Undara - Best Job In The World – Best Secret in the World

For 2 days Greg Reynen and James Hill thought they had fallen down the rabbit hole. Finalists in Tourism Queenslands award winning marketing campaign “The Best Job in the World”, they had unwittingly put their hand up to be at the mercy of a rigorous whirlwind tour of North Queensland which this weekend included Undara Experience.

Set in the Gulf Savannah region just a short a 45 minute scenic flight from Cairns and Townsville, Undara fulfilled the outback expectations of both Greg, an American based in Singapore, and James an Aussie with strong links in the UK. After visiting nearby Cobbold Gorge they were introduced to the world’s oldest lava tubes before a night around the campfire and the chance to enjoy some of that country hospitality this region is famous for.

Tropical North Queensland’s true diversity was apparent– reinforcing the fact that there is more to this area that just reef and rainforest. With professional tour operators like Sky Safari providing safe and efficient transport, both Greg and James were surprised that a place like Undara hasn’t received more attention within the media spotlight. With tougher economic conditions and the trend for Australians to holiday closer to home, they felt that both Undara and the area were ideal destinations.

Blogging their way around the state and continuing to attract the world’s media attention, Greg and James are showing off the range of tourism options in Tropical North Queensland. During an 8 day tour of the region they will be mountain biking, jungle surfing, whale watching, snorkelling, jetsking, blo-karting and whitewater rafting.

Centre of Learning now Includes Kakadu

Tourism NT’s successful online trade training program has been extended to include an interactive Kakadu and Arnhem Land module, assisting travel agents to convert interest in the NT to actual sales.

NT Destination & Partnership Marketing Manager Mark Crummy said the online training ceNTre first launched a Red Centre module in March that has already seen solid take up by travel agents.

“The new Kakadu and Arnhem Land training module increases travel agent knowledge about this World Heritage-listed destination, so they are able to offer their customers a great value destination, that also delivers a high yield sale,” Mr Crummy said.

“In today’s uncertain economic climate Australian travellers are more interested in staying closer to home and are looking for holidays that offer greater value for money in addition to an emotional return.

“The training program taps into this shifting consumer sentiment by increasing travel agent knowledge of the key life-changing experiences in the NT, in addition to distance, climate and access information.

“Industry feedback has already been extremely positive confirming that this program enables agents to better understand the destination and sell NT holidays with more confidence,” he said.

Course participants also receive rewards including eligibility to attend Tourism NT famils and priority invitations to Tourism NT trade events.

A new Darwin Module is currently under development and scheduled to launch in August.

To access Tourism NT’s new online training program log onto trade.travelnt.com and become a NT Community member.

Brisbane Whale Watching…..Closer Than you Think!

Brisbane Whale Watching is gearing up for a bumper season 2009, welcoming guests from near and far to share in an unforgettable up close encounter with the mighty Humpback whales.

Brisbane Whale Watching is gearing up for a bumper season 2009, welcoming guests from near and far to share in an unforgettable up close encounter with the mighty Humpback whales.

As a part of the official celebrations the Minister for Tourism, Peter Lawlor will be on board MV Eye-Spy at Redcliffe Jetty to officially open Brisbane Whale Watching Season 2009 this Saturday 27 June at 9.45am.

“It has been a challenging past six months for the region with major environmental issues impacting the bay. We are delighted to welcome Minister Peter Lawlor to officially open our season and join us all in conveying the important message that it is now “business as usual” for the local business community” said Kerry Lopez, captain and managing director of Brisbane Whale Watching.

“With 10,000 whales sighted in the bay last year and an estimated 10-12% growth forecast for the season ahead, this is confirmation of a healthy whale population migrating through the bay… amazing when you think back to 1964 when we had just 100!” confirmed Ms Lopez.

Brisbane Whale Watching now in its 14th year of operation is privileged to be one of only two permit holders licensed to operate commercial cruises in the Moreton Bay Marine Park.

“Not only are there the countless pods of playful Humpback whales to be sighted, but also the dolphins, logger-head turtles, bird-life and also some special repeat visitors, like Stitches, the whale identified with a cross mark.”

The multi-million dollar purpose built luxury catamaran, MV Eye-Spy is skippered by the South Pacific’s only female captain of a whale watching venture, Captain Kerry Lopez.

Built to specifications for whale watching expeditions, Eye-Spy represents the ultimate in design, stability and technology. With a capacity to host up to three hundred guests, the six viewing decks and large bow allow for unobstructed viewing from all points. Floor to ceiling glass with air-conditioned comfort means staying inside will not hinder your viewing pleasure.

Enhanced seating along with excellent sea keeping qualities makes traveling to and from the whale sighting grounds both comfortable and enjoyable.

Fitted with low noise propellers to minimize noise, while electronically controlled engines reduce fuel usage and exhaust emissions all ensure MV Eye-Spy remains environmentally friendly to both the whales and all other marine life.

The Brisbane Whale Watching experience includes a delicious morning and afternoon tea, plus gourmet buffet lunch and expert marine commentary.

Tours depart daily at 10am returning at approximately 2.30pm from 27 June until November, leaving from Redcliffe Jetty, an easy 30 minute drive from downtown Brisbane. Daily coach transfers are available from Brisbane CBD, Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast.

For further information and bookings visit www.brisbanewhalewatching.com.au

Crown Towers and Rockpool Bar & Grill Melbourne Join Forces to Offer the Perfect Indulgent Escape

Crown Towers in association with Neil Perry is thrilled to offer a luxurious new accommodation package featuring an indulgent dining experience for two at Rockpool Bar & Grill Melbourne.

This exclusive package includes overnight accommodation in one of Crown Towers’ recently upgraded Studio rooms, which have recently undergone a stylish and extensive refurbishment,valet parking, a bottle of Australian wine on arrival and lunch for two at the award-winning Rockpool Bar & Grill Melbourne.

The new rooms and suites feature custom-made furniture, bespoke soft furnishings, the latest in-room technology and specially commissioned Australian artwork. Each room and suite has been individually designed to create a residential experience for frequent guests and those who appreciate tailored luxury.

Since its opening in October 2006, Rockpool Bar & Grill has earned an enviable reputation for delivering a great produce-driven experience that fuses the Rockpool ethos with a classic North American steakhouse. Diners can sample the country’s best produce, share various cuts of meat to experience the depth of variety available and indulge in a selection of fantastic side dishes.

The indulgent lunch includes a glass of French Champagne on arrival, a shared menu of Rockpool Bar & Grill’s signature dishes and tea or coffee. This package is subject to availability, 7 days*, from $499.00 per room, per night. (*excludes Saturday lunch).

Bookings may be made by contacting Crown Towers reservations on +61 3 9292 6868, 1800 811 653 or by emailing reservations@crowntowers.com.au.

Jazz in the Vines packages from Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley has released a range of weekend Jazz in the Vines packages for couples and groups planning to attend the highly anticipated annual festival, to be held on Saturday 31 October.

Now in its 17th year, the 2009 festival is held at Tyrrell’s Vineyard and boasts seven hours of live music. With a stellar line-up of artists including James Morrison, who is back by popular demand from last year; Watussi; the award winning Galapagos Duck; Australia’s Army Band, Dixie Jazz Band; and Ladies of Jazz, featuring Christine Anu, Grace Knight, Paulini and Monica Trapaga.

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley’s Jazz in the Vines packages, which include two nights’ accommodation, breakfast in Redsalt daily and tickets and transfers to the festival start at $1,030.00 for two in a deluxe hotel room and $1,580.00 for four in a two bedroom villa. For larger groups, book a Jazz in the Vines package staying in one of Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley’s new three bedroom villas from $2,050.00 for six people.

Upgraded Jazz in the Vines packages incorporating Alfresco and VIP tickets to the event are also available across all accommodation options.
The new, fully contained three bedroom villas can sleep up to six people and feature two bathrooms, large living and dining area and a kitchen, no more than a couple of minute’s walk from Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley’s many dining and recreational facilities. In addition, all three-bedroom villas have two terraces, three large LCD TVs and all the modern technology to get you connected.

With the Brokenback Mountain ranges as a backdrop, the festival not only attracts some of the finest jazz, soul and funk musicians, it showcases the best of the Hunter Valley’s food and wine. While party goers are free to bring their own picnics, Crowne Plaza’s Redsalt restaurant, The Verandah Restuarant, Esca Restaurant and The Hunter Valley Cheese Company are just a few of the local restaurants offering gourmet meals and snacks. Six of the region’s most popular wineries, including Tyrrell’s and Bimbadgen, will have bottles on the day, while Peterson’s Champagne House will set up its own bubble’s bar, offering revellers a superb menu to match the entertainment experience.

Made up of four of Australia’s most well known female music artists, Ladies of Jazz promise to be a highlight for the day as they come together to pay homage to legendary greats, providing a show of music celebrating the many decades of jazz.

Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley is the perfect place for jazz lovers looking to kick on after the festival. The resort’s four restaurants and bars include Grapevine Café-Bar – overlooking the pool and open for cocktails, wine, food and a wide array of beers from around the world –and Vista Lounge, the hotel’s specialty whisky bar, which is open well into the night.

For the rest of the weekend, the award winning Crowne Plaza Hunter Valley, offers guests a range of recreational activities. Set amongst its own 18-hole golf course, the hotel features a huge outdoor pool, tennis and basketball courts, gym and Tea Tree Spa. Featuring a range of individual and group treatment rooms, including the VIP suite and Sanctuary Spa Suite, Tea Tree Spa provides visitors to the Hunter with a unique individual or group pampering experience.

For more information on the Jazz in the Vines accommodation packages or to make a booking, call 02 4991 0900. For more information on Jazz in the Vines, visit www.jazzinthevines.com.au

Mid Year Christmas Cheer At Shoal Bay Resort & Spa

uly is all about celebrating and relaxing at Shoal Bay Resort & Spa with the Promenade
Restaurant hosting weekly “Christmas in July” buffets and the Aqua Spa’s popular monthly mid
week special.

Every Sunday night during the month of July treat your family, friends or social group to a
delectable “Christmas in July” buffet dinner. Choose from four delicious buffet menus of your
very own Christmas favourites including seafood and salads, carvery and grill, home cooked
favourites and decadent desserts. Enjoy this unforgettable array of local cuisine at affordable
prices from just $32 per adult, children at half price, free under the age of five and seniors
discount is also available.

The iconic Promenade Dining Room is the original dining room of Shoal Bay Country Club and
has been a favourite of guests and local residents since 1934. The Chefs and staff pride
themselves on quality local food, fantastic value for money, friendly service and look forward to
welcoming you to Christmas in July celebrations.

The Aqua Day Spa continues its popular monthly mid-week specials during July with your choice
of a Complete Well Being Massage or an Elemis Spa Facial Treatment for only $90* and receive a
FREE five minute mineral makeover.

Complete Well Being Massage
The power of this ancient touch creates sensations of pleasure and wellness to deeply heal your
mind and body while soothing your soul. Your skin is lightly brushed, before the gently warmed
pure massage oils are smoothed and massaged over the body.


Elemis Spa Facial Treatment
Personally tailored to your skin type, this indulgent facial provides a quick and instant pick-me-
up for dull, lifeless skin as well as an excellent pre-makeup facial for that very special occasion.
Perfect for this cold time of year to refresh and revive your skin.

The July mid week offer includes complimentary use of the Aqua Spa’s exclusive facilities:-

The unique salt, mineral and freshwater spa pools
25m heated indoor lap pool
Refreshment room
Relaxation Deck
Fully equipped gymnasium

The Aqua Spa’s unique thalassotherapy mineral spa pools have tapped into the pristine salt
waters of Shoal Bay and the mineral rich waters of the surrounding sand beds to offer treatments
with the elements necessary for life - water, oxygen and light. This extraordinary experience is
unique to the southern hemisphere and provides the ultimate in water massage therapy. Aqua
Spa guests must be 16 years & over to utilise facilities and persons aged 16-18 must be
accompanied by a parent or guardian.

The Aqua Spa also stocks an exclusive range of Elemis and Youngblood products and offers an
extensive range of face and body treatments including manicures, pedicures, waxing and spray
tans. Visit www.shoalbayresort.com for our complete range of treatments or ask about our gift
vouchers.

Bookings for Christmas in July and the Aqua Day Spa mid-week special can be made by calling
1800 18 18 10.

Shoal Bay Resort & Spa….the place to be during July!


About Shoal Bay Resort & Spa

Shoal Bay Resort & Spa is the ultimate beachfront resort for couples and families alike. Including
200 luxurious self-contained beachfront, waterview, pool view and executive style apartments, 4
restaurants, 5 bars, the iconic Country Club Hotel and the exclusive Aqua Spa.

Shoal Bay Resort & Spa overlooks the pristine white sandy beaches to Port Stephens volcanic
Tomaree headland. Shoal Bay boasts walking and cycling tracks, flat water beaches perfect for
families as well as three pristine unspoilt National Park surf beaches. For the more energetic a
paved pathway to the top of Tomaree affords unparalleled views of Port Stephens, all within sight
and a 10 minute stroll of the resort. Port Stephens is the largest Marine Park in NSW with over
160 resident dolphins and 7000 Humpback Whales passing within sight on migration each year.

Dining options range from the award winning Catch at Shoal Bay, the casual alfresco dining of
Sandyfoot Café, the iconic Promenade Dining Room and the family friendly Mermaids Bar & Grill.
The legendary Country Club Hotel still remains one of the most popular watering holes on the
East Coast of Australia.

Aqua Spa includes the unique thalassotherapy mineral spa pools, twelve treatments rooms,
group room and an extensive menu of treatments from hydrotherapy to massage.

For further information please call T: 1800 18 18 10 or visit www.shoalbayresort.com

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Kickstarts Meetings Sector With Launch Of The Richest Offer Ever:"Free Meeting + Free Nights" Meeting Package

Starwood Hotels & Resorts today announced the launch of the richest meeting offer ever: the “Free Meetings + Free Nights” meeting package to help take the load off companies planning events and conferences this year. Starwood's biggest meetings offer ever includes free meetings and free stays for every three-night residential meeting booked – a savings of up to 50%. One- and two-night residential conference bookings also enjoy the meetings component for free.

This “Free Meetings + Free Nights” generous offer will be available at more than 100 hotels in Asia Pacific in many popular travel and meetings destinations including China, Japan, Southeast Asia, South Asia, Australia, New Zealand and Fiji. Participating brands include aloft, Westin, Sheraton, St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, Four Points by Sheraton, W and Le Méridien.

Meeting planners can find more details on this offer as well as a list of destinations and hotels at www.starwoodmeetings.com . Note: The offer is valid until March 2010 for bookings by September 2009.

www.starwoodmeetings.com is one of the most robust meetings-related websites in the industry. Featuring a variety of attractive offers, rewards and recognition, and comprehensive search
options, it is an easy-to-use, one-stop resource for organising events of any scale. An industry-first MICE widget, which sits on the desktop of event organisers, provides organisers with the most
relevant information on promotions, meetings packages and updates within the shortest time.

* terms and conditions apply. Please visit www.starwoodmeetings.com for the full terms and conditions.

Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc. is one of the leading hotel and leisure companies in the world with more than 930 properties in approximately 97 countries and 145,000 employees at its owned and managed properties. Starwood Hotels is a fully integrated owner, operator and franchisor of hotels, resorts and residences with the following internationally renowned brands: St. Regis®, The Luxury Collection®, W®, Westin®, Le Méridien®, Sheraton®, Four Points® by Sheraton, and the recently launched AloftSM, and ElementSM. Starwood Hotels also owns Starwood Vacation Ownership, Inc., one of the premier developers and operators of high quality vacation interval ownership resorts. For more information, please visit www.starwoodhotels.com.

Brisbane Whale Watching…..Closer Than you Think!

Brisbane Whale Watching is gearing up for a bumper season 2009, welcoming guests from near and far to share in an unforgettable up close encounter with the mighty Humpback whales.

Brisbane Whale Watching is gearing up for a bumper season 2009, welcoming guests from near and far to share in an unforgettable up close encounter with the mighty Humpback whales.

As a part of the official celebrations the Minister for Tourism, Peter Lawlor will be on board MV Eye-Spy at Redcliffe Jetty to officially open Brisbane Whale Watching Season 2009 this Saturday 27 June at 9.45am.

“It has been a challenging past six months for the region with major environmental issues impacting the bay. We are delighted to welcome Minister Peter Lawlor to officially open our season and join us all in conveying the important message that it is now “business as usual” for the local business community” said Kerry Lopez, captain and managing director of Brisbane Whale Watching.

“With 10,000 whales sighted in the bay last year and an estimated 10-12% growth forecast for the season ahead, this is confirmation of a healthy whale population migrating through the bay… amazing when you think back to 1964 when we had just 100!” confirmed Ms Lopez.

Brisbane Whale Watching now in its 14th year of operation is privileged to be one of only two permit holders licensed to operate commercial cruises in the Moreton Bay Marine Park.

“Not only are there the countless pods of playful Humpback whales to be sighted, but also the dolphins, logger-head turtles, bird-life and also some special repeat visitors, like Stitches, the whale identified with a cross mark.”

The multi-million dollar purpose built luxury catamaran, MV Eye-Spy is skippered by the South Pacific’s only female captain of a whale watching venture, Captain Kerry Lopez.

Built to specifications for whale watching expeditions, Eye-Spy represents the ultimate in design, stability and technology. With a capacity to host up to three hundred guests, the six viewing decks and large bow allow for unobstructed viewing from all points. Floor to ceiling glass with air-conditioned comfort means staying inside will not hinder your viewing pleasure.

Enhanced seating along with excellent sea keeping qualities makes traveling to and from the whale sighting grounds both comfortable and enjoyable.

Fitted with low noise propellers to minimize noise, while electronically controlled engines reduce fuel usage and exhaust emissions all ensure MV Eye-Spy remains environmentally friendly to both the whales and all other marine life.

The Brisbane Whale Watching experience includes a delicious morning and afternoon tea, plus gourmet buffet lunch and expert marine commentary.

Tours depart daily at 10am returning at approximately 2.30pm from 27 June until November, leaving from Redcliffe Jetty, an easy 30 minute drive from downtown Brisbane. Daily coach transfers are available from Brisbane CBD, Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast.

For further information and bookings visit www.brisbanewhalewatching.com.au

Plenty to do at Suzanne's Hideaway

Suzanne’s Hideaway is a small luxury accommodation resort between Byron Bay and Lismore in spectacular Northern NSW. The resort offers a variety of self-contained accommodation and facilities amid sub-tropical gardens and macadamia orchards.

There is plenty to do at Suzanne's Hideaway. Play tennis day or night on the synthetic grass tennis court, exercise in the gym or relax by the 13m saltwater swimming pool. Walk to the rainforest-lined river and swim or fish. Stroll around the fields of grazing cattle. Amble through the macadamia orchard. Many just sit and take in the spectacular sub-tropical setting and expansive country vistas from their verandah.

Things to Do

Suzanne’s Hideaway is an easy 3km walk to Clunes village with licensed general store and cafe, and is centrally located with a 25 minute drive to Byron Bay, a 20 minute drive to Lismore, or a 15 minute drive to Bangalow. Byron Bay offers bay beaches, whale and dolphin watching, learn-to-surf lessons, hang gliding, sky diving, secluded rainforest accessed beaches, shopping, night-life and a multitude of dining. The Byron Bay Hinterland offers innumerable things-to do-and sights to see including: quaint rural villages with art galleries, antique shops, cafes and restaurants, World Heritage Listed rainforest walking trails and waterfalls, mountain biking tours, horse-riding tours, hot air ballooning, ultralight flights, helicopter flights, and weekend markets with local arts & crafts, plants, fruit & veges, clothing and a huge selection of tasty foods.

Suzanne's Hideaway,
20 Elliot Rd Clunes, via Lismore.
NSW. 2480
Australia

ph : 61 (0)2 66291228
fax : 61 (0)2 66291557
mob : 0416 028728

e : suzanne@suzanneshideaway.com.au
w : www.suzanneshideaway.com.au

member of www.byronhinterland.com.au accommodation group

FINLAND CELEBRATES THE 160TH YEAR OF THE KALEVALA

The Finnish national epic, the Kalevala, celebrates its 160th year in 2009. The book, whose hero causes his rival to sink in a bog by shamanistic singing, was a source of inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien in creating the Lord of the Rings. Kalevala has been translated to 60 languages.

Kalevala is a literary work and epic poem composed in the late nineteenth century from collected ancient Finnish and Karelian tales, lyrics, dirges and proverbs. The book was compiled on eleven fieldtrips to Karelia by a doctor of medicine Elias Lönnrot who hoped to increase the Finns' awareness of their identity as a nation. As the national epic of Finland, the Kalevala is the nation's cultural equivalent to the tales of King Arthur for the English, or Iliad and Odyssey for the Greeks.

The central character of Kalevala, Wäinämöinen, is a wise old bard and shaman who, among other feats, vanquishes his opponent in a singing contest by sinking him into a bog and creates the first kantele, the traditional Finnish string instrument, out of the jawbones of a pike.

The Kalevala was hugely successful when first published and became the inspiration for the Finnish national revival, a movement epitomized by the paintings of Akseli Gallen-Kallela (1865-1931), and the music of Jean Sibelius (1865-1957). The book has been recognized internationally with translations in 60 languages.

The national epic continues to influence modern Finnish cultural life, literature, arts and music. It is not uncommon to find Finnish businesses that have taken inspiration from elements of the Kalevala in naming and developing their products and innovations.

Experience Kalevala-inspired art

To celebrate the jubilee, the Ateneum Art Museum in Helsinki is exhibiting an extensive collection of art inspired by the Kalevala. The exhibit aims to open new perspectives on the enormous production of Kalevala-themed art, from the national icons produced by Akseli Gallen-Kallela to a vast number of lesser-known works. The exhibition runs until August 9th.

For more information visit www.ateneum.fi

Envelop yourself in Kalevala-inspired surroundings

The spirit of the Kalevala can be experienced at the Hotel Kalevala located in Kuhmo, in Eastern Finland. The shape of the hotel is inspired by the bird "Kokko", a giant eagle which is a central figure in the national epic. Full of tradition and folklore, the Kuhmo region offers a variety of attractions such as the chance to discover the taiga forests either on foot or by husky sledge or get to know Karelian culture at the Juminkeko Center of Kalevala.

For more information visit www.hotellikalevala.fi

The Klaus K design hotel located at the centre of Helsinki is another establishment that cherishes the traditions of the Kalevala. The Kalevala's themes of mysticism, passion, desire and envy, are reflected in the four different design motifs of the hotel's rooms.

For more information visit www.klauskhotel.com

Indulge yourself in the flavors of Kalevala

Kalevala Experience Park in Kuhmo is the first holiday resort focusing on the bounty of pure nature and culture in the spirit of the national epic. Put your character to test in the workshop of smith Ilmarinen or try out your survival skills in the wilderness. Finish the day with visit to a smoke sauna and enjoy the Kalevala flavored supper before accommodating yourself in log cabins on the shores of Lake Lammasjärvi.

For more information visit www.kalevalaspirit.com

Wear Kalevala jewelry

Possibly the best-known Kalevala brand today is Kalevala Jewelry, which creates classic and contemporary Finnish designs. All Kalevala pieces carry historic themes and many of the models are replicas of ancient Iron Age jewelry discovered by archaeologists. A cornerstone of the 2009 spring collection is "Gravity", a collection that combines ancient engravings with modern shapes.

For more information visit www.kalevalakoru.fi

For more information, see

Visit Finland www.visitfinland.com/au