TOURS & RAIL JOURNEYS

Transcription

1 AUSTRALIA 209

2 Esperance Signature Journeys is an Australian owned and operated group travel company that has been delivering exceptional touring holidays across the globe since 999. Our 209 Australia touring portfolio is our best yet! We are proud to partner with the award-winning AAT Kings for our land touring, a leader in service and excellence for delivering Australian touring programs. These firstclass itineraries will assure your Australian holiday is exceptional As valued guests of Signature Journeys, we are delighted to offer you four itineraries that showcase the very best of Australia. Our two smaller journeys are perfect for those with a shorter amount of time, choose to explore the stunning natural state that is Tasmania, or take a scenic coastal drive along The Great Ocean Road together with a visit to Kangaroo Island. Our final two itineraries are perfect for those that wish to immerse themselves in this great land and journey for longer. Take an Outback Adventure where you can absorb our spiritual heartland travelling between Adelaide and Darwin. Or discover Western Australia, with a departure that coincides with the largest floral show on earth. Be amazed at the vibrant carpets, unique flower wreaths, Kangaroo Paws and delicate rare orchids that are in abundance. For those wishing to enhance their holiday with added luxury, we have teamed up with Great Southern Rail and are excited to offer The Ghan Expedition rail journey to return you from Darwin to Adelaide in Gold Service style. Coinciding with The Ghan s 90th Birthday this departure is sure to be a sell out! Or why not arrive into Perth from Sydney in style on the famous Indian Pacific. One of the few true transcontinental trains in the world, travel along the world s longest stretch of straight rail track over the expanse that is the Nullarbor Plain! With a passion to design unrivalled touring holidays that deliver memories you ll recall fondly for years to come, we invite you to peruse our 209 Australian touring range and look forward to welcoming you aboard one of our first-class touring programs soon. 2

3 Darwin Litchfield National Park Katherine Gorge Jabiru Kakadu National Park Daly Waters NORTHERN TERRITORY Tennant Creek Kings Canyon Uluru Alice Springs QUEENSLAND WESTERN AUSTRALIA Monkey Mia Geraldton The Pinnacles Perth Fremantle Kalbarri Margaret River Wave Rock Stirling Ranges National Park Smithton Esperance Nullarbor Plain (Rawlinna) Kalgoorlie Cape Le Grand National Park Manguri SOUTH AUSTRALIA Coober Pedy Port Augusta Flinders Ranges Broken Hill The Barossa Valley Adelaide Kangaroo Naracoorte Island VICTORIA Melbourne Warrnambool NEW SOUTH WALES Sydney Cradle Mountain Launceston TASMANIA Bicheno Great Ocean Road TASMANIA Strahan Russell Falls Hobart Freycinet National Park Port Arthur TOURS & RAIL JOURNEYS Duration Destinations Tour/Rail Page 0 Days Tasmanian Wonders Tour 4 7 Days Great Ocean Road & Kangaroo Island Tour 6 5 Days Outback Adventure Tour 8 5 Days The Ghan Expedition Rail 0 6 Days Western Wonderland Tour 2 4 Days The Indian Pacific Rail 4 3

4 Tasmanian Wonders 0 Days Departs 27 February, 209 Smithton The Tarkine Strahan Gordon River Cruise The Nut, Stanley Cradle Mountain Coach Burnie Tullah Rosebery No. of Nights Stay Queenstown Russell Falls Included Experiences Cruise Devonport Sheffield 2 Launceston TASMANIA Hobart Bridestowe 2 St. Helens Bicheno Ross Isle of the Dead Cruise Freycinet National Park Eaglehawk a l Neck Port Arthur Hobart DAY : Welcome to Hobart Upon arrival you will be transferred to your hotel where your Tasmanian Wonders journey begins with an afternoon sightseeing tour of Hobart. Your orientation takes in historic Battery Point, Salamanca Place, the extensive Botanic Gardens, Constitution Dock, and towering Mt. Nelson, which affords panoramic views over Australia s southernmost city. Enjoy the company of your Travel Director and fellow travellers this evening at a Welcome Reception and Dinner. Hotel: Wrest Point, Hobart ( night) SD DAY 2: Hobart Strahan This morning you ll head west to New Norfolk and magnificent Mt. Field National Park. Take a walk through lush rainforest to the famous picturesque Russell Falls. Then take the scenic drive up to iconic Lake St. Clair, the deepest freshwater lake in Australia, and continue through the rainforest to the delightful coastal town of Strahan. Nestled on the shores of massive Macquarie Harbour, Strahan is the gateway to the World Heritage listed Franklin- Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. Hotel: Strahan Village, Strahan ( night) DAY 3: Strahan Cradle Mountain A highlight today is your lunch cruise on the spectacular Gordon River. You ll be awestruck by the beauty of the dark waters, stained amber by buttongrass tannins, they reflect the untouched wilderness that surrounds them. Stop at Sarah Island for an insight into a relic of Tasmania s lesser-known convict history. See Hells Gates, the notoriously treacherous entrance to the harbour; and Heritage Landing, site of a 2,000-year-old Huon Pine. Travel through the old towns of Rosebery and Tullah as you make your way to your hotel. Hotel: Cradle Mountain Hotel ( night) B.L.D DAY 4: Cradle Mountain Smithton This morning, marvel at the inspiring beauty of Cradle Mountain National Park. Join your Travel Director for a guided walk by Dove Lake, where you may spot Bennetts wallabies, echidnas and pademelons grazing along the way. Travel on through rolling green hills to Table Cape for spectacular views of Bass Strait. Picturesque Stanley is in your sights as you head west. Enjoy views of the sheer-sided Stanley bluff known as The Nut and take some time to explore. Your final destination today is Smithton. Hotel: Tall Timbers, Smithton ( night) DAY 5: Smithton Launceston Today, enjoy a tour with your local guide of the magnificent Tarkine Wilderness region. One of Australia s largest temperate rainforests, it boasts vast stands of myrtle, leatherwood and pine trees. En route to Launceston you ll visit the award-winning Ashgrove Tasmanian Farm to learn about its dairy production methods and taste some local delicacies. Hotel: Best Western Plus, Launceston (2 nights) B DAY 6: Launceston This morning travel through the rolling hills of the Tamar Valley to the Beaconsfield Mine and Heritage Centre. Your local expert will bring to life the mine s extraordinary past, including the dramatic events of the 2006 rock fall and mine rescue. After taking time to discover Cataract Gorge, this afternoon is at leisure for your own exploration of Tasmania s northern capital, Launceston. B DAY 7: Launceston Bicheno Bridestowe Lavender Estate, producer of highquality lavender since 922, is your first stop today. Later, visit the unique Legerwood Carved Memorial Trees site, and then follow the picturesque east coast south to Bicheno. This evening you might like to take an optional tour to see either Bicheno s wild penguins as they emerge from the ocean for the night or the iconic Tasmanian Devil (additional cost). Hotel: Best Western Beachfront at Bicheno ( night) DAY 8: Bicheno Hobart Today, experience the grandeur of Freycinet National Park, taking a guided walk to the 4

5 Freycinet National Park Lavender Fields Cradle Mountain lookout at Cape Tourville that will unveil your leisure. On the drive back to Hobart, verdant forest and golden beaches. Then travel the craggy Tasman Arch, the Devil s Kitchen 209 DEPARTURE FROM your Travel Director and fellow travellers at Feb 27 Mar 08 $325 Single Supplement $775 astonishing views across brilliant blue water, through Swansea and Orford on your way to Hobart. Hotel: Wrest Point, Hobart (2 nights) B DAY 9: Port Arthur see the amazing natural rock formations of and the Blowhole. This evening, mingle with a Farewell Dinner in one of Hobart s popular restaurants. B.SD Explore the Port Arthur Historic Site, taking DAY 0: Farewell from Hobart fascinating guided walk of the remains of your holiday comes to an end this morning a cruise around the Isle of the Dead and a Port Arthur s infamous convict prison. There will be time for you to wander the site at 0 DAYS HOBART TO HOBART All prices are land only per person twin share. Say farewell to your fellow travellers when Tour is based on minimum 20 passengers. For full after breakfast. Transfer to the airport for your (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner (SD) Special Dinner onward journey. B terms and conditions see back cover. Port Arthur 5

6 Great Ocean Road & Kangaroo Island 7 Days Departs 6 March, 209 SOUTH AUSTRALIA The Barossa Valley Remarkable Rocks 2 Adelaide NEW SOUTH WALES Kangaroo Island 2 Naracoorte Mt Gambier VICTORIA Lorne Melbourne Tower Hill Warrnambool Great Ocean Road Coach Ferry No. of Nights Stay Included Experiences TASMANIA As this journey departs at 07:30am from Crowne Plaza Melbourne, accommodation may need to be pre-booked for the previous night at an additional coast. Enquire for details. DAY : Melbourne Warnambool Welcome! Today you will set off on your Great Ocean Road adventure and experience one of the world s most scenic coastal drives. Stop at quaint seaside towns, and marvel at the Twelve Apostles. Learn the heartbreaking history of Loch Ard Gorge, and visit the London Bridge rock formation, now often called the London Arch due to its dramatic collapse in 990. From here you will continue onto Warrnambool, a vibrant, modern city with the atmosphere and charm of a relaxed country town. Hotel: Quality Suites Deep Blue Hotel & Spa, Warrnambool ( night) DAY 2: Warrnambool Naracoorte This morning, experience indigenous culture at Worn Gundidj Aboriginal Co-operative based within Tower Hill State Game Reserve. A major natural landmark, Tower Hill is a volcanic formation and in recognition of its unique features, also became Victoria s first National Park. Crossing the border into South Australia a stop is made at Mt. Gambier to see the mysterious Blue Lake before continuing to the Coonawarra wine region, to pause at a vineyard for a tasting. Before arriving in Naracoorte you will tour the spectacular Alexandra Cave where you will be amazed at the formations found within. Hotel: William MacIntosh Motor Lodge, Naracoorte ( night) DAY 3: Naracoorte Kangaroo Island Today, journey to the Fleurieu Peninsula and take in the breathtaking scenery before visiting the charming seaside town of Victor Harbour. Later, a ferry takes you to Kangaroo Island, Australia s third-largest island famed for its natural beauty. With an abundance of native bushland, wildlife and fine local produce this island holds something for everyone. Kick off your adventure with a visit to South Australia s only boutique distillery to taste a selection of their handcrafted premium spirits. Enjoy Vodka, Liqueurs and their award winning Gins. Your base for your two night Kangaroo Island discovery is Kingscote, South Australia s oldest European settlement. Hotel: Aurora Ozone Hotel, Kingscote (2 nights) DAY 4: Kangaroo Island No visit to Kangaroo Island is complete without visiting two of the islands signature landmarks, the Remarkable Rocks and Admirals Arch. Both located in Flinders Chase National Park a protected area of rugged wilderness and stunning coastal scenery. In Vivonne Bay, one of Australia s best beaches, you will enjoy a delicious Be My Guest lunch, before you experience an in flight birds of prey display. Then join a ranger at Seal Bay Conservation Park for a walk among a colony of rare sea lions. B.SL DAY 5: Kangaroo Island Adelaide This morning you depart Kangaroo Island by ferry and continue to South Australia s cosmopolitan coastal capital, Adelaide, for a city sights tour. This afternoon you may like to choose from a selection of included sightseeing experiences. Visit Adelaide Zoo, join a local guide on an Adelaide walking tour or visit the renowned Art Gallery of South Australia. Hotel: Stamford Plaza, Adelaide (2 nights) B DAY 6: The Barossa Today discover the rolling Adelaide Hills, part of the Mount Lofty Ranges as you continue to the world famous Barossa Valley. Your first stop is the small town of Hahndorf which is famed for its original German style architecture and artisanal food. Continue into the Barossa 6

7 Barossa Valley Twelve Apostles for lunch at The Company Kitchen before visiting Jacob s Creek Winery for tastings. This evening you will join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a beautiful Farewell Dinner. B.L.SD DAY 7: Farewell from Adelaide 7 DAYS MELBOURNE TO ADELAIDE 209 DEPARTURE FROM Mar 6 Mar 22 $2625 Single Supplement $660 Your holiday comes to an end this morning after breakfast. Enjoy a private transfer to the airport for your onward journey. B Seal Bay PRE TOUR ACCOMMODATION ROOM TYPE FROM Twin $300 Single $270 All prices are land only per person twin share. Accommodation price is per room inclusive of breakfast. Tour is based on minimum 20 passengers. For full terms and conditions see back cover. (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (SL) Special Lunch (D) Dinner (SD) Special Dinner Vivonne Bay 7

8 Outback Adventure 5 Days Departs 23 July, Coach WESTERN AUSTRALIA No. of Nights Stay Included Experiences The Ghan Darwin Litchfield National Park 3 Kings Canyon Uluru NORTHERN TERRITORY SOUTH AUSTRALIA Jabiru Katherine Gorge Mataranka 2 Woomera Daly Waters Kakadu National Park Tennant Creek Karlu Karlu 2 Alice Springs Port Augusta Coober Pedy QUEENSLAND Flinders Ranges Clare Valley Adelaide NEW SOUTH WALES VICTORIA Uluru at Sunset DAY : Welcome to Adelaide On arrival today you will be transferred to your hotel, explore the major sights of the City of Churches. Later, join a local food expert for a guided tour of the vibrant Adelaide Central Market. Relax this evening with your Travel Director and fellow travellers at a Welcome Reception and dinner at La Boca Bar and Grill. Hotel: Stamford Plaza, Adelaide ( night) SD DAY 2: Flinders Ranges - Wilpena Pound Today travel to the rolling hills of the charmingly secluded Clare Valley for winetasting with a local food expert at Sevenhill Cellars, the region s oldest existing winery. Later, travel through the magnificent Flinders Ranges to Wilpena Pound, a remarkable natural amphitheatre covering nearly 8,000 hectares. Hotel: Wilpena Pound Resort, Flinders Ranges ( night) DAY 3: Wilpena Pound Port Augusta Take a walk with your Travel Director this morning to the faithfully-restored Hills Homestead and Wangarra Lookout, which affords panoramic views over Wilpena Pound. Journey through Pichi Richi Pass and the historic town of Quorn, known for its beautiful historic railway station. Your final destination today is Port Augusta, a natural harbour on the Spencer Gulf. Visit Wadlata Outback Centre before dinner at a local restaurant. Hotel: Majestic Oasis Apartments, Port Augusta ( night) DAY 4: Woomera Coober Pedy Today visit Woomera, an isolated experimental ground used for testing rockets throughout the 950s and 960s. Then travel through saltlake country to isolated Coober Pedy, regarded by many as the opal capital of the world because of the quantity of precious opals mined there. Coober Pedy is world renowned for its underground residences, called dugouts, which are built in this fashion due to the extreme daytime summer temperatures. View an opal demonstration with a local expert, who ll then lead you through some of the town s iconic underground buildings, including a church and a private residence. Hotel: Desert Cave Hotel, Coober Pedy ( night) DAY 5: Coober Pedy Uluru Cross the border into the Northern Territory today and continue to dual World Heritage listed Uluru Kata Tjuta National Park. Uluru (also known as Ayers Rock) is sacred to the local indigenous inhabitants and is thought to have begun forming around 550 million years ago. Sparkling wine is served this evening as you watch the sun set at Australia s most renowned natural landmark and witness the spectacular phenomenon of the changing colours of the massive sandstone monolith. Hotel: Desert Gardens Hotel, Ayers Rock Resort (2 nights) B DAY 6: Uluru Sunrise Kata Tjuta Rise early this morning to experience a majestic Red Centre sunrise. After a tour of the base of Uluru, you may like to take either a self-guided stroll around its eleven kilometre perimeter, or a guided walk to Mutitjulu Waterhole. Your Travel Director will explain the significance of the ancient Aboriginal rock paintings you ll encounter, and you ll also learn about the area s flora and fauna and the culture of its traditional owners, the Anangu people. This afternoon s journey takes you to superb Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), thirty-six magnificent domes of red-hued sedimentary rock. The domes are thought to have originally been one huge piece of rock, much like Uluru, that has weathered over millions of years to an intriguing series of individual formations. B DAY 7: Uluru Kings Canyon Leave Ayers Rock this morning to travel through a stark red desert landscape to aweinspiring Kings Canyon. Stop for a lunch break at Kings Creek Station. Originally vacant crown land, the station now runs cattle and is the largest exporter of wild camels in Australia. Learn the intriguing story of owners, Ian and Lynn Conway, and their dedication to Aboriginal children in the region s remote communities. Continue to Kings Canyon, a deep, narrow valley cut into the Earth over millennia by running water. Its ancient red rock walls soar 00 metres above Kings Creek to a plateau of rocky domes. Considered one of the best and most varied walks in central Australia, the six kilometre walk around the rim of the canyon will reward you with marvellous views of Watarrka National Park. A shorter, more relaxed walk takes you along the sandy creek bed. Hotel: Kings Canyon Resort ( night) DAY 8: Kings Canyon Alice Springs Travelling past seemingly deserted cattle properties, you ll develop a true appreciation for the enormous magnitude of the Australian Outback. On arrival in Alice Springs, visit the historic Telegraph Station, established in 872 to relay messages between Darwin and Adelaide. It s the original site of the first European settlement in central Australia, and was one of twelve stations along the Overland Telegraph Line, which revolutionised 8

9 Litchfield National Park Devils Marbles White Heron communications. Then drive to Anzac Hill for panoramic views over The Alice. Hotel: Mercure Alice Springs Resort (2 nights) B DAY 9: Alice Springs After breakfast this morning, join a local Aboriginal guide at Alice Springs Desert Park to learn about the culture and traditions of the local Arrernte people. Gain an insight into the endangered animals of the Red Centre, then visit the headquarters of the Royal Flying Doctor Service. See how this iconic facility has provided emergency medical assistance to those living in remote Outback Australia since 928. This evening, join the Falzon family at Earth Sanctuary World Nature Centre for a Be My Guest home-cooked barbecue dinner. Afterwards, hear from the Falzon brothers, Tom and Danny, about the sustainable lifestyle they have established. B.SD DAY 0: Alice Springs Tennant Creek Before leaving Alice Springs this morning, visit the School of the Air to learn how children living in the vast Outback receive their education via radio and internet technology. Then travel north, stopping to visit Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles), an intriguing series of precariously-balanced granite boulders. Later, settle into your accommodation in the former gold-mining town of Tennant Creek. Hotel: Bluestone Motor Inn, Tennant Creek ( night) DAY : Tennant Creek Katherine Today you ll travel further north, visiting the quirky Daly Waters Pub at lunchtime. Continue to Mataranka, where you can visit a replica of the original Elsey Homestead used in the filming of the Australian classic We of the Never Never. A swim in the crystal clear warm waters of Mataranka thermal springs under the dappled light of the paperbark and palm forest is a must do for visitors. Journey on to Katherine for the night. Hotel: Paraway Motel, Katherine ( night) DAY 2: Katherine Kakadu This morning, travel to Nitmiluk National Park, where a tranquil cruise through the spectacular Katherine Gorge will allow you to sense the spirituality of the land while you catch glimpses of the abundant wildlife and learn about the traditional owners, the Jawoyn people. Then journey deep into Kakadu for a cruise on the famous Yellow Water Billabong, famed for its stunning variety of birdlife and estuarine crocodiles. Hotel: Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, Jabiru ( night) DAY 3: Kakadu Darwin Visit Ubirr, one of Kakadu s renowned Aboriginal rock-art sites. Walk to nearby Nadab Lookout, which affords magnificent views over the surrounding wetlands and escarpments. This afternoon in Darwin, choose from a range of included sightseeing experiences. Visit the colourful Mindil Beach Sunset Market where we ll treat you to dinner, visit Crocosaurus Cove, or perhaps sit back and relax under the stars at Darwin s famous Deckchair Cinema. Hotel: Mantra on the Esplanade, Darwin (2 nights) B DAY 4: Litchfield National Park Travel to Litchfield National Park today, pausing to examine the amazing termite mounds that are aligned north to south to minimise exposure to the sun. Stop to view Florence Falls, a double-plunge waterfall leading to a popular swimming hole. Venture on to Wangi Falls for an opportunity to swim in the large waterhole before heading back to Darwin. This evening, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Darwin Harbour Cruise Farewell Dinner. B.SD DAY 5: Farewell from Darwin Say farewell to your fellow travellers when your holiday comes to an end this morning after breakfast. You will then be transferred to the airport for your onward flight. Join the Ghan Expedition to return you to Adelaide. Full details on pages 0-5 DAYS ADELAIDE TO DARWIN 209 DEPARTURE FROM Jul 23 Aug 06 $5975 Single Supplement $795 Add an extra night in Darwin to link to The Ghan rail journey and return to Adelaide in all-inclusive Gold Service style from $3945 per person in a twin share cabin, or $390 in a single cabin. SEE PAGES 0- All prices are land only per person twin share. Tour is based on minimum 20 passengers. Flights to arrive prior to 2.30pm into Adelaide Airport on Day. Flights to depart anytime from Darwin Airport on last day. For full terms and conditions see back cover. (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner (SD) Special Dinner 9

10 The Ghan A momentous rail journey from Darwin to Adelaide at the end of your Outback Adventure Holiday. Experience the vast Australian Outback on board The Ghan in her 90th Birthday year. Travel through the heart of Australia in all-inclusive comfort and fall in love with the diverse dramatic landscapes. From the tropical far north, to the Red Centre and the rolling hills of Adelaide, you will experience it all in Gold Service luxury. 0

11 The Ghan Expedition 5 Days Departs 06 August, 209 Darwin The Ghan Katherine 3 NORTHERN TERRITORY Alice Springs QUEENSLAND WESTERN AUSTRALIA Manguri Coober Pedy SOUTH AUSTRALIA NEW SOUTH WALES 3 Coach No. of Nights Stay Included Experiences The Ghan Adelaide VICTORIA Experience The Ghan Expedition from Darwin to Adelaide at the end of your Outback Adventure tour. See pages 8 and 9 for touring itinerary. Accommodation in Darwin on 6th August and transfer to train station (7th August) is included in the costing for this add-on. The Ghan departs Darwin on the 7th August. DAY : Darwin Your day is at leisure in Darwin. Spend the day relaxing by the pool or take a casual walk on the Esplanade overlooking Darwin Harbour. Hotel: Mantra on the Esplanade, Darwin ( nights) B DAY 2: Darwin to Katherine After breakfast you will be transferred to Darwin Rail Station where your journey aboard the legendary Ghan begins. Friendly staff will lead you through the corridors to your comfortable private Gold Service cabin where you can take your time settling in and exploring the amenities as the view outside your window begins its smooth and spectacular transformation. Make your way to the Queen Adelaide Restaurant for a lunch of culinary wonders prepared by talented chefs on board and accompanied by a selection of regional wines. All food is included in your fare, from a hearty full cooked breakfast to a delectable three course dinner. Following an early afternoon arrival at the famous Top End township of Katherine, choose one of two included off train excursions between Nitmiluk Gorge s natural wonders and rich indigenous culture, or the adventure of an outback horse and working dog demonstration which provides a unique window into the real Australian Outback and the inner workings of life on a cattle station. Back on board, enjoy dinner as the sun sets over the outback. As the train rolls soothingly onwards, fall asleep in awe of wonders seen, and excited by those yet to come. B.L.D DAY 3: Katherine to Alice Springs Wake up to a new view outside your window, an outback sunrise could be one of the most spectacular you ll ever see. After coffee, a juice and a sumptuous breakfast you ll arrive in Alice Springs ready for another day of exploration. Here you have the opportunity to embark on one of the included off train excursions, taking in the delights of this famous outback town. A full day in Alice Springs gives you ample opportunity to visit the town landmarks, get up close and personal with Australia s incredible flora and fauna or explore the Alice at your own leisure. At this point you may choose to upgrade your excursion with the ultimate outback experience an intimate fixed wing scenic flight over Uluru and Kata Tjuta (additional cost). There really is no better way to comprehend the vastness of the Northern Territory. Come the evening you ll dine beneath a canopy of stars at an authentic Outback BBQ at the historic Telegraph Station. This is a truly unique experience with live Australiana music and a mouth-watering feast. After dessert, cast your eyes skyward and ponder life, the universe and everything with an informative astronomical talk. B.L.SD DAY 4: Manguri and Coober Pedy After breakfast this morning, we pull into the middle-of-nowhere stop at Manguri. Here, a friendly local tour guide awaits ready to whisk you away for the day. Your destination is the sun-scorched opal mining capital of the world, Coober Pedy. Venture into the tunnels and caves of this underground town. Below the earth s surface, you ll enjoy a gourmet lunch in the most unique of locations before setting off to the stunning outback moonscape that is the Breakaways. After an eye-opening action packed day it s back on board with plenty of time to ease into a slower gear and prepare yourself for your final evening on board The Ghan. Dine in style, meet and share stories with new friends in the Outback Explorer Lounge (open until late) or simply head back to the privacy of your Gold Service cabin to wind down and enjoy the scenic vistas. B.L.D DAY 5: Adelaide After breakfast you ll have time to reflect on your journey before The Ghan rolls into Adelaide where your journey concludes. B 5 DAYS DARWIN TO ADELAIDE 209 DEPARTURE FROM Aug 06 Aug 0 $3945 Single Cabin $390 All prices are land only per person twin share. Twin cabins have full bathroom facilities. Single Cabins hold a washbasin and share bathroom facilities. For full terms and conditions see back cover. (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner (SD) Special Dinner

12 Western Wonderland NORTHERN TERRITORY 6 Days Departs 24 August, 209 QUEENSLAND The Pinnacles 2 WESTERN AUSTRALIA Monkey Mia Kalbarri Geraldton The Pinnacles Perth SOUTH AUSTRALIA Yanchep National Park Boddington Kalgoorlie NEW SOUTH WALES Fremantle Busselton Margaret River 2 Wave Rock 2 Cape Le Grand National Park Esperance Sydn Stirling Ranges Albany National Park VICTORIA Coach No. of Nights Stay Included Experiences 3 The Ghan Add the Indian Pacific Rail Journey to meet this tour. Full Details on Pages 4-5 DAY : Welcome to Perth On arrival you will transfer to your hotel. Meet with your Tour Director this afternoon and set off on a tour of the friendly Western Australian Capital. Laid back, liveable Perth has beautiful beaches and an easy-going character. Visit Kings Park, the largest innercity park in the world, and explore its delightful Botanic Garden s on the broad expanse of the Swan River. You ll notice many public art installations around the city and develop a feel for the varying precincts surrounding the CBD. This evening enjoy the company of your fellow travellers over a delicious meal. (Guests arriving on the Indian Pacific will join this evening in Perth.) Hotel: Travelodge, Perth ( night) SD DAY 2: Perth Wave Rock Journey through the Golden Outback to Hyden, where you will tour Boddington Gold Mine with a local guide. Australia s largest gold mine, it produces more than a million ounces of gold per year. Continue to Wave Rock. This magnificent rock formation resembling a gigantic wave was formed over three million years ago. After, you may like to explore the visitor centre s eclectic collection of lace and the largest collection of toy soldiers in the world, or even take a tour of Hyden Wildlife Park. This evening dine at your hotel. Hotel: Wave Rock Motel, Wave Rock ( night) DAY 3: Wave Rock - Kalgoorlie This morning you ll take an exclusive farm tour to learn about station life in the outback. Pass through the former gold boomtown of Coolgardie, surrounded in spring by carpets 2 of wildflowers. Continue to Kalgoorlie for spectacular views over the famous Super Pit open cut gold mine, which produces up to 850,000 ounces of gold annually. Later, discover the character and stories of this historic town on an orientation tour. Hotel: Rydges, Kalgoorlie ( night) DAY 4: Kalgoorlie Esperance Today visit Cape Le Grand National Park for breathtaking views of wild coastal scenery, rugged granite peaks and sweeping heathlands. Named after an officer on L Espérance, one of the ships in the 792 expedition of French naval commander and explorer Bruny d Entrecasteaux, the Cape s granite shoreline and white sand beaches are spectacular. Onward to the stunning Lucky Bay where you may see some of the local grey kangaroos that like to laze on the pristine beach. Hotel: Comfort Inn Bay of Isles, Esperance ( night) DAY 5: Esperance - Albany This morning see the mysterious Pink Lake just outside Esperance. In the right conditions, the lake turns a soft shade of pink due to the high concentration of algae in the water. Travel on through Ravensthorpe and the unique Fitzgerald Biosphere, recognised by the UNESCO Man and Biosphere Program. Later, at Bluff Knoll Lookout, you ll witness the rugged beauty of the Stirling Ranges National Park, one of the world s richest and abundant in Western Australia s wildflowers. Continue to Albany, a town imbued with Anzac history and settle in to your hotel for the night. Hotel: The Dog Rock Motel, Albany (2 nights) DAY 6: Albany This morning take your time to explore this historic town, which boasts many heritage- TASMANIA listed buildings. During the last decade of the 9th century, Albany served as a gateway to the Eastern Goldfields, and for many years, it was the colony s only deep-water port. In 94, 4,000 Australians and New Zealanders left from Albany on their way to the WWI battlefields. Later, visit the recentlyinaugurated National Anzac Centre. The award winning centre focuses of one of Australia s most important cultural pilgrimages. B DAY 7: Albany Margaret River Visit the Valley of the Giants Tree Top Walk this morning to explore the canopy of the ancient, majestic Tingle forest. The Red Tingle is a species of eucalypt that grows up to 55 metres in height, and occurs only in Australia. Travel on to Cape Leeuwin, where the Indian and Great Southern Oceans meet. Situated at the most south-westerly point of Australia, Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse is the tallest on the Australian mainland. You may like to take a guided tour to the top of the famous lighthouse before leaving for Margaret River, one of Australia s premier wine-growing regions. Beaches and surf breaks line the nearby coast, whose waters host migratory whales between June and November. Hotel: Stay Margaret River, Margaret River (2 nights) DAY 8: Margaret River First up you ll get the chance to see fossils, stalactites and stalagmites in the impressive Margaret River caves with a local guide. Then get ready to delight your taste buds! Margaret River is known not only for its fabulous wines but also for its boutique producers. Continue to a local winery for tastings and a lunch prepared solely from fresh local produce. Your afternoon and evening is at leisure. B.L

13 Hamelin Pool Stromatolites Wildflowers Wave Rock DAY 9: Margaret River Freemantle On arrival into Fremantle, the afternoon is yours to explore. You may like to visit the colourful Fremantle Markets to purchase local arts and crafts and taste local produce. Take a wander along the Fremantle foreshore to observe the impressive fishing fleet and perhaps partake in a refreshing ale at Little Creatures Brewery. A former crocodile farm on the water s edge, this popular destination is the home of an iconic Australian beer. Enjoy dinner this evening at your hotel. Hotel: Esplanade Hotel Freemantle by Rydges, Freemantle (2 nights) DAY 0: Freemantle Join a private tour of historic convict-era Fremantle Prison, the largest and most intact convict-built prison in Australia, and Western Australia s only World Heritage-listed building. The rest of the day is at leisure. You may choose to take a boat trip to Rottnest Island, lying just eighteen kilometres off Fremantle and a gazetted A-class nature reserve. Perhaps best known for its population of quokkas, a small native marsupial found in very few other locations, the island is also home to colonies of Australian sea lions and southern fur seals. Back in Freemantle you might like to take a ride on the popular tram (additional costs). B DAY : Freemantle Geraldton Travel north along the coast, stopping in Yanchep National Park for an Aboriginal cultural experience with a member of the local Nyoongar people. Continue to the seaside hamlet of Lancelin before reaching Nambung National Park, home of the marvellous Pinnacles, a stunning series of intriguing limestone formations. Explore the township of Geraldton and visit the evocative HMAS Sydney memorial which commemorates the loss of HMAS Sydney II, the greatest single tragedy in Australian naval history, and is dedicated to the lost crew and their families. Hotel: Mantra, Geraldton ( night) B DAY 2: Geraldton Monkey Mia Travel to Shell Beach, one of only two in the world, formed from billions of coquina bivalve shells. Continue north to Denham. Visit the Shark Bay World Heritage Discovery and Visitor Centre before travelling on to the crystal blue waters and pristine beaches of Monkey Mia. Hotel: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort, Monkey Mia (2 nights) DAY 3: Monkey Mia After a leisurely breakfast overlooking the tranquil turquoise waters of the bay, watch as the famous Monkey Mia dolphins swim into shore to be fed. The friendly wild bottlenose dolphins regularly swim to Monkey Mia s shore to interact with humans. (Note: As the dolphins are wild creatures, their appearance cannot be guaranteed.) The rest of the day is at leisure. Perhaps take a scenic flight over Shark Bay Marine Park; or a wildlife cruise aboard a catamaran (additional cost). In the evening, relax as the sun sets over the bay. B DAY 4: Monkey Mia Kalbarri Travel to Hamelin Pool to discover a unique colony of Stromatolites, described as the earliest record of life on earth. Venture into Kalbarri National Park today to witness the spectacular scenery of the Murchison River Gorge. Our visit coincides with wildflower season when the park comes alive with blooms. This evening, come together to enjoy dinner at your hotel and reminisce on your journey so far. Hotel: Best Western Plus Kalbarri Edge Resort, Kalbarri ( night) DAY 5: Kalbarri Perth Today you will travel back to Perth where this evening you will join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a Farewell Dinner. Hotel: Travelodge, Perth ( night) B.SD DAY 6: Farewell from Perth Say farewell to your fellow travellers when your journey comes to an end after breakfast. Transfer by coach to the Airport for your onward journey. B 6 DAYS PERTH TO PERTH 209 DEPARTURE FROM Aug 24 Sep 08 $5355 Single Supplement $760 Begin this tour in style by linking The Indian Pacific rail journey from Sydney to Perth. All inclusive Gold Service style from $2,695 in a twin share cabin, or $2,445 in a single cabin. SEE PAGES 4-5 All prices are land only per person twin share. Tour is based on minimum 20 passengers. Flights to arrive prior to 2:00pm into Perth Airport on Day. For full terms and conditions see back cover. (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner (SD) Special Dinner 3

14 Indian Pacific Stepping aboard the mighty Indian Pacific, you will feel a great sense of anticipation as this unforgettable Australian adventure begins to unfold. Experience a truly trans-continental rail journey, from the Pacific Ocean to the Indian Ocean, including the longest stretch of straight railway track in the world. TAKE A JOURNEY BEYOND EXPECTATION 4

15 The Indian Pacific 4 Days Departs 2 August, 209 Gold Service Cabin NORTHERN TERRITORY QUEENSLAND Monkey Mia WESTERN AUSTRALIA Nullarbor Plain (Rawlinna) SOUTH AUSTRALIA Broken Hill NEW SOUTH WALES Perth Margaret River Esperance Adelaide Barossa Valley Sydney 3 Included Experiences The Indian Pacific VICTORIA Add to the start of the Western Wonderland. Take a momentous rail journey across the breadth of the Australian Outback on board the famous Indian Pacific. This is a journey defined by contrast, encompassing the towering majesty of the Blue Mountains to the barren expanse of the Nullabor and every goldmine, ghost town and grapevine in between. From the moment you step into your Gold Service cabin you will relax in the knowledge that all food and beverages are covered, from magnificent gourmet meals prepared by our professional chefs to a social beverage shared in one of our atmospheric lounges. See pages 2 and3 for full itinerary for the Western Wonderland tour. DAY : Sydney Your transcontinental adventure begins in Sydney where you board the Indian Pacific at Sydney s Central Station. Settle into your cabin or lounge chair for a comfortable afternoon taking in changing landscapes. Watch the sandstone cliffs, forested valleys, escarpments and waterfalls of the Blue Mountains morph into the more arid landscapes of the New South Wales outback. See a fiery sun sink into rugged ranges, mulga bush and desert plain as you enjoy dinner and wine in the dining car, a regionally inspired dinner paired with allinclusive beverages. D DAY 2: Broken Hill and Adelaide Surrounds You arrive in Broken Hill as the day begins. Here you will embark on a morning of off train excursions. This former mining town known as Silver City sits amidst distinctive desert landscapes and an oasis of lakes. Soak up the city on a one hour whistle stop tour. Learn about the rich mining history and visit the Royal Flying Doctor base. See the Living Desert Sculptures and one of the impressive art galleries. Don t worry if it feels like the earth is moving beneath you, after spending a day on board you re probably transferring the train s rhythmic sway to land. Lunch is served on board as the Indian Pacific enters the southern tip of the spectacular and ancient Flinders Ranges. Arriving in the city of Adelaide in the afternoon, you have the choice of a tour of the city, a visit to the worldfamous Barossa Valley or a trip to the beautiful Adelaide Hills featuring the culinary delights of Hahndorf. B.L.D DAY 3: Nullarbor Plain This morning you will awake to the seemingly endless expanse of the Nullarbor Plain. Breakfast is served as you travel along the longest stretch of straight railway track in the world! This evening enjoy the tranquillity of dinner off the train and under the stars in the remote and beautiful township of Rawlinna. A unique experience not to be missed. B.L.SD DAY 4: Perth Breakfast is served as you glide through the colourful patchwork of rolling hills of the Avon Valley. After lunch, arrive into cosmopolitan Perth where you will be transferred to your hotel to join Day of the tour, Western Wonderland. Get to know your Travel Director and travelling companions at a Welcome Reception and dinner this evening. (For guests not continuing onto the Western Wonderland, your journey concludes on arrival to Perth). B.L.D 4 DAYS SYDNEY TO PERTH 209 DEPARTURE FROM Aug 2 Aug 24 $2,965 Single Cabin $2,445 All prices are land only per person twin share. Twin Cabins have full bathroom facilities. Single Cabins hold a washbasin and share bathroom facilities. Coach tour itinerary and pricing on page 2. For full terms and conditions see back cover. (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner (SD) Special Dinner 5

16 Find us General Information & Conditions The following terms and conditions are an agreement between you, our company and tour operators. Our tour operators by product are: AAT Kings for our touring product and Great Southern Rail for The Ghan and Indian Pacific Rail add-ons. When you make a deposit payment you thereby agree to accept the terms and conditions of this contract. This agreement should be read in conjunction with the full tour operator booking conditions. Price: The advertised price is in Australian dollars. No surcharges in regards to cost will be made once deposit is received. This guarantee excludes fuel surcharges and does not apply to any taxes, charges or levies imposed by any government or its agencies. No discounts are applicable. Price includes transport, entrance fees as per itinerary, plus services of a Travel Director and Driver (on land touring itineraries) and meals as specified and is subject to minimum numbers being met. (Some tours have optional excursions which will incur a cost). The Rail journeys are all-inclusive which includes all meals, drinks and sightseeing (some additional optional add-ons are also available at a cost). Booking, Deposit & Final Payment: A non-refundable deposit of $500 per person is due within 7 days of booking. For Ghan and Indian Pacific add-ons a further $500 deposit is required at time of booking. Full balance is due no later than 00 days before departure for all tours. Cancellations: For all holiday packages in this brochure, the following cancellation fees will apply: Days of Notice Fee Per Person 00 days or more Loss of Deposit 99-6 days 50% of holiday package price 60 days or less 00% of holiday package price All cancellations must be received in writing and are not effective until this notification has been received. Group conditions: A minimum number of passengers are required to operate all tours. Should minimum passenger numbers not be met we will review the operation of this tour, and additional costs may apply. Tour itinerary adjustments: We reserve the right to alter the itinerary including sightseeing, schedules, hotels, and other tour inclusions to accommodate unforeseen circumstances or events beyond our control. The advertised trips require minimum numbers to depart. Should these not be met, Signature Journeys reserves the right to alter or cancel arrangements. Travel Insurance: Please note that travel insurance is highly recommended. Please see your travel agent for further details. Tipping and gratuities: Tipping is not generally a custom in Australia therefore no tipping is included nor is it expected and as such remains at the discretion of the individual. Signature Journeys a division of Hunter Travel Group Pty Ltd ABN A468. Visit or book with our preferred travel partners. NEW SOUTH WALES Helloworld Belmont (02) Helloworld Charlestown (02) Helloworld Eastgardens (02) Helloworld Glendale (02) Helloworld Green Hills (02) Helloworld Kotara (02) Helloworld Newcastle (02) Helloworld Parramatta (02) Helloworld Toronto (02) Cruise Travel Centre Green Hills (02) Cruise Travel Centre Kotara (02) ACT Helloworld Canberra Centre (02) QUEENSLAND Helloworld Maroochydore (07) TASMANIA RACT Travel Burnie (03) RACT Travel Devonport (03) RACT Travel Hobart (03) RACT Travel Kingston (03) RACT Travel Launceston (03) RACT Travel Rosny (03) RACT Travel Ulverstone (03) Cruise Travel Centre Hobart (03) The Travel Studio Hobart (03) VICTORIA Helloworld Knox Westfield (03) Helloworld Toorak (03) WESTERN AUSTRALIA Helloworld Bunbury (08)