Nicola Billens, Author at Alquemie

Silky Oaks Lodge – Luxury Lodges of Australia

Posted on August 30, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Silky Oaks Lodge and Healing Waters Spa adjoining the World Heritage listed Daintree National Park is a picture of tranquility. Located on the Mossman River it’s the perfect based to explore this tropical rainforest wonderland. The lodge offers activities such as canoeing, river snorkelling, guided walks, wildlife spotting and yoga classes or simply swimming in the crystal clear mountain waters of Mossman River. It’s the perfect haven for guests keen to re-energise their soul. We speak to Samantha Lusk, Sales & Marketing for Silky Oaks Lodge.

Describe Silky Oaks Lodge in 3 words.

Relax, Rejuvenate, Explore.

Tell us a little bit about Silky Oaks Lodge and what makes it so unique beyond great food, great wine and a very comfortable place to sleep?

Silky Oaks Lodge offers a luxury experience from which to explore Tropical North Queensland, situated only 20minutes north of Port Douglas. It boarders the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest National Park and is spectacularly perched above the Mossman River. Surrounded by the lush rainforest, this luxury eco lodge is the ideal location to appreciate the natural tropical environment.

How is Silky Oaks Lodge pushing the boundaries in guest experiences?

We understand that all guest’s needs and requirements are different, so prior to the guest arrival, we try and obtain as much information as possible about them so we can tailor individual and personalised touches for all guests. These special touches may be in the form of the location of the room ie. if a guest has a walking difficulty, we will try and allocate a Treehouse as close to the Main Lodge as possible, even if this means we need to upgrade them. We strive to exceed guest expectations at all times and this may be achieved by special touches in the guest rooms such as fresh flowers on arrival, local teas in the room upon turndown, mood music playing upon arrival and during turndown, acknowledging all guests by their names.

Relaxing in the tropical surrounds of Silky Oaks Lodge

What’s a recent (last six months) innovation at Silky Oaks Lodge ?

Due to high demand we have just finished building another Lodge Suite. This room type is in high demand by families as they are the only room which can accommodate four guests. These rooms which are 88sqm offer a spacious open plan layout with extra large balcony with its own outside king size four poster day bed.

What activity should guests not miss during their stay at Silky Oaks Lodge ?

Take a picnic hamper and guide book and hike the Fig Tree Rapids trail and immerse yourself in the crystal clear mountain water along the way.

Clear waters of the Mossman Gorge at Silky Oaks Lodge

Best dining experience at Silky Oaks Lodge?

Our Treehouse Restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience. This unique open-sided restaurant where the walls and windows have been replaced by the Mossman River and surrounding rainforest, offers the freshest of local produce. Open for Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Treetop accommodation at Silky Oaks Lodge in the Daintree — Treetop accommodation at Silky Oaks Lodge

Please describe a typical guest at Silky Oaks Lodge.

Retired couples whose children are now at university etc., and who now have the time to relax and enjoy the peaceful surrounds after a very fast paced career. They value the tranquil surrounds of Silky Oaks, however also want to get out and explore the region and what it has to offer, such as a cruise to the Great Barrier Reef or a day trip to Cape Tribulation.

What’s a great experience for teens at Silky Oaks Lodge?

For teenagers, they can have a great time exploring the beautiful Mossman River with a mask and snorkel available from our Reception. They may spot some Jungle Perch, turtles and if they are really lucky the elusive Platypus! We do not accommodate children under the age of 8 years.

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Luxury Australian itinerary – A Trip For Twitchers

Posted on August 29, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

A Trip For Twitchers

12 nights, plus a night or two at your arrival or departure destination if desired

Australia’s environment is one of the most diverse on earth and its landscape is one of the oldest. Its flora and fauna have evolved in isolation for 45 million years, untouched by the upheavals of the world’s continental plates.

Twitchers are spoilt for choice with over 800 species of birds – many of these endemic to Australia – enabling the country to stake a strong claim to be the world’s greatest hotspot of bird endemism. Many of the species are easy to observe due to their charismatic and colourful physiques and beautiful song.

This itinerary is just an indicator of what’s on offer in Australia. At Alquemie we tailor make every vacation based on the whims of our guests. Please contact us to find out about the magical holiday we could craft for you.

ARKABA FLINDERS RANGES, SOUTH AUSTRALIA (3 NIGHTS)

A private wildlife conservancy, Arkaba’s true luxury lies in the fact that its 60,000 acres are shared by just 10 guests, taking the definition of exclusivity to a new level in Australia. Located in the ancient and awe-inspiring grand scale landscape of the Flinders Ranges, Arkaba provides the opportunity for guests to immerse themselves in the story of the bush – its ancient geology, diverse bird and wildlife and the chance to understand the conservation challenges that Australia faces.

A selection of must do’s

Over the last 3 years Arkaba has confirmed sightings of 10 new bird species including the Stubble Quail (Coturnix pectoralis), Spotted Nightjars (Eurostopodus argus) and the Horsfields Bronze Cuckoo (Chalcites (chrysococcyx) basilis).
Spending time with a one of Arkaba’s expert guides bushwalking along the dry bed of the Arkaba Creek is a great way to soak up the sounds and smells of the bush and expand your knowledge on Australian fauna and flora whilst enjoying the abundance of birdsong.
Arkaba appreciates birds can be environmental indicators and studies them to help understand how the natural environment is faring. For those keen to learn more of the challenges Australia faces in saving its diversity of birdlife, join one of Arkaba’s field guides one evening to track a radio collared feral cat or set up the trip cameras that monitor key sites across the property.

Magpie Geese on the floodplains of Bamurru Plains

BAMURRU PLAINS TOP END, NORTHERN TERRITORY (3 NIGHTS)

Bamurru Plains is an extraordinary wild bush luxury experience on the edge of the Mary River floodplain, adjacent to Kakadu National Park in Australia’s Northern Territory. The coastal floodplains of northern Australia are home to prolific bird (236 species) and wildlife (Australia’s answer to the Okavango Delta) whilst Kakadu and Arnhem Land are the heartland of the country’s indigenous culture.
*Bamurru Plains is open from 1 May to 31 October.

A selection of must do’s

The Mary River floodplain is home to an extraordinary gathering of Magpie Geese and during the period after the young have hatched (April/May), the floodplain will host hundreds of thousands of these birds. The hatching period also draws a huge number of raptors (kites, goshawks and sea-eagles) to feed on the young goslings.
A cruise on the Sampan Creek offers the chance of sighting a Great-billed Heron. Other rare species at Bamurru Plains include the Grey Goshawk and the Red Goshaw.
Waking at dawn to hear the cacophony of sound from the Magpie Geese, Whistling Kites, Blue-winged Kookaburras is nature’s own alarm clock and the perfect start to a day’s safari.

EL QUESTRO HOMESTEAD, THE KIMBERLEY, WESTERN AUSTRALIA (3 NIGHTS)

In the middle of almost 1 million acres of Wilderness Park and 100km from the nearest town, the luxury of the El Questro Homestead sits in stark contrast to Western Australia’s rugged Kimberley landscape. Perched on a cliff top, with vistas of one of the most strikingly beautiful locations, the Homestead is a relaxed and exclusive retreat catering for a maximum of 18 guests.

A selection of must do’s

The variety of ecosystems in the park attract 100 different bird species including, Rainbow Bee Eaters, Pheasant Coucols, dancing Brolgas and even the once near extinct Gouldian Finch.
Spend an afternoon at the Zebedee Thermal Springs – A magical place to relax and rejuvenate after a busy morning birding and climbing through the gorges.
The Little Pied Cormorant is the smallest Australian cormorant and is fairly common on El Questro waterways. It can be seen sitting on exposed rocks along the route of the Wandjina boat in the Chamberlain Gorge. Their nest is a small, shallow structure of sticks and it breeds throughout most of the year.

crystalbrook-lodge_outback-queensland_sea-eagle — A sea-eagle at Crystalbrook lodge

CRYSTALBROOK LODGE NORTHERN OUTBACK, QUEENSLAND (3 NIGHTS)

Remote…wild…elegant. Hidden in the rugged outback of North Queensland, Crystalbrook Lodge is a secret outback mecca catering to only 10 guests is an oasis of luxury perched over the spectacular Crystalbrook Lake and is part of the historic 85,000 acre Crystalbrook Station. Home to a staggering array of wildlife including birds, freshwater crocodiles, and fish guests can spend their days on the lake or riverside, exploring the bush wilderness or just enjoying the serenity and stillness of the outback from the lodge.

A selection of must do’s

The birdlife here is spectacular with nesting sea eagles regularly seen near the lodge. Enjoy the freedom of solitude and observe Bee Eaters, Koel Jabiru, Blue Faced Honeyeaters, Scarlet Honeys from the purpose built bird watching viewing platform.
Glide along the lake aboard a kayak or in the lodge’s virtually silent electric boat and become part of the lake’s daily rhythm as dainty Lotus Birds walk by on Lily pads and Jabiru and other water birds go about their business.
In the evening enjoy the Theatre Room where the day’s birding photos may be viewed and shared over a glass of wine or engross yourself in the bird and wildlife reference library.

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True North Kimberley Cruises – Luxury Lodges of Australia

Posted on August 26, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

A cruise along the Kimberley coast aboard the luxury adventure small-ship TRUE NORTH is on the bucket list for many. Scenes of thundering waterfalls and spectacular gorges greet guests daily. Highlights include Horizontal falls, Mitchell falls, the unique eco-system of Montgomery Reef, Aboriginal rock art and catching huge barramundi.

We speak to Peter Trembath, General Manager, who has been responsible for brand and product at North Star Cruises (owners of TRUE NORTH) since 2001.

Describe TRUE NORTH in 3 words.

Revered adventure-cruise ship

Tell us a little bit about TRUE NORTH and what makes it so unique beyond great food, great wine and a very comfortable place to sleep?

An adventure on the TRUE NORTH is one of Australia’s most desired holidays. Bigger ships cannot go where we go! Extended periods at sea are specifically excluded and daily activities can include scenic walks, fishing, snorkelling, diving, scenic flights in the ship’s helicopter and cultural events. We deploy comfortable expedition boats (not rubber boats) and discover wilderness in small groups. An Australian crew uniquely chaperones every experience.

Fishing for barramundi on the True North — Fishing for barramundi

How is the TRUE NORTH pushing the boundaries in guest experiences?

By providing unparalleled access to some of the world’s most pristine wilderness and, by providing activity-laden itineraries that provide our guests with maximum opportunity to truly experience the destination.

The True North is a base for adventure — The luxury small-ship is a base for adventure

What’s a recent (last 6 months) innovation from North Star Cruises?

The introduction of new itineraries in the Kimberley and the scheduling of a Discovery Cruise in the South Pacific.

What activity should guests not miss during their stay on the TRUE NORTH ?

Flying in the ship’s helicopter.

Raft point sunrise by helicopter on True North — Raft point sunrise by helicopter from the True North

Best dining experience on the TRUE NORTH ?

Catch of the day likely caught with your own hands.

Please describe a typical guest onboard.

Anyone who considers ‘the experience’ to be the true luxury.

Is the TRUE NORTH child friendly? If so what’s a great experience for kids under 10? And for teens?

Where behaviour is guaranteed not to disrupt the enjoyment of fellow guests. The high-speed drift-snorkelling at the stunning Rowley Shoals is great fun.

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Beware of imitations and discover for yourself why our guests consistently remark “that’s the best holiday I have ever had!”

Peter Trembath, General Manager TRUE NORTH — Peter Trembath, General Manager, North Star Cruises with his catch of the day

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Australia’s Best Guides – Ray Andrews | Naturalist & Birder

Posted on August 25, 2016November 21, 2016 by Nicola Billens

Ray Andrews

Ray Andrews has a CV to beat most when it comes to knowledge of nature. His bespoke tours are a fascinating way to learn almost anything about Australia and our unique wilderness.

Please tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do?

I call myself a naturalist but I have so many more interests. My degree is in Tropical Plant sciences. I am a big birder, and have worked with frogs, mammals, insects, planted 10,000’s of trees, done aboriginal rock art tours for years, operated biking, canoeing, sea kayaking, hiking and camping tours. I ran a wine tour company and was featured on many docos and travel productions. I currently run a tour company specialising in adventures into Papua New Guinea and do bespoke tours in Australia.

My favourite place to visit is the Cape York peninsula and the far flung Islands of Melanesia. I am just as happy sitting down half naked in a village hut in Papua New Guinea gorging on wild pig with my bare hands as to being a wine snob sipping on gorgeous chardonnays (if you don’t like chardy you haven’t tried enough of it) at top notch restaurants. My wife would prefer me to be the later.

I love history and especially the contact periods when Europeans first meet indigenous cultures and have a special interest in the Wallace line in Indonesia where the flora and fauna of Australia (Sahul) meets the Asiatic (Sunda) fauna and flora.

I live in beautiful Eumundi on the Sunshine coast with an amazing wife and two great kids. My latest project is setting up a film shoot for National Geographic in the Highlands of Papua New Guinea where I am taking my son along with me.

What’s your favourite Australian animal and why?

Love platypus and spend way too much time stalking them in the river on my property.

What haven’t you seen / done in Australia that you’d like to and why?

I haven’t been to the Coral Bay or Hamelin pool of WA. Best secret spot in Australia is the Quinkan Rock Art bodies on Cape York peninsula, but if you haven’t experienced the Trobriand Islands in PNG you are missing out of everything.

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Australia’s Best Guides – Brett Graham | Aboriginal culture & Central Australia

Posted on August 25, 2016November 22, 2022 by Nicola Billens

Brett Graham

Based at Ayres Rock (Uluru), Brett Graham is one of Australia’s best outback guides. His deep knowledge and passion for Aboriginal culture brings it to life for his guests in only a way that few people can.

Please tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do?

My name Is Brett Graham, Director and part owner of SEIT Outback Australia. I love the bush especially the outback and have spent a lot of time with the Aboriginal people of the central desert regions around Uluru.

I spent a lot of time travelling and camping around Australia by 4WD since I could drive, always going somewhere – the more remote the better! I grew up in Melbourne but was always in the bush on weekends exploring a new area. As owner and tour guide I spend a lot of time with our staff ensuring that their cultural knowledge and general touring knowledge and practices are the best they can be. I love to get out bush and just spend time with the Aboriginal people as they have so much to teach us all.

What got you started with your passion for Central Australia and what do you find most interesting about it?

I have alway had an interest in all things outback and then the opportunity presented some 12 years ago. I have been learning ever since. I love the challenges that the outback and remote Australia throws at you, the logistics are never ending but rewarding when it all comes together.

How do you bring Central Australia to life on your tours?

I think people sense that I have a lot of experience in the outback and who I am is part of the tour. People come for a cultural / outback experience and because I live and breath the outback it naturally becomes the flavour of my touring experiences.

Why do you think it’s important that people learn about Central Australia?

Understanding comes from experiences with people who spend time on the land and with the people, and hence are able to pass on knowledge to guests.

People come to Uluru and surrounds to get connected. This takes time and knowledge, and this is an area that we have built connections in.

If people wanted to find out more about Central Australia are there any particular books, documentaries or websites you would recommend?

There are many books and films that tell stories and depict Central Australian culture and most are a great source of information about all aspect of outback life. I think it really depends on your focus on the outback as to where you start .

What’s your favourite Australian animal and why?

Thorny devil – prehistoric! A true survivor of the outback, a fascinating reptile.

What place is Australia’s best-kept secret?

Mt Woodroffe South Australia – spectacular scenery.

What haven’t you seen / done in Australia that you’d like to and why?

Kimberly region and Cape York. On the must-do list – just need the time to do it properly. Extreme regions of Australia is where I like to be.

Finally, how can people follow you on social media?

Facebook

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The Scenic Rim Trail – one of the Great Walks of Australia

Posted on August 23, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

The Scenic Rim Trail, one of the Great Walks of Australia, is a 4-day, 3-night walk through South East Queensland’s stunning Main Range National Park. As its name suggests the walk traverses 1,000-metre high mountain rims with picturesque 360 degree views, as well as rainforest and wet eucalyptus forests. Distinct scenery, wildlife and vegetation, divine food and wine along the way, and the sense of exclusivity in 30,000 hectares of parkland make this one of the most unique walks in Australia.

We talk to Kylie Stever, Group Sales Director Spicers Retreats about what she thinks makes this walk so special.

Describe the Scenic Rim Trail experience in 3 words.

Luxurious active escape.

Tell us a little bit about the Scenic Rim Trail and what makes it so unique beyond great food, wine and a very comfortable place to sleep?

Usually when people think of beautiful scenic landscapes, often they will think Tasmania or Western Australia, but unbeknown to many there is a little pocket in South East Queensland that boasts some of the most spectacular mountain ranges, escarpments and forests in the country. We have designed our walk to give guests an exclusive look into Queensland High Country and the Scenic Rim region, with most of our trail traversing through our own private land, previously only touched by early pioneers.

The summit on day 2 of the Scenic Rim Trail — The summit on Day 2 of the Scenic Rim Trail

How is the Scenic Rim Trail pushing the boundaries in guest experiences?

We believe that you shouldn’t have to go without some little touches of luxury that you normally would have to sacrifice when on an active holiday, we want our guests to feel relaxed, indulged and comfortable. From the accommodation to the hike itself, we will go above and beyond for our guests to make sure this experience is a truly unforgettable one.

What’s a recent innovation at the Scenic Rim Trail?

We feel extremely fortunate to be able to share this beautiful region with our guests, and believe there are many more unexplored places to show them. Given that our international guests are limited for time, we have developed a shorter program; the Scenic Rim Trail Express experience consisting of 2 night/2 days. This experience will be on offer as of March 2017 and will showcase the highlights of this region.

What activity should guests not miss during their experience?

The hot tub of course! After a long day of hiking, there is nothing better than to sit in the hot water in our new cattle trough inspired hot tub, overlooking the twin peaks of Mount Mitchell with a glass of champagne. So make sure you bring your bathers!

Please describe a typical guest.

The great thing about the Scenic Rim Trail is that we don’t have a typical guest! We have many different people all varying in age coming on this trip! We believe that if you have a good level of fitness and a sense of adventure you will enjoy this experience!

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Australia’s Best Guides – Jason Miller | Australian wine & food

Posted on August 23, 2016November 21, 2016 by Nicola Billens

Jason Miller

Jason Miller is one of the lucky ones – he gets to taste wine for a living and share his love of it with people on his tours. We talk to him about his passion for his craft as one of Australia’s best wine and food guides.

Please tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do?

I’m Jason Miller and I get paid to drink wine. Or more specifically to taste wine and to talk about it. I run a food and wine tour company called Rich & Lingering, which covers South Australia. Being based in Adelaide we are surrounded by wine regions, so one of the great joys I have is to be able to show visitors our regions, and also our wine and our food.

In my spare time I also write about Australian wine on a wine blog called Que Syrah, provide wine reviews and have also worked as a wine judge.

What made you passionate about wine and what do you find most interesting about it?

Having always been a foodie, wine is just part of that broader experience. Good wine is essential to good food. In fact I’m sure that wine is one of the four main food groups; along with chocolate, cheese and something else.

What I love most about it, is no matter how much you know, how far you have travelled, there is always something more to learn. It’s a never ending voyage of discovery. There always seems to be new varieties, new regions, and new vintages.

How do you bring wine to life on your tours?

I’m lucky enough to have various wine qualifications, and to have tasted many great wines. But when you travel there is always that ‘ah ha!’ moment when you visit a location and the product make sense given that context.

I love being able to help my guests interpret that context, to discover the intricacies and the influences of wine and food. This comes from the location, the people and their history. Wine at its most basic is fermented grapes. But what make it even more interesting is to understand the history and the culture of the people who made it. How they were influenced by their location, their climate, and their way of life.

Why do you think it’s important that people learn about wine?

Unfortunately with wine there is often an aura of mystery that surrounds it. As people learn about anything (including wine) they are less hesitant. I’m all for making a product more approachable, and more understandable.

If people wanted to find out more about the North of Australia are there any particular books, documentaries or websites you would recommend?

There are many books and movies for a broad audience, from the complete novice through to official ‘cork dorks’ like myself. There’s also plenty of wine blogs, like Que Syrah. But really the best piece of wine advice I was ever given was to ‘taste promiscuously’. Not necessary drink a lot, just tasting a broad range of things. Wines you have never heard of before, regions you can’t pronounce, countries you have never visited. This ultimately helps to develop your palate.

What’s your favourite Australian animal and why?

The echidna; I know very little about them but have been lucky enough to come across them in the wild occasionally. The whole idea of a mammal, which lays eggs, and has quills is pretty amazing and something you would only find in Australia.

What place is Australia’s best-kept secret?

Flinders Ranges (especially Arkaba Homestead). An amazing location to enjoy the landscape, the climate, the wildlife, the stars and the vastness of Australia.

What haven’t you seen / done in Australia that you’d like to and why?

There is so much on my ever growing list. I would love to visit the far north of Australia – in both the wet and dry seasons. I would love to swim with the whale sharks at Ningaloo. At the other end of the country I can’t wait to explore the breadth of Tasmania. The wine and the produce of Tasmania are sensational. But I would love to understand it more – their influences, their climate and the location.

Is there anything else you’d like to add that hasn’t been covered by the questions already posed?

There’s an important difference between tasting and drinking.

Finally, how can people follow you on social media?

Rich & Lingering
Twitter: @RichLingering
Facebook: @RichAndLingering
Que Syrah
Twitter: @Que_Syrah_
Instagram: Que_Syrah

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Australia’s Best Guides – Rusty Miller | Champion surfer

Posted on August 10, 2016November 21, 2016 by Nicola Billens

Rusty Miller

Rusty Miller is a former USA Surfing Champion and Hawaiian big wave rider. Today, he is one of our favourite Australian guides, showing guests the joys of surfing at Byron Bay.

Please tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do?

I am a native Californian who came to Byron Bay in 1970 and have lived and surfed here ever since with a few stints away in other places. My surf sessions are combined with my publishing/writing. In 1973 I started the first alternative newspaper in Byron Shire and and in 1984 began publishing the annual Rusty’s Byron Guide. Because I appreciate where I live I have advocated for the social, physical and cutlural environment in Byron since arriving.

What got you started with surfing and what do you find most interesting about it?

I started surfing when I was ten years old in Southern California. I grew up next to the ocean where I didn’t have to lift my head off my pillow to see the surf. In those days there was no career in it. I surf (and still do) for the love of it. In the 1960s I began to compete and in 1965 was the United States surfing champion. I began teaching surfing informally in the ‘70s in Byron Bay and have taught here ever since. I don’t like the word “school” and “teaching” as they imply something that surfing isn’t about. I say that I offer surf sessions to people. I only teach personalised surfing, not big groups of people who don’t know each other. To me surfing is an art form, not a sport. We dance on the waves. This is what I try to explain to people.

How do you bring surfing to life on your tours?

As I have lived and surfed in Byron Bay/shire since 1970 I bring a 46 year history of the place to my surf sessions and Byron town/hinterland tour. I’ve been here through it’s major changes of being a working-class, primary industry community to a one based on tourism, with surfing being a big part of that. I approach my surfing sessions/cultural tuning on a most personal level relative to how I read what my clients might be inclined towards. First of all for the surfing I endeavour to find out what kind of relationship they have previously had with the ocean, if any, and what their physical activity experiences have been. Relative to our community we often talk of history, politics and travel. My Rusty’s Byron Guide byline is People, Politics and Culture. I say that you get more than a surf session with me. The first thing we do is I take you up to the Byron Bay lighthouse and explain the geography and culture of the place. This gives you the context of where you are.

Why do you think it’s important that people learn about surfing?

Surfing is such a joy. It is infinite and allows you to be completely in the moment. I endeavour to demonstrate that the standard perceptions we obtain from media, advertising and promotional material about surfing do not always represent it’s actual essence. Surfing waves can appear to be relatively simple with the appropriate equipment when conducted in the right place at the right time. However, there is a lifetime of learning the ocean and its ways. And, of course, I want people to understand Byron and its unique place in Australia.

If people wanted to find out more about surfing are there any particular books, documentaries or websites you would recommend?

In Australia there are dozens of books about people who surf and some good ‘how to’ books. Along with my wife, Tricia, we have published two books of my surfing life through my photographs taken between 1968-1973 both here in Byron Bay/Bells Beach and in Hawaii, where I lived for three years from 1967-1970. Our website has a little video filmed by local filmmakers showing how I explain the art of surfing. These same filmakers have made a documentary called Byron, The Meeting Place, which is available as a full length film or a shortened version on-line. It is well worth a look before you get here.

What’s your favourite Australian animal and why?

Dolphins because they are the best wave riders in the world.

What place is Australia’s best-kept secret?

A secret is a secret.

What haven’t you seen / done in Australia that you’d like to and why?

Discover a beach with a good wave I have never surfed before.

Is there anything else you’d like to add that hasn’t been covered by the questions already posed?

The two best learning beaches in the world, The Pass and Wategos Beach, are in the Cape Byron National Park. rustymillersurf has exclusive rights to teach at the main section of these two beaches. On any given day you’ll be surfing with dolphins in clean, blue water. Mornings and sunsets are the best time to be out there as Cape Byron is the most easterly point of the Australian mainland. Uniquely in Australia, The Pass Beach faces west so that not only do we enjoy the sunrises but sunsets as well, about the only place in Australia that this happens.

Finally, how can people follow you on social media?

Instagram: RustyMillerSurf
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rusty.miller.surf/

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Australia’s Best Guides – Craig Wickham | Kangaroo Island naturalist

Posted on August 4, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Craig Wickham

Craig Wickham is one of Australia’s leading experts on the fauna and flora of Kangaroo Island and he has been sharing Kangaroo Island’s secrets with guests for since 1990.

Please tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do?

I grew up on Kangaroo Island and always had a keen interest in nature and wildlife. I spent a year living and travelling in Africa and studied wildlife and conservation management at University before working as a wildlife ranger with the South Australian National Parks and Wildlife Service. My family has a long history with hospitality and accommodation so the opportunity to work for myself with a professional guiding and tour service provided the chance to blend nature and hospitality.

What got you started with wildlife observation and what do you find most interesting about it?

Growing up with a strong sense of curiosity meant I was constantly observing and learning about the wildlife which surrounded me. Living on a spectacular coastal farm meant there was a constant stream of visitors and I was always keen to show people around and share what I knew. Once I started studying more formally it was clear how little we know about the natural world and guiding provides a chance for continuous learning. One specific element to wildlife observation which intrigues me is wildlife behaviour and habituation – how we are able to amend our behaviour and develop a level of trust in the animals we go to observe. The ability to blend into the background and watch animals doing what they would ordinarily do – not fearfully watching us ready to flee but grooming, joey kangaroos jumping in and out of their mothers’ pouch, or interacting with each other.

How do you bring wildlife observation to life on your tours?

A really positive message to share with our guests is the method by which we develop that habituation – not by providing artificial food sources but by carefully and quietly moving through the landscape and when we see the animals we stop and observe them, and then slowly move closer. Once they start to react we take a step back and sit down. We do not have to be totally silent – the animals will tolerate us speaking at a low volume. Over time this approach distance reduces and the animals start to ignore us – proceeding to feed, lay down to rest and even turn their backs to us, a clear indication that we are no threat to them.

Why do you think it’s important that people learn about wildlife observation?

I think this is a technique which is clearly transferrable and people can take this home and try it with their local wildlife species. It also gives an alternative to feeding which whilst in the short term would meet the objective of animals being habituated, it also rapidly leads to dependance, higher than usual densities which has environmental consequences, and often leads to conflict as animals become more demanding.

If people wanted to find out more about wildlife observation are there any particular books, documentaries or websites you would recommend?

I am unaware of specific books or documentaries relating to wildlife observation through benign habituation but there is plenty of commentary in research articles such as this one which outlines quite a few of the elements of the topic. A couple of favourite wildlife documentaries are: Faces in the mob – summarised in this short clip ; and The Ocean’s Supermum

What’s your favourite Australian animal and why?

The short-beaked echidna – they are incredibly adaptable and flexible – being the most widely distributed native animal in Australia both in terms pf habitat type and climatic range. They are similarly diverse in their behaviour – one echidna will immediately “go to ground” digging into the earth and remaining absolutely still and I have been “out-waited” by echidnas for over 40 minutes! Another will appear very bold – trying to nudge people’s feet out of the way, tipping over camera bags left on the ground and appear to have no fear of people at all. I find it interesting that is a popular culture sense outside of Australia the platypus is very well know as “the egg-laying mammal” yet echidnas are virtually unknown despite being a far more widespread animal.

What place is Australia’s best-kept secret?

A favourite place of mine is Cape Gantheaume on Kangaroo Island’s south coast. Incredibly remote – half a day of walking to get there and I have fixed in my mind a day which held so many elements. White-bellied sea-eagles and ospreys wheeling overhead, Australian sea-lions on the whitest sand beach, thousands of long-nosed fur-seals out on the rocky point to the east and at the base of cliffs lay several long wooden beams – the fractured remains of the masts from the SS You Yangs which wrecked off the coast on Pelorus Islet on 14 June 1890. To me this spot epitomises the diversity of Australia, our wildlife and rugged coast and the powerful natural forces which continue to define our land and our history.

What haven’t you seen / done in Australia that you’d like to and why?

Whew – that is a long list! I am yet to dive with whale sharks at Ningaloo Reef, I would love to explore the extraordinary fossil beds at Riversleigh, I have not visited the Kimberleys and then there are thousands of places I have been once and would love to go back to!

Finally, how can people follow you on social media?

Twitter: @craigwick
Instagram: craig.wickham
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/exceptional.kangarooisland
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/user/craigeki
Google+ +CraigWickham
Pinterest craigonki

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Australia’s Best Guides – Brendon Bevan | Naturalist & conservationist

Posted on July 29, 2016July 31, 2017 by Nicola Billens

Brendon Bevan

We talked to Brendon Bevan from Arkaba, one of Australia’s most experienced guides and a passionate conservationist.

Please tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do?

My name is Brendon Bevan and I manage Arkaba Conservancy (A Luxury Lodge of Australia), The Arkaba Walk (A Great Walk of Australia) and the property’s conservation model.

What got you started with conservation and what do you find most interesting about it?

I guess since my younger years when my parents purchased a series of cattle farms in Africa and we set about de-stocking and restoring the land. Conservation is a pretty broad subject, but when you get to actually witness change and habitat improvement as a result of your efforts, it is truly the most rewarding thing on earth.

How do you bring conservation to life on your tours?

I like to get folks out of vehicles and into the thick of it! See it, feel it, smell it, taste it! Don’t make them spectate – let them participate.

Why do you think it’s important that people learn about conservation?

It’s everywhere! It is right under our noses and we get so caught up in “The real world” we take it for granted. We all have a roll to play in conservation.

If people wanted to find out more about conservation are there any particular books, documentaries or websites you would recommend?

To the contrary, I would say put down your book, switch off your television and disconnect your Wi-fi! Go outside and explore. Question the world!

What’s your favourite Australian animal and why?

Got to be a Wedge-Tailed-Eagle! Just look at it!!!

What place is Australia’s best-kept secret?

Has to be Arkaba!

What haven’t you seen / done in Australia that you’d like to and why?

So, so many things! Spending time in Arnhem Land would have to be right up there…

Is there anything else you’d like to add that hasn’t been covered by the questions already posed?

I guess the only thing I’d add is that there’s more to conservation than being a “Greenie”! There’s a real harsh coal face of conservation involving feral animal control and population dynamics. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but it is an absolute necessity.

Finally, how can people follow you on social media?

I guess they can’t really! I’m on Facebook I suppose, but really need to get better at that sort of thing.

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