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Pure Pursuits Australia – Beyond the beaches

Posted on by Nicola Billens

  • Pure Pursuits

 

Alquemie

 

 

In March 2020, Alquemie, in conjunction with Tourism Australia, hosted PURE Pursuits, a 5-day event designed to transform the travel industry through in-depth, peer-to-peer discussions, insightful workshops and exhilarating challenges. PURE Pursuits Australia brought together a group of senior visionaries within the industry at a critical time for us all. It provided an incredible landscape to discuss and workshop the current landscape and provided invaluable learnings for everyone to move forward with in their businesses. It proved – as we all know – that we are #allinthistogether.

 

“I was blown away by every single detail that went into such a remarkable, seamless and memorable week. The attention to detail and weaving in of indigenous and regeneration narratives, along with the incredible backdrops you chose to highlight, came together to leave everyone spellbound by the country, the people and so importantly, the scale of the regeneration underway.”  (Jessica Den Boer – This is Beyond)

 

PURE PURSUITS DAY BY DAY EXPERIENCES

PURE PURSUITS DAY 1:

– Welcome To Country On Quarantine Beach
– Ultimate Wineries Sundowners
– Tourism Australia Welcome Dinner

STAY: Q Station

PURE PURSUITS DAY 2:

– Sydney Harbour Mini-Cruise
– Scenic Seaplane Flight To Jervis Bay
– Sand Dunes & Secrets of the Bush Walking Safari
– Stand Up Paddle Boarding
– Sundowners On The Sandbar
– Dinner Under The Southern Stars

STAY: The Cove Jervis Bay

PURE PURSUITS DAY 3:

– Mountain Biking Through Booderee National Park
– Waterfalls Hike In Macquarie Pass National Park
– Escarpment Walk Into Ooralba
– Sundowners At The Tea House
– Dinner With A View
– Campfire Under A Full Moon

STAY: Bush Safari Tents At Ooralba Estate

PURE PURSUITS DAY 4:

– Forest Bathing & Nature Wellness
– Bushfire Introduction
– Canoes, Canapés And Champagne
– Sundowners In The Amoeba Garden
– Birch Grove BBQ Feast With Guest Chef Nick Gardiner
– Nocturnal Search For The Kangaroo Valley Panther

STAY: Bush Safari Tents At Ooralba Estate

PURE PURSUITS DAY 5:

– Bushwalk At Belmore Falls
– Above The Fire-Ground Scenic Flight
– Bushfire Regeneration Experiences
– Farewell Dinner

STAY: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley

Thank you to all our amazing PURE PURSUITS suppliers….

 

 

ULTIMATE WINERY EXPERIENCES AUSTRALIA

Ultimate Winery Experiences Australia is a hand-selected collection of Australia’s premium wineries offering quality winery experiences based around world class wines, warm and knowledgeable hospitality and culinary excellence.

Go beyond the cellar door to discover characteristics unique to each winery. A wine tasting at one of our wineries can range from an intimate tutored wine tasting and chance to meet the winemakers to a wine blending lesson to test your own palate. A winery tour could not only reveal stories about the families behind each winery, but involve a scenic regional flight, a relaxing bike ride or adventurous 4WD tour.

Our wineries are not simply venues to taste and purchase wine. They offer a memorable experience featuring quality restaurants, accommodation, tours, as well as exciting behind the scenes winery experiences. They allow visitors to interact with the product, the winemaker and enjoy first-hand, the rich diversity that Australia’s many wine regions have to offer.

ultimatewineryexperiences.com.au
facebook.com/UltimateWineriesAU
instagram.com/ultimatewineries

 

Q STATION

Q Station is a unique, heritage listed hotel located at North Head, Manly. Spread over 33 hectares, the property offers 11 dedicated function rooms as well as a range of outdoor event space, 106 accommodation rooms, two restaurants and a bar and a variety of tours and team building activities. Set against the backdrop of stunning Sydney Harbour, Q Station has its own private beach and wharf with direct access to the harbour. Experience a truly unique slice of Sydney’s history. qstation.com.au facebook.com/QStationManly instagram.com/qstation

 

SYDNEY PRINCESS CRUISES

Sydney Princess Cruises began operation in 2001 and has become one of Sydney’s leading and most respected private charter boat operations on Sydney Harbour. Starting with our first vessel, the MV Sydney Princess in 2001, then purchasing a second vessel the MV Sydney in 2004, we have now moved on to the cruising on the luxurious MV Ocean Blue, MV Jerry Bailey, MV Sydney, M/Y Affinity, MV Lithgow.

We are a team of committed, positive and successful people who are always striving to be balanced, integrated and honest. With the stunning range of boats available for Sydney harbour cruises, we offer tours, events and functions of excellence with quality attention to detail and professional, personalized service.

sydneyprincesscruises.com.au
facebook.com/sydneyprincesscruises1
instagram.com/sydneyprincess_cruises

 

SYDNEY SEAPLANES

After flying out of Sydney Harbour for 80 years we’ve become a part of quintessential Sydney as we fly right over, above and around some of the world’s most awe-inspiring views – the Opera House, the Harbour Bridge, Pittwater, a string of pristine city beaches and the luxuriant bushland of the Hawkesbury River region.

seaplanes.com.au
facebook.com/sydneyseaplanes
instagram.com/sydney_seaplanes

 

WILD FOOD ADVENTURES

Wild Food Adventures is a nature tourism operator who has designed a range of compelling and exclusively crafted ways to explore the Southern Highlands and Shoalhaven regions. More than just overnight or day trips, these are immersive, hands-on and creative adventures connecting with people, place and produce. Experience pristine wilderness, meet boutique award winning cool climate wine makers, explore historical villages, hike rainforest trails, taste bush foods, swim in waterfalls, cycle through vast forests, be part of the paddock to plate process, unearth truffles, learn artisan crafts, harvest hops and taste fresh local produce crafted into culinary moments. As destination specialists we craft small group experiences for the travel industry, providing guests with tailored choices. Wild Food Adventures is part of Experience Nature Group which includes Highlands Harvest Feasts (seasonal event series) and Wildfest (corporate retreats, glamping and a wild nature festival).

wildfoodadventures.com.au
instagram.com/wildfoodadventures
facebook.com/wildfoodadventuresAUS

 

PADDLE & PORTAGE CANOES

Travis Frenay, our guide from Paddle & Portage Canoes, has been a professional outdoor guide and paddling instructor for almost 20 years and has a background in Conservation and Environmental Science. Paddle & Portage is Australia’s largest canoe-specific business, offering imports, sales, hire, guiding, accredited tuition, and skills instruction. Travis is also the lead teacher of canoeing in the award-winning outdoor recreation course at TAFENSW, Lithgow.

Travis has crafted an incredible and unique event for Wild Food Adventures where we have joined two canoes together to create a floating raft that is easy to manoeuvre and unsinkable for every level of paddler. Wild Food Adventures added in local produce and wine to create what is known as Canoes, Champagne and Canapé experience and this was the start of a great partnership. Travis and his team now manage all the Experience Nature Groups outdoor leisure activities from day tours to retreats.

paddleportagecanoes.com.au
facebook.com/paddleportagecanoes
instagram.com/paddleandportagecanoes

 

CHRISTIE LITTLE – FOREST BATHING

Christie was the first internationally certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide in New South Wales, Australia. She has qualifications and over 10 years of experience in biofeedback for stress and energy management, nutrition and wellness coaching, positive neuroplasticity mindfulness training. In addition she holds a First Class Honours degree in Economics and a Graduate Certificate in Change Management.

In natural settings, her wellbeing walks and retreats, explore a range of wellbeing themes such as purpose & meaning, personal identity, belonging, joy and awe, stress release and energy management. All of which are scientifically proven to boost our wellbeing and resilience. Themes are explored through techniques including Shinrin Yoku (forest bathing), mindfulness, walking coaching, journaling, art therapy and healthy eating.

Experience Nature Group and Christie Little are proud to offer a range of unique nature connection experiences from 2-hour forest bathing experiences to 8 day retreats in the best locations nature has to offer.

 

BRENDON BEVAN – PRIVATE GUIDE

Brendon grew up on the family owned Game Lodge in the Northern Provence of South Africa near the Gaborone border with Botswana – an environment which was to influence his life dramatically and ultimately form the foundation of a very fortunate career guiding in some of the most pristine habitat Africa has to offer.

An unquenchable thirst for knowledge saw Brendon navigate his way throughout Southern Africa, guiding and managing lodges in some of the most remote and exclusive areas of South Africa, Botswana, Mozambique and Zambia.

In 2010, that same thirst drew Brendon deep into the Australian Outback having fallen in love with an entirely new wilderness. Working with the most exclusive and wildlife focussed lodges that Outback Australia has to offer, Brendon’s guiding career spans more than two decades and traverses two of the most environmentally diverse continents on Earth.

To experience wilderness, is to reconnect on an almost primal level, to engage all of the senses and rediscover yourself in the vastness of nature.

 

THE COVE – JERVIS BAY

Offering 1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Boutique Cabins, Luxe Glamping Tents and an uber-cool 7-Bedroom House with the calm waters of Sussex Inlet on one side & the famous pipeline of Bherwerre beach on the other – The Cove Jervis Bay is truly paradise.

The sound of the ocean replaces the noise of traffic; native wildlife abounds as kangaroos hop through the grounds and colourful parrots skim through trees; the backdrop is of forest, not buildings. While our location can be used as a base to explore the historic surrounding districts, its relaxed atmosphere and tranquil beachfront location surrounded by Booderee National Park lead most guests to relax and enjoy the simple pleasures of swimming, bushwalking, boating, reading, and, in the evening meeting fellow guests at the central BBQ facilities.

Put simply, just relaxing! All within an easy drive and on our very own privately accessed beach. Pure Bliss.

thecovejervisbay.com.au
facebook.com/TheCoveJervisBay
instagram.com/thecovejervisbay

 

OORALBA

Commanding 200 acres of lush grounds and uninterrupted views across the stunning Morton National Park, Ooralba is a standout venue for small group tours, family and friends as well as corporate events. From executive retreats to large scale gatherings, our exclusive country estate provides a magnificent setting for events of all sizes, with a vast array of tailored activities and experiences to uplift and inspire.

Immerse yourself in nature with our luxury safari camps, discover local delights at a nearby oyster farm or take time to recharge in the comfort of the homestead. Whatever the activity the Ooralba Estate Team will take care of every logistical requirement to ensure a flawless stay. Our unique dining experiences are the jewel in the crown that promise to deliver the wow factor. Partnering with some of Australia’s finest chefs, we are proud to bring you some of the finest produce in Australia, served in a spectacular setting that will truly take your breath away.

ooralba.com
instagram.com/ooralba_estate
twitter.com/ooralba_estate

 

HAMPDEN DELI – KANGAROO VALLEY

With a world of experience and love for good food and good service, hatted Chef Nick Gardner and his wife Stevie-Lee Bounader created Hampden Deli. Set in the heart of the picturesque Kangaroo Valley, New South Wales, the Deli makes memories out of meals. By day, they source the finest, seasonal and local ingredients to create fresh and flavour driven daily changing meals.

Stop in for a grazing board or take with you a lunch box filled with goodness. Food explorers and lovers alike dine at Hampden Deli’s pop-up degustations to experience masterfully created dishes presented with passion.

Hampden Deli is a nourishing destination not to be missed.

hampdendeli.com.au
facebook.com/hampdendelidiningschool
instagram.com/hampden_deli_dining_school

 

EMIRATES ONE&ONLY WOLGAN VALLEY

Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley is a scenic three-hour drive from Sydney, located on Australia’s Great Dividing Range between the Wollemi National Park and the Gardens of Stone National Park, within the World Heritage-listed Greater Blue Mountains.

The resort occupies just one percent of its own 2,800-hectare conservancy. The Wolgan Valley is approximately 26 kilometres long and seven kilometres wide. Steep cliffs contrast with the gentle curve of the valley floor and a picturesque road winds along the river to reach the resort on the eastern end.

Our beloved 7,000-acre reserve continues its journey to rejuvenation after the bushfires, with many parts of the valley in bloom and native wildlife thriving. Incredibly, we’re also seeing new species seeking sanctuary across our diverse landscape. The team continues to deliver unforgettable One&Only experiences and we look forward to welcoming your clients as they take the opportunity to witness the once-in-a-lifetime beauty and power of rejuvenation taking place across the reserve.

oneandonlyresorts.com/wolgan-valley
facebook.com/emiratesoneandonlywolganvalley
instagram.com/wolganv/

 

TESALATE TOWELS

Say hello to a vibrant, sand free, compact, quick-drying beach towel that fits in your bag from the original Australian beach towel company.

Tesalate is proudly an Australian-designed beach towel created by two friends, Volkan Ozbek and Jacky Lam. After 18 months of planning, product development and testing, Tesalate finally launched at Bondi Beach Markets in

  1. From there, Tesalate rapidly expanded by selling towels to customers in over 100 countries within 2 years.

Tesalate beach towels are light-weight and perfect for international travellers.

au.tesalate.com

#tesalate #tesalatetowel #tesalatebeachtowels

facebook.com/tesalate
instagram.com/tesalate
pinterest.com/tesalate

 

EDIBLE BEAUTY

“The Edible Beauty Australia philosophy is based on illuminating your natural beauty using pure, wildcrafted and botanical ingredients that are literally good enough to eat.”

Developed by naturopath and nutritionist Anna Mitsios, Edible Beauty Australia offers luxurious “edible” skincare products, “beauty” teas and wellness supplements containing therapeutic botanicals and wildcrafted Australian ingredients designed to have you glowing both inside and out. Anna is passionate about using nutrition through food and herbs to achieve radiance, vitality and bountiful youth.

The radiance of our energy, skin and personality is a direct reflection of what we put on and in it – we are what we eat – as the saying goes. The Edible Beauty Australia product range epitomises purity, luxury and quality, as well as the wellbeing and longevity of the skin, body and mind.

ediblebeautyaustralia.com
facebook.com/EdibleBeautyAu
instagram.com/EdibleBeautyAu/

 

PEARLS OF AUSTRALIA

Pearls of Australia is a joint venture between Cygnet Bay Pearls and Broken Bay Pearls who represent two species of premium quality pearls with a guarantee of provenance and purity, as well as immersive industry experiences such as farm tourism offerings and industry education.

From New South Wales’ stunning Central Coast to the remote Kimberley of North Western Australia, Pearls of Australia represents a vast range of products and experiences centered around the Australian South Sea Pearl of Cygnet Bay north of Broome, and the Australian Akoya Pearl of Broken Bay north of Sydney.

Discover this rare opportunity to get behind the scenes and discover the story of the Australian Pearl.

pearlsofaustralia.com.au
facebook.com/PearlsofAustralia
instagram.com/pearlsofaustralia

GOLDFIELD & BANKS AUSTRALIA

The Goldfield & Banks Australia story actually begins on the other side of the world when Dimitri Weber – like so many voyagers before him – set out on a journey to discover the curious, enigmatic land that lay far beyond the horizon. Falling in love with Australia’s dramatic, contrasting landscapes, Dimitri set out to capture this extraordinary beauty and share it with the world.

That sense of discovery is the essence Goldfield & Banks Australia. Our luxury perfume celebrates the unrelenting spirit of Australia, from the pristine beaches of the southern coastline to the endless red dirt plains of the desert heartland.

Goldfield & Banks Australia also pays homage to Australia’s first botanist and naturalist Joseph Banks. A curious explorer and prodigious collector, Banks’ collection of Australian plants, seeds, insects, and wildlife was the first to reveal the vast botanical richness of the continent to the European world.

goldfieldandbanks.com
facebook.com/goldfieldandbanksaustralia
instagram.com/goldfield_and_banks_australia

Volunteer tree planting for koalas

Posted on by Nicola Billens

I recently spent a day with Janine Duffy, one of Australia’s best nature guides, planting trees that will soon become koala habitat.  In addition to her nature tourism business Echidna Walkabout Tours, Janine recently founded Koala Clancy, a not-for-profit that plants trees for koalas, creates new habitat and advocates for better protection of wild koalas.

It was a chilly Sunday morning but our group of 20 were rugged up and keen to help. We were on a gorgeous private farm about an hour east from Melbourne. The property owners were generously allowing perfectly good farm land to be re-populated with thousands of trees.

Janine’s passion and enthusiasm to help the koalas is contagious. She explained the issues such as loss of habitat due to humans and the recent bushfires, and that a single koala typically needs a huge range of about 5,000 trees (even if they only use about 350 of them). This year she had planned to plant 30,000 trees however with Covid-19 affecting things the aim is now 15,000. Her goal is to create a wildlife corridor which spans multiple properties and connects with the You Yangs and Brisbane Ranges.

With a little bit of instruction we were underway. The holes were already dug, and the saplings next to them ready to plant so it felt like the hard work was already done. The other volunteers were a pleasure to be around – all of them interested in nature and keen to give back. For some it was also their first time, but others had done tree planting once or twice before.

After a few hours we had planted 500 trees. It was a really satisfying feeling to know that in four to six years they will already be strong enough for koalas.

After we finished the morning’s work Janine took us on a walk to show us how quickly some recently planted trees had grown, and then on a bush walk. It was a lovely way to finish the day.

Travellers are welcome to join a group to help with the koala habitat recovery. There are one, two or three day options on set dates – all with planting in the morning and nature walks in the afternoon.  For people who can’t make a set date, private arrangements can also be made.

1 day Koala Recovery Experience

(2 or 3 day options are also available)

Depart Melbourne city accommodation. Travel about an hour west to our tree planting site near the You Yangs Ranges.

The tree planting sites are usually along rivers, creeks and near waterholes on farms on the Western Plains. The morning is spent planting koala trees in these high-quality, fertile sites, often in the company of the landowner, local community members and Koala Clancy Foundation volunteers and staff. Holes are pre-dug to make tree planting quick and easy.

Lunch is usually taken picnic-style either at the planting site or in nearby bushland.

The afternoon is spent on nature walks to visit the koalas that will benefit most from the tree planting. Other wildlife is frequently seen. Return to Melbourne around 4pm.

Upcoming dates: 2020: August: 6, 7, 8 and 20, 21, 22 2021: July: 1, 2, 3 and 16, 17, 18 and 29, 30, 31 August: 13,14,15 and 26, 27, 28

Please contact Alquemie to include an experience like this as part of an itinerary info@alquemie.com.au.

For Melbourne locals wishing to just volunteer, please contact Koala Clancy directly.

Australian Bushfire Update – Blue Mountains & Kangaroo Island

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Impact for International Tourists
Whilst the fires have caused issues for many domestic holiday-makers, from an international tourism standpoint, the fires have only seriously impacted a few of the most popular tourist destinations – the Blue Mountains, Southern Highlands and Kangaroo Island. The vast majority of Australia is unaffected, open for business and is completely safe to visit.

We have been working with all our agents who have guests in-country or arriving in the coming days and weeks to ensure that they have alternative options if the bushfires are impacting their journeys.

LISTEN TO OUR BUSHFIRE UPDATE WEBINAR – FROM JANUARY 29 2020

VISIT THE TOURISM AUSTRALIA BUSHFIRE UPDATE PAGE

How you can help
We have been asked by many how they can help. The best way to help is to continue to come to Australia with confidence – Australia is a large country (similar in size to the USA) and there are plenty of incredible places still to enjoy. View this map of all the unaffected areas by Tourism Australia.

Please enquire for itineraries that incorporate some ‘voluntourism’ experiences that help give back to bushfire affected communities.

If you would like to donate to help victims of the fires, below are some organisations that we recommend:

Help wildlife
WIRES (Wildlife Rescue and Education Service)
Mogo Zoo
Port Macquarie Koala Hospital
Wildlife Walkabout Park
Kangaroo Island Mayor’s Bushfire Appeal
Wildlife Rescue South Coast
Native Wildife Rescue

Help people
Australian Red Cross Disaster Relief
St Vincents de Paul
Salvation Army

Alquemie has donated to both the Red Cross and the Wildlife Walkabout Park (see the video taken in November  – they were training the animals to follow to safety in case of fire – thankfully they were all fine after a fire came close).

REMOTE OUTBACK ADVENTURE TOP END, KIMBERLEY & NINGALOO

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Alquemie is very pleased to announce its first small group air safari for clients who would like to experience Australia’s remote outback by private air charter over 16 incredible days in May 2019.

Starting in Darwin, this air safari takes just 8 guests to far flung locations like Kakadu and Arnhem Land, the Bungle Bungles, Mitchell Falls, Ningaloo Reef and much more.  Accommodation ranges from luxury lodges to remote rustic beach camps with incredible experiences.

This small group hosted air safari is perfect for couples who wish to meet like minded people or for those that wish to see this incredible part of Australia by charter flight but would prefer to share the air costs.

With just 8 places we expect this tour to sell out quickly.

View the full itinerary here. 

 

16 DAY HOSTED SMALL GROUP AIR SAFARI BY PRIVATE JET
Dates: 13 – 28 MAY 2019

Highlights

Meet and engage with traditional Aboriginal elders, a modern day urban Indigenous chef and Aboriginal artists living in a remote and restricted community near abundant rock art galleries.

See Australia’s spectacular outback and coastal scenery by air, land, and water with expert guides and local, authentic characters leading you to magical spots in the middle of nowhere.

Discover the wealth of Australia’s unique wildlife.

Swim with whale sharks, the ocean’s gentle giants, in the pristine turquoise waters of Ningaloo Reef.

Stay at exclusive wilderness locations chosen for their breadth of interesting experiences including a bush campsite in the heart of Kakadu, a working cattle station, a cliff-top retreat on 700,000 acres of stunning outback, an award-wining rustic seaside camp accessible only by air or sea, and a desert-meets-the-ocean luxury tented camp.

Private Bungle Bungles Insight – The Kimberley

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Anthony’s educational in the Kimberley

Alquemie’s Australian Specialist Anthony Radic journeyed to the Kimberley, Western Australia in April 2018 for an eight night educational. Part of this was a 4 day, 3 night ‘Bungle Bungles Insight’ journey by 4×4 starting in Broome and ending in Kununurra with the key highlight being the UNESCO World Heritage listed bee-hive striped domes of the Bungle Bungles, only ‘discovered’ in the mid 1980s although Aboriginal occupancy in the region dates back tens of thousands of years.

Highlights included: Derby, Fitzroy Crossing, Mimbi Caves, Halls Creek, Echidna Chasm, Escarpment Walk, Stonehenge, The Bungle Bungle Domes, Elephant Rock, Prison Boad Tree, Picanniny Creek & Lookout, Cathedral Gorge.

Anthony’s feedback on the journey:

  • Excellent guiding. Aboriginal knowledge and history was superb.
  • My guide Ed knew the locals really well which is perfect when guiding in these areas.
  • The trip is fully flexible and can also include the Pilbara region

Below is his itinerary and photos.

Day 1 Derby, Gibb River Road, Fitzroy River Lodge

Many parts of inland Kimberley are accessible only from May to October

 

From Broome Anthony travelled through the remote and beautiful landscape of the Western Kimberley, learnt about local history, people and the environment before crossing the Fitzroy River and visiting the a famous 1,500 year old Boab
Tree.

Next stop was the township of Derby located on the tidal mud flats on the edge of the King Sound, known for having the highest tidal range of any port in Australia. Here they also took the opportunity to drive on the remote cattle track, the Gibb River Road.

A short stop at the wonderful Mowanjum Aboriginal Art & Cultural Centre set the scene for the rest of the journey, educating Anthony about the Wandjina & Gwion Gwion spirits, so important in the region. Afterwards they passed the Oscar Ranges before arriving at comfortable accommodation on the banks of the Fitzroy River.

Day 2 Halls Creek, Spring Creek Track, Mimbi Caves

The next day they ventured into Purnululu National Park by way of the Mimbi Caves, which Anthony loved. A Welcome to Country ceremony by the local people whose land they were on started the proceedings. Inside the caves he sat in the dark and listened to stories of how traditional landowners lived in caves as late as the city of Darwin getting bombed. The afternoon was an adventurous 4WD journey along the Spring Creek Track.

Day 3 Echidna Chasm, Scenic Flight

Echidna Chasm

Anthony loved his day at the northern extremity of Purnululu National Park exploring Echidna Chasm, known for its towering Livistonia Palm trees. His walk up the creek bed was rewarded with a bird’s eye views of the shaded escarpment. Another walk through the bloodwoods went around the base of the massif.

Day 4 Picanniny Creek, Cathedral Gorge, (Optional Helicopter)

Cathedral Gorge (after a record dry monsoon season)

Picanniny Creek

 

Anthony’s last morning was spent exploring the extraordinary World Heritage protected Purnululu National Park and the famous Bungle Bungle domes. Rivers created this landscape of unique orange and black striped ‘beehive’ geological formations over a period of 20 million years. Unbelievably, only the locals knew it existed until the early 1980’s.

A gentle walk along the dry Picanniny Creek took Anthony to a look out and then into stunning Cathedral Gorge, where towering rocks create a natural amphitheatre.

After a picnic lunch he travelled to the Bungles airstrip for a scenic flight over the Argyle Diamond Mine landing in the vibrant East Kimberley town of Kununurra for the end of his trip.

Anthony’s trip was with Instyle Adventures and he stayed at Fitzroy River Lodge (1 night) and Bungle Bungle’s Savannah Lodge (2 nights). Please contact Anthony for more detailed information about his journey.

Great Barrier Reef Coral Bleaching update

Posted on by Nicola Billens

We often get asked about the coral bleaching of the Great Barrier Reef (GBR) and how it affects the guest snorkelling or diving experience at destinations such as Lizard Island, Qualia and Orpheus as well as day trips to the reef from Port Douglas and Cairns. Unfortunately the GBR reef has suffered severe coral bleaching in some areas for two years in a row.

Despite this, we believe that a visit to the Great Barrier Reef region in Tropical Far North Queensland is still a highlight of an Australian itinerary – the colourful fish remain and your off-the-reef experience at luxurious properties will relax and delight you.

For serious divers there are options for multi-day live-aboard journeys to locations further afield where there has been less bleaching and Ningaloo Reef off Western Australia is also a fantastic alternative.

Below is the current information available to us about the state of the reef.

What is coral bleaching?

Bleaching is a sign that corals are under stress. Corals are able to cope in a limited range of environmental conditions but when these limits are exceeded (e.g. temperature), they experience stress.

Most corals have microscopic marine algae (called zooxanthellae) living inside their tissue. These photosynthetic organisms give corals much of their colour and also provide up to 90 per cent of the energy corals need to grow and produce. When corals are under stress, this symbiotic relationship breaks down, and corals expel the zooxanthellae and begin to starve. As zooxanthellae leave the corals, the corals become paler and increasingly transparent.

However, corals also contain fluorescent proteins (green, yellow, red and cyan) that may help minimise damage from ultraviolet light. When corals lose their zooxanthellae (bleach), these fluorescent proteins become more visible and the coral can display striking fluorescent hues of pink, yellow or blue. Not all of these fluorescent proteins are visible in daylight though, so corals can also look completely white.

What is the current bleaching situation on the Reef?

In 2016, the Great Barrier Reef suffered the worst ever bleaching event due to record breaking summer sea surface temperatures. This was due in part to a strong El Niño combined with the ongoing effect of climate change. An estimated 22 per cent of coral on the Great Barrier Reef died as a result of bleaching, mainly from reefs in the northern section.

In 2017, the Great Barrier Reef, along with other reefs around the world, suffered a second consecutive year of mass coral bleaching, driven predominantly by ocean warming due to climate change. The effects of this event are being monitored and will continue to unfold for several months.

Click here for the latest update on reef health from the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority.

Source: Great Barrier Marine Park Authority

 

 

Great Barrier Reef Update from Lizard Island, 2017

 

There have been some areas that have been affected by coral bleaching and recent cyclones, however, a number of areas are still pristine and untouched, whilst some of the damaged ones are showing positive signs of regeneration and growth. There are some amazing coral formations and marine life abundance just 20m from our shores on Anchor Bay or Watson’s Bay, such as the renowned Giant Clams Garden and surrounding formations, and all of the inner and outer reef locations that we visit with our guests receive glowing reports every week.

Lizard Island remains the single best destination on the reef from which to explore what the Great Barrier Reef has to offer, either as a snorkeller or a diver. There are amazing locations in both the inner and outer reef regions, or just around the island itself.

Photographic evidence below has been taken by guests, staff and scientists as recently as April 2017 and showcases that the reef is thriving in many places around Lizard Island. Please also refer to the unsolicited feedback received on TripAdvisor from recent guests.

We are obviously very passionate about the region, but we remain neutral and fair about the guest experience and invite you to come and experience the wonderful marine, island and resort life that Lizard Island offers.

Emilio Fortini
General Manager

 

Further information provided by Tourism and Events Queensland.

The Great Barrier Reef is our most valuable natural tourism asset with around two million visitors experiencing it every year. The Queensland tourism industry plays a vital role in protecting the reef by actively participating in programs run by key stakeholders to monitor reef health and build resilience.

The following are some key tips to share with your clients who are asking about the Great Barrier Reef:

  • Follow #thisisqueensland and @Australia @Queensland to see what amazing reef experiences travellers and operators are sharing on a daily basis
  • Download the Eye on the Reef app which provides up to date observations on the health of the reef by visitors and operators:
  • Book a high standard commercial tourism operator who has Ecotourism Australia or EarthCheck certification:
  • Join the Citizens of the Great Barrier Reef – a social movement which aims to unite people from around the world to learn about and care about the Reef: www.citizensgbr.org
  • Visit the Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority, the official source of scientific information and facts: www.gbrmpa.gov.au

 

Fishing in Australia

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Australia’s fish population has had tens of millions of years to evolve and adapt to the unique aquatic environments of this massive, isolated island continent, so it’s hardly surprising that many species are found nowhere else on earth. However even those species you might be familiar with, such as black marlin and some types of tuna, tend to be more abundant and grow larger here than almost anywhere else. Below is a short list of some of Australia’s most exciting sport fishing target species or groups of fish.

 

For more information about fishing in Australia, visit the Australia website.

 

 

Pre-book for the silly season – Christmas & New Years

Posted on by Nicola Billens

It’s that time of year again already. The silly season is fast approaching and accommodation, experiences and restaurants WILL BOOK OUT. We can’t stress that enough. Please get in touch with us to lock in an amazing experience for your client. We can recommend some fabulous ideas to suit your client’s desires.

In Australia, it’s hot at Christmas and we celebrate on the day of the 25th, not Christmas Eve. You’ll often find families heading to the beach for a dip and a game of cricket after they’ve stuffed themselves with festive goodness and we recommend your clients join in the fun. It’s definitely a contrary experience to a Christmas in Europe or North America and a real part of the Australian culture. Our Christmas feast often consists of fresh seafood such as prawns and crayfish, ham off the bone and a roast turkey with all the trimmings. Around this time of year, a large portion of the local population head out of town to holiday destinations within a few hours drive of the capitals so often it’s mostly tourists that remain in the cities but the buzz of holiday season never wanes.

Please take note of the following:

Accommodation

Accommodation is already scare at the top end of the market. If you have clients thinking of travelling to Australia at this time of year, please get in touch immediately.

Dining

  • Most hotels have finalised their dinner and party menus and prices.
  • Other restaurants also have their festive season menus ready.
  • Ask us to book a dining experience for your client.

New Years Eve in Sydney – ideas

  • Spend the last evening of 2017 at the Sydney Opera House. Be entertained at the Opera Gala, featuring favourites by Verdi, Puccini, Rossini and more. Then, with a heart full of song, watch the fireworks the whole world watches. Interval is timed for the 9pm fireworks and the Sydney Opera House stays open well past the midnight fireworks
  • Charter a luxury vessel for your own private soiree to welcome in the New Year. While you sleep, the vessel can relocate so you’ll wake up to the soothing sounds of the Australian bush where you can swim, sunbathe and ease your way into the new year.
  • Grab the penthouse suite (be quick!) at any of Sydney’s harbour front hotels where your sky-high views of the fireworks will be the envy of all

Australian Airport security update

Posted on by Nicola Billens

The Australian Government has introduced additional aviation security measures for both international and domestic terminals at Australia’s major airports. These are precautionary measures.

The travelling public can expect to experience an increased level of security scrutiny at the airport but they should not be concerned about these precautionary measures. As the measures place an additional burden on the screening system, it may take a little longer than usual to get through the process.

·         Passengers should arrive at least 2 hours before domestic flight and 3 hours before international flights to allow time for security screening.
·         Passengers should limit the amount of carry-on and checked baggage they travel with as this will help to ensure security screening is efficient

There are no changes to what can and cannot be carried on-board the aircraft.

Hamilton Island – Back to business after Cyclone Debbie

Posted on by Nicola Billens

Happily Hamilton Island is back to business after Cyclone Debbie. Below is a message from them…

 

As you would be aware, Cyclone Debbie passed over Hamilton Island on Tuesday morning 28 March. Due to the incredible support of the local community, guests and our tireless staff, we were able to re-open on Saturday 8 April.

qualia Re-opening

Over the past three months our talented team has worked tirelessly to transform and inject their magic, bringing qualia back to the truly special place it is known to be. The distinctive style. The sun-drenched location. The intuitive service. These are all elements of the harmonious experience the resort strives to deliver to each guest, all of which have remained at the forefront as we reopened last weekend.  During the closure period, qualia has invested in the beautiful gardens and landscaping, the refurbishment of the soft finishes in each Pavilion and introduced a new, exclusive private charter motor yacht, Palm Beach. We have also transformed the dining offering with Long Pavilion now operating as a casual style bar and grill, and Pebble Beach transitioning to be the signature fine-dining experience with a six course tasting menu. These are all exciting changes that we look forward to our guests experiencing.

Sails Restaurant – Now open for Dinner

We are happy to announce that our adored dinner service at Sails Restaurant will again operate in addition to breakfast and lunch as of Friday 23 June. Chef Falk Boehlefeld has prepared a new menu which will be available between 11.30am – 9pm and we are eager to treat guests to a relaxed dining experience with our lovely team and breathtaking views of Catseye Bay.