Sab Lord is a larger than life character, and has been hosting guests in the Top End for 16 years. Sab grew up in the area that is now Kakadu and Arnhem Land and has a rather unique relationship with many local Aboriginal people. We interviewed Sab Lord to find out a little more about him…
Please explain a little bit about who you are and what you do?
I am a tour guide in the Northern Territory of Australia, I was born on a crocodile/buffalo station called Munmalary near the South Alligator River, I have been guiding for 25 years after working as a Jackaroo and bull catcher, managing stations in The Kimberley. I also played the best game in the world – rugby union. I grew up surrounded by Aboriginal people and their children were my playmates in an environment where you had to make decisions for yourself – unlike today.
What got you started with your passion and what do you find most interesting about it?
I loved learning about our environment and explaining the difference to visitors about Aboriginal People and how they live.
How do you bring Australia to life on your tours?
I speak my mind – I am not politically correct but with age comes wisdom so I enjoy discussing the environment and how humans impact it.
Why do you think it’s important that people learn about the Australian environment?
Because its where we live! People now have lost the understanding of living in the bush, now that so many people live and work in cities they have become very out of touch with nature.
If people wanted to find out more about the Australian environment are there any particular books, documentaries or websites you would recommend?
I love environmental warriors! I support The Sea Shepherd and Wildlife At Risk. I often recommend a book called The Future Eaters by Tim Flannery. Also Carl Warburton’s book Buffalos – Adventures in Arnhemland and The Green Eyes Are The Buffalos by Alan Stewart.
What’s your favourite Australian animal and why?
Wallabies, because of their freedom of movement at a quick pace.
What place is Australia’s best-kept secret?
Arnhem Land
What haven’t you seen / done in Australia that you’d like to and why?
Tasmania, to see the wildlife.
Finally, how can people follow you on social media?
Pretty Beach House, an exquisite Luxury Lodge of Australia only 90 minutes from Sydney has room for only eight lucky guests. The all-inclusive guesthouse is situated within the Bouddi National Park and surrounded by several golden beaches. Deborah Ramsay tells us more.
Describe Pretty Beach House in 3 words.
Relaxed, effortless luxury.
Tell us a little bit about Pretty Beach House and what makes it so unique beyond great food, great wine and a very comfortable place to sleep?
Our guesthouse is surrounded by natural beauty including several glorious golden beaches & picturesque bays, all easily accessible for hiking expeditions along walking trails & over coastal sandstone cliffs. Indigenous rock art by the local Darkinjung tribe features at the doorstep of the guesthouse, dating back an incredible 10,000 years.
A ‘welcome to country’ indigenous smoking ceremony, is performed for every new guest, usually on arrival night. It’s a very special experience for our guests who absolutely love the interaction and engagement of a true aboriginal elder from our community.
How is Pretty Beach House pushing the boundaries in guest experiences?
By providing a complimentary indigenous Welcome to Country smoking ceremony for all guests. This experience is deeply spiritual and very engaging. Our property’s offering is also an all-inclusive package. All meals and even most beverages are paid for in the one tariff making the experience effortless for our wonderful guests.
A Welcome to Country ceremony
What activity should guests not miss during their stay?
Of course, the Welcome to Country Smoking Ceremony, but the bushwalks are rather spectacular too. We have mountain bikes for guests to take whenever they feel like it, and paddle boards and kayaks can be hired from just down at the local bay. A ferry trip across to the famous Sydney beach of Palm Beach, is also a beautiful day out.
What is the best dining experience at Pretty Beach House ?
All All dining is curated by Stefano Manfredi – master of modern Italian cuisine. Italian born Manfredi is one of Australia’s most celebrated and influential chefs. Guests are often lucky enough to chat with Manfredi over the pass, and learn new culinary skills from the master himself.
All dining is curated by Stefano Manfredi
Please describe a typical guest at Pretty Beach House.
Well, our guests are special. They are looking for total relaxation, privacy and relaxed luxury at its finest. They might be hopeless romantics with a proposal in mind. They may be honeymooners, babymooners or discerning globe trotters. They might be baby boomers who spend their well deserved time at the finest hotels across the globe. Each and every one of our guests are unique and we love to create very special experiences for them depending on their needs.
For more insight, read a review of our stay at Pretty Beach House here. It is also the perfect place for groups of friends.
Award-winning Lake House in Daylesford just 90 minutes from Melbourne is as famous for its fine dining as it is for its boutique accommodation. Set within picturesque spa country, this family-run Luxury Lodge of Australia is a foodie’s delight and offers one of the best cellars in the country. Larissa Wolf-Tasker fills us in about this magical property.
Describe Lake House in 3 words.
Gourmet | Country-chic | Service
Tell us a little bit about Lake House and what makes it so unique beyond great food, great wine and a very comfortable place to sleep?
Lake House is family owned and operated. It began as a restaurant in 1984 when Alla & Allan, husband and wife (artist and chef) opened the doors of their Lake House which had taken four years of building, plotting and planting. More than 30 years later Lake House is still owned and operated by the family including myself, my partner and 120 industry professionals.
The property is situated on six acres of country gardens; much of it planted by the previous generation, on the edge of lake Daylesford. It’s a rambling seasonal garden with old established fruit trees, fragrant old fashioned roses, lilac, magnolia and Daphne.
Lake House is near to the village of Daylesford which is filled with quirky shops, bars, cafes and galleries. A short stroll or bike ride will get you into the heart of the village within ten minutes but guests more often than not will spend hours exploring the main street and laneways on route.
This region is a land of extinct volcanos and boasts the largest concentration of naturally occurring mineral water springs in Australia. There is now an enormous spa industry built around the health giving properties of this mineral water and you can see the evidence on the springs on site where the waters flow above ground in creeks, water features and shallow pools. A local water diviner came on site to discover the underground springs and we now have water available for people to drink on site as well as bath in. The volcanic activity millions of years ago also ensured productive volcanic soil resulting in a diverse organic and biodynamic farming industry. As a result our restaurant has a consistent supply of extraordinary produce. It’s a pretty special place.
Accommodation at Lake House, Daylesford
How is Lake House pushing the boundaries in guest experiences?
Our purpose built Cooking School gives guests an opportunity to get their hands dirty in either an intimate class of ten or amongst a masterclass with some of Australia’s leading chefs. The full calendar for the year ahead is always released in December and spaces fill quickly.
What’s a recent (last six months) innovation at Lake House?
We are always moving forward and now in our fourth decade the Lake House continues to grow and evolve with refurbished accommodation, brand new facilities and plenty of wistful country inspiration. The Lake House Team have never been known to rest on our laurels; now launching the newly refurbished Waterfront Suites. This update comes hot on the heels of the new Waterfront Pavilion – a private dining room for up to 40 guests on the lagoon shore, The Lagoon Deck – a place to enjoy afternoon aperitivo high in the poplars overlooking lake Daylesford, and the refurbished Lodge Studios and Suites in the original homestead.
The cooking school at Lake House, Daylesford
What activity should guests not miss during their stay at Lake House?
A Signature Salus Bliss – it’s a combination of soft body polish, rhythmic massage and hot volcanic stones
Best dining experience at Lake House ?
Our restaurant is a destination in itself. Dining in the restaurant is the signature experience of a stay at Lake House and our tasting menu that changes with the seasons is a definite must-do. The Lake House Restaurant is listed as one of Australia’s best and this year alone has been included in every major national industry and media award.
Please describe a typical guest at Lake House.
There are no typical guests. We practise a very bespoke style of hospitality. Every day and every guest is a new opportunity to create very special memories.
The Spa at Lake House, Daylesford
Is Lake House child friendly?
Yes however we are on an unfenced lake and ask parents to be mindful of the natural landscape. Onsite there are plenty of activities for kids – feeding the kookaburras, geese and ducks, fishing, flying kites, tennis, basketball, lake walks etc. Nearby there is also quad biking, clay pigeon shooting, horse riding, three golf courses and the Wildlife Park.
Is there anything else you’d like to add?
We have a few more unusual parts to the property. Our own resident artist Allan Wolf-Tasker’s studio is on site. At the moment he is working on a new exhibition “Lake Daylesford” which will be shown in Melbourne in November 2016. His studio is open to hotel guests or by appointment. We also display the work of several local artists throughout the gardens, in the public space and in the hotel rooms themselves.
The Lake House is also regularly featured on shows such as Masterchef. Culinary Director Alla Wolf-Tasker AM is an icon in the hospitality industry and is often representing Australia’s food and wine in partnership with Tourism Australia overseas.
Paul Bester is living the dream. Based at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef, his passion for nature and photography, as well as his upbringing in Africa make him one of Australia’s best guides. We found out more about him…
Please explain a little bit about who you are and what you do?
As the Head Guide at Sal Salis Ningaloo Reef I spend a lot of time out in the field with our guests, taking them on guided kayaking or bush walking in the Cape Range National Park, however, as we are a small team and in a remote location, I get involved in all aspects of the Camp from maintenance to training of the new guides and even waiting on tables at night. It is a varied life but I feel privileged to be in such a beautiful and natural location.
What got you started with your passion and what do you find most interesting about it?
My great passion is for the natural world, it always has been. I grew up on a tobacco farm in Zimbabwe and after studying in Cape Town spent time as a Ranger at a private reserve adjoining the world famous Kruger National Park. During these years I decided to focus on photography – it began as a way to connect with guests – helping them operate their, often very new, cameras. Soon I was spending all my free time expanding on my photography skills. I still love photography but I don’t get as much time as I would like for it. I could not be happier than when I am out in nature, surrounded by rugged, beautiful and wild landscapes with time to focus on my photography.
How do you bring the Australian natural world to life on your tours?
It is easy to bring the nuances of the Australian bush to life, there is so much that is completely unique here – flora and fauna that evolved differently and uniquely. You need to be out on foot, driving around you miss so much, the combination of a good walk, blue sky, the sounds of birds and insects, stopping to study tiny flowers or discover an ancient fossil …. All around us is life and once you get chatting about it, there are so many stories and fascinations to share.
Why do you think it’s important that people learn about the Australian natural world?
I think connecting with nature is something we all need to do more of. Disconnecting from the digital age and being totally surrounded by the Cape Range and Ningaloo Reef is an opportunity for most guests to slow down. What we do out here is good exercise for the body and for the soul. Bush walking, swimming, kayaking, leaping into the ocean to swim with a whale shark, seeing whales breaching as you have your breakfast, I can’t help feeling that if people feel connected to our natural world they will be better at protecting it in the future. To me it is important that I give them this chance to connect, by sharing my knowledge.
If people wanted to find out more about the Australian natural world are there any particular books, documentaries or websites you would recommend?
There are endless Field Guides to Australia’s plants, fish, reptiles, animals etc and once a traveller has found their particular interest they might care to invest in a good one. Out here we don’t have TV or internet so I am a bit out of touch with documentaries etc. We have a good library here at Sal Salis and I am working my way through it, I am currently reading a book at the Yamatji aboriginal people of the Gascoyne region, it is a collection of their memoirs and it spans the last 100 years.
What’s your favourite Australian animal and why?
Black footed rock wallaby, because it is endemic to the Cape Range National Park and because it is a positive conservation story, its numbers are increasing and we certainly see them on most of our Mandu Mandu Gorge walks. I love that I can share this beautiful creature with our guests.
What place is Australia’s best-kept secret?
Well perhaps I am biased but I would have to say Ningaloo Reef!!
What haven’t you seen / done in Australia that you’d like to and why?
OK, perhaps I am a little addicted to white sand and snorkelling and plenty of bush to explore but I would love to get over to the Whitsunday Islands.
Finally, how can people follow you on social media?
I am not very good at social media because, as I said, I don’t have internet at the camp but when I do spend time in town I pop up a photo on …
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
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.
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.
Emus at Arkaba
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 in the Kimberley
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.
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.
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
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 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 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, North Star Cruises with his catch of the day
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.
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?
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
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.
A touch of luxury on the Scenic Rim Trail
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!
