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Exciting News! The readership of this Magazine has recently passed 5 million. An innovative new way of promoting tourism in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales in Australia, selected Australian cities and featured overseas countries. Featuring MICE and Corporate Travel news, destinations, hotels, musicals and events. On the right hand side of the page you will find an index of articles by date, by world location, and by popularity. Happy reading!
Tuesday 28 February 2023
Adriana Lecouvreur's high drama thrills on opening night!
BLUE MOUNTAINS BOOSTED BY STAR VISIT
The Significant Landmarks of Alabama
Pioneer Museum of Alabama - Homestead |
The U.S. Space and Rocket Center
The Hank Williams’s centenary
www.thehankwilliamsmuseum.net
The Alabama BBQ trail
The BBQ trail on Alabama’s smartphone app, features the Original Alabama White Sauce invented at Big Bob Gibson Bar-B-Q in Decatur and the special house slaw at Brooks Barbeque in Muscle Shoals. Brenda’s Bar-B-Q Pit in west Montgomery is where its founder secretly tutored neighbourhood residents to pass the literacy test, which was required for them to register to vote.North Alabama wine trail
100 Dishes to Eat in Alabama
The schooner Clotilda
AllWays travellers to Alabama
Wyangala Dam - Iconic Fishing, Boating and Holiday Location
Wyangala Dam. Credit: Visit Cowra |
Reflections Holiday Parks Wyangala Waters
An easy drive from Cowra, Reflections Holiday Park Wyangala W'aters is the ideal place to escape the pressures of the daily grind and get away from it all'. Take the boat out for some water skiing fun, or sit back and take advantage of Wyangalas prime fishing spots. Let the kids go wild in the bush, building forts and having adventures or bring along bikes or scooters to ride on the Pump Track.Reflections Holiday Parks Wyangala Waters Credit: Visit NSW |
Wyangala
Wyangala Waters Holiday Park
phone 026345 0877www.reflectionsholidayparks.com.au
Wyangala Country Club
phone 026345 0855www.wyangalacc@activ8.net.au www.wyangalacountryclub.com.au
Monday 27 February 2023
MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE PLACES
Places to ski and winter sport in the USA and Canada
Arizona Snowbowl Winter Resort |
The Mountains of Arizona
Steamboat, Colorado
Vail’s, Colorado
Aspen Snowmass, Colorado
Palisades Tahoe, California
The Badger Pass Ski Area, Yosemite Mariposa
Mammoth Lakes, California
Sunday 26 February 2023
NEWCASTLE 500 TRACK BUILD KICKS OFF
New Smyrna Beach, Florida - colourful streets and beaches
New Smyrna Beach, Florida |
Saturday 25 February 2023
Australian Fashion Wee: THE EXPERIENCE PROGRAM 2023
Amilla Maldives Resort and the Olive Ridley Project
Amilla Maldives Resort |
BONZA TOUCHES DOWN IN VICTORIA FOR THE FIRST TIME
Geelong |
Today’s historic flight marks the airline’s first commercial flight to a Victorian destination and the third route launched as the low-cost carrier continues its journey of connecting more Australians than ever before. Later this week, Bonza will go on sale with its Melbourne base which includes an additional 12 routes to the 15 that are currently on sale via the Fly Bonza app.
“Today is a significant milestone as we get wheels up into Victoria for the first time. South East Queenslanders can now fly direct to Avalon for a wide range of holiday experiences in Melbourne, Geelong, the Surf Coast and the Great Ocean Road. Likewise, Victorians can now fly direct from Avalon to the Sunshine Coast to visit loved ones and take a well earned break,” said Tim Jordan, CEO of Bonza.
Flights between the Sunshine Coast and Avalon went on sale last month for as little as $79 per person one way. Bonza will fly direct between the Sunshine Coast and Avalon three times per week with flights available to book on the Fly Bonza app, or with a registered travel agent, until late October 2023.
Avalon Airport CEO Tony Brun said connecting the Sunshine Coast and Avalon would reap benefits for travellers from greater Melbourne, Geelong and surrounding regions: “We are thrilled to partner with Bonza and host the very first flights into Victoria. The route between Sunshine Coast and Melbourne (Avalon) is very popular and is fantastic for Victoria. This launch today provides more choice, competition and opportunities for travellers to enjoy more of this great country. We are proud to make flying easier and accessible for keen travellers!”
Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Andrew Brodie who flew with Bonza customers today said, “The Sunshine Coast is a highly sought after holiday destination for Victorians, and being able to fly directly out of Avalon will make travel so much easier for people who live in Greater Melbourne.
“Similarly, people who have friends or family in Victoria, now have greater options for travel as Bonza will be operating three flights to Avalon a week.
“This new route is also great news for Sunshine Coast locals who love their sport events or who want to spend time enjoying the incredible foodie culture that Melbourne is known for,” Mr Brodie said.
Jordan thanked both airports for their partnership in the lead up to today’s milestone.
“Today is a result of a strong partnership with Sunshine Coast Airport, Avalon Airport and its owners Linfox. We especially want to thank their teams for working hard to make today a reality,” he said.
Travellers are encouraged to download the Fly Bonza app which is the only place to book direct.
*Source:Heather Mollins heather.mollins@flybonza.com 0412 421 411
Friday 24 February 2023
NEW VENUE FOR FIFA WOMEN'S WORLD CUP
LEARN MORE
*Source: Destination NSW
Belize - shoreline and dense jungle
www.travelbelize.org |
BLANC DE BLANC Season extended to 23 April
“Did I mention the skill of the performers? Whether it was risqué cancan in stilettos, striptease, slapstick, vamping, the pole or aerial rings, they were absolutely top-notch professionals. They did not miss a beat and their delivery is sharp, precise and seamless.” Theatre Thoughts
They come from around the world but perform together with familial rapport. This is clever, raucous, vibrant, frenetic fun with near nudity and complete indulgence.” City Hub
“…high-flying French-themed production is as raunchy and adult as ever, shaped into new venue The Grand Electric. The venue – raw, open and charmingly minimal with a vibrant front courtyard – is as much the star of the show as the performers themselves.” AU Review
“Packed with dance, humour, and banging music … a scintillating night of entertainment. A classic piece of cabaret, it bares all – literally and figuratively – to create a mesmerising performance.” Scenestr
“Providing a deliciously hedonistic evening of escapism …this work is a treat for audiences looking for some grown up fun and frivolity.” Broadway World
The hedonistic world of Blanc de Blanc Encore has been wowing audiences since it opened in January in the totally refurbished cabaret venue The Grand Electric, Surry Hills. The Producers, Strut & Fret are delighted to announce that their much-loved cabaret, circus and burlesque show has been extended and will now play until 23 April.
BLANC de BLANC ENCORE serves an intoxicating blend of fun, flirtation and acrobatic feats; enthralling audiences with the same addictive blend of acrobatic artistry and risqué revelry that its creators are world-renowned for.
The star studded, internationally sourced cast with its numerous Cirque du Soleil alumni includes Felix Pouliot from Canada, aerial duo Spencer Craig (Canada) and Caitlin Marion (USA), Remi Martin (Germany/France), and introducing Rechelle Mansour, Melanie Hawkins from Australia, New Zealand’s Emma Phillips and Léah Wolfffrom Canada.
VENUE: The Grand Electric, Theatre No1, 199 Cleveland Street, Surry Hills
DATES: 7 January – 23 April 2023
TIMES: Wed, Thu, Fri 7pm; Saturday 4.30pm & 8pm; Sunday 3:30pm & 7pm
PRICES: Tickets from $70
BOOKINGS: www.blancshow.com
Blanc de Blanc Encore Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BlancShow
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/blancdeblancshow/
Tik Tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@strutnfret
The Grand Electric: https://www.instagram.com/thegrandelectricsyd/
Discover Heritage in Bathurst
Abercrombie House |
Abercrombie House, a 52 room Scottish baronial mansion meticulously restored to its original condition over several generations, is open year-round for the public to take self-guided tours of the house and its expansive grounds. The house regularly hosts special events like high teas, traditional luncheons and local Shakespeare in the Garden productions.
Miss Trails House and Old Government Cottage are often open for public tours on weekends.
Miss Trails House |
Take a self-guided tour of the beautiful established Machtatie Park through the Bathurst Step Beyond App. Bathurst town square Oasis is stunning at anytime of the year and boasts picturesque features like the Band Rotubda and Fernery.
The Milltown recinct in South Bathurst encompasses historic homes and buildings representing Bathurst history as a railway town including the former home of the late Prime Minister and his wife, Ben and Elizabeth Chifley. Chifley home is now public house museum displaying original furnishings in situ that gave a fascinating insight into life in regional Australia during the depression until after the Second World War. In more recent history many immigrants of the late 1940s and early 1950s made the Bathurst Migrant Camp their temporary homes on the site of the former Bathurst Army Camp on Limekilns Road.
Autumn is traditionally the time when Bathurst celebrates its heritage, hosting special events and tours with the Autumn Colors Program and Bathurst Heritage Trades Trail.
For anyone searching for more in-depth history about the Bathurst region, the Bathurst District Historical Society Museum is the place to go and speak with a local expert.
What the Locals Love - Sister Alice Sullivan Perthville Convent Heritage Centre
"Bathurst has some of the loveliest old buildings that can be found anywhere in NSW. I enjoy walking around the old part of the town and seeing so much variety. Take time to enjoy coffee in one of the many delightful cafe or enjoy a picnic in the peaceful local park by the Macquarie river or the spectacular Machattie Park in the centre of town. Don't miss the Begonia House and Fernery in autumn.Mount Panorama - Wahluu |
For the better story of sister Mary Mackillop by booking a tour at the Perthville Convent Heritage Centre which in 2022 celebrated 150 years since its founding. The first buildings date from 1872, and inside tell the story of Saint Mary Mackillop and the early Sisters who came to the Diocese of Bathurst. Learn how the Sisters provided education for children in small country towns throughout the Central West."
Bathurst Visitor Information Centre
1 Kendall Ave, Bathurst NSW 2795(02) 6332 1444
visitors@bathurst.nsw.gov.au
facebook.com/VisitBathurstNSW
https://www.bathurstregion.com.au/contact-the-visitor-information-centre/
Thursday 23 February 2023
HOLE IN ONE FOR REGIONAL NSW
Laguna Golf Lang Co and the Asian Tour Destination
Laguna Golf Lang Co, |
- Sentosa Golf Club in Singapore
- Horizon Hills Golf & Country Club, and Kota Permai Golf & Country Club in Malaysia Parahyangan Golf in Indonesia
- Sapporo Country Club and The North Country Golf Club in Japan
- Black Mountain Golf Club, Aquella Golf & Country Club, and Laguna Golf Phuket in Thailand
- Angkor Golf Resort in Cambodia, and
- Classic Golf & Country Club in India.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat - the fun musical
Euan Doidge |
The show is an early work of Andrew Lloyd Webber, who composed the music, and Tim Rice who wrote the lyrics. Andrew went on to compose the score of many great musicals including The Phantom of the Opera, Cats, Evita, School of Rock, Sunset Boulevard and Jesus Christ Superstar. Time Rice went on to write the lyrics of Jesus Christ Superstar, Evita, Aladdin, and The Lion King.
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat tells the Old Testament story of Joseph, his father and his 11 brothers. His brothers are jealous of the popularity of Joseph so they hatch a plot of get rid of him. They tell their father he died, but in fact they sold him as a slave to Egypt. Joseph has a talent of interpreting dreams so helps the Pharaoh with the meaning of his dream. When famine strikes the 11 brothers go seeking help, and Joseph forgives them for what they did to him and helps them.
The two standout features of the show are one of its main stars and an aspect of its staging.
Paulini |
The sets of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat are very simple and understated. It is the lighting that spectacularly shines the light on the actors on the stage and makes the entire production a delight to see from start to finish. Credit must go to Ben Cracknell the Lighting Designer. He did an amazing job with all the special lighting effects in the show. It would be interesting to know the number of LED's actually used in the show - the number must be huge.
The other main actors and ensemble in Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat did an admirable job with the singing and dancing. Euan Doidge is a handsome young Joseph. (Previosly he appeared in Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, Pippen, Saturday Night Fever and Priscilla Queen of the Desert.) Trevor Ashley is the stunning Pharoah. He has a wealth of experience as an actor, writer, director and cabaret performer.
Special mention must go to the talented children who perform on the stage, either acting their age or being aged into much older adults. The sheep and camels on wheels also deserve a special mention.
What else was enjoyable? The songs and the band that played the music for the singers. The good thing about Joseph is the varied styles of music utilised for the many songs. All tastes are catered for, with a French can-can, Elvis style rock and roll, country and western, 1920s Charleston, Calypso, jazz and a 1970s go-go song. Songs include Any Dream Will Do, Close Every Door To Me, Jacob and Sons, There’s One More Angel In Heaven and Go Go Go Joseph. The band played non-stop with no breaks throughout the show, always providing uplifting toe-tapping music.
Pharaoh's palace, just after interval, looked impressive with the large golden statues. The moving heads and guitars added a Monty Python touch to the musical. It was a piece of Los Vegas in Egypt.
Trevor Ashley |
Disappointments in this production of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat? Not many! The biggest one for me was Josephs technicolor dreamcoat. I suppose I was was expecting something more amazing. It was indeed colourful. However it looked like it was a just a simple trench coat created by a Paris fashion designer for wearing at a small intimate social gathering. It lacked the presence on the large stage it deserved by being just the size of a standard coat and not the size of a large technicolor parachute.
To sum it up, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a light-hearted fun musical that people of all ages will enjoy seeing. It is a great way to spend the night out on the town with friends or family
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is on stage at the Capitol Theatre in Sydney now up until 16 April. Tickets can be bought online at Ticketmaster from $59.
For further information about the musical go to https://josephthemusical.com.au/
Wednesday 22 February 2023
VIVID SYDNEY 2023 LOCAL BUSINESS PROGRAM
Vivid Sydney 2023 will run from 26 May to 17 June and will provide a unique opportunity to create memorable moments in Sydney.
Businesses are encouraged to host a one-of-a-kind Vivid Sydney experience, exclusive offer, or lighting up their building façade or cruise vessel to entice customers to visit, dine, stay or shop. Destination NSW will help promote these activities to engaged audiences on our social channels.
Those involved will receive access to free Vivid Sydney Local Business Program assets to highlight their involvement and attract customers, such as round LED screens or window decals and posters, which will be professionally installed.
If you missed the Local Business Program live webinar, click here to register and view a recording of the session.