Discover Norfolk Island at Your Own Pace with Kingston Cruisers

Kingston Cruisers

Exploring Norfolk Island’s UNESCO World Heritage site has just become easier and more enjoyable with the launch of Kingston Cruisers, a new way to take in the island’s history, scenery, and culture on two wheels.

Cruise Through Kingston and Arthur’s Vale

Kingston Cruisers offers a gentle cycling experience through the Kingston and Arthur's Vale Historic Area (KAVHA), allowing visitors to discover the island’s heritage at their own pace. With GPS-triggered audio guides, riders can learn fascinating stories about Norfolk Island’s past while enjoying breathtaking views, hidden gems, and seaside breezes along the route.

Comfortable, Local, and Welcoming

Designed for travellers of all ages and fitness levels, Kingston Cruisers provides smooth, comfortable bikes so you can relax and take your time. The experience is proudly local, giving visitors the chance to connect deeply with the island’s history and natural beauty while supported by friendly staff who make exploration easy and memorable.

A Slow and Scenic Adventure

This is Norfolk Island the way it was meant to be explored: unhurried, scenic, and unforgettable. Whether you are a history enthusiast, nature lover, or casual adventurer, Kingston Cruisers offers a unique perspective of one of the Pacific’s most remarkable heritage sites.

Web contact details  https://kingstoncruisers.com/          https://www.norfolkisland.com.au

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Street Sounds and Elvis Spirit: McDonald’s Busking Championships Rock the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival

McDonald’s Busking Championships

The Parkes Elvis Festival is famous for transforming regional New South Wales into a vibrant celebration of music, culture and community. In 2026, the energy spills onto the streets once again with the return of the McDonald’s Busking Championships, an event that brings live performance, creativity and Elvis-inspired atmosphere directly to the heart of Parkes.

Festival Boulevard Comes Alive with Music

During the Parkes Elvis Festival, Festival Boulevard becomes an open-air stage where footpaths, street corners, cafés and shop fronts pulse with sound. Across Friday and Saturday afternoons, buskers perform for passing crowds, creating a dynamic soundtrack that captures the spirit of Elvis and the joy of live music.

From seasoned street performers to emerging talent and quirky newcomers, the Busking Championships showcase an incredible variety of artists. For visitors, it is a chance to discover new performers, enjoy spontaneous entertainment and experience the festival beyond the main stages.

A Competition with a Grand Finale

The McDonald’s Busking Championships are not only about atmosphere, they are also a fiercely contested competition. Performers are scored across the weekend, with the top three earning a coveted place in Sunday’s grand finale on the Cooke Park Main Stage.

Here, the finalists battle it out in front of a large festival audience for the title of McDonald’s Busking Champion. The finale delivers high energy, crowd interaction and memorable performances that often become highlights of the entire festival program.

Proudly Supported by McDonald’s Australia

McDonald’s is the official sponsor of the McDonald’s Busking Championships at the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival, continuing its long-standing commitment to Australian communities. For more than 50 years, McDonald’s has played an active role beyond the counter, supporting local initiatives, charities and events that bring people together.

With a focus on sourcing fresh Australian produce, driving sustainability initiatives and strengthening community connections, McDonald’s remains a trusted and familiar presence across the country. Their support helps ensure emerging performers have a platform to shine and festivalgoers enjoy an even richer experience.

A Must-See Festival Experience

The Busking Championships add a unique layer to the Parkes Elvis Festival, blending grassroots creativity with the excitement of competition. Whether you are strolling through town, enjoying a coffee or heading between events, the live street performances create moments of surprise and connection that define the festival atmosphere.

Visitors are also encouraged to enjoy the local hospitality along Festival Boulevard, making the most of Parkes’ cafés, shops and dining venues throughout the celebrations.

Get Involved in the Busking Action

Aspiring performers can enter the McDonald’s Busking Championships and become part of this iconic festival feature. For audiences, the championships offer free, accessible entertainment and a chance to support artists at every stage of their journey.

For competition entry details, festival programs and event updates, visit
https://www.parkeselvisfestival.com.au/

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Walking Through History: Discover Hyde Park Barracks in the Heart of Sydney

Hyde Park Barracks

In the centre of Sydney, where modern city life moves at a relentless pace, Hyde Park Barracks stands as one of Australia’s most powerful and immersive historical attractions. This remarkable site invites visitors to see, hear, feel and confront Australia’s past in a way few places can, offering a deeply moving journey through more than 200 years of history.

A Convict-Era Landmark Preserved in Time

Hyde Park Barracks is one of the country’s best-preserved convict-era buildings and a UNESCO World Heritage site of global significance. Constructed in the early nineteenth century, it housed thousands of convicts who were forced to live and work within its walls. Over time, it also became home to migrants and institutionalised women, each group leaving its mark on the building’s layered history.

Walking through the Barracks, visitors follow the same paths once taken by those who lived, laboured and survived here, gaining an intimate sense of daily life during Australia’s colonial beginnings.

Immersive Soundscapes and Personal Stories

What sets Hyde Park Barracks apart is its innovative approach to storytelling. Stirring soundscapes guide visitors through the space, bringing voices from the past into the present. These audio experiences share powerful personal stories of resilience, hardship and resistance, drawn from convicts, migrants and First Nations people whose lives were shaped by this place.

The self-guided experience allows visitors to move at their own pace, absorbing history through sound, space and atmosphere rather than traditional signage alone.

Artefacts That Tell Australia’s Story

Hyde Park Barracks

More than 4,000 original artefacts are on display throughout the Barracks, offering tangible connections to the people who once lived here. From everyday objects to deeply personal items, each artefact adds another layer to the story of Australia’s complex past.

Together, these objects help explore the ongoing impact of colonisation on First Nations peoples, encouraging reflection and understanding alongside historical discovery.

A Must-Do Cultural Experience in Sydney

Hyde Park Barracks is widely regarded as one of Sydney’s must-do cultural attractions. Its award-winning immersive design brings history vividly to life without the need for maps or guided tours, making it accessible and engaging for visitors of all ages.

Best of all, entry is free, allowing everyone the opportunity to connect with this important chapter of Australia’s story in a meaningful and memorable way.

Plan Your Visit to Hyde Park Barracks

Hyde Park Barracks is located on Gadigal Country at Queens Square, Macquarie Street, Sydney NSW 2000. The site is open daily from 10am to 6pm, with last entry at 4.30pm. Its central location makes it easy to combine with a walk through Hyde Park or visits to nearby cultural landmarks.

For visitor information and updates, visit
https://mhnsw.au/visit-us/hyde-park-barracks/

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Tune In and Turn Up: 2PK and The ROK Bring the Parkes Elvis Festival to Your Ears

The 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival is not just a visual feast—it’s an audio celebration too! With 2PK and The ROK FM as official radio broadcast partners, the festival vibes are coming straight to your speakers, whether at home, on the road, or strolling down Main Street.

Live Updates and Elvis Hits All Week

Fans can catch live festival updates, classic Elvis tunes, highlights, and announcements all week long. From interviews with local and international Elvis Tribute Artists (ETAs) to real-time festival news, the airwaves are set to pulse with rock ’n’ roll energy.

On Friday, 9 January from 7 AM to 10 AM, 2PK and The ROK will simulcast live from Clarinda Street, bringing the excitement of the Pott’s Removals Pop-Up Stage to listeners across the Central West. This includes live interviews with performers and special behind-the-scenes insights you won’t want to miss.

About 2PK and The ROK

Radio 1404 2PK has been a cornerstone of Central West broadcasting since 1937, delivering local news, rural programs such as Country Magazine and Talkin’ Sport, and music that resonates with every generation.

95.5 The ROK, part of the Super Radio Network, has been connecting Parkes listeners with engaging hits and community-focused programs since 1997. Together, these stations bring local flair, festival energy, and Elvis magic directly to the community.

Celebrating Community Through Music

By broadcasting live and supporting on-street sound during the festival, 2PK and The ROK ensure that everyone feels part of the Parkes Elvis Festival, whether they are at the heart of the action or tuning in from afar. Their dedication to community engagement and music makes them the perfect partners for this iconic celebration.

A huge thank you to 2PK and The ROK for amplifying the Elvis spirit across the Central West and beyond!

Learn more about the festival and tune in: Parkes Elvis Festival

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Selwyn Snow Resort Shines: A Strong 2025 Season Sets the Benchmark

Selwyn Snow Resort

Nestled in the heart of the Snowy Mountains, Selwyn Snow Resort has wrapped up its 2025 winter season on a high note. Known as one of Australia’s most welcoming and beginner-friendly alpine destinations, Selwyn once again proved its strength as a favourite for families, school groups and first-time snow visitors seeking a safe, supportive and memorable snow experience.

The 2025 season highlighted Selwyn’s continued evolution, with strong demand across all areas of the resort and a clear focus on accessibility, efficiency and guest enjoyment.

A Standout Year for First-Time Snow Visitors

Throughout the winter months, Selwyn Snow Resort welcomed a high volume of guests experiencing snow for the very first time. Families, school groups and beginner skiers and snowboarders made up a significant portion of visitation, reinforcing Selwyn’s reputation as an ideal introduction to alpine adventures.

Demand remained consistent across lift access, equipment rentals, snowsports lessons and food and beverage outlets. The resort’s clear guest flow design and approachable layout helped create a stress-free environment, allowing newcomers to build confidence and enjoy their time on the mountain.

Refined Operations and Seamless Guest Flow

Behind the scenes, the 2025 season saw continued refinement across all operational departments. Improved coordination between Guest Services, Rentals, Snowsports, Lift Operations, Ski Patrol and Food and Beverage played a key role in maintaining smooth on-mountain operations during busy peak periods.

A strong emphasis was placed on safety, staff training and communication, ensuring guests felt supported from arrival through to their final run of the day. This operational harmony contributed to shorter wait times, clearer information and a consistently positive guest experience.

Safety, Training and On-Mountain Excellence

Safety remained a top priority throughout the season, with well-trained teams working collaboratively to manage visitor flow and respond efficiently to on-mountain needs. Ongoing staff development and clear operational procedures supported Selwyn’s commitment to delivering a safe and welcoming environment for guests of all ages and abilities.

These efforts were particularly important during peak school holiday periods, when maintaining calm, organised operations is essential to guest satisfaction.

Looking Ahead to the 2026 Snow Season

With the 2025 season now complete, planning for 2026 is already underway. Selwyn Snow Resort is focused on building upon the solid foundations established this year, with further improvements planned across guest experience, system efficiencies and operational processes.

Enhancements to staff training, guest information delivery and behind-the-scenes workflows are central to preparations, ensuring Selwyn continues to evolve in line with the needs of modern snow travellers.

A Resort Committed to Growth and Guest Experience

Season after season, Selwyn Snow Resort remains committed to delivering a safe, accessible and memorable alpine experience. The success of the 2025 winter season reflects a clear vision, strong teamwork and an unwavering focus on guests, positioning Selwyn as a standout destination in the Australian snow industry.

Selwyn Snow Resort

Snowy Mountains, New South Wales
Website: https://www.selwynsnow.com.au

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All Shook Up in Parkes: Fuel Up for an Unforgettable Elvis Festival Kick-Off

Parkes is gearing up for a week of non-stop music, celebration and classic rock ’n’ roll as the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival roars into town. With long days, late nights and a packed program ahead, visitors are encouraged to fuel up on great coffee, hearty meals and high-energy entertainment as the festival launches in spectacular style.

Fuel Up for Festival Week

With so much happening across town, keeping your energy levels high is essential. Parkes offers a wide range of cafés, restaurants, clubs and pubs ready to serve everything from early-morning coffee to relaxed dinners and late-night bites. Whether you need plenty of beans to start your day or a satisfying meal between events, Parkes Shire’s dining scene ensures festival-goers are well looked after throughout the week.

Sampling local venues is also part of the Parkes experience, with friendly service and welcoming atmospheres adding to the town’s reputation as one of regional New South Wales’ most popular festival destinations.

Day One Delivers a Show to Remember

The 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival kicks off with a powerful opening concert that sets the tone for the days ahead. Taking place on day one, this headline performance promises to leave audiences all shook up from the first note to the final encore.

Fresh from unveiling his star on the Elvis Wall of Fame and winning the Parkes Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest, Josuel Grech from Malta headlines the show. His 90-minute performance delivers pure Elvis magic, capturing the sound, style and charisma that have made him an international favourite.

Joining him on stage is special guest Toki Toyokazu from Japan, a fellow Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist champion. Together, backed by a full live band, they bring international flair, passion and energy to an electrifying concert experience.

An Iconic Venue and Festival Atmosphere

Hosted at the Parkes Services Club, the opening concert offers a comfortable and lively setting, complete with bar service and a buzzing crowd of Elvis fans from near and far. Doors open at 1:00pm, with showtime at 1:30pm, making it the perfect way to launch an Elvis-filled week in Parkes.

This landmark event is proudly supported by Parkes Courier Service, highlighting the strong local backing that helps make the festival one of Australia’s most celebrated music events.

Why Parkes Is the Ultimate Elvis Destination

The Parkes Elvis Festival blends world-class tribute performances with regional hospitality, great food and a welcoming community spirit. From the opening concert to the final farewell, the festival offers visitors a reason to stay longer, explore more and fully immerse themselves in the magic of Elvis.

With tickets selling fast, now is the time to plan your trip, book your events and prepare for a week that celebrates the King like nowhere else.

2026 Parkes Elvis Festival

Opening Concert Tickets: https://bit.ly/theultimatetribute
Official Website: https://www.parkeselvisfestival.com.au/

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Fuel Up in Parkes: Where to Eat, Drink and Recharge During Festival Week

When Parkes comes alive with visitors and entertainment, good food and great coffee become essential parts of the experience. Whether you are powering through long days of events or easing into a relaxed evening, Parkes Shire offers an impressive range of dining options designed to keep festival-goers energised, satisfied and coming back for more.

Coffee Stops to Keep You Going

For many visitors, the day begins with a caffeine fix, and Parkes delivers in style. Local cafés and coffee shops are known for their friendly service, quality beans and welcoming atmosphere. From early-morning espresso to a mid-afternoon recharge, you will find plenty of places to pause, refuel and soak up the buzz of town during festival week.

Stylish interiors, shaded outdoor seating and convenient central locations make Parkes cafés ideal meeting points between events.

Hearty Meals and Relaxed Dining

Parkes Shire caters to all appetites, from classic pub meals to first-class restaurant dining. Visitors can enjoy generous bistro favourites, relaxed club dining, or sit-down restaurant experiences that showcase local hospitality and seasonal flavours.

During festival week, many venues embrace the fun with Elvis-themed menus and creative specials, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to every meal. Whether dining solo, with friends or as a family, Parkes offers a consistently high-quality food scene that suits every taste and budget.

A Complete Guide to Where to Eat

To make planning easy, visitors are encouraged to explore the online directory of restaurants, bars, clubs and cafés across Parkes Shire. This handy guide helps festival-goers quickly find the perfect spot for breakfast, lunch, dinner or a late-night bite.

Printed dining guides are also available from the Parkes Visitor Information Centre, making it simple to discover new favourites while exploring the town.

Make Dining Part of the Parkes Experience

Food is an essential part of any great trip, and in Parkes it is woven into the festival atmosphere. Sampling local venues, chatting with friendly hosts and enjoying themed menus all add to the sense of community that makes Parkes such a popular destination.

From quick snacks to long, relaxed meals, dining in Parkes is about more than eating well; it is about experiencing the town at its best.

2026 Parkes Elvis Festival

Where to Eat Directory: https://bit.ly/PEFeat

Parkes Visitor Information Centre
Phone: (02) 6862 6000
Email: elvis@parkes.nsw.gov.au

https://www.parkeselvisfestival.com.au/

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Channel the King: Parkes Elvis Festival Tribute Competitions

For fans of Elvis Presley, the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival offers a chance to step into the spotlight and embrace your inner King. The festival’s tribute competitions celebrate talent, showmanship and the enduring legacy of Elvis, giving performers of all ages a platform to shine in front of a lively audience.

Junior “Elvis Idol” Competition

Young Elvis enthusiasts under 15 are invited to take the stage for the Junior “Elvis Idol” Competition. Set for Saturday, 10 January at 1:00pm, this free-to-enter event encourages budding performers to showcase their vocal skills, charisma and love for the King’s music. It’s a fun and supportive environment, perfect for building confidence and sharing the magic of Elvis with a new generation.

Senior Tribute to Elvis Competition

For performers aged 16 and above, the Senior Tribute to Elvis Competition is a chance to compete for prizes and recognition on Sunday, 11 January at 11:30am. With a $25 entry fee, this competition invites serious tribute artists and dedicated fans alike to deliver memorable performances, from classic hits to energetic showmanship, celebrating the legacy of Elvis Presley in style.

Pre-Register and Prepare to Shine

Both competitions require pre-registration, allowing performers to secure their spot and prepare their routines ahead of time. Whether you’re a young star ready to impress or a seasoned tribute performer, these competitions are a highlight of the Parkes Elvis Festival calendar and a chance to become part of the festival’s legendary atmosphere.

Why Participate

The Parkes Elvis Festival tribute competitions provide more than a stage—they create memories. Participants experience the thrill of live performance, the excitement of festival crowds, and the joy of celebrating one of music’s most iconic figures. Families and fans can enjoy watching performances, cheering on contestants, and feeling the energy that only a festival like Parkes can deliver.

For registration and details, visit
https://www.parkeselvisfestival.com.au/
Pre-register here: bit.ly/PEFtributecomps

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Sky-High Bangkok: Discover the Iconic King Power Mahanakhon

King Power Mahanakhon

Rising dramatically above the streets of Thailand’s capital, the King Power Mahanakhon building has become one of Bangkok’s most recognisable landmarks. More than just a skyscraper, this striking architectural icon represents the city’s bold spirit, blending innovation, luxury and unforgettable experiences into one must-visit destination.

A New Symbol of Modern Bangkok

The King Power Mahanakhon stands as a powerful symbol of Bangkok’s transformation into a global metropolis. Its distinctive pixelated design breaks away from traditional skyscraper forms, creating a silhouette that is instantly identifiable on the city skyline.

Located in the vibrant Silom and Sathorn district, the tower reflects Bangkok’s dynamic character, where historic temples and river life sit alongside cutting-edge architecture and contemporary culture.

An Attraction That Redefines City Views

At the heart of the King Power Mahanakhon experience is its world-class observation deck, offering panoramic views across Bangkok. From this lofty vantage point, visitors can see the city stretch endlessly in every direction, revealing the contrast between dense urban neighbourhoods, green pockets and the winding Chao Phraya River.

The building’s glass skywalk adds a thrilling dimension to the visit, allowing guests to look directly down at the city below. It has quickly become one of Bangkok’s most photographed attractions and a highlight for travellers seeking memorable experiences.

A Hub of Lifestyle, Dining and Entertainment

Beyond the views, King Power Mahanakhon is a lifestyle destination in its own right. The building is home to premium dining venues, stylish cafés and retail experiences that cater to both locals and international visitors.

From fine dining with skyline views to relaxed eateries at street level, the tower offers multiple ways to experience Bangkok’s evolving food and entertainment scene within one iconic setting.

Why King Power Mahanakhon Is a Must-Visit

King Power Mahanakhon

The appeal of King Power Mahanakhon lies in its ability to capture the essence of modern Bangkok. It is a place where architecture meets experience, and where travellers can gain a new perspective on the city’s scale, energy and ambition.

Whether visiting by day to admire the sprawling cityscape or at night to see Bangkok illuminated, the experience leaves a lasting impression and reinforces why the city continues to attract visitors from around the world.

Planning Your Visit to King Power Mahanakhon

King Power Mahanakhon is easily accessible by public transport and is conveniently located near Chong Nonsi BTS station. Visitors are advised to check opening hours and ticket options in advance to make the most of their visit.

For visitor information and ticket details, visit
https://kingpowermahanakhon.co.th/

114 Narathiwas Road, Silom, Bangrak, Bangkok 10500
The main entrance is located on Narathiwas Road.
Email: contact.kpmn@kingpower.com
Tel: (662) 677 8721

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World-Class Elvis Tribute Takes Centre Stage at the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival

Ultimate Elvis Tribute Show

The Parkes Elvis Festival has long been one of Australia’s most iconic music and nostalgia events, transforming the heart of regional New South Wales into a celebration of rock ’n’ roll culture each January. In 2026, the festival raises the bar again with the introduction of a brand-new highlight, the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Show, delivering an unforgettable experience for fans, visitors and music lovers alike.

A Brand-New Must-See Festival Experience

Making its debut at the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival, the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Show promises to be one of the most talked-about events on the program. Featuring two past Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist winners, Josuel Grech and Toki Toyokazu, this exclusive performance brings together extraordinary talent and global recognition on one stage.

Both artists are celebrated internationally for their vocal power, stage presence and deep respect for Elvis Presley’s musical legacy. Their performances capture the energy, charisma and sound that made Elvis a global icon, offering audiences an authentic and electrifying tribute experience.

International Talent Meets Regional Australia

Josuel Grech and Toki Toyokazu are regarded as world-class Elvis tribute performers, each bringing their own unique interpretation of the King of Rock ’n’ Roll. Their appearance at the Parkes Elvis Festival reinforces the event’s reputation as one of the leading Elvis celebrations outside the United States.

For festivalgoers, this show is more than a concert. It is a rare opportunity to witness internationally acclaimed performers in an intimate regional setting, adding further prestige to the 2026 festival lineup.

Supported by Local Business Excellence

The Ultimate Elvis Tribute Show is proudly sponsored by Parkes Courier Service, a business that has been supporting the local community for more than 27 years. Their involvement highlights the vital role regional businesses play in keeping major cultural events thriving.

Parkes Courier Service has built a strong reputation for fast, efficient and dependable transport solutions across Parkes and surrounding districts. Their services include local freight, parcel and pallet deliveries, same-day and next-day courier options within a 100 kilometre radius, and tailored logistics solutions for everything from small packages to heavy freight.

This commitment to reliability and professionalism makes Parkes Courier Service a trusted choice for businesses and residents throughout the region.

A Festival That Celebrates Community and Culture

The Parkes Elvis Festival is not only about music and entertainment. It is a celebration of community spirit, regional pride and shared passion. The support of local sponsors such as Parkes Courier Service ensures the festival continues to grow, attract international attention and deliver high-quality experiences year after year.

With new events, global performers and strong community backing, the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival is shaping up to be one of the most exciting editions yet.

Plan Your Visit to the 2026 Parkes Elvis Festival

Whether you are a lifelong Elvis fan, a lover of live music or a traveller seeking a unique Australian festival experience, the Ultimate Elvis Tribute Show is an unmissable highlight. Combined with the festival’s vibrant street atmosphere, themed events and regional hospitality, Parkes is set to shine once again on the national stage.

For festival programs, tickets and event updates, visit
https://www.parkeselvisfestival.com.au/

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