When we catch up with clients, we love hearing about what they’ve been up to. Travel is a major priority for our retirees in particular. After years of working hard it makes us smile to see them reap the rewards of some well-earned adventures. Whilst travel has been somewhat curtailed in recent months, we know our community is looking forward to the day when we will be free to move around again, and for sure, holiday makers will be warmly welcomed by the hard-hit domestic tourism industry. We spoke to a few of our clients who gave us their top tips.
1. Bedarra Island Resort – Great Barrier Reef
Ian and Heather Osborne recently took a splurge holiday to this very special island and describe it as a once in a lifetime experience.
“Bedarra is a totally secluded spot and has a maximum of 18 guests on the entire island at any one time,” said Heather. “You can ask for just about anything and it happens – we requested Sydney Rock Oysters and the next day they arrived by special ferry delivery!
If you are going to make the most of a trip like this Ian and Heather told us that you must take the helicopter to the island as it is the only way to experience the spectacular scenery – and don’t be afraid to ask for your favourite food, beer or wine!
2. Gippsland Victoria
This is a great region if you are looking to boost fire damaged economies. Venture four hours east of Melbourne to the end of the Great Alpine Road and you will find the picture-book village of Metung on a narrow sandy peninsula on the shores of the Gippsland Lakes. The town is very popular with boat lovers and summer water skiers It is also home to many creative types and there are many farm studios, gardens and galleries selling locally crafted sculptures, jewellery and paintings. Another popular stop off in Gippsland is Mallacoota which is surrounded by the magnificent wilderness of the Croajingolong National Park and set on the beautiful Mallacoota Inlet.
3. Kimberley
According to Garth and Ursula Madill the only way to experience the magnificence of the Kimberley is on a boat. Ocean Dream Charters will take you through this ancient landscape in style. The highlight for the Madills was the incredible fishing spots they were able to stop at. You can depart from Broome or Wyndham and immerse yourself in the natural wonders of the Kimberley Coast including the Horizontal Waterfalls, Ruby Falls, Sale River, Montgomery Reef, Bigge Island, the Prince Regent, Vansittart Bay, King George Falls and the Berkeley. The boat is small taking only 12 passengers which keeps it intimate and no doubt provides the opportunity to make a few new friends.
4. Nullarbor and Kangaroo Island
Natalie Cherry, owner of Noosa Cruise and Travel says that this trip is also proving to be very popular with people keen to put their dollars behind communities who have been devastated by bushfire. Vicki Lee-Sye did this road trip in 2019 and describes the dramatic landscape changes as a highlight. “It’s a great way to get a feel for Australia’s contrasts including ocean vistas and whale watching, giant sand dunes and the dense hardwood eucalypt forests and granite hills of the Australian outback,” said Vicki.
5. Adelaide and the Barossa Valley
If you are partial to some wine tasting Noosa Cruise and Travel say a visit to South Australia is always worth it. “This is a great option if you are looking for an affordable break,” says Natalie. “Packages start from $659 per person including return flights from Brisbane and the deal includes three nights at the Mecure Grosenor Hotel Adelaide, an Adelaide Hills tour and a full-day Barossa food and wine experience.”
