Brisbane, Australia's third largest city and capital of Queensland is a sub-tropical vibrant metropolitan city with an alfresco lifestyle. Amidst the skyscrapers sits an open-air city that embraces the river at its heart and many dining and entertainment precincts along the banks. Wander through the galleries at South Bank, explore the eclectic streets of Fortitude Valley or take a day cruise to the aquatic playground of Moreton Island.
The Tropical North region is home to some of the greatest environmental wonders of the world, the Great Barrier Reef (UNESCO), including the Whitsunday Islands — an archipelago of green islands and sandy atolls surrounded by tropical blue waters; the world's oldest rainforest — world heritage listed Daintree Rainforest and the tropical city of Cairns serving as an International gateway point.
To the south, the Gold Coast is re-known for its 70 kilometres of surf beaches, famous theme parks, shopping, a booming culinary scene and nightlife. Be sure to leave enough time for a trip to the subtropical hinterland for rainforest walks and waterfalls — an ideal adventure for families.
World Heritage listed Fraser Island is just 300kms north of Brisbane and a short catamaran cruise from Hervey Bay. The world's largest sand island stretching over 123kms long and 22kms wide, with a total area of 184000 hectares is home to native wildlife including dingoes and goannas. Join a local guide on a 4WD tour of the island and experience the natural attractions — ancient rainforests growing out of sand, freshwater lakes, spectacular sand formations and watering holes where you can cool off along the way. With pristine stretches of golden sand to ancient rainforests, this exceptional island will leave you with unforgettable memories.