Miners be brave – have a shave!

Foundation CEO Peter Johnstone said the community spirit of mining and energy sectors is amazing. “ Thanks to the support of many dedicated workers, their families and friends, the Mine Challenge has raised a total of almost $1.5 million since it started in 2005,” he said.

“With 27 companies and 46 sites donating their time, money and hair to raise $385,000 in 2009, the challenge is now on to better this total by signing up 50 sites across the state and raising more than $500,000.”

BHP Billiton Cannington mine in Far North Queensland is the first to sign up with funds raised through the Mine Challenge benefiting patients from regional communities who have to travel to Brisbane or Townsville for treatment.

To register for the 2010 Mine Challenge contact Chairperson Paul Barnard 3318 4437 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it

Mackay Events

May 21 to 29

The Sarina Art Exhibition has been running for 20 years.  It is one of the bigger and well known exhibitions in regional Queensland and is the largest in the Mackay-Whitsunday area.  It is well supported by local businesses and approximately50% of the artists exhibiting are from the Mackay Regional Council Area. It is highly regarded by artists from all over regional Queensland with many travelling some distance each year to visit the exhibition.  Phone 49562618

River Sessions

June 12

River Sessions is Mackay’s only youth music festival. Launched in 2009 it provides a multi-stage, music and visual arts large-scale event attracting those in the 18 – 35 age brackets from Mackay and regional Queensland and interstate territories.  River Sessions not only provides contemporary entertainment which is lacking for this demographic in this region, it also provides a much needed platform for locally-based artists to showcase their talent amongst national and international guest artists among a setting of world-class production. Last year Pez and Cassette Kids were two of the featured artists – stay tuned for this year’s line up.  Phone 0414242 468

Queensland Art Gallery gets its hat on

The Queensland Art Gallery (QAG) will be the only Australian venue to host Hats: An Anthology by Stephen Jones, a spectacular exhibition exploring the art of millinery.

From 27 March – 27 June, QAG will showcase more than 250 hats and iconic headpieces from London’s Victoria and Albert Museum. The exhibition was developed in collaboration with Stephen Jones, one of the world’s foremost milliners and features historical items such as a twelfth-century Egyptian fez to hats worn by Camilla Parker-Bowles, Mick Jagger and Kylie Minogue. Audiences will enjoy the frivolity of hats and learn about their personal, cultural and historical significance. Hot on its heels is another fashion inspired exhibition. In August, The Gallery of Modern Art will exclusively host Valentino, Retrospective – Past/Present/Future. This exhibition will present 100 garments tracing Valentino Garavani’s career, featuring dresses worn by Jackie Onassis and Julia Roberts. http://qag.qld.gov.au/

Winton scores Bush Laureate award

Winton Business & Tourism Association was one of two winners in the 2010 Bush Laureate Awards in the Book Of The Year Original Verse category. They won for “The Bronze Swagman Book of Bush Verse 2008” sharing with Grahame Watt for “I Likes A Laugh”.

Announced in Tamworth other award winners included:

Album of the Year Original Verse Golden Gumleaf – Noel Stallard for

His “ Bruce Simpson Bush Poetry”.

Single Recorded Performance – “The Anzac On The Wall” by Jim Brown

Judith Hosier Heritage Award – for outstanding achievement in nurturing our heritage of verse was presented to “ Blue The Shearer”.

With a real name of Col Wilson, “Blue” is a writer, performer, satirist ad retired bureaucrat who is legendary in Australia for this work as resident poet on the ABC. (by the way, he is not a shearer).

Joy McKean was made patron of the Bush Laureate Awards with next year’s nominations scheduled to open in August.

And all that jazz……

The Rum City of Bundaberg will have that certain New Orleans Cajun flavour and distinctive sound when it hosts the 66^th Annual Jazz Convention in 2011.

This largest convention of its type in the world has been held annually for 64 years; last year in Melbourne and this year in Orange.

When 600 jazz enthusiasts and musicians from Australia and overseas descend upon Bundaberg there’ll be street parades, park performances, workshops and heaps of great music. The convention vote was won by the city when Bundaberg Regional Council events development officer Karen Richters made a successful presentation bid to the steering committee.

With the Jazz Convention running from December 26 to January 1, Mayor Lorraine Pyefinch predicts many visitors will arrive before that and enjoy the entire festive season in Bundaberg. “This will be huge and great for the city’s economy,” she said.

Mystical appeal of Magnetic Island

Captain Cook discovered this piece of paradise in 1770 and believed it had a magnetic force that interfered with his compass. Although he was mistaken, the name remained and the island’s mystical appeal still resonates with locals and visitors.

So powerful is the attraction of Magnetic Island about 3000 people have chosen to immerse themselves fully in this tropical lifestyle – they live there. Because of the residents there is ample shopping available in the four residential bays to make your tropical getaway as convenient as possible.

These range from boutiques, hair salons, coffee and craft shops, video stores and galleries, to supermarkets, pharmacy, newsagent, bakery, hardware stores, real estate agents and anything else you could need.

Sample the beauty of original and local artwork, jewellery and fashion and take home some mementos of your island holiday while meeting the friendly locals.

Island Events

Jazz at the Lagoon – May

Spend a warm tropical afternoon with a chilled glass of wine, quality food and great company as you listen to cool jazz and watch the kingfishers play at the water lily lagoon in Horseshoe Bay. This is one of the most popular past times on the Magnetic calendar.

Magnetic Island Race Week – September

Australia’s richest Sailing Regatta is held annually off the Island attractging some of the country’s leading mariners and yachts to Cleveland Bay. With a great range of divisions, races, functions and entertainment,this isa great week for competitors and spectators.

Great Tropical Jazz Party – October

This happens over three action-packed days and nights with an impressive assortment of international, national and local jazz musicians. Sit back and enjoy the eclectic mix of mainstream and contemporary jazz in an intimate resort setting.

Full Moon Party

Really let your hair down at this monthly party held at Nelly Bay. Dance the night away under the stars with the beachfront as your dance floor. Local and international DJs make this an island experience not to be missed.

Gympie Events

Heart Of Gold International Film Festival

March 11 to 14

An international film festival set in the gold rush heartland of the Sunshine Coast, screens for the fourth consecutive year.  The Heart Of Gold Festival is the first film festival in Australia to exclusively screen entertaining, thought provoking, life affirming and uplifting films.

Gympie, nestled in the Sunshine Coast Hinterland within 45 minutes of Noosa Heads offers film lovers and filmmakers a picturesque location with a relaxed ambience to view some of the world’s most extraordinary films:  positive, funny and engaging.  You come out feeling good.

Now in its fourth year the film festival, regarded as one of the most significant in the country offers special events, workshops, seminar programs and master classes and features an extensive international short film program together with a number of feature films which will collectively inspire you, make you giggle and warm your hearts. Phone 5483 7000

Gympie Ultimate Steam Festival

April 9 to 12

Demonstrating all aspects of Steam driven transport and industry, the Valley Rattler Steam Train trip departs daily for half day tours.  Th3  1873 vertical steam engine, The Mary Anne will be taking passengers on local trips.  There will be a Gympie Gold Mind Massive 1890 Steam driven mine winding engine, steam powered generator for mine lights and steam powered air compressor for mine jackhammers.  The Steam Powered winding engine was used to lower miners up to one kilometre into the mine and to haul out the gold ore.

There will be a Woodworking Museum steam powered timber mill plus working steam engines and tractors on display.  A fully restored 1930 vintage bus will transport patrons to the three events, all inclusive for all venues in the ticket price – three fabulous days of entertainment and discovery.  Phone 54822750

Central Queensland’s bid to join NRL

 CQ NRL Bid Chairman, Geoff Murphy said it was great to be in the Isaac region, an area noted for its huge contribution to regional, state and national economies as well as true rugby league heartland.

“Out here you are particularly keen supporters of league – you just have to walk the local streets to see that,” he said.

The Isaac Region has produced several top-liners in rugby league including former Origin stars Matt Sing, Clinton Schifcofske, Josh Hannay and Travis Norton.

“I look forward to the day when a local boy from Dysart, Moranbah, Clermont or anywhere else in the Isaac Region gets the chance to follow his dream of playing NRL football right here in Central Queensland in his own backyard,” said Mr Murphy.

He said there was also the possibility of bringing games to the Isaac Region. “ A CQ based NRL club would probably look at bringing its Toyota Cup side to somewhere like Moranbah on a regular basis;  bringing players out to local schools and participate in community events.”

A petition for a CQ based NRL side is available for signing at all offices of the Isaac Regional Council.

New eco-transport hits the road

Green transport has taken off in Brisbane and on the Gold Coast with two new eco-transport alternatives now available.

Brisbane’s Green Cabs, a fleet of cycle taxis operating out of South Bank, through the city centre and along riverside bicycle pathways, is providing carbon-free and fun transport options for people needing to travel short distances in and around the CBD. Unique riverside tours include the new Kurilpa Bridge and Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA), but riders can design their ride to go further along the river to New Farm or Toowong. Green Cabs operate from the Wheel of Brisbane, Southbank on weekends and public holidays from 12 noon until late, and on Friday evenings from 5pm. The Gold Coast is also enjoying their share of green transport alternatives with the arrival of the Eco-Bike. The eco-friendly, electric powered Eco-Bike is a cheap, fun and unique transport option. For only $10 for two hours why not get out in the fresh air, peddle from the Spit to Point Danger and discover the Gold Coast the green way. www.greencabs.net.au www.australia.jtb.com.au/

Calling all Drovers

Young and old drovers are invited to the 2010 Drovers Reunion which will be held at the Australian Stockman's Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre Longreach on the  Labour weekend in May. Phone Ken Hall at  07 41247512 for details

Gold Coast Events

Australian Surf Lifesaving Championships

Kurrawa Beach, Broadbeach

March 16 to 21

This is the largest sporting event of its type in the world and uniquely Australian, attracting an average 7000 competitors who contest more than 295 events including board races, swim, Ironman and Ironwoman, beach events and much more.  Free to the public the Aussies provide plenty of thrills and spills for all spectators. Phone 02 9300 4000

Magic Millions National Sale

May 24 – June 10

It’s where the future thoroughbred racing champions of the world emerge.  A spectacular auction of some of the finest horses on offer, the Magic Millions National Sale is a key industry event.

Cementing Magic Millions reputation on the international scene,many graduates of these sales have gone on to have spectacular racing careers.

Complemented by a dazzling social calendar with events ranging from sales to racing, polo, showjumping, music and entertainment, this has fast become a “must be there” event worldwide. Phone 5504 1200

Wide Bay Water delivers WetSide

WetSide Water Education Park at Hervey Bay  is complete after  eight months of fast-paced construction and the inspirational dedication of many local workers.

The park is described as a fun, free, eco-friendly public space where visitors can splash under fountains, children can play on slides, toddlers can frolic in TotSide and ‘big kids’ can surf the FlipSide BoardRider. And all in a zero-depth, WaterWise setting with the water being harvested from Pialba’s stormwater district.

Visitors can get wet under hundreds of jets and spouts in its main play area which operates both in gentle play mode and in high-powered show mode when the fountains dance to music and light.

The park is filled with hundreds of water
messages, delivered in short, drip-feed style,
so there is nowhere at WetSide that doesn’t deliver interesting water education.

WetSide has brought surfing to Hervey Bay thanks to the FlipSide BoardRider wave machine. It’s the park’s only pay-per-use feature.

WetSide Water Education Park is open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 8pm and Sunday from 10am to 6pm.

The winners of the Star Sign Books

International astrologer Milton Black has released his horoscopes for this year and here are the winners of the  Milton Black Star Sign Books in the competition in the last  Coalfields Express newspaper.
Marie Brockie  Weipa, Felicitas Scholss  Blackwater, Joanne Bright  Mount Isa, Brita Flecken  Charters Towers , Cheryl Jackson Dysart, Carole Hurst  Biloela, Coby Zevenbergen Charters Towers and Joan Needer Emerald .

There is a separate book for each star sign and in pocket sized format just right for every woman's handbag or every man's manbag.

Milton Black who writes for magazines, TV and radio, with an

international clientele of over 500,000 makes predictions with amazing accuracy.

His horoscopes for next year are available in bookstores and

Congratulations to the winners and Coalfields Express thank all who entered.

We have the results of all our competitions at www.coastlinenews.com.au  See if you have won!

The largest sporting event of its type in the world.

The Australian Surf Lifesaving Championships will be held at Kurrawa Beach on the Gold Coast from the  16th to 21st March with 7,500 members from over 300 clubs  expected to  take  part.

The Whereis® Australian Surf Life Saving Championships is Surf Life Saving’s biggest celebration, bringing together clubs and members from across the country, showcasing our finest surf lifesavers.

Competitors will battle it out on the sand and in the surf across more than 295 exhilarating Surf Life Saving events during six days of action-packed competition.

The Whereis® Aussies is the largest sporting event of its type in the world. And yet it remains uniquely Australian – the Aussies is actually one of only few national championships that is open up to all members. Regardless of age or experience, the Whereis® Aussies caters for all members from 16 or 60.

The Whereis® Aussies represents the peak national competition for surf lifesavers who give up their time to patrol the nation’s beaches.

Some of the highlights include feature events such as Ironman and Ironwoman racing, surf boats, ski paddling, beach flags, and more. And it’s all FREE to the public.

For more events go to www.coastlinenews.com.au

MotorMania CQ roars into Central Queensland

Central Queensland motor-interest clubs will come together to excite and entertain locals and visitors with existing motorsport organisations in Rockhampton and Gladstone running events throughout 10 days of MotorMania in July next year.

Motorsport fans will enjoy the major event at venues including Benaraby Motorsportz Complex, Rockhampton and Gladstone Showgrounds,  Fitzroy Raceway, Pink Lily and Capricorn Resort Yeppoon all revving up to take part.

Rockhampton Regional Council has provided support with funding to enable the engagement of event manager, Ellie Traynor.

The program will feature the QRC Rally, karting, motocross, a specialist swap and car boot sale, youth driver training, drags, a burnout contest, trade fair, bitumen street sprint, a show and shine and supercruise.

With the involvement of some of Central Queensland’s popular motorsporting clubs and venues, the event will delight everyone from the motoring devotee to the novice.

Artists’ camps in the Outback

Be inspired by vast landscapes and a palette of colours at a unique artists’ camp in Outback Queensland.

Annabel Tully’s Outback artists’ camps, held on Bunginderry, a cattle and sheep property near Quilpie in south-west Queensland, are a week of creativity, relaxation, rejuvenation and shared passion. Beginners and experienced artists are invited to stay in authentic shearers’ quarters, discover life on the land and create their own Outback inspired masterpieces. Each day Annabel and her guest tutor will accompany visitors to a stunning place in the Bunginderry area to create in the open air, drawing inspiration from an abundance of wildlife, birdlife and Queensland’s best Outback vistas. Enjoy wholesome homestyle cuisine, bushwalking trails, art workshops and plenty of fresh air on this one-of-a kind outback retreat. Group artists’ camps are being run May 23-30, July 11-17 and 25-31, and there are opportunities for self-catering camps and artists-in-residence. www.annabeltully.com/

Events around the State

Easter Vintage Festival

Toowoomba

April 3 to 5

Highlands Pioneer Village is celebrating its 13^th Annual Easter Vintage Festival Easter Saturday, Sunday and Monday.  The theme of the Festival is “Experience pioneer life”.  On show will be displays and demonstrations including historical representations and re-enactments of pioneering life including arts, crafts, music, animal nursery, vintage machinery and age-old crafts such as silversmithing, tinsmithing and blacksmithing.

Kilkivan Great Horse Ride

April 9 to 11

This is held annually during the Easter school holidays attracting up to 1500 horses, riders and horse-drawn vehicles.  Participants can choose one of five trails of 20 – 30kms through picturesque countryside.  At 4pm all riders meet for the grand parade through the main street of Kilkivan.  Markets, street activities and pony rides provide fun and entertainment while spectators await the arrival of the horses.  Following the parade, everyone can relax at the Campfire Concert.  The KGHR is for people of all ages and riding ability from all walks of life. The ride also incorporates the Bi-Centennial National Trail.

1770 Festival

Town of 1770, Discovery Coast, May 20 – 24

Celebrating the “Birthplace of Queensland’ the Captain Cook 1770 Festival has been an annual event for 17 years commemorating the visit of The Endeavour and landing of Lt James Cook and his crew in May 1770.  The festival includes a diverse array of cultural entertainment with Art Exhibition, Comedy Show, Film Night, Battle Of The Bands contest, children and youth Artspace workshops, re-enactment, street parade and weekend-long live music, great food and market stalls – showcasing the magnificent local/regional arts workers and performers. www.1770festival.com.au

Festive New Year Cruise filled with Island Magic

Enjoy Superliner cruising from your doorstep now that the Pacific Dawn has called Brisbane home.

Heralding a new age of luxury with superb Italian architectural design, Pacific Dawn is instantly identifiable by the distinctive dolphin-like prow with a domed observation lounge delivering magnificent panoramic views as it curves smoothly around the ship.

Australia’s first Superliner will impress and satisfy – its 11 decks feature two pools, five dining areas, nine bars and lounges, two storey show lounge, three storey atrium lobby and especially for the children, some fabulous facilities dedicated to endless leisure time treats and activity.

And what about these extras! Four whirlpool spas, jogging track, internet café and library and when you feel like some indulgent pampering – take a spa treatment or massage.

Coastline Newspapers is promoting a New Years  Cruise which  is hosted  by Managing Director of Coastline Newspapers – Michael McRae

Spend 12 glorious nights on board  the cruise  departing December 27 from Brisbane to Isle Of Pines (New Caledonia) Mystery Island (Vanuatu) Port Denaru (Fiji) Suva, Vila (Vanuatu) and back to Brisbane.

Michael would love you to join him for some Island Magic

Phone Tracey  Aston at  5572 7272 for details

Outback Regional Gallery’s new exhibitions

Lindy Hardie’s first artistic venture was pottery in 1974, followed by screen printing. Her homestead garden at Dumfries has featured in the Australian Open Garden Scheme and she is co-author of Gardens Off The Beaten Track promoting Western Queensland.

Since 2005 Lindy has concentrated on developing her passion for photography with attendance at Arts West workshops in Blackall, Longreach and Winton.

Tony Walker has traversed the remote Kimberley from the harshly beautiful limestone ridges to remote Drysdale National Park.  His painting of the Kimberley express his vision of the timeless landscape.

His artistic ventures began with impressionist watercolours of landscapes around Brisbane to the Carnarvon Ranges in central Queensland during his childhood. He continued to exhibiting while maintaining a professional career in urban and design and landscape architecture.  Tony is now a full time artist, teaching and giving workshops – his next being a watercolour workshop in Winton on February 21.

See the works of both Lindy and Tony until May 7.

See that Spyder go!

Spyder Rider Australia is causing Gold Coast visitors to look twice as their stylish, and unusual, three-wheeled motorbikes zoom past.

The Gold Coast is the only place in the world people can ride a Can Am Spyder Roadster Motorbike. The unusual looking set of wheels offers riders and passengers the speed and thrills of a motorbike with the safety and stability of a car including traction control, stability control, power steering and ABS. The half day ‘You-Ryde’ tag along and ‘We-Ryde’ pillion passenger tours visit places including Springbrook, Mount Tamborine and Surfers Paradise. A valid motorcycle licence and a minimum age of 23 years is required for the You-Ride tour and both include gear hire (helmet, jacket and gloves), morning or afternoon tea, fuel, insurance and guide/s. Thrill Rydes also available. The Spyder can accelerate faster than a Porsche 911. You-Ryde and We-Ryde tours are for four hours from $250 per person and Thrill Rides are from $66 per person and range from 30 minutes to two hours. The Spyders are also available for private hire for up to five days. www.spyderryder.com.au

Australia’s biggest ever coal export deal

Clive Palmer of China First coal mines has signed a contract with one of China’s biggest power companies,  China Power International Development Limited, to export $69 billion worth of thermal coal from new mines in central Queensland over 20 years.

Under the agreement the company will take more than 30 million tones of coal, worth over $3 billion each year from  six mines to be built near Alpha in the Galilee Basin west of Emerald.

The project also involves the construction of a 500 km rail line linking the mine to a new coal ship terminal at Abbott Point near Bowen.

According to Premier Anna Bligh the deal still has to be given environmental assessments and if approved work should begin later this year with the mines fully operational by 2014.

The deal cements the future of Alpha and the Galilee Basin as an economic powerhouse for the state into the future. With other mines also proposed,  the region has the potential to produce 100 millions tonnes of coal a year.

The town has a population of 350 and will soon be home to more than two thousand people with thousands more living in nearby mining camps.

Just briefly…..

Qantas speeds up check-ins

Domestic check-ins at City Flyer ports across Australia will reduce waiting time says Qantas.  Their top-tier frequent flyers will receive Smart Cards that act as personal boarding passes; linked to a permanent luggage tag also from Qantas.

Passengers will swipe their card and head to a simplified baggage drop or straight through security to the gate or lounge. Only silver to platinum members and Qantas Club members will get the cards with proposed new online kiosks and improved baggage drop for bronze. Perth airport is first to get the system, then Sydney by the end of the year.

Barbie gets Best Tourism Experience

Barbie Defoe from California was selected randomly from 23,000 worldwide entries to be Ben Southall’s sidekick to promote Tourism Queensland to the rest of the planet. With husband and two daughters she’ll spend seven weeks all expenses paid, reporting directly to Ben (Best Job in the World) with photos, videos and guest blogs on the Tourism website.

Developers in National Parks?

Premier Anna Bligh said the state government would seek expressions of interest from developers to build eco-tourism resorts in parks including Fraser Island, Lamington, D’Aguilar, Moreton Island and others. Conservations groups universally oppose the move saying environmentally aware tent-style accommodation is thin edge of a dangerous wedge.

Port of Airlie may open to public

Meridien, developers of Port of Airlie planned to open the manmade beach to the public in the new year. The $10 million beach next to Whitsunday Sailing Club is created from 60,000 tonnes of white sand and opened when roads connecting the beach to the town are finalised. Port of Airlie hopes to be completedby 2014 with a 240 berth marina, luxury resort, residential apartments, ferry terminal, private marina berth, beachfront lots and stores.

Jetstar to bring more to Cairns

Premier Anna Bligh announced a deal with Jetstar to bring 300,000 extra passengers into Cairns International Airport over the next few years. She anticipated the deal will give a great boost to local economy and create 2000 new jobs. Hotel, Motel and Accommodation Association is all in favour.

Great idea or tempting fate?

A trans-Atlantic cruise is planned for the 100^th anniversary of the sinking of the Titanic on April 9 2012. The memorial voyage will take 1309 passengers (the same as the original) and scheduled to arrive at the tragic site on April 14 with a memorial service planned for 2.20am the next day.

Interest has been strong around the world – a mix of Titanic fans and relatives of those lost at sea. Bon voyage!

Stars of the Queensland Tourism Awards

The Sunshine Coast’s Australia Zoo entered the Tourism Hall of Fame when it was named Queensland’s Major Tourist Attraction for the third consecutive year at the 2009 Queensland Tourism Awards held on the Gold Coast on November 13.

The zoo was one of 28 tourism operators who received top honours at the event. Also entering Queensland’s Tourism Hall of Fame were Rubyvale Gem Gallery near Rockhampton, Tropical North Queensland reef tour operator Passions of Paradise, winner of two tourism awards on the night, and Noorla Heritage Retreat, Townsville. The Discovery Group (Sunshine Coast) took out the Tour &/or Transport Operator award for the second consecutive year, while the Gold Coast Airport Marathon claimed the Major Festivals and Events award; Emporium Hotel, Brisbane won the Luxury Accommodation award and Fantasea's Reefsleep in the Whitsundays the Unique Accommodation award. All Queensland Tourism Award winners will contest the Australian Tourism Awards in February 2010. For a full list of winners and finalists visit www.queenslandtourismawards.com.au  

Beefing up Outback Wetherby Station

John and Kathleen Colless, owners of the 1,618 hectare Wetherby Station in Mount Molloy in Tropical North Queensland, have built a specially-designed arena to cater for visitors hungry to learn about the beef industry.

A working cattle station, Wetherby Station breeds high grade commercial Droughtmaster beef cattle. The station’s show arena is often the first time many tourists have seen cattle up close and offers a glimpse at the modern day beef industry. The history of Wetherby Station dates back to 1878, when it was one of the first properties to be founded in the Mount Molloy. This genuine Outback experience offers guests the opportunity to learn about the property’s history, the Droughtmaster breed and cattle in general. Groups from 10 to 400 can be catered for, with the station offering a magnificent location for a dinner on the lawns or on the homestead verandahs, a casual Australian-style barbeque or a rollicking bush dance. www.wetherbystation.com

Tourism winner – three years in a row!

Fraser Lodge Holiday Park in Hervey Bay was recognised again for excellence in service during the 2009 Fraser Coast & South Burnett Tourism Awards held in late October. Winning for the third year in a row, “ Best Caravan & Tourist Park” Fraser Lodge will be automatically inducted into the Hall Of Fame in 2010. Recognition for the park marks the culmination of a highly successful year after picking up on the same night, the “Access Tourism” award for the second year in a row.

Fraser Lodge spokesperson Alison Suidgeest, in accepting the award congratulated the efforts of the staff saying the award is testament to their dedication, professionalism and skill. Manager of Fraser Lodge Sharon Gebert said in such a competitive industry it is imperative to constantly source ways to improve in product delivery and customer service. She encouraged everyone to participate in the Fraser Coast & South Burnett Awards. Fraser Lodge is managed by FreeSpirit Holiday Parks – a national management company that operate resorts and holiday parks Australia wide. It is set amongt eight acres of sub tropical gardens and the ideal base to explore the Fraser Coast region.

New guide to South East Queensland Country

A new-look SEQC guide aims to entice more visitors to the region where even the trees rug up for winter. It is available from Visitor Information Centres and RACQ outlets.  The free glossy 2009/10 guide has a new layout, expanded events calendar and National Parks section including experiences like freshwater fishing, cycling, horse riding and camping. This region is synonymous with B & Bs, rural retreats, wineries, restaurants and cafes, country pubs, scenic drives and walking opportunities – all of which are featured in the guide.

The beautiful Scenic Rim region of SEQC also takes in the regions around Boonah and Beaudesert where national parks, country pubs, cottages, cabins and farmstays stand under the watchful eye of surrounding mountains.

On your bike for hinterland tour

Bunyip Bike Tours are bringing a touch of Europe to the Gold Coast with the first bike tour of its kind around Tamborine Mountain. Imagine bike riding through vineyards, sampling local wines and enjoying morning tea under a shady tree. Owner Cody Francis guides the bike tours around a 10km circuit of the mountain, with a visit to a local vineyard, picturesque waterfall and to the underground Glow Worm caves. Participants learn about the region’s wine making, and enjoy a tasting direct from the cellar door during their leisurely exploration of some of the Gold Coast’s finest natural wonders. The tour includes morning tea. www.bunyipbiketours.com.au

Kids are welcome in Queensland

Take the guesswork out of family holidays with this new guidebook Kids Welcome To Queensland with answers for parents opting for domestic holidays and short breaks to balance the budget. Mother and author Sarah Pye developed the book to enable parents to choose appropriate experiences for the whole family without wasting time and money. “ The world is one big classroom and I encourage parents to explore it with their kids,” she said. Sarah knows firsthand how challenging travelling with kids can be and she divides the tourism products for three age groups – preschool, primary and teen. Tourism Queensland CEO Anthony Hayes welcomed the guide which he describes as a terrific practical way to help families seek the ideal holiday for them.

Kids Welcome to Queensland comes in colourful A4 size with Hema Maps and will fit into a glovebox or handbag. It’s in no-nonsense conversational style and retails for $29.95 from major bookstores and information centres.

Cartoons made in China

“Well everything else is,” said Kev Rootes formerly of Gympie and now teaching English in China. He is based at the  Zhangjiajie College at Jishou University, Zhangjiajie City in  Hunan Province. “My illustration work is a side business I do and through the power of the internet, can do it anywhere,” he said.  “I did a chicken and pizza colour cartoon for a friend’s “western food and bar” in Korea which is now on delivery scooters whizzing around the country, as well as advertisements for “That’s Beijing” an expat tourist magazine in China.” While studying externally via the internet Kev teaches English in crowded and ill equipped classrooms. “I am in a very poor city, the demographic mostly poor farming families and ethnic minorities speaking a variety of dialects making it hard to communicate,” he said. “It’s remote with freakish weather, famous mountain scenery and high crime rate.”

Kev said only a fraction of western media gets through the censors with issues such as Tibet and Taiwan actively discouraged. “I miss the freedom of travel that Australia allows and am currently craving fish and chips on a beach somewhere; cruising down roads near Biggenden on my old Honda and being able to buy groceries without people shamelessly going through my trolley, curious to see what foreigners eat.” Becoming used to spicy rice and noodles, some delicacies are off limits. “Sliced smoked donkey is popular and it’s somewhat strange trying to have a conversation when your colleagues have half munched pickled chicken feet sticking out of their mouths,’ he said.

Before moving to China, Kev taught science in an international high school in South Korea for four years, where he met his partner Sue.  While alternating between Korea and Australia he worked contracts in the field of hydrological sciences, his latest being in Maryborough with the Environmental Protection Agency.

MotorMania CQ roars into Central Queensland

Central Queensland motor-interest clubs will come together to excite and entertain locals and visitors with existing motorsport organisations in Rockhampton and Gladstone running events throughout 10 days of MotorMania in July next year. Motorsport fans will enjoy the major event at venues including Benaraby Motorsportz Complex, Rockhampton and Gladstone Showgrounds,  Fitzroy Raceway, Pink Lily and Capricorn Resort Yeppoon all revving up to take part. Rockhampton Regional Council has provided support with funding to enable the engagement of event manager, Ellie Traynor.

The program will feature the QRC Rally, karting, motocross, a specialist swap and car boot sale, youth driver training, drags, a burnout contest, trade fair, bitumen street sprint, a show and shine and supercruise. With the involvement of some of Central Queensland’s popular motorsporting clubs and venues, the event will delight everyone from the motoring devotee to the novice.

Winton’s 2010 Outback Art Show

New name and new theme for Winton’s Outback Regional Gallery competition next year is the Woollam Waltzing Matilda Outback Art Show with the theme Outback Perspective. The national profile of the annual competition has grown enormously since 1995 with prize money now $12,500 with outstanding entries from country and city artists from all over Australia.  Entries for pre-selection close on February 26 with winners announced on May 14.  Entries which must be for sale will be exhibited at the Regional Gallery within the Waltzing Matilda Centre from May 10 to July 16.

Gallery Co-ordinator Jan Brown said support was stronger than ever and welcomed the involvement of construction company Woollam Constructions which built Brisbane’s Breakfast Creek Hotel and Longreach Stockmans Hall Of Fame. International artist Shirley Charlton will be judge for 2010. She is well known for her ability to capture the essence of the harsh Australian landscape with works in galleries such as Britain, South Africa and USA. Shirley will hold a two-day workshop in Winton on May 15 and 16.

For information and conditions of entry visit www.matildacentre.com.au or phone Jan Brown 4657 3906.

QME expects another sell-out

Well on track to being sold out by early 2010 is the Queensland Mining and Engineering Exhibition held in Mackay July 27 – 29. Mackay-based suppliers have signed up expressing confidence in the strength of recovery in the region. Exhibition Manager with organiser Reed Exhibitions, Soren Norgaard said the event is doing extremely well even this far out. “We’re tracking very well compared with QME 2008 and that was a record show in terms of exhibitor numbers and visitors,” he said.

“We are getting plenty of interest from local suppliers with comments they can see a definite pickup in activity and order levels.”

Best Tractor Parts of Mackay has been a regular exhibitor since 2000 with two main areas of business – genuine and non-genuine parts for all major brands of mining equipment plus a hire fleet with more than 35 pieces. Managing Director Greg Murphy said the timing of QME next July will be ideal for them. Another local business in NQ Cranes which designs and manufactures overhead travelling cranes, crane rail systems and jib cranes for industry throughout the state. Sales Manager Michael McGrath said a new crane range will be launched at the QME and sees the event as being very important.

For exhibitor and visitor information contact This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it - phone 02 9422 2563.

Are you ready to roll in the aisles?

It’s back, it’s bigger and it’s even bloody funnier! After the inaugural season proved Brisbane was gagging for its own festival the Brisbane Comedy Festival takes over Powerhouse from February 23 to March 21 bringing you more crazy international and Australian talent that your laughing gear will know what to do with.

There’ll be comedians crammed into every single space in Brisbane you can find and not just the theatres. You’ll be roaring with laughter in the Rooftop Terrace, ticked pink on the Turbine Platform and giggling in every corner.Aussie favourites are Adams Hills, Will Anderson, Peter Helliar, Josh Thomas and Irish wild-boy Jason Byrne.

2010 brings on fantastic ticket deals that even if you’re broke you can have a laugh to take your mind off it. Available through Box Office on 3358 8600 or online at brisbanepowerhouse.org

Central Queensland’s bid to join NRL

The bid to join the NRL was launched in the Isaac Region following similar regional launches in Mackay, Emerald, Gladstone and Bundaberg.CQ NRL Bid Chairman, Geoff Murphy said it was great to be in the Isaac region, an area noted for its huge contribution to regional, state and national economies as well as true rugby league heartland.

Super-luxury at Peppers Spicers Peak

Two new luxorious private lodges have opened at Peppers Spicers Peak; an exclusive property situated a two hour drive south-west of Brisbane.

Guests staying at the new lodges enjoy a private and secluded getaway with full use of the main lodge facilities. Constructed in the same modern, classic style of the main lodge, they are situated on an escarpment with expansive valley and Spicers Gap vistas. Creature comforts include private outdoor heated spas, wood fuelled fires, large plasma TVs with DVD, luxury linens, day beds, rainwater showers with full-height views, iPod docking stations, stylish duvets, leather chairs, bespoke furniture, ducted air conditioning and kitchenettes with coffee and ice making machines. Guests can elect to have gourmet breakfast baskets and picnic hampers delivered to their door or they can dine at the main lodge. Exclusive Private Lodge packages are available from $1590 per night for two people staying in the one bedroom lodge and $1890 per night for four people staying in the two bedroom lodge. Peppers Spicers Peak Lodge is located 90 minutes south west of Brisbane and two hours from the Gold Coast.www.spicerspeaklodge.com.au

Love me, love my dog

Pet –friendly holiday destinations are in greater demand, according to research from Tourism Australia with the number of mature-aged travellers increasing at a much greater rate than younger people.Susie Chaseling from Pet Information Advisory Service re-inforced the knowledge that older people’s health, both physical and emotional can benefit greatly by the company of a pet.During road trips, it was found older people wanted to incorporate a healthy active lifestyle, including playing golf and exercising, a large part of which was continuing to walk their dog. (Over 53% of Australian households have either a cat or dog).Ms Chaseling said some pets can adapt surprisingly well to travel and options in the tourism accommodation industry are recognising the need to cater for those wanting to take their much-loved pets on holiday with them

For further information and advice regarding travelling with your pet, visit www.petsplayground.com.au; www.drkatrina.com.au; www.i-pet.com.au

A progressive dinner in Port

A new progressive dining tour is tantalising the taste buds of visitors to Tropical North Queensland.

Taste Port Douglas tours begin at Port Douglas' iconic Courthouse Hotel where guests receive a welcome drink and meet their guide for the evening ahead. The group then departs on a guided progressive dinner walking tour to three of Port Douglas’ award-winning restaurants such as Bistro 3, Salsa, Harrison’s, Zinc, 2 Fish, Finz, Clements and Zeus. Strolling between the restaurants, hosts Monique Leman and Corrine Durie tell guests tales of Port’s heritage, a rolling history of venues and just enough local gossip to pique your appetite! Taste Port Douglas progressive dinner tours start at $149 per person and are available Wednesday through Sunday. Lunch tours are on offer from Wednesday to Friday, with prices starting at $89 a head including all meals, wine, breads, coffee and tea. Other tours include ‘Taste of Sea’, which includes an evening on Sailaway IV before dinner, and ‘Taste of Indulgence’ which includes transfers, lunch and spa treatment at Silky Oaks Lodge & Healing Waters Spa. www.tasteofaustralia.com.au

New City to Straddie Tour

A new tour of Brisbane’s coastal Redlands region combines the natural beauty of North Stradbroke Island (“Straddie”) with a visit to Australia’s first environmental centre for indigenous plants.

The City to Straddie Tour includes a half day Straddie Kingfisher Tour including Brown Lake, pippy digging on Main Beach, the Gorge Walk, beach fishing and a barbecue lunch on Flinders Beach. The tour then returns to the mainland for a Bush Tucker Tour through the themed native botanical gardens at Redlands IndigiScapes Centre and afternoon tea in the open air Tea Gardens Café. The tour runs from 7.15am to 5.30pm and includes pick-up and drop-off from hotels in the Brisbane CBD, morning and afternoon tea, a barbecue lunch and ferry transfers. www.straddiekingfishertours.com.au  

Retreat to Pumpkin Island

The newly-renovated Pumpkin Island Retreat is home to just eco-friendly five cottages, which each feature stunning beach and ocean views.

At just 6.1 hectares (450 metres in length and 150 metres at its widest point), the island offers a secluded and eco-friendly escape on the Great Barrier Reef. The five cottages are now wholly powered by wind and solar energy, making the retreat an advanced ecotourism operator with a strong commitment to its fragile reef environment. Guest activities include fishing, snorkelling and swimming in the island’s picturesque beaches and bays, which can be discovered aboard the retreat’s paddleboats or glass bottomed kayaks. A maximum of just 30 guests can stay on the island, with each individually-designed cottage featuring a fully-equipped modern kitchen and private deck with stunning views. Access to the retreat is via a 45 minute boat transfer from the Keppel Bay Marina near Rockhampton in Central Queensland. www.pumpkinisland.com.au

Turtles on their way to Bundaberg

A new ‘Turtle Trail’ has opened just in time for the annual turtle breeding season in Bundaberg, which begins this month.

 Mon Repos is a small beach near Bundaberg, and every year from November to March it hosts hundreds of nesting and hatching turtles, and almost as many visitors who come to witness this natural miracle. This year, a new walking trail – the aptly named ‘Turtle Trail’ – means visitors can walk to Mon Repos from nearby beaches at Burnett Heads or Bargara via a scenic coastal path. Access to Mon Repos beach is restricted during the turtle season so the best way to see these endangered animals up close is on a nightly guided tour from the Mon Repos Visitors Centre. Turtles coming ashore to nest occurs from November to February, while visitors from January until late March will see the baby hatchlings burst from the sand and make the dash down to the sea. French for ‘my rest’, Mon Repos has the largest concentration of nesting marine turtles on the eastern Australian mainland and is one of the two largest Loggerhead turtle rookeries in the South Pacific Ocean. Bookings are essential for the Mon Repos turtle experience and tickets can be purchased at the Bundaberg Region Visitor Information Centre, by calling (07) 4153 8888 or visiting www.bookbundabergregion.com.au. 

Ready to Rumba on the Sunshine Coast

Caloundra’s Bulcock Beach on the southern Sunshine Coast has completed a multi-million-dollar makeover in time for the holidays, and the recently opened five-star Rumba Beach Resort & Spa is arguably the centrepiece.

 Overlooking the northern tip of Bribie Island and Pumicestone Passage with the dramatic Glasshouse Mountains as a backdrop, Bulcock Beach combines a seaside promenade, boardwalk, parklands, and landscaped gardens with stunning resorts and alfresco dining. Known as “The Waterfront - Caloundra’s Boardwalk”, the precinct includes nearly a dozen choices to tempt the palate including English-style pub and restaurant The Penefathings Inn, Italian restaurant La Dolce Vita, Hog’s Breath Cafe and The Coffee Club Cafe Bar Restaurant. And for popular dining favourites Tides Waterfront Dining, Mooo Char + Bar and Wung Nam Thai Water Palace their scenic outlook is now better than ever. Located directly opposite the white sands and tranquil waters of Bulcock Beach, Rumba Beach Resort & Spa enjoys one of the most desirable positions in all of the Sunshine Coast. The stylish resort combines luxury accommodation in a range of one, two and three bedroom fully-serviced Resort Suites, Penthouses and Ocean Apartments with facilities including a pool bar, giant jacuzzi, heated lap pool and soon to open day spa. www.caloundratourism.com.au 

A Great Day Out on Great Keppel Island

A new day trip to Great Keppel Island is enticing visitors back to this pristine island near Rockhampton in Central Queensland.

For just $77 per person, the ‘Great Keppel Island Great Day Out’ package includes return ferry transfers from the mainland (Pier One, Rosslyn Bay), tea and coffee on arrival, a thrilling tube ride along Fisherman’s Beach and free use of snorkel gear and fins, kayaks, catamarans, sun suits and life jackets. Situated just 30 minutes by boat from the mainland, Great Keppel Island is situated on the southern end of the Great Barrier Reef and is renowned for its 17 beautiful beaches and fantastic bushwalking opportunities. Snorkel, scuba dive, swim and paddle in the safe beaches, relax on the sand, or enjoy a walk to the lookout for fantastic views of the other 13 islands in the Keppel Bay group. Lunch can be purchased at Island Pizza or at the Keppel Haven Bar and Bistro and you can also choose to add an overnight stay at the Great Keppel Island Holiday Village just behind the sand dunes amongst the gum trees. http://www.gkiholidayvillage.com.au

Novotel takes flight at Brisbane Airport

The hotel can be accessed via road or AirTrain utilising a complimentary bus transfer loop running between the domestic and international terminals and hotel. It is opposite the Airport Village Complex and a short walk from the DFO retail hub which houses over 120 leading Australian and international brands. The four-and-a-half star property offers accommodation in 157 rooms located over six levels. It includes conference facilities, a restaurant and bar, gymnasium, sauna and rooftop lap pool. A ‘web corner’ in the lobby is designed to allow guests to access the internet to print out boarding passes prior to departure. www.novotel.com  

Hang ten at first surfing museum

Queensland’s first surfing museum has opened at the southern end of the Gold Coast between two famous surfing beaches, Kirra and Burleigh.

SurfWorld Gold Coast at Currumbin celebrates the history and contribution of surfing and beach culture to Australia and the Gold Coast. There are more than 100 surfboards on display illustrating the evolution of surfboard design and technology from the 1930s through to modern day. An extensive collection of photographs, posters and other surfing memorabilia also take guests on a surfing journey over the years.

The museum is located opposite Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary and is open daily from 10am to 4pm. Entry is $9 adults, $5 children and $25 families.

Enjoy National Parks on bicycle, or horseback

Cycling is a great way to see natural areas while improving your health through exercise. From easy flat cruises to challenging mountainous country you will find a wealth of experiences in our parks and forests.

Perhaps you choose to loosen your reins and go horse riding. Today it is one of the most relaxing and enjoyable ways to visit our natural environment.
QPW offers the following guidelines:

Obtain a permit – always required to ride your horse in State Forests and reserves  In most forests a permit is also required to ride your bicycle. In others, signs show where it is permitted.

Ride safely - Horse riders are encouraged to wear a helmet and cyclists must wear one. Be careful and courteous towards other trail users. Horses, cyclists, motor vehicles and walks often share the same trail.

Please follow this give-way code – motor vehicles give way to unmotorised users;  cyclists give way to horses and walkers;  walkers give way to horses.

Ride softly - Stay on formed tracks and roads to avoid damaging vegetation. Stop weeds spreading; clean your bike or horse, shoes and socks after your ride. Minimise erosion. Avoid skidding tyres, or riding your bike or horse when tracks are wet.

For information on where you can ride your bike or horse visit www.epa.qld.gov.au

Gladstone’s guided industry tours

The Boyne Smelter is Australia’s largest alumina smelter producing more than 510,000 tonnes per year and one of the world’s most technologically advanced smelters Free tours are conducted each Friday for a duration of three hours with bookings essential. But there’s more.

Leaving from the Gladstone Information Centre tour groups can explore the inner workings of the remarkable industry giants of Gladstone.

They include Queensland Alumina Limited, (World’s largest alumina refinery) Gladstone Port Corporation,( Queensland’s largest multi-commodity port)  NRG Gladstone Power Station, (Queensland’s largest)Rio Tinto Alcan Yarwun and Boyne Smelters Ltd (Combined tour) and Toondoon Botanic Gardens (104 hectares of forest, lake, walking tracks and botanical displays)

Tours are not conducted on public holidays, weekends or during the Christmas/New Year period. Safety requirements and guidelines are explained at the beginning of each tour.

For further information and for bookings phone Gladstone Information Centre 4972 9000.