Port Stephens Becomes a Destination on Airline Booking Engines And Region Paves Way for Wave of Indian Visitors

Jetstar has started co-listing Port Stephens as a destination for its flights to Newcastle, with Virgin Australia set to follow next month in a move that reaffirms the growing status of Port Stephens, 2.5 hours north of Sydney, as a major destination for holidaymakers and business travellers across Australia.

Newcastle Airport - the second busiest airport in NSW and the 12^th busiest in Australia - will soon see its terminal facilities expanded following a $11.1 million grant from the NSW Government. The airport is located in the Port Stephens council region, just 25 minutes from the Port Stephens holiday centre of Nelson Bay but until this month, Jetstar’s direct flights from Melbourne, Brisbane and the Gold Coast to the region were listed only as ‘Newcastle’. The destination is now listed on Jetstar’s booking engine and flight map as ‘Newcastle- Port Stephens’.

Virgin Australia is expected to make a similar change for its direct flights to Newcastle-Port Stephens in October, 2013.

Destination Port Stephens Marketing Manager, Tars Bylhouwer, said the move by Jetstar and Virgin followed years of liaison with the airlines and was a crucial, watershed change that would boost Port Stephens’ $400 million-plus visitor economy.

“This change in the destination listing may appear to be a small development but it elevates Port Stephens to the ranking of a major interstate holiday destination and reflects the airlines’ confidence in Port Stephens as an increasingly popular drawcard,” Mr Bylhouwer said. “Just as Ballina is co-listed by airlines as a destination as Byron Bay and Maroochydore as the Sunshine Coast, Port Stephens now shares airline destinational ranking with Newcastle, which will lead to more Australians nationwide considering Port Stephens for their next holiday.”

Newcastle Airport at Williamtown now services 170 domestic flights a week and almost 1.2 million passengers a year. Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Qantas Link, Rex and Brindabella Airlines offer direct flights from Newcastle-Port Stephens to Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney, the Gold Coast, Canberra and Ballina/Byron Bay. A 95-room hotel and a 50-room motel, together worth $19 million, are scheduled to be built next to Newcastle Airport in 2014 - the first accommodation at the expanding airport.

Meanwhile, a trade mission to India last month by Destination Port Stephens has led to the region’s inclusion in new fly/drive itineraries and brochured group tours for the surging number of Indian travellers expected to visit Australia over the next seven years. India is one of the world’s fastest- growing outbound travel markets, with Tourism Australia forecasting the number of Indian visitors to Australia to more than double from 148,000 in 2011 to 300,000 in 2020, with new direct and low-cost flights between the countries fuelling the increase.

For detailed information on accommodation, dining, attractions, activities, events, holiday deals and maps, Destination Port Stephens’ new-look website - www.portstephens.org.au - provides a one-stop-shop on visiting Port Stephens.

Australia's Newest Indigenous Festival Launches 2013 Program

The NSW Governor, Her Excellency Professor Marie Bashir, has joined Minister for Tourism, Major Events and the Arts, George Souris, and the Corroboree Council of Elders in launching the official program for this year's Corroboree Sydney, Australia's newest annual, national Indigenous festival.

The program for Corroboree Sydney, which takes place from 14 to 24 November, includes a range of free and ticketed events held around Sydney's Harbour foreshore, arts precinct and parks showcasing Indigenous literature, visual arts, performing arts, live music, films, crafts and design.

Nine of Sydney's premier institutions with strong Indigenous programs have contributed to the Corroboree Sydney program, including Bangarra Dance Theatre, the Royal Botanic Garden Sydney, State Library, Australian Museum, Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, Art Gallery of NSW, Sydney Opera House, Blackfella Films and Koori Radio 97.3FM.

Program highlights include a parade of 1,000 school children through Sydney's city streets in celebration of local Aboriginal culture, a special firelight ceremony and a range of activities taking place at Corroboree Central based at Walsh Bay's historic Pier 2/3 including the Corroboree Black Arts Market, Corroboree Cinema and Corroboree Studio.

"I must congratulate Hetti Perkins and members of the working group most warmly for presenting such a diverse and authentic Indigenous program that will be accessible to everyone and hopefully for many years to come," Governor Bashir said.

Mr Souris said: "The NSW Government is proud to support Corroboree Sydney, an event of considerable importance to Indigenous communities both here in NSW and across Australia.

"Corroboree Sydney will showcase a diverse, vibrant program that will bring together activities, exhibitions and performances produced by some of our most significant Indigenous artists and institutions.

"Destination NSW estimates Corroboree Sydney will deliver approximately $21 million in direct economic impact over the next three years, with an expected 55,000 interstate, intrastate and international visitors to attend.

Minister for Aboriginal Affairs, Victor Dominello, said: "This is an important event that will demonstrate and celebrate the diversity and strength of Indigenous art and culture to the people of Sydney, NSW and beyond.

"Art and culture is a crucial part of the social fabric of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities throughout Australia.

"This event will help provide opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to share their important and vibrant cultures with all Australians as well as visitors from overseas."

Corroboree Sydney's Creative Director, Hetti Perkins, said: "Corroboree Sydney was born from the shared desire of members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community working in Sydney's key cultural organisations to bring to the fore the rich cultural heritage of Sydney and NSW.

"Showcased in the context of Indigenous culture Australia-wide, this festival celebrates the ongoing significance of contemporary cultural expression in the heart of Sydney. We would like to thank the NSW Government for their continued support of Corroboree Sydney."

For more information on the Corroboree Sydney 2013 program please visit www.corroboreesydney.com.au

Discover Manila’s Art, Fashion, Design And History With The Peninsula Academy

Guests at The Peninsula Manila can now experience the city’s burgeoning art, fashion and design scenes, as well as the Philippines’s World War II history and children’s crafts and culinary treats.

These new Peninsula Academy programmes are designed to give guests an insider introduction to key aspects of Philippine culture and lifestyle.

Spirit of Corregidor: World War II History by Helicopter and Land brings to life the drama of the last stand of the combined Filipino and American defenders against the invading Japanese forces. Guests will depart by helicopter from The Peninsula’s rooftop helipad to the rocky island fortress of Corregidor for a private guided tour aboard a 1940s tranvia (tram) to discover the history of major sites, their strategic importance and legacy. Later, a Peninsula page will serve Champagne and canapés before the helicopter flies along the spectacular Cavite-Batangas coastline, taking in Taal lake and Taal volcano. The tour will end with a sumptuous garden lunch at acclaimed restaurant Antonio’s in the hillside town of Tagaytay.

The works of Filipino artists are garnering critical acclaim worldwide, with names like Ronald Ventura and Winner Jumalon fetching record highs in international art auctions. Art aficionados will be fascinated by Art in the Hills: 27 years of Philippine Contemporary Art – a private guided tour of the Silangan Gardens and Pinto Art Museum that house the collection of paintings, drawings, engravings and sculptures of neurologist Dr. Joven Cuanang, an ardent supporter and patron of the best of Philippine visual arts.

Manila is fast becoming known as a global design hub and Manila Design: Experience Philippine Art, Design and Fashion will allow guests to discover firsthand the city’s rich and sophisticated art, design and fashion scene. This tour will visit the galleries and atelier of three Manila style setters – Albert Avellana (art), Eric Paras (interior design) and Jesus “Jojie” Lloren (fashion). Guests will meet the designers in person and over lunch discuss trends and even buy or commission artworks, limited-edition furniture and couture designs.

Other programmes on offer at The Peninsula Manila include a Filipino crafts class for children, a sweet cooking class where kids will learn to make the quintessential Filipino dessert halo-halo, a visit to the grand colonial houses of Taal town, a tour of the old walled city of Intramuros, and a visit to the private studio of Wynn Wynn Ong, one of the Philippines’ most eminent bespoke jewellers.

For more information visit www.peninsula.com/academy

Bentours offers 2 for 1 deal on popular cruises

Bentours, Australia's specialist in travel to Scandinavia, is offering travellers to Norway the chance to bring a friend for free on its Northbound & Southbound Voyages as well as Norwegian Coastal Voyage if packages are booked by September 30, 2013. 

Treat a friend to a holiday this November or December and explore Norway’s impressive rugged coastline, medieval towns and remote Arctic communities on Bentours’ spectacular six day Classic Voyage South from Kirkenes to Bergen.

These voyages offer the ideal way to discover the beauty of Scandinavia and the Arctic. Bentours’ special 2 for 1 itinerary highlights include sailing through the incredible Lofoten Islands, crossing the Article Circle and exploring the famed peaks of the Seven Sisters.

Travellers can also choose an optional Saltraumen Safari to witness the churning whirlpools of the world’s strongest tidal current and if the conditions are favourable, passengers may be able to view the incredible phenomenon of the Northern Lights.

Optional onshore excursions available include; husky sledging, snowmobiling, city tours and trip to the rugged North Cape, the northernmost point of mainland Europe.

Classic Voyage South packages start from AU$1,394 and if booked by September 30 guests can bring a friend for free.  This special 2 for 1 offer is valid for selected dates in November and December and includes twin share cabin accommodation and meals as per itinerary.

For bookings or further information, please contact Bentours on 1800 221 712,res@bentours.com.au or visit www.bentours.com.au.

*Offer terms and conditions:
*Terms and conditions apply. Prices based on two people sharing a twin cabin and are subject to availability. Classic Voyage South 2 for 1 offer is valid for sale until 30 Sep 13 and travel until 31 Dec 13.

The advertised price is based on a Category D Outside/Inside Cabin twin for departures from 01 Nov to 31 Dec 13. Other cabin grades and itineraries also qualify for the special offer at the applicable costs. 

Discount does not apply to optional excursions or safaris. Prices quoted are accurate as at 19 Sep 13. 

Offer is valid for new bookings only and not combinable with any other offers. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply depending on date of travel. All airfares are excluded. Prices are subject to availability and may change due to currency fluctuations. Tempo Holidays trading as Bentours International A.B.N. 51007331213 VIC License 31341

Heritage Christchurch Re-Opened by Governor-General of NZ Today

Heritage Christchurch, set in the 100-year-old Old Government Building (OGB) on Cathedral Square, was formally reopened by the Governor-General of New Zealand, Lt Gen The Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae, on Friday 20 September at 1.30 PM.

Sir Jerry Mateparae, highlighted the strategic location of the Heritage Hotel in his speech to the invited guests that included local and central government politicians, hospitality industry professionals and heritage experts.

"The hotel sits in the heart of Christchurch.  The reopening of the Old Government Building is a potent symbol that Christchurch will be rebuilt, and that after the devastation and heartache of recent times, there is a brighter future ahead," the Governor-General said.

Hosting the official event was Heritage Hotel Management's Managing Director, Mr Jeffrey Tang.  Mr Tang acknowledged the importance of the hotel's building in Christchurch's architectural heritage and as part of the regenerating hospitality industry.

"We are delighted to celebrate Christchurch's 'Heritage' and the reopening of our beautiful century old hotel building, restoring it to the city's priceless inventory of working historic buildings. We are privileged guardians of Christchurch's architectural legacy and look forward to being part of a vibrant hospitality business future for Christchurch," said Mr Jeffrey Tang.

The Heritage Christchurch has been a part of the Christchurch hospitality industry since its opening in 1996 in the site of the former Old Government Building.

The OGB, designed by Joseph Clarkson Maddison in an Italian Renaissance Palazzo style, opened in 1913 and is registered as a Category One Building on the Historic Places Trust register.

The building was awarded the Christchurch Heritage Trust Built Heritage Award in 2010 and the New Zealand Seismic Award 2012 in the Canterbury Heritage awards.

Sequestered behind the red zone cordon for two and a half years, the building recently emerged ready to welcome visitors after a loving restoration.

Also speaking at the opening event, was Dr. Anna Crighton, President of Historic Places Aotearoa.

"The building's architect, Joseph Maddison, capped his distinguished architectural career with the design of this building.  It is recognised as his finest work and undeniably the most impressive and imposing monumental heritage building in the city of Christchurch," said Dr. Anna Crighton.

Cantabrians can take a look through the hotel on the afternoon of Sunday 20th of October, when the building will be opened for guided tours on the hour. Entry is free with a voluntary donation to Historic Places Aotearoa welcome.

The luxurious Heritage Christchurch Hotel offers beautifully appointed one and two bedroom suites and a fully equipped health club with lap pool, sauna and jacuzzi.  For bookings and information visit www.heritagehotels.co.nz

On the left - His Excellency, Lieutenant General The Right Honourable Sir Jerry Mateparae, Governor-General of New Zealand

On the right - Jeffrey Tang, Managing Director, Heritage Hotel Management

Location Heritage Christchurch

 

Heritage Christchurch Re-Opened by Governor-General of NZ Today

Heritage Christchurch, set in the 100-year-old Old Government Building (OGB) on Cathedral Square, was formally reopened by the Governor-General of New Zealand, Lt Gen The Rt Hon Sir Jerry Mateparae, on Friday 20 September at 1.30 PM.

Sir Jerry Mateparae, highlighted the strategic location of the Heritage Hotel in his speech to the invited guests that included local and central government politicians, hospitality industry professionals and heritage experts.

"The hotel sits in the heart of Christchurch.  The reopening of the Old Government Building is a potent symbol that Christchurch will be rebuilt, and that after the devastation and heartache of recent times, there is a brighter future ahead," the Governor-General said.

Hosting the official event was Heritage Hotel Management's Managing Director, Mr Jeffrey Tang.  Mr Tang acknowledged the importance of the hotel's building in Christchurch's architectural heritage and as part of the regenerating hospitality industry.

"We are delighted to celebrate Christchurch's 'Heritage' and the reopening of our beautiful century old hotel building, restoring it to the city's priceless inventory of working historic buildings. We are privileged guardians of Christchurch's architectural legacy and look forward to being part of a vibrant hospitality business future for Christchurch," said Mr Jeffrey Tang.

The Heritage Christchurch has been a part of the Christchurch hospitality industry since its opening in 1996 in the site of the former Old Government Building.

The OGB, designed by Joseph Clarkson Maddison in an Italian Renaissance Palazzo style, opened in 1913 and is registered as a Category One Building on the Historic Places Trust register.

The building was awarded the Christchurch Heritage Trust Built Heritage Award in 2010 and the New Zealand Seismic Award 2012 in the Canterbury Heritage awards.

Sequestered behind the red zone cordon for two and a half years, the building recently emerged ready to welcome visitors after a loving restoration.

Also speaking at the opening event, was Dr. Anna Crighton, President of Historic Places Aotearoa.

"The building's architect, Joseph Maddison, capped his distinguished architectural career with the design of this building.  It is recognised as his finest work and undeniably the most impressive and imposing monumental heritage building in the city of Christchurch," said Dr. Anna Crighton.

Cantabrians can take a look through the hotel on the afternoon of Sunday 20th of October, when the building will be opened for guided tours on the hour. Entry is free with a voluntary donation to Historic Places Aotearoa welcome.

The luxurious Heritage Christchurch Hotel offers beautifully appointed one and two bedroom suites and a fully equipped health club with lap pool, sauna and jacuzzi.  For bookings and information visit www.heritagehotels.co.nz

On the left - His Excellency, Lieutenant General The Right Honourable Sir Jerry Mateparae, Governor-General of New Zealand

On the right - Jeffrey Tang, Managing Director, Heritage Hotel Management

Location Heritage Christchurch

 

Revellers Flock to Jundah for Beer and Bratwurst Bush-style

Thousands of litres of German beer, tonnes of German sausage, and a troupe of traditional oompah-pah musicians are on their way to remote western Queensland for a unique Oktoberfest with a growing international following.

Jundah’s population is about to swell from less than 100 to well over 500 for the 3-day 2013 Jundah Outback Oktoberfest from Friday October 4 to Sunday October 6.

What started as a one-night charity function at the Jundah Hotel in 2010 has grown into a major annual 3-day celebration recognised as one of Queensland’s top events.

“Birdville is famous for its races, but Jundah now has its Oktoberfest,” says local publican Shane Rayment.

“It had attracted international media attention and is getting bigger every year.

“We might be 1,200 kilometres from Brisbane and 12,000 kilometres from Germany, but we’ve had plenty of German visitors say they’ve had more fun at the Jundah Oktoberfest than anywhere.”

The Jundah Outback Oktoberfest is now held in conjunction with the town’s annual race meeting, recalling the origins of Oktoberfest in Bavaria where horse races were held in the presence of the royal family.

But this Outback version takes the theme even further, adding some unique Aussie flavor in the form of the Woolly Caulfield Cup sheep races.

This year also sees the return of the popular 2012 attraction, the Push Pull & Pedal Billy Cart Bash, with billy cart races for all ages.

“Every year we double the amount of beer and bratwurst ordered,” Shane said.

“The crowd just love the authentic atmosphere provided by the large contingent of German backpackers who come to work in the pub.  They wear traditional costume and really get into the spirit things.

“We attract a big crowd of locals from miles around, lots of Outback travellers and even German tourists who’ve heard about our Oktoberfest in the middle of nowhere.”

The Jundah Outback Oktoberfest, billed as the world’s most remote Oktoberfest, began as part of the Angel Flight Outback Trailblazer fundraising rally.

Now in its fourth year and bigger than the organisers could ever have anticipated, it still raises valuable funds for Angel Flight, which provides free non-emergency flights for needy patients travelling to and from medical appointments anywhere in Australia.

Oompah-pah entertainment will be provided by Queensland’s much-loved Bavarian music showband, EuroBand, and guests will enjoy imported German food and beverages, games, dances, colourful costumes, street stalls, and all the racing action.

Accommodation options range from campsites along the Thompson River and powered sites at the Jundah Caravan Park to rooms at the Jundah Hotel.