Tuesday 19 March 2024

Thailand Tourism Festival 2024 takes place from 28 March to 1 April

In its 42nd edition, the event will continue its push towards more sustainable and net zero tourism while emphasising soft power and subculture.

The 42nd Thailand Tourism Festival is scheduled to take place from 28 March to 1 April 2024 at the Queen Sirikit National Convention Centre (QSNCC) in Bangkok.

Organised by the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), the event is set to present a plethora of distinctive tourism offerings with an emphasis on soft power and subculture. This year also marks the second time the event is holding a ‘Zero Waste to Landfills’ initiative in alignment with the push towards more sustainable and net zero tourism. The event is expected to attract 150,000 visitors and generate 20 million reaches.

Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, TAT Governor, said “The Thailand Tourism Festival 2024 will incorporate distinctive identity and attractions from five regions to inspire travellers to explore new travel experiences across the country. The event will also reiterate sustainable tourism practices while leveraging digital transformation and the ‘partnership 360 strategy’ to encourage year-round travel.”

Joining the TAT Governor at today’s press conference were Mr. Somchai Chompoonoi, TAT Executive Director of Eastern Region, Mr. Akkarawit Taphasit, TAT Executive Director of Central Region, Miss Pattaraanong Na Chiangmai, TAT Executive Director of Northern Region, Miss Wajanan Silpawornwiwat, TAT Executive Director of Southern region, and Mr. Auttaphol Wannakij, TAT Executive Director of Northeastern Region.

Putting sustainability front and centre, TAT recognises the importance of organising an environmentally sustainable event. In its second year of promoting a ‘Zero Waste to Landfills’ concept, TAT is partnering with QSNCC, PTT Global Chemical, Cirplas and N15 Technology on waste management. Throughout the event’s venue, there will be 20 waste separation stations with Thai and English signages as well as staff to encourage visitor’s participation.

Last year, the ‘Zero Waste to Landfills’ activity successfully separated 12,271 kilogrammes of waste for proper disposal process, thus helping to reduce the carbon footprint by 27,420 kilo carbons, or equivalent to the absorption of carbon dioxide by 3,046 trees per year.

The Thailand Tourism Festival 2024 will showcase tourism offerings from the Central, Eastern, Northern, Northeastern (Isan), and Southern regions of Thailand, including various fascinating innovations and experiences in nine prominent zones.

Zone 1: The Amazing Thailand Zone will feature innovative technologies with a gigantic 360-degree LED Box and an Amazing Thailand VR Dome presenting virtual travel experiences. Visitors will have the chance to chat with TAT’s VISTA Virtual Influencer as well as well-known travel influencers, enjoy coffee and fun games, shop for Amazing Thailand-branded souvenirs, and obtain interesting travel information at the 1672 Travel Buddy counter.

Zone 2: The ‘Colourful Burapha’ Eastern Village will highlight the region’s famous landmarks, such as Bang Bao Lighthouse of Trat’s Ko Chang and gemstones of Chanthaburi, outstanding dishes and seasonal fruits. Other activities include LED screening of hidden gem destinations, music performances, Alcazar Cabaret Show, and a range of DIY activities.

Zone 3: The ‘Klang Buri’ Central Village will feature top landmarks, such as the King Narai’s Palace in Lop Buri and traditional Thai house in a ‘temple fair’ theme with Songkran festivities and floating market. Food will be plenty at this zone, along with distinctive Muay Lop Buri show, Khon masked drama by youth performers, and folk entertainment.

Zone 4: The ‘Faithival’ Northern Village will highlight the legends of the region’s Songkran traditions in combination with soft power in a Northern-style temple fair theme. Traditional Northen dishes will be offered at a local style market along with coffee, tea and cocoa drinks, handicraft products, and DIY activities.

Zone 5: The Southern Village will showcase multicultural traditions with hourly light-and-sound shows, VR180 virtual reality experiences, and outstanding dishes. Enjoy traditional performances, music concerts and DIY activities.

Zone 6: The “Isan Festi’ Northeastern Village will share the fun and colourful character of the region, showcasing soft power, including Bun Bung Fai Talai Lan and Phi Ta Phon festivals. Enjoy distinctive local dishes, arts and crafts, DIY activities, folk dances, music performances, and the region’s homegrown 100-million-Baht movie.

Zone 7: The Thai Tourism Alliances Zone will present tourism stories from TAT’s partners, including the Designated Areas for Sustainable Tourism Administration, Electricity Generating Authority of Thailand, Ministry of Culture, Thai Chamber of Commerce, Thailand Post, Tourist Police, National Astronomical Research Institute of Thailand, and PTT Public Company Limited. Special travel deals and discounts on tourism products and services from tourism organisations will be offered at the TAT Marketplace.

Zone 8: The Main Stage will feature cultural and contemporary performances, including Khon and Nora dance dramas, contemporary dances, Miss Thailand Tourism Festival beauty pageant, fashion shows, and music performances by famous Thai artists and celebrities.

Zone 9: The Sustainable Tourism Goals (STGs) Zone will reiterate responsible tourism with a sustainable ‘Mindcraft tree’ under the ‘STGs to Net Zero Carbon Tourism’ concept. It will highlight TAT’s various sustainable tourism initiatives, including the STGs, STAR certification, CF-Hotels, the Thailand Tourism Awards, and low-carbon tourism routes.

Visitors are encouraged to use the MRT underground to the QSNCC Station or taxi or Bus No. 136 to participate in the Thailand Tourism Festival 2024, from 28 March to 1 April, from 10-00-21.00 Hrs. Entrance is free. For more information, contact the TAT Contact Center 1672 Travel Buddy.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo

Experience the ultimate zoofari at Taronga Western Plains Zoo in Dubbo Australia! Whether you walk, drive your own car, or ride around the Zoo's five-kilometre circuit on hired bikes or carts, there's so much to see and do.

The Zoo is home to hundreds of rare and endangered animals including giraffes, rhinos, elephants and big cats. Daily keeper activities (included in zoo entry) and special tours deliver magical experiences you will never forget.

Tickets are valid for two consecutive days, giving you ample time to experience all that is on offer.

The Zoo's free access Savannah Visitor Plaza includes a shop, playground and cafe overlooking the Savannah Lake and Primate Island, home to Black-handed Spider Monkeys and Ring-tailed Lemurs.

For the ultimate zoofari, experience African style Zoofari Lodge, self-contained Savannah Cabins, or a camping adventure at Billabong Camp.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Dubbo

Location: Obley Road Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo NSW 2830 Australia
(02) 6881 1400
twpz@zoo.nsw.gov.au
https://taronga.org.au/dubbo-zoo
Book now

Monday 18 March 2024

Victoria sweeps 2023 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards

The Woods Oceran Grove
The creativity, innovation and passion of many Victorian tourism businesses has been recognised on the national stage, with 12 Victorian businesses getting a gong at the 2023 Qantas Australian Tourism Awards last night.

I was delighted to join Tourism Australia, ATIC and VTIC and all the finalists representing Victoria at the awards, which was wonderful celebration of the diversity of our State’s visitor economy. There are many different bits of our sector, all doing things very differently. It’s what makes us – every bit different.


And the winners are:

Gold:

  • Self Contained Accommodation – The Woods Ocean Grove
  • 3 – 3.5 Star Accommodation – Urban Camp Melbourne

Silver: 

  • Major Festivals and Events – Tesselaar KaBloom
  • 5 Star Luxury Accommodation – Chocolate Gannets
  • Excellence in Accessible Tourism – Accessible Accommodation

Bronze:

  • Major Tourist Attractions – Zoos Victoria - Melbourne Zoo
  • Cultural Tourism – Geelong Gallery
  • Tourism Retail, Hire and Services – Go Adventure Nagambie
  • Major Tour & Transport Operators – Searoad Ferries
  • Tourism Wineries, Distilleries & Breweries – Billson’s Brewery
  • Caravan & Holiday Parks – NRMA Phillip Island Beachfront Holiday Park
  • Hosted Accommodation – Kangaroo Ridge Retreat

Commenting on the awards, the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said, “Congratulations to all the Victorian finalists who work so hard every day to showcase our state to the world – and deliver significant benefits to their local communities.”

Well done to all operators who represented Victoria at the awards.

It is businesses like these that are helping our State's visitor economy go from strength to strength, with visitor expenditure reaching a record $36.9 billion for the year ending September 2023 – and Tourism Research Australia forecasting a further $16 billion in capacity for growth by 2028.

Visit Victoria is privileged in our role to keep building and driving demand in Melbourne and regional Victoria through our new global tourism campaign, Every bit different, and blockbuster major, business and regional events calendars.

Brendan McClements, CEO, Visit Victoria

“Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024” set to be among top 10 global events

It will take place from 11-15 April in Bangkok, along the Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue and at Sanam Luang, with the highlight being the Maha Songkran Parade, featuring 20 grand processions and more than 1,000 performers.

The Ministry of Tourism and Sports, together with the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Interior, and the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), officially announced that the “Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024” extravaganza will take place from 11-15 April in Bangkok, along the Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue and at Sanam Luang.

The event is set to illustrate the rich culture and tradition of Thai soft power with spectacular Songkran parades and celebrations.

Culture Minister, Mr. Sermsak Pongpanit, said “The Ministry of Culture is proud to support the staging of Songkran celebrations in Bangkok, and five other unique locations, namely Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Samut Prakan, Chon Buri, and Phuket, to celebrate its UNESCO ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage’ status and to help promote Thai soft power to a global recognition.”

The Department of Cultural Promotion, Ministry of Culture has appointed Miss Antonia Porsild, Miss Universe 2023 first runner-up, as Mahodhara Devi, the Nang Songkran goddess of 2024. It is also launching a calendar of Songkran 2024 celebrations in different locations nationwide. In addition, it has composed the Songkran songs in Thai, English, Chinese, and French to enhance the awareness of the festival’s cultural heritage.

Tourism and Sports Minister, Ms. Sudawan Wangsuphakijkosol, said “The government places festivals at the core of its Thai soft power promotion with an aim to push Songkran to become one of the top 10 global festivals. The ‘Maha Songkran Parade’ with over 20 grand processions featuring more than 1,000 performers that will be marching along the Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue to Sanam Luang, where the rich culture and tradition of Thai soft power will be illustrated will surely create an ever-lasting memory for visitors from all over the world, thus making Songkran a major fixture in the global event calendar.”

TAT Governor, Ms. Thapanee Kiatphaibool, said “The Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 extravaganza will showcase Thai traditions and cultural values to the world. The event will be broadcast globally via CNN, BBC and iQIYI. International celebrities and influencers will be invited to experience Songkran in Thailand and ultimately inspire their fans and followers to embark on a journey to create and share their own “Amazing Thailand: Your Stories Never End.”

Deputy Minister of Interior, Mr. Kriang Kantinan, said “The government has instructed authorities to strictly enforce the rules and regulations with measures and guidelines in place to ensure prompt responses to any accidents, crime and threats to the life and property of tourists. We also ask Thais to be a good host and help ensure the good image of Thailand and boost tourist confidence in our safety and security measures.”

The Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024 will be held from 11-15 April along Ratchadamnoen Klang Avenue and at Sanam Luang in Bangkok.

The highlight is the ‘Maha Songkran Parade’ on 11 April, starting from the Phan Fa Lilat Bridge and concluding at Sanam Luang, featuring 20 grand processions and more than 1,000 performers.

Leading the parade will be the processions of maha Songkran, followed by distinctive Songkran traditions of 16 provinces. These include Chiang Mai, Khon Kaen, Chon Buri, Samut Prakan, and Nakhon Si Thammarat whose unique traditions Thailand is preparing to enlist as ‘Intellectual Property Festivals’; five other model provinces – Chiang Rai, Nong Khai, Phitsanulok, Songkhla and Buri Ram; and six other provinces where local Songkran traditions will be further promoted – Ayutthaya, Nakhon Phanom, Lampang, Loei, Sukhothai and Phuket. Other grand processions include ‘Soft Power’ which features Fashion, Games, Films and Series, and Festivals.

Throughout five days, Sanam Luang will be the main location for the Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024. Cultural and musical performances including Khon masked drama and Nora dance drama – both recognised by UNESCO as Intangible Cultural Heritage performing arts – as well as contemporary and orchestra performances will be taking place at the main stage.

Songkran traditions and festivities unique to the Northern, Northeastern, Eastern, Central and Southern regions of Thailand will be on display at a dedicated zone. In relation to this are activities and showcases as well as DIY workshops of local arts and handicrafts from the five regions.

There will also be displays and activities related to Thai soft power including Muay Thai Maha Songkran and Thai summer dishes.

Amazing splash activities will be at the water zone with musical dancing fountain, water tunnel, gigantic wading pool, and water station.

Other activities include a drone show and a fair selling local products from across the country.

On 13 April, the traditional Thai New Year, there will be a merit-making ceremony and other activities promoting Thai traditions, including the Song Nam Phra ritual of purifying a Buddha image with scented water as a way of paying respect to the Lord Buddha and bringing good fortune to the person and the Rot Nam Dam Hua ritual – where young people prepare scented water with which to wash their parents’ or elders’ hands to ask for blessing.

Recognising the importance of organising an environmentally sustainable event, TAT, in partnership with PTT Global Chemical, organises a GCYOU Turn activity for plastic waste management. Visitors are encouraged to discard waste plastic bottles at any of the 20 ‘YOU Turn Drop Points’ for a souvenir or join in DIY upcycling activities such as turning plastic bottle caps into a keychain, bracelet, necklace or bottle opener, or buy upcycling products such as floral printed shirts made of plastic waste.

TAT expects the “Maha Songkran World Water Festival 2024” will inspire more travel and tourism activities during 12-16 April, resulting in 24.42 billion Bath in overall tourism revenue, an increase of 18% when compared to the same period in 2023.

This constitutes 8.76 billion Baht from international tourism and 15.66 billion Baht from domestic tourism with 510,000 visitor arrivals and 4.29 million domestic trips. Songkran celebrations in Bangkok are expected to generate 3.69 billion Baht in revenue and attract 653,590 domestic trips.

Going up, going down: Event trends in 2024

Lauren Hayward, managing director of Sydney-based Forum Group Events & Marketing, runs the rule over what’s in and what’s out for the year ahead.

Going up

Personalised experiences

Event attendees can now choose how they attend events: virtually or physically, and live or on-demand. This is going to be further curated to attendees’ personal needs and interests. Technology and AI is allowing for tailored content, networking opportunities and personalised agendas.

Non-alcoholic beverages and health-conscious food

Tying in with the sustainability ethos that’s trending, delegates are becoming increasingly conscious of their food and beverage choices. With statistics indicating Gen Z consumes 20 per cent less alcohol than previous generations, and an increase in plant-based and cruelty free dietary preferences, we will see more diverse offerings that cater to these needs. For example, sophisticated mocktails as standard, as opposed to regular alcohol-free beer.

Nostalgic party themes

With physical events back at the forefront and an emphasis on networking and shared experiences over content, we are seeing clients revisiting nostalgic party themes such as the ’90s and early 2000s. It provides a feeling of nostalgia and belonging, helping to bring people back together again.

Vibrant colours

Conservative and subdued colours are being replaced with vibrant and playful shades. Bright teal and metallics are in so we are going bold and confident this year!

Going down

Short lead times

We are finally seeing more forward planning for events, with companies feeling less hesitation, and planning their year in advance. This 365-day approach helps foster a sense of community and build momentum and engagement.

Getting maximum bums on seats

Focus is now on quality over quantity. Holding smaller, more niche and specialised events allows for deeper engagement and meaningful connections within targeted communities, as opposed to holding large-scale events that lack a personal touch and sense of real belonging.

Fixed seating and rigid event environments

Gone are the days of inflexible event spaces and fixed seating. Event spaces need to adapt to the needs and preferences of attendees in real time to create tailored experiences for different moments within an event.

Lack of cross-promotion across marketing and sales teams

It’s more important than ever that marketing and sales teams are unified in promoting their events to make the most of limited budgets and create maximum value for customers.

This story appears in the Autumn issue of Spice, which is out now.

Sunday 17 March 2024

Summer splendour with cooling Khao Chae at Balcony Lounge

During this hot summer weather, the ancient Thai tradition of Khao Chae is especially welcome. Throughout April, InterContinental Bangkok is serving this chilled delicacy in the serene and elegant setting of Balcony Lounge.

Khao Chae first emerged as a royal court dish during the era of King Rama II, and today is a classic favourite. Guests can enjoy this cool, refreshing jasmine rice in fragrant chilled water, served with contrasting savoury condiments including stuffed shallots with fish, shredded sweetened pork, and deep-fried shrimp paste ball.

The Khao Chae set is served every day from 1st to 30th April, 2024 at Balcony Lounge, between 11.00 and 17.00 hours, priced at THB 460 per set.

For reservations and inquiries, please contact InterContinental Bangkok at dining.bkkhb@ihg.com or by calling +66 (0) 2 656 0444.

For more information, please visit intercontinental.com/bangkok.

Where to see Aussie animals in the wild

Exceptional Kangaroo Island
Australia hosts some of the planet’s most amazing wildlife. No matter where you travel in this incredible continent, you're never far away from seeing diverse Aussie animals in their natural habitats — whether you book a guided tour or explore on your own. Wondering where to go to kick back with kangaroos and koalas, swim alongside whale sharks and humpback whales or watch penguins waddle across a windswept beach? Read on for our top tips on the best places to see Australia’s cutest, quirkiest and most iconic critters in the wild.

Kangaroo Island, SA

Hoping to see Australia’s most iconic marsupials in the wild? Not surprisingly, Kangaroo Island is one of the best places to spot its namesake mammal, along with a host of other native species including tammar wallabies, echidnas, possums, and an incredible diversity of birds in their natural habitat.

A good guided tour should take you through Flinders Chase National Park – a great place to see kangaroos, as well as thousands of New Zealand fur seals beneath the arch at Cape du Couedic – while another must-see is Seal Bay Conservation Park, where you can watch Australian sea lions frolicking on the beach.
Where to stay: YHA Adelaide Central

Cairns region, QLD

Sitting between two of Australia’s richest ecosystems, the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, Cairns is a great base to explore Tropical North Queensland and its diverse ecology.

The Great Barrier Reef is the pinnacle of underwater wildlife viewing. Book a diving, snorkeling or glass-bottom boat experience to see thousands of weird and wonderful species – from manta rays and Maori wrasse to green sea turtles, dolphins and dugongs.

Trek along the Daintree trails to spot rare rainforest species. If you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of the shy southern cassowary, the world’s third tallest bird. Planning a Queensland road trip? You can also look for cassowaries at the side of the main road into Mission Beach, just two hours south of Cairns, and along the Dreaming Trail in Djiru National Park.
Where to stay: YHA Cairns Central

Port Lincoln, SA

If you’re feeling adventurous, head to Port Lincoln for an exhilarating wildlife adventure beneath the waves. Here, you might come face to face with playful sea lions while snorkelling in these clear southern waters. Since you're snorkelling, you won't need a diving certification, and if you're lucky enough to encounter these cheeky aquatic mammals, it'll quickly be apparent why they're known as the 'puppy dogs of the sea'.

Nearby, Port Lincoln and Coffin Bay National Parks are known for their dazzling array of birdlife, from raptors to wrens and rainbow lorikeets. Land critters are also abundant. Keep an eye out for kangaroos, koalas, goannas, emus, and more.

North Stradbroke Island, QLD

North Stradbroke Island (‘Straddie’), not far from Brisbane, is a gorgeous natural playground offering excellent wildlife viewing on land and in the sea. Dive trips to Manta Bommie, one of the country’s premier dive sites, offer the chance to see manta rays, leopard sharks, eagle rays, wobbegongs, and sea turtles all up close on the rocky reef. Not a certified diver? No worries. You can still see marine life snorkelling around these subtropical waters.

You’ll also see plenty of Aussie wildlife on land at Stradbroke, from kangaroos and wallabies to koalas and echidnas.
Where to stay: YHA Stradbroke Island

Kakadu National Park, NT

Home to one-third of Australian bird species and over 50 different species of mammals, Kakadu is a prime location to witness Australia’s staggering biodiversity. Among the many fantastic animals to spot are rock wallabies, flying foxes and the rare northern quoll.

Kakadu’s wetlands are also a wonderland for wildlife. The rivers and vast floodplains are home to a dazzling variety of birds and both saltwater and freshwater crocodiles, which you can see safely from a distance from viewing platforms and commercial cruises along Yellow Water (Ngurrungurrudjba).

A multi-day tour with a reputable operator is a great way to experience the best the vast National Park has to offer. 

Cradle Mountain - Lake St. Clair National Park, TAS

Photo: Tourism Australia
Cradle Mountain’s dramatic, glacially formed landscapes are ideal for observing Tasmania’s unique wildlife. Among the many Aussie animals to look out for here are Tasmanian devils, quolls, echidnas and wombats.

If you want to truly immerse yourself in the wilderness, try tackling the Overland Track, a six-day alpine trek with excellent opportunities to see wildlife. The track comes to an end at the edge of Lake St. Clair, Australia’s deepest freshwater lake, where you can also spot pademelons and platypi. Cradle Mountain-Lake St. Clair National Park also offers plenty of shorter and less-demanding walking trails, so exploring the park’s wildlife should fit any itinerary.
Where to stay: YHA Hobart Central

Hervey Bay, QLD

Ever wanted to swim with whales? Head to Hervey Bay, the world’s first official Whale Heritage Site. It’s one of the best locations in the world to see humpback whales and these magnificent mammals use the bay as a nursery during their migration from late July through early November. Book a cruise to get up close and watch them perform spectacular out-of-water acrobatics – if your timing is right, you can even take a dip with these gentle giants.

Nearby K’gari (Fraser Island) is also home to a diverse array of wildlife, including dingos, swamp wallabies, brushtail possums, sand monitors and sugar gliders – be sure not to skip it!
Where to stay: YHA Hervey Bay

Phillip Island, VIC

Phillip Island’s rugged coastline is home to an array of incredible wildlife, including the largest little penguin (fairy penguin) colony in the world. You can see these pint-sized birds waddling up the beach any night after sunset during their famous Penguin Parade – viewable with a ranger or as a self-guided boardwalk tour.

Phillip Island also hosts Australia’s largest fur seal colony – see these charismatic creatures in their natural habitat on a wildlife cruise, and keep your eyes peeled for other native animals while in the area too, including swamp wallabies, bandicoots and Cape Barren geese.
Where to stay: YHA Phillip Island

Exmouth and Cape Range National Park, WA

If you thought wildlife in WA was just about the quokkas at Rottnest Island or the kangaroos on the beach at Lucky Bay, think again. Exmouth has two wildlife-rich ecosystems to explore: Ningaloo Reef and Cape Range National Park.

Along the Ningaloo Coast, you can enjoy one of the world’s best wildlife adventures: snorkelling with whale sharks. From March to July, ethical cruises let you swim alongside these graceful giants, while from July to October, humpback whales take their place as main snorkelling attraction. You may even be lucky enough to spot a sea turtle or dugong on your trip.

Meanwhile, on land, hike through Cape Range National Park to spot emus, dingoes, and red kangaroos – a distinctly Western Australian blend of fauna.
Where to stay: Excape Backpackers (YHA Exmouth)

Port Stephens, NSW

Image: Tourism NSW
Located just a 2.5-hour drive from Sydney, Port Stephens is an idyllic coastal haven for wildlife. Bottlenose dolphins and migrating whales are among the many marine animals that swim these clear, blue waters, and booking a cruise with one of the local companies is the best way to see them up close. You might also be able to spot pods of whales from land — pack your binoculars and take the Tomaree Head Summit walk for the best views.

Koala lovers take note: The nine-hectare Tilligerry Habitat in Port Stephens is one of the best places in New South Wales to see koalas in the wild. Stop by the visitor centre for koala-spotting tips before you wander the walking tracks, and keep an eye out for some of the 100-plus species of native birds. Admission is free.

If you don't have any luck spotting Australia’s cutest marsupials here, head to the Port Stephens Koala Sanctuary. The sanctuary’s dedicated staff rehabilitates sick, injured and orphaned koalas with the hope of returning them to the wild. Stroll along an elevated treetop canopy boardwalk to see these cuddly critters in the natural bushland, or book a guided tour to learn more about protecting this endangered species.
Where to stay: Samurai Beach Bungalows (Port Stephens YHA)

Honourable Mentions

Looking for somewhere not far from a major city? In Sydney, you're rarely more than an hour's drive from the tranquility of Pittwater – a bushland haven home to a wide variety of native creatures.

If you're visiting rural Victoria, Grampians National Park and Apollo Bay are both fantastic places to see kangaroos and koalas respectively. Furthermore, Victoria more generally is one of the best states for encountering koalas in the wild.
Words: K. Hastings for YHA

5 family-friendly hikes in Sydney

Arrunga Bardo Walk at Lake Parramatta Reserve, Parramatta
Spend a day immersed in nature on these family-friendly bushwalks – from easy, pram-friendly loops to more challenging walks with secret beaches, picnic areas and awe-inspiring views over Sydney. There is something for every age and ability.

1) Arrunga Bardo Walk at Lake Parramatta Reserve, Parramatta

Distance: 1.8km return
Time: 35 minutes
Difficulty: Fairly easy, formed track
Pram-friendly: No
Head to this reserve in Parramatta to discover a 73-hectare oasis where you can bushwalk, swim, picnic and play; an ideal opportunity to get kids of all ages into nature. The walk loops from the Arrunga Bardo Garden to the Calm Waters Lookout, with fine views of the river. Keep an eye out for cockatoos, sugar gliders, blue tongue lizards and maybe even an echidna. The garden has a selection of local native plants, most of which were valued for hunting, weaving, food and medicine by the Burramattagal People, the traditional owners of the land. There’s a playground, kiosk and swimming area nearby, too.
> See map

2) Narrabeen Lagoon Trail, Narrabeen

Narrabeen Lagoon, Narrabeen -
 Credit: Northern Beaches Council
Distance: 8.4km loop
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Easy, paved track
Pram-friendly: Yes
Winding through bush, parklands and rich eco-systems, with hundreds of species of birds and gorgeous views, this jewel of the Northern Beaches will make you feel a million miles from the city. Even though the whole loop is a little too long for younger kids, there are four picnic grounds (all with car parks) strategically placed along the trail, so you can start the circuit from any of these locations and just do a short section. Both Bilarong Reserve and Berry Reserve have playgrounds, and the latter has a cafe.
> See map

3) Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, Bondi

Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, Sydney
Distance: 6km one way
Time: 2-3 hours
Difficulty: Easy, paved track with some stairs
Pram-friendly: No
Sydney’s iconic coastal walk is a must. With the promise of a swim at the end (or on the way) and views across some of the city’s most famous beaches, the longer distance will feel like a breeze. Starting at Bondi Beach, admire the azure Bondi Icebergs pool as you head towards Tamarama Beach, stopping to look at the Aboriginal engravings at Marks Park. From there, follow the coastline to Bronte Beach, which has a gorgeous natural rock pool at the south end, popular with the little ones, and a much-loved kid’s train ride. Next up is Clovelly Beach and Gordons Bay, narrow inlets often busy with snorkellers and people sunbathing on the rocks. Before you know it, you’ll finish at Coogee Beach, home to four ocean pools, surrounding barbecues and grassland as well as plenty of places for lunch nearby.
> See map

4) Wulugul Walk, Barangaroo

Barangaroo Reserve, Barangaroo
Distance: 1.5km one way
Time: 25 minutes
Difficulty: Easy, paved track
Pram-friendly: Yes
A shared walking and cycling path between King Street Wharf and the northeastern tip of Barangaroo Reserve, this easy city track is a waterside haven in the city. If you start from the south end of the walk, you can finish with a picnic on the lawn among native trees with views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Up for a challenge with older kids? The entire foreshore walk stretches 11km from Anzac Bridge to Woolloomooloo.
> See map

5) Fairyland Loop Track in Lane Cove National Park, Chatswood West

Lane Cove National Park, Lane Cove
Distance: 5.3km loop
Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Difficulty: Moderately challenging, a variety of terrain
Pram-friendly: No
Lane Cove National Park, a pocket of bushland running along both sides of the Lane Cove River, is a remarkable nature oasis considering its urban surroundings. With plenty of picnic areas, playgrounds, and open grassy fields, it’s an excellent place to explore with your family. The Fairyland Loop Track can be commenced at different points – the Chatswood Rotary Athletics Field has free parking and a toilet – and then follows part of the Great North Walk towards Chatswood West, crossing the river and coming back up the other bank. Towards the end, you’ll bypass the Fairyland Pleasure Ground, a historic site of a 19th-century recreation area. Keep your eyes peeled and you might spot an echidna, wallaby or osprey, as well as plenty of other birds.
> See map

Saturday 16 March 2024

Melbourne announced as host of 2025 UFI Asia Pacific Conference

Melbourne, Australia has been confirmed as host of the 2025 UFI Asia Pacific (AP) Conference.

Announced at the 2024 UFI AP conference held in Macau, the 2025 event has been secured by the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre (MCEC), with the support of the Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB).

UFI is the global association of the exhibition industry, and currently has over 850 organisations in 87 countries and regions signed up as members, representing more than 50,000 exhibition industry professionals.

This year’s UFI AP Conference attracted close to 300 industry leaders from 22 countries.

The 2025 UFI AP Conference will be held in Melbourne on 13-14 February, immediately following the globally-renowned Asia-Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME). In addition, the Australian Business Events Association (ABEA), the country’s peak industry body, will be hosting a meeting at the MCEC in the same week.

Delivering all three events in the same week offers international delegates maximum value for their trip to Australia while drawing the attention of the global business events industry to Melbourne.

AIME, which will also be held at MCEC from 10-12 February 2025, attracts thousands of visitors from around the world. This year’s event emerged as the largest in a decade, welcoming more than 570 exhibitors, 600 hosted buyers and over 4,000 visitors to AIME 2024.

Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre Chief Executive Natalie O'Brien AM said: “As the premier event destination in the region, we’re thrilled to be the principal partner for the 2025 UFI Asia Pacific Conference at MCEC during what will now be a momentous week for the business events industry in the Asia Pacific region.

“Coordinating these three events to be held in the same week and in the same location is an incredible outcome achieved through outstanding collaboration and partnership.

“I thank the teams at UFI, MCB, AIME, and ABEA for their cooperation and commitment to making this happen.”

UFI CEO Kai Hattendorf said: “UFI’s Asia-Pacific Conference is our central annual event for the exhibition and business events industry from across Asia Pacific, and it attracts participants from the rest of the world as well.

We are thrilled to be bringing this flagship event to Australia for the first time, and look forward to connecting the Australian expo professionals with their international peers in the thriving city of Melbourne.

By bundling AIME, UFI, and ABEA activities within one week, we will create an international industry hot spot, and a not to be missed opportunity for everyone in the sector to come together to network, learn, and do business.”

Melbourne Convention Bureau Chief Executive Julia Swanson said: “Melbourne is renowned as Australia’s events capital. Our city is geared to hosting multiple events from the large-scale to intimate gatherings.

“Our infrastructure - the pinnacle of which is the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre gives rise to this, together with the country’s largest hotel inventory, easy to navigate city and an exceptional event supply chain to support the delivery of successful events, exhibitions and experiences for delegates.

“We are looking forward to welcoming the UFI Asia Pacific Conference in February 2025 at a time when our city will be buzzing with some of the regions most esteemed events taking place right here in the heart of Melbourne.”

Silke Calder, AIME Event Director said: "AIME is where the world meets in Asia Pacific, and now AIME 2025 attendees will have an added incentive for extending their stay next year when Melbourne plays host to the 2025 UFI AP Conference.”

“We are committed to strengthening connections with our global colleagues, and with the UFI AP Conference taking place straight after AIME, we couldn’t be more thrilled to give our Asia Pacific community another opportunity to explore our vibrant city and mingle with the business events community.”

Matt Pearce, Vice Chair, Australian Business Events Association said: “ABEA CEO, Melissa Brown, and UFI MD & CEO Kai Hattendorf met during AIME this year discussed ways to achieve the best possible outcome for the Business Events industry during the 2025 UFI APAC Conference at the MCEC. These discussions were continued during the UFI APAC conference in Macau last week.”

“These opportunities are rare, and the Australian Business Events Association is excited to be working alongside AIME to support UFI in delivering a positive and fruitful meeting for the industry.”

Kakadu Tourism launches new product, tours, Indigenous experiences and accommodation for 2024 season

Mercure Kakadu
Tourism Kakadu will introduce a range of innovations in 2024 designed to make discovering the unique landscape even more attractive and authentic.

Kakadu, located just under three hours drive from Darwin, is a living cultural landscape, and has been home to Aboriginal people for more than 65,000 years. Kakadu National Park is dual World Heritage listed for its outstanding natural and cultural values.

Spread across 20,000 square kilometres, Kakadu is renowned for its dramatic landscape, wildlife, and Aboriginal culture.

New initiatives being introduced in 2024 include:

Kakadu Adventure Tours

A new afternoon tour will be introduced to take advantage of the cooler evening hours and Kakadu’s spectacular sunsets. The tour explores the Indigenous communities of Kakadu, with guided cultural activities and a sunset experience from Nawurlandja lookout. The tour will operate from Cooinda Lodge between 3pm and 7pm. This will be complemented by a reformatted morning tour that will start from 7.30am and have guests back for lunch at Cooinda Lodge by 1pm, allowing for afternoon activities and relaxation. The guided tour will be customised to suit the group and conditions on the day, and will include visits to famous landmarks, swimming in water holes, and rock art tours.

Overnight Indigenous cultural experience

Visitors to Kakadu will have the opportunity to experience the culture of Kakadu from one of the region’s Traditional Owner families. The all-inclusive overnight package at Kakadu Billabong Safari Camp includes transfers from Cooinda, a cultural induction at Patonga community, cooked dinner and breakfast, as well as accommodation in a safari tent with a queen-sized bed. Visitors will be taught to forage and hunt for bush tucker, learn Indigenous crafts, and experience first-hand how the family group of the Murumburr Clan continue cultural practices, and manage the landscape and wildlife as their ancestors have done for thousands of years.

Yellow Water Cruises and Fishing

Yellow Water Cruises operate daily throughout the year on one of the most spectacular waterways in Australia. With over 250 bird species and a vast range of wildlife—including a large population of saltwater crocodiles—a cruise on Yellow Water Billabong is a ‘must’. In addition, Yellow Water Fishing returns this month with the option of a private guided charter, available daily from 11 a.m.

New Yellow Water Pop-Up Tents

A new pop-up camping experience at Kakadu is being introduced in time for Easter. From just $79 per night ($99 during peak season), guests can enjoy a camping experience without the hard work. The semi-permanent tents are equipped with two camp beds, and linen is supplied. The tents are Ideal for groups, with guests having access to all the facilities at Cooinda Lodge.

Mercure Crocodile Hotel introduces Manjmukmuk Restaurant & Bar

The Croc’s relaunched restaurant, Manjmukmuk, offers visitors a taste of Kakadu through its bush tucker influenced cuisine including NT barramundi, buffalo and kangaroo. Locally inspired drinks include green ant gins and non-alcoholic bellinis made from Kakadu native peach. An outdoor Ground Oven is available for groups and events.

New Online Shop for Ochre Art Gallery

The Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel’s own Ochre Art Gallery offers a wide selection of local Indigenous art and crafts that support Kakadu artists. A new online shopping tool will be introduced in May to enable lovers of authentic Kakadu art to buy items and ship them back home to have a permanent memory of Kakadu’s rich cultural heritage.

Cooinda offers more flexible accommodation and enhanced WiFi

Cooinda Lodge has reconfigured all of its rooms to allow the ultimate flexibility for accommodating couples, families and groups. All lodge rooms now offer a large queen bed, a single bed and a trundle bed, giving the capacity for up to four guests in every room. Enhanced WiFi has been extended for use in the Barra Bar, Mimi’s Restaurant and the outdoor dining area and ultra-fast WiFi is now available in the luxury Yellow Water Villas. Greater dining options will be available from May designed to suit tour group bookings, while more alfresco options will be available via the Too Deadly Fish ‘n’ Chips Van and BBQ Smokehouse during the high season.

Special 25% discount of rooms until the end of April – including Easter

Under a $1 million NT Government incentive scheme, bookings made through Tourism Top End for accommodation at Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, Cooinda Lodge, and Yellow Water Campground will attract a 25% discount. Travel must be booked and completed by 30 April, but the discounts are restricted to the $1 million total, so they are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

Kakadu Tourism is a fully Indigenous-owned tourism and hospitality organisation that operates Mercure Kakadu Crocodile Hotel, Cooinda Lodge, Yellow Water Camping Ground, Yellow Water Cruises and a range of tour services and activities.

Full information, including itineraries: https://kakadutourism.com/