Victoria’s Heartland promotes winter events, new openings and regional stays

Victoria’s Heartland has released its winter tourism program, highlighting new openings, regional festivals, food events and accommodation offers across Daylesford, Hepburn Springs, Castlemaine, Maryborough and the Macedon Ranges.

WA builds events and aviation pipeline with SailGP return, Rugby World Cup ticket push and new Christchurch flights

Western Australia will host the Australia Sail Grand Prix in Perth in February 2027 as the only Australian stop on the global SailGP calendar, Tourism WA said, marking the return of a high-profile event that drew more than 12,000 spectators to Fremantle/Walyalup this year.

Brand USA launches campaign to reassure foreign travellers

Brand USA, the United States’ national tourism marketing organisation, has launched a new campaign aimed at giving international travellers clearer information on entry procedures, visa questions and other issues affecting confidence in travel to the country, AFAR reported.

AVG Travels faces customer backlash over cancelled tours

Melbourne-based tour company AVG Travels is facing growing pressure from customers after a series of overseas tours were cancelled, rescheduled or placed “under review” shortly before departure, the ABC reported.

Accor to open new-build Sebel hotel in Parramatta in August 2026

Accor will open The Sebel Sydney Parramatta in August 2026, adding a 51-suite extended-stay hotel to its Western Sydney portfolio.

AUKO: Vietnam eco-wellness lodge project to open in Phong Nha in 2026

A new eco-wellness retreat is due to open in Vietnam’s Phong Nha–Ke Bang UNESCO World Heritage area in the third quarter of 2026, targeting growing demand for nature-based and wellness tourism in Southeast Asia.

The Oscar Seppeltsfield: Barossa’s bold bid for a new luxury landmark

The Barossa has never been short of icons. Its old vines, bluestone wineries, palm-lined roads and cellar doors have long made it one of Australia’s most recognisable wine regions. Now, one of its most ambitious tourism proposals, The Oscar Seppeltsfield, has been pitched as the next major step in lifting the region’s luxury accommodation credentials.