the world for the Melbourne Cup horserace, but it offers so much more as a city of style, of Victorian architecture, of trams, of fashion, food, theatres, art galleries, and leafy gardens.

Attractions in Melbourne include the Rialto Towers observation Deck, located in Flinders Lane on level 55 of Melbourne's tallest building. It offers great panoramic views of the city. One of the comfortable boats departing from Princess Bridge will take you on a wonderful journey down the Yarra River. It is the best way to see and learn about the city as the river banks are home to many of Melbourne's treasures.

The city is noted for its lovely gardens, stroll through the Royal Botanical Gardens with its vast collection of Australian native plants. Situated on Birdwood Avenue in South Yarra, five kilometres south of the city centre, the gardens have a vast collection of exotic and Australian native plants set in a magnificent 19th-century landscaped garden.

The Victorian Arts Centre, and look for its spire on the Melbourne skyline, is situated on the banks of the Yarra River and is the premier performing arts venue in town and is the focal point of Melbourne's social and cultural scene. The complex includes the 115-metre-high spire-topped theatres of the State Theatre, Playhouse, and George Fairfax Studio. The Melbourne Concert Hall, the Performing Arts Museum, the Westpac Gallery and the Sidney Myer Music Bowl are also within this huge complex too. Guided tours, including backstage tours, are available.

Next door is the National Gallery of Victoria housing world-class collections of Australian, Aboriginal, Asian, European and Pre-Columbian art. Melbourne Museum, just completed at the end of 2000, is Australia's largest museum and includes an Aboriginal Centre and Children's Museum.

There are also over 100 independent galleries in Melbourne. For lovers of history and architecture, visit some of Melbourne's beautiful historic houses, Como House or Ripponlea, for example, or learn more about Australia's bush ranging and convict past at the Old Melbourne Jail.

Melbourne is a sports-mad city and home to world-famous sporting events such as the Melbourne Cup, the Australian Open Tennis and the Qantas Australia Grand Prix. Take a tour at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, featuring the Australian Gallery of Sport, Olympic Museum and venue of the Australian Rules Football Grand Final which draws huge crowds every year. The MCG is known as the "super theatre" of Australian sport. Special packages are available during the football and cricket seasons that include tickets to the game as well as entry to the Australian Gallery of Sport and Olympic Museum.

Have a hit of tennis at Melbourne Park which is the home of the Ford Australian Open Tennis Championships and is Australia's largest multi-purpose entertainment centre, with a seating capacity in the main auditorium of 15,000. 2000 saw the opening of Colonial Stadium, the new home for Australian Rules Football.

Play a round at one of the many world-class golf courses such as Royal Melbourne, Huntingdale or Kingston Heath. The Spring Racing Carnival is the time of fashion and glamour and the finest thoroughbreds from Australia and around the world. The premier event is the Melbourne Cup, held at Flemington Racecourse. March sees Melbourne playing host to the adrenaline-pumping and thunderous roar of the Formula One Grand Prix at Albert Park Lake, the first round on the international racing calendar.

Known as the Arts and Culture capital of Australia, a visit to Melbourne is not complete without experiencing a show at one of the many live theatres. Melbourne has a lively nightclub scene and is noted for live music and comedy clubs. The Crown Entertainment Complex in Southbank is Melbourne's entertainment and gambling mecca. Gaming facilities include blackjack, roulette, the big wheel, sic bo, baccarat, keno, craps, Caribbean stud poker, two-up and two-up dice. Numerous restaurants provide guests with a choice of international cuisine.

Great dining-out spots include St Kilda, South Yarra, and Lygon Street in Carlton for the best Italian cuisine; Brunswick Street, Fitzroy, for its offbeat cafe culture; and Southgate where you can dine overlooking the Yarra River. Melbourne's Chinatown in Little Bourke Street offers a superb range of Chinese cuisines. The Colonial Tramcar Restaurant travels the streets of Melbourne and is the world's only travelling tramcar restaurant serving fine cuisine and full bar service.

View Australia's unique wildlife including koalas, kangaroos, emus, wombats, wallabies and many colourful birds at The Royal Melbourne Zoological Gardens, that has more than 350 native and exotic animal species displayed in naturalistic landscaped exhibits set on 22 hectares. The zoo is only four kilometres from the city, and is easily accessible by train or tram. In 2000, the Melbourne Aquarium opened featuring more than 5500 animals, focussing on marine life from the Southern Oceans and Australia's inland waterways.

Macedon Ranges and Spa Country is set in the natural beauty of the Macedon Ranges, Australia's spa capital has everything you need for a perfect escape. Only one hour north-west of Melbourne lies a wealth of sumptuous food and wine, luxurious accommodation, colourful gardens, amazing rock formations, and world-renowned mineral springs. Visit the twin towns of Daylesford and Hepburn Springs, walk the Macedon Ranges and view the history that encompasses the area.

Yarra Valley and The Dandenongs are just under an hour's drive through breathtaking scenery from central Melbourne is a valley of lush rolling hills producing some of Australia's most impressive wines. Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and Shiraz are the Yarra Valley's award-winning varieties. Explore famous wineries, with more than 35 cellar doors to choose from and experience the Yarra Valley Grape Grazing Festival in March. If you like to see things from a different perspective, drift above the vineyards in a hot air balloon.

In the Dandenong Ranges, board the Puffing Billy Steam Railway as it winds through the spectacular forests and fern gullies of the Dandenong Ranges National Park. Follow the Mount Dandenong Tourist Road and browse through a myriad of antique shops, cafes, teahouses, craft stores and historical attractions.

Perth

Perth, the go-ahead capital of Western Australia, gives a feeling of space and light - set on the banks of the sparkling Swan River, a few miles from the magnificent beaches of the Indian Ocean. And a short way downstream is the vibrant, historic port city of Fremantle.

Attractions include the Perth Mint, where visitors can see how coins are made, witness gold pours and mint a coin or medallion. Located in the city centre is the Art Gallery of Western Australia housing a collection of Aboriginal art, Australian and international paintings, sculptures, crafts, decorative arts, prints and drawings. Scitech Discovery Centre is a unique hands-on minds-on science and technology centre. There are 160 displays for touching and exploring plus exciting special exhibitions.

Underwater World, located at Hillarys Boat Harbour on the Sunset Coast just 20 minutes north of Perth CBD offers seals, dolphins, an underwater journey, divers hand feeding sharks and rays, microworld, touch pool, theatre, restaurant, whale watching, diving, functions and theme parties.

There are also a number of wildlife and theme parks in the area as well as the Perth Zoo, which is set in beautiful landscaped gardens and is a relaxing place to visit. The shady walkways and grassy picnic areas, complemented by one of Australia's most impressive collections of palm trees, create an idyllic environment in which to view the extensive animal collection. Tumbulgum Farm is a picturesque 80 hectare property just 40 minutes south of Perth which offers visitors a complete Australiana experience including a farm show, an Aboriginal cultural show, and an Aussie barbeque lunch, all in a half day tour. Tumbulgum also features a deer park plus native animal park with kangaroos, emus, and a pet deer.

Outdoor activities include picnics in Kings Park with its walking trails and a 12-hectare botanical garden, famous for its spring wildflower displays. The park is a pleasant walk from the centre of Perth and is well served by public transport and the Perth Tram. Also visit some of the magnificent white-sand, Indian Ocean surfing beaches. The closest is City Beach, but Cottesloe, Floreat, Scarborough, and Sorrento are also popular. Safe, calm beaches on the Swan River include Como, Crawley and Point Walter.

In the way of nightlife, try your luck at the Burswood International Resort Casino, open 24 hours a day and set in beautiful parkland, close to the centre of Perth. Burswood offers five-star luxury accommodation with every room commanding a view of the Swan River and Perth city skyline. The casino boasts 120 gaming tables and 1,100 video machines, with a convention centre, recreation facilities, cabaret lounge, nine restaurants and six bars. An international room incorporating private gaming rooms is available to VIP players.

International cuisine has its epicentre in Northbridge. Taste excellent Western Australian fish and seafood including freshwater and saltwater lobster, king prawns and oysters.

Fremantle, 18 kilometres south-west of Perth, is a colourful, busy port at the mouth of the Swan River, easily accessible by bus, train, ferry and taxi. Attractions include the Fremantle Arts Centre, the Western Australian Maritime Museum, the Round House, Fremantle Prison, the market and the lively town centre affectionately known as the cappuccino strip.

Some 70km south of Perth is the coastal resort of Mandurah, traditionally a holiday escape from the city with its extensive waterways, fine golf courses, spectacular scenery, bushwalks and natural bushland camping areas. Visitors can enjoy all forms of water based activities from fishing to surfing, as well as being in the Australian bush camping under the stars, bushwalking, birdwatching, trout fishing in season, horseriding and much more.

The nearby town of Dwellingup is in the heart of one of Western Australia's jarrah forests. Adjoining this small timber town is the Lane-Pool Reserve where camping is permitted along the banks of the beautiful Murray River. This is a very popular canoeing and bushwalking area. The Bibbilmun Track, one of the longest walking trails in the state, meanders close by and attracts hikers from all parts of the state.

A highlight to any visit to Dwellingup is a trip on the Etmilyn Forest Tramway into the heart of the forest. Dwellingup is also the depot complex for the Hotham Valley Tourist Railway that conducts an extensive tour program on steam trains and other older diesel engines. This region is also noted for its abundant wildflowers and visitors are invited to visit the Forest Heritage Centre for an insight into the natural flora and fauna in the area. An exclusive display of crafted wood work can be viewed and purchased at the gallery, which is housed inside the centre.

Sydney

Sydney is a free spirited and vibrant city built around one of the world's most beautiful harbours, with scores of sparkling beaches within easy reach of its cosmopolitan heart. Sydney, capital of New South Wales is Australia's largest and oldest city and where the first settlers landed in 1788.

Situated on Sydney Harbour, adjacent to Circular Quay is The Rocks lying beneath the giant arch of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and overlooking the famous sails of the Sydney Opera House. This historic quarter of Sydney was the site of the first colonial settlement in Australia in 1788. The Rocks is home to many colourful characters, residents and artists. The Sydney Visitor Centre is a good place to start discovering this area, where you a pick up a map, chat with the friendly information officers and view the centre's archaeological exhibition.

The Rocks is a waterfront precinct is where you will discover beautifully restored historic buildings and lose time as you admire displays in one of the many galleries and museums. This historic precinct offers a wide selection of dining, shopping and entertainment. The Rocks is a "must do" part of every visitor's itinerary in Sydney. and will certainly be well worth the visit.

Why not try the Weekend Market, which is located right in the heart of Sydney's old quarter, open every Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 4.30pm. The markets specialise in Australian home wares, antiques, collectibles and gifts. Join a tour with Bridge Climb and climb the arches of the Sydney Harbour Bridge or take the stairs up the Pylon Lookout, both providing fantastic views of Sydney Harbour and surrounding suburbs.

Sydney Opera House, a landmark building at Bennelong Point, is home to Australia's opera, ballet and theatre companies as well as the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. There are a number of restaurants located in the complex and guided tours are also available. Sydney Tower Observation Level is located in the AMP Centrepoint Tower. The tower provides compelling 360-degree views of Sydney from both the observation level and its revolving restaurant.

Darling Harbour is a place where Sydney celebrates. This modern waterside harbour, five minutes from the city centre is accessible by car, ferry, bus, light rail and monorail. Browse through the 200 shops in the Harbourside Shopping complex and eat in one of the waterfront restaurants at Harbourside or the all new Cockle Bay development. You can also visit many world class attractions including the Australian National Maritime Museum, the Panasonic Imax Theatre, The Chinese Garden, The Powerhouse Museum and Sega World.

Manly is a seaside resort on the north eastern corner of Sydney Harbour with both ocean and harbour beaches. From Circular Quay take the ferry or JetCat, an express ferry, to Manly or visit as part of a harbour cruise. Close to Manly Wharf are restaurants, boutiques and the aquarium, Oceanworld. Visit the old Quarantine Station at North Head that provides unsurpassed views. Day tours and special ghost tours at night are available. The area around Manly is ideal for scenic walks and the famous beach offers a range of water activities.

To the north and south of the city, you'll find white sand beaches, minutes away by bus, ferry or taxi. Within the harbour are Balmoral, Nielsen Park and Camp Cove. For surfing, there's Bondi, Bronte or Coogee Beach in the south; Manly, Collaroy or Palm Beach in the north.

In the city itself, enjoy Sydney's lively theatre, dance, opera, concert and pub entertainment. Kings Cross offers late night entertainment in bars and discos. For a movie and bite to eat head to George Street with the nearby Sydney Entertainment Centre being the venue for many concerts.

Choose from one of the many dinner cruises on the harbour offering entertainment and superb scenery, or try your luck at the casino, Star City. Overlooking the harbour, the casino offers gaming facilities such as blackjack, roulette, craps, sic bo and the traditional Australian favourite two-up.

Sample some jazz at Soup Plus, The Basement or Harbourside Brasserie, or dance the night away at the Cauldron, Retro or DCM. For rock music lovers there is the Woolloomooloo Bay Hotel or for comedy enjoy entertainment at Kaos, Sydney's most popular comedy restaurant.

Almost every cuisine is available in Sydney and the quality is very high. Try the local seafood or taste the best from international cuisines. Some of Sydney's best eating can be enjoyed in a number of precincts - Chinatown, The Rocks, Balmain, Leichhardt, Darlinghurst, Newtown and Kings Cross.

With four national parks within the city, Sydney offers a superb environment to get back to nature with opportunities for bushwalking, picnicking, and adventure activities, and are all easily accessible from the city. Sydney Harbour National Park incorporates the Sydney Harbour islands and much of the harbour foreshore, while the Royal National Park, Botany Bay National Park and Ku-ring-gai National Park offer an insight into Aboriginal culture through preserved rock and cave art.

Visit the site of the 2000 Olympic Games at Homebush Bay. Experience the Sydney International Aquatic Centre, popular with locals, and Stadium Australia, a major venue for entertainment including concerts and sporting events. Take a tour of the whole Olympic Park to gain a greater insight into what was Sydney's Olympic Games.

In the west of Sydney, before the Blue Mountains, are several historic cities and regions. Parramatta was settled by Governor Phillip in 1788 and was known as the capital of New South Wales in colonial times. It is an area of great historical interest with attractions such as the Old Government House and Elizabeth Farm.

Located 20 kilometres up the river from Sydney, access includes the Rivercat Ferry from Circular Quay. The City of Penrith is located on the Nepean River at the foot of the Blue Mountains. Attractions include the Penrith Lakes, selected as the venue for the rowing for the Sydney 2000 Olympic Games.

On the way to Penrith from Sydney, at Eastern Creek, is Australia's Wonderland, a major fun and theme park for Sydney, together with the Australian Wildlife Park where visitors discover the beauty of Australia's flora and fauna. The Hawkesbury River, flowing from Richmond to Broken Bay, north of Palm Beach, provides a playground for fishing, cruising, canoeing and waterskiing and many fine dining restaurants line the foreshore of this picturesque river.