WHATS NEW ON THE GOLD COAST

Jellurgal Aboriginal Cultural Centre

The Gold Coast has welcomed its first dedicated Aboriginal Tourism and Cultural Centre to preserve, promote and share Aboriginal culture. The area from Tallebudgera Estuary to Burleigh is of historical Aboriginal significance as a place for corroborees and gatherings as well as being 'like holidaying at the Versace' for traditional people thousands of years ago. Annual pilgrimages were made to the region to enjoy the abundance of seafood, wildlife, beautiful weather and spectacular scenery. Tours will encompass narration of dreamtime stories and Aboriginal dance. Genuine Aboriginal artefacts will be available at Jellurgal and they are searching for Aboriginal artists-in residence to work at the centre, allowing visitors learn the stories behind the art. www.jellurgal.com.au

Get close to farmyard animals or take to the skies at Currumbin

Experience a true blue Aussie experience or take off for a birds-eye-view of the land from dizzying heights with Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary's new Australiana and Sheep Shearing Show and Surf2Sky heli-tour of the 'Green Cauldron'. Watch live sheep shearing, cuddle farmyard animals, meet native Australian wildlife and see Goldie the sheep dog shine at the sanctuary's brand new sheep shearing shed. For an unforgettable day out, take to the skies and fly over the iconic landscapes where lush rainforest and world-famous surf beaches meet with a Surf2Sky heli-tour. The tour takes in views of Currumbin, Tallebudgera Valley and the Mt Warning caldera, the second largest volcanic crater in the world. Formed in partnership with ABC Helicopters, the tours run from the Gold Coast Heliport and range from five minutes to 45 minutes. www.cws.org.au

Binna Burra unveils new Sky Lodges

Set to open in a matter of weeks, Sky Lodges are a luxurious accommodation alternative to traditional Binna Burra Mountain Lodge, surrounded by World-Heritage Listed Lamington National Park. In keeping with Binna Burra's eco-policies, Sky Lodges incorporate environmentally-sensitive and energy-efficient designs. They also feature recycled timber milled from the land, solar power and an underground rainwater tank. Guests can choose from studios to three bedroom apartments - all boasting spa baths with views, fire places, TVs and wifi access. Guests can easily access the facilities of Binna Burra and take part in the many activities on offer. www.binnaburralodge.com.au www.binnaburralodge.com.au

Nightfall Wilderness Camp, Lamington National Park

Due to open in May, 2013 - located beside the World Heritage Lamington National Park on the Queensland/New South Wales border, sits a property with luxury safari eco-tents. Location plays a big part here with nearby Christmas Creek and its private "beach" and day bed one of the highlights of a stay. Sunset drinks punctuate the end of the day followed by organic food and hand-selected Australian wine. All that's left to do is to sink into your king-sized bed where you can choose to lift the canvas walls for a deeper connection with the nightfall outside. www.nightfall.com.au

Cruise in luxury on the Gold Coast

Step aboard the new luxurious 98-foot mega yacht, MY Seven Star and take in the Gold Coast Broadwater on one of their three-hour 'Taste of Indulgence' cruises, departing from Marina Mirage. Opt for the 'Sparkling Breakfast', 'High Tea at Sea' or 'Sunset Spectacular' to experience the striking Gold Coast skyline and mega waterside mansions while supping delicious canapés and beverages. Taking a maximum of 30 guests, half-day, full-day and multi-day charter options are also available - perfect for corporate functions or special events. www.mysevenstar.com

Hit the water with Eco Extreme

A sleek new vessel has recently launched on the Gold Coast offering three exciting tours through some of the coast's prettiest waterways. Eco Extreme tours depart from Runaway Bay Marina and head north to the tip of South Stradbroke Island, taking in ritzy properties, bountiful wildlife and a secret island hideaway. Choose the one-and-a-half hour Extreme Blast for a 50km-per-hour adventure ride, An Island Hideaway Lunch Cruise (3.5 hours) or the Ultimate Marine/Wilderness Adventure (4.5 hours). The Eco Extreme staff enjoy sharing their knowledge of the area's history and also provide commentary on the wide variety of birdlife and native animals. www.ecoextreme.com.au

Radisson Gold Coast Resort rebranded to Mercure resort

Accor has added the popular Radisson Gold Coast Resort to its portfolio, with the hotel to be re-branded to a Mercure Resort. The strategic addition to the group was made even more significant because the hotel will be the 200th in Accor's Australian network. http://accorhotels.com.au/press/australia

The Fish House, Burleigh Heads

The owners of the renowned Hellenika at Nobby's Beach have just opened the doors to this new beachfront, seafood restaurant with an emphasis on simple southern Mediterranean flavours. Open Wednesday to Sunday for lunch and dinner, The Fish House has a strict dress code so pack a change of clothes if you're spending the day at the beach beforehand! www.thefishhouse.com.au