Melissa Woodley

If you ask anyone living in Australia what Coffs Harbour is famous for, chances are they’ll say the Big Banana. This giant yellow sculpture has been a classic pit stop for families travelling between Sydney and Brisbane since the ‘60s – but you’re bananas if you think that’s all the picturesque coastal city has to offer. After capturing the perfect selfie in front of the big ‘nana, head to the jetty for a breezy beachside walk. Follow it up with fish and chips at sunset, or dine in style at one of Coffs’ spectacular seaside restaurants. Here are the best things to do in Coffs Harbour. 🍌 A guide to Australia’s best big things🚘 The best road trips in Australia🌊 Australia's best beach towns

If you’re gearing up for a trip to Australia or planning on exploring your own backyard, it’s worth putting these public holidays on your radar. We’ve broken it down, starting with public holidays celebrated across the nation and then those observed only by certain states and territories. Just plan ahead for these dates to secure the best hotel rooms and free camping spots before they’re all booked.  When is the next public holiday in Australia? The next national public holiday is Christmas Day (Thursday, December 25, 2025). When are the national public holidays in Australia in 2025? New Year’s Day: Wednesday, January 1 Australia Day/Invasion Day: Monday, January 26 Good Friday: Friday, April 18 Easter Saturday: Saturday, April 19 (except TAS and WA) Easter Sunday: Sunday, April 20 (except TAS) Easter Monday: Monday, April 21 Anzac Day: Friday, April 25 Christmas Day: Thursday, December 25 Boxing Day: Friday, December 26 Which Australian state/territory has the most public holidays in 2025? The ACT and Victoria benefit from the most full-day public holidays in Australia, with 13 days off in 2025. The NT and SA both have 12 days off, with additional part holidays on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. What are the different public holidays in each state and territory? Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Canberra Day: Monday, March 10 Reconciliation Day: Monday, June 2 King’s Birthday: Monday, June 9 Labour Day: Monday, October 6 New South Wales (NSW) King’s Birthday: Monday

Winter 2025 update: Two things that are true right now: sh*t’s expensive and it’s cold outside. The good news? You can still enjoy a delicious meal on a shoestring if you know where to look. Keep this guide handy next time you’re catching up with a mate. My current picks? Biang Biang Noodles in Haymarket (go for the lamb and cumin); Banh Cuon Ba Oanh in Marrickville (head there when it opens or in the late arvo); and Bar Italia – it’s Albo’s fave, too. Going out for a meal is sometimes a big occasion, worth the splurge. But it doesn't have to be that way. From banh mi to tonkotsu ramen, biang biang noodles to vegan burgers, and pretty much everything else in between, some of Sydney's greatest culinary hits are the cheapest. Time Out Sydney's local food writers, including Food & Drink Editor Avril Treasure, have eaten their way around town to bring you this list, and while cheap isn't what it used to be, there are still lots of excellent affordable venues to check out. These are the ones well worth their salt. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, food & drink inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. Want to spend less at the big-ticket players? Check out our cheap fine-dining hacks.

Café culture in Darwin has seriously stepped up its game in recent years, and now we’re spoiled for choice with brunches and barista brews that are anything but basic. Narrowing down the best spots is no easy feat, but someone’s gotta do it. Luckily, our local writers along with Time Out’s Travel and News Editor, Melissa Woodley, have chomped and sipped their way through the city's café scene to bring you the best recs. Whether you need a quick caffeination station with the likes of Coffee Man on the way to work, or you’re hunting for a relaxed brunch spot like Eva’s Botanic Gardens Café while on holiday, or a Singaporean spot that’ll change the way you think about breakfast thanks to Kopi Stop, Darwin’s ever-expanding café scene has you well and truly covered. Here are the best cafés in Darwin right now. For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍽 Darwin's best restaurants🥐 The best bakeries in Darwin☕️ The best cafés in Australia

Whether you and your adventure buddy are chasing your next thrill or looking for a stunning spot to unwind, Australia is brimming with all the mushy gushy stuff that lovers, well, love. Think long, long stretches of some of the world’s whitest sand, rolling vineyards that are the birthplace of your go-to date night drops, cosy cabins tucked in the mountains, and sunset locations that rival what you’ve seen on postcards. Our travel writers have scoped the country to bring you this guide of the most romantic getaways in Australia, for everything from anniversary trips to babymoons. ❤️ The best honeymoon destinations in Australia🌸 Australia's dreamiest glamping tents for couples✈️ Where to travel solo Down Under  

Nothing turns your world upside down quite like having a baby. Sleep-ins turn into 3am wake-ups, Netflix nights become Bluey marathons, and spontaneous weekends away? Yeah, good luck with that. Before life changes drastically (mostly for the better), we think you should sneak in one last grown-up getaway – aka a babymoon. Yep, babymoons are totally a thing – and they’re a solid excuse for a holiday with your loved one. Like a honeymoon, they offer a chance to rest and recharge before baby duties begin. We’ve found the best babymoon destinations in Australia, with packages featuring everything from prenatal massages and bump-friendly mocktails to private picnics on the beach. PS: Sleep in while you still can! ❤️ The most romantic getaways in Australia❤️ The dreamiest honeymoon destinations🌸 Australia's best glamping tents for couples

Ah, lovely Launceston. Tasmania’s second city might not get quite so much love as more famous cities on the Australian mainland (or, for that matter, the island’s capital city, Hobart), but it most certainly should. This home of just over 75,000 people teems with stuff to see and do, from gorgeous sights and majestic nature to underrated restaurants. Our Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, explored the city like a true local on a campervan trip and visited all of Launceston's top attractions. Here’s her guide to the best things to do in Launceston, combined with a few insider tips from the locals. 🌳 The best things to do in Hobart😱 The top places to visit in Tasmania🚘 The coolest day trips from Hobart

There ain’t no party like a pizza party, and we’ve got plenty of places worth celebrating Down Under. Whether you’re a slave to the traditional Neapolitan and Sicilian-style slices or crave the carby goodness of a deep dish or New York-style slab, Australia pumps out some of the best pizzas in the world (a close second to Italy, of course). Our Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, takes her pizza seriously. With the help of fellow pizza-obsessed writers around the country, she's created the ultimate list of the best pizza in Australia. Happy eating! 🍝 Australia’s best Italian restaurants🍺 The best bars in Australia🥧 Australia's greatest pies

If you didn’t know already, Australia is home to some of the most incredible hikes on the planet. From week-long treks through red deserts and green mountains to easy day hikes through rainforests and along beautiful beaches, the land Down Under has every possible kind of walk imaginable – and trust us, they’re all bloody good.  If you’re looking at lacing up your hiking boots this year, we’ve got you covered with our pick of the best hikes and walks to do in Australia. Using the age-old philosophy of variety being the best spice, this list has a little bit of everything. From self-guided, kid-friendly day walks to life-changing multi-day treks that can be done independently or in a guided group, we’ve rounded up the most beautiful hikes in Australia. 🥾 The most epic national parks in Australia🌊 Australia's best beaches🤿 The best things to do in Australia

‘Barossa' is a name synonymous with world-class wine. Characterised by its luscious rolling countryside dotted with charming stone churches, this compact region is home to many of Australia’s most renowned and historic wineries, including Penfolds, Henschke and Seppeltsfield.  However, the Barossa Valley is more than just an idyllic place to drink, dine and unwind. Just under an hour’s drive northeast of Adelaide city, the Barossa boasts fantastic farm gates, gorgeous goldfield trails and luxurious lodges, for when you’ve had a glass (or two) too many. Here are the best things to do in the Barossa Valley, including the top spots to drink, eat, explore and rest your legs. 🍷 The best wineries in the Barossa Valley🚗 Here are the best day trips from Adelaide✨ All the best wineries in Australia

Whether it’s a morning pick-me-up, a lazy weekend brunch or just a cup of joe, Perth folks are no strangers to our local cafés. As lovers of coffee and daytime dining, we’re known for trying out new spots all around the city and are always eager to find the next best café in Perth. For city workers, that might mean Howard’s Groove; for southsiders, it’s likely Timber Café; and for those out west, Good Things is no doubt frequented.  We’ve relied on our Perth contributing writers and local eatin’ enthusiasts, Emma Ruben and Dale Anninos-Carter, to create this guide on the city’s best cafés – so trust that there’s some good eggs and equally as good coffee on the table. Keep reading to find the elite brews and brunch bites to match your tastes. For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines.  🍽️ The best restaurants in Perth🥐 Perth's best bakeries☕️ Where to find the best coffee in Perth

When it comes to good coffee, Brisbanites don't have to look far. We’ve got it all: cool inner-city haunts, highly awarded local roasters, chic espresso bars, coffee-tasting experiences, plus enough espresso and cold brew to power the city. From a converted bomb shelter called Bunker to the 24/7 Death Before Decaf and the age-old Industry Beans, these are without a doubt among the best coffee shops in Brisbane right now. Time Out contributing writer and Brisbane local, Brooke Maddison, knows a thing or two about what’s good in the River City and has given these haunts the stamp of approval for the best Brisbane coffee. Go on, check out the jitter juice for yourself. For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🥐 Brisbane's best bakeries☕️ Brisbane's best cafés🍕 Brisbane's best pizza joints

June 5 update: Surprise! Tickets to this event suddenly went on sale on the morning of June 5. Get in quick to nab yours via the website.  Choo choo! The Train of Lights is back on the tracks for 2025 and ready to captivate passengers with a magical winter journey through the Dandenong Ranges for a fourth year. Australia’s favourite steam train Puffing Billy will be your conductor for this trip that illuminates the natural beauty of the region with thousands of dazzling lights. When is Puffing Billy Train of Lights on for 2025? This enchanting winter journey is only on for just over two weeks from July 4 to July 20.  What to expect for Puffing Billy Train of Lights? The whole experience is a two-and-a-half hour round trip. Departing from Lakeside Station, you’ll be immersed in a spectacle of neon colours as acclaimed lighting specialists Resolution X (White Night, Melbourne Fashion Festival) brighten up the countryside with sparkles, rainbows and hypnotic patterns. The historic train will also be adorned with stunning visual effects, which will light up the trees, tracks and passing towns along the way.  Puffing Billy will chug along the historic narrow-gauge track to Gembrook Station where guests will disembark for a 55-minute stopover. Here, you can warm up by the crackling open firepits with hot chocolate and live acoustic music, and enjoy a sausage sizzle by the Rotary Club of Emerald and District. Make your night even more magical by pre-ordering a Puffing Billy picnic

Sunday is probably my favourite day of the week. If I’m not travelling, it’s my self-care day to do all the things that make me happy – trail runs, ocean dips, lazy brunches and, of course, a cheeky arvo nap before the work week begins (something I kind of look forward to because I love my job). Hamilton Island’s newest boutique escape, The Sundays, has taken everything that I adore about Sundays and turned it into an everyday vibe. Located in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef, The Sundays is easily one of the most anticipated hotel openings of 2025 – and after staying there, I can confirm it’s worth the hype. The $35 million price tag is just a hint of what to expect at this boutique beach hotel by the team behind The Whitsundays’ most iconic luxury resort, Qualia. It’s the first new hotel to open on Hamilton Island in more than 17 years and brings a fresh, family-friendly energy to the island. Foodies will be enticed by the Catseye Pool Club, the hotel’s waterside restaurant led by celebrated chef Josh Niland of Saint Peter. Here’s why you should pay The Sundays a visit. Why stay at The Sundays? A literal piece of paradise on an island paradise, The Sundays feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Yet, it’s actually just a few hours’ flight from Australia’s east coast (with direct flights from Brisbane, Sydney and Melbourne) or a breezy boat ride from Airlie Beach. All guests at The Sundays enjoy complimentary return transfers from the airport or marina

If you’re after more than just a space to work out or squeeze in a physio session, Power Potential is for you. This swish, new wellness sanctuary inside The Mill (just next door to The Grounds of Alexandria) offers high-tech treatments for both recovery and relaxation – think infrared saunas, contrast plunge pools, reformer pilates and remedial massages. The philosophy at Power Potential is simple: to combine the power of medical science with the depth of traditional wellness. The result? A two-for-one destination where you can receive treatment and recharge all under the one stylish roof.  What sets Power Potential apart from your run-of-the-mill gym or bathhouse is that every journey starts with a full body scan. From there, their integrative health professionals will create a personalised wellness program for your body’s individual needs. Talk about VIP treatment! While the state-of-the-art facility covers all the bases – physiotherapy, orthopaedic and exercise therapy – its unexpectedly luxe wellness and recovery space really steals the spotlight. Whether you’re an elite athlete seeking muscle relief or a busy journalist looking for stress relief (guilty!), you’ll leave Power Potential feeling so zen that buying a one-way ticket to India and starting a new life as a sunrise-loving yogi is a seriously tempting reality. The luxe wellness space features a three-way infrared sauna, with settings for detoxification, relaxation, recovery and circulation – all with customisable

You don’t need to book a trip to Bordeaux when South Australia has its own world-class food and wine scene. While the Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale are the state’s most well-known wine regions, the Adelaide Hills is perhaps its most underrated. Located just 20 minutes from the city centre, this cool climate region is home to charming villages, world-class wineries, lush forests and five-star stays. One such gem is Sequoia Lodge – an exclusive adults-only lodge, sitting atop the misty Adelaide Hills.  Why stay at Sequoia Lodge? This ultra-luxe property is everything your adult dreams are made of. The 14 plush suites boast a large bathtub with panoramic views of the valley, a spacious private balcony, a sunken lounge room with a toasty fireplace, and a moon window for stargazing before bed. Your luxury getaway also includes 32 complimentary perks, like daily breakfast, a fully stocked mini bar, an inviting infinity pool, an artesian hot pool experience and morning yoga. Say no more! What are the rooms like at Sequoia Lodge? Each of Sequoia Lodge’s 14 suites is identical, meaning you’ll experience luxury at its finest, no matter what your room number. The moment I stepped into my suite, I was immediately struck by the panoramic views overlooking the fiery foliage of Piccadilly Valley below. Whether I was lounging on the plush king bed, relaxing on the comfy L-shaped sofa, stretching out on the expansive daybed outside, or soaking in the bathtub (after retracting the Chromecast

The phrase ‘your phone eats first’ takes on a whole new meaning at The Grounds of Alexandria. In 2024 and 2023, this viral all-day café in Sydney – famous for its sprawling alfresco area, enchanting installations and, yes, huge weekend crowds – was named the world’s most Instagrammed café.  It’s been more than a decade since I last visited The Grounds. Back then, I had to convince my mum to drive me all the way across the Harbour Bridge for a pastry and, much to my shame, a photo op. Now, ten years later, I decided it was time for me to return and see if the café still lives up to the hype. Judging by its almost 400,000 Instagram followers, 123,000 posts tagged #TheGroundsOfAlexandria, and 5,600 Google Maps reviews averaging four stars, I got the gist that it was still going strong. One clear takeaway from my research was to avoid visiting The Grounds on the weekend, when crowds swarm in from all across Sydney – and the world, for that matter. Hoping for a quieter experience, I visited on a Monday morning, only to find the car park completely full by 10am. Those who enter through Bourke Road will first encounter The Grounds’ charming, rustic alfresco area, complete with a miniature animal farm. While I was disappointed to find that ‘Kevin Bacon’ (the café's infamous resident pig) was no longer there, his old pen is now home to two cheerful goats.  Keep strolling past the animal farm, and you’ll eventually find yourself in the gorgeous Garden Bar and BBQ. Here, chandeliers han

When it comes to sustainable dining, Refettorio OzHarvest is in a league of its own. By day, the not-for-profit café serves nourishing three-course lunches to Sydney’s vulnerable communities, free of charge. But every Thursday night, ‘the Ref’ opens its doors to the public for Pay It Forward Dinners, where every ticket pays for four people in need, to dine the following day. If that's not enough, the gourmet meals are completely vegetarian and zero-waste, made using up to 95 per cent rescued produce. It's a win-win-win for your palate, the planet and those in need. The Refettorio, which takes its name from the Latin word meaning "to re-make" or "restore," is a first-of-its-kind social impact collaboration in Australia, brought to us by the food waste warriors at OzHarvest and celebrated Italian chef Massimo Bottura’s not-for-profit organisation Food for Soul. Unlike Bottura's three Michelin-star restaurant, Osteria Francescana, the Ref opens its doors to folks facing food insecurity, serving around 500 guests each week. Talk about a delicious way to make a difference. Part of the Ref’s charm is not knowing what’s on the menu until you’re comfortably seated. Head chef Jez Wick keeps things exciting by changing the three-course menu on a weekly (or sometimes even daily) basis, embracing wonky vegetables and imperfect produce, which have been donated or rescued from local suppliers, supermarkets and farms. Not a scrap goes to waste – any leftover food is fermented, pickled, pres

This century-old working winery is the birthplace of one of McLaren Vale’s most widely recognised wines – Wirra Wirra’s eternally popular all-rounder, Church Block. Ironically, it’s a blend (merlot/shiraz/cab sav), rather than a purist varietal – but when a blend is this palatable, there’s not much room for singular snobbery. Church Block is a stone-cold winner by any measure, but if you are after something more specific, Wirra Wirra does a classic McLaren Vale shiraz too (plus grenache, sauvignon blanc, riesling, chardonnay… all with a sustainable, biodynamic bias).  You could easily spend a whole day here, wandering the wine-stained bricks of the cellar and cavorting on the sun-dappled lawns. From just $40, you can explore the historic vaulted brick facilities (parts of which are 125 years old), gaining exclusive access to Trott’s Cellar and an opportunity to ring the three-quarter-tonne Angelus Bell (just be ready to put some muscle into it). But most folks come here to wine and dine. Tastings start at just $15, pouring some of McLaren Vale’s richest, most fulsome wines and decadent stickies. Directly across from the cellar door, Harry’s Deli offers a seasonally inspired modern Australian menu that you can enjoy inside by the wood-burning fireplace or out in the courtyard overlooking the gum trees. Share local cheeseboards with fine-cured meats and house focaccia, tuck into Harry’s famous Son of Trott Pie, or settle in for a long lunch designed by head chef Taiaha Ngawiki

  The Daintree Rainforest steals the spotlight as the crown jewel of Australia's rainforest scene, but it also holds a world record – it's the oldest tropical rainforest on Earth. Located in the high, emerald tropics of Far North Queensland, this living wonder has more than 180 million years of history waiting to be uncovered. As the largest tropical rainforest in Australia, it spans a staggering 1,200 square kilometres and is home to more tree species in just one hectare than in all of the United Kingdom. Here’s everything you need to know about visiting the Daintree Rainforest. Where is the Daintree Rainforest? The Daintree Rainforest is located in Far North Queensland, just a two-hour drive from Cairns or a quick 45-minute trip from Port Douglas. It’s located within the Daintree National Park, which is part of the broader World Heritage-listed Wet Tropics region, stretching from Townsville to Cookstown. This spectacular rainforest borders some of Australia’s most stunning beaches, serving as a gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. In fact, it’s one of the only places on Earth where a thriving rainforest exists so close to a living reef ecosystem. How big is the Daintree Rainforest? The Daintree Rainforest region covers approximately 1,200 square kilometres, stretching from the Daintree River to Cooktown to the Great Divide. This vast area represents the largest continuous block of tropical rainforest in Australia. How old is the Daintree Rainfo

What is it? Located atop a multi-storey carpark in Northbridge, Rooftop Movies screens films of all genres nightly from October to March. Why go? Round up your mates for a movie night at the cinema with the best views in town. Rooftop Movies plays a diverse line-up of films, with everything from Oscar-winning flicks and throwbacks to blockbuster hits and new releases. Of course, there’s also a candy bar slinging buttery popcorn, local ice creams, juicy burgers and refreshing cocktails.

The name 2KW is shorthand for No. 2 King William St – but don’t go searching for it at street level. This iconic rooftop bar is eight floors above your head, atop one of Adelaide’s most historic buildings. Getting there is part of the fun, involving a mysterious double elevator ride to the top storey. However, a little effort goes a long way for the showstopping panoramic views stretching from North Terrace to Adelaide Oval and beyond. With gorgeous greenery and a stylish mix of low and high-top bar seating, the outdoor terrace bar is the perfect spot to soak in the stunning scenes. But if the ripper view isn’t enough to win you over, 2KW’s ace menu certainly will. The terrace bar serves up a full drinks menu alongside finger-food snacks, build-your-own cheese boards and hand-stretched sourdough pizza. Signature cocktails complete the journey, including the namesake 2KW – a refreshing blend of gin with notes of peach, pear, honey and lemon, plus a foamy finish. For a cool, calm and collected lunch, the indoor restaurant is designed for both intimate dates and group feasts. Executive chef Sam Christopher champions South Australia’s finest produce with a share-style menu designed to impress. Start with gildas and blue swimmer crab toast, before scooping up salt-baked beetroot tartare with fennel seed crackers or spreading creamy Vannella burrata over sourdough flatbread. When it comes to mains, choose from grilled market fish in a smoked eel beurre blanc, slow-cooked lamb shoul

If running a half marathon is on your 2025 bucket list, make sure your race ticks three key boxes: a beautiful location, a fun crowd and an empowering atmosphere that makes you feel unstoppable. Good news for Sydney gals – your search ends here, with the chance to run in Nike’s exclusive, women-only half marathon in Sydney on April 12. Between 2005 and 2018, Nike hosted a hugely popular series of women’s races in some of the most incredible places across the world. Now, the mega sports brand is bringing back its beloved After Dark Tour, with the first race kicking off right here in Australia.  The immersive 21.1-kilometre course will start in Sydney’s Inner West and offer epic views of the city skyline as runners race from White Bay to Jones Bay Wharf to Pyrmont Bridge. Upon crossing the finish line at Tumbalong Park, participants can run straight into an epic post-race celebration, pumping with live music, recovery stations and fierce female energy. You don’t need to be a pro runner to sign up for the late-night half marathon. First-timers can access an official training plan via the Nike Run Club app and stay motivated by connecting with other participants in the lead-up. Yeah the girls! Entry to the Nike After Dark Tour in Sydney is $100 and includes everything from a personalised sports bra fitting (you get to keep the bra) to a race t-shirt and post-race celebration access. Registrations close on February 11, so gather all your gal pals and sign up as a group pronto.  Fo

A magician never reveals their secrets, so I can only spill so much about Penn & Teller’s eight-night stint at the Sydney Opera House. But trust me, the famous pair’s 50th-anniversary tour goes far beyond the classic disappearing handkerchief routine. As the longest-running resident headliners in Las Vegas history, this dynamic duo strikes the perfect balance of traditional magic, unconventional trickery and quirky humour. Their 50th-anniversary extravaganza is ever-evolving, with a nightly rotation of fresh tricks and past hits. If you’re seated stage left, stay alert, audience participation is woven into almost every act: from crazy card tricks and coin illusions to some truly absurd stuff – think a gorilla drinking soup, and a giant squirrel sipping Champagne in a bathtub – the surprises keep coming. The real magic, however, lies in the fact that Penn & Teller have been dazzling audiences together for half a century. You simply have to see it to believe it.  January 11–18, Sydney Opera House, $79–$169. Find tickets & info over here. RECOMMENDED: Here's our guide to the best shows to see in Sydney this month Check out our running list of reviews from Sydney Festival

Update, Tuesday June 10: Due to popular demand, Illuminate Adelaide’s exclusive stadium spectacular, Horizons, will now offer a second show on Friday, July 18. The first performance will commence at 6pm, with a second show added at 8.30pm.  One thing’s clear about Adelaide lately: the city is gunning to equal Melbourne and Sydney’s status as year-round cultural capitals of Australia. And what better way to cement that status than by hosting an after-dark winter festival to rival those on the East Coast.  Illuminate Adelaide is set to literally and figuratively light up the South Australian capital from July 2 to 20 in its fifth year, with 134 free and ticketed events. The 2025 program features nine world premieres and 23 Aussie exclusives, including a new immersive journey at Adelaide Botanic Garden, a debut drone show over Adelaide Oval, an electrifying 12-hour music festival and an all-new culinary program. Photograph: Tyr Liang | 'Night Visions' If you’re after some free, after-dark fun, Illuminate Adelaide has got you covered with its annual City Lights display. More than 40 projections and installations will light up the CBD from July 4 to 20, switching on at 5.30pm every night. Each large-scale projection will showcase the talents of local and international artists, brightening landmarks like the Art Gallery of South Australia, State Library and Adelaide Railway Station. Once you’ve worked up an appetite, head over to Base Camp at Lot Fourteen, the festival’s central

If you’re gunning for the prize of favourite child this year, then forgetting Father’s Day is simply not an option. It’s the one day when you should put in a little extra effort to make your dad, stepdad, grandpa or any father figure in your life remember just how much you appreciate them. Here’s everything you need to know about Father’s Day in Australia in 2025. When is Father’s Day in Australia 2025? Father's Day in Australia is always celebrated on the first Sunday in September. In 2025, this falls on September 7. Don’t get confused with the other countries’ dates, as the United States and the United Kingdom both mark the occasion in June. Why is Father’s Day different in Australia? There’s no official reason why Australia celebrates Father’s Day three months after the US and UK, but a popular theory is that it helps space things out from Mother’s Day in May. Plus, this gives Aussie businesses another chance to promote gifts and throw some epic sales. Is Father’s Day a public holiday in Australia? As much as dad might wish otherwise, Father’s Day isn’t a public holiday in Australia – so most shops, cafés and businesses will be open as usual. What is the history of Father’s Day? Father’s Day originated in the United States, thanks to Civil War veteran and single mum, Sonora Smart Dodd. Inspired by the growing popularity of Mother’s Day, she pushed for a special day to honour the hard work of dads around the world. The day was first celebrated in 1910, it became an officia

Ah, public holidays. They go hand-in-hand with long weekends and the sweet, sweet joy of a four-day work week – two things we can easily get around! In Australia, we’re lucky to score up to 13 full-day public holidays each year, with the exact number depending on where you live. So which state or territory should you move to if you want to maximise your free days off? Australia currently has nine annual public holidays that are celebrated on the same day nationwide, including New Year’s Day, January 26, Good Friday, Easter, Anzac Day, Christmas and Boxing Day. But some holidays, like the King’s Birthday and Labour Day, vary in date depending on the state or territory. Throw in a few local public holidays, and it becomes clear that some Aussies are getting more sleep-in days than others. The Australian Capital Territory and Victoria both benefit from the most full-day public holidays in Australia, with 13 days off in 2025. The ACT gets two bonus days off for Canberra Day (March 10) and Reconciliation Day (June 2), while Victoria gets the Friday before the AFL Grand Final (September 26) and the Melbourne Cup (November 4). However, if we include part-day public holidays, the Northern Territory and South Australia both also score 13 days off. The Top End gets long weekends for May Day (May 5), the King’s Birthday (June 9) and Picnic Day (August 4), plus part-day holidays on Christmas Eve and New Year's Eve (from 7pm to midnight). Meanwhile, South Australia gets Adelaide Cup Day (

It’s been a spectacular start to the winter in the skies above NSW, and we're not just talking about Vivid – a naturally occurring light display (the Aurora Australis) sparkled over regional parts of the state on the very first day of the new season. Now, the astro gods are delivering once again, with this month’s Strawberry Moon set to be the highest full moon over Australia since 2006. Here’s how you can catch the final full moon before the winter solstice in June When is the Strawberry Moon in NSW 2025? The Strawberry Moon will reach its full peak on Wednesday, June 11 at 5.43pm, Sydney time. While it technically peaks in the early evening, we expect viewing will be best after sunset – so rug up, head outside and admire the bright glow of the moon late into the night. You can find the exact time the full moon will peak where you live here. What is a Strawberry Moon? A Strawberry Moon is the name given to the full moon that happens in June each year. Despite the name, the moon doesn’t actually glow pink or red. The name originates from Native American traditions, where the June full moon signalled the start of wild strawberry harvest season in parts of North America. The 2025 Strawberry Moon is getting extra attention thanks to a rare astronomical event called the major lunar standstill. This event happens once every 18.6 years and causes the moonrise and moonset to occur at the most extreme northern and southernmost points. In the Northern Hemisphere, the moon will appear

It’s been a stellar start to winter for twilight troopers, with the Aurora Australis lighting up the sky on the first day of the new season. Now, the astro gods are delivering once again with this month’s Strawberry Moon set to be the highest full moon over Australia since 2006. Here’s how you can catch the final full moon before the winter solstice in June When is the Strawberry Moon in Australia 2025? The Strawberry Moon will reach its full peak on Wednesday, June 11 at: Perth – 3.43pm Adelaide, Darwin – 5.13pm Brisbane, Canberra, Hobart, Melbourne, Sydney – 5.43pm While it technically peaks in the early evening, we expect viewing will be best after sunset – so rug up, head outside and admire the bright glow of the moon late into the night. You can find the exact time the full moon will peak where you live here. What is a Strawberry Moon? A Strawberry Moon is the name given to the full moon that happens in June each year. Despite the name, the moon doesn’t actually glow pink or red. The name originates from Native American traditions, where the June full moon signalled the start of wild strawberry harvest season in parts of North America. The 2025 Strawberry Moon is getting extra attention thanks to a rare astronomical event called the major lunar standstill. This event happens once every 18.6 years and causes the moonrise and moonset to occur at the most extreme northern and southernmost points. In the Northern Hemisphere, the moon will appear unusually close to the hori

Update Tuesday, June 10: Two bursts of cold weather crossed southeastern Australia over the King's Birthday long weekend, resulting in a bumper start to the 2025 ski season. Falls Creek reported 54 centimetres of fresh snow over the weekend, while Perisher received a total of 60 centimetres.  A cool chill has begun creeping across Australia, reminding us that winter is almost here. While many Aussies are clinging to beach days and balmy nights, skiers and snowboarders are crossing their fingers for a ripper snow season in 2025. The past two winters have been pretty disappointing for snow enthusiasts, with warm temperatures delaying the start of the season and rainy weather forcing Australia's top ski resorts to shut earlier than usual. Of course, we can’t be certain what Mother Nature has in store for this year’s ski season, but here’s what the weather gods are predicting so far. When is the snow season in Australia 2025? This year's snow season will kick off on June 7 (the King's Birthday long weekend) and run until October 6. The first Aussie ski resorts set to open for the 2025 season on June 7 include Falls Creek, Mount Buller, Perisher and Thredbo, with the exact start and end dates varying between other resorts. When is the best time to visit the snow in Australia? Peak snowfall is forecasted for August and early September – you can read more about the exact week for each ski field here. What will Australia's 2025 snow season be like?  As we've mentioned, snowfall is

Yep, you read that right. Your next tropical holiday could cost less than your lunch today – and no, it’s not some random remote camping trip (although we love those too). Townsville North Queensland (TNQ) is tempting visitors to come explore the tropics by offering up ten exclusive mystery holiday packages for just $10 each. Seriously, no catch! From reef diving and outback safaris to luxury stays and waterfront feasts, these limited-edition getaways are designed to show off the best of Tropical North Queensland. We wish we could spill more details, but the full itineraries are top secret – only revealed when you arrive. For now, all we can share is the ten different themes for TNQ’s $10 holidays: Luxury, Island Time, Reef, Curious Explorers, Wild, Thrills, Play, Taste, Time Travel and Pause. Photograph: Tourism and Events QueenslandJohn Brewer Reef Among these themes, TNQ has teased a few experiences that might feature on the itineraries, including an adrenaline-pumping dive at the Museum of Underwater Art, adorable wildlife encounters at Billabong Sanctuary, a stunning sunset safari on Magnetic Island, a thrilling helicopter ride over Townsville and a luxury stay at Ardo. You could tick off all these bucket-list experiences by booking your own trip – but why not throw your hat in the ring for one of these suspense-filled $10 trips? Photograph: Tourism and Events QueenslandMagnetic Island So, how can you score a $10 Queensland getaway? You just need to register on the T

I’ll be honest – before last year, I’d never heard of Lady Elliot Island. It was only on a trip to K’gari that I came across this breathtaking coral cay, and boy, am I glad I did. Hidden in the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, this magical island is one of the only places on Earth where you can swim with manta rays and turtles in their natural habitat. But it’s got so much more going for it – the island is fully sustainable, home to a wholesome family-run eco-retreat, and is more beautiful than photos could ever show. The journey to Lady Elliot Island is one of the best parts about visiting. Given that the 45-hectare island only hosts up to 100 day guests and 150 overnight guests at any one time, the flight over feels as exclusive as the destination itself. I couldn’t peel myself away from the window during the entire 40-minute trip from Hervey Bay, aka the 'whale-watching capital of Australia'. Spotting these gentle giants from above is almost guaranteed during peak season (May to October), and I was lucky to see a few flapping their tails in the deep blue below. But the real showstopper was yet to come... As we neared the island, our pilot pointed out a squadron of manta rays swimming near the shore – a clear sign that we’d arrived at the ‘home of the manta ray’. Fun fact: Lady Elliot accounts for roughly 70 per cent of the sightings along Australia’s east coast, with more than 700 manta rays known to frequent the surrounding waters from May to July. Photograph: S

Summer is officially over, and here in Sydney, the event calendar of the cooler months is dominated by one word: Vivid. The multidisciplinary festival of lights, music, food and ideas has returned to the Harbour City for 23 sparkly nights this winter, promising its most creative and boundary-pushing program to date. Reimagined for 2025, the festival is unfolding across five immersive zones – Circular Quay and The Rocks, Barangaroo, Darling Harbour, The Goods Line and Inner City, and Martin Place and the CBD – with a massive 75 per cent of the events program (and the entire Light Walk) completely free. Whether you’re travelling from overseas or interstate, or just a local keen to see what’s new, we’re here to guide you on the best things to see, places to stay and dining experiences to book at Vivid Sydney 2025. When is Vivid Sydney 2025? Vivid is on now, set to illuminate Sydney across 23 dazzling nights from Friday, May 23 until Saturday, June 14, 2025.  What to see at Vivid Sydney 2025? In 2025, Vivid Sydney is bringing us a reimagined program of light, music (you can check out this year's wildy-good music line-up here), ideas and food – all centred around the open-ended theme, ‘dream’. If you’re only in town for one night, the impressive Vivid Light Walk is a must, guiding you past all the biggest and best light projections from Circular Quay to Barangaroo and Darling Harbour. There's also a film-inspired light walk in Surry Hills' Hollywood Quarter, and some stunning imme

Indicators at the ready! The Great Ocean Road is undoubtedly the most iconic road trip in Australia, but it’s time for Victoria's crown jewel to step (or swerve) to the right. Another breathtaking coastal drive has stolen the spotlight as Australia’s top trending road trip for 2025, and it packs in arguably more jaw-dropping sights. But hey, we’ll let you be the judge of that one… To uncover the top-trending routes, the car insurance experts at ROLLiN' analysed year-on-year online search data for 22 of Australia’s most popular road trips. Leading by a long way, the Great Barrier Reef Drive sped into first place, recording a remarkable 117 per cent jump in online monthly searches over the past year.  Photograph: Tourism and Events Queensland Starting in Cairns, this 140-kilometre journey follows the coast north to Port Douglas and then over to the Great Barrier Reef, where travellers can live out their Little Mermaid dreams. We suggest making a pit stop at Mossman Gorge to swim in croc-safe waters, or take a guided Dreamtime walk through the ancient Daintree Rainforest. From there, continue cruising up to Cape Tribulation, where two immense World Heritage-listed wonders (the reef and the rainforest) meet together in perfect harmony.  Australia’s second-hottest road trip right now is the Grand Pacific Drive from Sydney to the Sapphire Coast, which saw an 83 per cent surge in searches. This scenic journey is another favourite for travellers chasing epic ocean views and dramati

Having grown up in Australia, I can confirm it’s a pretty epic place to be a kid. I was lucky to have countless green spaces to burn off energy, playgrounds to live out my Tarzan dreams and top-notch educational institutions that made learning actually fun. It’s no wonder so many Aussie expats move back home to have kids. But which spots offer the best family-friendly lifestyle? To find the answer, we’ve turned to iSelect’s recent study on the best places to start a family in Australia. The health insurance experts analysed government data to compare more than 300 of Australia’s largest regions across five key factors, including child development, childcare availability and cost, healthcare and fertility rates. Located just a five-to-ten minute drive from the city centre, South Canberra came out on top as the best place to raise a family in Australia. This leafy locale is surrounded by many of the capital’s best nature reserves, from the mountain bike wonderland of Stromlo Forest Park to the wild beauty of Namadgi National Park. But it’s not all about greenery – many of the capital’s top cultural attractions are just around the corner too, like the Embassy Trail and Royal Australian Mint. Plus, who could forget the Weston Park Railway at Yarralumla Play Station? Photograph: Visit Canberra | Martin Ollman In terms of actual data, South Canberra ranks second in Australia for both childcare affordability (averaging 20.5 per cent of household income) and childcare availability

There are countless reasons Aussies travel to Japan – some chase bowls of steaming ramen, others take on the mighty Mount Fuji and plenty are there to just soak in a real-deal onsen. For me, one of the biggest drawcards was to step inside an installation by teamLab – the world-renowned collective behind immersive, multidimensional art experiences in Japan and beyond. Tokyo's teamLab Borderless installation was the highlight of my trip, and I’d fly all the way back just to see another one. But now I don’t have to. For the first time, the world-renowned art collective is bringing one of its spellbinding digital artworks to regional Australia – and it’s completely free to explore. teamLab’s exhibitions have drawn huge crowds everywhere from Tokyo and New York to London and Singapore — with tickets often selling out months in advance. Now, for the first time, the world-famous art collective is bringing one of its mesmerising digital experiences, Flowers and People – A Whole Year per Hour, to regional Australia. Landing at Coffs Harbour’s Yarrila Arts and Museum (YAM) from June 14 to August 24, it marks a major moment for the coastal NSW city – and teamLab’s first-ever showing outside a metro area. teamLab, ‘Flowers and People, A Whole Year per Hour’, 2020, Interactive Digital Work, 12 channels (6 channels x 2 rows), Endless, Sound: Hideaki Takahashi. © teamLab, courtesy Martin Browne Contemporary For those who haven’t been to a teamLab exhibition, they’re not something you simp