Melissa Woodley

The Sunshine Coast’s ever-expanding dining scene is a double-edged sword: how does one pick between so many fantastic restaurants? Seasonal and locally sourced produce takes centre stage across all cuisines, with everything from modern Asian and Middle Eastern to seafood, spaghetti and steak.  Once you’ve ticked off all the hot spots on Hastings Street in Noosa, make your way south to Mooloolaba’s bustling waterfront for fresh prawns and Asian street food, the sunny town square of Peregian Beach for a paddock-to-plate long lunch, or the scenic hinterland to dine at new farm-to-table restaurant ēthos. Here’s our guide to the best restaurants on the Sunshine Coast, straight from local tips and the well-fed experience of our Travel & News Editor Melissa Woodley. ☀️ The best things to do on the Sunshine Coast🌊 Your ultimate guide to Noosa🍽️ Where to eat in Noosa

The Sunshine Coast truly does have it all – sparkling beaches, peaceful national parks, exhilarating adventures and delicious dining. This tourist haven in Queensland stretches from the super-chill beach town of Caloundra through the resorts and national parks of Noosa, all the way up to the postcard-perfect Great Sandy National Park.  Adventurous travellers flock here to swim in the wild with humpback whales and hike in fairytale forests – but there’s no need to work up a sweat if you’re here to wind down. You can also go on a golden hour cruise with Saltwater Eco Tours, hunt for treasures at the mega Eumundi Markets or float away your worries at Tank Bathhouse. Dive into our guide on the best things to do on the Sunshine Coast right now. ☀️ The best things to do in Noosa🍹 The best restaurants on the Sunshine Coast🌴 Australia's top beach towns

Just a tick over 64km north of Adelaide, the compact Barossa Valley is one of the world’s greatest regions for the best wineries. This is traditional Peramangk and Ngadjuri country, with baking hot summers, cool winters and mineral-rich soils – perfect conditions for producing big, beefy red wines. Shiraz is the local hero, with some mighty fine rieslings emerging from the slightly higher, slightly cooler Eden Valley sub-region, just over the rise. There are more than 150 wineries in the Barossa, and an astonishing 80-plus cellar doors. You could spend weeks going between them, sipping fine wines all day long – but that’s probably not entirely sensible. Why not start with our top picks? Our local wine expert Charles Rawlings-Way recommends visiting the world's oldest shiraz vineyard at Langmeil Winery, settling in for a long lunch and garden wander at Jacob’s Creek, trying bold, fruit-forward drops at Two Hands Wines in Marananga, or soaking up the rustic charm (and regional tasting platters) at David Franz. Here are the best Barossa wineries. 🍷 Best things to do in the Barossa Valley🍇 Best wineries in the McLaren Vale🌳 Best wineries in Clare Valley

When most people think about visiting Darwin, food likely isn’t the main motivating factor. But with steaming bowls of laksa and uniquely Territorian bites, Larrakia land gives plenty of reasons to linger. By day, you’ll come across intimate cafés with creative cross-cultural fare and bustling weekend markets serving some of the nation’s best noodle soups. As the sun sets, Darwin’s dining scene heats up with harbour-front restaurants showcasing tropical fruits and upscale pubs featuring local wildlife, like crocodiles and kangaroos. Our Travel and News Editor, Melissa Woodley, along with NT-based contributing writer, Leah McLennan, keep a weather eye on every nook and cranny of the wee but mighty city – and have curated this list of the best restaurants in Darwin right now. Now, all that’s left for you to do is eat up. Update August 2025: Since our last update in April, we've added two beloved local institutions and a standout newcomer. Cathy's Place still reigns supreme for the best chilli mud crab in town, Lazy Susan's serves up punchy Asian flavours and fresh-faced Junoon shines a spotlight on the NT's finest produce. For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍕 The best pizza joints in Darwin🌳 The top things to do in Darwin🍻 Darwin's best bars

Brisbane is spoilt for choice when it comes to the flavours of India. Whether you crave the smoky flavours of the tandoor, the fiery heat of a North Indian curry, a South Indian delicacy or some lip-smackingly good street food, we’ve got the place for you.   There's a huge range of Indian restaurants in Brisbane offering dishes that cover the array of flavours and dishes the nation is known for, like beloved family-run eatery Taj Bengal, the vibrant Jaipur Palace and the spirited Curryville. With so much choice, Time Out has enlisted the help of a local expert foodie writer to pull together a guide on the top places for an Indian feast. Round up your curry-craving pals and start working your way through this list of the best Indian restaurants in Brisbane.  🥩 The best steaks in Brisbane🍣 The best Japanese in Brisbane 🍽 The best restaurants in Brisbane

Perth's pizza game has levelled up over the past few years, and we now have everything from Neapolitan and Roman-style pizzas to New York slices and our very own Aussie creations. Whether they're woodfired in purpose-built ovens or crisped to perfection in specialist electric and stone ovens, Perth's best pizza features the freshest and finest ingredients from Australia and abroad. Family-owned Monsterella is a fan favourite for its naturally risen 48-hour dough, while Il Locale Pizzeria is so popular that it's expanded to six locations across Western Australia. Here, in no particular order, are some of the best pizzas in Perth, as chosen by our local dough experts. 🍝 The best Italian restaurants in Perth🍔 The best burgers in Perth🍷 The best bars in Perth

Standing in a McLaren Vale vineyard on a hot summer afternoon, gazing across the vines to the shimmering Gulf St Vincent, this place could be Tuscany... But that’s just the wine-tasting talking. McLaren Vale is definitively South Australian – and at just 45 minutes south of Adelaide, it’s also one of the most easily accessible wine regions in the country. Backed by the rippling topography of the Willunga Scarp, McLaren Vale’s agrarian landscape is a gorgeous patchwork of vineyards that was, at one stage, nominated for a World Heritage listing. Shiraz grows ridiculously well in the Vale’s deep terra rossa limestone soils – but with 80-plus cellar doors to visit, you’ll also find grenache, sangiovese, fiano, vermentino and other Med styles with which to blur your afternoon. With so many world-class wineries in the region, it can be a little baffling to choose where to visit. There's a wide array of estates here, from the heritage of Oliver’s Taranga Vineyards to modern, inventive makers like Mollydooker Wines and Alpha Box and Dice. No matter what your palate prefers, there's a drop to suit your tastes. To make the decision easier, Time Out has tasked a passionate wine lover to bring you the best wineries in McLaren Vale. So grab a map at the visitor centre, get someone else to drive and start tasting. 🍷 Best wineries in Australia🍇 Best wineries in Barossa Valley🌳 Best wineries in Clare Valley

Whether you’re a visitor mapping out your first trip to the Emerald City, or a Sydneysider planning a special-occasion staycation, finding the right hotel in Sydney is an important, sometimes overwhelming task. If you’re looking to book a stay that’s extra indulgent – willing to splash the cash on a high-end experience – choosing the right spot is even more important. Luckily for you, we’ve got a team of hotel aficionados who are committed to trying and testing the very best luxury stays in the city, and deciding which ones are worth your hard-earned dosh (it’s a tough job, but somebody’s got to do it). Our expert team includes connoisseur of fine things Time Out Sydney Editor Avril Treasure and Sydney-based travel whizz Melissa Woodley (Time Out Australia’s News and Travel Editor). Each hotel has been checked for its luxe credentials by Time Out Sydney's Travel and Hotels Editor, Winnie Stubbs. From a celeb-approved harbourside palace (Park Hyatt Sydney) to a stunning beachside stay with a rooftop magnesium pool (Manly Pacific), these are the best luxury hotels in Sydney for a super-special stay. 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. RECOMMENDED:Want more options? Here's our full guide to all of the best hotels in Sydney.These are the best glamping sites in NSWAnd these are the best tiny homes and cabins near Sydney for a romantic escape. Time Out makes a small commissio

​​No one’s accusing Sydney of being cheap, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t a few budget-friendly hotels to be found in this sparkling diamond of a city. To find the best affordable hotels in Sydney, we’ve done some digging – and have put together this guide based on location, vibe, comfort and, naturally, cost. Our team of writers (including long-time Sydney local Alannah Sue) have tried and tested each stay to make sure the low cost doesn’t mean you’re compromising on quality. Hotel obsessive (Time Out Sydney’s Travel and Hotels Editor Winnie Stubbs) has triple checked the list to make sure it’s up to scratch.   From an off-the-beaten-track four-star secret (Cremorne Point Manor, we’re looking at you) to a fun youth hostel right on the harbour, these are the very best affordable stays in the city.  NB: Be warned, peak season in Sydney has dizzying highs and even the most reasonably priced accommodation can spike over the New Year’s Eve period. So, shop around if you're looking for a place to lay your head over the holidays. 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. RECOMMENDED:Can’t stretch to that? Pack your tent and check out the best camping spots near Sydney.Or book a glamping tent at this island campsite in the middle of Sydney Harbour. Time Out makes a small commission from the affiliate links included in this article. These links have no influence on our editorial

Hobart’s food scene is undoubtedly one of the best in Australia, and the locals will happily back that up. As will Time Out Australia’s Travel & News Editor, Melissa Woodley, who after dining across every state and territory, can confidently vouch for it.  Tasmania’s food scene is spectacular for a number of reasons. In recent years, spiking rent prices on the mainland have prompted chefs to flock to Hobart to launch their own restaurants. This influx of talent, combined with Tasmania’s naturally bountiful fresh produce, has led to Hobart becoming quite the destination for food lovers.  From tiny hole-in-the-wall bars with 20 seats to a bustling Tokyo-inspired eatery and a French restaurant that sits at the front of MONA, Hobart’s best restaurants are wildly varied, and there’s a plate to suit every palate. Eating out is truly one of the best things to do in Hobart, so here’s our list of the best restaurants in Hobart to score a reservation (or a walk-in table) at. Update August 2025: Since our March update, we've added newcomer Ranita Ramen – an intimate nine-seater spot serving just two noodle soups – along with long-time favourites, The Point Revolving Restaurant and Suzie Luck's For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍷 The best bars in Hobart☕️ Hobart's cutest cafés🌳 All the best things to do in Hobart

Choosing the best hotel to book in Sydney is a delicate art – whether you’re a visitor experiencing the Emerald City for the very first time or a local on a weekend staycation. With so many options to choose between – from beachside boltholes (like the boutique hotel overlooking Watsons Bay) to a trendy converted brewery with a rooftop pool – it can be tricky to decide which hotel is right for you. At Time Out Sydney, we’ve dedicated a good few years to making that task a little easier – picking out the very best hotels in the city based on location, design creds, facilities and that undefinable something that can take a hotel from good to great. Whether you’re looking for a sky-high tower with uninterrupted views of the Opera House, an intimate escape by the beach, or an old-school luxury palace that will have you feeling like a princess, our team of writers (including Editor-in-Chief Alice Ellis and Sydney Editor Avril Treasure) have tried and tested the best hotels in Sydney. To confirm that they should make the cut, this list has been carefully edited by self-confessed hotel addict Winnie Stubbs, Travel and Hotels Editor APAC for Time Out. Read on for our definitive guide to the best hotels in Sydney. Stay in the loop: sign up for our free Time Out Sydney newsletter for more news, travel inspo and activity ideas, straight to your inbox. RECOMMENDED: These are the best glamping sites in NSW. These are the best camping sites near Sydney. And these are the best spots for a

It feels a little lazy to say that eating yourself silly is one of the best things to do in Perth, but it would be disingenuous to suggest otherwise. The culinary scene here is exquisite, with each eatery bringing its own quirks and flavours to the table. And you're in safe hands when it comes to choosing one of the best restaurants in Perth to dine at – our contributing food enthusiast and writer, Dale Anninos-Carter, has lived in The West for 17 years and keeps a keen eye on the hospitality scene for all your devouring needs.  From a charming European bistro tucked inside a heritage hotel to Australia’s very first Hokkaido soup curry house hidden down a laneway, we've scoured out the best restaurants in Perth that are well worth visiting. So, put that appetite of yours to good use and get feasting. Update August 2025: Since our last update, we’ve added a few standout newcomers to the list – The Bridge House, a new mod-Oz charmer in North Fremantle, and Baan Baan, a beloved Thai street food joint in Northbridge. For more about how we curate our reviews and guides, see our editorial guidelines. 🍷 The best bars in Perth🍝 Perth's top Italian restaurants☕️ The coolest cafés in Perth

I’ve stayed at countless luxury hotels and adults-only retreats across Australia, but this might just be my new favourite. I had high hopes for The Crocodile Hunter Lodge – Australia Zoo’s luxe accommodation offering tucked in native bushland on Queensland’s stunning Sunshine Coast. It’s won countless awards, including World’s Best Nature Hotel 2024 and Best Boutique Lodge in Oceania 2025 – and after a quick one-night stay, I can confirm it exceeded all expectations. Inspired by Steve Irwin’s life, legacy and love of the wild, The Crocodile Hunter Lodge is the ultimate tribute to the ‘Crocodile Hunter’ himself. Terri, Bondi and Robert opened this remote wilderness retreat in his honour in 2022, unveiling four new double-storey cabins late last year. The Lodge isn’t just a haven for humans, but a vital sanctuary for both beloved Aussie animals and critically endangered plant species. Its conservation efforts earn serious bonus points, as do unlimited entry to Australia Zoo, a heated infinity pool, and the award-winning Warrior Restaurant and Bar, where guests are treated to complimentary breakfast each day. Trust me, this is the wild side of luxury at its very best. Why stay at The Crocodile Hunter Lodge? Tucked away in native bushland between Queensland’s breathtaking Glass House Mountains and the Sunshine Coast’s stunning beaches, this wilderness hideaway strikes the perfect balance of nature and nurture. An icon in its own right, The Crocodile Hunter Lodge pays tribute to t

Life in Townsville is very much set on the waterfront. With 180 kilometres of coastline extending out to the heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef, it makes total sense that most of the city’s hotels and resorts offer views of the sparkling Coral Sea. But if you want to match those five-star vistas with five-star service, Ardo is the place to be. Having welcomed its first guests in December 2023, Ardo is the newest luxury resort to open in Townsville. And when we say luxury, we’re talking about the city's first and only five-star hotel. Staying here was the thing I was most excited about on my first-ever trip to Townsville. Tucked a little away from The Strand – a hub of waterfront shops, restaurants and parks – it almost felt like I was checking into a private island resort. From the eighth-floor rooftop, you can soak in sweeping views of the city skyline and Coral Sea. Plus, you won’t need to leave the hotel, which houses two chef-hatted restaurants, the town’s only rooftop infinity pool, a dazzling day spa and an impressive rooftop bar with views that will stop you in your tracks. Why stay at Ardo? If you’re craving private island resort vibes without the thousand-dollar price tag, Ardo is your go-to. Right by the water’s edge and on the cusp of the Great Barrier Reef, this five-star stay brings a new level of luxury to Townsville. Perfectly positioned just a five-minute walk from the Sealink Terminal for ferries to Magnetic Island and the Breakwater Marina, where boats head

In a harbour full of skyscrapers and chain hotels, Pier One Sydney Harbour is somewhat of a gem. There’s a high chance you’ve passed this enviably positioned waterfront hotel, located in the shadow of the Harbour Bridge overlooking Walsh Bay – whether on your way from Circular Quay to Barangaroo or while heading to see a show at the Sydney Theatre Company. But don’t let its understated Hickson Road façade fool you – step inside and you’ll discover a stylish boutique stay with character in spades. Strictly speaking, Pier One is part of Marriott’s Autograph Collection – but there’s nothing remotely chain-ish about this boutique-vibe establishment. From the intimate lobby and hidden waterfront bar to the local-first approach of its top-shelf amenities and maritime-inspired decor, every aspect of Pier One has been crafted to celebrate the venue’s location and heritage, while creating a bespoke experience quite unlike anything else available so close to Sydney’s biggest attractions. Why stay at Pier One Sydney Harbour? Originally constructed as a cargo store and passenger terminal for the growing Sydney Harbour precinct, this wharfside warehouse was transformed into a hotel in the late ‘90s. But it wasn’t until Marriott acquired the hotel in 2014 that it underwent a stunning top-to-bottom refurbishment, with further 2019 renos adding a contemporary twist to the historic finger-wharf building. As you enter the timber-clad lobby, Pier One’s distinctive mingling of wrought maritime h

The weather is looking mighty fine this weekend – dare we say, it’s even beach-trip worthy. If you’re heading Bondi way, make sure to hit up Glory Days for the cutest matcha and flower pop-up. This beachside café has teamed up with Petal & Pup – the tastemakers of all things pretty – for a one-weekend-only collab, happening on Saturday, July 19 and Sunday, July 20. Swing by from 8am to 1pm for a limited-edition pink matcha (or just a good old cup of coffee) and enjoy it while overlooking the glorious, famed stretch of sand. The best part is that every matcha or coffee purchase comes with a free bunch of blooms – absolutely adorable! 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. RECOMMENDED READS: In the area? Check out Bondi’s best restaurants. Feel like a drink? Check out our guide to Bondi's best bars. Up for more adventures? Here are the coolest things to do in Bondi.

For a city of its size, Hobart has more than its fair share of impressive hotels. There’s the sleek waterfront MACq01, the boutique adults-only Islington Hotel and Australia’s first dedicated art hotel, the Henry Jones. But it’s The Tasman that continues to turn heads – one of only two Aussie venues to make the World’s 50 Best Hotels list in 2024. You can imagine how giddy I was when I found out I’d be spending a night at The Tasman during a winter trip in Hobart. Although just for one night, I was excited to experience the luxury that’s earned this hotel global acclaim – and it absolutely delivered. Why stay at The Tasman? Anchored on Hobart’s buzzing waterfront, this charming historic hotel was well worth the six-year wait. The original sandstone facade houses 152 rooms spread across three buildings of starkly different eras: Heritage (1840s), Art Deco (1940s) and Pavilion (2020s). The Tasman doesn’t just impress with its award-winning design — it also delivers on dining, thanks to its acclaimed Italian restaurant Peppina and the moody, intimate cocktail bar Mary Mary. Plus, the hotel’s central locale is hard to beat, with the Derwent Harbour, Salamanca Place, Battery Point and Hobart’s CBD on your doorstep. What are the rooms like at The Tasman? The Tasman celebrates Hobart’s maritime heritage with 152 rooms and suites spread across three architecturally distinct buildings, spanning from the 1840s to the present day. I checked into one of the incredibly quaint Heritage r

Come face-to-face with our country’s most topical and trending Australian characters at the nation’s only portrait gallery. From Archie Roach and Adam Goodes to Carla Zampatti and Cate Blanchett, these are the people and artists who have shaped our Australian identity. You can take a squiz at the hundreds of portraits, before popping just across the road to the National Gallery of Australia, Questacon or Old Parliament House.  Time Out tip: Can't make it to Canberra just yet? You can explore the gallery's impressive collection of notorious and glorious portraits online. Address: King Edward Terrace, Parkes Price: Free (excl. some special exhibitions)

At the start of the year, I predicted The Eve Hotel would be one of Australia’s most exciting openings of 2025 – and it looks like I wasn’t wrong. After earning a spot on Travel + Leisure’s list of the 100 Best New Hotels of the Year, I was itching to check in. Two blissful nights later, I can confirm: this boutique beauty lives up to the hype. Opened in February, The Eve is one of the newest kids on the block in the trendy Wunderlich Lane precinct, rubbing shoulders with some of Sydney’s hottest new restaurants, including Bar Julius, Lottie, Olympus and Island Radio. While the hotel has everything you need at your fingertips – from a heated rooftop pool to a luxe spa – it also makes a perfect launchpad for exploring the best of Sydney's inner city suburbs.  What’s The Eve Hotel like? Entering the art-filled lobby from Baptist Street, I almost felt like I’d accidentally stumbled into a contemporary gallery. Designed as a dream collaboration between SJB’s Adam Haddow and 360 Degrees’ Daniel Baffsky, the hotel is both a transporting urban oasis and a delightfully Sydney-centric celebration of place. Soft, organic curves and natural materials set the scene, while pops of colour from custom-made artwork by local artists bring the space to life. The Eve undoubtedly boasts one of Australia’s most stylish lobbies, complete with striking blue couches, burgundy wool banquettes, soothing natural stone walls and eclectic art. Two standout pieces particularly caught my eye: a shimmering

Anyone who knows good hotels knows the Shangri-La. The renowned hotel brand is synonymous with bringing a touch of luxury and peace to urban sanctuaries in more than 20 countries around the world – and the Shangri-La Sydney is no exception. It’s one of only two Shangri-La properties in Australia (the other’s in Cairns), with a third Melbourne hotel in the works. I know I live in one of the most beautiful harbourfront cities in the world, but sometimes it takes watching the sunset on the 36th floor of a famous hotel to remind me just how incredible Sydney really is. The Shangri-La’s biggest selling point is its unobstructed 270-degree views of Sydney’s glittering jewels – the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House. But the panorama doesn’t stop there – it extends from the Blue Mountains in the west all the way to the Pacific Ocean in the east, meaning you can watch both sunrise and sunset without leaving your window (if you’re in one of the Horizon Club Premier Sydney Harbour Rooms). Why stay at Shangri-La Sydney? The unparalleled views of the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House are a good place to start. You can admire them from the sophisticated Horizon Club guest lounge on level 30, the top-floor bar and restaurant (which is also open to walk-ins), or from one of the harbour-facing rooms and suites. These are some of the biggest in Sydney, complete with every five-star luxury you could ask for. The hotel also houses a heated indoor pool, health club and one of the f

Update, May 2025: You can score up to 50 per cent off Noi’s signature three-course menu, featuring a starter, pasta, main and sides – all for just $59 per person. The menu rotates regularly and is available daily from June 1 to August 31. We may have found the cutest dining room in Sydney, and it goes by the name Noi. Tucked away in Petersham, this adorable neighbourhood restaurant comes to us from the same family behind Ormeggio at the Spit, Postino Osteria, Sails and the recently opened Akti – all of which are leaders in the ‘fancy-but-welcoming’ subcategory of Sydney dining. And while Noi is no black sheep, it definitely feels like a stand-alone project from owner Anastasia Drakopoulos (ex-LuMi) and chefs Alessandro Intini (ex-Aqua) and Federica Costa. Noi translates to ‘we’ or ‘us’ in Italian, and true to its name, the space strikes a perfect balance between intimate and communal. It’s the kind of dining room that makes you feel like you could wander up next to the pans and start chatting with the chef, or lean over to your neighbour and pour them a glass of wine. The long dining room is beautifully arranged, with clever lighting and the type of decor that feels effortlessly eclectic, yet you know every detail has been chosen with care. The menu is nice and tight, featuring playful spins on all sorts of Italian classics. Take the cacio e pepe ‘chips and dips’, or the housemade focaccia that stakes its claim on the bar counter. Entrées typically spotlight a single hero cut

Outback station stays aren’t a big thing where I’m from (yep, I’m a NSW kid). But after experiencing one for the first time in rural Western Australia, I finally understand the hype. There's a type of magic here that makes people drive thousands of kilometres to sleep under a sky full of stars, far from just about everything. Among WA’s many outback stays, Bullara Station is one of the most famous. In fact, I’d say it’s one of the most spectacular places to camp or glamp across the country. Bullara’s remote location is one of its biggest drawcards, located 1,170 kilometres from Perth and 90 kilometres from Exmouth. One minute you could be swimming with whale sharks in the Ningaloo Reef, the next you’re at camp, eating burgers with fellow travellers while watching one of the most surreal sunsets you’ll ever see. To beat the scorching summer heat, Bullara only opens from early April to mid-October. During the season, you’re bound to cross paths with all sorts of true-blue travellers – from those road tripping along the coast to folks doing a great big lap of Australia. Pair this with some of the warmest outback hospitality and food that seriously slaps (we’re talking contenders for Australia’s best beef burger), and you’ll never want to leave. What is the camping like at Bullara Station Stay? Camping is where the Bullara story began, and remains the heart and soul of the station stay experience. There are more than 150 powered and non-powered sites spread across this quarter-mi

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

For most Australians, a glass of wine is just a glass of wine. But for the connoisseurs amongst us, it’s almost a culinary sport that’s as complicated as reading code, running a science experiment or composing a masterpiece. Luckily, you don’t need a PhD in wine to discover the best bottles, as the experts have done the hard work for us. This week, Australia’s most trusted wine guide, the Halliday Wine Companion, revealed Australia’s best wineries for 2026 across seven major categories – including Wine of the Year and Winemaker of the Year – as well as 17 varietal categories. Deciding the winners was no easy feat, with the Halliday Tasting Team sampling more than 7,000 wines from 1,000 wineries before crowning the champions. Many of Australia’s most renowned wineries were recognised in the 2026 Halliday Wine Companion, including Brokenwood in Hunter Valley (Winery of the Year), Vasse Felix in Margaret River (Virginia Willcock for Winemaker of the Year), and Thisledown Wines in McLaren Vale (Wine of the Year). Beyond the big names, the awards also shine a light on standout newcomers, top-value wineries and regional hidden gems – including the Dark Horse Winery. Photograph: Supplied | bakkheia Located in Western Australia’s Geographe Wine Region, bakkheia beat nine finalists from across the country to claim the title of Australia’s best underdog winery for 2026. Established in 1999, this boutique vineyard produces just 1,000 to 1,200 cases of Mediterranean-style, minimal-inte

Start filling your pockets with oysters – Royel Otis have just announced a major Australian tour. The ARIA Award-winning indie-rock duo – made up of Royel Maddell (guitars) and Otis Pavlovic (vocals) – have been tearing up the global festival circuit with recent appearances at Glastonbury (UK), Governor’s Ball (New York), Lollapalooza (Chicago) and Fuji Rock (Japan). Now, they’re bringing their cheeky tunes back home for a four-stop run this October, with shows locked in for Melbourne, Brisbane, Sydney and Perth. Royel Otis’ Meet Me In The Car tour announcement comes fresh off the release of the pair’s latest album hickey, featuring their infectious new single ‘car’. After playing more than 100 sold-out shows last year, there’s no doubt their 2025 tour will be in seriously high demand. Here’s everything you need to know about getting tickets to Royel Otis’ Australian tour. When and where is Royel Otis’ 2025 Australian tour? Royel Otis are set to play their biggest Aussie venues to date this October, with four massive shows lined up across the country, including: Melbourne’s Margaret Court Arena – Friday, October 17 Brisbane’s Fortitude Music Hall – Monday, October 20 and Tuesday, October 21 Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion – Friday, October 24 and Saturday, October 25 Perth’s Ice Cream Factory – Wednesday, October 29 and Thursday, Ocobter 30 When do Royel Otis tickets go on sale? If you’re keen to catch this dynamic duo live, then set your alarms – tickets drop on Monday, July 14

l wasn’t surprised to discover that Townsville was named one of Australia’s top ‘up and coming’ destinations for 2024. It might be the largest city in regional Queensland, but it still flies under the radar as a launchpad for exploring the World Heritage-listed Great Barrier Reef. Last year, Townsville North Queensland saw an impressive 11.7 per cent spike in visitor numbers, making it one of the fastest-growing tourism destinations in the country. And it’s only just getting started, with the coastal city set to shine even brighter as co-host of the 2032 Brisbane Olympic Games and 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup. Our advice? Get in before the rest of Australia catches on. Where is Townsville? Townsville is the largest city in North Queensland, sitting approximately halfway between Brisbane and the top of Australia, Cape York. It’s roughly a 15-hour drive north of Brisbane or a four-hour commute south of Cairns. You can also skip the road trip and fly direct from Brisbane (one hour and 55 mins), Sydney (two hours and 45 mins) or Melbourne (three hours). What to do in Townsville? Townsville is an outdoor playground for exhilarating adventures, both on land and offshore. Hiking (or driving) to the top of Castle Hill is a must for breathtaking panoramic views over the entire city and the sparkling Coral Sea beyond. Just 45 minutes from the CBD, Paluma Range National Park also offers a bunch of scenic trails, including Jourama Falls, Mount Spec and Mount Halifax. Pack swimmers for a re

From snappy crocodiles and venomous snakes to palm-sized spiders and not-so-cuddly drop bears, Australia has a reputation as the land where everything’s out to get you. Sure, we live alongside some of the weirdest and wildest creatures on Earth, but it’s not always the ones you expect causing harm. A new study has revealed that animal- and plant-related injuries are now the fifth most common reason for emergency room visits in Australia – and the real culprits might surprise you. Last year, almost 33,000 Aussies ended up in hospital due to injuries caused by contact with other living creatures – a 21.8 per cent increase compared to a decade ago. This data comes from a new iSelect analysis of the latest Australian Institute of Health and Welfare data, covering injuries and hospital admissions from July 2023 to June 2024.  Photograph: David Taffet So, if we’re not all being chomped by crocodiles or bitten by sharks, what’s sending us to the hospital? Considering almost half of Australian households own a dog, it checks out that dog-related injuries top the list – making up nearly a third of hospitalisations linked to animals and plants. Yep, not all four-legged friends are as cute and cuddly as they look. The next batch of culprits confirms every tourist’s greatest fears – think mammals (15.3 per cent), reptiles (6.8 per cent), and insect bites or stings (2.1 per cent). And while snakes and spiders often dominate headlines, they only account for 2.4 per cent and 1.7 per cent

It’s the end of an era for your sushi lunch. From September 1, South Australia will become the first state in the country to ban soy sauce fish packets. This iconic sushi sidekick is just one item on a shopping list of single-use plastics set to be phased out, alongside fruit stickers, straws and cutlery attached to food and drinks, and prepackaged cups and bowls containing meals. While they have tiny fins, these fishy soy sauce packets cause big problems for the environment. Sure, they’re made from recyclable polyethylene, but the fish’s small and fiddly shape means most recycling machines can’t actually process them. Many Aussies don’t even bother recycling them, meaning they end up as litter in our oceans, where they can take hundreds of years to break down. Worse still, their fish-like appearance tricks birds and marine animals into thinking they’re food, often with fatal endings. South Australia has been leading the charge when it comes to sustainability laws in Australia. Back in March 2021, the state rolled out the Single-Use and Other Plastic Products (Waste Avoidance) Act, banning single-use plastic straws, cutlery and beverage stirrers. The government added polystyrene cups, bowls, plates and clamshell containers to the list in 2022, extending the ban to plastic-stemmed cotton buds, pizza savers, and single-use plastic plates and bowls in 2023. The latest list of banned plastic items, introduced on September 1, 2024, included plastic barrier bags used for unpackaged

Wealth means different things to different people – while most measure it in dollars, many would argue that true wealth is also about living a long and fulfilling life. But today, we’re sticking with the value of one’s financial assets to unpack a new study of the world’s richest countries based on median wealth. This year, Australia ranked second out of 56 countries, beaten only by Europe’s Luxembourg. This ranking comes from Swiss bank UBS’s 16th annual Global Wealth Report, built on data from the United Nations, World Bank, International Monetary Fund and central banks worldwide. Instead of solely relying on GDP per capita, the report focuses on median wealth per adult – the total value of assets and investments (minus debts) held by the person in the middle of a country’s wealth distribution, built over time rather than in a single year. This paints a better picture of where money is made and kept, and isn’t skewed by the extreme wealth of billionaires. Australia currently stands as the second-wealthiest country in the world, with a median wealth per adult of US$268,000 (AU$413,000). In other words, half the population has more than this amount and half has less. Meanwhile, Australia ranks fifth out of 56 countries for average wealth per adult at US$620,000 (AU$955,000). Photograph: Supplied | Destination NSW But it’s not all about the cash money Down Under. Australia has the lowest proportion of wealth held in cash, securities and deposits at just over ten per cent – r

If you asked me to name the most iconic Australian of all time, I'd have to go with the late Steven Irwin. It’s a big call, but the ‘Crocodile Hunter’ perfectly captured our Aussie spirit with his fearless love of wildlife, heart of gold and unmistakable ocker accent. Irwin’s crikey energy and passion for conservation live on today through his family at Australia Zoo – where a brand-new retreat pays fitting tribute to the wildlife warrior himself. Tourists and animal lovers flock from all around the world to Queensland’s Sunshine Coast just to visit Australia Zoo – the country’s most famous wildlife park, which Steve proudly took over from his parents in 1992. Spanning more than 700 acres, the zoo is home to thousands of precious native and international animals. Today, Steve’s legacy continues through the Irwin family – Terri, Bindi and Robert – and their passionate team, who carry forward his mission with a focus on conservation, rehabilitation and education. Photograph: Supplied | The Crocodile Hunter Lodge Steve always dreamed of giving visitors the chance to stay overnight in luxury accommodation near the zoo – and in 2022, his vision was brought to life with the opening of The Crocodile Hunter Lodge. Tucked in native bushland just 500 metres from Australia Zoo, this luxe wilderness retreat isn’t just a haven for humans, but a vital sanctuary for both beloved Aussie animals and critically endangered plant species. Given how many international awards it’s won since open

Queensland is renowned for its glorious beaches, island escapes and year-round sunshine – but when the heat cranks up, locals know the coast isn’t the only place to go to cool down. Just 90 minutes north of Brisbane, the Sunshine Coast Hinterland is a lush pocket of paradise where you can swap ocean swims for forest (and waterfall) bathing. Our favourite place to escape the heat is Kondalilla National Park, a fairytale rainforest filled with refreshing rock pools, stunning lookouts and a cascading 90-metre waterfall. The most popular way to explore the forest is by following the relaxed 4.7-kilometre Kondalilla Falls Circuit, which takes roughly 90 minutes to complete. We suggest arriving early, as the car park fills up fast. The trail starts at the picnic area, located around 100 metres downhill from the Kondalilla Falls car park. From there, around 300 steps lead you from the top of the falls down through the escarpment into a lush rainforest valley. Photograph: Tourism and Events Queensland | Reuben Nutt Kondalilla means ‘rushing waters’ in the local Aboriginal language, and in the summer wet season, the waterfall truly lives up to its name. Admire the views from the base of the falls before climbing up the ridge to the start. A dip in the rock pool on the way back is a well-deserved reward for tackling those 300 steps. Photograph: Tourism and Events Queensland | Reuben Nutt Even if you don’t have the time or energy for the full circuit, you can follow the shorter trac

Bondi might be the poster child for Australia’s beaches, but locals know our coastline is lined with thousands of gems that rival, if not outshine, this world-famous stretch of sand. In summer, Sydneysiders tend to steer clear of Bondi because the crowds are just too much to handle. And that’s just one of many reasons that saw Bondi land a spot in a new ranking of the ten most complained-about beaches on the planet. To compile the list, Cloudwards trawled through Tripadvisor reviews for 200 of the world’s most popular beaches, tracking gripes about dirt, crowds, queues and noise. Those keywords were tallied into a ‘complaint score’ out of 100 – but in this case, a perfect score is a bad thing. It’s honestly no surprise that Bondi Beach made the list, landing as the ninth-most complained-about beach of all time. It earned a complaint score of 57.1 – thankfully well below Waikiki Beach, which ranked first with a ‘perfect’ 100 (but not in a good way). Photograph: Anna Kucera If you don’t like sunbaking like sardines, you’ll definitely want to avoid Bondi on a sunny day as it had the highest proportion of overcrowding complaints among the top ten beaches (75.9 per cent). However, this was balanced out by having only a third of the noise or disruption complaints (3.4 per cent) of Waikiki, and fewer 'dirty' reviews (13 per cent) than other high-ranking beaches. One Tripadvisor reviewer said, “[Bondi] Beach is all the hype and show, but it’s like having a bath with your entire fam

Some cities just get Gen Z. Whether it’s buzzing nightlife, creative culture or affordable fun, they know how to help young adults (aged 13-28 in 2025) live their best lives. So Time Out quizzed thousands of Gen Zs around the world to figure out which cities are as good to live in as a 3am kebab after a big night out. This data comes from Time Out's annual ranking of the world’s best cities, which is based on a survey of 18,500 locals who share their opinions on everything from food and culture to nightlife and green spaces. But what makes a city great means something different to each generation, and that’s why we dug a little deeper into the data from the under-30s to find out what they actually value, including affordability, great nightlife, an accessible cultural scene, walkability and ease of meeting new people. Photograph: Supplied | Beyond The Valley Australia’s cultural capital, Melbourne, has landed in second place (slay!), beating out zoomer hot spots like Barcelona, Edinburgh and Mexico City. According to the data, 77 per cent of Gen Z described Melbourne as diverse and inclusive, with a whopping 96 per cent giving high ratings to the city’s art and culture scene. Our beloved city also scored highly for quality of life, with an impressive 91 per cent of twenty-somethings saying the quality of life in Melbourne is ‘good’ or ‘amazing’. We reached out to our Gen Z audience via Instagram to discover exactly what they love most about Melbourne – and yep, the response

Getting stranded in the Tasmanian wilderness isn’t everyone’s idea of fun. Just ask the contestants from the first season of Alone Australia, who were left out here with no food, no shelter and no technology. But that couldn’t be further from reality at Pumphouse Point – Tasmania’s most luxurious wilderness retreat, suspended 250 metres out on a glacial lake in Cradle Mountain. The already luxe property has just scored a $2.25 million glow-up, introducing two fancy retreats to its trio of award-winning stays. Set on the southeastern shore of Lake St Clair amongst ancient myrtle forests, Pumphouse Point is a marvellous contradiction to its UNESCO-listed surroundings. The original hydroelectric station was erected in the 1940s, but after a 2015 renovation, the buildings have found new life housing opulent suites and world-weary travellers. Photograph: Jemima Phelps Pumphouse Point offers three distinct accommodation options. First, there’s the titular Pumphouse, a grand three-storey building floating on water and overlooking the often snow-capped Cradle Mountain. Those who prefer solid ground can opt for the Shorehouse, the old Art Deco substation tucked among the trees on the water’s edge. Finally, you have Pumphouse Point’s most lavish offering: the Retreat. Hidden on the edge of the lake and wrapped in native bush, this all-inclusive Retreat is for guests serious about their privacy. Photograph: Adam Gibson In July, Pumphouse unveiled two new private Retreats with all th

A choo-choo train, a hickory dickory clock, a swimming pool filled with jelly or a Dolly Varden cake – if you were lucky to grow up in the late '90s or early 2000s, these nostalgic bakes are sure to stir up lots of memories. But celebrations looked very different before The Australian Women's Weekly Children's Birthday Cake Book entered the chat and long before Instagram changed the home baking game.  You can learn a surprising amount about Australia's past by looking at its cake evolution. From humble colonial sponges and the birth of the lamington to multicultural flavours and uber-aesthetic creations, every slice serves up a piece of our nation’s history. Let’s dig in. 65,000 years ago Long before ovens were invented, Indigenous Australians were baking scones, damper and ‘seed cakes’ made from crushed native seeds, nuts and roots. They mixed these ingredients with water to form a dough, then roasted them over hot coals or ash, or boiled and steamed them in ground ovens. While not many Aussies are blowing out birthday candles on a damper cake these days, it’s a classic Aussie camping tradition that’s lots of fun to make. Photograph: Nachoman-au via Wikimedia Commons Late 1700s to early 1800s When European settlers first arrived in Australia, they brought with them recipes for bannock (Johnny cakes), fruitcakes, boiled puddings and simple sponges. With limited fresh produce and sugar available, these cakes relied heavily on preserved fruits and dried ingredients. Love 'em