Free settlers established Launceston on the River Tamar in 1806. Today, the city has many fine Victorian buildings dating back to the 1870s and 1880s sitting comfortably alongside elegant contemporary architecture and a modern lifestyle. Cool climate wines and fine dining are the essences of the new Launceston experience and the city is a perfect base from which to explore the surrounding region. Cataract Gorge is a unique natural wonder only a 15-min walk from the city centre and not far from the J Boag and Son historic brewery. Further afield, the River Tamar flows north from Launceston to George Town and Bass Strait, past forested hills and pastures, lavender plantations, vineyards, strawberry farms and orchards. If you have an interest in fine wine and fresh produce then follow the Tamar Valley Wine route where you'll find dedicated makers inspired by the rich surrounding farmland ready to share their stories with you while you sample their wares. North-east of Launceston is Scottsdale and the popular port and seaside town of Bridport, famous for fishing and Barnbougle Dunes links golf course - Australia's No 1 public course. Nearby are the purple lavender fields at Nabowla. Beneath the Great Western Tiers west of Launceston is the pretty town of Deloraine. Every year the town hosts Australia's biggest working craft fair, while to the south down the Midland Highway are examples of Tasmania's living history. In Evandale, Longford, Campbell Town and Ross, you'll find World Heritage-listed estates, 19th-century grand country manors, early workers' cottages and peaceful town centres that are home to thriving country communities.

Mount Buffalo National Park has sheer cliffs, imposing granite tors, tumbling waterfalls, snow gums and stunning wildflowers. The park features over 90 kilometres of walking tracks, panoramic scenery, waterfalls and scope for adventurous pursuits such as rock climbing and hang-gliding. Mount Buffalo is an all-seasons playground. In summer, wildflowers are plentiful and the park is a cool retreat from the heat of the lowlands. Take in superb 360-degree views from the summit of the Horn and the delightful Gorge Heritage Walk. Enjoy picnics, canoeing and camping at Lake Catani in the summer months. In winter the park is ideal for cross-country skiing with its gentle undulating landscape, spectacular sub-alpine environment and the convenience of over 14km of marked ski trails. The park offers safe and accessible tobogganing and snow play areas, providing great fun for the whole family. Before you go Conditions can change in parks for many reasons. For the latest information on changes to local conditions, please visit the relevant park page on the Parks Victoria website.

Yamba is one of those weirdly magical places that makes you feel nostalgic for it, even while you’re there. There’s something about the arrangement of the headlands and beaches, the nooks and crannies of the waterways, the trawlers and the pleasure craft in the marina, the pelicans and ospreys, the dolphins and whales, the flap of canvas in the caravan park, the buildings nestled into the hill, the heat coming off the bitumen in summer, the sunscreen and the aeroguard – it feels like you’re in a memory of holidays past, in the here and now. Put another way, Yamba evokes feelings you might have had as a kid – and for all it’s excellent contemporary dining, cafes, accommodation and shopping – Yamba manages to connect visitors with a sense of fun, joy, and innocence. It’ll come as no surprise that there’s a number of excellent aquatic experiences available in Yamba: a multitude of fishing options, boat charters, river cruises, barbecue pontoons, paddleboat hire, kayaking tours, whale watching tours in season, not to mention patrolled beaches for surf bathing, and a number of great surf breaks for boardriders. Standing proudly atop Pilot Hill is the iconic Yamba Lighthouse. From here you get a panoramic view over the surrounding beaches, the mouth of the river and Yamba Bay. Sunrise is special up here! There are bike tracks galore around Yamba, basically running from one end of town to the other. The ride along Ford Park and Yamba Bay is great, but also try the road down to Angourie (with bike path) and check out the iconic Angourie Point surf break. All this activity’s sure to bring on an appetite, and here’s another area where Yamba excels! From fine dining to groovy cafés, to quality pub meals to takeaways, it’s all on offer, and if you like your seafood fresh and local, well, you’re in heaven right here.

Fresh salty air, frolicking dolphins, stunning coastal walks, and picturesque hinterland drives - these are just a few things that describe one of Australia's favourite holiday spots. No matter what your age, there are plenty of activities to experience and entice you to come out of your shell to discover this coastal playground. The vibrant Central Business District of Port Macquarie is surrounded by water from the Hastings River and beaches. Great shopping, good food and wine, and for your ideal holiday or short break, you have just what you need. To ensure a great stay, take a stroll along the riverside break wall, watch the pelicans drift by, climb up to historic Tacking Point Lighthouse, take a cruise - dolphin and whale watching, jet boat ride, or visit the patients at the iconic Koala Hospital. Known as one of the best walking towns and boasting a relaxed coastal vibe you can enjoy the great outdoors, picturesque beaches, endless waterways, but also the finer things in life! Great food and coffee, noteworthy heritage, an abundance of art, and some great wine bars all within an easy 10 minute walk.

With its sparkling beaches, world-class surfing spots, and pulsating nightlife, this iconic destination beckons travellers from across the globe to indulge in its limitless charm and electrifying energy. Begin your adventure at Surfers Paradise, the heart and soul of the Gold Coast. Gaze upon the seemingly endless stretch of golden sand as the sun casts a warm glow upon the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean. Dip your toes in the surf or grab a board and ride the waves, feeling the exhilaration as you become one with the powerful ocean swells. Surfers Paradise is a mecca for wave enthusiasts, offering some of the best breaks in the world. After a day on the beach, immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of the city. Stroll down the bustling Cavill Avenue, lined with trendy shops, alfresco dining, and entertainment venues. Indulge in a culinary journey through a diverse array of world cuisines, from fresh seafood to mouthwatering international delicacies. As the sun sets, the city comes alive with neon lights and the sound of laughter and music, creating an electric atmosphere that is uniquely Gold Coast. For those seeking a break from the beach, venture into the lush hinterland that hugs the coast. Explore the enchanting rainforests of Lamington National Park, where ancient trees tower overhead and cascading waterfalls create a symphony of nature's serenade. Take a leisurely hike through the dense foliage, encountering colorful birds, playful wildlife, and breathtaking vistas at every turn. No trip to the Gold Coast is complete without a visit to the iconic theme parks that dot the landscape. Let your inner child run wild at Warner Bros. Movie World, where superheroes come to life and adrenaline-pumping roller coasters defy gravity. Cool off at Wet'n'Wild Water World, a paradise of thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools that will leave you feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. As night falls, explore the vibrant nightlife that has made the Gold Coast famous. From trendy beachside bars and rooftop lounges to bustling nightclubs, the city comes alive after dark. Dance the night away, sipping on exotic cocktails, or simply unwind with a moonlit stroll along the glittering shoreline. The Gold Coast, with its irresistible blend of natural beauty, thrilling adventures, and vibrant culture, promises an unforgettable escape. Whether you're chasing the perfect wave, exploring lush rainforests, or immersing yourself in the city's infectious energy, this sun-drenched playground will captivate your heart and leave you yearning for more. Discover the magic of the Gold Coast and create memories that will last a lifetime.