Travellers Guide - Australia 2009-2010

Inside you’ll find lots of important informationabout your tour & all the places you’ll visit

TravellersGuide

GO

Australia2009/10

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Personal detailsAbout me:Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Home Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Home Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

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Allergies: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Driver’s Licence (Home): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Driver’s Licence (Int'l): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Credit Card Numbers: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Emergency contact:Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Relationship: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Passport details:Number: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Expiry Date: . . . . . . . . .

Date passport issued: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Where passport issued: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Holiday insurance:Company Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Policy Number: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Lake Mackenzie, Fraser Island

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Welcome to ContikiThanks for choosing to holiday with Contiki!We can’t wait to meet you and guide you through one of the

most beautiful places on earth (no we are not biased!).

Before you get here, please take some time to read through

this travellers guide - it is crammed full of useful information

on Australia and your tour.

Contiki has been running tours for over 40 years and picked

up some pretty useful tips...what to pack, where to meet your

tour and handy phone numbers are all here - the more we

can help you prepare for your tour the better.

On behalf of all the Contiki Team - have a

great trip!

Greg ReidGeneral ManagerTour OperationsAustralia

Kings Canyon

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ContentsBefore you go 5-8• Baggage allowance • What to pack • Passports and visas • Insurance and security • Health/vaccinations • Flying hints • Credit cards • Travellers cheques

Departure & return details 10-14AustraliaSydney information 15-21• Your hotel • How to get there • Useful information • Main tourist sights

Darwin information 22• Your hotel • How to get there • Useful information • Main tourist sights

Alice Springs information 25• Your hotel • How to get there • Useful information • Main tourist sights

Cairns information 27-28• Your hotel • How to get there• Useful information • Main tourist sights

Surfers paradise information 36• Your hotel • How to get there • Useful information • Main tourist sights

Whitsundays information 41• Your hotel • How to get there • Whitsunday sailing

Touring - the facts 43-44• Tour Managers • Tour Drivers• Accommodation & meals • Your share• Transport • Smoking • Music

General information 45-50• Health & hygiene • Budgeting • Optional excursions• Tipping • Photography • Calling home• Weekends & public holidays • Calendar• Clothing sizes • Traveller’s ten commandments

Australia 51-59• General facts • Places of interest

Trip notes 61Contiki worldwide 63

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Before you goBaggage allowanceDecide how many clothes you want to take - halve theamount and that’s how much you’ll need!

Baggage is restricted to ONE reasonably sized suitcase29" x 20” (73cm x 50cm) (non-expanding) and a maximumweight of 20kg (44lbs). Clients may bring one small bag, butno metal frame backpacks or vanity cases please as they aredifficult to pack and may damage other luggage.

Remember, if your tour includes a flight you are also subjectto airline baggage restrictions.

Whitsunday sailing adventure & Cape TribulationThere is very limited space available for luggage.Therefore, we would suggest that you take a small bag onthe yachts/specialist vehicles. Your regular luggage will bestored during this time.

What to packBelow is a suggested list of what you may need. It is worthremembering that June, July and August are the Australianwinter months, and you’ll need more warm clothes, especiallyin the Northern Territory (The Outback). Even in summer, it canbe cool in the evenings, particularly in the Southern States.

• Camera/extra memory stick • 1 small bath towel

• 1 Rain jacket • Toilet bag and contents

• 1 Warm jacket • Sunglasses

• 2 Pairs of jeans • Suntan lotion

• Shorts/skirts • Insect repellent

• 3 Casual shirts • Aspirin/medicines etc.

• 2 T-shirts • Hankies/tissues

• Jacket & trousers • Washing powder

• Dresses • Pegs(for evenings out) • Sewing Kit

• 1 Warm sweater • Writing material

• Tracksuit • Address book

• Socks • Nightwear

• Underwear • Swimwear and towel

• Sandals/Thongs • 1 Pair of good shoes

• 1 pair of comfortable shoes • Flashlight

(for outdoor activities)

Remember to bring your supplies of any pills and medicinesyou normally might need - like antibiotics or antihistamines.

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Before you goChecklistHave you got your:

• Travel Insurance • Passport• Visas (if applicable) • Travellers Cheques/money• Credit Cards • Camera and Film• Contiki Tour Vouchers • Hotel Vouchers

NB: Don’t pack your passport or money in your suitcase.

Passports, visas and electronic travel authorityVisa requirements vary. Please check with your travel agent tomake sure you have the necessary documents. Don’t forgetyour passport.

It is compulsory to carry a passport for presentation whenarriving or leaving Australia.

You can apply for an ETA instead of a visa over the internet.Check out this website for details:http://www.eta.immi.gov.au/index.html

Whitsundays

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Before you goInsurance and securityIt is essential that you are constantly security conscious.Your most important possessions such as your passport,money and camera should be carefully guarded AT ALLTIMES. Loss of such items could ruin your holiday, so onlybring your essential valuables along.It is COMPULSORY for all clients to be adequately coveredfor Cancellation and Curtailment Insurance prior to their tourdeparture, and we strongly advise insurance against loss of or damage to baggage, loss of personal money andtravellers cheques.

Health/vaccinationsIt is COMPULSORY for all clients to be adequately coveredfor medical insurance prior to their tour departure.Please purchase your Insurance from your travel agent priorto your tour departure.If you suffer from any form of illness, be sure to have anadequate supply of medicines which suit you beforedeparting on tour. You must advise us through your travelagent of any important medical conditions you may have,before departure.Vaccinations are not required unless a traveller has travelledthrough an infected area within 14 days preceding arrival in Australia.

Flying hintsEnsure you carry all your travel documentation in your handluggage, which also includes camera, film, toiletries,paperbacks etc. Make sure you take advantage of duty freeshopping, but check the current duty free limits that apply inthe country of your destination. You should also checkcurrent airline carry-on luggage restrictions. Please makesure that you leave photocopies of your importantdocuments (eg passports, visas, travellers cheques) withsomeone at home.The longer flights can be made a little more enjoyable bywearing loose clothing, good comfortable shoes as well aswalking the aisles regularly, eating sensibly and drinkingplenty of fluids (preferably not alcohol). Try to get some sleepand upon arrival, adjust immediately into local time by waitinguntil evening before sleeping - this should relieve the effectsof jet lag.Clients should be familiar with any health and travel informationpublished by airlines and/or government agencies.

Credit cardsMost credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club,Visa, AMEX and Mastercard are accepted in Australia. Mostoptional excursions can be paid by Visa and Mastercard.Your Tour Manager can advise you.

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Before you goCredit Cards cont’d:Always remember to guard your card, even on holiday:• Check the expiry date of your card when making

travel plans.

• Ensure you know your P.I.N. number. Memorise it. Do notwrite it down.

• Ensure that your card is kept in view at all times whenpaying for goods and services.

• Ensure that the total amount of your purchase is enteredon the sales voucher before you sign it.

• Retain all copies of sales vouchers until you have verifiedthem against your statements.

• Insist that all ‘spoiled’ sales vouchers are destroyed inyour presence.

• Only carry your card on your person or in yourhand luggage.

• Never leave your cards unattended in your hotel room,vehicle or any other place.

• Treat your cards as you would cash.

• Report immediately the loss or theft of your credit cards.

Following are Australia credit card contact details:Mastercard: 1800 120 113Visa: 1800 125 440American Express: 1300 132 639Diners: 1300 360 060

Travellers chequesTravellers cheques are the safest way to manage your funds.Try to arrange Australian currency if possible as these can becashed in small amounts almost anywhere. Foreign currenciesare best cashed at the bank, which imposes restrictions,especially at weekends. Equal denominations of A$20 andA$50 cheques are recommended.Make a separate note of all the numbers and denominations ofyour travellers cheques (which should be kept separately) incase of loss or theft.

ATMsAutomatic Teller machines are found everywhere throughoutAustralia providing easy access to cash. Prior to leaving homecheck your bank’s credit/debit card will work in Australian ATMs.

ekitSave on International Calls. Look out for your Contiki GlobalPhonecard in your travel documents. It even comes chargedwith enough credit to make a 5 minute call from practicallyanywhere in the world!

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Departure/return detailsAlice & Uluru - Ex Alice Springs (AEAD)Start: 9.00am from the All Seasons Oasis,

10 Gap Road, ALICE SPRINGS, N.T. 0870.Tel: (08) 8652 1444 Fax: (08) 8952 3776.

Finish: 8.00am at the Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge,YULARA (Australia & New Zealand bookings).

Finish: 10.00am at the All Seasons Oasis,ALICE SPRINGS (rest of world bookings).

Alice & Uluru Ex Alice Springs (AEDA)Start: 2.00pm from the All Seasons Oasis,

10 Gap Road, ALICE SPRINGS, N.T. 0870.Tel: (08) 8652 1444 Fax: (08) 8952 3776

Finish: 8.00am at the Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge,YULARA (Australia & New Zealand bookings).

Finish: 12.00 noon at the All Seasons Oasis,ALICE SPRINGS (rest of world bookings).

Alice & Kakadu - Ex Alice SpringsStart: 9.00am from the All Seasons Oasis,

10 Gap Road, ALICE SPRINGS, N.T. 0870.Tel: (08) 8652 1444 Fax: (08) 8952 3776

Finish: 6.00pm at the Quality Frontier Darwin, DARWIN.

Alice & Kakadu - Ex DarwinStart: 7.30am from the Quality Frontier Darwin,

3 Buffalo Court, DARWIN, NT 0800.Tel: (08) 8981 5333 Fax: (08) 8941 0909

Finish: 2.00pm at the All Seasons Oasis, ALICE SPRINGS.

Territory & Outback - Ex Alice SpringsStart: 9.00am from the All Seasons Oasis,,

10 Gap Road, ALICE SPRINGS, N.T. 0870.Tel: (08) 8652 1444 Fax: (08) 8952 3776.


Territory & Outback - Ex DarwinStart: 7.30am from the Quality Frontier Darwin,

3 Buffalo Court, DARWIN, NT 0800.Tel: (08) 8981 5333 Fax: (08) 8941 0909.

Finish: 12.00 noon at the All Seasons Oasis,ALICE SPRINGS.

Sydney ExplorerCheck-in from: 3.00pm at the Chifley Potts Point,

Corner Victoria Street and Darlinghurst Road,Potts Point, NSW 2011Tel: (02) 9358 2755 Fax: (02) 9357 1397

Check-out: 10.00am from the Chifley Potts Point, Sydney.

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Departure/return detailsSydney New YearStart: 5.00pm (check-in from 3.00pm) at the Chifley

Potts Point, Corner Victoria Street and Darlinghurst Road,Potts Point, NSW 2011Tel: (02) 9358 2755 Fax: (02) 9357 1397

Check-out: 10.00am from the Chifley Potts Point, SYDNEY.

Coast & Whitsundays - Ex SydneyStart: 7.00am from the Chifley Potts Point,


Finish: 8.00am at Daydream Island Resort,WHITSUNDAYS.

Coast & Whitsundays - Ex WhitsundaysStart: 5.00pm from Daydream Island Resort,

WHITSUNDAY PASSAGE, QLD.Tel: (07) 4948 8488 Fax: (07) 4948 8499

Finish: 6pm at the Chifley Potts Point, SYDNEY.

Cairns Sunshine Trail - Ex Surfers ParadiseStart: 5.00pm from Australis Sovereign Resort,

138 Ferny Avenue, SURFERS PARADISE, QLD 4217Tel: (07) 5579 3888 Fax: (07) 5579 3877

Finish: 12.00 noon at the Cairns Colonial Club Resort,CAIRNS.

Cairns Sunshine Trail - Ex CairnsStart: 12.00 noon from the Cairns Colonial Club Resort,

18-26 Cannon Street, CAIRNS, QLD 4870.Tel: (07) 4053 5111 Fax: (07) 4053 7072

Finish: 8.00am at Australis Sovereign Resort,SURFERS PARADISE.

Cairns Underwater Discoveries - Great Barrier ReefDiving Adventures: Learn to Dive, Dive to Adventure &Snorkel to Adventure - Ex CairnsTransfers to/from your accommodation to either the ProdiveTraining Centre or to the Dive Boat are included. Please contact Prodive (07) 4031 5255 at least the day priorto advise accommodation details and confirm pick up times.

Magical Tropics - Ex WhitsundaysStart: 5.00pm from Daydream Island Resort,



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Departure/return detailsMagical Tropics - Ex CairnsStart: 12.00 noon from the Cairns Colonial Club Resort, 18-

26 Cannon Street, CAIRNS, QLD 4870.Tel: (07) 4053 5111 Fax: (07) 4053 7072

Finish: 8.00am at Daydream Island Resort, WHITSUNDAYS.

Island & Rainforest - Ex WhitsundaysStart: 5.00pm from Daydream Island Resort,


Finish: 4.00pm at the Cairns Colonial Club Resort, CAIRNS.

Island & Rainforest - Ex CairnsStart: 7.30am from the Cairns Colonial Club Resort,


Finish: 8.00am at Daydream Island Resort, WHITSUNDAYS.

Beaches & Reefs - Ex SydneyStart: 7.00am from the Chifley Potts Point,



Beaches & Reefs - Ex CairnsStart: 12.00 noon from the Cairns Colonial Club Resort,


Finish: 6.00pm at the Chifley Potts Point, SYDNEY.

Reefs & Rainforests - Ex SydneyStart: 7.00am from the Chifley Potts Point,



Reefs & Rainforests - Ex CairnsStart: 7.30am from the Cairns Colonial Club Resort,



Rainforest Adventure - Ex Cairns (CYSC)Start: 8.00am from the Cairns Colonial Club Resort,



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Departure/return detailsRainforest Adventure - Ex Cairns (CYCS)Start: 7.30am from the Cairns Colonial Club Resort,


Finish: 5.00pm at the Cairns Colonial Club Resort,CAIRNS.

City to Surf - Ex SydneyStart: 7.00am from the Chifley Potts Point, Corner

Victoria Street and Darlinghurst Road, PottsPoint, NSW 2011Tel: (02) 9358 2755 Fax: (02) 9357 1397

Finish: 8.00am at the Australis Sovereign Resort,SURFERS PARADISE.

Contrast Reef & Rock - Ex SydneyStart: 7.00am from the Chifley Potts Point, Corner

Victoria Street and Darlinghurst Road, Potts Point,NSW 2011Tel: (02) 9358 2755 Fax: (02) 9357 1397

Finish: 12.00 noon at the All Seasons Oasis, ALICE SPRINGS.

Aussie Explorer - Ex SydneyStart: Start: 7.00am from the Chifley Potts Point,



Aussie Explorer - Ex DarwinStart: 7.30am from the Quality Frontier Darwin,

3 Buffalo Court, DARWIN, NT 0800Tel: (08) 8981 5333 Fax: (08) 8941 0909


Bridge to Reef - Ex SydneyStart: 5.00pm (check-in from 3.00pm) at the Chifley

Potts Point,Corner Victoria Street and Darlinghurst Road,Potts Point, NSW 2011Tel: (02) 9358 2755 Fax: (02) 9357 1397


Ocean to Outback - Ex SydneyStart: 5.00pm (check-in from 3.00pm) at the Chifley

Potts Point, Corner Victoria Street and Darlinghurst Road,Potts Point, NSW 2011Tel: (02) 9358 2755 Fax: (02) 9357 1397

Finish: 8.00am at the Outback Pioneer Hotel & Lodge,YULARA.

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Departure/return detailsWhitsunday sailing adventure If you are joining a tour in the Whitsundays and have bookedand paid for the Whitsundays Sailing Option, please check inat Pro Sail office, shop 1, 4 The Esplanade, Airlie Beach. Tel:1800 810 116 or (07) 4946 7533. The Sailing Option starts at4.00pm (please check-in from 3.00pm).Please note that once the yachts depart the mainland, there isno opportunity to purchase supplies. Therefore it is importantthat you are prepared and prior to departure have with you allyou need for the 2 nights sailing. What you take is up to you,but may we suggest items such as snacks and soft drinks,sufficient sun screen and any items of a personal nature.Please also note that alcohol is not sold on the yachts.

Pre-departure meetingsA pre-departure get together is generally organised for tourscommencing in Sydney, Cairns, Darwin and Alice Springs theevening prior to the tour departing. The venue and timings for this meeting will be posted on theContiki noticeboard of the hotel lobby prior to the meeting.This meeting is organised by the Contiki Tour Manager and isan opportunity to meet your fellow travellers.

If you miss the coachClients should contact Reception staff at the departure hotelas soon as possible. All possible assistance will be given tohelp clients catch up with their tour.On some tours, the actual departure day is spent sightseeingin the gateway city and its surrounds. Therefore if you do missthe coach, please check into the Hotel and you will be able tocatch up with your tour when they return in the afternoon.N.B: Any cost incurred will be at the client’s expense.

Whitsundays

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Sydney informationContiki’s accommodation in Sydney:The Chifley Potts Point, Corner Victoria Street and DarlinghurstRoad, POTTS POINT, NSW 2011Tel: (02) 9358 2755 Fax: (02) 9357 1397

How to get thereThe Chifley Potts Point is 16 km (10 miles) from SydneyInternational Airport. Shuttle buses meet all incoming flights and willdrop off at the hotel on request (from approx A$13). Also availableis the airport link rail service which travels to Sydney Central Stationthen change trains for Kings Cross Station - located directly underthe hotel (approx A$14.80). The taxi fare from the airport terminalsto the Chifley Potts Point is approx A$35.

Useful informationShopping: Normal shopping hours in Sydney are 9.00 am to 5.30 pm Monday to Friday and 9.00 am to 4.00 pm on weekends.There is late night shopping till 9.00 pm on Thursday nights andmost tourist shops and department stores are open on Sunday.The main shopping area in Sydney is bounded by George andElizabeth Streets and Martin Place and Park Street.Banks: Open 9.00 am to 4.00 pm Monday to Thursday and9.00 am to 5.00 pm Friday.

Useful telephone numbers:Emergency Police, Ambulance, Fire 000Flight arrivals and departures 13 1223Qantas 13 1313Virgin Blue 13 6789Jetstar 13 1528Air New Zealand 13 2476Singapore Airlines 13 1011British Airways 13 00 360 060Cathay Pacific 13 1747United Airlines 13 1777Thai 13 00 651 960Canadian Consulate (02) 9364 3000British Consulate (02) 9247 7521American Consulate (02) 9373 9200New Zealand Consulate (02) 9247 1344Sydney Entertainment Centre (02) 9320 4200Australia Directory Assistance 12456

Main tourist sightsIn one of the most beautiful cities in the world it’s hard to limitour suggestions of what to do. Probably the best thing we canrecommend is doubling the amount of time you were going tospend here! Here’s a taste of what’s on offer:

Bondi BeachYou can’t do Sydney without a visit to Bondi Beach. Whetheryou’re into swimming, surfing or having a cold beer by the water,Bondi Beach is the place to be. There’s a tonne of surfwearshops for those in need of retail therapy, and the people watchingis out of this world. If you’re in Sydney for the weekend, scheduleyour Bondi visit for a Sunday – the Bondi markets run on this day

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Sydney informationBondi Beach cont’d:and are great for picking up cheap jewellery and clothes. A cabfrom Potts Point to Bondi Beach will cost around A$25, or you cantake a train from Kings Cross Station to the Bondi Junctiontransport interchange and then a 381 or 389 bus to Bondi Beach.

Bondi - Coogee walkFeeling energetic? Then do the walk from Bondi to Coogee –it takes a couple of hours but is well worth it. Pretty much theentire walk is along the cliff face of the Pacific Ocean and you’llpass great Sydney beaches along the way including Tamarama,Bronte and Clovelly – each with its own distinct personality. And here’s a tip, if you can pick up a cheap snorkel and mask,do! Clovelly Beach is a marine reserve and the true beauty ofthe beach is underwater.

Kings CrossAhh.. what visit to Sydney would be complete without a peek atSydney’s seedy underbelly? Kings Cross is a colourful mix ofstreet workers, the eccentric and strip clubs. Ironically it is alsohome to some of Sydney’s ‘uber cool’ bars including HugosLounge & Soho.

PaddingtonThe area for serious shoppers. Paddington’s golden mile of OxfordStreet features some of Australia’s great designer stores includingWayne Cooper, Marcs and Morrisey. Arthurs Pizza is an institutionamongst the locals and if you are after a piece of Australian art,make sure you pop into Dinosaur Design where handcrafted resinhomeware and jewellery are on offer. It would be worth your whileto plan your visit to Paddington on a Saturday – that’s when thePaddington Markets take place. The Markets are about a 1.5kmwalk from Potts Point or a cab costs under A$10.

Paddys MarketNot to be confused with the Paddington Market, Paddys Marketruns Friday, Saturdays and Sundays near Darling Harbour. Ifyou’re after cheap sheepskins, Ugg boots, cellphone covers orbags, this market was made for you.

Watsons BayAnother thing we can’t talk up enough is Sydney’s Harbour.We’d recommend catching the Watson’s Bay ferry - the triptakes about 40 minutes from Circular Quay (area where theSydney Opera House is located) and ends up at Watsons Bay.Here you can visit Watsons Bay Hotel for a bbq meal and coldbeer by the water’s edge.

Circular Quay, The Rocks & Sydney Opera HouseOK, this is about as touristy as it gets, but well worth the visit ifyou’re new to Sydney. Circular Quay is located at the bottom ofthe CBD and can be reached by walking in a straight line towardsthe water down any of Sydney’s main CBD streets. When you getthere grab a gelato from Gelatissimo and head towards the OperaHouse. Take in this Aussie icon under your own steam, or join a60 minute tour for A$35.00. To the left of Circular Quay is thefamous Rocks area.

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Sydney informationCircular Quay, The Rocks & Sydney Opera House cont’d:Avoid the markets here unless you are looking for overpricedtrinkets. Instead explore the back streets, grab some lunch, thenwalk over the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The walk will take about30 minutes each way and best of all it’s free!

ChinatownHay St and Dixon St offer over 30 different restaurants servinghundreds of different oriental dishes.

Taronga Park ZooTaronga Park Zoo is situated on one of the most amazing sitesoverlooking Sydney Harbour. Not only is it home to a collection ofrare animals from around the world, it also has a huge selectionof Australian wildlife with almost 4000 animals. The largestselection of the zoo is devoted to Australian animals such askangaroos, platypus, echidnas and, of course koalas!You’ll need to catch a ferry from Circular Quay to the zoo, andyou can save a bit of cash if you purchase a Zoo Pass from theferry terminal covering your ferry ride and zoo entry.

Sydney ObservatoryThe Observatory comes into its own at night. View the 'SouthernSkies' through a high-powered telescope in the copper dome.Bookings essential. Tel: 9217 0485.

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Sydney informationSydney AquariumOne of the largest and most spectacular aquariums in the world is atDarling Harbour. Experience the sharks, rays and fish of all shapesfrom tunnels under the harbour, and if you have never experiencedthe Great Barrier Reef…. then this is your chance to see the magicof the reef and its brilliant colours of live coral and tropical fish! Otherspecial features are crocodiles, a touch pool and micro aquariums,platypus and penguins. Open 7 days from 9.30am to 10pm.

AAT KingsIf you have a half or full day spare, AAT Kings has some great daytrips to the Hunter Valley or Blue Mountains. Mention you’re aContiki customer and you’ll receive a 10% discount. Bookingscan be made by calling (02) 9700 0133.

The Australian MuseumThe Australian Museum houses examples of everything that is uniqueto Australia – the oldest continent on earth. Check out the bestcollection of South Pacific ethnography in the world - the traditionalculture of Australian Aborigines, the people of Papua New Guineaand Pacific Islands. Located on the corner of William and College Sts(see map on page 21). Open 7 days from 9.30am – 5.00pm.

Powerhouse MuseumThe Powerhouse is created from the shell of a former power stationand isn’t like your run of the mill museum. Over 25 exhibitions giveyou an insight into human achievement, science and technology,the decorative arts, and everyday lives of Australians. From a NASAspace station to a 1930s cinema, the Boulton and Watt rotativesteam engine, to Sandra Rhodes ball gown, all can be foundamongst the museum’s diverse displays. Located at 100 Harris St,Ultimo (see map on page 21). Open 7 days from 10am – 5.00pm.

Hyde Park BarracksDesigned and built in 1819 by convicts for convicts. Now it is amuseum, & a spooky one at that! Located in Queens Square,Macquarie Street the Barracks are open 7 days from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm. `

Museum of SydneyA multi-media experience on the site of the first GovernmentHouse. The museum tells the many stories of the colony's firstdays. Located on the corner of Philip & Bridge Streets, theMuseum is open 7 days from 10.00 am to 5.00 pm.

Queen Victoria BuildingTo call the QVB a shopping arcade is a major understatement.Over 200 boutiques and galleries including major chains andunique speciality shops. Just window shopping is a treat. Open 7days, 24 hours.

Sydney Harbour BridgeIf you really want to get to know the bridge, walk over it, either byway of the free public walk way on the eastern side of the bridgeor over the arch, with the help of BridgeClimb. BridgeClimb offersthose with a sense of adventure the chance to climb to the top.Operating 7 days and evenings a week, bookings are essential.Call (02) 8274 7777 for further information or for those finishing atour in Sydney ask your Tour Manager for assistance.

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Sydney information

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Darwin informationContiki’s accommodation in DarwinQuality Frontier Darwin, 3 Buffalo Court, DARWIN, NT 0800Tel: (08) 8981 5333 Fax: (08) 8941 0909

How to get thereThe Quality Frontier Darwin is 6 km (4 miles) from DarwinInternational Airport. Darwin Airport Shuttle Service meets allincoming flights and will drop off at the hotel on request (approxA$11). A taxi fare is approx A$25.

Useful informationShopping: Monday to Saturday 9.00 am to 5.00 pm, with late nighthours on Thursday at the Smith Street Mall and Friday atCasuarina. Most tourist shops are open on Sunday.Banks: Open between 9.30am and 4.00pm Monday to Thursdayand 9.30am to 5.00pm Friday.

Main tourist sightsThe top of the Northern Territory is warm and tropical year round,with the bustling cosmopolitan city of Darwin as its focal point.Darwin boasts a casino and offers a variety of unique attractions,most of which are visited on your coach sightseeing tour. Don’tforget to buy one or two of the famous Darwin Stubbies, thelargest bottles of beer in the world. They contain 2 litres of locallybrewed Northern Territory Draught Beer.Doctor’s Gully: Watch and participate in the feeding of fish atDoctor’s Gully on the high tides.Indo Pacific Marine: This exhibition allows you to view the livecoral, tropical fish and marine animals, without getting your feet wet!

Join us for a morning in the bush to experience traditional Aboriginal culture.Learn about the Dreamtime and spiritual beliefs, taste delicacies of the bush,such as witchetty grubs and kangaroo tail, throw a boomerang. Meet and talk toTraditional Aboriginal people at their campsite, where you will learn about andinterpret the famous dot paintings with the opportunity to purchase piecesstraight from the artists. A once in a lifetime, cultural experience.

DREAMTIME TOURS, PO BOX 2058ALICE SPRINGS NT 0871Telephone: (08) 8955 5095ABN: 73 092 426 385Fax: (08) 895 55111Email: [email protected] through your Tour Manager

365 Mornings per yearThe Aboriginal Dreamtime

& Bushtucker Tour

Experience the Legend! It’ll change your attitude!

Compliment your Contiki Tour at Uluru with a ride around the Rock on a legendary Harley Davidson Motorcycle.

Uluru Motorcycle Tours offers Contiki passengers a tour with a difference.

All gear is supplied for this ride of a lifetime!Ask your Tour Manager about our options available

to Contiki passengers.

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Alice SpringsinformationContiki’s accommodation in Alice Springs:All Seasons Oasis, 10 Gap Road, ALICE SPRINGS NT 0870Tel: (08) 8952 1444 Fax: (08) 8952 3776

How to get thereThe All Seasons Oasis is 12 km (7 miles) from Alice SpringsAirport. The Airport Shuttle Service meets all incoming flightsand will drop off at the hotel on request (approx A$15). A taxito the hotel costs approx A$25.

Useful informationShopping: Normal shopping hours are 9.00 am to 5.30 pmMonday to Friday and 9.00 am to 12 noon on Saturday.However, some shops are open until 9.00 pm on Friday andK-Mart and Coles are open Saturday and Sunday from 9.00 amto 5.30 pm.Banks: Monday to Thursday 9.30 am to 4.00 pm and Friday9.30 am to 5.00 pm.

Main tourist sightsLocated in what is almost the geographic centre of this vastcontinent is Alice Springs, the Northern Territory’s secondlargest town. Not surprisingly, the area around Alice Springs isknown simply as ‘The Centre’. Alice Springs boasts a casinoand offers a variety of unique attractions, most of which arevisited on your coach sightseeing tour.One-day Palm Valley 4 wheel-drive trip: Take the opportunityto experience a unique part of Central Australia, accessible onlyby 4-wheel drive. Travel through Hermannsburg, then down theFinke River, one of the oldest watercourses in the world. Seespectacular rock forms, white sands and an oasis of rock poolsand palm trees. Visit the nearby spectacular rock formationknown as the Amphitheatre and relax by a waterhole shaded bynumerous tall palms. The full day excursion includes morningtea, picnic lunch and afternoon tea. Book through your TourManager or call AAT Kings on 1300 556 100.Old Gaol: Situated between the courthouse and the policestation is Alice Springs’ first gaol, one of the original buildingsof the town. It was preserved at the request of the NationalTrust when the new courthouse was built.Diarama Village: This brilliant attraction traces the myths andlegends of the Australian Aborigines. An excellent selection ofart is also on display.Panorama Guth: Panorama ‘Guth’ - 360 degrees, 6 metreshigh and 60 metres in circumference, a painted landscape ofthe best known beauty spots of the centre. Painted by Dutchborn Alice Springs artist, Henck Guth.

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Cairns informationContiki’s accommodation in CairnsCairns Colonial Club Resort, 8-26 Cannon Street,CAIRNS,QLD 4870 Tel: (07) 4053 5111 Fax: (07) 4053 7072

How to get thereThe Cairns Colonial Club Resort is 6 km (4 miles) from CairnsInternational Airport. The Colonial Club free shuttle servicemeets most flights and is generally found adjacent to thebaggage claim area. A taxi to the hotel is approx A$15.

Useful informationShopping: Shops are open Monday to Friday 9.00 am to 5.30pm with late night shopping Thursday night till 9.00 pm,Saturday morning to 12 noon.Banks: Hours 9.00 am to 4.00 pm Monday to Thursday and9.00 am to 5.00 pm Friday.

Cuddle a koala at Currumbin

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Cairns Information

Main tourist sightsCairns in Northern Queensland is a relaxed tropical city ofover 120,000 people, close to the Great Barrier Reef, CapeYork and the beautiful tablelands of the north, Marlin fishingand scuba diving are big attractions in the area. The city andsurroundings offer a variety of unique attractions, most ofwhich are visited on your coach sightseeing tour.These include the optional Outer Barrier Reef cruise, and thechance to visit the village of Kuranda by Skyrail or the Scenic Train.

Atherton Tableland: West of Cairns, an area of great scenicbeauty, endowed with crystal, sparkling waterfalls, tropicalvegetation and mysterious crater lakes.Green Island: You can spend a pleasant relaxing day on thissmall coral cay, with its inviting white beaches and tropicalenvironment. Take a Great Adventures fast catamaran.Port Douglas: This once sleepy village is now theplayground of millionaires, tourists and locals, who come toenjoy its casual but spectacular sights. Laze on the beach,walk through the markets or drink coffee in one of thechic cafés.

Tandem Skydiving

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Bungy jumping, Cairns

Surfers ParadiseinformationContiki’s accomodation in Surfers ParadiseAustralis Sovereign, 138 Ferny AvenueSURFERS PARADISE, QLD, 4217.Tel: (07) 5579 3888 Fax: (07) 5579 3877

How to get there There are two airports servicing Surfers Paradise. Gold Coastairport is approx 22 km (14 miles) or 30 minutes drive south,and transfer shuttles cost approx A$18 one way. Brisbaneairport is approx 90 km (56 miles) or one and a half hours north,and transfer shuttles cost approx A$39 one way. There is alsoan airport train to the Gold Coast, costing A$26. Alight atNerang Station then it’s a 12 km taxi ride into Surfers Paradise.

Useful information Shopping: Monday to Saturday 9.00am to 5.00pm with latenight shopping on Thursday. Most tourist shops in SurfersParadise are open till late every night and all weekend. Banks: Open between 9.30am and 4.00pm Monday toThursday and 9.30am to 5.00pm Friday.

Main tourist sights Beaches: The name says it all, as some of the best and mostfamous surf beaches in the world are in close proximity toSurfers Paradise. Long stretches of golden sand make for theperfect mix of relaxation and action – you can do as much or aslittle as you like!Cavill Avenue: The main walking mall is the shopping hub andnightlife centre. Plenty of tourist shops and arcades for the day,and many places to dance the night away later on. Attractions: With many theme parks, adventure activitiesand guided tours, there is never a lack of options inSurfers Paradise.

Surfers Paradise

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WhitsundaysinformationContiki’s accommodation in the WhitsundaysDaydream Island Resort, WHITSUNDAYS PASSAGE, QLD4802. Tel: (07) 4948 8488 Fax: (07) 4948 8499Daydream Island is located about 1,200 km fromQueensland’s capital, Brisbane. The Whitsundays are a groupof 74 islands set in the beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.Daydream Island Resort is situated about 7km, or 15 minutesby water taxi, from Shute Harbour on the mainland or 30minutes by water taxi from Hamilton Island. Proserpine is theclosest large mainland centre.

How to get thereBy Air: Whitsundays and Fantasea Cruises meet flights for a30 minute catamaran cruise to Daydream Island, departingfrom the jetty located directly at the airport. The cost of thistransfer is not included in the tour price but may be ticketedin conjunction with flights (approx cost A$55). FromWhitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) at Proserpine, CruiseWhitsundays offer a streamlined transfer with a coachconnection directly from the airport to Abel Point Marina inAirlie Beach, where a connecting ferry transfers guests toDaydream Island, approx A$55. Alternatively, WhitsundayTransit Coaches meet all flights for a transfer to ShuteHarbour (approx A$15) where Fantasea Cruises provide aregular service to Daydream Island, approx A$29.By Road: If you have traveled by road to Shute Harbour orAbel Point Marina, Cruise Whitsundays and/ or FantaseaCruises provide daily transfers to Daydream Island Resort.For further information on transfers, timetables and costs, callCruise Whitsundays – (07) 4946 4662 or Fantasea – (07) 49465111. Transfer costs are from A$29.00.

Whitsunday sailing adventureIf you have booked and paid for the Whitsunday SailingOption, check in is at the Pro Sail office, shop 1, 4 TheEsplanade, Airlie Beach. From Great Barrier Reef Airport(HTI) on Hamilton Island, Cruise Whitsundays meet flights fora 30 minute catamaran cruise to Abel Point Marina, AirlieBeach, departing from the jetty located directly at the airport.The cost of this transfer is not included in the tour price butmay be ticketed in conjunction with flights (approx costA$55). From Whitsunday Coast Airport (PPP) at Proserpine,Whitsunday Transit Coaches meet all flights for a transfer toAirlie Beach (approx A$15). Clients should call Pro Sail on1800 810 116 or 07 4946 7533 if there are any problems. The Sailing Option departs at 4.00pm.

Please check in by 3.00pm.

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Touring - the factsTour ManagersBecause your Tour Managers have a responsibility to you,the client, they have been chosen for the qualities that enablethem to make your trip a richer experience.They are well briefed on customs, attitudes and environmentsof the areas to be visited and will add cultural footnotesalong the way. Being the Tour Manager, their decisions,discretion and delegation of duties should be observedbecause they are in your interest and that of all the team.At the same time, your individuality will be respected andsome free time is planned to enable you to explore on yourown and to follow personal interests.

Tour DriversYour Driver works in close co-operation with the TourManager. They are trained and tested and very familiar withAustralian roads. Your drivers other responsibilities includethe vehicle’s loading and unloading and its cleanliness.Your assistance is most appreciated.

Accommodation & mealsWhether you’re touring the coast or the outback, you’ll stayin some amazing spots especially chosen for you toexperience the real Australia. Ranging from Resorts offeringlodge or hotel-style accommodation in special locations toHotels in towns and city centres, each nightspot is as variedas the place you’ll visit.Accommodation is based on quad share and twin share(according to your booking). On the ‘Territory & Outback’,‘Alice & Uluru’, ‘Aussie Explorer’ and ‘Ocean to Outback’ tours,we spend a night in an outback bushcamp. Here we sleep in'swags'. All equipment and sleeping bags are supplied.Your holiday cost includes breakfast and dinner as per theitinerary. Some lunches are also provided (eg. on theWhitsunday Sailing Adventure). You also have the opportunityto experience special meals out which are not included inyour tour cost.

Your shareYour driver will need assistance to pack and unpack thecoach. The duties aren’t heavy and don’t take up too muchof your free time. It’s also a great way to get to know yourfellow travellers better.

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Touring - the factsAccommodated coach toursTransportYou’ll travel in style in one of Contiki’s fleet of speciallydesigned top quality coaches with air suspension, panoramicwindows and full stereo sound (bring your favourite music).The coaches also have DVD entertainment systems andcharging units for your personal electronic items such asiPod, mp3 player, digital camera, mobile phone, etc... Our coaches are selected by Contiki for their comfort andoverall suitability.For the duration of the tour, the coach is like home.Care should be taken to maintain its cleanliness. We donot regiment our clients so no system for seat rotation isarranged. However, out of consideration for others, front andwindow seats should not be monopolised. This also permitseverybody to mix rather than stay in isolated groups. To make the most of your days we sometimes make an early start.

SmokingSmoking is not permitted on Australian touring coaches.However, during each journey frequent stops are made, whenyou can smoke freely. We find this system to be the mostagreeable to all our clients concerning this sensitive issue.

MusicAll our coaches are fitted with state of the art audio and DVDsystems. However, our supply of music is not inexhaustibleand clients are invited to bring along their favourites. You’ll beable to take it in turns to choose the music. A guitar iswelcome - but it is your own responsibility.

Contiki BoutiqueDue to popular demand, Contiki offer a range of T-shirts,polo shirts and baseball caps.They’re a great memento of your Contiki Australia tour andvery useful year-round.Order yours from your Contiki Tour Manager.

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General informationHealth and hygieneLife on a Contiki tour can get quite hectic with early morningsand late nights which makes it easy for you to catch acommon cold or flu. Also, different air, water, food andlifestyle can reduce your resistance to sickness and you mayfind a course of vitamins will help you. Please keep thesepoints in mind while travelling - sickness can spoil awonderful holiday. If at any time you feel unwell, do nothesitate to inform your Tour Manager and he/she will assistyou in contacting a doctor for consultation.If you are on a regular course of medicine/contraception, it ispreferable to bring a supply sufficient for the whole time youare away from home, as your particular medicine and/orbrand may not be readily available. Everyday medicationse.g. band aids and aspirin are not carried on the coach andare the client’s own responsibility.Any client found using illegal drugs will immediately be toldto leave the tour.NB: It is very important that you continually maintain highstandards of personal hygiene to minimise the risk ofinfection and illness on tour. Your Tour Manager will provideyou with helpful hints as they relate to your tour.

BudgetingThis is a difficult subject to give advice on because theamount varies from person to person and a lot depends onhow much you spend on shopping, entertainment, drinks andoptional excursions.To cover extra expenses such as optional excursions, lunch,nights out, drinks and souvenirs, we suggest you budget upto A$80.00 per day. This amount will obviously varydepending on individual tastes and habits.

Optional excursionsAn Australian tour with Contiki is all about experiencing ‘oncein a lifetime’ outdoor adventures. Some of these are includedin the tour fare. However, there is also available a wide rangeof other exciting activities both on tour and in the gatewaycities before and after your tour.To assist you with planning your budget, you will be sent withyour final documents, a comprehensive day by day itineraryincluding full details and costs of the Optional Excursionsavailable on your tour. Most optional excursions can be paidby credit card. Your Tour Manager can advise you.Note: Contiki does not operate nor has any liability for anylisted excursion, but all are the responsibility of Third Party Operators.Please remember that all adventure activities are undertakenat your own risk. For any that you choose, the Tour Managerwill make firm bookings in advance and you will be liable forthe costs then.

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General informationTippingThis is becoming an increasingly accepted practice in allareas of the service industry, but particularly in restaurants,bars, and taxis worldwide. Likewise on your Contiki tour, ifyou feel that your Tour Manager and Driver have done anexcellent job, then as a guide we would recommend tippingup to the equivalent of A$3.00 per passenger per day.However, this is not compulsory. It's up to you!

PhotographyEnsure you have plenty of film or memory cards. Your TourManager will endeavour to allow as much time as possiblefor the taking of photographs, but on occasions, particularlywhen travelling in the coach, this will be difficult &impractical. Please be aware that Aborigines are sensitiveabout their image or specific sites being captured on film -ask your crew if a situation involving Aboriginal people isappropriate to photograph if you are unsure.

Calling homeMaking international calls is easy: dial the access number forAustralia (see your card for details or visitwww.contiki.ekit.com for a list of all access numbers). Enteryour ekit account number and pin (see the back of yourphonecard) and listen to the prompts. Dial the country code(e.g. UK 44, Australia 61 or America 1), area code (withoutthe leading zero) and the phone number you wish to call.Some of the properties we stay in will have a telephone inyour room and a connection fee will generally be charged.Sometimes, room phones will be barred unless a credit cardimprint is left for security.

Diving on the reef

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General informationWeekends and public holidaysIt is unavoidable to have a touring programme that is not in

certain places on weekends, public holidays and on days of

closure for public buildings, shops and museums. We regret

you may miss certain opportunities but these are kept to

a minimum.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 20091 January New Year's Day Australia26 January Australia Day Australia10 April Good Friday Australia11 April Easter Saturday Australia13 April Easter Monday Australia25 April Anzac Day Australia,4 May May Day/Labour Day QLD, NT8 June Queen’s Birthday Australia3 August Picnic Day NT12 August Royal Queensland Show QLD5 October Labour Day NSW25 December Christmas Day Australia

26 December Boxing Day Australia

NB: There may also be local holidays which may affect a single town or city.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS 20101 January New Year's Day Australia26 January Australia Day Australia2 April Good Friday Australia3 April Easter Saturday Australia5 April Easter Monday Australia26 April Anzac Day Australia,3 May May Day/Labour Day QLD, NT14 June Queen’s Birthday Australia2 August Picnic Day NT11 August Royal Queensland Show QLD4 October Labour Day NSW25 December Christmas Day Australia

26 December Boxing Day Australia

NB: There may also be local holidays which may affect a single town or city.

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General informationCALENDAR 2009

MarchS M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 6 78 9 10 11 12 13 1415 16 17 18 19 20 2122 23 24 25 26 27 2829 30 31

FebruaryS M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 6 78 9 10 11 12 13 1415 16 17 18 19 20 2122 23 24 25 26 27 28

JanuaryS M T W T F S

1 2 34 5 6 7 8 9 1011 12 13 14 15 16 1718 19 20 21 22 23 2425 26 27 28 29 30 31

AprilS M T W T F S

1 2 3 45 6 7 8 9 10 1112 13 14 15 16 17 1819 20 21 22 23 24 2526 27 28 29 30

MayS M T W T F S

31 1 23 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 1617 18 19 20 21 22 2324 25 26 27 28 29 30

JuneS M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10 11 12 1314 15 16 17 18 19 2021 22 23 24 25 26 2728 29 30

SeptemberS M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 56 7 8 9 10 11 1213 14 15 16 17 18 1920 21 22 23 24 25 2627 28 29 30

AugustS M T W T F S

30 31 12 3 4 5 6 7 89 10 11 12 13 14 1516 17 18 19 20 21 2223 24 25 26 27 28 29

JulyS M T W T F S

1 2 3 45 6 7 8 9 10 1112 13 14 15 16 17 1819 20 21 22 23 24 2526 27 28 29 30 31

OctoberS M T W T F S

1 2 34 5 6 7 8 9 1011 12 13 14 15 16 1718 19 20 21 22 23 2425 26 27 28 29 30 31

NovemberS M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 6 78 9 10 11 12 13 1415 16 17 18 19 20 2122 23 24 25 26 27 2829 30

DecemberS M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 56 7 8 9 10 11 1213 14 15 16 17 18 1920 21 22 23 24 25 2627 28 29 30 31

CALENDAR 2010March

S M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10 11 12 1314 15 16 17 18 19 2021 22 23 24 25 26 2728 29 30 31

FebruaryS M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10 11 12 1314 15 16 17 18 19 2021 22 23 24 25 26 2728

JanuaryS M T W T F S

31 1 23 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 1617 18 19 20 21 22 2324 25 26 27 28 29 30

AprilS M T W T F S

1 2 34 5 6 7 8 9 1011 12 13 14 15 16 1718 19 20 21 22 23 2425 26 27 28 29 30

MayS M T W T F S

30 31 12 3 4 5 6 7 89 10 11 12 13 14 1516 17 18 19 20 21 2223 24 25 26 27 28 29

JuneS M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 56 7 8 9 10 11 1213 14 15 16 17 18 1920 21 22 23 24 25 2627 28 29 30

SeptemberS M T W T F S

1 2 3 45 6 7 8 9 10 1112 13 14 15 16 17 1819 20 21 22 23 24 2526 27 28 29 30

AugustS M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 6 78 9 10 11 12 13 1415 16 17 18 19 20 2122 23 24 25 26 27 2829 30 31

JulyS M T W T F S

1 2 34 5 6 7 8 9 1011 12 13 14 15 16 1718 19 20 21 22 23 2425 26 27 28 29 30 31

OctoberS M T W T F S

31 1 23 4 5 6 7 8 910 11 12 13 14 15 1617 18 19 20 21 22 2324 25 26 27 28 29 30

NovemberS M T W T F S

1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10 11 12 1314 15 16 17 18 19 2021 22 23 24 25 26 2728 29 30

DecemberS M T W T F S

1 2 3 45 6 7 8 9 10 1112 13 14 15 16 17 1819 20 21 22 23 24 2526 27 28 29 30 31

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General informationClothing sizesSizes vary from country to country around the world. Nodoubt while in Australia you will want to buy clothes, so as aguide we have listed the approximate comparative sizes.However, we do recommend before making the purchase,you make sure you are happy that the size of the article youare purchasing is correct.

MENSuits and CoatsAmerican/English 36 38 40 42 44 46 48Continental 46 48 50 52 54 56 58ShirtsAmerican/English 15 15

1⁄2 153⁄4 16 16

1⁄2 17 Continental 38 39 40 41 42 43 SweatersSizes S M L XLAmerican/English 34 36-38 40-42 44Continental 44 46-48 50-52 54 ShoesAmerican 7

1⁄2 8 81⁄2 9

1⁄2 10 11Continental 40 41 42 43 44 45

WOMENDresses, Coats and SuitsAmerican 32 34 36 38 40

English 10 12 14 16 18

Continental 38 40 42 44 46

Blouses and SweatersAmerican 32 34 36 38 40 42 44

English 34 36 38 40 42 44 46

Continental 40 42 44 46 48 50 52

ShoesAmerican 5 5

1⁄2 61⁄2 7

1⁄2 81⁄2 9 9

1⁄2

English 31⁄2 4 5 6 7 7

1⁄2 8

Continental 36 37 38 39 40 41 42

CHILDRENChildren’s ClothesAmerican 1 4 6 8 10 13 15

English 1 2 5 7 9 10 12

Continental 1 2 5 7 9 10 12

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General information

Uluru

The Traveller�s Ten Commandments1. Thou shalt not expect to find things as they are at home for

thou hast left home to find things different.

2. Thou shalt not take things too seriously, for a carefree mind isthe beginning of a carefree holiday.

3. Thou shalt not let other tourists get on thy nerves as we are allhere for the same reason and thou art paying good money toenjoy thyself.

4. Thou must know at all times where thy passport lies, for aperson without a passport is a person without a country.

5. Thou shalt not worry, for he that worrieth hath no pleasure.

6. Remember that thou art a guest in other lands and he thattreateth his host with respect shall in turn be respected. To learnto speaketh �please� and �thank-you� in thy host�s tongue willmake thee thy host�s friend.

7. Thou shalt not judge the entire people of a country by oneperson who was a poor host.

8. Thou shalt remember that to err is human and to forgive is divine.

9. When in Rome, thou shalt be prepared to do as the Romans do.

10. Thou shouldst remember that if thou was expected to stay in oneplace, thou would have been created with roots.

Anon

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Australia informationThe following pages contain backgroundnotes on the history and geography ofAustralia. We hope you will find it useful andinteresting.Size: 4025 kms - East to West, 3220 kms - North to South

Area: 7,686,884 sq kms

Population: 21 million

Federal capital: Canberra, ACT

GeographyAustralia is the largest of islands and smallest of continents.Located in the Southern Hemisphere, South of Asia, thecoastline is 36,735 kms and is washed by 3 oceans and 4 seas.About 40% of the continent is in the tropics. It is almost thesame size as mainland United States and half as large againas Europe, excluding the former USSR.Australia is the only continent entirely occupied by onenation. The landscape has variety - tortured red desert togreen rainforest. Geologically, Australia is the oldest ofcontinents, and is a vast storehouse of the world’s prizedminerals and gemstones, including the famous Black Opal.Australia is the flattest continent with the only mountains over1,600 metres being in the southwest where the highest peak,Mt Kosciusko, rises above 2,200 metres.

Gulf of Carpentaria

Great Australian

Bight

Indian Ocean

Tasman Sea

Great Barrier Reef

NORTHERN TERRITORY

NEW SOUTH WALES

VICTORIA

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

WESTERNAUSTRALIA

QUEENSLAND

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Australia informationClimateAustralia is the driest continent, but in parts the averageannual rainfall exceeds 375 cms. The rainfall is uneven indistribution and areas, but generally speaking the highestrainfall is found in the Western Tasmanian highlands and theNorth Queensland ranges. In the tropics, summer and autumnare the ‘wet’ seasons, and the winter and spring the ‘dry’.In the temperate south, falls are more even with most raingenerally falling in winter and spring. Except in the highcountry of the south east and in Tasmania, severe winterspells are unusual. Except again for the south east, summerscan be extremely hot with temperatures above 38oC beingcommon inland. The record highest temperature in Australiawas 58oC in Cloncurry in Western Queensland in 1889,but Marble Bar in Western Australia consistently hastemperatures above 50oC. In the ‘wet’ season, the northernthird of the continent is occasionally visited by cyclones withwind exceeding 160 kms per hour. They are accompanied byrains causing severe floodings and disruption to road andrail communications.

European history1606: William Jansz in the ‘Duyfken’ discovered and

chartered 200 miles off the Northern Australian Coast.

1616: Dirk Hartog made the first recorded landfall on theAustralian Coast.

1644: Abel Tasman discovered Australia and New Zealand.

1770: Captain James Cook landed at Botany Bay.

1788: Captain Arthur Phillip set up a penal colony on thesite of the present-day Sydney, New South Wales.

1803: Convict settlement sited at Hobart, Tasmania.

1824: Another convict settlement was begun at MoretonBay, now known as Brisbane in Queensland.

1829: The British Government formed a new colony inWestern Australia with its capital at Perth.

1835: John Batman ‘purchased’ land from the Aborigines topasture sheep. That land is now known as Melbourne.

1836: Adelaide, the capital of South Australia was founded.

1851: Edward Hargraves became the ‘discoverer’ of gold inAustralia after panning a small quantity near Bathurst.Over the next 50 odd years the ‘gold rush’ brought apopulation explosion and prosperity to Australia.

1901: The Commonwealth of Australia came into being as afederation of the States.

1988: Australian Bicentenary.

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Australia informationNorthern TerritoryAlice Springs: Located in almost the geographical centre ofAustralia and 1,000 kilometres from the nearest capital city,Alice Springs is the gateway to the Northern Territory’sbiggest tourist attraction, Uluru and is a modern oasis in theMacDonnell Ranges. Alice Springs was discovered by WilliamWhitfield Mills in 1871 while surveying a route for OverlandTelegraph lines between Adelaide and Darwin and wasnamed in honour of Lady Alice Todd, wife of theSuperintendent of Telegraphs.Uluru (Ayers Rock): Uluru is known as the most famouslandmark of the Australian Outback. This monolith is of greatspiritual significance to the Aboriginal people and its nametranslates to a place of shade. Uluru is a spectacular sight at anytime of day, but particularly amazing at sunrise or sunset whenthe colours change. Rising dramatically out of the vast plain,Uluru is 3.6 km long (2.2 miles) and 348 metres high (1141 ft)Darwin: The capital of the Northern Territory and principalport of entry from Europe and Asia. Port Darwin wasdiscovered in 1839 and named after Charles Darwin. It wasnot chosen as a town site until 1866 and not permanentlypopulated until 1869.The new town was originally named Palmerston and was soknown until 1911 when the name was officially changed toDarwin. In early days, Darwin’s growth was slow, however,the mineral and pastoral wealth in the Northern Territory hasmade Darwin into the prosperous city it is today.

Step aboard for an unforgettable helicopter scenicflight taking in the enormity of Uluru 'Ayers Rock' &the splendour of Kata Tjuta 'The Olgas'.

The combined spectacle will astound you. Don'tleave wishing you had done it.SEE YOUR TOUR MANAGER TO BOOK

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Australia informationNorthern Territory cont’d:Devils Marbles: 96 kilometres south of Tennant Creek giantboulders, many almost spherical, pile perilously upon eachother. They are huge, red, black and sand coloured boulderslooking like old-fashioned cottage loaves. Their formation hasbeen the result of erosion of a great granite outcrop crackingand weathering.Kakadu National Park: Kakadu, one of the most scenicparks in Australia, contains two kinds of wilderness: the blacksoil flood plains and paperbark lagoons of the Alligator Riversystem, and the rugged walls of the Arnhem Landescarpment which is deeply indented with gorges, streamsand waterfalls. At the northern end of Kakadu is a series ofshallow lagoons and billabongs which attract thousands ofwater birds. Also in this area is Cannon Hill, the Aboriginal‘art gallery’ of Arnhem Land.Katherine: Along the Stuart Highway known as ‘the track’,354 kilometres south of Darwin is the town of Katherine andthe spectacular Katherine Gorge National Park. Here theclear river flows between towering, brilliantly coloured wallsto form one of the most fascinating river canyons in Australia.The Katherine River was named after the daughter of one ofthe sponsors of John McDougall Stuart, who was the firstman to find it in 1862.

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Australia informationNorthern Territory cont’d:Kings Canyon: The spectacular Kings Canyon, 100 kilometresto the south west of Alice Springs. A climb to the rim of theCanyon will be rewarded with a view of the ‘Lost City’weathered rock which resembles the ruins of an ancient city;and the ‘Gardens of Eden’, a valley where permanentwaterholes are overgrown with ancient cycad palms.Litchfield National Park: Litchfield Park, west of Batchelor inthe Tabletop Range, is a huge sandstone plateau cloaked withdry woodlands and forests. Close to the edge of theescarpment, springs bubble into creeks that have their ultimatedestination within the rainforest valleys below, makingspectacular waterfalls which flow throughout the year. Parts ofthe park are accessible in the dry season by two-wheel drivetracks, while Sandy Creek Falls and the Lost City, an area offantastic sandstone formations - are at the end of four-wheeldrive tracks.Mataranka: Further south from Katherine is the MatarankaPool Reserve, near the Mataranka Homestead. Thermalsprings are surrounded by lush tropical forest and the water isalways at body temperature.

QueenslandBrisbane: With a population of over 1 million people, Brisbaneis the capital city of the State of Queensland. The centre ofBrisbane is situated on the Brisbane River, 34 kms upstreamfrom Moreton Bay. A penal colony was the first settlement herein 1824, but those ‘days of old’ are now days of gold. Brisbanehas a tropical climate, and was the Host City for World Expo in1988. Make sure to visit Queen Street Mall, the shopping hubof the city, or South Bank, the extensively redeveloped site ofExpo ‘88’Cairns: Undoubtedly Queensland’s most casual, exciting andcolourful city, ‘capital’ of the tropical north. The city was moreor less founded in 1876, with a settlement which grew onTrinity Bay to service gold and tin fields up-country. Sugarcane growing was established in the 1880’s. Cairns wasproclaimed a town in 1903, and a city in 1923. Modern Cairnsstill relies heavily on sugar for its prosperity. Daydream Island Resort: This modern resort is set on its ownexclusive island in the heart of the Whitsundays. Theres aterrific range of watersports like kayaks and sailingcatamarans, plus beach games and educational marine talks,or just go snorkeling off one of the pristine beaches. Maybetry the resort’s tennis courts, gym, or beach games or chill outaround the pool with nightly entertainment including a uniqueopen air cinema. Fraser Island: This is the largest sand island in the world.The island takes its name as a consequence of a shipwreck inMay 1836; a passenger, Mrs Eliza Fraser, reached the island

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Australia informationQueensland cont’d:and her subsequent tales of her days spent there with theAborigines meant that her name was applied to the area. Inthe 1970’s, a battle between sandminers andconservationists, led by John Sinclair, resulted in a federalgovernment ban on the mining of its sand. A successfulcrusade saw logging banned in 1991 and in 1993 FraserIsland was added to the World Heritage list. The island isknown for its dunes, freshwater lakes, crystal creeks,wetlands and rainforests.Hervey Bay: The bay was named by Captain Cook in 1770and Matthew Flinders landed here in 1799. Today, HerveyBay is a major tourist attraction with passenger cruises andcar ferries departing from here for Fraser Island. The bay isone of the best fishing areas on the Queensland coast. Frommid August to mid October, families of humpback whalesstop in the bay to rest and play, returning south to Antarcticaafter calving in northern waters.Kuranda: The railway line from Cairns climbs through 15tunnels and superb scenery to Kuranda, at the top of theMacalister Range, 34 kms from Cairns. Kuranda’s picturepostcard railway station, decked out in tropical flowers andferns, is justly famous. Other attractions of this quaint villageon the edge of the Atherton Tableland include the colourfulmorning markets, with produce and coral arts and crafts ondisplay - there’s quite a large ‘alternative’ establishment livingin Kuranda.Noosa Heads: Noosa Heads is the most northerly of theSunshine Coast resorts, and is unique in terms of its naturalscenery and atmosphere. A combination of the NoosaNational Park, a protected main beach facing north, and afashionable resort town without Gold Coast-style high-risedevelopment.Port Douglas: In the early days of the far north’sdevelopment, Port Douglas was actually a rival for Cairns.It eventually became a quiet, little fishing town, until peoplebegan to realise what a delightful, laid back little place it was.Now it’s quite a busy tourist centre. It’s 67 kms north ofCairns, along the Cook Highway.Sunshine Coast: The Sunshine Coast is a 48 kilometre longseries of magnificent beaches, punctuated by rockyheadlands and river mouths that stretch north fromCaloundra to Noosa Heads, one or two hours drive fromBrisbane. Following the coastal highway from Caloundra themain beaches are Currimundi, Mooloolaba, AlexandraHeadland, Maroochydore, Mudjimba, Marcoola, Coolum,Peregian, Sunshine Beach and Noosa Heads. Surfing isexcellent almost anywhere, but the resorts themselves varyfrom being very casual to quite sophisticated. The SunshineCoast, often called the North Coast by Brisbane people,tends to be quieter and more natural than the more highlydeveloped Gold (or South) Coast strip, with interesting andvaried scenery in the Hinterland.

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Australia informationQueensland cont’dSurfers Paradise: Surfers Paradise is undoubtedly thebrightest star along the 30 odd kilometres of beaches,relaxation and development that makes up the Gold Coast.In 1936, Mr Jim Cavill built a hotel at a quiet spot 9kilometres south of Southport, at a place called Umbi-Gumbiby the Aborigines, meaning ‘the place of the ant’. Mr Cavillcalled his establishment the Surfers Paradise Hotel and it stillstands today, although somewhat lost among the spectacular high-rise development that exploded in the late 1950’s and1960’s. Surfers Paradise is famous for its surfing beachesand friendly weather.

Townsville: In 1864, a progressive sea captain named RobertTowns commissioned James Melton Black to build a wharfand established a settlement on Cleveland Bay to service thenew cattle industry inland. Townsville was gazetted in 1865,and declared a city in 1903. Today, Townsville is Queensland’sthird largest city and still rapidly expanding.

Whitsunday Islands: The Whitsunday group of islands offthe coast of central Queensland (Mackay to Proserpine),enjoy the same latitude as Tahiti and Samoa. It is a cluster of74 islands, six of which are resorts and the remaining 68uninhabited. They were discovered by Captain Cook on WhitSunday, June 3, 1770.

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Australia informationNew South WalesByron Bay: Surfers from near and far gravitate to Watego’sBeach, on Cape Byron. It is one of the best beaches forsurfboard riding on the east coast, due to its northerlyaspect. Australia’s most powerful lighthouse is situatednearby at Cape Byron, the most easterly point of theAustralian mainland.Sydney: The capital of New South Wales and Australia’s oldestand largest city. Sydney was discovered by Captain Cook in1770 and first settled by Europeans in 1788 by Captain ArthurPhillip as a penal colony. The city grew in chaos for manyyears until 1810 when Governor Macquarie set about restoringorder and improving roads and communications.The city soon became a major shipping and trading centrefor the south west Pacific. Today, Sydney has the world’sbest natural harbour with 55 sq kilometres of water cateringfor 4,000 vessels each year.Newcastle: With a population of 260,000, Newcastle isNSW’s second largest city and one of the largest in Australia.Situated 167 kms north of Sydney at the mouth of the HunterRiver, it’s a major industrial and commercial centre.Coffs Harbour: Capital of the NSW ‘Banana Republic’Coffs Harbour with its population of 66,000 is one of themost popular northern coastal resort towns. The mainindustries are tourism, bananas, avocados and tropical fruits.

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Australia informationAustralian Capital TerritoryCanberra: In 1927, Federal Parliament transferred from itstemporary seat in Melbourne to Canberra and in 1988(Australia’s bicentennial year), Parliament made its last movefrom the famous old Parliament House to the quite radicallydesigned ‘new’ and permanent building, opened by HerMajesty, Queen Elizabeth II.

South AustraliaAdelaide: The city of Adelaide was named by ColonelWilliam Light in 1836, after Queen Adelaide, the wife of KingWilliam IV of England. The capital of South Australia,Adelaide is situated on the Torrens River and is Australia’sfourth largest city.

VictoriaMelbourne: The first permanent settlement on the YarraRiver was established in 1836 and in 1837 was namedMelbourne, in honour of the British Prime Minister, LordMelbourne. From Federation in 1901 until the establishmentof a national capital at Canberra in 1927, Melbourne was theseat of Federal Government. Today Melbourne is the capitalof the state of Victoria.

TasmaniaHobart: Hobart is an enchanting little city built around abeautiful yacht-studded harbour in the shadow of majesticMt Wellington. A strong sea-faring flavour and sense of thepast gives Hobart an almost European air. This feeling isheightened in summer when Hobart gets plenty of sparklingblue days but temperatures rarely exceed 25oC. Many ofHobart’s beautiful early colonial sandstone buildings wereerected by the sweat and blood of the unfortunate convictswho formed the majority of the first settlers in 1803. Hobart’sdeepwater harbour on the estuary of the Derwent River is athriving seaport.

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Travellers Guide - Australia 2009-2010

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