Thursday, 15 October 2026

Forest Park Hotel Jasper: A Fresh New Chapter in the Canadian Rockies

Forest Park Hotel
A new chapter is beginning at Forest Park Hotel in Jasper, Alberta, following a major revitalisation that gives travellers a refreshed place to stay in the heart of Jasper National Park.

Surrounded by the dramatic Canadian Rockies and evergreen forests, Forest Park Hotel provides a comfortable base for discovering Jasper's spectacular landscapes, wildlife and outdoor adventures. The hotel is located just minutes from downtown Jasper, combining a peaceful mountain setting with convenient access to the town's restaurants, shops and attractions.

A Freshly Revitalised Jasper Hotel

The revitalisation brings refreshed accommodation and renewed spaces to Forest Park Hotel while retaining the welcoming hospitality that has made it a popular base for exploring Jasper.

The hotel combines Woodland rooms in its original building with Alpine suites in its newer accommodation building. The Alpine suites feature contemporary design and elevated finishes, while the Woodland accommodation provides access to resort-style facilities including a swimming pool, spa, Walter's Dining Room and Hearthstone Lounge.

With 152 guest rooms across the Woodland and Alpine accommodation, Forest Park Hotel provides options for couples, families, leisure travellers and groups visiting Jasper National Park.

A Base for Canadian Rockies Adventure

Forest Park Hotel
Jasper is one of Canada's great mountain destinations, and Forest Park Hotel puts travellers within easy reach of the region's natural attractions.

Days can be spent exploring the spectacular landscapes of Jasper National Park, with opportunities for hiking, sightseeing, wildlife viewing and discovering some of the Canadian Rockies' famous lakes and mountain scenery.

The hotel is also well positioned for visitors wanting to explore experiences such as Maligne Lake, Maligne Canyon and the wider Jasper region. Pursuit's Banff Jasper Collection also includes attractions such as the Columbia Icefield Adventure and Columbia Icefield Skywalk.

A Place for Meetings and Events

Forest Park Hotel is also positioning itself as a venue for business events, conferences, meetings and group programs in Jasper.

With more than 200 on-site rooms promoted for group business and expanded event capacity, the hotel offers event planners an opportunity to combine accommodation, meetings and the Canadian Rockies experience in one destination.

For incentive groups and corporate events, Jasper provides a distinctive setting where business programs can be complemented by outdoor experiences and time exploring one of Canada's most renowned national parks.

Stay Longer in Jasper

Forest Park Hotel
For travellers planning a Canadian Rockies holiday, the newly revitalised Forest Park Hotel offers more than simply a place to sleep. It provides a comfortable base from which to experience Jasper's mountains, forests, lakes and outdoor adventures.

With refreshed accommodation, resort-style facilities, dining options and event capabilities, Forest Park Hotel marks an exciting new chapter for visitors seeking a Jasper hotel close to the town centre and the natural wonders of Jasper National Park.

Forest Park Hotel

Website: Forest Park Hotel – Pursuit Collection
Email: sales@pursuitcollection.com
Phone: +1 780 852 3301
Address: 98 Geikie Street, Jasper, Alberta, Canada

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

A Long, Long Lunch in the Barossa: Where Wine, Food and Country Hospitality Meet

Château Tanunda
Slow Down for a Long Lunch in the Barossa

There are few Australian destinations better suited to a long lunch than South Australia's Barossa Valley.

Imagine a long table stretching across a vineyard setting, local produce arriving fresh from the surrounding farms and gardens, warm bread being passed around and glasses filled with Barossa wine. As the afternoon unfolds, lunch becomes less about watching the clock and more about enjoying food, wine, conversation and the landscape.

This is the essence of a Barossa long lunch.

Australia’s Gourmet Wine Capital

Located less than an hour's drive from Adelaide, the Barossa is one of Australia's most celebrated wine regions and a premier destination for food and wine tourism.

With more than 80 cellar doors, the region offers visitors countless opportunities to taste exceptional wines while discovering the stories of the families, growers and winemakers behind them.

The Barossa's Mediterranean climate, with warm summers and cool, wet winters, is particularly well suited to producing outstanding red wines. Shiraz is a regional specialty, while richly flavoured Cabernet Sauvignon is another favourite among wine lovers.

But the Barossa experience extends well beyond wine.

The region's restaurants, cafes, farm produce and artisan food producers create a destination where eating is an essential part of the journey.

A Taste of Barossa Tradition

Gibson's Wines Barossa
The Barossa's food and wine culture is deeply connected to its history. Generations of growers and makers have developed traditions that continue to influence the region's hospitality today.

Many Barossa families trace their heritage to Lutheran settlers who arrived in South Australia during the 1840s. Their influence can still be experienced through the region's strong sense of community, food traditions and connection to the land.

A long lunch provides the perfect opportunity to experience that connection.

Local vegetables, fruit, bread, cheese and other produce can turn a meal into a celebration of the surrounding countryside, while a glass of wine provides another way to understand the season and the vineyard landscape.

Seppeltsfield Road: A Food and Wine Trail

One of the best places to begin exploring Barossa food and wine is Seppeltsfield Road, a scenic 10-kilometre stretch featuring some of the region's renowned dining and wine experiences.

Among the acclaimed venues are Hentley Farm, fermentAsian, Appellation at The Louise and Vintners Bar & Grill.

Each offers its own interpretation of Barossa food and wine, giving visitors plenty of reasons to linger over lunch and make a day of their visit.

Make Your Barossa Lunch a Journey

Alkina Wine Estate
A visit to the Barossa does not need to be rushed. Allow time to explore cellar doors, meet local producers, enjoy a leisurely meal and simply take in the scenery.

As afternoon turns towards evening, the vineyards take on a golden glow and the shadows of the region's old vines stretch across the landscape.

That is when the true magic of a Barossa long lunch becomes apparent.

It is not simply a meal. It is an experience connecting visitors with South Australia's wine, food, history, landscape and people.

For travellers searching for the best Barossa Valley wineries, gourmet restaurants, cellar doors, local food experiences and wine tourism near Adelaide, a long lunch in the Barossa is an experience worth savouring.

South Australian Tourism Commission

Website: https://southaustralia.com/
Website: https://southaustralia.com/destinations/barossa
Phone: 1300 655 276
Address: Level 4, 11 Waymouth Street, Adelaide SA 5000, Australia

Barossa Australia

Website: https://www.barossa.com/
Tourism information: https://www.barossa.com/

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Paradise for Parents: Oh Shun Blu Brings Adults-Only Relaxation to Paradise Resort Gold Coast

Oh Shun Blu
For families visiting the Gold Coast, finding a resort that keeps children entertained while giving parents genuine time to relax can be the ultimate holiday goal. Paradise Resort Gold Coast is taking that idea further with the introduction of Oh Shun Blu, a new adults-only pool and bar precinct designed as a peaceful retreat within the award-winning family resort.

Set to welcome its first guests at Christmas, Oh Shun Blu will give Paradise Resort guests aged 18 and over a dedicated space to unwind while the resort's famous family attractions continue to keep younger guests entertained.

A New Adults-Only Haven

The centrepiece of Oh Shun Blu is a heated 25-metre swimming pool featuring built-in spa jets, landscaped surrounds, poolside lounging and a swim-up bar serving cocktails and refreshments.

Away from the excitement of the resort's waterparks and children's facilities, the new precinct has been created as a tropical-style sanctuary where parents, grandparents and other adult guests can enjoy some quiet holiday time.

Stage One will also introduce 12 Pool Access Rooms, allowing guests staying in selected Deluxe Resort Rooms to enjoy direct access to the Oh Shun Blu pool and bar precinct.

The second stage is scheduled to open in early 2027 and will add an indoor tapas and lounge bar, further expanding the adults-only experience.

A 16-Year Vision Comes to Life

Oh Shun Blu
The concept has been part of Paradise Resort General Manager David Brook's vision for more than 15 years.

When David joined the resort 16 years ago, Paradise already had a Kids Club and activities for younger guests. Over the years, the resort developed into a comprehensive family holiday destination, adding waterparks, entertainment, activities and attractions.

Oh Shun Blu represents the adult element of that long-term vision, creating somewhere parents can enjoy their own holiday experience while their children make the most of Paradise Resort.

David Brook has been closely involved in developing the new precinct, including its layout, furniture, finishes, décor, name and branding.

More Family Holiday Experiences

The development of Oh Shun Blu forms part of a broader program of investment at Paradise Resort Gold Coast following its purchase by owner Dr Jerry Schwartz in 2020.

New and upgraded facilities have included a movie cinema, full-size games room, multi-storey indoor children's play area, upgraded waterpark, Adventure Playground and Planet Chill ice-skating rink.

Dining has also been expanded with Jerry's Burgers and Debs Pizza Shack, while resort accommodation has undergone refurbishment.

Additional facilities include The Hub, a new home for children's activities and workshops, an outdoor lawn for family movie nights and The Arena, an indoor entertainment space close to Kids Club and the games room.

A Gold Coast Family Holiday With Something for Everyone

Paradise Resort Gold Coast
Paradise Resort Gold Coast has been voted Australia's Best Family Resort for 15 consecutive years and offers a wide range of attractions and entertainment in the heart of Surfers Paradise.

With two waterparks, a lagoon pool and spa, Kids Club, miniature train, carousel, games arcade, daily activities, live entertainment and dining options, the resort is designed around family holidays.

Oh Shun Blu adds a new dimension: a dedicated adults-only retreat where parents can relax, swim and enjoy poolside refreshments without leaving the resort.

For families planning a Gold Coast holiday, it means children can enjoy their own adventure while adults finally have somewhere to enjoy a little paradise of their own.

Paradise Resort Gold Coast

Website: https://paradiseresort.com.au/
Oh Shun Blu: https://paradiseresort.com.au/oh-shun-blu
About: https://paradiseresort.com.au/about
Phone: +61 7 5592 8100
Address: 122 Ferny Avenue, Surfers Paradise, Queensland 4217, Australia

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Radisson RED Auckland: Bold Business Events in the Heart of Auckland

Radisson RED Auckland
For business travellers, conference organisers and incentive planners looking for a hotel with a difference, Radisson RED Auckland brings bold design, creative energy and flexible event facilities to the heart of New Zealand's largest city.

Radisson RED Auckland was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026, New Zealand's leading business events tradeshow, held at the New Zealand International Convention Centre in Auckland in June 2026.

A New Generation of Auckland Hotel

Radisson RED Auckland is the first Radisson RED property in Australasia and is located at 33 Lorne Street in the Auckland CBD, within the city's arts and entertainment precinct.

The 322-room hotel takes a different approach to traditional luxury accommodation, focusing on lifestyle, creativity, art, music and fashion. Its design combines contemporary interiors with Auckland's vibrant cultural character, creating a hotel environment suited to travellers who want their accommodation to be part of the destination.

The central location places guests close to Queen Street, the Sky Tower and Auckland's entertainment and cultural attractions.

Flexible Meetings and Event Spaces

Radisson RED Auckland
For Auckland conferences and corporate events, Radisson RED provides four flexible meeting spaces featuring natural daylight, fast Wi-Fi, audiovisual technology and breakout areas.

The Rock & Soul combination provides 122 square metres and can accommodate up to 110 people, while the Soul & Funk combination offers 89 square metres for groups of up to 65 attendees. The spaces can be configured for meetings, workshops, presentations, celebrations and other business events.

Catering can be arranged for events, allowing organisers to keep meetings, refreshments and dining within the hotel.

Rooftop Dining With Auckland Views

One of Radisson RED Auckland's standout features is its rooftop offering. Aka Rooftop is located on the 15th floor and provides panoramic views towards Auckland's CBD, Sky Tower, Auckland Harbour and Albert Park.

The open-air rooftop venue combines Pan-Asian flavours with cocktails and can be used for social gatherings and private events, providing business groups with an alternative setting for networking, entertaining clients or celebrating the conclusion of a conference.

Designed for Business and Leisure

Radisson RED Auckland
Radisson RED Auckland is also suited to business travellers extending their stay to explore Auckland. The hotel offers all-day dining, rooftop dining and a fitness centre, creating a convenient base for combining meetings with leisure.

The hotel's emphasis on flexible service and social spaces reflects the Radisson RED concept, while its Auckland location connects delegates with the city's restaurants, attractions, arts and entertainment.

For incentive planners, the combination of accommodation, meetings, dining and central Auckland access provides opportunities to create programmes that mix business sessions with city experiences.

Radisson RED Auckland

Contact: Aish Rangarajan
33 Lorne Street, Auckland CBD, Auckland, New Zealand
Phone: +64 9 394 6600
General email: info.auckland@radissonred.com
Events email: Events.Auckland@radissonred.com
Website: https://www.radissonhotels.com/en-us/hotels/radisson-red-auckland
BEIA: https://www.beia.co.nz/suppliers/radisson-red-auckland

For more travel, tourism and business events news from around the world, visit the daily online edition of The Holiday and Travel Magazine at https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/.

Wednesday, 14 October 2026

Bakery China Autumn 2026: Wuhan Rises as a Global Baking Destination

Bakery China Autumn, China Home Baking Show 2026
Wuhan will become a major meeting point for China’s bakery and home baking industries when Bakery China Autumn and China Home Baking Show 2026 take place from 22 to 24 October at the Wuhan International Expo Center.

Bringing together professional bakery businesses, manufacturers, suppliers, home baking specialists and enthusiasts, the combined exhibitions will showcase ingredients, equipment, packaging, appliances, utensils and the latest ideas shaping the baking industry.

For international visitors, the event also provides an opportunity to discover Wuhan, a major city in central China with a rich history, vibrant food culture and growing importance as a business destination.

A Major Autumn Bakery Exhibition

Bakery China Autumn 2026 is the 11th edition of the exhibition and is organised by the China Association of Bakery and Confectionery Industry and Bakery China Exhibitions Co., Ltd.

The exhibition is designed to support purchasing and business opportunities for the important second half of the year, including demand associated with New Year, Lunar New Year and wedding celebrations. The organisers describe it as China's largest professional bakery exhibition during the second half of the year.

The 2026 exhibition will feature more than 600 exhibitors across the bakery supply chain, with around 70,000 square metres of exhibition space and more than 100,000 expected on-site visits.

China Home Baking Show Adds a Creative Dimension

Bakery China Autumn 2026
Running alongside Bakery China Autumn, China Home Baking Show 2026 combines trade, education and hands-on experiences.

The event brings together suppliers and businesses specialising in home-baking ingredients, baking moulds and utensils, household appliances, packaging, decorations, training and baking-related e-commerce.

It is also designed to attract distributors, agents, online platforms, personal baking studios, training organisations, supermarkets and home baking enthusiasts, making it a valuable meeting place for both professionals and passionate home bakers.

Discover Wuhan Beyond the Exhibition

A visit to Bakery China Autumn can easily become a Wuhan food and cultural experience.

Visitors can explore the historic Yellow Crane Tower, enjoy views of the Yangtze River, visit East Lake and discover the collections of the Hubei Provincial Museum.

Wuhan is also renowned for its distinctive local cuisine. Hot dry noodles, soup dumplings, sanxian doupi and lotus root and pork soup provide visitors with an opportunity to experience the city's food culture between exhibition visits.

Plan Your Bakery China Visit

Bakery China Autumn 2026
Bakery China Autumn and China Home Baking Show 2026 will be held from Thursday 22 October to Saturday 24 October at Wuhan International Expo Center, 619 Yingwu Avenue, Hanyang District, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China.

For bakery manufacturers, ingredient suppliers, equipment companies, retailers, distributors, professional buyers and home baking enthusiasts, the combined exhibitions offer three days of business connections, product discovery, education and baking inspiration.

Bakery China

Website: https://www.bakerychina.com/en/page/bakery-china-autumn-china-home-baking-show
Address: Wuhan International Expo Center, 619 Yingwu Avenue, Hanyang District, Wuhan, Hubei Province, China

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Avani+ Hanoi: New Lifestyle Luxury Hotel Set to Open in Vietnam’s Capital

Hanoi is preparing to welcome a new international lifestyle hotel, with Minor Hotels signing an agreement to develop Avani+ Hanoi, a 310-key property scheduled to open in 2028.

The new hotel will introduce the Avani brand to Vietnam’s capital for the first time, giving business and leisure travellers another contemporary accommodation option in one of Southeast Asia’s most fascinating cities.

A New Avani Hotel in Central Hanoi

Avani+ Hanoi will be located in Bach Mai Ward at the intersection of Minh Khai and Kim Nguu Street, forming part of the wider Hinode City mixed-use development.

The development will combine the hotel with a lifestyle mall and more than 1,000 residential and serviced apartments, creating a new urban precinct with accommodation, shopping and residential facilities.

The hotel’s location will also provide convenient access to Hanoi’s historic Old Quarter, approximately a 10-minute drive away, allowing visitors to combine modern city living with the cultural attractions of Vietnam’s capital.

Designed for Leisure and Business Travellers

Hanoi
The new Avani+ Hanoi will feature 310 rooms and facilities designed to appeal to both short-stay visitors and longer-term guests.

Planned facilities include an indoor swimming pool and deck, fitness centre, all-day dining restaurant, specialty restaurants and meeting and function spaces.

The combination of leisure facilities and event spaces is expected to make the hotel suitable for business travellers, corporate events, long stays and holidays in Hanoi.

For visitors discovering the city, the property will provide a contemporary base from which to explore Hanoi’s historic neighbourhoods, cultural attractions, food scene and rapidly developing urban districts.

Minor Hotels Expands Across Vietnam

The signing of Avani+ Hanoi continues Minor Hotels’ expansion across Vietnam.

The group already operates Anantara Hoi An Resort, Anantara Mui Ne Resort, Anantara Quy Nhon Villas and Avani Quy Nhon Resort, as well as The Vietage by Anantara luxury train experience.

Avani+ Hanoi will extend the group’s presence into Vietnam’s capital and represents an expansion of its portfolio from resort destinations into a major metropolitan centre.

The Avani brand is known for contemporary design and an energetic approach to hospitality, making the new Hanoi property a natural fit for travellers seeking a modern urban experience.

Discover Hanoi From a New Urban Base

Avani+ Hanoi Signing Ceremony
Hanoi offers visitors a distinctive combination of Vietnamese history, architecture, cuisine and contemporary culture.

Travellers can explore the atmospheric Old Quarter, enjoy traditional Vietnamese dishes, visit museums and historic sites, or experience the city’s cafés and vibrant street life.

With its location near established neighbourhoods and transport connections, Avani+ Hanoi is being positioned as a hub for guests wanting to experience different sides of the Vietnamese capital.

A New Chapter for Hanoi Hospitality

For Minor Hotels, Avani+ Hanoi represents a significant step into Vietnam’s urban hotel market. For travellers, its planned 2028 opening will bring another international lifestyle hotel to a city that continues to attract visitors from around the world.

As Hanoi combines its centuries-old heritage with rapid modern development, Avani+ Hanoi is set to become part of the capital’s evolving hospitality landscape.

Avani+ Hanoi / Minor Hotels

Website: https://www.avanihotels.com/en
Minor Hotels Website: https://www.minorhotels.com/en
Email: info@minorhotels.com
Phone: +66 2 365 7800
Address: Avani+ Hanoi, Minh Khai and Kim Nguu Street, Bach Mai Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

NSW Tourism Awards 2026: NSW’s Tourism Best Rise to the Top

New South Wales’ tourism industry is celebrating after the finalists for the 2026 NSW Tourism Awards were announced, recognising businesses delivering outstanding visitor experiences across the state.

From accommodation and attractions to events, restaurants, ecotourism and tour operators, the finalists represent the quality, innovation and commitment driving the NSW visitor economy.

210 Nominations Showcase NSW Tourism Excellence

The 2026 NSW Tourism Awards attracted 210 nominations, including 48 new entrants, across 30 categories covering the breadth of the state’s tourism industry.

The finalists were selected following a rigorous assessment process focused on quality and excellence. The awards form part of Australia’s long-running national tourism awards program, which has recognised tourism excellence across the country for more than 40 years.

Entrants are required to meet recognised tourism industry quality standards, with submissions assessed through a comprehensive judging process involving 50 judges, together with a consumer review score component.

Importantly, every finalist meets recognised tourism industry accreditation requirements, demonstrating strong operational capability and high standards across their businesses.

Recognising the Work Behind Great Visitor Experiences

NSW Tourism Association CEO Natalie Godward said becoming a finalist was a significant achievement because of the work and commitment required to reach this stage.

“These Awards recognise more than a great tourism experience,” Miss Godward said. “Every finalist had to look deeply at their business and demonstrate the quality, capability and continuous improvement that sits behind the experience they deliver.”

The Awards also recognise the work that visitors may never see, including business planning, staff development, operational improvements and efforts to build sustainable tourism businesses.

Awards Support Helps Tourism Businesses Grow

The NSW Tourism Association expanded its entrant support program this year, giving businesses additional opportunities to strengthen their award submissions and their operations.

A new mentoring service was introduced alongside draft submission reviews and entrant support webinars featuring contributions from tourism industry experts and Awards judges.

Around a quarter of entrants took advantage of personalised mentoring, while more than half participated in the support webinars.

According to Natalie Godward, the benefits of entering extend beyond the Awards ceremony, helping tourism operators step back from their daily responsibilities and identify opportunities to improve their businesses.

Tourism Driving Jobs and Regional Communities

Steve Kamper
Minister for Jobs and Tourism Steve Kamper said the finalists demonstrate the quality of tourism experiences available throughout NSW.

The tourism businesses recognised in the Awards range from major attractions and events to hotels, restaurants and tour operators. Collectively, they contribute to employment, visitor spending and economic activity in communities across the state.

The NSW Government is targeting a $91 billion visitor economy by 2035, with tourism operators playing an important role in achieving that ambition.

NSW Tourism Awards 2026 at ICC Sydney

The 2026 NSW Tourism Awards will be held at ICC Sydney on Monday 9 November, following Destination NSW’s annual Visitor Economy Forum.

The Awards are proudly supported by Destination NSW, the NSW Government’s tourism and major events agency.

For eligible Gold winners, the NSW Tourism Awards also provide a pathway to the Australian Tourism Awards, giving successful NSW businesses the opportunity to compete for national recognition.

The 2026 finalists now have the opportunity to showcase their achievements on one of the state’s most important tourism stages, celebrating the people and businesses helping make NSW a leading destination for visitors.

NSW Tourism Association

Website: https://www.nswtourism.com.au/
Email: info@nswtourism.com.au
Address: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

Destination NSW

Website: https://www.destinationnsw.com.au/
Address: Sydney, New South Wales, Australia

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Discover the Tiny Beaufort Museum Celebrating the Man Who Invented Vegemite

The Cyril Callister Museum
For generations of Australians, Vegemite has been a familiar part of breakfast tables, lunchboxes and family kitchens. But in the Victorian country town of Beaufort, visitors can discover the fascinating story behind the famous Australian spread at the Cyril Callister Museum.

Dedicated to Dr Cyril Callister, the Australian food scientist who invented Vegemite, this small regional museum offers travellers a fascinating insight into the man, the science and the Australian cultural icon that began its journey in 1923.

Discover the Man Behind Vegemite

Cyril Callister was a chemist and food scientist whose work helped create one of Australia's most recognisable food products.

The museum celebrates his life, scientific achievements and legacy, telling the story of how Vegemite was developed and became part of Australian life.

Located in Beaufort, near Chute where Cyril Callister and his siblings were raised, the museum connects the history of Vegemite with the heritage of regional Victoria.

A Museum Packed with Vegemite Memories

The Cyril Callister Museum
Housed inside a repurposed 1950s service station, the Cyril Callister Museum is an unusual and entertaining attraction for visitors travelling through Beaufort and Victoria's Goldfields region.

Inside, visitors can see historic photographs, advertising, posters, Vegemite tins, jars and other memorabilia. Among the collection are examples of Vegemite packaging associated with Australian Army rations during the Second World War and Mothercraft gift packs from the 1950s.

The museum also explores the changing story of Vegemite through old television footage and the famous Happy Little Vegemites advertising jingle.

More Than a Food Museum

The experience combines Australian food history with science, nostalgia and local creativity.

Cyril's Lab recreates the laboratory environment associated with the development of Vegemite and provides interactive science activities for school groups. Visitors can also discover Vegemite-inspired artwork created by local students and artists.

For those with a sweet tooth or an adventurous palate, the museum has also featured unusual Vegemite-inspired treats, including Vegemite pies and Vegemite ice cream.

Plan a Beaufort Food History Visit

Cyril Callister grave
The Cyril Callister Museum is located at 23 Neill Street in Beaufort, a historic Victorian town approximately 2.5 hours northwest of Melbourne by road.

The museum is currently open Thursday to Sunday from 11am to 2pm. Admission is $5 for adults, while children under 18 enter free. A self-guided museum experience allows visitors to explore the collection at their own pace. Guided tours are also available for groups and include a cuppa and a Vegemite-inspired treat.

Whether you are a lifelong Vegemite lover, interested in Australian inventions, fascinated by food history or simply searching for unusual things to do in regional Victoria, the Cyril Callister Museum is a memorable stop in Beaufort.

Cyril Callister Museum

Website: https://cyrilcallisterfoundation.org/
Email: info@cyrilcallisterfoundation.org
Phone: 0414 082 754
Address: 23 Neill Street, Beaufort VIC 3373

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Parkes Elvis Festival 2027: Elvis Takes Over Three Iconic Parkes Venues

The Parkes Leagues Club 
Elvis Presley fans heading to the Parkes Elvis Festival in January 2027 will have plenty of opportunities to experience the music and magic of the King, with Parkes Leagues Club, Parkes Services Club and the Vegas Theatre presenting an impressive program of concerts and specialty shows.

Running from 6 to 10 January 2027, the Parkes Elvis Festival returns for its 34th year, with hundreds of events taking place throughout the Central West NSW town. The 2027 festival celebrates the theme Elvis On Tour and promises five days of concerts, tribute artists, entertainment and Elvis-inspired experiences.

Parkes Leagues Club Takes Centre Stage

The Parkes Leagues Club will be one of the major entertainment hubs during the festival, hosting headline concerts featuring internationally recognised Elvis Tribute Artists.

A festival first will see 2027 Wall of Fame inductee Mark Andrew perform My Story as Elvis on Wednesday 6 January. The special concert takes audiences through Andrew's more than 30-year journey as an Elvis performer before transforming into a celebration of the music and stage presence of Elvis Presley.

Festival favourites Taylor Rodriguez and Charlie Gaylard will headline a series of concerts exploring different periods and styles of Elvis's career, including From Tupelo to Vegas, Love Letters, Solid Gold Hits, Lights, Camera, Elvis and Elvis Across America.

The program also includes solo Up Close and Personal performances from Charlie Gaylard and Taylor Rodriguez, while the official festival finale, Bring The Curtain Down, brings together Dean Z and other leading performers.

Parkes Services Club Brings Elvis Stories to Life

Parkes Services Club
The entertainment continues at Parkes Services Club, where Donna Presley will present From My Heart.

The presentation provides audiences with personal stories and reflections from a member of the Presley family, offering a different perspective on the man behind the legendary music.

The venue will also feature The Tour Begins Here! with Tristan James, Elvis: The Next Generation featuring Anthony Fenech and Brody Finlay, and That's The Way It Was with Sean Luke Spiteri and Josuel Grech.

Vegas Theatre Celebrates Elvis Across the Eras

Vegas Theatre
For fans wanting a more intimate concert experience, the Vegas Theatre at Parkes Little Theatre presents a specialised program of Elvis performances.

Highlights include Houston 1970, '68-'69 Magic, Class of '59, '71 Australia: The Concert That Should Have Been, Toki in Concert, Ultimate Elvis Returns and If I Can Dream.

International and Australian performers come together for productions including Malta to Memphis, The Ultimate Concert Elvis Champions and Rare Gems & B-Sides.

Among the featured performers are Ted Torres, Toki Toyokazu, Taurean K Mill, Paul Fenech and Josuel Grech. The official program confirms multiple Vegas Theatre concerts across the festival's five days.

Make Parkes Your Elvis Holiday

The Parkes Leagues Club 
The Parkes Elvis Festival is more than a music festival. It is a regional NSW holiday experience combining live entertainment, costumes, classic cars, street celebrations, food, local attractions and the welcoming atmosphere of Parkes.

With events spread across the town, visitors can build their own Elvis itinerary and explore the wider Parkes region while enjoying five days of rock and roll entertainment.

The 2027 Parkes Elvis Festival runs from 6 to 10 January 2027. Visitors should book accommodation and major concert tickets early, as the festival attracts tens of thousands of Elvis fans.

Parkes Elvis Festival

Website: https://www.parkeselvisfestival.com.au/
Email: elvis@parkes.nsw.gov.au
Phone: (02) 6862 6000
Address: PO Box 337, Parkes NSW 2870
Festival dates: 6 to 10 January 2027

Parkes Leagues Club

Website: https://parkesleaguesclub.com.au/
Phone: (02) 6863 8895
Address: 194 Clarinda Street, Parkes NSW 2870

Parkes Services Club

Website: https://parkesservicesclub.com.au/
Phone: (02) 6862 1966
Address: 9/17 Short Street, Parkes NSW 2870

Parkes Little Theatre

Address: 34 Bogan Street, Parkes NSW 2870

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

RealNZ: Discover the Best of Southern New Zealand Through Unforgettable Experiences

RealNZ
For conference organisers, incentive planners and business event professionals looking to add memorable experiences to a New Zealand programme, RealNZ offers an impressive collection of adventures across some of Southern New Zealand's most spectacular destinations.

RealNZ was one of the exhibitors at MEETINGS 2026 in Auckland, connecting with business event professionals seeking distinctive experiences for conferences, incentives, meetings and corporate groups.

Exploring Southern New Zealand with RealNZ

RealNZ has been operating since 1954 and has built its reputation around creating experiences that connect visitors with the natural environment. The company operates a diverse portfolio of tourism experiences across Queenstown, Fiordland and other parts of Southern New Zealand.

Its experiences provide business event groups with opportunities to discover some of the country's most remarkable scenery, from magnificent alpine landscapes to pristine fiords and waterways.

For incentive groups, these experiences can provide an exciting change of pace from conference rooms, allowing delegates to explore the spectacular landscapes that make New Zealand such a sought-after destination.

Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound Experiences

Two of the standout destinations in the RealNZ portfolio are Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound in Fiordland National Park.

Scenic cruises provide visitors with an opportunity to experience towering mountains, dramatic waterfalls, rainforest and the tranquil waters of the fiords. These experiences can be incorporated into leisure itineraries, incentive programmes and pre- or post-conference touring.

Doubtful Sound offers a particularly immersive wilderness experience, while Milford Sound is one of New Zealand's best-known natural attractions.

The TSS Earnslaw in Queenstown

In Queenstown, RealNZ operates the historic TSS Earnslaw steamship, one of the region's most recognisable attractions.

The vintage steamship cruises Lake Whakatipu and provides an atmospheric way for groups to experience Queenstown's alpine scenery. For corporate and incentive groups, a lake cruise can become a memorable component of a wider Queenstown itinerary.

The TSS Earnslaw offers an experience that combines heritage, scenery and hospitality, making it particularly suited to groups wanting something beyond a conventional conference function.

Tourism With a Purpose

RealNZ
RealNZ describes itself as being "in business for good", with conservation at the heart of its approach to tourism.

The company believes tourism can help people connect with precious and remote environments while creating greater appreciation for their importance. Its philosophy is based on creating rich experiences that encourage visitors to develop a stronger connection with nature and support its protection for future generations.

This focus makes RealNZ particularly relevant to business events planners seeking meaningful experiences that complement sustainability and responsible tourism objectives.

More Southern New Zealand Adventures

RealNZ's wider portfolio extends beyond cruises and includes experiences and destinations across Southern New Zealand, including ski destinations such as Cardrona Alpine Resort and Treble Cone.

Together, the company's range of experiences provides business event planners with numerous possibilities for building distinctive incentive itineraries around Queenstown and the wider South Island.

For delegates travelling to New Zealand for a conference or incentive programme, RealNZ can provide opportunities to experience the landscapes, heritage and wilderness that make Southern New Zealand so special.

RealNZ

Attention: Lou Baddiley
Level 2, 74 Shotover Street, Queenstown, New Zealand
Phone: +64 22 265 031
Website: https://www.realnz.com/
BEIA: https://www.beia.co.nz/suppliers/realnz

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