Friday 7 May 2021

NEW CAMPAIGN URGES AUSTRALIANS TO TAKE AN EPIC HOLIDAY

The next phase of Tourism Australia’s Holiday Here This Year campaign launches today, with ambassadors Hamish Blake and Zoe-Foster Blake showcasing some of Australia’s most epic holiday experiences.

The new $9 million Epic Holidays campaign urges Australians to travel further, book a longer stay, and enjoy the benefits of a bigger domestic holiday.

Federal Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, Dan Tehan, said that now is the perfect time for Australians who have been holding out for a holiday, to take an epic one.

“This new campaign aims to get Australians to travel further afield, take a longer holiday, and visit those parts of the country typically reliant on international tourism,” Mr Tehan said.

“Australians typically spend more overseas than foreign tourists spend in Australia, so we want Australians to treat their domestic holiday this year like an overseas trip. The net impact of Australian tourist spending in Australia was a positive benefit to the economy of around $7.5 billion in the December quarter; and in 2019, holidays of five nights or longer contributed $31.8 billion to the economy.

“Every epic holiday that we take in our own backyard delivers a significant shot in the arm for our tourism businesses, workers and communities,” Mr Tehan said.

Tourism Australia Managing Director Phillipa Harrison said the new campaign sought to encourage Australians to take the opportunity to book an epic holiday, especially when there had been limited opportunities to do so in the past year.

“This latest phase of our Holiday Here This Year campaign is focused on reminding Australians of some of the big adventures that can be had when exploring the many destinations, landscapes, and natural wonders that make Australia truly awe-inspiring,” Ms Harrison said.

“With a backyard as vast as ours, Australians are spoilt for choice when it comes to epic destinations and holiday experiences. We have a reef so big you can see it from space, the world’s greatest rock formation, and mountain ranges that dominate over three states and more.

“To make the most of these epic holiday opportunities, we’re urging Australians to take a bigger break of five days or more and explore those parts of the country that are especially reliant on international visitors. Taking a longer break is not only good for our personal wellbeing but also for Australia and the many communities and businesses that rely on tourism,” Ms Harrison said.

Speaking about the opportunities for epic holidays in Australia, Hamish Blake and Zoe Foster-Blake said, “We feel intensely awed by this hugely varied and vast country we live in, and how lucky we are to have so many epic experiences in our backyard. So many of the reasons we travel for – wildlife adventures, forests and hiking, wining and dining, and epic family experiences – are right on our doorstep, and the best way to do them justice is on a big holiday. Go bigger! Stay longer! Eat more! Adventure more! Need we say more?”

The Epic Holidays campaign will be rolled out across a range of channels including TV, print, online, social media, content partnerships, search, radio, cinema and outdoor advertising. There is also a new online quiz to assist Australians in finding their perfect holiday match, which can be found on the official travel site australia.com. Campaign assets are also being made available to industry to use in their own marketing initiatives.

The campaign is also being supported by a range of key partners including Flight Centre, Travel Associates, Big Red Group, and Klook.

Tourism Australia also continues to provide consumers with the practical resources and inspiration they need to book a holiday and travel safely around Australia, with tailored content, itineraries, and industry offers on Australia.com. This includes an online Australian COVID travel portal available at https://www.australia.com/en/facts-and-planning/useful-tips/coronavirus-travel-safety.html that brings together key safety information, travel restrictions and guidelines from across the country.

More information on the campaign can be found at: https://www.tourism.australia.com/en/about/our-campaigns/holiday-here-this-year.html

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

START PLANNING YOUR 2021 ADVENTURES TO AUSTRALIA’S HOTTEST WINTER ARTS FESTIVAL

Darwin Festival is back in a big way for 2021 and a tantalising taste of some of the many treats on offer from Thursday 5 – Sunday 22 August is out now! There really is no better place to spend Hot August Nights than in the Top End, and with ten sizzling shows on sale, now is the time to get planning.

A fabulous festival feast of circus, comedy, cabaret, theatre, music, visual arts and family fun awaits as Darwin Festival takes over the town and dishes up a tropical winter wonderland. Darwin Festival welcomes artists from across the country to join this program, bursting at the seams with events showcased throughout the CBD.

It all kicks off with the free, family-friendly Santos Opening Night Concert, which this year sees The Amphitheatre transformed into a meeting place of dance, song and ritual for Buŋgul. Celebrate the music and culture of Gurrumul and the people of North East Arnhem Land in a live performance of Gurrumul’s final album, Djarrimirri by Yolŋu dancers and songmen and the Darwin Symphony Orchestra. This work is one of the largest ever co-commissions in Darwin Festival history. Presented free of charge for the only time during its national tour, the Festival is delighted to be bringing such an important cultural work to audiences in the Territory. Reserve for your free ticket today via the Darwin Festival website.

Gravity & Other Myths’ The Pulse is an exhilarating spectacle that will leave audience mouths agape. This epic circus production is unlike anything Darwin has ever seen before and features 30 acrobats performing heart-stopping stunts and incredible feats of strength, accompanied by the spine-tingling vocals of a live 22-person choir. The impressive work is the second of the two incredible co-commissioned works by Darwin Festival included in the 2021 program and was developed by artists throughout 2020.

Renowned intercultural dance theatre company Marrugeku celebrates 25 years with a powerful and provocative new work that brings them back to the NT for the first time in many years. Challenging, joyful and deeply affecting, Jurrungu Ngan-ga – literally translated as ‘Straight Talk’ – confronts Australia’s shameful fixation with incarceration in a world premiere performance featuring movement, spoken word, installation and an original musical soundscape.

Theatre lovers are spoilt for choice with the release of two stunning shows. The story of Nauru and the plight of asylum seekers who found themselves there is the subject of the compelling and unsettling theatre work We All Know What’s Happening. Performed by children, this thoroughly entertaining show is part school musical, part history lesson and part political probe. While Ilbijerri Theatre Company’s Heart is a Wasteland combines First Peoples storytelling with live music in a whisky-fuelled love story that takes place on the road from Darwin to Alice.

Darwin Festivals’ newest outdoor stage in Festival Park is back! The INPEX Sunset Stage hosts an incredible line-up of music, comedy and cabaret throughout the Festival. Australia’s favourite Venezuelan, Ivan Aristeguieta (Channel 10’s Have You Been Paying Attention, Best Comedy Nominee, Melbourne International Comedy Festival 2021), has survived lockdown and is bringing his hilarious new show (and infectious grin) to the Top End.

From the artist who delighted (and shocked) Darwin audiences as the larger-than-life Yana Alana, comes The Legend of Queen Kong a queer, comic, sci-fi rock odyssey of meteoric proportions, bursting with hilarious pop culture references, mind-blowing visual projections and unforgettable original music. And with live Auslan and captioning, the show is fully accessible to Deaf and hard of hearing audiences.

Contemporary music is back at the INPEX Sunset Stage in a big way, and our eclectic line-up kicks off with Pitjantjatjara/Torres Strait Islander woman and superstar in waiting Miiesha. Inspired by the sounds of RnB, gospel and soul, this incredible young singer-songwriter has a voice that just has to be heard – as much for her velvety vocals as for her important message.

Dance lovers are in for a real treat as Sydney Dance Company bring their thrilling combination of modern ballet, yoga and contemporary movement to Darwin Entertainment Centre, where they are joined live on stage by the Australian String Quartet performing a score by The National’s Bryce Dessner. And Bizet’s iconic opera, Carmencomes to life at Darwin Entertainment Centre in a vibrant new production with Opera Australia’s singers, a live chamber orchestra and a children’s chorus drawn from the Darwin community.

Darwin Festival Artistic Director Felix Preval says “We were so lucky to have a Festival in 2020 which gave us a unique opportunity to showcase our incredible homegrown talent. With borders open again, we’re excited to return to a program that places the best of the NT alongside Australian artists at the top of their game for 18 incredible days. Add to that, two of the biggest commissions in Darwin Festival history, and it’s set to be one of our most ambitious yet.”

Darwin Festival CEO James Gough says “This early teaser of Darwin Festival’s 2021 program means local and interstate audiences can start planning their Festival adventures now. We know that festivals and events are an important driver for interstate visitation to Darwin in August and we are well positioned to provide an exceptional experience this year. Darwin Festival remains committed to connecting communities through the celebration of culture and the arts and we look forward to sharing the full Program in June.”

Minister for Major Events Natasha Fyles said, “Darwin Festival is an icon on the Territory’s events calendar, which is no surprise when you look at the incredible range of entertainment on offer.

“This event has a loyal local following and attracts more interstate fans every year keen to experience the wide variety of shows on offer and our incredible August weather.

“The Northern Territory Government continues to invest in this 18-day extravaganza each year to support our arts, tourism and hospitality industries, and increase the liveability of the Territory for Territorians.”

Darwin Festival is excited to unite locals and interstaters, families and friends to once again celebrate Dry Season good times with a program that has something for everyone – and this is just a fraction of what’s on offer.

Darwin Festival runs Thu 5 – Sun 22 August. Full program announced Friday 18 June.

EARLY RELEASE TICKETS are on sale from 9am Thursday 6 May and can be purchased at www.darwinfestival.org.au

Darwin Festival is proudly supported by the Northern Territory Government and City of Darwin.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Thursday 6 May 2021

COSY COASTAL STAYS WITH WINE, WHALES AND SNAILS OF APPROVAL IN THE SHOALHAVEN

Just two hours from Sydney and Canberra, the Shoalhaven has long been a favourite destination for summer travellers, but every year, from May to November the magic of winter takes over the South Coast as the annual whale migration kisses the coastline, wines are uncorked, and local restaurants serve up delicious menus with local produce.

Whether it’s the adventure of swimming in the wild with whales you seek, meeting the makers at cellar doors, or laid-back fine dining whilst the fireplace crackles beside you, you don’t need to travel overseas to experience something truly unique. Your next cosy escape awaits on the South Coast just two hours from Sydney and Canberra.

The Shoalhaven Wine Coast is a treat for both wine connoisseurs and those looking for fresh country air and adventure. Award-winning varietals are paired with fun and foodie activities like High Tea in a giant teacup or horseback rides through the vines, top class restaurants, tours, art galleries and meet-the-maker experiences. All 9 of the region’s cellar doors are located on the coast’s doorstep including award winning Cambewarra Estate Winery, Mountain Ridge Wines, Coolangatta Estate, and Cupitts Estate.

“Our region is unique to the other areas in NSW as it has a maritime climate with cool coastal breezes.” said Brett Richardson, President, Shoalhaven Wine Coast Association. “The geology of the Shoalhaven Coast creates a tendency for white wines to be fruit-driven and well-balanced in style and medium-bodied red wines with fine tannins and elegant fruit characters.”

“Winter is a great time to visit the Shoalhaven Coast wine region, you can admire the vines, meet the winemakers, and be among the first to taste some brand-new releases,” added Richardson.

From May to November each year, the Shoalhaven coast comes alive with the annual whale migration. The Shoalhaven is lucky to be situated in the middle of this ‘Humpback Highway’ and therefore have consistent whale sightings throughout all of winter and spring. Jervis Bay with its white sand beaches is known for its whale and dolphin cruises close to shore in calm waters. Book a whale watching eco-cruise with Jervis Bay Wild or Dolphin Watch to get up close with humpback whales, or try a ‘Swim with the Whales’ experience with Dive Jervis Bay a unique way to have an in water experience with the humpbacks and one of only a few licenses in NSW Waters.

“Each year between June and November the south coast comes alive with the spectacular acrobatic displays of humpback and Southern Right whales,” said Peter Ellis from Dive Jervis Bay.

“A swimming encounter with a whale is something you will never forget. Each whale has a different personality and are very curious and will come close to see you or circle below you. It is a truly one in a lifetime experience, one you will not forget.

The Slow Food movement is alive in the Shoalhaven, with the local south coast groups working with chefs and cooks to award the ‘Snail of Approval.’ These Shoalhaven eateries are committed to using more local seasonal produce, so diners will get a taste of truly local food, without unnecessary food miles. Head to Kangaroo Valley and savour the tastes and textures of offerings from The General Café and Hampden Deli. Take in epicurean experiences in Berry’s charming neighbourhood dining hotspots South on Albany, The Garden Berry, and Far Meadow Table. For coastal cuisine, a trip to Milton and Ulladulla will get you a dining experience not-to-be-missed with Cupitt’s Estate, Duke & Co, GWYLO, Milk Haus, Small Town Milton, Saltwood Kioloa and Treehouse Café.

“Slow Food is an International Association in over 160 countries worldwide that aims to prevent the disappearance of local food cultures and traditions and supports small producers in their endeavor to remain sustainable, promoting a thriving food community locally,” said Rosie Cupitt Leader, Slow Food South Coast.

“The Shoalhaven region is the largest joint Slow Food group in Australia, with restaurants and providores up and down the South Coast committed to promoting how good food choices can influence our environment and help to change the world for the better.” Added Cupitt.

Unique accommodation is also key – from Bannisters Hotels in Mollymook, or Bangalay Villas on Seven Mile Beach, and Paperbark Camp’s unique outdoors safari tents, there’s an array of options to satisfy the needs of every traveller.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: 

POTTED POTTER The Unauthorized Harry Experience


POTTED POTTER
  • The Unauthorized Harry Experience
  • A Parody by Dan and Jeff
  • All Seven Harry Potter Books in Seventy Hilarious Minutes

EXCLUSIVE FIVE-CITY AUSTRALIAN TOUR
CELEBRATING 15 YEARS OF SELL-OUT SEASONS

  • "The duo casts the perfect spell over the audience." The New York Times – Critics’ Pick
  • "Gloriously irreverent." Time Out London – Critics’ Choice
  • "I guarantee you’ll go positively potty over Potted Potter." Toronto Star
  • "A fabulously funny parody." The Daily Telegraph (UK)

2021 marks the 15th Anniversary of the international smash hit Harry Potter parody POTTED POTTER. In celebrating this milestone, producers have confirmed that Australia will score a global exclusive with a five-city tour of this blissfully funny romp through J.K. Rowling’s back catalogue live on stage. The 2021 Anniversary tour will open in Sydney on 22 June, then travel to Canberra on 13 July, Adelaide 27 July, Brisbane 3 August and Perth on 11 August.

POTTED POTTER has been performed hilariously “across the ditch” by two New Zealand actors Adam Brown and Tama Jarman who will bring the brilliant Centrepoint Theatre production to Oz following an acclaimed premiere there last year. This was directed by the show’s co-creator Daniel Clarkson and was praised by the NZ Herald for its “terrific, fun, slick performances”.

POTTED POTTER – The Unauthorized Harry Experience – A Parody by Dan and Jeff takes on the ultimate challenge of condensing all seven Harry Potter books (and a real-life game of Quidditch) into seventy hilarious minutes. Even if you don’t know the difference between a horcrux and a Hufflepuff, this fantastically funny show that features all your favourite characters, a special appearance from a fire-breathing dragon, endless costumes, brilliant songs, ridiculous props and a generous helping of Hogwarts magic will make you roar with laughter.

  • “Blissfully funny, a winner in every way. This show is a crowd-pleaser.” The London Guardian
  • “Cleverly appeals to both ardent fans and parents.” The London Times

Producer James Seabright said, “Fifteen years ago, Potted Potter premiered at the world’s largest arts festival, the Edinburgh Fringe. Since then, the show has gone on to play multiple West End seasons in London, two off-Broadway engagements in New York, one amazing Las Vegas residency, and extensive touring. In normal circumstances we’d be bringing the show to every corner of the globe this year to celebrate the anniversary, but COVID restrictions elsewhere mean that Australia has a world exclusive with this five-city tour. The show’s creators Daniel Clarkson and Jeff Turner have worked carefully to adapt the production to be COVID safe, which will also mean that repeat visitors to the show will enjoy some exclusive new material. Australia, thank you for having us back and I hope you enjoy the show!”

This Best Entertainment, Family Olivier Award Nominee and double Best Of Las Vegas 2019 award-winning show is perfect for ages six to Dumbledore (who is very old indeed).

Production photos of NZ cast -
https://www.dropbox.com/sh/x1j89nqm0cdhkfd/AAASdLPIuSSyBT_auoGyjPSGa?dl=0

Find out more here, and follow Potted Potter on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram

AUSTRALIAN TOUR DETAILS
VENUE​ Everest Theatre, Seymour Centre, Sydney
SEASON​ 22 June – 4 July
TIMES​ Tues to Thu 7pm; Fri 7.30pm; Sat 4.30pm & 7.30pm; Sun 1pm & 4pm
PRICES​ Opening night $59.90; $69.90 to $79.90
BOOKINGS ​seymourcentre.com or 02 9351 7940

VENUE​ Canberra Playhouse, Canberra
SEASON​ 13 – 18 July
TIMES Tues to Fri 7pm; Sat 4pm & 7pm; Sun 1pm & 4pm
PRICES $69.90 to $79.90
BOOKINGS canberratheatrecentre.com.au or 02 6275 2700

VENUE​ Dunstan Playhouse, Adelaide Festival Centre
SEASON​ 27 - 30 July
TIMES Tues to Thu 7pm, Fri 8pm
PRICES $69.90 to $79.90
BOOKINGS Adelaidefestivalcentre.com.au or 131 246

VENUE​ QPAC Playhouse, Brisbane
SEASON​ 3 – 8 August
TIMES Tues to Fri 7.30pm, Sat 4pm & 8pm, Sun 12pm & 4pm
PRICES $69.90 to $79.90
BOOKINGS qpac.com.au or 136 246

VENUE ​ Heath Ledger Theatre, State Theatre Centre of WA, Perth
SEASON​ 11 – 15 August
TIMES Wed & Thu 7pm, Fri 7.30pm, Sat 4.30pm & 7.30pm, Sun 1pm & 4pm
PRICES $69.90 to $79.90
BOOKINGS ptt.wa.gov.au or 08 6212 9292

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Wednesday 5 May 2021

Cruise Suspension No Joking Matter for Cruising Comedians Keen to Resume Their Livelihoods at Sea

When cruising was suspended in response to the covid pandemic, the impact on entertainers such as comedian Mark Trevorrow, was both huge and immediate.

Renowned for his side-splittingly funny high camp onstage persona Bob Downe, Mark saw his main source of income from regular P&O Cruises Australia comedy cruises disappear overnight.

“I miss our comedy cruises something shocking and can’t wait to get all jabbed and to be back at sea,” says Mark. “We are all missing each other terribly, all of the Sit Down Comedy Club comedians. We are just counting the days until we can sail again.”

So much so that regular comedy cruise artists stay in touch with each other via a private Facebook group. And there is no disguising the impact of the pandemic on Mark’s livelihood.

“It was my primary source of income from 2016,” Mark said. “Thank goodness I was able to go on JobKeeper; it was an absolute life saver.”

Mark has taken Bob Downe back on the road while all the time looking forward “to being back on the water again.”

His onstage character is an amalgam of the world in which Mark grew up with “cheesy” variety shows a nightly feature of Melbourne television, “all straight from the Tivoli circuit”, plus flashy American movies and entertainers such as Dean Martin doing their thing.

“Bob is something I have been doing since I was a little kid growing up with all of these influences,” Mark said.

“I gave him a name in 1984 and went solo with the character in 1987. I lived in the UK and had a big success at the Edinburgh Festival when I first went there in 1988 and then by 1990 I was based in London and was there for about 10 years going backward and forward to Australia.”

Mark’s love of cruising is not just business. It is also personal. He and his partner, Stefan, married in San Francisco but also loved having 80 family members on board P&O’s Pacific Jewel to celebrate their renewal of vows in 2017.

“I had never been on a cruise ship before my first comedy cruise but I completely fell in love with cruising. I absolutely love it,” Mark said.

“The amazing thing with comedy cruises is that people book without knowing who the comedians will be. What that means for us as comedians is a fabulous level playing field where we all get out on stage and we live or die by how funny we are.

“You’ve also got that fellowship of your colleagues. You’re out at sea for three days with wonderful colleagues because usually when you’re touring you’re on your own and it gets pretty lonely.”

For now, Mark — and Bob Downe — are back on the road touring while dreaming of entertaining on the high seas again.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Hong Kong celebrates the power of art physically and virtually, as the world’s leading contemporary art fair returns in May

When event venues shut down globally during the pandemic, people flocked online in record numbers to satisfy their deep craving for art and culture. As the world cautiously looks to resume international travel and bring back events, it is fitting that art is a driving force to make this happen, with Hong Kong paving the way in the hope of safely staging large-scale events again.

In May, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) rolled out the ‘Arts in Hong Kong’ campaign to promote a series of major events, in both physical and digital format, organised by fair organisers and cultural institutions around town. It ensures that audiences can reconnect with art and the vitality of Hong Kong, whether in person or abroad.

Safely hosting major international events

After an absence of more than two years because of the pandemic, Art Basel is officially scheduled to take place from 21 to 23 May at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). More than 100 galleries from Asia, Europe and the Americas have confirmed their participation. In addition, Art Central will run concurrently at the HKCEC for the first time, and is free to attend with registration. The annual French May will continue to offer cultural entertainment, with over 100 events running from 1 May to 30 June.

To ensure that all fair participants have a stress-free experience, best-practice health and safety protocols will be followed, including mask-wearing, timed entry, reduced capacity, wider aisles and regular cleaning.

Art events that defy borders and barriers

Art has long had the power to break down boundaries, and unite and inspire people. Thanks to the depth of its imagination and creativity, Hong Kong’s dynamic arts community has nimbly pivoted to offer hybrid physical and virtual events for people around the world.

In addition to Art Basel, which will launch a new digital initiative, ‘Art Basel Live: Hong Kong’, in parallel with the physical show to amplify its international visibility, fairs that have adopted the hybrid format include Art Central and Yim Tin Tsai Arts Festival 2021. While Hong Kong Arts Festival’s PLUS programme is featuring a diverse line-up of online and in-venue experiences, the soon-to-be-opened West Kowloon Cultural District’s M+ museum is offering online movie screenings on demand.

HKTB gets in on the creative, interactive fun

Actively contributing to Hong Kong’s art revival, the HKTB created a dedicated campaign website, (www.discoverhongkong.com/Arts), which is a one-stop platform providing essential information about ‘Arts in Hong Kong’ and introducing online showcases, art itineraries, an event calendar, artsy offers, interviews with art insiders, and more.

In the online showcases, curated virtual experiences, provided by both international fairs and local events, are all at the fingertips of viewers, regardless of where they are located. It also features an interactive microfilm presented by two local celebrities – multidisciplinary artist Ivana Wong and director Kearen Pang – at some of the city’s coolest attractions, including Tai Kwun, The Mills and the West Kowloon Cultural District.

While we wait for international travel to resume, the wealth of virtual experiences on offer once again highlights Hong Kong’s diverse wealth of cultural treasures and underscores the city’s ability to remain agile in the face of unprecedented disruption.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Amazing Day Tours Show Off the Best of Kangaroo Island

Take advantage of half price flights to Kangaroo Island with Rex and Qantas and discover the islands attractions and secrets on SeaLink’s new one day coach tours – the Kangaroo Island Experience and Kangaroo Island Sip & See tour. Departing from Kangaroo Island, these fantastic tours are designed to show off the best this magnificent island has to offer.

Explore the island in pure comfort, in air-conditioned coaches and with tour guides who are Kangaroo Island locals, providing informative, friendly, and fun commentary.

Encounter Kangaroo Island’s incredible wildlife and unmissable natural landscapes on the One Day Kangaroo Island Experience tour.

See Sea Lions in their natural environment, frolicking on the beach and playing in the water at Seal Bay Conservation Park. Get up close and personal with kangaroos, wallabies, koalas, and other Australian native wildlife at Kangaroo Island Wildlife Park and enjoy a hearty two-course lunch at Vivonne Bay Bistro.

Visit Flinders Chase National Park and nature’s breath-taking Admirals Arch and Remarkable Rocks. Watch the fierce ocean swells at Admirals Arch - a spectacular arch and natural nursery for playful Long-nosed Fur Seals, before heading back to Remarkable Rocks to explore the majestic granite boulders and stunning sea views. After being impacted by the 2020 bushfires witness the amazing regeneration and regrowth of the flora and fauna that is bringing a whole new sense of beauty and life to the area.

The one Day Kangaroo Island Experience is priced from $191 per adult and operates from Penneshaw, American River and Kingscote, every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday.

Spoil your senses, indulge your taste buds, and get up close to the magnificent wildlife, while exploring some of Kangaroo Island’s much-loved attractions on SeaLink’s new Kangaroo Island Sip & See Day Tour.

See the amazing In-Flight Birds of Prey presentation at Raptor Domain featuring a variety of birds including Wedge Tailed Eagles, Australian Kestrel, and Barn Owls. Visit Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Distillery and engage in a history talk, a guided tour of the oil distillery and shop an assortment of Eucalyptus products in the souvenir shop before enjoying a delicious two-course lunch. Kangaroo Island Ciders’ range of Colony Cove products including Apple Sparkler, Draught Cider and Original Cider are also available for tasting (additional cost).

Visit Clifford’s Honey Farm and learn about the Ligurian honeybees, see a working beehive, taste different varieties of pure Kangaroo Island Ligurian honey, sample honey beauty products and their famous honey ice-cream. Then spend a relaxing afternoon at False Cape Wines cellar door tasting their premium Kangaroo Island wines while overlooking the idyllic bushland and vineyard surrounds.

The Kangaroo Island Sip & See Day tour operates every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday and is priced from $185 per adult departing from Penneshaw, $203 per adult from American River, and $205 per adult from Kingscote.

For further information and bookings contact SeaLink, contact: T: 13 13 01 or visit www.sealink.com.au

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Tuesday 4 May 2021

COME FROM AWAY - the internationally acclaimed musical

Award-winning musical COME FROM AWAY will have its first performance in Sydney on 3 June. The performance marks the long-awaited re-launch of its 2021 Australian Tour, which takes place in the Capitol Theatre in Sydney after breaking all box office records at the Comedy Theatre in Melbourne.

The Australian company is the first to re-take the stage worldwide, with Broadway, London, Toronto and COME FROM AWAY follows the incredible real-life journey of 7,000 air passengers who became grounded in Gander, Newfoundland in Canada in the wake of the September 11 tragedy. The small community that welcomed the ‘come from aways’ into their lives provided hope and compassion to those in need. Award-winning husband and wife duo David Hein and Irene Sankoff (book, music and lyrics), travelled to Newfoundland and interviewed thousands of locals, compiling their stories to share with the world.

Producer Rodney Rigby said that whilst the theatre industry around the world is facing its greatest crisis due to COVID-19, Australia is in an enviable position.

“The Australian production is incredibly fortunate to raise the curtain tonight. We are able to do so because of the resilience of everyday Australians, who have a spirit of kindness and humanity that we have seen throughout the bushfires and the pandemic – it is the same spirit that COME FROM AWAY embodies,” he said.

In 2019, along with being voted Ticketmaster’s ‘Ticket of the Year’ by Australian audiences, the musical won a Tony Award and four Olivier Awards including Best New Musical, Best Theatre Choreographer, Best Sound Design and Outstanding Achievement in Music, along with four Broadway World UK awards. In 2020, the musical added to its international award tally with five Green Room awards including Best Production and Best Ensemble.

COME FROM AWAY is directed by Tony Award winner Christopher Ashley (Diana, Memphis), choreographed by Olivier Award Winner Kelly Devine (Diana, Rock of Ages, Rocky), with music supervision by Ian Eisendrath (A Christmas Story, Diana), scenic design by Beowulf Boritt (Act One, Rock of Ages, Be More Chill), costume design by Toni-Leslie James (Jelly’s Last Jam), lighting design by Howell Binkley (Jersey Boys, Hamilton), and sound design by Gareth Owen (Diana, A Bronx Tale).

The cast includes Zoe Gertz, Sharriese Hamilton, Douglas Hansell, Kolby Kindle, Phillip Lowe, Simon Maiden, Sarah Morrison, Joseph Naim, Emma Powell, Katrina Retallick, Kellie Rode and Gene Weygandt, together with Angela Kennedy, Josh Marin, Kathleen Moore, Jensen Overend, Kilty Reidy, Ash Roussety, Alana Tranter, and Jasmine Vaughns.

Now, more than ever, COME FROM AWAY is the perfect show for our time; an opportunity to come together and celebrate an inspirational tale of hope and humanity.

Seven Wonders - The Music of Fleetwood Mac Orchestrated – Tickets on sale now

Fleetwood Mac’s Greatest Hits - Dreams, The Chain, Everywhere, Tusk, Rhiannon, Landslide, Go Your Own Way, Little Lies, Big Love, Seven Wonders & More Performed by a 24 Piece Symphony Orchestra Conducted by George Ellis

Featuring Special Guest Vocalists - Tania Doko (Bachelor Girl), Kate DeAraugo (Young Divas), Prinnie Stevens and Mark Williams

Read More

Friday June 11th at the Palais Theatre
Tickets from only $79.90. Book your tickets now.

Learn More

Metropolis Touring
PO BOX 565
Surry Hills New South Wales 2010
Australia
https://metropolistouring.com/

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Monday 3 May 2021

Summer Reef Snapshot released

Summer is a critical time for the health of coral. The Great Barrier Reef Marine Park Authority’s latest Reef Snapshot provides a summary of the conditions on the reef this summer, what this means for coral, and what actions are under way. 

It also shows that reef recovery is ongoing, with a lack of prolonged high temperatures and cyclonic disturbances allowing the reef’s recovery process to continue throughout this summer.

Sunday 2 May 2021

May comes alive with sporting events state-wide

Queensland will be a hive of sporting activity next month, with a series of events drawing fans from across the country to the Sunshine State.

In addition to NRL Magic Round in Brisbane, there’s the Straddie Salute, the Australian Gymnastics Championships on the Gold Coast and the GBR Master Games in Cairns, among many others. In Townsville, the Queensland Government last week announced it had secured the Reds’ Trans-Tasman Super Rugby clash against the Waikato-based Chiefs to be played in Townsville on 29 May, the day after the Cowboys’ clash against the New Zealand Warriors, setting up the city for a potential influx of kiwi footy fans.

Sports events on the It’s Live! in Queensland events calendar in May alone could contribute more than $31 million to the state’s economy.

If you’d like to promote events happening in your region, there’s plenty of great content you can share from our dedicated page helping travellers explore the state’s events. Find content relevant for your region or business and share with your followers.

EXPLORE EVENTS

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

New Virtual Site Visit of Sydney Opera House Venues

The Sydney Opera House has launched a new virtual site visit, allowing event and conference organisers an opportunity to ‘visit’ the Australian icon and conduct site inspections, no matter where they are in the world.

Hosted personally by the Sydney Opera House’s expert sales or functions team, the virtual site visit will take clients through an personalised showcase of the Opera House’s venues and extraordinary experiences.

Visitors will see Yallamundi Rooms, a customisable event space suitable for cooperate meetings and events, celebrations, and intimate performances; the stunning Joan Sutherland Theatre Northern Foyer, where guests are treated to expansive views of Sydney Harbour; and the Utzon Room, an intimate and elegant venue designed completely by architect Jørn Utzon, which seamlessly complements its harbourside location. And from a private guided tour to an extraordinary private opera recital, there are many experiences the Sydney Opera House can create to your business events to make the day unforgettable.

To visit the Opera House - regardless of your location - contact the Sydney Opera House sales team here salesteam@sydneyoperahouse.com to book your virtual visit.

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Saturday 1 May 2021

Three travel voucher campaigns under way

Queensland’s Holiday Dollars program is now in full swing, with three campaigns for Cairns & Great Barrier Reef, Brisbane and the Whitsundays currently being delivered.

Combined, the campaigns offer Queenslanders 51,000 travel voucher discounts on tourism experiences in the regions most impacted by the loss of international visitors.

The draw for Brisbane Holiday Dollars vouchers is currently open, with more than 83,000 Queenslanders already completing their registration in the hope of securing a $100 voucher to be used for accommodation and tourism experiences in the wider Brisbane region over the coming months.

The Whitsundays Holiday Dollars campaign is set to kick off next Tuesday, where people already in the region can claim a $200 voucher from local outlets to use towards tourism experiences like trips to the reef, Whitehaven Beach and touring the Whitsunday Coast.

Also kicking off next Tuesday is a boost to the Cairns Holiday Dollars campaign, where 5,000 vouchers worth $200 each (inc. GST) will be distributed to people already on holidays in the region using Facebook’s audience targeting tools. The instantly downloadable voucher codes can be used for bookings immediately, through to 25 June.

Planning for a campaign for the Gold Coast is under way.

READ MORE

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au

Welcome Back Opera Kitchen - Expand your horizons. And your tastebuds

The Opera Kitchen reopens under new management by Solotel Group. Visitors have the option of two commissionable products, The Tour and Dine or Beyond the Stage, both available for immediate bookings.

Both tours allow visitors to relax after the tour with a delicious, leisurely brunch or lunch beside Sydney Harbour at the city's newest market food hall - Opera Kitchen. Brought to you by Matt Moran, take a seat in the shadow of the sails for simple, fresh food with a view.

The Tour and Dine makes the most of a day out at the Opera House, combining a 1-hour tour exploring beneath the sails followed by a lunch with a selection of main course options plus a glass of Australian wine or local beer.

The Beyond the Stage offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look inside the venues. Uncover what happens before the curtain call when you travel Beyond the Stage and step behind closed doors into areas traditionally reserved for performers and workers. Includes brunch with a glass of Prosecco.

All tours will visit our new immersive digital experience to witness unforgettable moments from Concert Hall performances as part of the tours.

Tour and Dine $80.00 pp
Beyond the Stage $90.00 pp
Travel Trade Commissionable rate available.

Please contact the sales team for further information and tour departure times salesteam@sydneyoperahouse.com

Website: www.theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com.au