GSTR International Trade Manual 2010/11

Great Southern tourinG route

International Trade Manual 2010/11Great Ocean rOad • Grampians • ballarat GOldfields

VictOria • aUstralia

www.greatsoutherntouring.com.au

> EnquiriesGaby Robinson - Executive Officer (all general enquiries & ITO’s) Email: [email protected] or Phone: +61 3 9592 1994

Chris Burchett - (contact for S/E Asia) Email: [email protected]

Felicity McMeekin - (contact for China & India) Email: [email protected]

Carole Reid - (contact for North America & New Zealand) Email: [email protected]

Roger Grant - (contact for United Kingdom & Europe) Email: [email protected]

> Twelve Apostles

The best of Australia’s natural attractions, coastal scenery, history and heritage - all in a flexible, compact, touring package.

> abOUt this manUal

this manual helps you plan holiday itineraries in the Great Southern touring route region.

Good standard inland and coastal roads allow for many touring variations. all travel times and distances included in the manual are indicative only.

tourism operators have been carefully selected to meet the high standards of professionalism required by the international marketplace.

Contact details are included so you can make contact directly or call your inbound tour operator.

www.greatsoutherntouring.com.au

03 | International Trade Manual 2010/11

The best of Australia’s natural attractions, coastal scenery, history and heritage - all in a flexible, compact, touring package.

viCtoria

aUstralia

www.greatsoutherntouring .com.au

www.greatsoutherntouring.com.au | 04


Region Wide

17 Best Western

31 Choice Hotels

38 Hertz

Geelong & Great Ocean Road Attractions

9 Great Ocean Walk

Queenscliff 8 Queenscliff Sorrento Ferry

8 Dive Victoria

Torquay

8 Surf World Torquay

Apollo Bay

8 Cape Otway Lightstation

Beech Forest 10 Otway Fly Tree Top Walk & Café

Accommodation Torquay

10 Crowne Plaza Torquay

Lorne

10 Mantra Erskine Beach Resort

Wongarra

10 A Great Ocean Road Resort Whitecrest

Apollo Bay

11 Beacon Point Ocean View Villas

11 Chris’s Restaurant & Villas

11 Seafarers Getaway

Great Ocean Road

11 bothfeet Walking Lodge

Warrnambool & Great Ocean RoadAttractions

9 Great Ocean Walk

Port Campbell 14 12 Apostles Helicopters

Warrnambool 14 Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village

& Sound/Laser Show

Tower Hill 14 Worn Gundidj

Portland

14 Heli-Explore

Accommodation

Port Campbell 15 Southern Ocean Villas

Warrnambool 15 Country Comfort Warrnambool Mid City

15 Flagstaff Hill Lighthouse Lodge

15 Lady Bay Resort

16 The Sebel Deep Blue Warrnambool

Port Fairy

16 Hearns Cottage Suites

16 Oscars Waterfront Boutique Hotel

16 The Victoria Apartments

Grampians National Park & SurroundsAttractions

Hamilton

20 Hamilton Art Gallery

Halls Gap

20 Brambuk - The National Park

& Cultural Centre

Ararat 20 Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre

Accommodation Dunkeld

20 Royal Mail Hotel

Halls Gap

21 Boroka Downs

21 D’Altons Resort

21 DULC

21 Mountain Grand Boutique Hotel

Ballarat Goldfields Attractions

Ballarat 24 Art Gallery of Ballarat

24 Ballarat Wildlife & Reptile Park

24 Sovereign Hill and Blood on the

Southern Cross

Hepburn Springs

24 Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa

Accommodation Ballarat 25 Craig’s Royal Hotel

25 Mercure Ballarat

25 Sovereign Hill Lodge

Daylesford

25 Lake House

Werribee & Surrounds Attractions

Werribee

27 Werribee Open Range Zoo

27 Werribee Park

Touring

Region Wide

29 BSK Adventures

29 Maui Rentals

30 Natural Treasures Tours

30 Otway Discovery Tours

Great Ocean Road

30 Port Campbell Touring Company

30 Soulfree Adventures

Restaurants

Wallington

32 Oakdene Vineyards & Restaurant

Apollo Bay

33 Chris’s Restaurant & Villas

33 Cape Otway Lightstation Café

Dunkeld 33 Royal Mail Hotel

Halls Gap

33 “The Balconies” Restaurant

Ballarat 33 Craig’s Royal Hotel

Daylesford

33 Lake House Restaurant

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The Great Southern Touring Route Committee Inc., including its officers, agents and contractors (“Publisher”), has made every endeavour to ensure that details appearing in this publication are correct at the time of printing, but accepts no responsibility for any inaccuracy or mis-description, whether by inclusion or omission, nor does the Publisher accept any responsibility for subsequent change or withdrawal of details or services shown which are subject to alteration without notice. Any standard of accommodation and/or services contained in this publication are indicative only of a certain class and are based upon information provided to the Publisher. Accordingly, the Publisher makes no representation or guarantee in relation to the standard, class or fitness for purpose of that accommodation or service. Photography: GSDM, Tourism Victoria, Parks Victoria and Regional Tourism Associations. GSDM_9424 June 2010


Geelong & Great Ocean RoadDive right in! The region with everythingjust got even better.

> Aerial, Great Ocean Road

20 min

1hour

11/2 hours

40 min45min

20 min

HamiltonHamilton

Ararat

Portland

Geelong

Ballarat

Melbourne

BASS STRAIT

National ParkPort Campbell

Princetown HillLavers

Halls Gap

Heywood

PortFairy

Mortlake

Timboon

Port Campbell

Camperdown

Colac

Werribee

Anglesea

Cape Otway

Lorne

Apollo Bay

Torquay

Stawell

Dunkeld

Warrnambool

GREAT OCEAN ROAD

GOLDFIELDSGRAMPIANS

To AdelaideSouth Aus.


Following the sinking of the

former Australian naval vessel, the

exHMAS Canberra, the Geelong

and Great Ocean Road region is

being hailed as one of the great

temperate diving sites in the

world.

An easy drive from Melbourne, visitors can

swim with dolphins, seals and the delightfully

named Verco’s Nudibranch, a strikingly

coloured fi sh with long feathery plumes.

And there’s so much more to Geelong

and the Great Ocean Road. Geelong has

all the big city experiences with small city

conveniences.

Visitors can view sparkling Corio Bay from a

helicopter, seaplane or the deck of a fancy

restaurant or bar.

The Bellarine Peninsula offers everything

from world-class temperate wines, fresh

seafood and pristine beaches to grand

villages and the only black lighthouse in the

Southern Hemisphere.

Speaking of beaches the Surf Coast has one

of the world’s most famous – Bells Beach.

Torquay is home to the Surf World Museum

and the only surfi ng retail plaza in Australia.

Torquay is also the offi cial start of the Great

Ocean Road, one of the greatest tourist

drives on the planet.

Well that’s according to Conde Nast

Traveller, Frommer’s and Australia’s leading

travel writer, Lee Atkinson.

Built after the First World War, the road is

the world’s biggest war memorial.

The road runs through exquisite ocean and

bush scenery and past amazing seaside

resort towns like Lorne and Apollo Bay.

> Geelong1. Waterfront Geelong: Just gets better

and better, new restaurants, new shops and

still with that amazing view over Corio Bay.

2. Walk amongst the trees, smell the fl owers: The Geelong Botanic Gardens,

also overlooking Corio Bay, contains a

mixture of Australian and exotic plants

and trees.

> Bellarine Peninsula3. Village delights: The villages of the

Bellarine Peninsula are perfect for a day trip

or an overnight stay. Dive boats heading for

the wreck of the exHMAS Canberra depart

from Queenscliff.

> Torquay4. Let’s go surfi ng: The Surf World Museum

tells why Torquay and nearby Bells Beach are

the spiritual homes of surfi ng in Australia.

> lorne5. Parading in Lorne: Rudyard Kipling

stayed in Lorne and wrote a poem about it.

Visitors will be moved to poetry and more

by this delightful seaside town with its

sandy beaches and eateries along

Mountjoy Parade.

> Apollo Bay6. Birdies and crays: Visitors can buy a

crayfi sh fresh off the wharf in the middle

of a game of golf. No wonder they also call

this place ‘Paradise’.

> Cape Otway7. A shining light: Ghosts, friendly koalas

and a panoramic view of the ocean and the

bush. That’s what travellers get when they

take the short detour to the Cape Otway

Lightstation.

> Beech Forest8. Tallest trees: Walk among the top of

some of the tallest trees in Australia at the

Otway Fly Tree Top Walk. There’s also

a café.

> Otways and Surrounds9. Get your boots on: The Great Ocean

Walk offers something for everyone from

serious bushwalkers to visitors just wanting

a short walk through the bush to a deserted

beach and back.

10. Go for a paddle: Hidden away in the

Great Otway National Park, Lake Elizabeth

is the place to see a platypus in the wild.

Top 10 Must do experiences…

> Dining> Diving

> Surfi ng

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ATTRACTIONS • GeelONG & GReAT OCeAN ROAd

queenscliffqueenscliff sorrento ferry

Description: Relaxing 40 minute trip crossing Port Phillip Bay connecting the Great Ocean Road and The Bellarine Peninsula to the Mornington Peninsula and Phillip Island. Enjoy the magnificent coastline, see mighty ships or even a dolphin or two. A great alternative to the drive around the bay. Relax. Save Time. Save Miles.

Type of operation: Car and Passenger Ferry.

Duration of crossing: 40 minutes.

Frequency: Every day, every hour on the hour, 7am-6pm, all weather.

General itinerary: 12km journey across Port Phillip Bay between Queenscliff and Sorrento.

Contact: Jack Mackeddie, Managing DirectorBusiness: Peninsula Searoad Transport Pty LtdAddress: 1 Wharf St East, Queenscliff VIC 3225Phone: +61 3 5258 3244 Fax: +61 3 5258 1877Email: [email protected]: www.queenscliff-sorrento-ferry.com.au

COLLECTION: Queenscliff and Sorrento

TORquAYsurf World torquay - the story of surfing

Description: See monster waves from Bells Beach and other big wave spots around the globe at the Surf World Museum in Torquay. Surf World tells the story of surfing and is home to The Australian Surfing Hall of Fame as well as other colourful and exciting exhibits from the world of surfing.

Type of operation: Surf and Beach Culture Museum.

Location: 1 hour 30 minutes drive from Melbourne via Princes Fwy, located in Surf City Plaza, behind Torquay’s surf shopping centre.

Opening times: Open daily from 9am-5pm. Advance bookings required for guided tours.

Facilities: Theatrette seating 70 visitors, gift shop and visitor centre.

Contact: CoordinatorBusiness: Surf World Museum TorquayAddress: Surf City Plaza, Torquay VIC 3228Phone: +61 3 5261 4606 Fax: +61 3 5261 4219Email: [email protected]: www.surfworld.com.au

APOllO BAYcape otWay lightstation

Description: Climb to the top of mainland Australia’s oldest lighthouse (1848) & experience the heart-pounding thrill of the view from the balcony 90 metres above the surging waters of Bass Strait and the Southern Ocean. Tour the historic Telegraph Station (1859) & other historic buildings. Enjoy the Lightkeepers 4WD Shipwreck tour and see koalas & kangaroos in the bush of nearby Great Otway National Park. Whale watching May to October.

Type of operation: Lighthouse Tours/Accommodation/Café.

Location: 3 hrs 30 mins from Melbourne via the Great Ocean Road.

Opening times: From 9am-5pm daily.

Facilities: Accommodation available in original keepers’ cottages. Café - home-made meals and refreshments.

Contact: Paul Thompson, ManagerBusiness: Cape Otway LightstationAddress: Lighthouse Rd, Cape Otway VIC 3233Phone: +61 3 5237 9240Fax: +61 3 5237 9245Email: [email protected]: www.lightstation.com

queenscliffdive victoria

Description: Victoria is a world class scuba diving destination. With over 120 different sites to choose from within easy access to Queenscliff. Reef dives, sea walls, marine parks, seafood dives, shipwrecks, submarines and a scuttled Australian Navy warship, the exHMAS Canberra.

Type of operation: Dive and snorkel charters and divers’ accommodation lodge.

Duration of tours: 2 hours to multi-day.

Frequency of tours: Everyday, subject to numbers and weather.

General itineraries: Each dive typically takes 2.5 hours, multiple trips depart daily up to three dives per day possible.

Contact: Fiona Holding, ManagerBusiness: Dive VictoriaAddress: Shop 1/6 Queenscliff Harbour, Queenscliff VIC 3225Phone: +61 3 5258 4188 Fax: +61 3 5258 3273Email: [email protected]: www.divevictoria.com.au

COLLECTION: Mel city, Melb & Avalon A’port PAX: 100 CHARTER: Y

One of Australia’s iconic long distance walks and a keyexperience along the popular Great Southern Touring Route,the Great Ocean Walk offers a unique opportunity for hikersto step on and step off the track and take advantage offantastic accommodation and services packages developedespecially for walkers.

You can make the first footprints of the day on a beach, enjoystunning views from the dramatic coastal cliffs, then stay thenight in luxury accommodation, enjoy a meal, bottle of wineor a massage and be ready next morning to tackle another legof this remarkable journey.

Whatever you want to see,however you want to walk it -the Great Ocean Walk is anexperience that will stay withyou forever.

• Official Great Ocean Walk Partners are identified in thisTrade Manual by the logo.

• For further information, updates, packages andsuggested itineraries:

www.greatoceanwalk.com.au

Join three remarkable people John Francis, the Planetwalker who for almost three decades travelledthe world on foot, Katarina Witt the flamboyant Olympic figure skater and Michael Milton, the fastestAustralian skier in history, as they embark on a journey along 104kms of Australia's most spectacularcoastal walk The Great Ocean Walk. Follow their footsteps at www.theartofwalking.com.au

Where the Great Ocean Road heads inland, the Great Ocean Walk continues to hug thespectacular coastline allowing walkers to experience deserted sandy beaches, isolatedcliff tops, abundant wildlife and tall forest gullies.

For more on Victoria’s parks and waterways, visitwww.parkweb.vic.gov.au

GREAT OCEAN WALKV I C T O R I A A U S T R A L I A

T H E A R T O F W A L K I N G

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ATTRACTIONS & ACCOMMOdATION • GeelONG & GReAT OCeAN ROAd

Beech fOResTotWay fly tree top Walk & café

Description: The Otway Fly is the world’s longest & tallest tree canopy walk. This 600 metre long canopy walk is nestled in the rainforest of the Otway Ranges in Victoria. The structure gradually takes you above ground level where at the top of the spiral tower lookout you will be 47 metres above the ground and will have crossed pristine Youngs Creek. Once back on ground level enjoy a meal in the café & browse through the gift shop.

Type of operation: Tree top walk attraction, café, gift shop and visitor centre.

Location: 2 hrs 30 mins drive from Melbourne via Princes Hwy.

3 hrs 30 mins drive from Melbourne via Great Ocean Road.

Opening times: 9am daily (except Christmas Day).

Contact: Elaine Burridge, ManagerBusiness: Otway Fly Pty LtdAddress: Phillips Track, Beech Forest VIC 3237 PO Box 329, Apollo Bay VIC 3233Phone: +61 3 5235 9200 Fax: +61 3 5235 9388Email: [email protected]: www.otwayfly.com.au

TORquAYcroWne plaza torquay

Description: Crowne Plaza Torquay, on Victoria’s Surf Coast, blends ultra-modern comfort with the area’s natural beauty. Set amongst lush gardens, this beachfront 164 room hotel offers a range of quality accommodation. Enjoy the day spa, gym, large indoor and outdoor pools, café, cocktail lounge and stunning top floor restaurant with panoramic ocean views.

Location: 1 hour 15 minutes drive from Melbourne.

Distance from attractions: Walking distance/short drive.

Dining facilities: Seasalt restaurant, Sandbar cocktail lounge, Whitewater café (open summer).

Recreational facilities: Indoor and outdoor pools, tennis court, Tea Tree Day Spa, conference rooms, children’s playground.

Business: Crowne Plaza TorquayAddress: 100 The Esplanade, Torquay VIC 3228Phone: +61 3 5261 1500 Fax: +61 3 5264 7250Email: [email protected]: www.crowneplaza.com.au

TYPE: Hotel ROOMS: 164 BEDS: 196 EST: 2008

wOngARRAa great ocean road resort Whitecrest

Description: Contemporary luxury self catering apartments with superb ocean views, including private spa, gas log fire and barbeque on deck.

Location: Whitecrest is located at Wongarra 175 kms south-west of Melbourne and 12kms east of Apollo Bay, on the Great Ocean Road, overlooking Bass Strait.

Distance from attractions: 10 minutes to Apollo Bay, 20 minutes to the Lightstation and 1 hour to the Twelve Apostles.

Access to public transport: Train from Melbourne.

Dining facilities: Self catering.

Recreational facilities: Tennis court, solar heated pool, table tennis, snooker/billiards.

Contact: Frank van der Peet and Veronica KoenigBusiness: A Great Ocean Road Resort Whitecrest Address: 5230 Great Ocean Road, Wongarra VIC 3221Phone: +61 3 5237 0228 Fax: +61 3 5237 0245Email: [email protected]: www.whitecrestonline.com.au

TYPE: Resort/Self Catering APTS: 14 BEDS: 20 EST: 2005

lORnemantra erskine beach resort

Description: Located on absolute beachfront, in the historic seaside town of Lorne. The resort is the perfect base to explore the Great Ocean Road, including the Twelve Apostles, with an onsite day spa, indoor lap pool and spa, brasserie and lounge bar with open fire.

Location: On the Lorne main strip, 2 hours drive from Melbourne. Stop off on your way to or from the nearby Great Ocean Walk.

Distance from attractions: Minutes walk from boutique stores, trendy cafés, galleries, bars and restaurants. Central to attractions along the Great Ocean Road incl. Bells Beach, waterfalls, rainforests.

Recreational facilities: Full resort facilities including onsite brasserie and bar, an 18-hole putting green, lawn bowls, croquet, tennis courts, gymnasium, indoor heated pool and spa.

Contact: Reservations ManagerBusiness: Mantra Erksine Beach Resort Address: Mountjoy Pde, Lorne VIC 3232Phone: +61 3 5228 9777 Fax: +61 3 5228 9752Email: [email protected]: www.mantraerskinebeachresort.com.au

TYPE: Resort APTS: 277 BEDS: 554 EST: 2005

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ACCOMMOdATION • GeelONG & GReAT OCeAN ROAd

APOllO BAYbeacon point ocean vieW villas

Description: Enjoy the spectacular ocean views while surrounded by the beautiful countryside of the Otway Ranges. Our 1 or 2BR villas offer a luxury accommodation experience. Log fires, spas, air-con, private BBQs and outdoor settings. Relax in a private villa and indulge in the region’s finest wines or explore the many famous attractions in the surrounding areas.

Location: 3 hours from Melbourne via Princes Fwy and the Great Ocean Road.

Distance from attractions: 15 minutes by car.

Access to public transport: Train and coach from Melbourne.

Dining facilities: Breakfast hampers available.

Chris’s Restaurant conveniently located right next door.

Contact: Paul Yeaman, ManagerBusiness: Beacon Point Ocean View VillasAddress: 270 Skenes Creek Rd, Apollo Bay VIC 3233Phone: +61 3 5237 6218 Fax: +61 3 5237 6196Email: [email protected]: www.beaconpoint.com.au AAATourism: HHHH

TYPE: S/C Villas VILLAS: 18 BEDS: 39 EST: 1976

APOllO BAYchris’s restaurant & villas

Description: Overlooking Bass Strait, set high in the Otways above the Great Ocean Road, Chris’s Restaurant and Villas have become the Mecca for gourmet travellers. Architecturally stunning with panoramic sea views, Chris’s Restaurant and Villas have been operating since 1979.

Location: 2 hours from Melbourne via Ring Road.

Distance from attractions: 15 minutes by car.


Dining facilities: A la carte, informal, fine-dining with a contemporary Southern European influence, including game and locally caught specialities. Functions and receptions up to 90 people.

Contact: Philip Talihmanidis, ManagerBusiness: Chris’s Restaurant and VillasAddress: 280 Skenes Creek Rd, Apollo Bay VIC 3233Phone: +61 3 5237 6411 Fax: +61 3 5237 6930Email: [email protected]: www.chriss.com.au AAATourism: HHHH

TYPE: Villas & Studios APTS: 8 BEDS: 18 EST: 1979

gReAT OceAn ROAdbothfeet Walking lodge

Description: bothfeet combines tranquil luxury with world-class hiking. Only 10 guests at a time enjoy this eco-chic sustainable lodge set in a rainforest amphitheatre. Included daily guided Great Ocean Walks showcases the best the Australian coast has to offer.

Location: Located at Johanna, just 1km from the trail.

Distance from attractions: Walking distance.

Access to public transport: Visitors can self drive or use the optional transfers from Melbourne.

Dining facilities: Live in chef.

Recreational facilities: Guest lounge, licensed dining room, 2 dedicated massage treatment rooms, gear drying room & storage facilities and nearly 2km of on property rainforest walks and wildlife.

Contact: Dana Ronan, DirectorBusiness: bothfeetAddress: PO Box 315, Daylesford VIC 3460Phone: +61 3 5334 0688 or 1300 767 416 Fax: +61 3 5334 0689 or 1300 767 419Email: [email protected] Web: www.bothfeet.com.au

TYPE: Lodge ROOMS: 5 BEDS: 10 EST: 2008

APOllO BAYseafarers getaWay

Description: Six star views from every unit - overlooking stunning Apollo Bay, on world-famous Great Ocean Road.

20 fully self-contained lodges and studio units. Enjoy Seafarers’ own beach, or relax on your private deck overlooking 7 hectares of rolling hills and trout fishing dams. Beautiful walk to Apollo Bay’s pubs/restaurants (3km away) and Otway Fly, just a 45 minute drive.

Location: Exclusive Great Ocean Road frontage and views, own beach, 2 hours 30 minutes from Melbourne via Geelong.

Distance from attractions: Walking distance to township, stunning drives to the Twelve Apostles, Otway Fly etc.

Access to public transport: Coach from Geelong.

Contact: Maria McQuinn, ManagerBusiness: Seafarers GetawayAddress: 6080 Great Ocean Road, Apollo Bay VIC 3233Phone: +61 3 5237 6507 Fax: +61 3 5237 7061Email: [email protected]: www.seafarers.com.au

TYPE: Lodges & Studios ROOMS: 20 BEDS: 73 EST: 1984


Warrnambool & Great Ocean RoadSoar to new heights!

> Hovering over the Twelve Apostles


20 min

1hour

11/2 hours

40 min45min

20 min

HamiltonHamilton

Ararat

Portland

Geelong

Ballarat

Melbourne

BASS STRAIT



Halls Gap

Heywood

PortFairy

Mortlake

Timboon

Port Campbell

Camperdown

Colac

Werribee

Anglesea

Cape Otway

Lorne

Apollo Bay

Torquay

Stawell

Dunkeld

Warrnambool

GREAT OCEAN ROAD

GOLDFIELDSGRAMPIANS


There are few “must do’s” along

the Great Ocean Road quite like

the fabled Twelve Apostles.

They are a wonder of nature,

carved out of the Australian

mainland by the irresistible

elements to provide one of

Australia’s truly stunning coastal

landscapes, especially at sunrise

and sunset.

Just after Apollo Bay, the Great Ocean Road

briefl y leaves the coastline to meander

through the Great Otway National Park

and past Melba Gully where glow worms

perform their party tricks at night.

Shortly after the road rejoins the coast

at Princetown a procession of wondrous

natural attractions fi ll the horizon.

As well as the Twelve Apostles, there are

the roaring blowholes and majestic gorges.

One of those, Loch Ard Gorge, stands

testament to the region’s reputation as the

Shipwreck Coast.

The story of the Loch Ard and its fatal, fi nal

journey is told each night in a stunning

show in Warrnambool at the Flagstaff Hill

Maritime Museum.

Warrnambool is also famous as a whale

nursery, Southern Right Whales coming to

Logans Beach each winter to give birth to

their calves.

Tower Hill is also famous for its wildlife, all

nestled in the crater of a dormant volcano.

Port Fairy is a seaside village straight out of

a postcard. Situated on the Moyne River and

still a working fi shing port, it is the home of

many fi ne buildings from the 19th century.

> Port Campbell National Park & Surrounds1. The mighty Apostles: Visitors just can’t

go past the Twelve Apostles. See them from

the viewing platforms, or from a helicopter.

2. Island dreaming: The Bay of Islands

is absolutely stunning at either sunrise or

sunset – and all the other times in between.

3. Seaside surprises: Port Campbell has

become a great little seaside resort town

in its own right with its sheltered beach,

restaurants and great shopping.

4. Stepping down: Take a walk down

Gibson Steps for a completely different

view of the Twelve Apostles.

> Warrnambool & Surrounds5. A whale of a time: At Logans Beach,

a viewing platform has been built to allow

visitors to look out on the Southern Right

Whales that come here every year between

June and September to give birth to

their calves.

6. Wildlife: Kangaroos, koalas, emus and a host of other native animals roam free around Tower Hill, a dormant volcano. The climb to the top of the volcano offers fantastic views of the coastline to Port Fairy and beyond.

7. Shipwrecked: At Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village visitors can step right back into a 19th century seaside village complete with an undertaker. The Shipwrecked sound and laser show on a huge aqua screen is amust do.

> Port Fairy8. Village life: Take a magical walk around what is arguably one of the prettiest villages in the region. Eat fi sh and chips on the wharf, or try a fi ne dining experience in the centre of town.

9. Flight of the Shearwaters: Griffi ths Island is the nightly landing place of tens of thousands of shearwaters. These birds travel the world before returning to this island every year to breed.

> Portland10. Into the blue: Portland has the only helicopter operator in Australia offering Blue

Whale watching fl ights.


> Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village> Whale watching

> Gibson Steps

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ATTRACTIONS • WARRNAMBOOl & GReAT OCeAN ROAd

PORT cAmPBell12 apostles helicopters

Description: Experience a breathtaking flight over the most spectacular coastal scenery in Australia. 12 Apostles Helicopters on Victoria’s Great Ocean Road, offers you a unique opportunity to see the entire Shipwreck Coast and Port Campbell NP in style. Perhaps a journey over the 12 Apostles, a flight to the Bay of Islands via London Bridge, or take in the beauty of the entire Shipwreck Coast all the way to the Cape Otway Lighthouse. We offer the highest level of safety and service to make this an experience of a lifetime.

Type of operation: Scenic Flights.

Location: Adjacent to the 12 Apostles Visitor Centre & Carpark, 12 Apostles, Great Ocean Road, Port Campbell, Victoria.

Opening times: 9am-4.30pm (later in summer).

Facilities: Wheelchair accessible, online ticketing & vouchers.

Contact: Richard Nesseler, Managing DirectorBusiness: 12 Apostles HelicoptersAddress: ‘Glenample’, Princetown VIC 3269Phone: 1800 APOSTLES or +61 3 5598 8283Email: [email protected]: www.12apostleshelicopters.com.au

wARRnAmBOOlflagstaff hill maritime village & sound/laser shoW

Description: By day - an interactive 1870s maritime village and museum. It offers a glimpse of the time when the seas were the super highway and the coast became known as the Shipwreck Coast. By night - world-class sound and laser show ‘Shipwrecked’ which relives the tragedy and triumph of the ill-fated clipper ‘Loch Ard’ and the dramatic history of the Great Ocean Road. Accommodation available in Lighthouse Lodge (see ad on page 15).

Type of operation: Maritime Village plus Sound and Laser Show.

Location: 3 hrs 30 mins drive from Melbourne via Princes Hwy.

Entrance fee inclusions: By Day Flagstaff Hill - Entrance to village and all exhibits. By Night Shipwrecked - Entrance to Sound and Laser show. Bookings essential.

Awards: Hall of Fame 2009 Victorian Tourism Awards.

Contact: Bookings/ReceptionBusiness: Flagstaff Hill Maritime VillageAddress: Merri St, Warrnambool VIC 3280Phone: +61 3 5559 4600 Fax: +61 3 5559 4613Email: [email protected]: www.flagstaffhill.com

TOweR hillWorn gundidj

Description: Come inside Victoria’s first National Park, a volcanic crater and international site of geological significance with ash layers showing Aboriginal people existed at the time of eruption some 30,000 years ago. Experienced local guides offer enjoyable activities suited to independent travellers, families, buses or school groups. Engage with Australian wildlife in their natural habitat whilst gaining a better understanding of native vegetation, Aboriginal lifestyles, food and medicine.

Type of operation: Guided activities connecting people with nature and culture.

Location: Princes Highway between Warrnambool and Port Fairy.

Opening Times: 9am-5pm weekdays, 10am-4pm weekends and Public Holidays. Daily guided experiences by prior arrangement.

Contact: Tourism ManagerBusiness: Tower Hill/Worn GundidjAddress: Princes Hwy, Tower Hill VIC 3283Phone: +61 3 5565 9202 or +61 428 318 836 Fax: +61 3 5561 5715Email: [email protected] W: www.worngundidj.org.au

PORTlAndheli-explore

Description: Heli-explore’s high quality tours operate from November to May, with a sighting rate better than 95%. We are perfectly placed for quick access to the summer feeding grounds of the Blue Whales, the largest creatures to have ever existed. Heli-explore’s tours are spectacular, serene and awe-inspiring experiences that will never be forgotten.

Type of operation: Helicopter Blue Whale watching.

Location: From Portland Airport, to the Bonney Upwelling Region of Western Bass Strait.

Opening times: Daily flights depart hourly 9am-5pm must be pre-booked.

Facilities: Toilet, waiting room, qualified child minding by prior arrangement only.

Contact: Jacqui (bookings), Reception/LoadmasterBusiness: Heli-exploreAddress: Portland Airport, Bridgewater Lakes Rd, Portland VIC 3305Phone: +61 3 5526 5444 Fax: +61 3 5521 7193Email: [email protected]: www.heliexplore.com.au

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ACCOMMOdATION • WARRNAMBOOl & GReAT OCeAN ROAd

PORT cAmPBellsouthern ocean villas

Description: Experience Port Campbell’s newest accommodation. 20 architect-designed fully self-contained luxury 3BR villas. Outdoor deck, email/internet connection, BBQ, TV/DVD, fully equipped kitchen, reverse cycle air-conditioning, QS beds, private laundry facilities. Situated on the edge of Port Campbell National Park within 5 minutes walking distance of town centre and beach.

Location: 5 hours from Melbourne via Great Ocean Road; 3 hours via Princes Hwy.

Distance from attractions: Walking distance to town centre and beach. 10 minutes drive to the Twelve Apostles.

Dining facilities: Short walk to a selection of cafés and restaurants. Full kitchen facilities in each villa.

Contact: Damian Fusea, ManagerBusiness: Southern Ocean Villas Address: 2 McCue St, Port Campbell VIC 3269Phone: +61 3 5598 4200 Fax: +61 3 5598 4299Email: [email protected]: www.southernoceanvillas.com AAATourism: HHHH

TYPE: FSC Villas ROOMS: 20 BEDS: 80 EST: 2004

wARRnAmBOOllady bay resort

Description: A seaside escape. Stylish, comfortable and modern fully self contained 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, or hotel rooms and suites, with magnificent ocean and river views. Location: Situated at the end of the Great Ocean Road in the town of Warrnambool. Approximately 270km west of Melbourne.

Distance from attractions: Minutes from the CBD, wonderful beaches and the Lake Pertobe Parks, ocean walks and fishing.

Access to public transport: Bus directly at the front entrance.

Dining facilities: Bar, restaurant, conference/wedding facilities.Recreational facilities: Endota day spa, swimming pool and spa, walking promenade and fishing beaches.

Contact: Jon Watson, ManagerBusiness: Lady Bay ResortAddress: 2 Pertobe Rd, Warrnambool VIC 3280Phone: +61 3 5562 1662 Fax: +61 3 5561 7144Email: [email protected]: www.ladybayresortwarrnambool.com

TYPE: Resort Apartments APTS: 65 BEDS: 160 EST: 2004

wARRnAmBOOlflagstaff hill lighthouse lodge

Description: Be the Warrnambool lighthouse keeper for the night. Adjacent to the state heritage listed Warrnambool Lighthouses, Lighthouse Lodge is a 3BR historic building with a contemporary refurbishment. S/C facilities, including ensuites in each room allow guests to soak in the historic location whilst enjoying modern facilities.

Location: Merri St, Warrnambool, adjacent to award-winning Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village, 3 hrs 30 mins drive from Melbourne.

Distance from attractions: 100m to entrance of Flagstaff Hill Maritime Village and Warrnambool Visitor Information Centre.

Access to public transport: 1.5km from V/Line station, local bus stop 100m.

Dining facilities: Self contained or Pippies by the Bay 100m.

Contact: Peter Abbott, ManagerBusiness: Flagstaff Hill Maritime VillageAddress: 83 Merri St, Warrnambool VIC 3280Phone: +61 3 5559 4600 Fax: +61 3 5559 4613Email: [email protected] Web: www.lighthouselodge.com.au

TYPE: S/C Lodge ROOMS: 3 BEDS: 3 EST: 2010

wARRnAmBOOl country comfort Warrnambool mid city

Description: Country Comfort Warrnambool Mid City is centrally located, at the western end of the Great Ocean Road. Lounge bar with gas fire and an excellent restaurant open six days a week. Free Austar TV. Walking distance from Warrnambool’s key attractions including the beach, Lake Pertobe, restaurants, shops and city centre.

Location: 3 hours 30 minutes from Melbourne via Princes Hwy.

5 hours 30 minutes via Great Ocean Road.

Distance from attractions: Walking distance to city centre, restaurants, shopping and nightlife. 2 minutes to beach, Flagstaff Hill, Lake Pertobe. 10 minute drive to Tower Hill.


Contact: ReceptionBusiness: Country Comfort Warrnambool Mid CityAddress: 525 Raglan Pde, Warrnambool VIC 3280Phone: +61 3 5562 3866 Fax: +61 3 5562 0923Email: [email protected]: www.countrycomforthotels.com AAATourism: HHHI

TYPE: Motel ROOMS: 61 BEDS: 101 EST: 1963

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ACCOMMOdATION • WARRNAMBOOl & GReAT OCeAN ROAd

PORT fAiRYhearns cottage suites

Description: Indulge in four and a half star luxury accommodation in the centre of historic seaside village, Port Fairy.

Timber and sandstone suites and apartments - beautifully appointed with leather furnishings and granite bathrooms - some with spas, gas log fi res and full kitchen facilities.

Location: From Melbourne, 6 hours drive via Great Ocean Road,4 hours via Princes Hwy or Hamilton Hwy. Distance from attractions: Walking distance.

Access to public transport: Coach and train.

Contact: Russell KingBusiness: Hearns Cottage SuitesAddress: 54 Bank St, Port Fairy VIC 3284Phone: +61 3 5568 1066 Fax: +61 3 5568 1066Email: [email protected]: www.hearnscottages.com.au AAATourism: HHHHI

TYPE: S/C Apts/Cottages ROOMS: 7 BEDS: 7 EST: 1988

PORT fAiRYoscars Waterfront boutique hotel

Description: Oscars Waterfront Boutique Hotel is situated in the heart of Port Fairy, with frontage to the Moyne River. Oscars style is French Provincial and features seven individually decorated king-size rooms, generous ensuites, gourmet breakfast prepared by our resident chef and grand drawing room offering privacy for that perfect getaway.

Location: 4 hours from Melbourne via Princes Hwy.

Guest amenities: TV, bar fridge and air-conditioning in all rooms. Plunger coffee and herbal tea available all day.

Accommodation: King Size beds with featherdown doonas.

Dining: Gourmet breakfast 7 days between 8am-9.30am.

Contact: Richard and Sally Douglas, Owners/ManagersBusiness: Oscars Waterfront Boutique Hotel Address: 41B Gipps St, Port Fairy VIC 3284Phone: +61 3 5568 3022 Fax: +61 3 5568 3042Email: [email protected]: www.oscarswaterfront.com AAATourism: HHHHI

TYPE: Boutique Hotel ROOMS: 7 BEDS: 7 EST: 2000

wARRnAmBOOlthe sebel deep blue Warrnambool

Description: Perfectly positioned on a peninsula between Lady Bay and Stingray Bay. The hotel offers stylish accommodation featuring private balconies, many with breathtaking views.

Location: Distance from Melbourne 264kms.Distance to Warrnambool town centre 1.5 kms.

Distance from attractions: Distance to beach 100m. 1 hour drive to the Twelve Apostles. Within close proximity to a number of attractions within Warrnambool and the Great Ocean Road.

Dining facilities: Water Table Restaurant & Bar.

Recreational facilities: Indoor heated pool, gymnasium, spa, Deep Water Bath House and Day Spa.

Contact: Reservations ManagerBusiness: The Sebel Deep Blue WarrnamboolAddress: 16 Pertobe Road, Warrnambool VIC 3280Phone: +61 3 5559 2000 Fax: +61 3 5559 2111Email: [email protected] Web: www.mirvachotels.com AAATourism: HHHHI

TYPE: Resort ROOMS: 80 BEDS: 80+ EST: 2007

PORT fAiRYthe victoria apartments

Description: Port Fairy’s fi nest selection of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom apartments, perfect for overnight or extended stays. Surrounded by many fantastic restaurants and shops and only minutes to the river and surf beaches.

Location: 4 hours from Melbourne on the Princes Hwy.



Dining facilities: Fully equipped kitchens in all apartment style rooms. Kitchenettes in all 1 bedroom suites.

Contact: ReservationsBusiness: The Victoria ApartmentsAddress: 48-50 Bank St, Port Fairy VIC 3284Phone: +61 3 5568 1160 Fax: +61 3 5568 1177Email: [email protected]: www.thevictoria.com.au AAATourism: HHHHI

TYPE: Apartments ROOMS: 35 BEDS: 90 EST: 2007

Our hotels are independently owned and operated, to offer local knowledge and help you discover the secrets that make this one of Australia’s most popular destinations. Call 131 779 or visit bestwestern.com.au

Best Value. Best Service. Best Western.

APOLLO BAY | BALLARAT | GEELONG | HAMILTON | LORNE | MELBOURNEPORT CAMPBELL | PORT FAIRY | PORTLAND | WARRNAMBOOL

For bookings contact your local professional travel agent. Accredited agents email [email protected]


Grampians National Park & SurroundsGet active, this is the place for wildlife and adventure travel!

> Taking a walk, Grampians National Park


20 min

11/2 hours

45 min

HamiltonHamilton

Portland

Geelong

Ballarat

Melbourne

BASS STRAIT

National ParkPort CampbellPrincetown

Halls Gap

Penshurst

Heywood

PortFairy

Port Campbell

Ararat

Werribee

Anglesea

Cape Otway

Lorne

Apollo Bay

Torquay

Stawell

Dunkeld

Warrnambool

GREAT OCEAN ROAD

GOLDFIELDSGRAMPIANS

Go kayaking, bushwalking and

rock-climbing. Visitors can do

these activities by themselves, or

be part of a guided adventure tour.

Of course, for those who want

something easier then there are

gentle walks to lookouts offering

breathtaking mountain scenery.

The Grampians National Park has been

400 million years in the making. It is home

to the largest collection of Aboriginal rock

art in Southern Australia.

The Brambuk Aboriginal Culture Centre,

perfectly set in Halls Gap bushland,

provides deep and moving insights into the

history of the region’s fi rst inhabitants.

Waterfalls are another feature of the

Grampians National Park. The best known

and most visited of these is MacKenzie

Falls, one of four in the MacKenzie

River Gorge.

Spring, when the falls are framed by

wildfl owers, is a good time to visit Beehive

Falls, an easy walk from Roses Gap.

Wildlife abounds in the national park and

twilight bush walks offer the chance to see

more than 200 bird species plus mobs of

kangaroos and emus.

Fine local food and wines are also a key

feature of the region. They can be found

on the menus of fi ne dining restaurants

in friendly towns like Hamilton, Ararat,

Stawell and Halls Gap. There’s also one

unforgettable dining experience – at

Dunkelds award-winning Royal Mail Hotel.

> Grampians National Park1. Fall in love: Take the easy 30 minute

walk to MacKenzie Falls.

2. Aboriginal culture: The Brambuk

Aboriginal Cultural Centre offers insights into

the lives of the original inhabitants. Try some

of the bush tucker specials in the restaurant.

3. Top drop: Visit the underground “drives”

housing hundreds of thousands of bottles

of sparkling wine at Great Western, or visit

some of the many above ground wineries

spread around the Grampians, the Pyrenees

and the Henty regions.

4. China town: Ararat is the only Australian

town established by the Chinese. The story

of these pioneers is told at the Gum San

Chinese Heritage Centre.

5. Geo-normous: The Kanawinka Geopark

includes the Byaduk Caves near Hamilton.

Other key features are Mt Eccles,

Mt Napier, Mt Elephant, Tower Hill, Wannon

and Nigretta Falls.

6. Fine art: The Hamilton Art Gallery has

a marvellous collection of Australian and

European artworks as well as works in

silver, porcelain and glass.

7. Above the clouds: The Pinnacle Walk

offers unbeatable views of the Grampians

National Park.

8. Guiding you through: Take a guided

adventure tour – kayaking, bushwalking,

or trail-running.

9. Wildlife: Wartook Valley, Halls Gap are

just two of the early morning and late

afternoon spots where visitors are virtually

guaranteed to see gazing kangaroos and

roaming emus. Keep cameras on hand!

10. Wildfl owers: A third of Victoria’s

wildfl owers are found in the Grampians and

spring is when they are at there peak and

can be seen along most roadsides.


> Winery> Aboriginal rock art

> Hamilton Art Gallery

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ATTRACTIONS & ACCOMMOdATION • GRAMPIANS

hAmilTOnhamilton art gallery

Description: For the best gallery experience in Australia, discover Hamilton’s diverse, historic and contemporary collections in six modern galleries. Enjoy exhibitions of silver, porcelain, glass, oriental ceramics, European and Australian paintings and prints. The collection of 8,000 artworks is complemented with an excellent program of touring exhibitions.

Type of operation: Art Gallery.

Location: 1 hour from Warrnambool, 15 minutes from Dunkeld, walking distance to Hamilton Botanic Gardens.

Opening times: Monday to Friday 10am-5pm. Saturday 10am-noon and 2pm-5pm. Sunday 2pm-5pm. Closed Good Friday, Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day.

Access to public transport: V/Line or airline from Melbourne.

Contact: Helen Brian, Promotions OfficerBusiness: Hamilton Art GalleryAddress: 107 Brown St, Hamilton VIC 3300Phone: +61 3 5573 0460 Fax: +61 3 5571 1017Email: [email protected]: www.hamiltongallery.org

ARARAT gum san chinese heritage centre

Description: The dramatic two-storied Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre, with its authentic Chinese tiled roof, houses a fascinating selection of interactive audio-visual and static displays in English and Mandarin. It tells the story of the amazing alluvial gold discovery at Ararat by prospectors from Southern China. Discover the fun and delight of gold panning, try your hand at calligraphy, learn about the Chinese language and play traditional Chinese games. See the wonderful textiles, embroideries and relics of this rich culture. A truly interactive experience for visitors of all ages.

Type of operation: Cultural/Heritage Centre, Museum, Shop.

Location: 2 hours 15 minutes from Melbourne via Ballarat.

Opening times: 10am-4.30pm daily (except Christmas Day).

Access to public transport: Train to/from Melbourne/Ballarat/Ararat.

Contact: Heather Ahpee, Centre Co-ordinatorBusiness: Gum San Chinese Heritage CentreAddress: 31-33 Lambert St (Western Hwy), Ararat VIC 3377Phone: +61 3 5352 1078 Fax: +61 3 5352 4906Email: [email protected]: www.gumsan.com.au

dunkeldroyal mail hotel

Description: The Royal Mail offers modern accommodation with magnificent views of the Southern Grampians. The award-winning restaurant (Australian Gourmet Traveller Regional Restaurant of the Year 2009 & 2010), features creative contemporary cuisine and one of Australia’s most extensive collections of wines.

Also featuring eight cottages at the Mt Sturgeon Estate, an historic operating sheep station at the base of Mt Sturgeon.

Location: 3 hours from Melbourne via Ballarat.

Distance from attractions: 5 minutes to Grampians National Park.

Access to public transport: Coach from Melbourne.

Dining facilities: Award-winning restaurant, bistro and bar.

Recreational facilities: Pool, walking tracks, native animals.

Contact: Julianne BagnatoBusiness: Royal Mail Hotel/Mt Sturgeon EstateAddress: Parker St, Dunkeld VIC 3294Phone: +61 3 5577 2241 Fax: +61 3 5577 2577Email: [email protected]: www.royalmail.com.au AAATourism: HHHH

TYPE: Boutique Hotel ROOMS: 25 BEDS: 57 EST: 1997

hAlls gAPbrambuk - the national park & cultural centre

Description: This impressive centre brings to life the history and culture of the Jardwadjali and Djab Wurrung Aboriginal communities of South-Western Victoria, and offers visitors a range of activities and tours as well as information on Aboriginal cultural heritage, local rock art sites and the Grampians National Park.

Tours: Bunjil Creation Tour - learn the Dreamtime Creation story and visit the resting place of Bunjil. Duration: 3 hours. Six Seasons Tour - be immersed in Aboriginal culture and the beauty of the Grampians landscape. Duration: 5.5 hours. (Both tours are available daily upon request)

Type of operation: Aboriginal Cultural and Information Centre.

Location: 3 hours from Melbourne on the Western Hwy via Ararat.

Opening times: 9am-5pm, 7 days a week.

Contact: Jeremy ClarkBusiness: Brambuk - The National Park & Cultural CentreAddress: 277 Grampians Rd, Halls Gap VIC 3381Phone: +61 3 5361 4000 Fax: +61 3 5356 4455Email: [email protected]: www.brambuk.com.au

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ACCOMMOdATION • GRAMPIANS

hAlls gAPboroka doWns

Description: Kangaroos, abundant birdlife and wonderful views by day, log fire and spa by night. For the most discerning of couples, Boroka Downs represents five-star architecturally designed quality in every detail. Environmentally sensitive and providing privacy and the ultimate in luxury and comfort. Property borders the National Park.

Location: 3 hours from Melbourne via Ballarat and Ararat or via the Great Ocean Road.

Distance from attractions: 7km to Halls Gap.

Dining facilities: Residences have a gourmet kitchen, espresso coffee machine and BBQ. Breakfast provisions included.

Recreation activities: Wineries, walks, bird-watching, rock climbing, Aboriginal art and culture. 4WD tours.

Contact: Stephanie and Bob Adams, OwnersBusiness: Boroka DownsAddress: Birdswing Rd, Halls Gap VIC 3381Phone: +61 3 5356 6243 Fax: +61 3 5356 6343Email: [email protected]: www.borokadowns.com.au AAATourism: HHHHH

TYPE: S/C Residences ROOMS: 5 BEDS: 5 EST: 2000

hAlls gAPd’altons resort

Description: D’altons Resort has fully self-contained cottages each with sleeping accommodation for 2-6 people. Set on 27 acres of semi-bushland in the heart of Halls Gap. Kangaroos and deer roam the property. All cottages are fully air conditioned.

Location: 3 hours 15 minutes from Melbourne on the

Western Hwy via Ballarat and Ararat.



Dining facilities: Fully-equipped kitchen.

Recreational facilities: Swimming pool, tennis court, conference room, children’s playground.

Contact: David Sears, Managing DirectorBusiness: D’altons ResortAddress: Glen St, Halls Gap VIC 3381Phone: +61 3 5356 4666 Fax: +61 3 5356 4611Email: [email protected]: www.daltonsresort.com.au

TYPE: Resort ROOMS: 25 BEDS: 96 EST: 1998

hAlls gAPdulc

Description: DULC are funky designer cabins nestled amid the beauty of the Grampians. Choose from four contemporary cabins; the one and two bedroom Mountain View Cabins are single storey and the Treehouse has an attic in the trees. Location: 3 hours 15 minutes from Melbourne on the Western Hwy via Ballarat and Ararat.



Dining facilities: Fully-equipped kitchen & espresso machines.

Recreational facilities: Each cabin contains king size beds, gas log fires, leather armchairs and couches, spa baths with complimentary Molton Brown toiletries.

Contact: Pru & Simon Farrer, Managing DirectorsBusiness: DULCAddress: 9 Thryptomene Crt, Halls Gap VIC 3381Phone: +61 3 5356 4711 Email: [email protected]: www.dulc.com.au AAATourism: HHHH

TYPE: Resort CABINS: 4 BEDS: 5 EST: 2005

hAlls gAPmountain grand boutique hotel

Description: Set amongst the picturesque Grampians mountains, the Mountain Grand Boutique Hotel has 10 rooms with ensuites and some with spas, all individually decorated to suit the era of when private hotels were called guest houses. The guest house has three lounge areas for guests’ relaxation. An al fresco courtyard, balcony, sundeck and delightful dining room offer grand wining and dining.

Location: 2 hours 30 minutes from Melbourne.



Dining facilities: “The Balconies” Restaurant, Café Grand and Bar.

Recreational facilities: Three guests’ lounge areas. Adjacent to Grampians NP for bushwalking, rock-climbing, fishing and riding.

Contact: Don Calvert, OwnerBusiness: Mountain Grand Boutique HotelAddress: Main Rd, Town Centre, Halls Gap VIC 3381Phone: +61 3 5356 4232 Email: [email protected]: www.mountaingrand.com



Ballarat Goldfi eldsStrike it rich!

> Sovereign Hill, Ballarat


11/2 hours

11/2 hours

20 min

HamiltonHamilton

Portland

Geelong

Ballarat

Melbourne

BASS STRAIT


Halls Gap

Heywood

PortFairy

Port Campbell

Ararat

Werribee

Lorne

Apollo Bay

Torquay

Stawell

Dunkeld

Warrnambool

AvocaMaryborough Castlemaine

Daylesford

Ballan

Smeaton

Creswick

GREAT OCEAN ROAD

GOLDFIELDSGRAMPIANS


Among many claims to fame

and fortune, Ballarat is regarded

as the birthplace of Australian

democracy.

As people came from all over the world to

try their luck in the goldfi elds, at the Eureka

Stockade, a group of miners rose up against

what they felt were unreasonable license

fees.

That battle between the miners and the

troopers has left a stirring legacy in Ballarat,

just as the gold rush has left a great legacy

around the whole region.

Blood on the Southern Cross is a fi ery

sound and light show telling the story of

life on the goldfi elds at the moment of the

uprising.

The Art Gallery of Ballarat houses the

original fl ag under which the miners fought.

At Sovereign Hill, visitors will fi nd a faithful

replica of a 19th century Gold Mining Town.

They can even dress up in 19th century

fashions and stay in the old mining village.

There are lots of towns and villages in the

region whose history and architecture is

also built on gold.

Daylesford and Hepburn Springs combine

together under the title of Australia’s Spa

Capital. This is real lap of luxury stuff. Drink

or bathe in the refreshing waters, have a

massage – pure bliss.

And that’s even before visitors discover

the region’s other gold - wine. Great with

local food found in the many wonderful

restaurants in and around Ballarat.

> Ballarat Goldfi elds1. Round the troops: Blood on the

Southern Cross is a brilliantly produced

re-telling of the Eureka Uprising. The sound

and light show is available in English,

Japanese, German, French and Japanese.

2. A fi ne collection: The Art Gallery of

Ballarat houses a fi ne collection of artworks,

plus the original Eureka Flag.

3. Golden times: At Sovereign Hill, visitors

will travel back in time to the days of the

gold rush.

4. Soothing: Daylesford and Hepburn

Springs are not known as the Spa Capital of

Australia for nothing. Indulge yourself.

5. Where the wild things are: At the

Ballarat Wildlife & Reptile Park, visitors can

feed kangaroos and have their photos taken

with koalas.

6. A fi ne vintage: Wineries are spread

around the region, start your journey in

Ballarat and venture out to Avoca at the

base of the Pyrenees. Additional wineries

are located around Bacchus Marsh.

7. Prime spot: A feature of the Ballarat

Botanic Gardens is the Prime Minister’s

Avenue – a collection of bronze portraits of

all 25 Australian Prime Ministers.

8. Be intrigued: Ballarat podTours are

available to allow you to experience

Ballarat’s fascinating stories, events, people

and culture in a unique way. Pick up your

free podTour from The Art Gallery of Ballarat.

9. Architectual splendour: Ballarat has

some magnifi cent buildings as a result of

the extreme wealth generated by the gold

rush. Take a walk around town to check

them out.

10. Lest we forget: The Avenue of Honour

in Ballarat is the longest in the Southern

Hemisphere. More than 4,000 trees have

been planted in honour of all those in the

Ballarat region who enlisted in the First and

Second World Wars.


> Art Gallery of Ballarat> Local Wine

> Lake Daylesford

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ATTRACTIONS • BAllARAT GOldFIeldS

BAllARATsovereign hill and blood on the southern cross

Description: Strike gold at Sovereign Hill. By day, experience the gold fever that gripped Australia in the 1850s brought to life in our outdoor living museum. By night, see ‘Blood on the Southern Cross’, a spectacular sound and light show, and stay on-site at Sovereign Hill Lodge.

Type of operation: Outdoor museum.

Location: 1 hr 30 mins drive from Melbourne via Western Fwy.

Opening times: Museum: 10am-5pm daily (except Christmas Day). ‘Blood on the Southern Cross’ show: Nightly, (bookings essential).

Access to public transport: Local coach service, train from Melb.

Awards: Winner 2004, 2005 & 2007 Victorian Tourism Awards.

Contact: Garry Burns, Marketing DirectorBusiness: Sovereign HillAddress: Bradshaw St, Ballarat VIC 3350Phone: +61 3 5337 1100 Fax: +61 3 5331 1528Email: [email protected]: www.sovereignhill.com.au

hePBuRn sPRingshepburn bathhouse & spa

Description: Since 1895 the historic Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa has offered bathing in the region’s mineral waters, drawn directly from the spring. This mineral water has long been renowned for its beneficial qualities.

Type of operation: Bathhouse and Day Spa.

Location: Located in charming Hepburn Springs, just 4km from Daylesford, the Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa is nestled in the tranquil surrounds of the Mineral Springs Reserve.

Opening times: 9am-6.30pm every day except Christmas Day. Advance bookings required.

Facilities: Mineral water bathing in the Relaxation & Spa Pool. For a more secluded experience enjoy The Sanctuary with Spa Couches, Aroma Steam Room, Salt Therapy Pool and Monsoon Showers.

Contact: Kim Whitehouse, General ManagerBusiness: Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa Address: Mineral Springs Reserve Rd, Hepburn Springs VIC 3461Phone: +61 3 5321 6000 Fax: +61 3 5348 4795Email: [email protected]: www.hepburnbathhouse.com

BAllARATballarat Wildlife & reptile park

Description: Enjoy close contact with Australian native animals. Feed the free-roaming kangaroos. Free guided tour daily at 11am. crocodile and Tasmanian Devil feedings, koala and wombat photo opportunities.

Type of operation: Wildlife Park.

Location: 75 mins drive from Melbourne via Western Fwy.

Opening times: 9am-5.30pm daily (except Christmas Day).

Access to public transport: Local coach service, train from Melbourne.

Contact: Greg Parker, Managing DirectorBusiness: Ballarat Wildlife & Reptile ParkAddress: Cnr York & Fussell Sts, Ballarat VIC 3354 PO Box 1200, Mail Centre, Ballarat VIC 3354Phone: +61 3 5333 5933Fax: +61 3 5333 4025Email: [email protected]: www.wildlifepark.com.au

BAllARATart gallery of ballarat

Description: Experience the history of Australian art at the country’s oldest and largest regional gallery. Enjoy the fine permanent collection of colonial, impressionist and contemporary masterpieces whilst walking at your own pace using your free iPod tour guide. The gallery also offers an exciting program of temporary exhibitions. Among the gallery’s treasures is the original flag from the 1854 Eureka Stockade, Australia’s only armed civil uprising.

Type of operation: Permanent collection on display, temporary exhibitions. Also gift shop and visitor information.

Location: Located in Ballarat’s CBD.

Opening times: 9am-5pm daily, except Christmas Day.

Access to public transport: 2 minute walk from Ballarat railway station. Trains and buses from Melbourne and Geelong. Check V/Line timetables for other regional centres.

Business: Art Gallery of BallaratAddress: 40 Lydiard St Nth, Ballarat VIC 3350Phone: +61 3 5320 5858 Fax: +61 3 5320 5791Email: [email protected]: www.artgalleryballarat.com.au

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ACCOMMOdATION • BAllARAT GOldFIeldS

BAllARATmercure ballarat

Description: Located in historic Ballarat, opposite Sovereign Hill, Mercure Ballarat is an ideal weekend or holiday getaway in a picturesque garden setting with 71 rooms, day spa, two restaurants, bar, wood fire lounge areas and central to all the attractions that Victoria’s Goldfield’s area has to offer.

Location: 75 minutes from Melbourne and Melbourne Airport.

Distance from attractions: Walking distance to Sovereign Hill & Gold Museum, 5 minutes Eureka Centre, 10 minutes historic CBD.

Access to public transport: V/Line rail and airport shuttle.

Dining facilities: Victoria Restaurant, Conservatory Restaurant.

Recreation facilities: Day spa, gym, outdoor pool, billiards & games room, bikes, jogging tracks, squash & tennis.

Contact: Sue Ann Permezel, Director of Sales and MarketingBusiness: Mercure BallaratAddress: 613 Main Road, Ballarat VIC 3150Phone: +61 3 5327 1200 Fax: +61 3 5333 3042Email: [email protected]: www.accorhotels.com.au AAATourism: HHHH


BAllARATsovereign hill lodge

Description: Sovereign Hill Lodge is located on the site of Australia’s foremost outdoor museum - Sovereign Hill. Experience the thrill of waking up in the 1850s. Relive the excitement of Australia’s golden past all day and night. Be the first to hit the Diggings and find gold. Rates include continental breakfast.

Location: 1 hr 30 mins drive from Melbourne via Western Fwy. Distance from attractions: Walking distance.

Access to public transport: Local coach service, train from Melb.

Recreational facilities: Located at Sovereign Hill. By day, experience the gold fever that gripped Australia in the 1850s. By night, see ‘Blood on the Southern Cross’, a spectacular sound and light show.

Contact: Neil Robbins, ManagerBusiness: Sovereign Hill LodgeAddress: Magpie St, Ballarat VIC 3350Phone: +61 3 5337 1159 Fax: +61 3 5333 5861Email: [email protected]: www.sovereignhill.com.au AAATourism: HHHI

TYPE: Lodge/Motel/Units ROOMS: 37 BEDS: 186 EST: 1984

BAllARATcraig’s royal hotel

Description: This magnificent heritage hotel must not be missed as a great dining and accommodation experience. After 6 years of meticulous and extensive restoration, Craig’s truly is “the pride of Ballaarat” (Mark Twain). Location: 1 hour 30 minutes from Melbourne via Western Fwy.

Distance from attractions: CBD location, in heritage-listed Lydiard Street, close to theatres, galleries and shopping.

Access to public transport: Railway station and bus terminal.

Dining facilities: Gallery Bistro, Craig’s Café & Larder.Recreational facilities: Lounges with open fires, Tabaret, conference facilities, function rooms, private dining rooms.

Contact: TinaBusiness: Craig’s Royal HotelAddress: 10 Lydiard St South, Ballarat VIC 3350Phone: +61 3 5331 1377 Fax: +61 3 5331 7103Email: [email protected]: www.craigsroyal.com.au


dAYlesfORdlake house

- Small Luxury Hotel - Restaurant - Day SpaDescription: Named Australia’s Best Boutique Hotel in the Luxury Travel Gold List, Lake House is regarded as one of Australia’s most in demand getaways. Enjoy a drink on the outdoor terraces as the sun sets over the lake, indulge in luxurious Waterfront or Lodge accommodation, delight your taste buds in the multi-award-winning restaurant, pamper yourself with blissful spa therapy in the Salus Day Spa.Location: 1 hr 20 mins from Melbourne, 1 hr from Melb Airport.Distance from attractions: 2 mins driving. Access to public transport: Train/bus transfer.Dining facilities: 2 Chef Hat Restaurant.

Contact: Lake HouseBusiness: Lake House Address: King St, Daylesford VIC 3460Phone: +61 3 5348 3329 Fax: +61 3 5348 3995Email: [email protected]: www.lakehouse.com.auAAATourism: HHHHI / HHHHH

TYPE: Hotel/Resort ROOMS: 33 BEDS: 90 EST: 1983


Werribee & SurroundsGet really wild!

> Hippopotamus, Werribee Open Range Zoo

20 min

1hour

11/2 hours

40 min45min

20 min

30 min

30 min

11/2 hours

11/2 hours

20 min

11/2 hours

2 hours

45 min

Hamilton

Portland

Geelong

Ballarat

Melbourne

BASS STRAIT


GroveOcean


Halls Gap

Penshurst

Heywood

PortFairy

Mortlake

Lismore

Timboon

Port Campbell

Camperdown

Ararat

Colac

Werribee

Anglesea

Cape Otway

Lorne

Apollo Bay

Torquay

Stawell

Dunkeld

Warrnambool


Daylesford

Ballan

Smeaton

Creswick

GREAT OCEAN ROAD

BALLARATGOLDFIELDS

GRAMPIANS


ATTRACTIONS • WeRRIBee

Just half an hour from Melbourne,

Werribee has a wide range of

attractions.

The Werribee Open Range Zoo offers the

chance to visit Africa without having to

leave Australia – see giraffes, rhinos, hippos

and big cats up close and personal.

You can even stay the night under canvas.

Another stunning feature is the Werribee

Park Mansion. The mansion was completed

by wealthy pastoralists, the Chirnside

family, in 1877. Built in the Italianate

architecture style, Werribee Mansion boasts

60 rooms in several wings. Following

extensive restoration, many of the Chirnside

family’s items, including clothing and

furniture remain on display.

Werribee Park has a number of exquisitely

laid out gardens. These include the State

Rose Garden with its thousands of roses.

The Werribee River is great for canoeing

and at the mouth of the river there is a

beach, boat ramp and jetty.

The RAAF Aviation Museum is at Point

Cook, 11 kilometres east of Werribee. The

Point Cook Coastal Park nearby is home to a

rich array of birdlife.

> Werribee & Surrounds1. Open plains: The Werribee Open Range

Zoo brings Africa to Australia. Get up close

with big cats, hippos, rhinos and giraffes.

2. Aviation history: See vintage aeroplanes

at the RAAF Museum at Point Cook. Every

Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday at 1pm there

are vintage plane flights.

3. Olden days: Discover the Victorian era in

Australia with a visit to Werribee Mansion.

The mansion is a living, breathing postcard

of the 19th century and a must see

attraction for visitors.

4. Blooming lovely: Explore the State Rose

Garden, winner of the prestigious World

Federation of Rose Societies Award for

Garden Excellence.

5. Booo!: Go ghost hunting at the

wonderful old Point Cook Homestead which

is part of the Point Cook Coastal Park.

Take a guided tour.


weRRiBeeWerribee open range zoo

Description: Get on board for your guided safari tour across the unique savannah landscape and discover rhinos, giraffes, zebras and more. Come face to face with a pride of lions on the African Walking Trail, visit with a family of hippos at home in the award-winning Kubu River Hippo exhibit or experience some of Australia’s very own wildlife along the Volcanic Plains Walk.

Type of operation: Zoo.

Location: 30 minutes west of Melbourne. K Road, Werribee.

Opening times: 9am-5pm daily. Safari bus tours depart from 10.30am, last tour 3.40pm. Entrance fee inclusions: 40 minute guided safari, walking trails, Lions on the Edge, Kuba River Hippos, and more.

Contact: Sales Zoos VictoriaBusiness: Werribee Open Range ZooAddress: K Road, Werribee VIC 3030Phone: 1300 ZOOSVIC or +61 3 9285 9406Fax: +61 3 9285 9267Email: [email protected]: www.zoo.org.au

weRRiBeeWerribee park

Description: Visit Werribee Park and discover the story of an Australian pastoral empire. 10 hectares of parkland and stunning formal gardens compliment the 19th Century Werribee Mansion. Experience the parterre, ornamental lake, rare grotto, contemporary sculpture works, heritage-listed trees and adjoining Victoria State Rose Garden. Entry to Werribee Park is free. Some products attract fees.

Type of operation: Heritage and cultural attraction and gardens.

Location: 30 minutes west of Melbourne (via Princes Fwy).

Opening times: From 10am daily (except Christmas Day).

Access to public transport: Public transport available. Private bus service (03) 9748 5094.

Business: Werribee ParkAddress: K Road, Werribee VIC 3030Phone: +61 3 8734 5100Fax: +61 3 9741 6879Email: [email protected]: www.werribeepark.com.au

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The best of Australia’s natural attractions,coastal scenery, history and heritage

> Giant Tree Ferns, Triplet Falls Rainforest Walk

Touring

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“I came across a child of god

he was walking along the great

ocean walk.”

Joni Mitchell - Woodstock

A guaranteed way to get the best out of

your trip around the Great Southern Touring

Route is to get expert information from

a local.

A number of guided tours, all with highly

experienced guides, operate throughout

the region.

BSK Adventures is an adventure tour

operator located in the Grampians. They

specialise in organising low-impact, small-

group, adventurous tours in the Grampians

and along the Great Ocean Walk.

They can take visitors cycling, kayaking,

hiking, trail running and surfing. Groups also

get to visit local communities, wineries, and

cultural centres and can even camp out in

the bush.

Visitors can find treasure along the Great

Ocean Road in all sorts of shapes and sizes,

and especially if they take a guided tour

with Natural Treasures Tours.

Their tours are conducted in small groups

of between 2 to 12 and the emphasis is

on relaxing and taking in the great natural

beauty of the area. The experience includes

opening up their treasure chests, for

example, they have a collection of artefacts

from the Loch Ard which sank in 1878.

Otway Discovery Tours also offer visitors

guided tours of the length and breadth of

the Great Ocean Road. There is the chance

to watch the surfers at the famous Bells

Beach, see kangaroos and koalas in the

wild, enjoy a picnic in the Otways bush and

also see the spectacular Twelve Apostles,

all while travelling in modern buses

equipped with DVD screens.

Port Campbell Touring Company is based

in Port Campbell, the closest town to the

Twelve Apostles. They know the Shipwreck

Coast intimately, but they also specialise in

guided tours of the Grampians. They have

vehicles that can accommodate both small

and large groups.

Soulfree Adventures take their name from

the Joni Mitchell song, Woodstock.

“I want to camp out on the land and set my soul free.”

Soulfree Adventures specialises in providing

high quality tours for the walking traveller.

As walking experts, they know all the best

destinations in the Great Southern Touring

Route regions.

bothfeet combines tranquil luxury with

world-class hiking. Only 10 guests at a

time enjoy their eco-chic sustainable lodge

located at Johanna adjacent to the Great

Ocean Walk. Packages include daily guided

tours of the Great Ocean Walk.

One fantastic way to link up with all these

tours while enjoying the experience of

some of the regions fantastic campsites

is in a Maui Motorhome. Maui’s Australian

Models range from two person to family

sized six person motorhomes - plus a

deluxe 4WD! All Maui 2WD motorhomes

feature automatic transmission.

RegiOn widemaui rentals

Description: Maui is an experienced motorhome operator. Our fleet ranges from 2, 4, 6 person to deluxe 4WD. Contemporary design, spacious beds, apartment styled kitchen equipment.All automatic transmission (2WDs) allow you to experience the Great Southern Touring Route in superior comfort and style.Type of operation: Motorhome and Car Rental. Duration of rental: 5 days for the Spirit 2 Grande, Spirit 4WD, Spirit 2TS Ultima and Platinum 6, and 7 days for the Spirit 4 and Spirit 6. Minimum 7 days for all one-way rentals and all hires between 15.12.10 - 05.01.11.Equipment provided: Living and sleeping equipment. Most vehicles feature fridge, gas stove, microwave, toilet and shower.

Contact: Maui ReservationsAddress: Central West Business Park, Building 1, 9 Ashley St, Braybrook VIC 3019Phone: 1300 363 800 or +61 3 8379 8891Fax: +61 3 9687 4844Email: [email protected]: www.maui.com.au

COLLECTION: Adelaide, Alice Springs, Bris, Cairns, Darwin, Hobart, Mel, Perth, Syd PAX: 6

RegiOn widebsk adventures

Description: Get up close to stunning scenery and amazing wildlife as you hop on a bike, in a kayak or along a hiking trail on one of our active adventures. Our local knowledge allows us to showcase the best the Grampians National Park and Great Ocean Road areas between Melbourne and Adelaide have to offer.

Type of operation: Small group adventures focused on natural history, wildlife & enjoying an ‘active’ rest amongst bush and nature.

Frequency of tours: We operate tours from one day to two weeks, all year around with daily, weekly, monthly and seasonal versions of our cycling, hiking, walking, active and kayaking trips.

General itineraries: Four Day (from Melb to Adel), Four Day (ex Melb), One to Four Day (ex Halls Gap/Apollo Bay).

Contact: Aaron Davis, ManagerBusiness: BSK Adventures/Bashukway TravelAddress: 42 Mt Zero Rd, Halls Gap VIC 3381Phone: +61 3 9014 9653 or +61 428 583 522Email: [email protected]: www.bskadventures.com

COLLECTION: Melb, Adel, Halls Gap, GOR PAX: 14 CHARTER: Y

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TOuRING • GReAT SOuTheRN TOuRING ROuTe

RegiOn widenatural treasures tours

Description: 2 and 3 Day small group (2 - 12 pax) tours of the Great Ocean Road and beyond. Stay in the most stunning and unique accommodation possible and enjoy great food and wine. Discover the regions in style with expert guides, modern vehicles and unique interpretation.

Type of operation: Personalised, small group eco-tours of the Great Ocean Road and Victoria. We focus on the natural environment, wildlife and history. Groups by arrangement.

General itineraries: 2 Day GOR tour: Melb – GOR – Melb 3 Day tours: Melb – GOR – Coonawarra – Adelaide | Adelaide – Coonawarra – GOR – Melb | Melb – GOR – Grampians – Melb 4 Day tour: Melb – GOR – Grampians – Ballarat – Melb

Contact: Jeremy Redmond and Pierre Jacobsson, DirectorsBusiness: Natural Treasures ToursAddress: PO Box 1671, Collingwood VIC 3066Phone: +61 409 650 886 or +61 418 270 438Email: [email protected]: www.naturaltreasures.com.au

COLLECTION: Melb Hotels, Geelong, Lorne PAX: 12 CHARTER: Y

RegiOn wideotWay discovery tours

Description: Experience and enjoy the breathtaking Victorian coastline, where every twist and turn will expose you to broad, uninterrupted beaches, dramatic cliff faces, and the lush rainforest of the Otway Ranges.

Type of operation: Small group tours of the Great Ocean Road, Twelve Apostles and Grampians National Park.

Duration of tours: 1 & 3 day tours or ‘jump on jump off option’ - stay overnight or extended stays along the Great Ocean Road!

General itineraries: 1 Day tour: Melb – Port Campbell – Melb. 3 Day tour: Melb – Port Campbell – Halls Gap – Grampians National Park – Ballarat – Melb.

Contact: Danae Gardner, Sales and MarketingBusiness: Otway Discovery ToursAddress: 570 Flinders St, Melbourne VIC 3000Phone: +61 3 9629 5844 Fax: +61 3 9629 5477Email: [email protected]: www.otwaydiscovery.com.au

COLLECTION: Melb, Geelong & GOR Region PAX: 24 CHARTER: Y

12 APOsTles/gReAT OceAn ROAdport campbell touring company

Description: Explore the magnificent Twelve Apostles and Great Ocean Road on a personalised tour with John, our expert guide who has 25 years experience as a national parks ranger.

Type of operation: Tours of the Twelve Apostles & Shipwreck Coast, Grampians NP, Great Ocean Walk tours and surf fishing.

Duration of tours: Half, 1, 3 and 4 Day tours.

Frequency of tours: Daily/Weekly/Monthly.

General itineraries: Half/1 Day (from Port Campbell): Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard, Warrnambool, Tower Hill.

3 Day (from Melb): Great Ocean Road, Great Ocean Walk. 4 Day (from Melb): Great Ocean Road, Grampians NP, Ballarat.

Contact: John McInerney, DirectorBusiness: Port Campbell Touring Company Address: 129 Currells Road, Port Campbell VIC 3269Phone: +61 447 986 423 Fax: +61 3 5598 6150Email: [email protected] Web: www.portcampbelltouring.com.au

COLLECTION: Melb, GOR & Ballarat Regions PAX: 13 CHARTER: Y

gReAT OceAn ROAdsoulfree adventures

Description: Guided walking tours of Australia’s iconic Great Ocean Walk. Soulfree’s walking tours offer the best way to experience all the wonderful scenery that the Great Ocean Road misses. To see the best of this coastline you have to walk it, and with Soulfree, you walk in style.

Type of operation: Guided walking tours. Fully accommodated in 3-4 star accommodation. Fully vehicle supported, our bus and driver follow the walk providing you with flexibility to walk as little or as much as you like. Fully catered, our chef prepares excellent meals with delicious packed walking lunches and snacks for the trail.

Duration of tours: Monthly, from September to May.

General itineraries: Available via our website.

Contact: Andrew Reynolds, DirectorBusiness: Soulfree AdventuresAddress: PO Box 417, Buninyong VIC 3357Phone: +61 3 5341 2475 Fax: +61 3 5341 2548Email: [email protected]: www.soulfreeadventures.com.au

COLLECTION: Melb Arts Centre or City Hotel PAX: 14 CHARTER: N

Choice Hotels Australasia™ represents more than 230 Econo Lodge®, Comfort™, Quality™ and Clarion® hotels, inns, suites and resorts throughout Australia, with 26 along the Great Southern Touring route.

Choice provides you with an extensive range of 3-4½ STAR accommodations in locations including:

Wherever your clients are travelling along the Great Southern Touring Route, they’ll never be too far away from an Econo Lodge, Comfort, Quality or Clarion hotel. Choice HotelPass is the way to go for ‘self-drive’ itineraries, while our new FIT rates are perfect for those clients who know exactly where and when they’d like to stay.

Reservations 13 2400 265 Mickleham Road VIC 3043 Phone: +61 (03) 9338 3222 Fax: +61 (03) 9338 [email protected]

Features:Only a few minutes’ drive in our free courtesy shuttle bus from Melbourne Airport. 20 minutes from Melbourne CBD, 24 hour reception, 68 large comfortable rooms, Restaurant & Lounge bar. Many shops, take away food out lets and shops within walking distance. Easy access to all major roads leading out of Melbourne.

Quality Hotel Melbourne AirportMelbourne - TullaMarine

Attractions:RestaurantsDFO ShoppingAirport West SCBroadmeadows SC

••••

Reservations 13 2400 2 Ferris Road VIC 3338 Phone: +61 (03) 8746 0600 Fax: +61 (03) 9746 [email protected]

Features:Home of Harness Racing Victoria’s new $48 million entertainment and racing complex, situated 40km west of Melbourne CBD. All rooms are modern, spacious and fitted with quality furnishings. Some rooms feature views overlooking the racetrack. Shuttle bus available to and from airports. Gaming Lounge, Bistro Dining, Sports Bar, TAB facilities.

Quality Hotel Tabcorp ParkMelTon SouTh

Attractions:Harness Race TrackWineriesEynesburyWerribee Zoo

••••

Reservations 13 2400 3 Bay Street VIC 3232 Phone: +61 (03) 5289 1199 Fax: +61 (03) 5289 [email protected]

Features:“Luxury at an affordable price”. Studio apartments only 50m to shops and beach. Free off-street parking. Kitchenette with microwave and hot plates. Spas in all rooms. Standard, deluxe, executive with ocean views. FOXTEL, DVD, reverse-cycle airconditioning, wireless broadband with tour groups and coaches welcome.

Comfort Inn Lorne Bay Viewlorne

Attractions:Erskine FallsOtway RangesGreat Ocean RoadSurfing

••••

Comfort Inn Port FairyReservations 13 2400 22 Sackville Street VIC 3284 Phone: +61 (03) 5568 1082 Fax: +61 (03) 5568 [email protected]

Features:Comprises National Trust property Seacombe House established 1847. The historic cottages were established in 1853 and offer log fires and spas. The modern section of this property offers 18 smart spacious units. Award-winning ’Stag’ Restaurant. Off-street parking.

PorT Fairy Attractions:Safe swimming beachesGreat Ocean RdColonial architectureGolf Links & wildlife

••••

NORTHERN

TERRITORY

WESTERN

AUSTRALIA

SOUTH

AUSTRALIA

NEW SOUTH WALES

TASMANIA

VICTORIA

QUEENSLANDA U S T R A L I A

ACT

200 400 kmN

0

Choice HotelsLocations

Bass Strait

Great Australian Bight

Bonapar teArchipelago

Torres Strait

Gulfof

Carpentaria

PACIFICOCEAN

INDIANOCEAN

INDIANOCEAN

SOUTHERN OCEAN

CORALSEA

ARAFURA SEA

TIMOR SEA

Lorne

Foster

Lakes Entrance

DandenongGeelong

Apollo Bay

Warrnambool

Port FairyPortland

MountGambier

Naracoorte

BairnsdaleSale

TraralgonMorwell

Phillip Island

MoeCranbourne

Ballarat

Stawell

Horsham

Nhill

Hamilton

SYDNEY

CANBERRA

MELBOURNE

Batemans Bay

EdenMerimbula

Wollongong

Gosford

NewcastleCharlestown

Belmont

Taree

Port Macquarie

CoffsHarbour

Grafton

Ballina

Warwick

Armidale

Tamworth

Singleton

Cessnock

Goulburn

JindabyneBendigo

Seymour

Benalla

Wangaratta

AlburyWodongaShepparton

EchucaMoama

Swan Hill

Mildura

WaggaWagga

Griffith

Broken Hill

Parkes

Forbes

Dubbo

Gunnedah

Narrabri

Goondiwindi

Orange

Blackheath

Gold CoastCoolangatta/Tweed Heads

MuswellbrookMudgee

Bathurst

Cobram BaroogaCorowa

Choice hotel location

Great Southern Touring Route

For general enquiries or Travel Agent bookings, simply contact your local Choice Hotels office or visit the ‘Travel Agent’ section on choicehotels.com.au. For Choice HotelPass, FIT or group bookings, please contact your local Wholesaler.

• Melbourne & surrounds• Geelong• Melton South

• Ballarat• Stawell• Port Fairy

• Warrnambool• Apollo Bay• Lorne

To view our hotels, visit choicehotels.com.au

ChoiCe hotels has the Great southern touring Route covered.

Restaurants Fresh local produce and sensational locations await

Recipe supplied by Chris’s Restaurant & Villas

- 6 medium size baby squid

- 1 bunch of baby spinach

- 100g butter

- Crushed garlic

- One egg (beaten)

- Splash of white wine

- Half cup chopped thyme,

dill and parsley

- 6 spring onions

- 100g pine nuts

- 100g sultanas

- 100g fetta

IngredientsSquid & Stuffing

Tomato Salad

- 2 black Russian tomatoes

- 1 ripe roma tomato

- 4 cherry tomatoes

- 5 sprigs of dill

- 5 sprigs of Italian parsley

- 5 basil leaves

- Extra virgin olive oil

- Red wine vinegar

- Salt and pepper

Method- Melt butter in pan and sweat off spring onion and garlic.

- Add roasted pine nuts, sultanas & white wine; reduce liquid until it’s almost dry.

- Add spinach and sauté until the spinach is soft. Place mix into a strainer to strain excess liquid

and cool slightly.

- Place mixture into a bowl and add crumbed fetta, beaten egg and chopped herbs.

- Clean squid and stuff with mixture. Close end with a tooth pick and set aside.

- Slice tomatoes, place in a bowl and add your herbs and seasoning. Toss together with a splash of

vinegar and a good splash of olive oil.

- Lightly oil the squid and place on BBQ. Cook for approximately a minute and a half on each side.

- Arrange tomato in the middle of a plate, place on top and drizzle with a little extra virgin olive oil.

Baby squid stuffed with pine nuts, sultanas

and spinach on a tomato and basil salad (serves 2)


wAllingTOn oakdene vineyards & restaurantDescription: Oakdene’s boutique vineyard and award-winning restaurant is situated in the Bellarine Peninsula, approx. 90km from Melbourne. Cellar door wine tasting & sales, restaurant and accommodation. Restaurant open for lunch Wed-Sun and dinner Wed-Sat from 6.30pm. Cellar door daily from 10am-4pm. Group bookings welcome by appointment.

Contact: Bernard Hooley Address: 255 Grubb Rd, WallingtonPhone: +61 3 5255 1255 Fax: +61 3 5256 3881Email: [email protected] Web: www.oakdene.com.au

HOURS: Lunch Wednesday-Sunday from 12pm. Dinner Wednesday-Saturday 6.30pm. SEATS: 80 LICENSED: YES

ReSTAuRANTS • GReAT SOuTheRN TOuRING ROuTe

APOllO BAY chris’s restaurant & villasDescription: Combining the flavours of Southern Europe and the East. Fresh seafood is our specialty, along with a variety of Chris’s most popular Greek dishes. With our cuisine, the emphasis is on simplicity and on showcasing the natural flavour of the ingredients. If we can’t get it fresh, it isn’t on our menu. See our ad on page 11 for information on our Villas.

Contact: Philip Talihmanidis Address: 280 Skenes Creek Rd, Apollo BayPhone: +61 3 5237 6411 Fax: +61 3 5237 6930Email: [email protected] Web: www.chriss.com.au

HOURS: Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner SEATS: 100 LICENSED: YES

dunkeld royal mail hotelDescription: “Australia’s Regional Restaurant of the Year” 2009 & 2010. “Country Wine List of the Year” 2009. Creative, contemporary cuisine based around produce from the hotel’s own organic gardens and fruit orchards. Fine dining restaurant, bistro and bar with spectacular mountain views. Bookings essential.

Contact: Julianne Bagnato Address: Parker St, DunkeldPhone: +61 3 5577 2241 Fax: +61 3 5577 2577Email: [email protected] Web: www.royalmail.com.au

HOURS: Open 7 days for breakfast, lunch and dinner SEATS: Restaurant - 40 Bistro - 40 Bar - 20 LICENSED: YES

dAYlesfORd lake house restaurantDescription: An icon in regional dining, Lake House is regarded as one of Australia’s best restaurants. The property has an enviable number of awards including: ‘Best of Award for Excellence’, Wine Spectator New York and ‘Australia’s Best Food and Wine Experience’, Australian Travel and Leisure Awards.

Contact: Lake House Reservations Address: King St, DaylesfordPhone: +61 3 5348 3329 Email: [email protected] Web: www.lakehouse.com.au

HOURS: Open 7 days for breakfast, lunch and dinner SEATS: 100 LICENSED: YES


APOllO BAY cape otWay lightstation caféDescription: Sit back, relax and take in the amazing lighthouse view while enjoying refreshments at our unique café. Home-made food, coffee, cake, soft-drinks, ice-cream and more. And don’t miss the fascinating historical display. Functions, parties and sunset dining with prior booking.

Contact: Paul Thompson, Manager Address: Lighthouse Rd, Cape OtwayPhone: +61 3 5237 9240 Fax: +61 3 5237 9245Email: [email protected] Web: www.lightstation.com

HOURS: From 9am-5pm daily SEATS: 50 LICENSED: NO

BAllARAT craig’s royal hotelDescription: Extensively restored and renovated over 6 years, Craig’s has many dining options. The Gallery Bistro for French style food in the glass roof atrium, or a coffee and light lunch in our Cafe & Larder. Craig’s should not be missed as a great dining and accommodation experience.

Contact: Tina Address: 10 Lydiard St South, BallaratPhone: +61 3 5331 1377 Fax: +61 3 5331 7103Email: [email protected] Web: www.craigsroyal.com.au

HOURS: Gallery Bistro: 7am-late SEATS: 140 LICENSED: YES

hAlls gAP “the balconies” restaurantDescription: Enjoy delightful dining and English breakfasts upstairs in “The Balconies” Restaurant in the elegance of two bay windows overlooking the garden and valley. Saturday nights feature Cool Jazz with professional musicians. Hostess Karen Calvert is a meticulous chef offering international cuisine and is able to cater for all dietary requirements.

Contact: Don Calvert Address: Main Rd, Town Centre, Halls GapPhone: +61 3 5356 4232 Email: [email protected] Web: www.mountaingrand.com

HOURS: Open 7 days a week from 6pm SEATS: 80 LICENSED: YES

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ItinerariesTouring suggestions

> Aerial, Port Campbell National Park


20 min

1hour

11/2 hours

40 min45min

20 min

30 min

30 min

11/2 hours

11/2 hours

20 min

11/2 hours

2 hours

45 min

Hamilton

Portland

Geelong

Ballarat

Melbourne

BASS STRAIT


GroveOcean


Halls Gap

Penshurst

Heywood

PortFairy

Mortlake

Lismore

Timboon

Port Campbell

Camperdown

Ararat

Colac

Werribee

Anglesea

Cape Otway

Lorne

Apollo Bay

Torquay

Stawell

Dunkeld

Warrnambool


Daylesford

Ballan

Smeaton

Creswick

GREAT OCEAN ROAD

BALLARATGOLDFIELDS

GRAMPIANS

Day 1Melbourne to Great Ocean Road

> Depart: Melbourne

> O/night: Apollo Bay

> Distance: 179 kilometres

> Route Summary: From Melbourne

take the Princes Freeway via Werribee to

Geelong, gateway to the Great Ocean Road.

Visit the Geelong Botanic Gardens before

heading to the Surf Coast towns of Torquay

and Lorne. Drive the magical stretch of road

from Lorne to Apollo Bay that clings to the

coastline. Dine overlooking the ocean at

Chris’s Restaurant.

> Highlights: Werribee Open Range

Zoo, Werribee Park, Geelong Waterfront,

Geelong Botanic Gardens, Narana

Creations, Surf World, Teddy’s Lookout

(Lorne), Marriners Falls (Apollo Bay),

Great Ocean Walk.

Day 2Great Ocean Road to Grampians

> Depart: Apollo Bay

> O/night: Halls Gap/Dunkeld

> Distance: Approx 351 kilometres

> Route Summary: From Apollo Bay,

follow the Great Ocean Road through the

lush Otways to the Twelve Apostles, take

a helicopter ride for a breathtaking view

of the dramatic coastline. Travel on to

Warrnambool, Port Fairy and then through

the Western District farmlands to Halls Gap

or Dunkeld.

> Highlights: Cape Otway Lightstation,

Otway Fly Tree Top Walk, Twelve Apostles,

Loch Ard Gorge, Flagstaff Hill Maritime

Village, Logans Beach, Tower Hill,

Moyne River, Mt Sturgeon and Mt Abrupt.

Day 3Grampians to Ballarat

> Depart: Halls Gap/Dunkeld

> O/night: Ballarat


> Route Summary: Drive through the

stunning scenery of the Grampians National

Park to Halls Gap, then head through

Australian bush country towards Stawell,

then Ararat before arriving in Ballarat, the

city of gold. After enjoying dinner in one

of our culturally diverse and cosmopolitan

restaurants, discover the Eureka story at

the Blood on the Southern Cross sound and

light show, where gold rush history meets

modern technology. Following the show

check into one of the city’s stunning historic

hotels for a well deserved rest.

> Highlights: Brambuk – National Park and

Cultural Centre, MacKenzie Falls, Gum San

Chinese Heritage Centre, Art Gallery of

Ballarat, The Eureka Centre, Sovereign Hill

and Blood on the Southern Cross sound

and light show.

Day 4Ballarat to Melbourne

> Depart: Ballarat

> O/night: Melbourne


> Route Summary: Before enjoying your

free podTour at the Art Gallery of Ballarat

take a walk along historic Lydiard Street to

admire the Victorian inspired architecture of

the gold rush. Then before heading

back to Melbourne, take some time out to

have your photo taken with a koala or feed

a kangaroo at the open range Ballarat

Wildlife & Reptile Park.

> Highlights: Art Gallery of Ballarat,

Sovereign Hill and Blood on the Southern

Cross, Ballarat Wildlife & Reptile Park.

> 4 days/3 nightsMelbourne – Great Ocean Road – Grampians – Ballarat

> Melbourne> Grampians National Park

> Sovereign Hill, Ballarat

20 min

1hour

11/2 hours

40 min45min

20 min

30 min

30 min

11/2 hours

11/2 hours

20 min

11/2 hours

2 hours

45 min

Hamilton

Portland

Geelong

Ballarat

Melbourne

BASS STRAIT


GroveOcean


Halls Gap

Penshurst

Heywood

PortFairy

Mortlake

Lismore

Timboon

Port Campbell

Camperdown

Ararat

Colac

Werribee

Anglesea

Cape Otway

Lorne

Apollo Bay

Torquay

Stawell

Dunkeld

Warrnambool


Daylesford

Ballan

Smeaton

Creswick

GREAT OCEAN ROAD

BALLARATGOLDFIELDS

GRAMPIANS



> Depart: Melbourne

> O/night: Apollo Bay


> Route summary: From Melbourne

follow the Princes Freeway through

Werribee to Geelong, gateway to the

Great Ocean Road. Visit Geelong’s Botanic

Gardens before heading to the Surf Coast

towns of Torquay and Lorne. Drive the

exquisitely scenic stretch of the road from

Lorne to Apollo Bay. Have dinner at Chris’s

Restaurant with its dramatic views of the

Southern Ocean.

> Highlights: Werribee Open Range Zoo,

Werribee Park, Geelong Waterfront, Botanic

Gardens, Narana Creations, Surf World and

Marriners Falls (Apollo Bay).

Day 2Great Ocean Road

> Depart: Apollo Bay

> O/night: Warrnambool/Port Fairy


> Route summary: From Apollo Bay,

follow the Great Ocean Road through the

Great Otway National Park to the Twelve

Apostles. A helicopter ride is a best way

to see not only all the Apostles at once

but the rest of this rugged coastline. Travel

on to Warrnambool, home of Flagstaff

Hill Maritime Village and the Shipwrecked

sound and laser show, or on to picturesque

Port Fairy via Tower Hill.

> Highlights: Great Ocean Walk, Cape

Otway Lightstation, Otway Fly Tree Top

Walk, Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge,

Port Campbell, Bay of Islands, Flagstaff Hill

Maritime Village, Logans Beach, Tower Hill,

Moyne River.


> Depart: Warrnambool/Port Fairy



> Route summary: Before leaving Dunkeld take the time to climb Mt Sturgeon orMt Abrupt before heading onto the majesty and magic of the Grampians National Park. Take in the Aboriginal history of the region at Brambuk – The National Park and Cultural Centre in Halls Gap. Stay the night in either Halls Gap or at Dunkeld.

> Highlights: Climb Mt Sturgeon orMt Abrupt, Hamilton Art Gallery, Brambuk – the National Park and Cultural Centre, MacKenzie Falls, Aboriginal rock art, bushwalking and wildlife.



> O/night: Ballarat


> Route summary: Visit Ararat, the only town in Australia founded by Chinese settlers. Drive through some of Australia’s fi nest wine-making country, detouring underground to see the vintages at Great Western. Learn the amazing history from Ballarat’s gold rush days and spend some time panning for gold at Sovereign Hill, before admiring the works of art at the Art

Gallery of Ballarat in historic Lydiard Street.

> Highlights: Gum San Chinese Heritage

Centre, Art Gallery of Ballarat, Sovereign Hill

and Blood on the Southern Cross, Ballarat

Wildlife & Reptile Park.

Day 5Ballarat to Melbourne

> Depart: Ballarat



> Route summary: Spend the morning

amid the grand colonial buildings of historic

Ballarat, pop in for a coffee and an PodTour

of the renowned collection housed in the

Art Gallery of Ballarat before heading out

to see the sights of Australia’s largest rural

city. Why not spend some time panning for

gold at Sovereign Hill before heading to the

famous Ballarat Wildlife & Reptile Park to

feed a kangaroo and cuddle a koala.

Purchase fresh fruit and veggies around

Bacchus Marsh on the way back to

Melbourne, the sporting and cultural capital

of Australia.

> Highlights: Art Gallery of Ballarat,

Sovereign Hill and Blood on the Southern

Cross, Ballarat Wildlife & Reptile Park.


> Werribee Open Range Zoo > Surf World, Torquay > Ballarat Wildlife & Reptile Park, Ballarat


20 min

1hour

11/2 hours

40 min45min

20 min

30 min

30 min

11/2 hours

11/2 hours

20 min

11/2 hours

2 hours

45 min

Hamilton

Portland

Geelong

Ballarat

Melbourne

BASS STRAIT


GroveOcean


Halls Gap

Penshurst

Heywood

PortFairy

Mortlake

Lismore

Timboon

Port Campbell

Camperdown

Ararat

Colac

Werribee

Anglesea

Cape Otway

Lorne

Apollo Bay

Torquay

Stawell

Dunkeld

Warrnambool


Daylesford

Ballan

Smeaton

Creswick

GREAT OCEAN ROAD

BALLARATGOLDFIELDS

GRAMPIANS


> Depart: Melbourne

> O/night: Torquay


> Route summary: Leave Melbourne,

heading west over the West Gate Bridge

and the Yarra River towards the open

plains of Werribee. Have coffee or lunch in

Geelong on Corio Bay before heading along

the Surf Coast Highway, or via the beautiful

Bellarine Peninsula, to Torquay, offi cial start

of the Great Ocean Road and Australia’s

surfi ng capital.

> Highlights: Werribee Open Range

Zoo, Werribee Park, Geelong Waterfront,

Geelong Botanic Gardens, Narana Creations

and Surf World.

Day 2Great Ocean Road

> Depart: Torquay

> O/night: Warrnambool/Port Fairy

> Distance: Approx 283 kilometres.

> Route summary: Drive the Great Ocean

Road past sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, the

mighty Twelve Apostles (best seen from a

helicopter), the Bay of Islands (try seeing

them at sunset) and on to Warrnambool or

the pretty fi shing village of Port Fairy.

> Highlights: Surf World, Cape Otway

Lightstation, Otway Fly Tree Top Walk,

Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, Flagstaff

Hill Maritime Village and Shipwrecked

sound and laser show, Tower Hill,

Moyne River.


> Depart: Warrnambool/Port Fairy


> Distance: Approx 158 kilometres.

> Route summary: Drive through the fertile

Western District farmland to Dunkeld,

southern gateway to the magic and mystery

of the Grampians National Park. Discover

the Aboriginal history of the region at

Brambuk – The National Park and Cultural

Centre in Halls Gap. Take a short bushwalk

to meet Australian native animals.

> Highlights: Brambuk – the National

Park and Cultural Centre, MacKenzie Falls,

bushwalking, wildlife, Aboriginal rock art.



> O/night: Ballarat


> Route summary: Visit Ararat, the only

town in Australia founded by Chinese

settlers. Drive through some of Australia’s

fi nest wine-making country, detouring

underground to see the vintages at Great

Western. Learn the amazing history from

Ballarat’s gold rush days and spend some

time panning for gold at Sovereign Hill,

before admiring the works of art at the Art

Gallery of Ballarat in historic Lydiard Street.

> Highlights: Gum San Chinese Heritage

Centre, Art Gallery of Ballarat, Sovereign Hill

and Blood on the Southern Cross.

Day 5Ballarat to Spa Country

> Depart: Ballarat

> O/night: Daylesford/

Hepburn Springs


> Route summary: After enjoying a

cuddle or two and a bite to eat with the

local koalas and kangaroos at the Ballarat

Wildlife & Reptile Park head off to indulge

in Australia’s famous spa country. Drink the

mineral waters bubbling up from the earth,

enjoy a massage and other lavish beauty

treatments then stay in luxury replete with

fi ne wining and dining.

> Highlights: Art Gallery of Ballarat, Ballarat

Wildlife & Reptile Park, Sovereign Hill and

Blood on the Southern Cross, Hepburn

Bathhouse & Spa.

Day 6Spa Country to Melbourne

> Depart: Daylesford/Hepburn Springs



> Route summary: Spend time taking

in the pleasures of both Daylesford and

Hepburn Springs before making the journey

back to Melbourne.

> Highlights: Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa,

minerals springs, restaurants, fresh regional

produce.


> Apollo Bay> Gum San Chinese Heritage Centre, Ararat

> Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa

GSTR International Trade Manual 2010/11

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Transcript of GSTR International Trade Manual 2010/11