Pre ATE 2013 Famil Program Sydney-Melbourne Coastal Touring April 2013 Western Hemisphere

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1 Pre ATE 2013 Famil Program Sydney-Melbourne Coastal Touring April 2013 Western Hemisphere *Please note itineraries are subject to change* *All accommodation and activities will be confirmed prior to your departure* Welcome to Australia and welcome to Sydney-Melbourne Touring, a journey that will take you through the quintessential Australian experience. It s here, in this corner of the continent that you can see thriving colonial villages, handsome gold rush towns and historic rural cities, all set in some of the most stunning landscapes in the world. The best way to experience this unique history and natural beauty is self-drive at your own pace, along three very distinctive touring routes connecting Australia s two largest cities, Sydney and Melbourne. Each one reveals its own unique display of natural wonders and history, and whichever way you choose to drive, inland along the coast or across the mountains, staying in heritage mansions or in beachside tents, the locals you ll meet all share the easy going, friendly, welcoming spirit that is uniquely Australian. For more information, please visit our website: For this Pre-ATE famil, we will host you on the Sydney-Melbourne Coastal Drive from Melbourne to Sydney. We believe this trip will provide you with the opportunity to personally experience some of the most spectacular natural scenes, great adventures and activities that Sydney-Melbourne Touring has to offer. Jervis Bay, South Coast NSW Your Sydney-Melbourne Touring contacts are: Paul Cooper, Marketing & Business Development Manager M: +61 (0) E: paul@sydneymelbournetouring.com.au Anthony Jiang, Marketing Executive PO Box 430, San Remo VIC 3925, Australia M: +61 (0) E: anthony@sydneymelbournetouring.com.au

2 IMPORTANT INFORMATION We recommend you pack: A rain jacket A warm sweater/jacket for nights Water bottle Comfortable walking shoes Camera Sunglasses & Hat Sunscreen Umbrella Spending money Australian Smoking Laws: Federal law bans smoking in all Australian Commonwealth government buildings, public transport, airports and international and domestic flights. Further bans are in place but are governed by individual states. Most Australian states and territories have banned smoking in enclosed public places, particularly workplaces and restaurants. Australian Voltage: Australia uses voltage with a three flat pin. Battery chargers for digital cameras, laptops and other electrical equipment will display the input range and as long as this is within the v range it will work with just a socket converter. If not, it is possible to purchase a transformer that will increase or decrease the Australian voltage as necessary. Dress Code The dress code for the famil is casual during the day and smart casual for evening activities. We recommend bringing a warm jacket for evenings. Currency Although credit cards and ATMs are readily available, it is a good idea to exchange some money for smaller purchases. Climate The warmest months are December to February, with an average maximum temperature of 25ºC. The average minimum temperature from June to August is 9ºC. Warmer clothing and enclosed walking shoes/boots are recommended for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Warm jacket suggested for evenings. This itinerary includes: accommodation, tours, transfers and meals as specified. All other items and expenses of a personal nature, or noted own arrangements or own expense are to be met by the participant. Please note your itinerary arrangements do not include: Items of a personal nature (e.g. Mini bar, videos, beauty salon) Laundry service Telephone, internet access or other communication costs Travel Insurance or Visas Tipping Drinks and alcohol - unless specified otherwise Meals - unless specified as hosted Thursday, 25 April 2013 NB: ANZAC DAY Public Holiday. ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) Day is the anniversary of the landing of troops from Australia and New Zealand on the Gallipoli Peninsula, Turkey, in World War I on April 25, ANZAC Day is celebrated Australia-wide with holiday arrangements varying in states and territories. In New South Wales, many workers and students have the day off to participate in remembrance ceremonies. Please be aware, in many areas, large retail outlets, department stores and shops have restricted trading hours and many public transport systems may operate a reduced timetable. There may be some disruption to traffic, particularly around parades and ceremonies. Page 2

3 DAY 1 Sunday, 21 April 2013 Melbourne ton Peninsula (D) 1630 Meet your host in Melbourne then travel to the ton Peninsula 1830 Arrive at Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park, Enjoy casual homemade dinner, followed by a unique evening wildlife tour Arrive at accommodation Overnight: Best Western Plus Brooklands of ton or similar DAY 2 Monday, 22 April 2013 ton Peninsula Phillip Island (B, L, D) Breakfast at leisure 0840 Check out and start exploring the Monington Peninsula 0915 Stop at Arthurs Seat Lookout for a quick view of the Peninsula, the bay and Melbourne CBD skyline (Weather permitting) 1000 A quick look at Bayplay Adventure Tours in Portsea 1035 Arrive at Sorrento Ferry Terminal and meet Matt, who will take us onboard the newly refurbished Searoad Ferry for a quick look Arrive at Max s at Red Hill Restaurant for tutored wine tasting and lunch 1345 Walk through Ashcombe Maze & Lavender Gardens 1500 Visit Woodman Estate for afternoon tea 1745 Arrive at Phillip Island Nature Parks Penguin Parade, view the world s smallest penguins 1930 Arrive at accommodation, check in, followed by dinner at the Resort s Watermark Restaurant Overnight: Silverwater Resort or similar DAY 3 Tuesday, 23 April 2013 Phillip Island Metung (B, L, D) Breakfast at leisure 0815 Check out and depart for Gippsland 1000 A quick look at Limosa Rise self-contained cottages 1045 Arrive at Wilsons Promontory National Park. Explore the tracks and trails around Tidal River and Pillar Point, followed by BBQ lunch Depart for Gippsland Lakes (we will have comfort stops along the way) 1630 Arrive at Metung, check in to accommodation, followed by dinner at The Metung Galley Overnight: The Moorings at Metung or Chestnut Hill Country Retreat Page 3

4 DAY 4 Wednesday, 24 April 2013 Metung Bermagui/Tilba Tilba (B, L, D) Breakfast at leisure A quick look at Waverley House Cottages, followed by a quick look through Lakes Entrance Arrive at Mallacoota for lunch Visit Gipsy Point Lakeside and a quick cruise on the lake. Cross the Victoria/ New South Wales border Visit Robyn s Nest Boutique Resort at Merimbula, NSW. Robyn s Nest Boutique Resort Contact: 188 Merimbula Drive, Merimbula NSW 2548 P: E: enquiries@robynsnest.com.au W: The Robyn s Nest Guesthouse offers luxurious bed and breakfast accommodation on the foreshores of Merimbula's Top Lake. With an absolute lakefront setting, and surrounded by beautiful bushland, Robyn s Nest Guesthouse B&B has everything you could need for a romantic escape or relaxed family holiday. Endless attractions and the tranquility of the area surrounds you on arrival. Absolute lake front bush setting blended with an abundance of birdlife. Robyn s Nest is set in 100 acres of bushland and rainforest just 2km from Merimbula with a 25 acre lake frontage - the Top Lake is an excellent fishing ground. Robyn s Nest Guesthouse is a unique lifestyle retreat, with 6 tastefully decorated guest suites and 14 fully self-contained AAA rated 4 1/2 -star cottages. This excellent mini resort provides guests with superb facilities, including an outdoor spa, 15-metre solar heated swimming pool and a competition standard synthetic grass tennis court Arrive at Bermagui. A peaceful town, famous for its fishing, Bermagui nestles around a safe, all-weather harbour dating from the 1830s. The continental shelf is just 20 km offshore its closest point to the Australian mainland which means exceptional deep-sea fishing. In particular, the town is known for its yellow fin tuna and the famed black marlin. Arrive at your accommodation at Bimbimbi House or Green Gables Guide House. Bimbimbi House Contact: Bev & Peter Bray Nutley's Creek Road, Bermagui 2546 P: E: bimbimbihouse@bigfoot.com.au W: Bimbimbi House is situated in Bermagui on the beautiful coastline of the New South Wales far south Page 4

5 coast (known as the Sapphire Coast). The house is one of Bermagui's original homesteads, high on the hill above the Bermagui River, overlooking spectacular views. The spacious, rambling gardens were inspired by Edna Walling and much of the property is a pure stand Spotted Gum Forest. Enjoy the rural aspect of meeting our farm animals: sheep, goat, chooks &ducks. They all welcome our guests with enthusiasm! Dinner onsite at accommodation. Overnight: Bimbimbi House and/or Green Gables Guest House DAY 5 Thursday, 25 April 2013 ANZAC Day, Public Holiday Bermagui/Tilba Tilba Wollongong (B, L, D) Breakfast at leisure 0800 Check out, then keep exploring South Coast NSW Arrive at Central Tilba to check out all the boutique shops in this little quaint village. The town is a clutch of weatherboard buildings perched on a rippling green ridge, set against the towering peak of Mt Dromedary. Known as Gulaga to the local Aboriginal people, Central Tilba is the postcard version of a country town, and keeping the village lively is the collection of craft workers and artisans who have taken up residence. Spend time exploring this South Coast Urban Conservation Area that includes Tilba Tilba, Mt Dromedary and the surrounding countryside. Step back in time in Central Tilba and Tilba Tilba where you'll be able to relax and unwind. Wander into Tilba Leather, Tilba Woodturning Gallery and Bates Emporium. Central Tilba is the home of Tilba Cheese, one of the best known cheesemakers in Australia. The ABC Cheese Factory produces the popular cheeses, Tilba Gold and Tilba Vintage while South Coast Cheese produces homemade cheese from the finest Jersey cows and the freshest pastures. Visit the delightful Tilba Valley Wines Stop at Batemans Bay and grab a bite to eat for lunch. Batemans Bay attracts everyone from watercolour artists and rock fishermen, to kids building sandcastles, keen surfers and fishing enthusiasts. The coastline around Batemans Bay is stunning with a string of golden beaches, mangroves and oyster flats, and sheltered coves. In the Batemans Bay Marine Park you can go fishing, diving, snorkelling and boating. Enjoy the Clyde River on a lunchtime cruise; if you enjoy oysters, don't miss the succulent local Clyde River oysters. There are plenty of things to do around Batemans Bay. Drive south along Beach Road, stopping at a string of picturesque coves and beaches. Drop a line off any number of good spots and might hook a bream, flathead or mulloway. Enjoy a game of golf on the 27-hole Catalina Country Club, rated one of the finest courses on the South Coast Continue onto Huskisson via Pebbly Beach Arrive Pebbly Beach. Page 5

6 Pebbly Beach is already known widely as the home of the "surfing kangaroos" (a myth arising from a photograph of a kangaroo in the low surf - probably chased there by a dog). Although they will not be surfing when you visit, you will find a large resident kangaroo population at Pebbly quite happy to be patted or to pose for a photograph. The Pebbly Beach turn-off is about 10 kilometres south of Termeil and it is about eight kilometres over a gravel road to Pebbly itself Depart Pebbly Beach for Huskisson Arrive at Huskisson, and board Dolphin Watch Cruises and explore Jervis Bay. Dolphin Watch Cruises Jervis Bay Contact name: Matt Cross 50 Owen Street, Huskisson P: E: cruises@dolphinwatch.com.au W: Jervis Bay Extreme is a new 14 metre 'rigid inflatable' boat that can reach speeds of up to 100km/h. You will be taken to all the beautiful, and previously 'undiscovered', secrets of Jervis Bay and have the opportunity to see dolphins and whales (during whale season) Located just five minutes drive from the natural wonders of Jervis Bay, visit Paperbark Camp. Paperbark Camp Contact: Irena & Jeremy Hutchings 571 Woollamia Rd, Woollamia P: E: info@paperbarkcamp.com.au W: Combining unique tented accommodation, a tranquil bush setting with superb food and warm hospitality, Paperbark Camp lets you get back to nature in style and comfort. The safari style tents have solar powered lighting and are thoughtfully placed amongst the gum trees on elevated timber decks for minimal impact and natural ventilation Arrive at Wollongong, check into accommodation at the Novotel Wollongong. Novotel Wollongong Northbeach Contact: Walter Immoos / Belinda McGarity 2-14 Cliff Road, North Wollongong T: E: H1654-SL@accor.com W: Located on North Wollongong beach and offering spectacular ocean and mountain views. Novotel Wollongong Northbeach is one of the south coast's most popular getaway venues Dinner on-site at the Novotel Wollongong Northbeach. Overnight: Novotel Wollongong Page 6

7 DAY 6 Friday, 26 April 2013 Wollongong Sydney (B, L) Breakfast at leisure, optional activity: Follow the Blue Mile walk and enjoy the charming beach and water view along Wollongong Foreshore Walk along the newly constructed Blue Mile boardwalk, along Wollongong harbour and foreshore. Take in the magnificent view of the South Pacific Ocean and stop for a coffee or casual lunch at one of the many seaside dining options Check out and start travelling along the Grand Pacific Drive towards Sydney. Grand Pacific Drive encompasses some of the most spectacular coastline in New South Wales. The drive from the Royal National Park (the world s second oldest National Park) to Wollongong and through to Shellharbour, Kiama and the Shoalhaven, takes you through coastal rainforests, quaint seaside villages, the bustling city of Wollongong and past the rolling hills, wineries and dairy farms of the south. The 140 kilometre drive starts just 45 minutes south of Sydney s CBD, at the entry into the Royal National Park and ends at the start of the spectacular Shoalhaven region Stop at Bald Hill Lookout and enjoy the wonderful ocean view. Take in the spectacular view from Bald Hill Lookout and watch the hang gliders or para-gliders take off from this point (weather/wind dependent).located at Bald Hill is the Lawrence Hargrave Memorial; dedicated to the Australia s pioneer of flight and Australia s greatest contributor to the early science of Aeronautics Heading into Sydney via the Royal National Park Arrive in Sydney and check in to your ATE allocated hotel. ATE Program commences Page 7

8 DESTINATION NSW FAMIL PARTICIPATION RELEASE FORM You agree to take part in the Activities set out in the itinerary (annexure A) on the following terms: 1. In this Release, "Activities" includes without limitation: all international and domestic flights; transfers, transport; accommodation; touring; attractions and any other activity which is part of the familiarisation. 2. By accepting the offer of Destination NSW to visit Sydney/New South Wales, you agree to the terms set in this Release. 3. You agree to comply with the directions of the person operating the familiarisation and any other instructions Destination NSW gives you concerning the familiarisation or the Activities. 4. Destination NSW has taken reasonable care in arranging the familiarisation. However, Destination NSW has relied on information provided by facility or services operators and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of that information. 5. Destination NSW may cancel or suspend an Activity or the familiarisation or your involvement in it for any reason at any time. 6. To the extent the law allows, Destination NSW excludes all express and implied warranties, including as to the familiarisation and the content of the Activities or their suitability for any purpose. 7. As part of your participation in this program, you agree to take out and maintain all appropriate insurance including relevant personal travel and medical insurances. 8. You participate in the familiarisation and the Activities at your sole discretion and risk. Destination NSW is not liable for any expense, loss, damage, injury, sickness, death or accident you or any other person suffers or incurs directly or indirectly as a result of the familiarisation or the Activities (including consequential or indirect loss) or otherwise arising out of your participation in the familiarisation and Activities, whether that loss or damage is due to our negligence, default, another tort or for any common law or statutory action. 9. You acknowledge that, in addition to the usual dangers and inherent risks of any activity, this familiarisation has certain additional dangers and risks, which you accept by participating, some of which may include: physical exertion for which you may not be prepared; the increased possibility of accident, injury or death due to the nature of the Activities; and remoteness from normal medical services. 10. I understand that the Activities may be organised and provided by other parties other than Destination NSW and that Destination NSW is not liable for the acts of these other parties. 11. I also understand that there may be risks involved which are not known to me or to Destination NSW and may not be foreseen or reasonably foreseeable by any of us at this time or at the time of the carrying out of the Activities. 12. I assume all of the risks associated with my participation in the Activities and I warrant that I am voluntarily assuming all responsibility for my participation in the Activities, including any loss or damage suffered by me as a result of my participation in the Activities. 13. I warrant that I am physically fit to participate in the Activities, that I do not suffer from any medical condition which participation in the Activities is or is likely to put me at higher risk of injury. If you have a medical condition which may affect participation in the Activities or is likely to put me at higher risk of injury, we recommend not participating. Please advise us of any medical conditions, special dietary requirements and/or allergies. Page 8

9 14. I hereby release and forever discharge and agree to save and hold harmless Destination NSW and their directors, officers, employees, agents, the lessors and lessees or licensors and licensees of any food, drink, property, facilities or equipment consumed and/or used in connection with the Activities and other participants ( the released parties ) from any and all injuries (including personal injury, disability, dismemberment and death) illness, losses, damage, claims, liabilities or expenses, of any kind or nature (whether accruing to me, my heirs or my personal representatives) that are caused or alleged to be caused in whole or in part by the action, negligence, failure to act or condition of the food, drink, property, facilities or equipment of any released party that arise out of or in connection with my participation in the Activities and I agree that Destination NSW may plead this agreement as a complete defence to any claim brought by me, my heirs or successors in contravention of the terms of this agreement. 15. You agree to abide and comply with all relevant laws whilst in Australia. 16. As part of the Activities you may travel by a mode of transport (i.e. car) which is operated by someone else. You agree that Destination NSW is not liable for the acts of the operator. Destination NSW does not warrant that the operator has a particular skill level of operating the mode of transport and you participate in this component of the Activities at your own risk acknowledging that there may be risks involved which are not known to me or to Destination NSW and may not be foreseen or reasonably foreseeable by any of us at this time or at the time of the carrying out of this component of the Activities. 17. You will complete an image/footage release form as outlined in Annexure B. TERMS & CONDITIONS OF FAMILIARISATION The NSW visit is outlined in your itinerary. Please note your itinerary will not include the following items in which such payment remains the liability of you: 1. Items of personal nature (such as room service, mini bar, movie channels, laundry service, beauty treatments, etc.); 2. Telephone, internet, wifi, fax or other communication costs unless specified in the itinerary; 3. Insurance; 4. Meals, drinks and alcohol unless specified in the itinerary. You will receive a final confirmed itinerary within two weeks prior to travel. Your itinerary will be designed with the aim to increase your knowledge of Sydney and/or regional New South Wales. It is compulsory to attend itinerary inclusions. Please contact Destination NSW prior to departing for Australia if you have any concerns regarding the itinerary. You must have a valid passport and necessary visa documentation for entry into Australia. You are not allowed to change the itinerary. Destination NSW reserves the right to change the itinerary at any time. An evaluation and feedback from must be completed within the time-frame requested. This will be provided by Destination NSW after the conclusion of your visit. It is mandatory for you to conduct yourself in a responsible and professional manner throughout your visit. Any medical conditions/allergies/special dietary requirements must be advised. Page 9