australia - scenic tours® · australia 2009/2010 the kimberley • top end • cape york •...

AUSTRALIA

www.outbackdiscovery.com.au

2009/2010

THE KIMBERLEY • TOP END • CAPE YORK • OUTBACK QUEENSLAND TANAMI DESERT • WESTERN WILDFLOWERS • TASMANIA • FLINDERS RANGES KANGAROO ISLAND • EYRE PENINSULA • SAVANNAH WAY • NULLARBOR PLAIN

Timeless landscapes, historic settlements, vast cattle stations and quirky characters

are all endearing symbols of the Australian outback. There are so many amazing

places to see and people to meet in this great country of ours, and Outback Discovery

are the experts in showing you not only the icons, but also the hidden treasures that

will make your journey special. Backed by Scenic Tours’ more than 20 years of

experience, Outback Discovery has established an excellent reputation as one of

Australia’s leading providers of tours to Australia’s outback and regional areas.

Our tours are truly all-inclusive so that you receive exceptional value for money whilst

enjoying an unforgettable holiday. Join one of our small group 4WD adventures for an

intimate experience of Australia which takes you to parts of the country inaccessible to

many. With a wide choice of innovative itineraries, your journey will be anything but run

of the mill. Our brand new fleet of All Terrain 4WD luxury Mercedes Benz vehicles provide

the ultimate in safety and comfort to satisfy the most discerning traveller. Pulling this all

together are our Tour Managers and Drivers. They are the best in the business and their

knowledge and enthusiasm combine to give you the holiday of a lifetime.

Come and experience the real Australia with Outback Discovery. We look forward to

welcoming you onboard soon!

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Glen MoroneyFounder and Managing Director, Outback Discovery

WELCOMEto Outback Discovery

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The Kimberley & Top End15 Day Kimberley Spectacular 20-2115 Day Kimberley & Top End Explorer - Broome to Darwin 22-2315 Day Kimberley & Top End Explorer - Darwin to Broome 24-25

Outback Queensland & Corner Country25 Day Gulf Savannah Way - Cairns to Broome 26-29

25 Day Gulf Savannah Way - Broome to Cairns 30-33

11 Day Cape York Expedition - Cairns to Cairns Northbound 34-35

11 Day Cape York Expedition - Cairns to Cairns Southbound 36-37

16 Day Outback Queensland Adventure - Brisbane to Cairns 38-39

16 Day Outback Queensland Adventure - Cairns to Brisbane 40-41

Coast to Coast8/11/17 Day Across the Nullarbor 42-43

Red Centre & Beyond11/17/33 Day Grand Australia 44-47

18/24 Day Red Centre, Kimberley & Top End 48-49

Western Australia15 Day Spring Wildflowers & Monkey Mia 50-51

Tasmania12 Day Tasmanian Wilderness Explorer 52-53

Southern Australia14 Day Kangaroo Island & Flinders Ranges 54-55

Additional Activities 56

Pre & Post Tour Accommodation & Outback Discovery GreenChoice 57

Terms and Conditions 58-59

CONTENTSfind your ideal tour

■ Australian owned and operated – backed by over 20 years of experience and

unmatched local knowledge

■ Travelling on board brand new luxury, air-conditioned All Terrain 4WD

Mercedes Benz 30 seater vehicles

■ Great combination of accommodation styles from 5 star hotels to wilderness

lodges and tented cabins – each chosen to suit the region you’re in

■ All meals including delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners each day whilst

on tour

■ Morning and afternoon teas included on most days

■ All ‘must-see’ attractions and sights built into each itinerary

■ Innovative itineraries which highlight the best of what Australia has to offer

■ Many 2 night stays for a leisurely paced holiday and to allow you to get a feel

for the destination

■ Fully escorted by experienced and professional Outback Discovery Tour Manager

and Driver on all tours

■ All-inclusive touring with no hidden extras

■ Exclusive airport transfers

■ An Outback Discovery Kit including a backpack, bush hat, water bottle, map,

ticket wallet and torch

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EXCEPTIONALall-inclusive features

The Experience of a Lifetime Travel in Australia’s outback is enormously rewarding,

but the isolation and huge distances that make it unique can often be unforgiving for

individual travellers. Outback Discovery has planned each itinerary meticulously so

that journeying to remote areas is easy. Our holidays also represent great value for

money. You won’t need to worry about a thing, and you will return home having seen

and experienced more than you could ever achieve on your own.

Small Group Touring Our All Terrain 4WD smaller coaches have been specially

designed to carry up to only 30 guests. You will feel like you’re part of a family, not

on a group tour. At every step of the way, you will enjoy the more intimate experience

and added attention from your crew. Even better, our smaller coaches can access

places that larger coaches can’t.

Taking Care of Everything Outback Discovery guarantees that an experienced team

of a Driver and a Tour Manager will accompany you all the way on every tour. Every

Outback Discovery holiday is fully inclusive so that you get to visit all of the ‘must-

see’ sights and important attractions, rather than just driving past. We have included

all breakfasts, lunches and dinners, so you don’t have to continually dip into your own

pocket. On most days, we also include morning and afternoon tea. And you’ll stay in

a wonderful range of accommodation types, each chosen to suit the region you’re in.

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GREAT VALUEis just the beginning

Best in the Business Outback Discovery provides the best tours, luxury off-road

vehicles and all-inclusive touring, and that’s just the start of our service to you. What

really sets us apart is our guaranteed crew of two on every departure. We believe

that’s what you deserve. They are there to make everything happen as planned so

that you have the experience of a lifetime. The Driver will get you to each destination

safely and comfortably, whilst your Tour Manager co-ordinates smooth check-ins,

sightseeing, meal arrangements and much more. They have been specially recruited

by us and are highly trained.

Bringing the Outback to Life Whilst you’re on the road, your Tour Manager is working

tirelessly behind the scenes to pull everything together so you don’t need to worry

about a thing. Their down to earth and friendly personalities will show from day one

and they’ll be happy to share their inside knowledge of Australia with you. Their

dedication to the job extends to making sure everyone gets to know each other and

that firm friendships are forged by the end of your holiday.

You’re in the Best Hands Your Driver has a perfect driving record and a great sense

of responsibility, so that you’re always in safe hands. Years of experience have

resulted in lots of regional knowledge and they will often convey this to you with an

amusing tale or two. Expert commentary from both of your crew reveals their passion

for this fascinating continent. We’re sure you’ll agree it’s a great team!

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DEDICATEDexperienced & passionate crew

The Best Views in the World You will feel as though you can reach out and touch the

best views in the world through the large tinted windows aboard our fleet of luxury

All Terrain 4WD Mercedes Benz coaches. These state-of-the-art vehicles are the newest

fleet around and were specifically designed to handle the tough outback conditions.

It won’t take long to appreciate the special touches we’ve added to your 5 star Mercedes

Benz vehicles. Stretch out in the spacious legroom between you and the seat in front,

as you settle back in your plush upholstered seat. Whilst we make regular rest stops,

you’ll be pleased to know that our onboard restroom is there whenever you need it.

And in the event of extreme outdoor temperatures, our industrial-strength air-conditioning

will keep you very comfortable onboard at all times.

Some of the great features of our new fleet of Mercedes Benz vehicles include:

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DISCOVERthe outback in style

■ Spacious legroom

■ Plush upholstered reclining seats,with footrests

■ Advanced safety features

■ Fully ducted air-conditioning

■ Onboard restroom

■ Large panoramic tinted windows

■ ‘Roadcam‘ fitted to the roof of allvehicles allowing uninhibited viewing on the TV monitors of where we’re travelling at all times

■ Video, DVD player and 5 televisionmonitors for better viewing from all seats

■ State-of-the-art satellitecommunication

■ GPS Navigation

■ State-of-the-art PA system

■ Overhead luggage racks for yourpersonal belongings

■ Carpeted interior to ensure a quiet ride

After living your days to the full out in the Australian wilderness, you will be delighted to

know that the accommodation we have selected highlights the region that you’re in.

A Great Mix of Places to Stay You will experience a fantastic combination of

accommodation styles – from 5 star hotels and resorts to wilderness lodges and

deluxe tents. We have included many 2 night stays so that your holiday has a leisurely

pace and you can really get a feel for each destination.

Home Valley Station Homestead offers the ultimate Kimberley experience. Relax

and enjoy your stay at this luxury outback adventure station in brand new homestead

guesthouse rooms which have been built to retain the history and authenticity of

Home Valley. Indigenous guides will reveal an insight into the magnificent landscape

and places of spiritual significance. From gorge walks to boating, there’s an inspiring

range of things to do.

Located on the spectacular Gibb River Road, Mt Hart Wilderness Lodge is surrounded

by stunning geological features, spectacular scenery and abundant wildlife. Stylish

boutique outback accommodation is in traditional 'Kimberley-style' heritage homesteads

with wide verandahs. Relax and experience the strong sense of aboriginal and pastoral

history, whilst enjoying warm bush hospitality and gourmet country cuisine.

Lotus Bird Lodge is on the boundary of Lakefield National Park in Cape York.

Individual pole style cabins are set amongst shady eucalypts along the inner bank of

a large horseshoe shaped billabong. Each cabin has its own private balcony

overlooking the water. The main lodge has a central dining area and a long verandah

– the perfect spot for watching birds on the lagoon.

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GREAT HOSPITALITYand sweet dreams

Unique Experiences When you travel with Outback Discovery you’ll find that every day

is filled with sights and experiences that can’t be found anywhere else in the world. And

it’s not only the places that are unique, you’ll meet lots of people whose lifestyle has

turned them into true Australian characters. Their laconic way with words hides a

genuine welcome and often hilarious tales of outback living.

You’ll be won over by the owner of Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge and his passion for the

history of the settlement and exploration of this remote corner of Western Australia.

Take a walk into stunning Cathedral Gorge amid the beehive domes of the Bungle Bungle

range. Journey along the Tanami Road to peer over the rim of Wolfe Creek Crater. Learn

about Broome’s pearling past and tour a working pearl farm. High points of the NorthernTerritory are all about waterways – an awe-inspiring cruise on Katherine Gorge, spotting

crocodiles at Yellow Water and millions of birds in Kakadu’s wetlands.

Queensland’s Daintree Discovery Centre is a brilliant introduction to this World Heritage

area. Travel north to stand at the tip of Cape York. Swim in the refreshing pool beneath

Fruit Bat Falls. Take in gorgeous tropical views from the ferry to Thursday Island where

you’ll discover Torres Strait culture and WWII history. Australia’s southern states abound

with diverse wilderness experiences including the outback ghost town of Silverton, the

seals and sea lions of Kangaroo Island, a 4WD adventure in the rugged Flinders Ranges

and a guided walk around Dove Lake beneath Tasmania’s Cradle Mountain.

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EXTR AORDINARYplaces, hidden wonders

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Loyalty Rewards* If you have travelled with Outback Discovery or our sister

company, Scenic Tours, on tours of 7 days or more in the last 7 years, you are entitled

to the following savings:

Group Discounts* Generous discounts apply for groups over 9 guests.

Please contact our office for full details.

Multi Tour Discount* When 1 person books 2 Outback Discovery tours at the

same time, you will receive a discount of $150 per person on the cost of the 2nd tour.

Single Travellers* If you’re happy to share a room with another guest of the

same gender, you can avoid the single supplement cost and save up to $2,260.

Complimentary Airport Transfers* If you travel on the first and last

day of your tour or if you have purchased Outback Discovery pre or post tour

accommodation, you will be provided with complimentary return airport transfers.

Your Outback Discovery Kit Before you travel, we will send you a

comprehensive and practical touring pack including a backpack to carry essential

items, as well as a bush hat, water bottle, map, ticket wallet and torch.

1 previous tour SAVE $100 per person

2 previous tours SAVE $150 per person



*For full terms and conditions, please refer to pages 58-59.

A WEALTHof rewards & savings

DAY 1 • BROOMEOn arrival in Broome you will be met andtransferred to your hotel. Enjoy some free timebefore meeting your Outback Discovery crew andfellow travellers during your welcome dinner thisevening. Overnight Stay: Cable Beach ClubResort or Rendezvous Sanctuary Resort.

DAY 2 • BROOME – FITZROY CROSSINGThis morning we travel to Fitzroy Crossing onthe border of the vast Kimberley and the GreatSandy Desert. This afternoon relax on a cruisethrough the sanctuary that is Geikie Gorge,where 30 metre steep limestone walls laiddown over a period of 50 million years wereformed by fossilised coral reefs. If you lookcarefully, you can see the markings of vastlydifferent water levels during the dry season andthe ‘Big Wet’. Tonight we stay in lush greensurroundings at the Fitzroy River Lodge on thebanks of the Fitzroy River. Overnight Stay:Fitzroy River Lodge.

DAY 3 • FITZROY CROSSING – HALLS CREEKThe highlight of today’s touring is a foray intothe Great Sandy Desert along the infamousTanami Track where we will visit Wolfe CreekCrater, the second largest meteorite crater onearth. A short walk to the rim of the craterreveals an expansive view of the perfectly roundimpact site, which is 60 metres deep and nearlya kilometre wide. Then we continue on to HallsCreek for the night. Located on the boundary ofthe Kimberley and Tanami Desert, this outbacktown is the site of Western Australia’s firstcommercial gold discovery. Overnight Stay:Comfort Inn Kimberley Hotel.

DAY 4 • HALLS CREEK – BUNGLE BUNGLESThis morning explore the old stone buildings atthe Old Halls Creek town site and then on to the‘Great Wall of China’, a 6 metre high quartzoutcrop running along a line of hills to a rivervalley. Our vehicle turns off the Great NorthernHighway and into World Heritage listedPurnululu National Park, home to one ofWestern Australia’s most fascinatinglandmarks, the Bungle Bungle range. We headto the southern end of the Bungle Bungle rangefor a walk into majestic Cathedral Gorge, anacoustically magnificent natural amphitheatre.Two Night Stay: Bellburn Safari Camp.

DAY 5 • BUNGLE BUNGLESThis morning there is the opportunity of takingan optional helicopter flight over the magnificentBungle Bungle range (at own expense). Seeingthese incredible rock formations from the airgives a true sense of the scale of this incredibleNational Park. Today we drive to the northernend of the Bungle Bungle range for amemorable day of walks into two of the Park’sbest attractions. The first walk is into EchidnaChasm through a narrow gorge that revealssomething new at every bend – it’s like walkingthrough a huge gap in the landscape withsunlight bouncing off the flaming red hues ofthe rock walls. After lunch, we set off along acreek bed into Mini Palms. A climb throughrocky outcrops brings you to a platform atop ascenic amphitheatre for views of verdant palmtrees and the valley beyond.

DAY 6 • BUNGLE BUNGLES – KUNUNURRAShortly after rejoining the Great NorthernHighway we journey through the rugged red CarrBoyd Range. We then follow the Cockburn Rangebefore reaching the port of Wyndham. A visithere is not complete without taking in thepanoramic views of the region at the Five RiversLookout. You’ll see for miles out across theCambridge Gulf and the five rivers that flow intoit - the Ord, Pentecost, Durack, King and Forrest.Continuing to Kununurra we will follow the CarrBoyd Range. Kununurra is a vibrant town at thecentre of the fertile Ord River Irrigation Schemewhich ships huge volumes of fruit and freshproduce to Australian and overseas markets.Two Night Stay: Kununurra Country Club.

DAY 7 • KUNUNURRATo start this exciting day we depart for IvanhoeCrossing, the original crossing across the OrdRiver. Next we visit the Hoochery, the State’sonly licensed distillery where rum is producedfrom local sugar. We then drive to the rebuilthomestead of the Durack family - ArgyleDowns. After a visit to the homestead that isnow a museum, we cross the dam wall to join acruise down the spectacular Ord River and intoLake Kununurra.

DAY 8 • KUNUNURRA – HOME VALLEY STATION – KIMBERLEYToday our destination is Home Valley Station, aworking cattle station spread over 700,000 acres

of untamed Kimberley wilderness. After wearrive, enjoy a guided tour of this part of therugged Kimberley. Visit the mighty PentecostRiver, explore the vast and ancient sandstonecliffs of Bindoola Gorge and take a refreshingswim in the clear waters of the BindoolaPools. Your Aboriginal guide will share with you the history and indigenous involvment that surround Home Valley’s operations. Overnight Stay: Home Valley Station Homestead.

DAY 9 • HOME VALLEY STATION –MOUNT ELIZABETH STATIONWe leave Home Valley Station this morning andcontinue along the Gibb River Road, originallya stock route across the Kimberley and morerecently one of Australia's most challenging 4 wheel drive adventures. Our journey todaytakes us to the family-owned Mount ElizabethStation. This is a unique outback experienceand your hosts will share their deepappreciation for the surrounding country andthe knowledge gained from a lifetime spentliving and working on a cattle station in thisremote area of Australia. Overnight Stay:Mount Elizabeth Station.

DAY 10 • MOUNT ELIZABETH STATION –MOUNT HARTAs we continue our journey along the GibbRiver Road, enjoy a stop at Manning Gorge.Our drive then takes us past Silent Groveand on to spectacular Bell Gorge, foundabout 300 metres above sea level and thebeginning of a series of waterfalls thatdescend to the ocean. Then we enter theKing Leopold Ranges Conservation Park,home to Mt Hart Wilderness Lodge, set on a10 acre oasis of beautiful lush tropicalgardens and surrounded by stunninggeological features, spectacular scenery,abundant wildlife and rare flora and fauna.Two Night Stay: Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge.

DAY 11 • MOUNT HARTJoin your crew this morning on a walk to MtMatthew Gorge. Here you can experiencespectacular cascading waterfalls, explore thebeautiful swimming holes or admire thefascinating array of bird and plant life. Thisafternoon is at leisure to relax and enjoy thepeaceful surrounds of Mount Hart.

KIMBERLEY SPECTACULAR15 days

20

Wolfe Creek Meteorite CraterGibb River Road

1

FITZROYCROSSING

KUNUNURRA

Wyndham

HOME VALLEY STATION

MOUNT ELIZABETH STATION

MOUNT HARTWILDERNESS LODGE

DERBY

Five Rivers Lookout

Ivanhoe

Geikie GorgeCruise

Wolfe CreekMeteorite Crater

BROOMEHALLS CREEK

BUNGLEBUNGLES

Purnululu National Park

King Leopold Ranges National Park

Geikie Gorge National Park

Bell Gorge

Manning Gorge

Gibb R

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Ord River

Tana

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Grea

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Lake Argyle

WindjanaGorge

Echidna Chasm

Cathedral Gorge

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WESTERN AUSTRALIA

Tunnel CreekNational Park

Kimberley

DAY 12 • MOUNT HART – DERBYThis morning it’s back to the Gibb River Roadtowards Tunnel Creek where you will enjoy awalk into Western Australia’s oldest cavesystem. From here it’s on to Windjana Gorgewhere a large population of Johnston freshwater crocodiles inhabit the water hole. Wecontinue to Derby, the main base for the RoyalFlying Doctor Service in the Kimberley. Beforearriving at our hotel we stop at the town’s jettybuilt to handle huge 10 metre tidal flows.Overnight Stay: King Sound Resort.

DAY 13 • DERBY – BROOMEOn the road to Broome this morning, we will visitthe famous Boab Prison Tree and Myall’s Bore,where stockmen would take turns in wateringtheir stock before loading them onto ships forexport. During a guided tour and cruise at WillieCreek Pearl Farm, you will discover how the rareand beautiful Australian South Sea Pearl isproduced. Two Night Stay: Cable Beach ClubResort or Rendezvous Sanctuary Resort.

DAY 14 • BROOMEThis morning enjoy a tour of the sights ofBroome. Stop at Gantheaume Point for a greatphoto opportunity looking back across CableBeach. We then visit the Broome Jetty and theJapanese Cemetery, a testament to thedangerous early days of the pearling industryas over 900 divers are buried here. View theOld Courthouse before your tour at the PearlLuggers’ Museum where you will learn of theperils of the deep and what made the pearldivers life so hazardous. This afternoon,wander through the old buildings in ChinaTown where many indigenous art galleries andpearl showrooms can be found. There is alsothe opportunity of taking an optional scenicflight over the picturesque BuccaneerArchipelago (at own expense). This evening’sdinner is time to relive many memorableholiday moments and say farewell to your crewand fellow travellers.

DAY 15 • BROOMEThis morning after breakfast you will betransferred to the airport for your homeboundflight.

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Wyndham

Nights accommodationLand ContentUnsealed Road

1

May 04, 18Jun 01, 16Jul 01, 15, 29Aug 12, 26, 29Sep 09, 23

May 03, 17, 31Jun 15, 30Jul 14, 28Aug 11, 25, 28Sep 08, 22

DEPARTURE DATES & TOUR PRICES

15 Day Tour Tour Code: OBBBroome to Broome $6,150Single Supplement $1,400

All prices are per person, twin share in AUD. Fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees, accommodation and meals asspecified. Additional activities are at own expense and unless otherwise stated must be booked on tour. Tour itinerary andpricing valid from 01 April 2009 to 31 March 2010. Enquire for itinerary and pricing that fall outside this period. Flights are notincluded. For full terms and conditions, please see pages 58-59.

2009 2010

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS• Stay 3 nights at luxurious Cable Beach Club Resort or Rendezvous Sanctuary Resort

in Broome • Cruise through the amazing Geikie Gorge • Stay 2 nights in the World Heritage listed Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) National Park at

the Bellburn Safari Camp • Walk into Cathedral Gorge, a natural amphitheatre and Echidna Chasm in the

Bungle Bungles • Panoramic views of the surrounding area at Five Rivers Lookout • Cruise down the spectacular Ord River and into Lake Kununurra • Overnight stay in the rugged Kimberley at Home Valley Station Homestead, a working

cattle station• Travel along the Gibb River Road • Enjoy the unique outback experience in the heart of the Kimberley with a 2 night stay at

Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge• Explore King Leopold Ranges Conservation Park, home to many breathtakingly

beautiful gorges• Visit spectacular Windjana Gorge, home to Johnston fresh water crocodiles • Broome sightseeing tour including a guided tour at Willie Creek Pearl Farm and at the

Pearl Luggers’ Museum

ACCOMMODATIONWe have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles which make the most of what eachregion has to offer - from 3.5 to 5 star hotels to wilderness lodges and tented cabins. Someof the remote outback areas we have chosen are more about being there and theexperiences and memories you can take with you rather than the accommodation itself. • Day 4 & 5 – your 2 night stay at Bellburn Safari Camp is in permanently tented safari

cabins, comfortable beds and shared facilities • Day 9 – your overnight stay at Mount Elizabeth Station has shared facilities • Day 10 & 11 – your 2 night stay at Mount Hart Wilderness Lodge has shared facilities

ON TOUR ACTIVITIESA number of great walks are included on various days throughout this tour. The followingwalks are considered moderate to difficult and a good level of fitness will especially berequired for these walks:• Tunnel Creek • Cathedral Gorge • Echidna Chasm • Mini Palms • Bindoola Gorge • Bell Gorge

DAY 1 • BROOMEOn arrival in Broome you will be met andtransferred to your hotel. Enjoy some free timebefore meeting your Outback Discovery crew andfellow travellers during your welcome dinner thisevening. Two Night Stay: Cable Beach ClubResort or Rendezvous Sanctuary Resort.

DAY 2 • BROOMEThis morning enjoy a tour of the sights ofBroome. Stop at Gantheaume Point for a greatphoto opportunity looking back across CableBeach. We then stop at the Broome Jettybefore we visit the Japanese Cemetery, atestament to the dangerous early days of thepearling industry as over 900 divers are buriedhere. View the Old Courthouse and enjoy a tourat the Pearl Luggers’ Museum where you willlearn of the perils of the deep and what madethe pearl divers life so hazardous. Thisafternoon, wander through the old buildings inChina Town where many indigenous artgalleries and pearl showrooms can be found.There is also the opportunity of taking anoptional scenic flight over the picturesqueBuccaneer Archipelago (at own expense, mustbe pre-booked^).

DAY 3 • BROOME – DERBYAfter checking out of our hotel, we travel toWillie Creek Pearl Farm where you willdiscover, during a guided tour and cruise, howthe rare and beautiful Australian South SeaPearl is produced. We then continue to Derby,stopping en-route at the famous Boab PrisonTree that for many years was used by police asa convenient lock-up for prisoners. Overnight Stay: King Sound Resort.

DAY 4 • DERBY – FITZROY CROSSINGThis morning we travel along the Gibb RiverRoad to Windjana Gorge where a largepopulation of Johnston fresh water crocodilesinhabit the water hole. From here it’s on toTunnel Creek for a guided walk into WesternAustralia’s oldest cave system. We then take acruise along magnificent Geikie Gorge. Thissanctuary was formed by layers of fossilisedcoral reefs that formed 30 metre steeplimestone walls over a period of 50 millionyears. Overnight Stay: Fitzroy River Lodge.

DAY 5 • FITZROY CROSSING – BUNGLE BUNGLESOur journey this morning takes us into WorldHeritage listed Purnululu National Park, hometo one of Western Australia’s most fascinatinglandmarks, the Bungle Bungle range. We’ll headto the southern end of the Park for a walk intomagnificent Cathedral Gorge. Two Night Stay:Bellburn Safari Camp.

DAY 6 • BUNGLE BUNGLESThis morning there is the opportunity oftaking an optional helicopter flight over themagnificent Bungle Bungle range (at ownexpense). Today we drive to the northernend of the Bungle Bungle range for amemorable day of walks into two of thePark’s best attractions. The first walk is intoEchidna Chasm through a narrow gorge thatreveals something new at every bend – it’slike walking through a huge gap in thelandscape with sunlight bouncing off theflaming red hues of the rock walls. Afterlunch we set off along a creek bed into MiniPalms. A climb through rocky outcropsbrings you to a platform atop a scenicamphitheatre for views of verdant palmtrees and the valley beyond.

DAY 7 • BUNGLE BUNGLES – HOME VALLEY STATION – KIMBERLEYLeaving Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) NationalPark, we make our way through the ruggedlandscape of the Carr Boyd Range beforearriving at Home Valley Station, a workingcattle station spread over 700,000 acres ofuntamed Kimberley wilderness. Two NightStay: Home Valley Station Homestead.

DAY 8 • HOME VALLEY STATION –KIMBERLEYThis morning enjoy a guided tour of this part of the rugged Kimberley. Visit the mightyPentecost River, explore the vast and ancientsandstone cliffs of Bindoola Gorge and take arefreshing swim in the clear waters of theBindoola Pools. Your Aboriginal guide willshare with you the history and indigenousinvolvment that surround Home Valley’soperations. This afternoon is at your leisure to continue exploring the surrounds of HomeValley Station.

DAY 9 • HOME VALLEY STATION –KUNUNURRAWe reboard our coach this morning to followthe Cockburn Range before reaching the portof Wyndham. A visit here is not completewithout taking in the panoramic views of theregion at the Five Rivers Lookout. You will seefor miles out across the Cambridge Gulf andthe five rivers that flow into it - the Ord,Pentecost, Durack, King and Forrest.Continuing to Kununurra we will follow theCarr Boyd Range then cross the diversion damthat was built to stem the waters of the OrdRiver. Kununurra is a vibrant town at the centreof the fertile Ord River Irrigation Scheme.Before our orientation tour of Kununurra, we’llstop at the Zebra Rock Gallery where you willsee works carved by local residents from thepatterned stone unique to the region. Two Night Stay: Kununurra Country Club.

DAY 10 • KUNUNURRATo start this exciting day we visit the Hoochery,the State’s only licensed distillery where rum isproduced from local sugar. We then drive to therebuilt homestead of the Durack family - ArgyleDowns. After a visit to the homestead that isnow a museum, we cross the dam wall to join acruise down the spectacular Ord River and intoLake Kununurra.

DAY 11 • KUNUNURRA – KATHERINEToday we leave the Kimberley and WesternAustralia and enter the Northern Territory. Wewill pass by Bullo River Station, made famousby top-selling author Sara Henderson whosebooks vividly described station life. On to themighty escarpment country in the Victoria Riverregion, one of the most picturesque areas in theNorthern Territory. We’ll travel through TimberCreek and near the Victoria River Crossing, we’llpass by the Victoria River Downs Station whichwas once the largest land holding on earth. TheVictoria River, known by locals as ‘The Vic’, was akey influence on Aboriginal heritage and today isa lifeline for pastoral properties. Overnight Stay:All Seasons Katherine.

DAY 12 • KATHERINE – JABIRUStart the day with a cruise through stunningKatherine Gorge. At the Nitmiluk Visitors’ Centreyou will see informative displays outlining the

KIMBERLEY & TOP END EXPLORER15 days Broome to Darwin

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Geikie Gorge CruiseCrocodiles Geikie Gorge Cruise

Great Sandy Desert

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geology, landscape and Aboriginal history of thenational park. At spectacular Edith Falls we’lltake a swim in the large pandanus fringedwaterhole at the base of the falls. We then driveon to Kakadu National Park, 20,000 squarekilometres of savannah woodland, ancientescarpments and tropical wilderness inhabited bya multitude of flora and fauna. Depending on timeand availability you might choose to take a scenicflight over the wetlands of Kakadu (at ownexpense). Overnight Stay: Gagudju CrocodileHoliday Inn.

DAY 13 • JABIRU – DARWIN This morning enjoy a cruise on the Yellow WatersBillabong where it is possible to see estuarinecrocodiles in their natural habitat. One third ofAustralia's bird species is represented in KakaduNational Park with at least 60 species found inthese wetlands. Then it’s on to Ubirr to viewAboriginal rock art galleries that date backthousands of years. After a climb up onto theescarpment, you will be rewarded withpanoramic views you will never forget. In theheart of crocodile, buffalo and barramundicountry, we will stop briefly at the quirky BarkHut Inn. Our journey then takes us to the laid-back tropical city of Darwin. Two Night Stay:Crowne Plaza Hotel.

DAY 14 • DARWIN – LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK – DARWINWe’ll spend our last touring day in LitchfieldNational Park where numerous waterfallscascade from a sandstone plateau called the‘Tabletop Range’. View intriguing magnetictermite mounds. We then travel to theextraordinarily beautiful Wangi Falls for thechance to swim in the pool at the base of thefalls, which is one of the Top End’s most popularswimming spots. After lunch we’ll spend theafternoon at the Territory Wildlife Park where youcan get close to the birdlife in the dome aviary orwalk through the aquarium tunnel asbarramundi and turtles swim overhead. Ourdinner this evening is time to say farewell to yourcrew and fellow travellers.

DAY 15 • DARWINThis morning after breakfast you will betransferred to the airport for your homeboundflight.

23

Five Rivers Lookout, Wyndham


1

May 10Jun 08Jul 07, 29Aug 04Sep 01

May 09Jun 07Jul 06, 28Aug 03, 31


15 Day Tour Tour Code: OBDBroome to Darwin $6,175Single Supplement $1,670

All prices are per person, twin share in AUD. Fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees, accommodation and meals as specified.Additional activities are at own expense and unless otherwise stated must be booked on tour. Tour itinerary and pricing valid from 01April 2009 to 31 March 2010. Enquire for itinerary and pricing that fall outside this period. ^ The Buccaneer Archipelago optional flightmust be booked at the time of booking this tour. Flights are not included. For full terms and conditions, please see pages 58-59.

2009 2010

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS• Stay 2 nights at luxurious Cable Beach Club Resort or Rendezvous Sanctuary Resort

in Broome • Broome sightseeing tour including a guided tour at Willie Creek Pearl Farm and at the

Pearl Luggers’ Museum • Visit spectacular Windjana Gorge, home to Johnston fresh water crocodiles • Walk into Tunnel Creek, Western Australia’s oldest cave system • Cruise through the amazing Geikie Gorge • Stay 2 nights in the World Heritage listed Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) National Park at

the Bellburn Safari Camp • Walk into the majestic Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm in the Bungle Bungle range • 2 night stay in the rugged Kimberley at Home Valley Station Homestead, a working

cattle station• Panoramic views of the surrounding area at Five Rivers Lookout • Cruise down the spectacular Ord River and into Lake Kununurra • Guided cruise through stunning Katherine Gorge • Enjoy a swim in the pandanus fringed waterhole at spectacular Edith Falls • Explore World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park • Visit beautiful Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park • 2 night stay at the 5 star Crowne Plaza Hotel in Darwin

ACCOMMODATIONWe have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles which make the most of what eachregion has to offer - from 3.5 to 5 star hotels to wilderness lodges and tented cabins.Some of the remote outback areas we have chosen are more about being there and theexperiences and memories you can take with you rather than the accommodation itself. • Day 5 & 6 – your 2 night stay at Bellburn Safari Camp is in permanently tented safaricabins, comfortable beds and shared facilities

ON TOUR ACTIVITIESA number of great walks are included on various days throughout this tour. The followingwalks are considered moderate to difficult and a good level of fitness will especially berequired for these walks:• Tunnel Creek • Cathedral Gorge • Echidna Chasm • Mini Palms • Bindoola Gorge

DAY 1 • DARWINOn arrival in Darwin you will be met andtransferred to your hotel. Enjoy some freetime before meeting your Outback Discoverycrew and fellow travellers during yourwelcome dinner this evening. Two Night Stay:Crowne Plaza Hotel.

DAY 2 • DARWIN – LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK – DARWINWe’ll spend our first touring day in LitchfieldNational Park where numerous waterfallscascade from a sandstone plateau called theTabletop Range. View intriguing magnetictermite mounds. We then travel to the beautifulWangi Falls for the chance to swim in the pool atthe base of the falls. After lunch we’ll spend theafternoon at the Territory Wildlife Park whereyou can get close to the birdlife in the domeaviary or walk through the aquarium tunnel asbarramundi and turtles swim overhead.

DAY 3 • DARWIN – JABIRUToday we make our way out along the ArnhemHighway and stop briefly at the quirky Bark HutInn in the heart of crocodile, buffalo andbarramundi country. We drive into KakaduNational Park, 20,000 square kilometres ofsavannah woodland, ancient escarpments andtropical wilderness inhabited by a multitude offlora and fauna. Then it’s on to Ubirr to viewAboriginal rock art galleries that date backthousands of years. After a climb up onto theescarpment, you will be rewarded by panoramicviews of scenery you will never forget.Depending on time and availability you mightchoose to take a scenic flight over the wetlandsof Kakadu (at own expense). Overnight Stay:Gagudju Crocodile Holiday Inn.

DAY 4 • JABIRU – KATHERINEThis morning enjoy a cruise on the YellowWaters Billabong where it’s possible to seeestuarine crocodiles in their natural habitat.One third of Australia's bird species isrepresented in Kakadu National Park with atleast 60 species found in these wetlands. Ourroute south takes us through the old goldmining town of Pine Creek that was establishedafter a brief gold rush period during the 1870’s.At Edith Falls we’ll stop for a swim in the largepandanus fringed waterhole at the base of thefalls. Overnight Stay: All Seasons Katherine.

DAY 5 • KATHERINE – KUNUNURRA Start the day with a cruise through stunningKatherine Gorge which takes in two of thirteengorges carved through ancient sandstone by theKatherine River. At the Nitmiluk Visitors’ Centreyou will see informative displays outlining thegeology, landscape and Aboriginal history of thenational park. We’ll pass by the Victoria RiverDowns Station which was once the largest landholding on earth. Victoria River crossing is ourlunch stop. The river is known by locals as ‘TheVic’ and was a key influence on Aboriginalheritage and today is a lifeline for pastoralproperties. We will pass by Bullo River Station,made famous by top-selling author SaraHenderson whose books vividly describedstation life. We leave the Northern Territory andenter Western Australia and the Kimberleywhere our hotel at Kununurra awaits. Two Night Stay: Kununurra Country Club.

DAY 6 • KUNUNURRAKununurra is a vibrant town at the centre of thefertile Ord River Irrigation Scheme which shipshuge volumes of fruit and fresh produce toAustralian and overseas markets. To start thisexciting day we visit the Hoochery, the State’sonly licensed distillery where rum is producedfrom local sugar. We then drive to the rebuilthomestead of the Durack family - ArgyleDowns. After a visit to the homestead that isnow a museum, we cross the dam wall to join acruise down the spectacular Ord River and intoLake Kununurra.

DAY 7 • KUNUNURRA – HOME VALLEY STATION – KIMBERLEYOn our way out of Kununurra we will stop atZebra Rock Gallery to see works carved by localresidents from the patterned stone unique to theregion. We reboard our coach to follow theCockburn Range before reaching the port ofWyndham. A visit here is not complete withouttaking in the panoramic views of the region at theFive Rivers Lookout. You will see for miles outacross the Cambridge Gulf and the five rivers thatflow into it - the Ord, Pentecost, Durack, King andForrest. We’ll then backtrack to join the famousGibb River Road which takes us to Home ValleyStation, a working cattle station spread over700,000 acres of untamed Kimberley wilderness.Two Night Stay: Home Valley Station Homestead.

DAY 8 • HOME VALLEY STATION –KIMBERLEYThis morning enjoy a guided tour of this part ofthe rugged Kimberley. Visit the mightyPentecost River, explore the vast and ancientsandstone cliffs of Bindoola Gorge and take arefreshing swim in the clear waters of theBindoola Pools. Your Aboriginal guide will sharewith you the history and indigenous involvmentthat surround Home Valley’s operations. Thisafternoon is at your leisure to continue exploringthe surrounds of Home Valley Station.

DAY 9 • HOME VALLEY STATION – BUNGLE BUNGLESWe travel south along the Great NorthernHighway as we follow the rugged red Carr BoydRange before our vehicle turns off the highwayand into World Heritage listed PurnululuNational Park, home to one of WesternAustralia’s most fascinating landmarks, theBungle Bungle range. We will then head to thesouthern end of the Park for a walk intoCathedral Gorge, an acoustically magnificentnatural amphitheatre. Two Night Stay:Bellburn Safari Camp.

DAY 10 • BUNGLE BUNGLESThis morning there is the opportunity of takingan optional helicopter flight over the magnificentBungle Bungle range (at own expense). Today wedrive to the northern end of the Bungle Bunglerange for a memorable day of walks into two ofthe Park’s best attractions. The first walk is intoEchidna Chasm through a narrow gorge thatreveals something new at every bend – it’s likewalking through a huge gap in the landscapewith sunlight bouncing off the flaming red huesof the rock walls. After lunch we set off along acreek bed into Mini Palms. A climb through rockyoutcrops brings you to a platform atop a scenicamphitheatre for views of verdant palm trees andthe valley beyond.

DAY 11 • BUNGLE BUNGLES – FITZROY CROSSINGWe leave Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) NationalPark this morning and rejoin the GreatNorthern Highway to Halls Creek on theboundary of the Kimberley and Tanami Desert.Halls Creek is a thriving service centre forpastoralists, Aboriginal communities andmining camps. Our destination this afternoon is

KIMBERLEY & TOP END EXPLORER15 days Darwin to Broome

24

The Bungle Bungles, Purnululu National ParkWillie Creek Pearl Farm

Great Sandy Desert

DERBY

Geikie GorgeCruiseBROOME

BUNGLE BUNGLESPurnululu National Park

Ord River

Victoria River

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WindjanaGorge Echidna Chasm

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the Fitzroy River Lodge located on the banks ofone of the highest volume rivers on earth.Overnight Stay: Fitzroy River Lodge.

DAY 12 • FITZROY CROSSING – DERBYThis morning we’ll take a cruise alongmagnificent Geikie Gorge. From here it’s on toTunnel Creek for a guided walk into WesternAustralia’s oldest cave system, made famous in1897 as a hideout for the Aboriginal leaderJandamarra. We’ll then continue to WindjanaGorge where a large population of Johnstonfresh water crocodiles inhabit the water hole.Before arriving at our hotel in Derby, we stop atthe town’s jetty, built to handle huge 10 metretidal flows. Overnight Stay: King Sound Resort.

DAY 13 • DERBY – BROOMEWe leave Derby for Broome this morning. On ourway out of town we will visit the famous BoabPrison Tree that for many years was used bypolice as a convenient lock-up for prisoners. Wethen travel to Willie Creek Pearl Farm where youwill discover, during a guided tour and cruise,how the rare and beautiful Australian South SeaPearl is produced. Two Night Stay: Cable BeachClub Resort or Rendezvous Sanctuary Resort.

DAY 14 • BROOMEThis morning enjoy a tour of the sights ofBroome. Stop at Gantheaume Point for a greatphoto opportunity looking back across CableBeach. We then stop at the Broome Jetty beforewe visit the Japanese Cemetery, a testament tothe dangerous early days of the pearlingindustry as over 900 divers are buried here.View the Old Courthouse and enjoy a tour at thePearl Luggers’ Museum where you will learn ofthe perils of the deep and what made the pearldivers life so hazardous. This afternoon, wanderthrough the old buildings in China Town wheremany indigenous art galleries and pearlshowrooms can be found. There is also theopportunity of taking an optional scenic flightover the picturesque Buccaneer Archipelago (atown expense). This evening’s dinner is time torelive many memorable holiday moments andsay farewell to your crew and fellow travellers.


25

Waterlilies


1

Apr 25May 23Jun 22Jul 15, 21Aug 16,18

Apr 24May 22Jun 21Jul 14, 20Aug 15, 17


15 Day Tour Tour Code: ODBDarwin to Broome $6,175Single Supplement $1,670

All prices are per person, twin share in AUD. Fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees, accommodation and meals asspecified. Additional activities are at own expense and unless otherwise stated must be booked on tour. Tour itinerary and pricingvalid from 01 April 2009 to 31 March 2010. Enquire for itinerary and pricing that fall outside this period. Flights are not included.For full terms and conditions, please see pages 58-59.

2009 2010

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS• 2 night stay at the 5 star Crowne Plaza Hotel in Darwin • Visit beautiful Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park • Explore World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park • Enjoy a swim in the pandanus fringed waterhole at spectacular Edith Falls • Guided cruise through stunning Katherine Gorge • Cruise down the spectacular Ord River and into Lake Kununurra • Panoramic views of the surrounding area at Five Rivers Lookout • 2 night stay in the rugged Kimberley at Home Valley Station Homestead, a working

cattle station• Stay 2 nights in the World Heritage listed Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) National Park at

the Bellburn Safari Camp • Walk into the majestic Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm in the Bungle Bungles • Cruise through the amazing Geikie Gorge • Walk into Tunnel Creek, Western Australia’s oldest cave system • Visit spectacular Windjana Gorge, home to Johnston fresh water crocodiles • Stay 2 nights at luxurious Cable Beach Club Resort or Rendezvous Sanctuary

Resort in Broome • Broome sightseeing tour including a guided tour at Willie Creek Pearl Farm and at the

Pearl Luggers’ Museum

ACCOMMODATIONWe have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles which make the most of what eachregion has to offer - from 3.5 to 5 star hotels to wilderness lodges and tented cabins.Some of the remote outback areas we have chosen are more about being there and theexperiences and memories you can take with you rather than the accommodation itself. • Day 9 & 10 – your 2 night stay at Bellburn Safari Camp is in permanently tented safari

cabins, comfortable beds and shared facilities

ON TOUR ACTIVITIESA number of great walks are included on various days throughout this tour. The followingwalks are considered moderate to difficult and a good level of fitness will especially berequired for these walks:• Bindoola Gorge • Cathedral Gorge • Echidna Chasm • Mini Palms • Tunnel Creek

DAY 1 • CAIRNSOn arrival at Cairns airport you will be metand transferred to your hotel. Enjoy somefree time exploring Cairns, browsing in theshops along the esplanade or relaxing by thepool. This evening meet your OutbackDiscovery crew and get together with fellowtravellers during your welcome dinner.Overnight Stay: Cairns Hilton Hotel.

DAY 2 • CAIRNS – UNDARAIt’s the first day of our great adventure acrossthe Savannah Way, a network of roadsstretching over 4,000 kilometres joiningCairns in Queensland with Broome inWestern Australia. We farewell Cairns anddrive through the rainforests of the GreatDividing Range to the tablelands farmingtown of Atherton. This is the start of theoutback and we drive to Undara on theeastern edge of the ruggedly beautiful GulfSavannah region, arriving in the afternoon.You’ll take a guided tour of the Undara LavaTubes formed some 190,000 years ago whena volcano erupted, its molten lava flowingdown a dry riverbed. As the top layer quicklycooled and crusted, the fiery magma belowcontinued to flow through the tubes taking itfurther and further from the volcano. Afterdinner tonight, have some fun around thecampfire swapping tales. Overnight Stay:Undara Lava Lodge, in unique speciallyrestored railway carriages.

DAY 3 • UNDARA – NORMANTONStart the day with a true Aussie breakfastsurrounded by birds and the bush beforeleaving Undara and driving west toGeorgetown. At the Terrestrial Centre you willview the multi award–winning Ted ElliottMineral Collection. This collection, which isall the work of one man, contains over 4,500mineral specimens in a myriad of fascinatingcolours and shapes from the region andthroughout the world. We’ll stop in thehistoric village of Croydon, which was once abooming gold town. We’ll then travel to thegulf town of Karumba, where a huge prawntrawling fleet is based. It was near Karumbathat the Bourke and Wills expedition reachedthe top end of Australia. Continue on to

Normanton, our destination for the evening.Overnight Stay: Gulfland Motel.

DAY 4 • NORMANTON – ADEL’S GROVEThis morning we board the Gulflander Trainfor a ride back in time. This historic little traintakes you on a journey with a differencethrough the tough and inhospitable GulfCountry to Critters Camp. Your driver iswaiting to take you to the Leichhardt River,which was named after the great explorerwho went missing without a trace. We’ll passthrough the historic settlements ofBurketown and Gregory Downs and then on toAdel’s Grove for two nights at the gateway toLawn Hill National Park. Two Night Stay:Adel’s Grove.

DAY 5 • ADEL’S GROVEThis morning we travel a short distance to theRiversleigh Fossil Site. This is one of the fewfossil sites around the world that has beenlisted as a World Heritage. We then continueour adventure in Lawn Hill National Parkwhere you will take guided walks with yourcrew, swim in the spring-fed waters of thegorge or explore aboard a canoe. We’ll returnto Adel’s Grove in time to relax with friendsbefore dinner.

DAY 6 • ADEL’S GROVE – MOUNT ISAToday we travel to the Burke and WillsRoadhouse before turning south to Cloncurrywhere we will visit John Flynn Place Museum.The exhibits here trace the inspirational storyof the origins of the Royal Flying DoctorService. Our final destination today is MountIsa, known as the ‘Oasis of the Outback’,nestled among the ochre-red Selwyn Rangeson the banks of the Leichhardt River. We’llenjoy a cool drink at the lookout as we viewthe town and mine below. Overnight Stay: All Seasons Verona.

DAY 7 • MOUNT ISA – BARKLY HOMESTEADWe’ll spend some time this morning at theOutback at Isa complex, incorporating theHard Times Mine, Sir James Foots Building,Outback Park and Visitor Information Centre.The award-winning Riversleigh Fossil Centreis located within the centre and is a greatplace to visit to get a clear explanation of whatyou saw at the Riversleigh Fossil Site near

Lawn Hill. Before departing Mount Isa, we willtake a drive around the town and pass thehuge Mount Isa Mine, the world's largestsingle producer of copper, silver, lead andzinc. The Barkly Highway takes us west toCamooweal and the Northern Territory border.The road is now almost perfectly straight andleads us to our overnight destination.Overnight Stay: Barkly Homestead.

DAY 8 • BARKLY HOMESTEAD – DALY WATERSWe drive north along the Tablelands Highwaypassing through the Northern Territory’slargest pastoral lease, Brunette DownsCattle Station. As we cross the vast plains ofMitchell and Flinders grass you will get atrue understanding of the long distancesbetween settlements in this remote region.We’ll stop at Cape Crawford, the onlyroadhouse for hundreds of kilometres. Thenext stop will be well received as it is at thecolourful Daly Waters Pub. Overnight Stay: Daly Waters Pub.

DAY 9 • DALY WATERS – KATHERINEToday our route takes us along the StuartHighway towards Mataranka and Katherine.On the way we will call into the ElseyCemetery to see the grave of Aeneas Gunnand several other characters from ‘We of theNever Never’ written by Jeannie Gunn. AtMataranka’s Hot Springs take a dip in thewarm thermal pools which are fed by waterthat originates in Papua New Guinea. Thisafternoon we take a leisurely cruise throughKatherine Gorge. The cruise takes intwo of thirteen gorges carved through

ancient sandstone by the Katherine River. At the Nitmiluk Visitors’ Centre you will seeinformative displays outlining the geology,landscape and Aboriginal history of thenational park. Overnight Stay: All SeasonsKatherine.

DAY 10 • KATHERINE – JABIRUSpectacular Edith Falls is our first stop todaywhere you can swim in the large pandanusfringed waterhole at the base of the falls.We’ll stop at Pine Creek, the NorthernTerritory’s first gold mining town. We drive onto Kakadu National Park, 20,000 squarekilometres of savannah woodland, ancient

GULF SAVANNAH WAY25 days Cairns to Broome

26

Ord River CruiseSturt Desert Pea

escarpments and tropical wildernessinhabited by a multitude of flora and fauna.This afternoon enjoy a cruise on the YellowWaters Billabong where it’s possible to seeestuarine crocodiles in their natural habitat.One third of Australia's bird species isrepresented in Kakadu National Park, with atleast 60 species found in these wetlands.Whistling ducks, jabiru, brolga and magpiegeese are the most abundant. Overnight Stay:Gagudju Crocodile Holiday Inn.

DAY 11 • JABIRU – DARWINDepending on time and availability, you might choose to take a scenic flight over thewetlands of Kakadu (at own expense).Alternatively a visit to the excellent BowaliVisitors’ Centre will provide you with plenty ofinformation about this complex region. Thenit’s on to Ubirr to view Aboriginal rock artgalleries that date back thousands of years.After a climb up onto the escarpment you willbe rewarded by panoramic views of sceneryyou will never forget. In the heart of crocodile,buffalo and barramundi country, we will stopbriefly at the quirky Bark Hut Inn. Our journeythen takes us to the laid-back tropical city ofDarwin. Three Night Stay: Crowne Plaza Hotel.

DAY 12 • DARWIN – LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK – DARWINWe will spend today touring in LitchfieldNational Park where numerous waterfallscascade from a sandstone plateau called theTabletop Range. View intriguing magnetictermite mounds. We then travel to theextraordinarily beautiful Wangi Falls for thechance to swim in the pool at the base of thefalls, which is one of the Top End’s mostpopular swimming spots. After lunch we’llspend the afternoon at the Territory WildlifePark where you can get close to the birdlifein the dome aviary or walk through theaquarium tunnel as barramundi and turtlesswim overhead. The majority of fauna foundin the Top End is represented in this Parkwhich covers 400 hectares.

DAY 13 • DARWINYou have a day of leisure in Darwin today toexplore on your own. The harbour foreshorearea is a great place to discover the city’smaritime links, with museums and markets.

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DAY 14 • DARWIN – KATHERINEAfter breakfast travel to the small settlementtown of Adelaide River which was the base for30,000 Australian and American soldiers duringWorld War II. Visit the war cemetery for thehundreds of servicemen and civilians who werekilled by air raids in Darwin. Continue on viaPine Creek to Katherine where we will visit theKatherine Outback Heritage Museum.Originally constructed as an air terminal for theregion during WWII, it now contains an eclecticcollection of artefacts, photographs, maps andpioneer memorabilia in an informativemuseum. This evening we head out to a nearbystock camp to dine on traditional bush tuckerunder the clear star studded sky. After adelicious meal, sit back and enjoy thehumorous yarns and stories of the local area.Overnight Stay: All Seasons Katherine.

DAY 15 • KATHERINE – KUNUNURRAWe’ll pass by the Victoria River Downs Stationwhich was once the largest land holding onearth. Victoria River crossing is our lunchstop. The river is known by locals as ‘The Vic’

and was a key influence on Aboriginalheritage and today is a lifeline for pastoralproperties. We’ll travel through Timber Creek,named in 1855 when the explorer AugustusGregory used timber from the banks of thecreek to repair his expedition’s boat. We willpass by Bullo River Station, made famous bytop-selling author Sara Henderson whosebooks vividly described station life. We leavethe Northern Territory and enter WesternAustralia and the Kimberley. Two Night Stay:Kununurra Lakeside Resort.

DAY 16 • KUNUNURRAKununurra is a vibrant town at the centre ofthe fertile Ord River Irrigation Scheme whichships huge volumes of fruit and fresh produceto Australian and overseas markets. To startthis exciting day we depart for IvanhoeCrossing, the original crossing across the OrdRiver. Next we visit the Hoochery, the State’sonly licensed distillery where rum isproduced from local sugar. We then drive tothe rebuilt homestead of the Durack family -Argyle Downs. After a visit to the homestead

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Nights accommodationLand ContentUnsealed RoadRail

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Lawn Hill National Park

28

Boab Prison Tree, DerbyUndara Lava Lodge

that is now a museum, we cross the dam wallto join a cruise down the spectacular OrdRiver and into Lake Kununurra.

DAY 17 • KUNUNURRA – HOME VALLEY STATION – KIMBERLEYOn our way out of Kununurra we’ll stop atZebra Rock Gallery to see works carved bylocal residents from the patterned stoneunique to the region. We reboard our coachto follow the Cockburn Range beforereaching the Cambridge Gulf and the port ofWyndham. A visit here is not completewithout taking in the panoramic views of theregion at the Five Rivers Lookout. You’ll seefor miles out across the Cambridge Gulf andthe five rivers that flow into it - the Ord,Pentecost, Durack, King and Forrest. We’llhave lunch before backtracking to join thefamous Gibb River Road which takes us toHome Valley Station, a working cattle stationspread over 700,000 acres of untamedKimberley wilderness. Two Night Stay:Home Valley Station Homestead.

DAY 18 • HOME VALLEY STATION –KIMBERLEYThis morning enjoy a guided tour of this partof the rugged Kimberley. Visit the mightyPentecost River, explore the vast and ancientsandstone cliffs of Bindoola Gorge and take arefreshing swim in the clear waters of theBindoola Pools. Your Aboriginal guide willshare with you the history and indigenousinvolvment that surround Home Valley’soperations. This afternoon is at your leisure tocontinue exploring the surrounds of HomeValley Station.

DAY 19 • HOME VALLEY STATION –BUNGLE BUNGLESWe travel south along the Great NorthernHighway as we follow the rugged red CarrBoyd Range before our vehicle turns off thehighway and into the World Heritage listedPurnululu National Park, home to one ofWestern Australia’s most fascinatinglandmarks, the Bungle Bungle range. We willthen head to the southern end of the Park fora walk into Cathedral Gorge, an acousticallymagnificent natural amphitheatre. Two Night Stay: Bellburn Safari Camp.

DAY 20 • BUNGLE BUNGLESThis morning there is the opportunity oftaking an optional helicopter flight over themagnificent Bungle Bungle range (at ownexpense). Seeing these incredible rockformations from the air gives a true sense ofthe scale of this incredible national park.Today, we drive to the northern end of theBungle Bungle range for a memorable day ofwalks into two of the Park’s best attractions.The first walk is into Echidna Chasm througha narrow gorge that reveals something new atevery bend – it’s like walking through a hugegap in the landscape with sunlight bouncingoff the flaming red hues of the rock walls.After lunch, we set off along a creek bed intoMini Palms. A climb through rocky outcropsbrings you to a platform atop a scenicamphitheatre for views of verdant palm treesand the valley beyond.

DAY 21 • BUNGLE BUNGLES – FITZROY CROSSINGWe leave Purnululu National Park thismorning and rejoin the Great NorthernHighway to Halls Creek on the boundary ofthe Kimberley and Tanami Desert. HallsCreek is a thriving service centre forpastoralists, Aboriginal communities andmining camps. Our destination this afternoonis the Fitzroy River Lodge located on thebanks of one of the highest volume rivers onearth. Overnight Stay: Fitzroy River Lodge.

DAY 22 • FITZROY CROSSING – DERBYThis morning we’ll take a cruise alongmagnificent Geikie Gorge. This sanctuary wasformed by layers of fossilised coral reefs thatformed 30 metre steep limestone walls over aperiod of 50 million years. If you lookcarefully, you can see the markings of vastlydifferent water levels during the dry seasonand the ‘Big Wet’. From here it’s on to TunnelCreek for a guided walk into WesternAustralia’s oldest cave system, made famousin 1897 as a hideout for the Aboriginal leaderJandamarra. We’ll then continue to WindjanaGorge where a large population of Johnstonfresh water crocodiles inhabit the water hole.Before arriving at our hotel in Derby, we stop at the town’s jetty, built to handle huge10 metre tidal flows. Overnight Stay:King Sound Resort.

DAY 23 • DERBY – BROOMEWe leave Derby for Broome this morning. Onour way out of town we will visit the famousBoab Prison Tree that for many years wasused by police as a convenient lock-up forprisoners. Nearby is Myall’s Bore, wherestockmen would take turns in watering theirstock before loading them onto ships forexport. We then travel to Willie Creek PearlFarm where you will discover, during a guidedtour and cruise, how the rare and beautifulAustralian South Sea Pearl is produced. Two Night Stay: Cable Beach Club Resort orRendezvous Sanctuary Resort.

DAY 24 • BROOMEThis morning enjoy a tour of the sights ofBroome. Stop at Gantheaume Point for agreat photo opportunity looking back acrossCable Beach. We then stop at the BroomeJetty, a prime spot for keen fishermen. Nextwe visit the Japanese Cemetery, a testamentto the dangerous early days of the pearlingindustry as over 900 divers are buried here.View the Old Courthouse, built in 1888 afterreputedly being delivered to the wrongcountry. Enjoy a very informativedemonstration at the Pearl Luggers’ Museumas you learn of the perils of the deep andwhat made the pearl divers life so hazardous.This afternoon wander through the oldbuildings in China Town where manyindigenous art galleries and pearlshowrooms can be found. There is also theopportunity of taking an optional scenic flightover the picturesque Buccaneer Archipelago(at own expense). This evening’s dinner istime to relive many memorable holidaymoments and say farewell to your crew andfellow travellers.


Opportunity to add the Cape YorkExpedition tour to this holiday - see pages34-37 for itinerary.

29

All prices are per person, twin share in AUD. Fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees, accommodation and meals as specified. Additional activities are at own expense and unless otherwise stated mustbe booked on tour. Tour itinerary and pricing valid from 01 April 2009 to 31 March 2010. Enquire for itinerary and pricing that fall outside this period. Flights are not included. For full terms and conditions,please see pages 58-59.

2009 2010 25 Day Tour Tour Code: OGCBCairns to Broome $9,295Single Supplement $2,030

May 09Jun 27Aug 16

May 08Jun 26Aug 15


Daly Waters Pub

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Overnight stay at the Cairns Hilton, ideally located in the heart ofCairns and on the waterfront

• Guided tour of the 190,000 year old Undara Volcanic Lava Tubes • Ride aboard the historic Gulflander Train from Normanton to

Critters Camp • Explore Lawn Hill National Park on a guided walk • Visit John Flynn Place Museum in Cloncurry for an insight into the

beginnings of the Royal Flying Doctor Service • Visit the World Heritage listed Riversleigh Fossil Site • Guided cruise through stunning Katherine Gorge • Enjoy a swim in the pandanus fringed waterhole at spectacular

Edith Falls • Explore World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park • 3 night stay at the 5 star Crowne Plaza Hotel in Darwin • Visit beautiful Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park • Cruise down the spectacular Ord River and into Lake Kununurra • 2 night stay in the rugged Kimberley at Home Valley Station

Homestead, a working cattle station• Stay 2 nights in the World Heritage listed Purnululu National Park

at the Bellburn Safari Camp • Walk into the majestic Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm in the

Bungle Bungles • Cruise through the amazing Geikie Gorge • Walk into Tunnel Creek, Western Australia’s oldest cave system

and visit spectacular Windjana Gorge, home to Johnston freshwater crocodiles

• Stay 2 nights at luxurious Cable Beach Club Resort or RendezvousSanctuary Resort in Broome

• Broome sightseeing tour including a guided tour at Willie CreekPearl Farm and at the Pearl Luggers’ Museum

ACCOMMODATION

We have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles which make themost of what each region has to offer - from 3.5 to 5 star hotels towilderness lodges and tented cabins. Some of the remote outbackareas we have chosen are more about being there and theexperiences and memories you can take with you rather than theaccommodation itself. • Day 2 – your overnight stay at Undara Lava Lodge will be in unique

specially restored railway carriages with some carriages havingshared facilities

• Day 4 & 5 – your 2 night stay at Adel’s Grove is in basic butcomfortable permanent safari tents with shared facilities. Thestandard and style of tents may vary

• Day 7 – your overnight stay at Barkly Homestead is basic butcomfortable, all rooms have private ensuites

• Day 8 – your overnight stay at the colourful Daly Waters Pub isbasic but comfortable with some rooms having shared facilities

• Day 19 & 20 – your 2 night stay at Bellburn Safari Camp is inpermanently tented safari cabins, comfortable beds and sharedfacilities

ON TOUR ACTIVITIES

A number of great walks are included on various days throughoutthis tour. The following walks are considered moderate to difficultand a good level of fitness will especially be required for these walks:• Bindoola Gorge • Cathedral Gorge • Echidna Chasm • Mini Palms • Tunnel Creek

Wangi Falls, Litchfield National Park

DAY 1 • BROOMEOn arrival in Broome you will be met andtransferred to your hotel. Enjoy some freetime before meeting your Outback Discoverycrew and fellow travellers during yourwelcome dinner this evening. Two Night Stay:Cable Beach Club Resort or RendezvousSanctuary Resort.

DAY 2 • BROOMEThis morning enjoy a tour of the sights ofBroome. Stop at Gantheaume Point for agreat photo opportunity looking back acrossCable Beach. We then stop at the BroomeJetty, a prime spot for keen fishermen. Nextwe visit the Japanese Cemetery, a testamentto the dangerous early days of the pearlingindustry as over 900 divers are buried here.View the Old Courthouse, built in 1888 afterreputedly being delivered to the wrongcountry. Enjoy a very informativedemonstration at the Pearl Luggers’Museum as you learn of the perils of thedeep and what made the pearl divers life sohazardous. This afternoon wander throughthe old buildings in China Town where many indigenous art galleries and pearlshowrooms can be found. There is also theopportunity of taking an optional scenicflight over the picturesque BuccaneerArchipelago (at own expense, must be pre-booked^).

DAY 3 • BROOME – DERBY We leave Broome this morning and travel toWillie Creek Pearl Farm where you willdiscover, during a guided tour and cruise,how the rare and beautiful Australian SouthSea Pearl is produced. On our way intoDerby we will visit the Boab Prison Tree thatfor many years was used by police as aconvenient lock-up for prisoners. Nearby isMyall’s Bore, where stockmen would taketurns in watering their stock before loadingthem onto ships for export. Before arrivingat our hotel, we stop at the town’s jetty, builtto handle huge 10 metre tidal flows.Overnight Stay: King Sound Resort.

DAY 4 • DERBY – FITZROY CROSSING Our first stop this morning is at WindjanaGorge where a large population of Johnston

fresh water crocodiles inhabit the waterhole. From here it’s on to Tunnel Creek for aguided walk into Western Australia’s oldestcave system. This afternoon we’ll take acruise along magnificent Geikie Gorge. Thissanctuary was formed by layers of fossilisedcoral reefs that formed 30 metre steeplimestone walls over a period of 50 millionyears. If you look carefully, you can see themarkings of vastly different water levelsduring the dry season and the ‘Big Wet’. Ourdestination today is the Fitzroy River Lodgelocated on the banks of one of the highestvolume rivers on earth. Overnight Stay:Fitzroy River Lodge.

DAY 5 • FITZROY CROSSING –BUNGLE BUNGLES This morning we travel to Halls Creek, athriving service centre for pastoralists,Aboriginal communities and mining camps.Our journey follows the rugged red CarrBoyd Range before our vehicle turns off thehighway and into the World Heritage listedPurnululu National Park, home to one ofWestern Australia’s most fascinatinglandmarks, the Bungle Bungle range. Wewill then head to the southern end of thePark for a walk into Cathedral Gorge, anacoustically magnificent naturalamphitheatre. Two Night Stay: BellburnSafari Camp.

DAY 6 • BUNGLE BUNGLESThis morning there is the opportunity oftaking an optional helicopter flight over themagnificent Bungle Bungle range (at ownexpense). Seeing these incredible rockformations from the air gives a true sense ofthe scale of this incredible national park.Today, we drive to the northern end of theBungle Bungle range for a memorable day ofwalks into two of the Park’s best attractions.The first walk is into Echidna Chasm througha narrow gorge that reveals something newat every bend – it’s like walking through ahuge gap in the landscape with sunlightbouncing off the flaming red hues of the rockwalls. After lunch, we set off along a creekbed into Mini Palms. A climb through rockyoutcrops brings you to a platform atop a

scenic amphitheatre for views of verdantpalm trees and the valley beyond.

DAY 7 • BUNGLE BUNGLES – HOME VALLEY STATION – KIMBERLEY We leave Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) NationalPark this morning and travel north along theGreat Northern Highway before joining thefamous Gibb River Road which takes us toHome Valley Station, a working cattle station spread over 700,000 acres of untamedKimberley wilderness. Two Night Stay:Home Valley Station Homestead.

DAY 8 • HOME VALLEY STATION –KIMBERLEYThis morning enjoy a guided tour of this partof the rugged Kimberley. Visit the mightyPentecost River, explore the vast and ancientsandstone cliffs of Bindoola Gorge and takea refreshing swim in the clear waters of theBindoola Pools. Your Aboriginal guide willshare with you the history and indigenousinvolvment that surround Home Valley’soperations. This afternoon is at your leisureto continue exploring the surrounds of HomeValley Station.

DAY 9 • HOME VALLEY STATION –KUNUNURRA We farewell Home Valley Station thismorning and travel to the Cambridge Gulfand the port of Wyndham. A visit here is notcomplete without taking in the panoramicviews of the region at the Five RiversLookout. You’ll see for miles out across theCambridge Gulf and the five rivers that flowinto it - the Ord, Pentecost, Durack, King andForrest. On our way into Kununurra we’llstop at Zebra Rock Gallery to see workscarved by local residents from the patternedstone unique to the region. Two Night Stay:Kununurra Lakeside Resort.

DAY 10 • KUNUNURRAKununurra is a vibrant town at the centre of the fertile Ord River Irrigation Schemewhich ships huge volumes of fruit and freshproduce to Australian and overseas markets.To start this exciting day we depart forIvanhoe Crossing, the original crossingacross the Ord River. Next we visit theHoochery, the State’s only licensed distillery

GULF SAVANNAH WAY25 days Broome to Cairns

30

The Bungle Bungles, Purnululu National ParkKookaburra

where rum is produced from local sugar.We then drive to the rebuilt homestead ofthe Durack family - Argyle Downs. After avisit to the homestead that is now amuseum, we cross the dam wall to join acruise down the spectacular Ord River andinto Lake Kununurra.

DAY 11 • KUNUNURRA – KATHERINE We leave Western Australia and theKimberley and enter the Northern Territory.We’ll travel through Timber Creek, namedin 1855 when the explorer AugustusGregory used timber from the banks of thecreek to repair his expedition’s boat.Victoria River crossing is our lunch stop.The river is known by locals as ‘The Vic’ andwas a key influence on Aboriginal heritageand today is a lifeline for pastoralproperties. We’ll pass by the Victoria RiverDowns Station which was once the largestland holding on earth, and Bullo RiverStation, made famous by top-selling authorSara Henderson whose books vividlydescribed station life. Overnight Stay:All Seasons Katherine.

DAY 12 • KATHERINE – JABIRUThis morning we take a leisurely cruisethrough Katherine Gorge. The cruise takesin two of thirteen gorges carved throughancient sandstone by the Katherine River. Atthe Nitmiluk Visitors’ Centre you will seeinformative displays outlining the geology,landscape and Aboriginal history of thenational park. Spectacular Edith Falls is ournext stop where you can swim in the largepandanus fringed waterhole at the base ofthe falls. After lunch, we drive on to KakaduNational Park, 20,000 square kilometres ofsavannah woodland, ancient escarpmentsand tropical wilderness inhabited by amultitude of flora and fauna. Depending ontime and availability, you might choose totake a scenic flight over the wetlands ofKakadu (at own expense). Alternatively avisit to the excellent Bowali Visitors’ Centrewill provide you with plenty of informationabout this complex region. Overnight Stay:Gagudju Crocodile Holiday Inn.

31

Caption

Leic

hhar

dt

Rive

r

MOUNT ISA

NORMANTON

CAIRNS

UNDARA1


1

1

NORTHERN TERRITORY

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

QUEENSLAND

Lawn Hill National ParkDALY

WATERS

BARKLYHOMESTEAD

FITZROYCROSSING

DERBYGeikieGorgeCruise

BROOME BUNGLE BUNGLES


Ord River

Vict

oria

Rive

r

Tabl

elan

ds H

ighw

ay

Stua

rt H

ighw

ay

Barkly Highway

Lake Argyle

WindjanaGorge

21

2

2

1

HOME VALLEYSTATION

2

Katherine GorgeCruise

JABIRUDARWIN

KATHERINE

Kakadu National

Park 1


1

1

11

2

3

ADEL’SGROVE

KUNUNURRA



1

Kimberley

Tanami Desert


1

DAY 13 • JABIRU – DARWIN This morning enjoy a cruise on the YellowWaters Billabong where it’s possible to seeestuarine crocodiles in their natural habitat. One third of Australia's bird speciesis represented in Kakadu National Park, with at least 60 species found in thesewetlands. Whistling ducks, jabiru, brolgaand magpie geese are the most abundant.Then it’s on to Ubirr to view Aboriginal rockart galleries that date back thousands ofyears. After a climb up onto the escarpmentyou will be rewarded by panoramic views ofscenery you will never forget. In the heart ofcrocodile, buffalo and barramundi country,we will stop briefly at the quirky Bark HutInn. Our journey then takes us to the laid-backtropical city of Darwin. Three Night Stay:Crowne Plaza Hotel.

DAY 14 • DARWIN – LITCHFIELD NATIONAL PARK –DARWINWe will spend today touring in LitchfieldNational Park where numerous waterfallscascade from a sandstone plateau calledthe Tabletop Range. View intriguingmagnetic termite mounds. We then travel tothe extraordinarily beautiful Wangi Falls for thechance to swim in the pool at the base of thefalls, which is one of the Top End’s most popularswimming spots. After lunch we’ll spend theafternoon at the Territory Wildlife Parkwhere you can get close to the birdlife inthe dome aviary or walk through theaquarium tunnel as barramundi and turtlesswim overhead. The majority of fauna foundin the Top End is represented in this Parkwhich covers 400 hectares.

CONTINUED NEXT PAGELake Argyle

32

Yellow Waters Billabong CruiseUndara Lave Tubes

DAY 15 • DARWINYou have a day of leisure in Darwin today toexplore on your own. The harbour foreshorearea is a great place to discover the city’smaritime links, with museums and markets.

DAY 16 • DARWIN – KATHERINEAfter breakfast travel to the small settlementtown of Adelaide River which was the basefor 30,000 Australian and American soldiersduring World War II. Visit the war cemeteryfor the hundreds of servicemen and civilianswho were killed by air raids in Darwin.Continue on via Pine Creek to Katherinewhere we will visit the Katherine OutbackHeritage Museum. Originally constructed asan air terminal for the region during WWII, itnow contains an eclectic collection ofartefacts, photographs, maps and pioneermemorabilia in an informative museum. Thisevening we head out to a nearby stock campto dine on traditional bush tucker under theclear star studded sky. After a deliciousmeal, sit back and enjoy the humorous yarnsand stories of the local area. Overnight Stay:All Seasons Katherine.

DAY 17 • KATHERINE – DALY WATERS Today our route takes us along the StuartHighway towards Mataranka and DalyWaters. At Mataranka’s Hot Springs take adip in the warm thermal pools which are fedby water that originates in Papua NewGuinea. Later we will call into the ElseyCemetery to see the grave of Aeneas Gunnand several other characters from ‘We of theNever Never’ written by Jeannie Gunn. Thenext stop will be well received as it is at thecolourful Daly Waters Pub. Overnight Stay:Daly Waters Pub.

DAY 18 • DALY WATERS – BARKLY HOMESTEAD Today we drive south along the TablelandsHighway passing through the NorthernTerritory’s largest pastoral lease, BrunetteDowns Cattle Station. As we cross the vastplains of Mitchell and Flinders grass you willget a true understanding of the long distancesbetween settlements in this remote region.Overnight Stay: Barkly Homestead.

DAY 19 • BARKLY HOMESTEAD – MOUNT ISA The Barkly Highway takes us east to theNorthern Territory border and Camooweal.The road is now almost perfectly straight andleads us to Mount Isa, known as the ‘Oasis ofthe Outback’, nestled among the ochre-redSelwyn Ranges on the banks of the LeichhardtRiver. We’ll spend some time this afternoon atthe Outback at Isa complex, incorporating theHard Times Mine, Sir James Foots Building,Outback Park and Visitor Information Centre.The award-winning Riversleigh Fossil Centreis located within the centre and is a greatplace to visit to get a clear explanation of whatyou will see at the Riversleigh Fossil Site nearLawn Hill. Later we will take a drive aroundthe town and pass the huge Mount Isa Mine,the world's largest single producer of copper, silver, lead and zinc. Overnight Stay: All Seasons Verona.

DAY 20 • MOUNT ISA – ADEL’S GROVE Today we travel to Cloncurry where we willvisit John Flynn Place Museum. The exhibitshere trace the inspirational story of theorigins of the Royal Flying Doctor Service.We turn north for lunch at the Burke andWills Roadhouse. Then we drive on to thehistoric town of Gregory Downs where theold hotel is the centre of society. We’ll visitthe Gregory Downs Pub before our drive toAdel’s Grove, the gateway to Lawn HillNational Park and Riversleigh Fossil Site.Two Night Stay: Adel’s Grove.

DAY 21 • ADEL’S GROVEThis morning we travel a short distance tothe Riversleigh Fossil Site. This is one of thefew fossil sites around the world that hasbeen listed as World Heritage. We thencontinue our adventure in Lawn HillNational Park where you will take guidedwalks with your crew, swim in the spring-fed waters of the gorge or explore aboard acanoe. We’ll return to Adel’s Grove in time torelax with friends before dinner.

DAY 22 • ADEL’S GROVE – NORMANTONOur drive today takes us north across theSavannah grasslands to the gulf town ofBurketown. We’ll then continue to LeichhardtRiver which was named after the great

explorer who went missing without a trace.We will then continue to the gulf town ofKarumba, where a huge prawn trawlingfleet is based. It was near Karumba that the Bourke and Wills expedition reached the top end of Australia. Continue on toNormanton, our destination for the evening.Overnight Stay: Gulfland Motel.

DAY 23 • NORMANTON – UNDARA This morning we board the Gulflander Trainfor a ride back in time. This historic littletrain takes you on a journey with a differencethrough the tough and inhospitable GulfCountry to Critters Camp. Your driver iswaiting to take you to the historic village ofCroydon, which was once a booming goldtown. We’ll then travel to Georgetown andvisit the Terrestrial Centre. Here you willview the multi award-winning Ted ElliottMineral Collection that contains over 4,500mineral specimens in a myriad of fascinatingcolours and shapes from the region andthroughout the world. Later we’ll drive toUndara on the eastern edge of the ruggedlybeautiful Gulf Savannah region. After dinnertonight, have some fun around the campfireswapping tales. Overnight Stay: Undara LavaLodge, in unique specially restored railwaycarriages.

DAY 24 • UNDARA – CAIRNSThis morning enjoy a guided tour of theUndara Lava Tubes, formed some 190,000years ago. We then farewell Undara anddrive to the tablelands farming town ofAtherton. This afternoon we’ll enjoyspectacular views as we drive through therainforests of the Great Dividing Range downto the coast and Cairns. This evening’sdinner is time to relive many memorableholiday moments and say farewell to yourcrew and fellow travellers. Overnight Stay:Cairns Hilton Hotel.

DAY 25 • CAIRNSThis morning after breakfast you’ll betransferred to the airport for yourhomebound flight.

Opportunity to add the Cape YorkExpedition tour to this holiday –see pages 34-37 for itinerary.

33

Windjana GorgeThe Savannah Way

All prices are per person, twin share in AUD. Fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees, accommodation and meals as specified. Additional activities are at own expense and unless otherwise stated must be booked on tour. Tour itinerary and pricing valid from 01 April 2009 to 31 March 2010. Enquire for itinerary and pricing that fall outside this period. ^ The Buccaneer Archipelago optional flight must be bookedat the time of booking this tour.Flights are not included. For full terms and conditions, please see pages 58-59.

2009 2010 25 Day Tour Tour Code: OGBCCairns to Broome $9,295Single Supplement $2,030

Apr 15May 19Jun 02Jul 21

Apr 14May 18Jun 01Jul 20


TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Stay 2 nights at luxurious Cable Beach Club Resort orRendezvous Sanctuary Resort in Broome

• Broome sightseeing tour including a guided tour at WillieCreek Pearl Farm and at the Pearl Luggers’ Museum

• Walk into Tunnel Creek, Western Australia’s oldest cave systemand visit spectacular Windjana Gorge, home to Johnston freshwater crocodiles

• Cruise through the amazing Geikie Gorge • Stay 2 nights in the World Heritage listed Purnululu National

Park at the Bellburn Safari Camp • Walk into the majestic Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm in

the Bungle Bungles • 2 night stay in the rugged Kimberley at Home Valley Station

Homestead, a working cattle station• Cruise down the spectacular Ord River and into Lake Kununurra • Visit beautiful Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park • 3 night stay at the 5 star Crowne Plaza Hotel in Darwin • Explore World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park • Enjoy a swim in the pandanus fringed waterhole at spectacular

Edith Falls • Guided cruise through stunning Katherine Gorge • Visit the World Heritage listed Riversleigh Fossil Site • Visit John Flynn Place Museum in Cloncurry for an insight into

the beginnings of the Royal Flying Doctor Service • Explore Lawn Hill National Park on a guided walk • Ride aboard the historic Gulflander Train from Normanton to

Critters Camp • Guided tour of the 190,000 year old Undara Volcanic Lava Tubes • Overnight stay at the Cairns Hilton, ideally located in the heart

of Cairns and on the waterfront

ACCOMMODATION

We have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles whichmake the most of what each region has to offer - from 3.5 to 5star hotels to wilderness lodges and tented cabins. Some of theremote outback areas we have chosen are more about beingthere and the experiences and memories you can take with yourather than the accommodation itself. • Day 5 & 6 – your 2 night stay at Bellburn Safari Camp is in

permanently tented safari cabins, comfortable beds andshared facilities

• Day 17 – your overnight stay at the colourful Daly Waters Pubis basic but comfortable with some rooms having sharedfacilities

• Day 18 – your overnight stay at Barkly Homestead is basic butcomfortable, all rooms have private ensuites

• Day 20 & 21 – your 2 night stay at Adel’s Grove is in basic butcomfortable permanent safari tents with shared facilities. The standard and style of tents may vary

• Day 23 – your overnight stay at Undara Lava Lodge will be inunique specially restored railway carriages with somecarriages having shared facilities

ON TOUR ACTIVITTIES

A number of great walks are included on various days throughoutthis tour. The following walks are considered moderate to difficultand a good level of fitness will especially be required for thesewalks:• Tunnel Creek • Cathedral Gorge • Echidna Chasm • Mini Palms• Bindoola Gorge

DAY 1 • CAIRNSOn arrival at Cairns you will be met andtransferred to your hotel. Enjoy some freetime exploring the city, browsing in theshops along the esplanade or relaxing bythe pool. This evening meet your OutbackDiscovery crew and get together with fellowtravellers during your welcome dinner.Overnight Stay: Cairns Hilton Hotel.

DAY 2 • CAIRNS – CAPE TRIBULATIONDeparting Cairns this morning, we drivenorth along the Captain Cook Highway toHartley’s Crocodile Adventures, the bestplace to see crocodiles and native wildlife inthe tropical north. Take a boat ride onHartley's Lagoon for a unique eco adventureand guaranteed sightings of crocodiles intheir own habitat. Continuing north to PortDouglas you’ll see some of Australia’s bestscenery where isolated beaches and theCoral Sea are fringed by hills covered inrainforest. We’ll take a drive to thesophisticated holiday town of Port Douglasbefore continuing to Mossman, a quaintsugar cane town and the gateway to theDaintree River ferry crossing. Once acrossthe river you will be in the oldest rainforeston earth, which was confirmed as a WorldHeritage listed area in 1988. At the DaintreeDiscovery Centre there is a wealth ofinformation on the area’s birds, butterfliesand crocodiles. On the cleverly designedaerial walkway and canopy tower, you maybe lucky enough to spot a cassowary on thebanks of the creek below. Overnight Stay:Cape Tribulation Resort & Spa.

DAY 3 • CAPE TRIBULATION –COOKTOWNTravel inland to the historic mining andtimber town of Mount Molloy this morningbefore joining the Mulligan Highway wherewe will travel along galloping straights and atwisty mountain road which then climbssteep escarpments overlooking rust-redrocky amphitheatres and tropical savannah.The Mulligan Highway was named aftermining pioneer James Venture Mulligan whowas closely associated with the discovery andopening of the Palmer goldfields. Continueon to Palmer River Roadhouse before

arriving at the Lions Den Hotel, our lunchstop for today. This timber and iron hotel is alocal landmark which has enjoyed a richhistory since 1875. We’ll stop to inspect theunusually formed black granite boulders ofthe Black Mountain Range before arriving atCooktown. Cooktown has over two centuriesof rich history, starting with Captain JamesCook beaching the Endeavour for repairsafter striking the reef in 1770. A centurylater, the town’s population increasedmassively during the gold rush. You will visitthe James Cook Museum, housed in a 120-year-old convent building and widelyregarded as the best regional museum inAustralia. At the Botanic Gardens you willsee the exotic plant section, a ‘palmetum’and native plants unique to this area. Ourhotel is conveniently located on the mainstreet, perfect for a late afternoon stroll.Overnight Stay: Sovereign Resort Hotel.

DAY 4 • COOKTOWN – LOTUS BIRD LODGEUNESCO rates Cape York's Quinkan regionamong the world's top ten prehistoric rockart areas. We’ll visit a fine example thismorning at the Split Rock Aboriginal art sitenear Laura. We then drive to Old Laura andthe abandoned homestead, a rare survivingexample of an early Cape York Peninsulapastoral station. The house, outbuildingsand yards are still structurally sound and inoriginal condition. Further north we enterLakefield National Park. The Park isrenowned for its vast river systems andspectacular wetlands and the landscape isof major Aboriginal cultural significance.This afternoon you’ll see the ruins at BreezaPlains before we arrive at Lotus Bird Lodgefor some true Cape York country hospitality.You will stay in individual pole style cabinsset amongst shady eucalypts along the innerbank of a large horseshoe shaped billabong.Tonight we’ll have dinner overlooking thebillabong. Overnight Stay: Lotus Bird Lodge.

DAY 5 • LOTUS BIRD LODGE – WEIPA After leaving Lotus Bird we rejoin thePeninsula Developmental Road at Musgraveand drive north, passing through the townof Coen that grew up around a repeaterstation along the Overland Telegraph Line.

We’ll have lunch at the Archer RiverRoadhouse before crossing the river andcontinuing our journey to Weipa. Weipa is amining town built to house employees andsupport staff who work at the largestbauxite deposit in the world. Overnight Stay:Albatross Bay Resort.

DAY 6 • WEIPA – MORETON TELEGRAPH STATIONToday you’ll join a guided tour of the WeipaTownship and mine, which gives aninformative overview of the mining andshipping process. You’ll see the bauxiteoperations, the enormous miningequipment, trucks, trains and other plantemployed at Weipa. We’ll have afternoon teaat the historic Moreton Telegraph Station,built in 1886 as part of the OverlandTelegraph Line and converted to a homesteadduring the 1920’s. Overnight Stay:Moreton Telegraph Station.

DAY 7 • MORETON TELEGRAPH STATION– BAMAGAAfter a bush morning tea stop we will travelto picturesque Fruit Bat Falls where you canplunge into the crystal clear spring-fedwater or just relax on shore. We’ll cross theJardine River by ferry. The river is namedafter the great pioneering cattle family thatbegan at a government outpost in 1864when John Jardine was the policemagistrate. As we take the short ferry tripacross the river, keep an eye out for thehuge crocodiles that inhabit the rivers in theCape York region. Passing through theAboriginal communities of Injinoo andUmagico we reach Bamaga. Two Night Stay:Resort Bamaga or Seisia Holiday Park.

DAY 8 • BAMAGA – TIP OF CAPE YORKA short drive followed by a moderate walk iswell rewarded today as you stand at the tip ofCape York, which is the northernmost point ofthe Australian continent and the surroundingpeninsula, a wild and sparsely populatedwilderness area. Its rugged coastline pointstowards New Guinea, while the eastern side isfringed by the Great Barrier Reef. Thisafternoon we will visit The Croc Tent where youcan find all sorts of Cape York memorabilia andinformation on the area. See the Lockerbie

CAPE YORK EXPEDITION11 days Cairns to Cairns Northbound

34

CooktownThe Captain Cook HighwayThe Captain Cook Highway

Opportunity to add the Gulf Savannah Waytour to this holiday - see pages 26-33 foritinerary.

Ruins and Word War II aircraft wreck sitebefore returning to our accommodation fortime at leisure before dinner.

DAY 9 • BAMAGA – THURSDAY ISLANDThis morning your ferry to Thursday Islandsails from Seisia. The island is 35kilometres from the mainland and is theadministration centre for the Torres StraitIslands. The heart of Thursday Island(traditionally known as ‘Waiben’) is itsharbour, which was once home to a fleetof 150 pearl luggers. Commercial fishingand prawning are the main livelihoodtoday. You’ll enjoy a guided tour of theisland and a highlight is the Gab TituiCultural Centre that houses historicalartefacts and tools, as well as bothmodern and traditional Torres Strait art.Overnight Stay: Jardine Motel.

DAY 10 • THURSDAY ISLAND – CAIRNSA short ferry trip to Horn Island is arelaxing way to start the day. The island isjust south of Papua New Guinea and thelocal lifestyle is a fusion of Melanesian andAustralian Aboriginal cultures. On arrivalyou will be taken on a guided tour of theisland and learn about its history. HornIsland came into prominence during WorldWar II when it suffered eight Japanese airraids. Today, the island’s small populationrelies on pearling and fishing. Your tour willvisit the museum and art gallery in thesmall town of Wasaga, as well as someWorld War II sites. This afternoon you boardyour flight from Horn Island to Cairns(included in tour fare). This evening’sdinner is time to relive many memorableholiday moments and say farewell to yourcrew and fellow travellers. Overnight Stay:Cairns Hilton Hotel.

DAY 11 • CAIRNSThis morning after breakfast you will betransferred to the airport for yourhomebound flight.

35

Daintree Rainforest Tower

LOTUS BIRD LODGE

WEIPA

MORETON TELEGRAPH

STATION

BAMAGA

THURSDAY ISLAND

CAIRNS

1

1

1

2

1Daintree

National Park

Lakefield National Park

Jardine River

Archer River

Horn Island

1

1

1 COOKTOWN

CAPE TRIBULATION

1


1

May 17Jun 05, 16, 26Aug 11, 31

May 16Jun 04, 25Jul 20Aug 10, 30


11 Day Tour Tour Code: OCYNCairns to Cairns Northbound $5,195Single Supplement $940

All prices are per person, twin share in AUD. Fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees, accommodation and meals asspecified. Tour itinerary and pricing valid from 01 April 2009 to 31 March 2010. Enquire for itinerary and pricing that fall outsidethis period. Flight from Horn Island to Cairns is included in tour fare. All other flights are not included in tour fare. For full termsand conditions, please see pages 58-59.

2009 2010

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Travel in a small group of up to 20 passengers • 2 night stay at the Cairns Hilton Hotel, ideally located in the heart of Cairns and on

the waterfront • Tour the award-winning Hartley’s Crocodile Adventure where you are guaranteed to see

crocodiles in their own habitat • Visit the Daintree Discovery Centre for an excellent insight into the oldest continuous

rainforest on earth • Overnight stay in Cape Tribulation at Cape Tribulation Resort & Spa, situated between

the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef • Explore historic Cooktown including a visit to the James Cook Museum and the

Botanic Gardens • Discover the spectacular wetlands of Lakefield National Park • Guided tour of Weipa Township and the Comalco Bauxite Mine • Visit the picturesque Fruit Bat Falls and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal

clear waters• Stand at the tip of Cape York • Guided tour of Thursday Island including a visit to the Gab Titui Cultural Centre • Guided tour of Horn Island with a visit to the museum and some of the historic

World War II sites• Flight from Horn Island to Cairns

ACCOMMODATION

We have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles which make the most of whateach region has to offer - from 3.5 to 5 star hotels to wilderness lodges and tentedcabins. Some of the remote outback areas we have chosen are more about being thereand the experiences and memories you can take with you rather than theaccommodation itself. • Day 6 – your overnight stay at Moreton Telegraph Station is in basic but comfortable

permanent tents with shared facilities• Day 7 & 8 – departures staying at Seisia Holiday Park will be in basic but comfortable

villas or cottages, all with private ensuites. The standard and style of rooms may vary

DAY 1 • CAIRNSOn arrival at Cairns airport you will be metand transferred to your hotel. Enjoy somefree time exploring the city, browsing in theshops along the esplanade or relaxing bythe pool. This evening meet your OutbackDiscovery crew and get together with fellowtravellers during your welcome dinner.Overnight Stay: Cairns Hilton Hotel.

DAY 2 • CAIRNS – THURSDAY ISLAND This morning board your flight from Cairnsto Horn Island (included in tour fare). Theisland is just south of Papua New Guineaand the local lifestyle is a fusion ofMelanesian and Australian Aboriginalcultures. On arrival you will be taken on aguided tour of the island and learn about itshistory. Horn Island came into prominenceduring World War II when it suffered eightJapanese air raids. Today, the island’ssmall population relies on pearling andfishing. Your tour will visit the museum andart gallery in the small town of Wasaga, aswell as some World War II sites. A shortferry trip to Thursday Island is a relaxingway to end your first day of touring. Theisland is 35 kilometres from the mainlandand is the administration centre for theTorres Strait Islands. Overnight Stay:Jardine Motel.

DAY 3 • THURSDAY ISLAND – BAMAGA The heart of Thursday Island (traditionallyknown as ‘Waiben’) is its harbour, whichwas once home to a fleet of 150 pearlluggers. Commercial fishing and prawningare the main livelihood today. You’ll enjoy aguided tour of the island and a highlight isthe Gab Titui Cultural Centre that houseshistorical artefacts and tools, as well asboth modern and traditional Torres Straitart. This afternoon your ferry to the coastalvillage of Seisia sails from Thursday Island.Two Night Stay: Resort Bamaga or SeisiaHoliday Park.

DAY 4 • TIP OF CAPE YORK – BAMAGA A short drive followed by a moderate walk iswell rewarded today as you stand at the tipof Cape York, which is the northernmostpoint of the Australian continent and thesurrounding peninsula, a wild and sparsely

bank of a large horseshoe shapedbillabong. Tonight we’ll have dinneroverlooking the billabong. Overnight Stay:Lotus Bird Lodge.

DAY 8 • LOTUS BIRD LODGE –COOKTOWN We farewell Lotus Bird Lodge this morningand travel south to enter LakefieldNational Park. The Park is renowned forits vast river systems and spectacularwetlands and the landscape is of majorAboriginal cultural significance. We thendrive to Old Laura and the abandonedhomestead, a rare surviving example of anearly Cape York Peninsula pastoral station.The house, outbuildings and yards are stillstructurally sound and in originalcondition. UNESCO rates Cape York'sQuinkan region among the world's top tenprehistoric rock art areas. We’ll visit a fineexample this afternoon at the Split RockAboriginal art site near Laura. Cooktownhas over two centuries of rich history,starting with Captain James Cookbeaching the Endeavour for repairs afterstriking the reef in 1770. A century later,the town’s population increased massivelyduring the gold rush. Our hotel isconveniently located on the main street,perfect for a late afternoon stroll.Overnight Stay: Sovereign Resort Hotel.

DAY 9 • COOKTOWN –CAPE TRIBULATION At Cooktown’s Botanic Gardens thismorning you will see the exotic plantsection, a ‘palmetum’ and native plantsunique to this area. Then we will visit theJames Cook Museum, housed in a 120-year-old convent building and widelyregarded as the best regional museum inAustralia. After leaving Cooktown we’llstop to inspect the unusually formed blackgranite boulders of the Black MountainRange before arriving at the Lions DenHotel, our lunch stop for today. This timberand iron hotel is a local landmark whichhas enjoyed a rich history since 1875.Travel to Palmer River Roadhouse beforejoining the Mulligan Highway where we willtravel along galloping straights and atwisty mountain road which then climbs

CAPE YORK EXPEDITION11 days Cairns to Cairns Southbound

36

Daintree River crossingIndigenous boys dancing, Bamaga

populated wilderness area. Its ruggedcoastline points towards New Guinea, whilethe eastern side is fringed by the GreatBarrier Reef. This afternoon we will visitThe Croc Tent where you can find all sorts ofCape York memorabilia and information onthe area. See the Lockerbie Ruins andWorld War II aircraft wreck site beforereturning to our accommodation for time atleisure before dinner.

DAY 5 • BAMAGA –MORETON TELEGRAPH STATIONThis morning we’ll cross the Jardine Riverby ferry. The river is named after the greatpioneering cattle family that began at agovernment outpost in 1864 when JohnJardine was the police magistrate. As wetake the short ferry trip across the river,keep an eye out for the huge crocodilesthat inhabit the rivers in the Cape Yorkregion. At picturesque Fruit Bat Falls we’ll have lunch and you can plunge into the crystal clear spring-fed water or just relax on shore. Overnight Stay:Moreton Telegraph Station.

DAY 6 • MORETON TELEGRAPH STATION– WEIPA Our destination today is Weipa, a miningtown built to house employees and supportstaff who work at the largest bauxite depositin the world. After lunch you’ll join a guidedtour of the Weipa Township and mine, which gives an informative overview of themining and shipping process. You’ll see the bauxite operations, the enormous miningequipment, trucks, trains and other plantemployed at Weipa. Overnight Stay:Albatross Bay Resort.

DAY 7 • WEIPA – LOTUS BIRD LODGE After leaving Weipa we’ll have lunch at theArcher River Roadhouse before crossing theriver and continuing our journey south. We’llpass through the town of Coen that grew uparound a repeater station along theOverland Telegraph Line. This afternoonwe’ll arrive at Lotus Bird Lodge for sometrue Cape York country hospitality. You willstay in individual pole style cabins setamongst shady eucalypts along the inner

LOTUS BIRD LODGE

WEIPA

MORETON TELEGRAPH

STATION

BAMAGA

THURSDAY ISLAND

CAIRNS

1

1

1

2

1Daintree

National Park

Lakefield National Park

Jardine River

Archer River

Horn Island

1

1

1 COOKTOWN

CAPE TRIBULATION

1

steep escarpments overlooking rust-redrocky amphitheatres and tropical savannah.The Mulligan Highway was named aftermining pioneer James Venture Mulliganwho was closely associated with thediscovery and opening of the Palmergoldfields. Head out to the historic miningand timber town of Mount Molloy beforearriving at our accommodation for thisevening. Overnight Stay: Cape TribulationResort & Spa.

DAY 10 • CAPE TRIBULATION – CAIRNS At the Daintree Discovery Centre you’lldiscover a wealth of information on theoldest rainforest on earth, which wasconfirmed as a World Heritage listed areain 1988. The centre also has informativedisplays about the area’s birds, butterfliesand crocodiles. On the cleverly designedaerial walkway and canopy tower, you maybe lucky enough to spot a cassowary on thebanks of the creek below. We’ll drive on tothe Daintree River ferry crossing beforecontinuing to Mossman, a quaint sugarcane town. Continuing south we drivethrough the sophisticated holiday town ofPort Douglas before passing some ofAustralia’s best scenery where isolatedbeaches and the Coral Sea are fringed byhills covered in rainforest. Our final stop isHartley’s Crocodile Adventures, the bestplace to see crocodiles and native wildlife inthe tropical north. Take a boat ride onHartley's Lagoon for a unique ecoadventure and guaranteed sightings ofcrocodiles in their own habitat. Thisevening’s dinner is time to relive manymemorable holiday moments and sayfarewell to your crew and fellow travellers.Overnight Stay: Cairns Hilton Hotel.

DAY 11 • CAIRNSThis morning after breakfast you will betransferred to the airport for yourhomebound flight.

37

Lotus Lily


1

Opportunity to add the Gulf Savannah Waytour to this holiday - see pages 26-33 foritinerary.




11 Day Tour Tour Code: OCYSCairns to Cairns Southbound $5,195Single Supplement $940

All prices are per person, twin share in AUD. Fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees, accommodation and meals asspecified. Tour itinerary and pricing valid from 01 April 2009 to 31 March 2010. Enquire for itinerary and pricing that fall outsidethis period. Flight from Horn Island to Cairns is included in tour fare. All other flights are not included in tour fare. For full termsand conditions, please see pages 58-59.

2009 2010

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Travel in a small group of up to 20 passengers • 2 night stay at the Cairns Hilton Hotel, ideally located in the heart of Cairns and on

the waterfront • Flight from Horn Island to Cairns• Guided tour of Horn Island with a visit to the museum and some of the historic World

War II sites• Guided tour of Thursday Island including a visit to the Gab Titui Cultural Centre • Stand at the tip of Cape York • Visit the picturesque Fruit Bat Falls and enjoy a refreshing swim in the crystal

clear waters• Guided tour of Weipa Township and the Comalco Bauxite Mine• Enjoy the tranquillity of the Australian bush during your overnight stay at Lotus

Bird Lodge • Discover the spectacular wetlands of Lakefield National Park • Explore historic Cooktown including a visit to the James Cook Museum and the

Botanic Gardens • Overnight stay in Cape Tribulation at Cape Tribulation Resort & Spa, situated between

the World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef • Visit the Daintree Discovery Centre for an excellent insight into the oldest continuous

rainforest on earth • Tour the award-winning Hartley’s Crocodile Adventure where you are guaranteed to see

crocodiles in their own habitat

ACCOMMODATION

We have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles which make the most of whateach region has to offer - from 3.5 to 5 star hotels to wilderness lodges and tentedcabins. Some of the remote outback areas we have chosen are more about being thereand the experiences and memories you can take with you rather than theaccommodation itself. • Day 3 & 4 – departures staying at Seisia Holiday Park will be in basic but comfortable

villas or cottages, all with private ensuites. The standard and style of rooms may vary• Day 5 – your overnight stay at Moreton Telegraph Station is in basic but comfortable

permanent tents with shared facilities

DAY 1 • BRISBANEOn arrival at Brisbane airport (please bookflights to arrive by 12.00pm) you will be met andtransferred to your hotel. This afternoon meetyour Outback Discovery crew and fellowtravellers and join them on a trip to the GoldCoast. We’ll drive along the coast’s strip ofseemingly endless beaches, stopping for photoson the way. This evening you’ll attend theAustralian Outback Spectacular presented byR.M.Williams – a stirring presentation ofoutback life with a great cast, 31 talentedhorses and brilliant special effects. During theshow you’ll be served a three course Aussiedinner with beer, wine and soft drinks.Overnight Stay: Hotel Ibis Brisbane.

DAY 2 • BRISBANE – ROMAThis morning visit Australia Zoo. You will seeexciting wildlife shows, chat with friendlyzookeepers and get close to many of thedifferent animals. We then drive west over theGreat Dividing Range to the Darling Downs andDalby, the wheat capital of Queensland. We’llpass through Chinchilla and Miles beforearriving in Roma on the western slopes of thedowns. Overnight Stay: Roma Explorers Inn.

DAY 3 • ROMA – CARNARVON GORGEIn 1863 Samuel Bassett brought vine cuttings toRoma and started Queensland’s first wine-making enterprise. The town is also famous forits part in Australia’s oil and gas industry andthis morning we’ll visit the Big Rig. Learn aboutthe unique history of the industry from the firstdiscovery of petroleum, through the boom andbust years of oil and gas exploration and on totoday's multi-billion dollar industry. AtCarnarvon National Park we’ll take a guidedwalk into Carnarvon Gorge. The surroundingpark boasts unique wildlife, spectacularscenery and incredible bush walks. OvernightStay: Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge.

DAY 4 • CARNARVON GORGE – EMERALDCarnarvon Gorge has over 25 kilometres ofwalking tracks criss-crossing fresh waterstreams, meandering through lush tropicalgorges with sandstone cliffs, passing bytranquil waterfalls and delving into the deeprock crevices that conceal many significantAboriginal art sites. After breakfast we’ll takeanother walk in the National Park before

continuing on to Emerald. Despite its name,there are no emeralds to be found in Emeraldbut it is surrounded by rich gemfields.Overnight Stay: Emerald Maraboon Motor Inn.

DAY 5 • EMERALD – LONGREACHFrom Emerald we drive to Anakie where youcan fossick for sapphires and other prizedgems at the Big Sapphire. On to Alpha, wheremany town buildings are adorned with muralspainted by local artists. Barcaldine was thescene of the Great Shearers' Strike in 1891which led to the formation of the AustralianLabor Party. The Australian Workers HeritageCentre records these historic events and your visit uncovers the rich heritage, historyand traditions of all working Australians. Two Night Stay: Albert Park Motel.

DAY 6 • LONGREACHOur day starts at the Qantas Founders OutbackMuseum to inspect the original 1922 hangarused by departing flights, the 747-200 aircraftand the first ever Qantas jet passenger aircraftregistered in Australia, the Boeing 707. At theAustralian Stockman's Hall of Fame you’lldiscover the history of this country’s brave andintrepid explorers, the stockmen and aboriginesof pioneering Australia. This afternoon you’llvisit 'Longway Station', a 34,000 acre workingsheep and livestock grazing station, and learnabout land care in the outback. This eveningenjoy a spectacular sunset dinner cruise alongthe Thomson River.

DAY 7 • LONGREACH – WINTONToday our journey takes us to Winton where wewill visit the Waltzing Matilda Centre, theworld’s only attraction dedicated to a song andthe place where Banjo Paterson wrote WaltzingMatilda. This afternoon at Lark Quarry you’lltake a guided tour of the world's only recordedevidence of a dinosaur stampede. You’ll seesome 3,300 footprints made by nearly 200dinosaurs 95 million years ago. Overnight Stay:Boulder Opal Motor Inn.

DAY 8 • WINTON – MOUNT ISAOur first stop today is the Combo Waterhole onthe upper reaches of the Diamantina River. It issaid to be the billabong where the ‘WaltzingMatilda’ swagman camped more than 100years ago and was caught with some‘borrowed’ mutton, thus inspiring the well-

known song. The isolated village of Kynunaseems as though it’s in the middle of nowhereand we’ll stop for a drink at the only hotel, thefamous Blue Heeler Pub. From one legendaryoutback pub to another, we’ll call in at theWalkabout Creek Hotel, known around theworld for its role in the movie CrocodileDundee. In Cloncurry we’ll visit John FlynnPlace Museum. The exhibits here trace theinspirational story of the origins of the RoyalFlying Doctor Service. Our final destinationtoday is Mount Isa, known as the ‘Oasis of theOutback’ nestled among the ochre-red SelwynRanges, on the banks of the Leichhardt River.Two Night Stay: Outback Motel.

DAY 9 • MOUNT ISAAfter breakfast we’ll take a tour around thetown, which concludes with a visit to Outback atIsa. We’ll then join a guided tour of the hugeMount Isa Mine, the world's largest singleproducer of copper, silver, lead and zinc.

DAY 10 • MOUNT ISA – ADEL’S GROVEToday we travel to the Burke and WillsRoadhouse and on to the historic town ofGregory Downs where the old hotel is thecentre of society. We’ll visit the GregoryDowns Pub before our drive to Adel’s Grove,the gateway to Lawn Hill National Park.Two Night Stay: Adel’s Grove.

DAY 11 • ADEL’S GROVEThis morning we travel a short distance to theRiversleigh Fossil Site. This is one of the fewfossil sites around the world that has been listedas a World Heritage site. We then continue ouradventure in Lawn Hill National Park where youwill take a guided walk, swim in the spring-fedwaters of the gorge or explore aboard a canoe.We’ll return to Adel’s Grove in time to relax withfriends before dinner.

DAY 12 • ADEL’S GROVE – NORMANTONOur drive today takes us north across theSavannah grasslands to the gulf town ofBurketown. We’ll then continue to LeichhardtRiver which was named after the greatexplorer who went missing without a trace. Wewill then continue to the gulf town of Karumba,where a huge prawn trawling fleet is based. Itwas near Karumba that the Bourke and Willsexpedition reached the top end of Australia.Overnight Stay: Gulfland Motel.

OUTBACK QUEENSLAND ADVENTURE16 days Brisbane to Cairns

38

Gulflander Train, NormantonCobbold Gorge

BRISBANE

EMERALD

ROMA 1

Carnarvon National Park

1CARNARVON GORGE

1LONGREACH

WINTON 1

2

COBBOLD GORGE

CAIRNS

UNDARA1


1

1


ADEL’SGROVE

2

MOUNT ISA

Leich

hard

t Ri

ver

Thompson

River

2

1

1

QUEENSLAND

NORMANTON

Lark Quarry

DAY 13 • NORMANTON – COBBOLD GORGEThis morning we board the Gulflander Train for aride back in time. This historic little train takesyou on a journey with a difference through thetough and inhospitable Gulf Country to CrittersCamp. Your driver is waiting to take you to thehistoric village of Croydon, which was once abooming gold town. We’ll then travel toGeorgetown and visit the Terrestrial Centre. Hereyou will view the multi award-winning Ted ElliottMineral Collection that contains over 4,500mineral specimens in a myriad of fascinatingcolours and shapes from the region andthroughout the world. Today’s destination isCobbold Gorge. Overnight Stay: Cobbold Gorge.

DAY 14 • COBBOLD GORGE – UNDARACobbold Gorge is hidden away within ruggedsandstone formations and is extremely narrow,closing to a mere 2 metres wide in places, withspectacular 30 metre cliffs on either side. Theoverall length of the gorge is about 6 kilometresand consists of a series of water holes and rockfalls. We’ll board a flat bottom boat thismorning for a guided cruise along the gorge.After lunch at the resort we’ll drive to Undaraon the eastern edge of the ruggedly beautifulGulf Savannah region. After dinner tonight, havesome fun around the campfire swapping tales.Overnight Stay: Undara Lava Lodge, in uniquespecially restored railway carriages.

DAY 15 • UNDARA – CAIRNSThis morning enjoy a guided tour of the UndaraLava Tubes, formed some 190,000 years ago. Wethen farewell Undara and drive to the tablelandsfarming town of Atherton. This afternoon we’llenjoy spectacular views as we drive through therainforests of the Great Dividing Range down tothe coast and Cairns. This evening’s dinner istime to relive many memorable holiday momentsand say farewell to your crew and fellowtravellers. Overnight Stay: Cairns Hilton Hotel.

DAY 16 • CAIRNSThis morning after breakfast you’ll betransferred to the airport for your homeboundflight.

39

Sunset Dinner Cruise, Thomson River

Opportunity to add the Cape YorkExpedition tour to this holiday - see pages34-37 for itinerary.

Mar 30Apr 29

Mar 29Apr 28Jun 26


16 Day Tour Tour Code: OBCBrisbane to Cairns $5,995Single Supplement $1,010

All prices are per person, twin share in AUD. Fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees, accommodation and meals asspecified. Tour itinerary and pricing valid from 30 March 2009 to 31 March 2010. Enquire for itinerary and pricing that fall outsidethis period. Flights are not included. For full terms and conditions, please see pages 58-59.

2009 2010


1

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS• Welcome dinner and show at the Australian Outback Spectacular presented by

R.M.Williams on the Gold Coast • Visit the famous Australia Zoo and get close to the animals• Guided tour of the Big Rig Oil Patch and learn about the unique history of this multi-

billion dollar industry • Stay overnight at Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge and enjoy guided walks into

spectacular Carnarvon Gorge • Fossick for gems at the Big Sapphire near Emerald • Visit the Qantas Founders Outback Museum and learn about the history and

achievements of Australian aviation • Discover the history of this country’s brave explorers at the Longreach Australian

Stockman’s Hall of Fame • Visit the Waltzing Matilda Centre in Winton, the place where Banjo Patterson wrote

Waltzing Matilda • Guided tour of the world’s only recorded evidence of a dinosaur stampede at

Lark Quarry • Visit John Flynn Place Museum in Cloncurry for an insight into the beginnings of the

Royal Flying Doctor Service • Stay 2 nights in Mount Isa and explore this well known mining town• Guided surface mine tour of Mount Isa Mines • Explore Lawn Hill National Park on a guided walk• Visit the World Heritage listed Riversleigh Fossil Site • Travel through the wetlands to Karumba • Guided cruise through spectacular Cobbold Gorge • Ride aboard the historic Gulflander Train from Normanton to Critters Camp • Guided tour of the 190,000 year old Undara Volcanic Lava Tubes• Overnight stay at the Cairns Hilton Hotel, ideally located in the heart of Cairns and on

the waterfront

ACCOMMODATIONWe have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles on this tour ranging from 3.5 to 5 starhotels. Each location has been chosen to make the most of what each region has to offer.• Day 10 & 11 – your 2 night stay at Adel’s Grove is in basic but comfortable permanent

safari tents with shared facilities. The standard and style of tents may vary• Day 14 – your overnight stay at Undara Lava Lodge will be in unique specially restored

railway carriages with some carriages having shared facilities

Sunset Dinner Cruise, Thomson River

DAY 1 • CAIRNSOn arrival at Cairns airport you will be met andtransferred to your hotel. Enjoy some free timeexploring the city. This evening meet yourOutback Discovery crew and get together withfellow travellers during your welcome dinner.Overnight Stay: Cairns Hilton Hotel.

DAY 2 • CAIRNS – UNDARAThis morning we’ll enjoy spectacular views aswe leave Cairns and the coast and drive into therainforests of the Great Dividing Range. Wecross the tablelands to the farming town ofAtherton and drive to Undara on the easternedge of the ruggedly beautiful Gulf Savannahregion. This afternoon enjoy a guided tour of theUndara Lava Tubes, formed some 190,000 yearsago. After dinner tonight, have some fun aroundthe campfire swapping tales. Overnight Stay:Undara Lava Lodge, in unique specially restoredrailway carriages.

DAY 3 • UNDARA – COBBOLD GORGE Start the day with a true Aussie breakfastsurrounded by birds and the bush beforeleaving Undara and driving to Georgetown. Atthe Terrestrial Centre you will view the multiaward–winning Ted Elliott Mineral Collection.This collection, which is all the work of oneman, contains over 4,500 mineral specimens ina myriad of fascinating colours and shapesfrom the region and throughout the world. Onto Cobbold Gorge for lunch. The gorge ishidden away within rugged sandstoneformations and is extremely narrow, closing toa mere 2 metres wide in places, withspectacular 30 metre cliffs on either side. Theoverall length of the gorge is about 6kilometres and consists of a series of waterholes and rock falls. We’ll board a flat bottomboat this afternoon for a guided cruise alongthe gorge. Overnight Stay: Cobbold Gorge.

DAY 4 • COBBOLD GORGE – NORMANTON This morning we travel to the historic village ofCroydon, which was once a booming gold town.We will have lunch in Croydon and thencontinue to the gulf town of Karumba, where ahuge prawn trawling fleet is based. It was nearKarumba that the Bourke and Wills expeditionreached the top end of Australia. We’ll stop forrefreshments in Karumba before driving toNormanton. Overnight Stay: Gulfland Motel.

DAY 5 • NORMANTON – ADEL’S GROVE This morning we board the Gulflander Train fora ride back in time. This historic little train takesyou on a journey with a difference through thetough and inhospitable Gulf Country to CrittersCamp. Your driver is waiting to take you toLeichhardt River, which was named after thegreat explorer who went missing without atrace. After lunch we’ll cross the Savannahgrasslands to the gulf town of Burketown and onto the historic town of Gregory Downs. We’ll visitthe Gregory Downs Pub before our drive toAdel’s Grove, the gateway to Lawn Hill NationalPark and Riversleigh Fossil Site. Two Night Stay:Adel’s Grove.

DAY 6 • ADEL’S GROVEThis morning we travel a short distance to theRiversleigh Fossil Site. This is one of the fewfossil sites around the world that has been listedas World Heritage. We then continue ouradventure in Lawn Hill National Park where youwill take a guided walk, swim in the spring-fedwaters of the gorge or explore aboard a canoe.We’ll return to Adel’s Grove in time to relax withfriends before dinner.

DAY 7 • ADEL’S GROVE – MOUNT ISA Today we travel to the Burke and WillsRoadhouse and then on to Cloncurry for a visit tothe John Flynn Place Museum. The exhibits heretrace the inspirational story of the origins of theRoyal Flying Doctor Service. Our final destinationtoday is Mount Isa, known as the ‘Oasis of theOutback’ nestled among the ochre-red SelwynRanges, on the banks of the Leichhardt River.Two Night Stay: Outback Motel.

DAY 8 • MOUNT ISAAfter breakfast we’ll take a tour around thetown, which concludes with a visit to Outback atIsa. We’ll then join a guided tour of the hugeMount Isa Mine, the world's largest singleproducer of copper, silver, lead and zinc.

DAY 9 • MOUNT ISA – WINTON Our first stop today is Cloncurry for morning tea,after which we’ll call in at the legendaryWalkabout Creek Hotel, known around the worldfor its role in the movie Crocodile Dundee. Theisolated village of Kynuna seems as though it’sin the middle of nowhere and we’ll stop for avisit at the only hotel, the famous Blue Heeler

Pub. Before reaching Winton we travel to theCombo Waterhole on the upper reaches of theDiamantina River. It is said to be the billabongwhere the ‘Waltzing Matilda’ swagman campedmore than 100 years ago and was caught withsome ‘borrowed’ mutton, thus inspiring thewell-known song. Overnight Stay: Boulder OpalMotor Inn.

DAY 10 • WINTON – LONGREACH This morning at Lark Quarry you’ll take aguided tour of the world's only recordedevidence of a dinosaur stampede. You’ll seesome 3,300 footprints made by nearly 200dinosaurs 95 million years ago. We will alsovisit the Waltzing Matilda Centre in Winton, theworld’s only attraction dedicated to a song andthe place where Banjo Paterson wrote WaltzingMatilda. This afternoon our journey takes us toLongreach. Two Night Stay: Albert Park Motel.

DAY 11 • LONGREACHOur day starts at the Qantas Founders OutbackMuseum to inspect the original 1922 hangarused by departing flights, the 747-200 aircraftand the first ever Qantas jet passenger aircraftregistered in Australia, the Boeing 707. At theAustralian Stockman's Hall of Fame you’lldiscover the history of this country’s brave andintrepid explorers, the stockmen and aboriginesof pioneering Australia. This afternoon you’llvisit 'Longway Station', a 34,000 acre workingsheep and livestock grazing station, and learnabout land care in the outback. This eveningenjoy a spectacular sunset dinner cruise alongthe Thomson River.

DAY 12 • LONGREACH – EMERALD From Longreach we drive to Barcaldine, thescene of the Great Shearers' Strike in 1891 thatled to the formation of the Australian LaborParty. The Australian Workers Heritage Centrerecords these historic events and your visituncovers the rich heritage, history andtraditions of all working Australians. Then on toAlpha where many town buildings are adornedwith murals painted by local artists. At Anakieyou can fossick for sapphires and other prizedgems at the Big Sapphire before we travel totoday’s destination, Emerald. Despite its name,there are no emeralds to be found in Emeraldbut it is surrounded by rich gemfields.Overnight Stay: Emerald Maraboon Motor Inn.

OUTBACK QUEENSLAND ADVENTURE16 days Cairns to Brisbane

40

Australian Outback Spectacular presented by R.M. WilliamsWaltzing Matilda Centre, WintonWaltzing Matilda Centre, Winton

BRISBANE

EMERALD

ROMA 1

Carnarvon National Park

1CARNARVON GORGE

1LONGREACH

WINTON 1

2

COBBOLD GORGE

CAIRNS

UNDARA1


1

1


ADEL’SGROVE

2

MOUNT ISA

Leich

hard

t Ri

ver

Thompson

River

2

1

1

QUEENSLAND

NORMANTON

Lark Quarry

DAY 13 • EMERALD – CARNARVON GORGE At Carnarvon National Park we’ll check in toour accommodation, have lunch and then takea guided walk into the gorge. Carnarvon Gorgehas over 25 kilometres of walking tracks criss-crossing fresh water streams, meanderingthrough lush tropical gorges with sandstonecliffs, passing by tranquil waterfalls anddelving into the deep rock crevices thatconceal many significant Aboriginal art sites.The surrounding park boasts unique wildlife,spectacular scenery and incredible bushwalks. Overnight Stay: Carnarvon GorgeWilderness Lodge.

DAY 14 • CARNARVON GORGE – ROMA After breakfast we’ll take another walk in theNational Park before travelling to the charmingtown of Injune. Our destination today is Roma,where in 1863 Samuel Bassett brought vinecuttings to the town and started Queensland’sfirst wine-making enterprise. The town is alsofamous for its part in Australia’s oil and gasindustry and this afternoon we’ll visit the BigRig. Learn about the unique history of theindustry from the first discovery of petroleum,through the boom and bust years of oil and gasexploration and on to today's multi-billion dollarindustry. Overnight Stay: Roma Explorers Inn.

DAY 15 • ROMA – BRISBANE We drive east across the Darling Downs toChinchilla and Toowoomba and over the GreatDividing Range to Brisbane. After checking in toour hotel we head south to the Gold Coast latethis afternoon. This evening you’ll attend theAustralian Outback Spectacular presented byR.M. Williams – a stirring presentation ofoutback life with a great cast, 31 talentedhorses and brilliant special effects. During theshow you’ll be served a three course Aussiedinner with beer, wine and soft drinks.Overnight Stay: Hotel Ibis Brisbane.

DAY 16 • BRISBANEThis morning we visit Australia Zoo. You will seeexciting wildlife shows, chat with friendlyzookeepers and get close to many of thedifferent animals. After lunch you’ll betransferred to Brisbane airport for yourhomebound flight (please book flights to leaveafter 3.00pm).

41

Apr 14Sep 19

Apr 13Jun 10Sep 18


16 Day Tour Tour Code: OCBCairns to Brisbane $5,995Single Supplement $1,010

All prices are per person, twin share in AUD. Fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees, accommodation and meals asspecified. Tour itinerary and pricing valid from 01 April 2009 to 31 March 2010. Enquire for itinerary and pricing that fall outsidethis period. Flights are not included. For full terms and conditions, please see pages 58-59.

2009 2010


1

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS• Overnight stay at the Cairns Hilton Hotel, ideally located in the heart of Cairns and on

the waterfront• Guided tour of the 190,000 year old Undara Volcanic Lava Tubes• Ride aboard the historic Gulflander Train from Normanton to Critters Camp • Guided cruise through spectacular Cobbold Gorge • Travel through the wetlands to Karumba • Visit the World Heritage listed Riversleigh Fossil Site • Explore Lawn Hill National Park on a guided walk• Guided surface mine tour of Mount Isa Mines • Stay 2 nights in Mount Isa and explore this well known mining town• Visit John Flynn Place Museum in Cloncurry for an insight into the beginnings of the

Royal Flying Doctor Service • Guided tour of the world’s only recorded evidence of a dinosaur stampede at

Lark Quarry • Visit the Waltzing Matilda Centre in Winton, the place where Banjo Patterson wrote

Waltzing Matilda • Discover the history of this country’s brave explorers at the Longreach Australian

Stockman’s Hall of Fame • Fossick for gems at the Big Sapphire near Emerald • Stay overnight at Carnarvon Gorge Wilderness Lodge and enjoy guided walks into

spectacular Carnarvon Gorge • Guided tour of the Big Rig Oil Patch and learn about the unique history of this multi-

billion dollar industry • Welcome dinner and show at the Australian Outback Spectacular presented by

R.M.Williams on the Gold Coast • Visit the famous Australia Zoo and get close to the animals

ACCOMMODATIONWe have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles on this tour ranging from 3.5 to 5 starhotels. Each location has been chosen to make the most of what each region has to offer.• Day 2 – your overnight stay at Undara Lava Lodge will be in unique specially restored

railway carriages with some carriages having shared facilities• Day 5 & 6 – your 2 night stay at Adel’s Grove is in basic but comfortable permanent

safari tents with shared facilities. The standard and style of tents may vary

Carnarvon Gorge

DAY 1 • PERTHThis evening meet your Outback Discoverycrew and get together with fellow travellersduring your welcome dinner. Overnight Stay:Holiday Inn Burswood.

DAY 2 • PERTH – KALGOORLIESettle in aboard your Outback Discovery vehiclethis morning on the first day of our crossing ofthe world’s largest island continent. We’ll drivewest into the wheat belt and through the smalltown of Meckering that made world news inOctober 1968 when an earthquake measuring6.9 on the Richter scale caused widespreaddestruction but no loss of life. At the CunderdinMuseum you’ll see displays depicting theearthquake and many artefacts depicting thepioneering spirit of the district. Continuing onwe’ll travel through Coolgardie to Kalgoorlie fora short tour of the town and infamous HayStreet. Overnight Stay: Rydges Kalgoorlie.

DAY 3 • KALGOORLIE – NORSEMANThe gold rush town of Kalgoorlie includes the‘Golden Mile’, said to have been the richestsquare mile of gold bearing earth in the world.At the Miners Hall of Fame you will have theopportunity to pan for gold, watch how gold ispoured or even put on your hard hat and godown a mineshaft. At the nickel mining town ofKambalda we will visit Red Hill Lookout for apanoramic view of the nickel operations andLake Lefroy, one of many huge salt lakes in thewest of the Nullarbor Plain. Our destination isNorseman on the edge of the Nullarbor.Overnight Stay: Great Western Motel.

DAY 4 • NORSEMAN – EUCLAToday is the start of our two day journeyacross the Eyre Highway. Our first stop isBalladonia. In July 1979 pieces of Skylabcrashed to earth and at the Balladonia Hotel’sMuseum we’ll see memorabilia and actualdebris from Skylab. From Balladonia weround a bend that marks the start of thelongest straight stretch of road on earth, justunder 150 kilometres in length. We’ll take abreak at Cocklebiddy and continue on toMadura where the road descends steeply andis bounded by an escarpment to the north andthe seas of the Great Australian Bight to thesouth. Overnight Stay: Amber Hotel/Motel.

DAY 5 • EUCLA – STREAKY BAYThe adventure continues today as we cross theSouth Australian border to the mostpicturesque section of the Nullarbor trip. Formany kilometres the country to our left isendless flat saltbush and to our right sheercliffs drop into the sea. We’ll stop at the Head ofthe Bight to see ancient cliffs ranging in heightfrom 40-70 metres above the poundingSouthern Ocean. The landscape begins tochange and sheep properties start to appearuntil we reach Ceduna at the end of theNullarbor Plain. Overnight Stay: Streaky BayHotel Motel.

DAY 6 • STREAKY BAY – PORT LINCOLNThis morning we drive to Point LabattConservation Park to a cliff top platform whereyou’ll view a mainland breeding colony ofAustralian sea lions. We’ll continue along theEyre Peninsula passing through Elliston, apretty coastal town situated on the shores ofWaterloo Bay. With a harbour three times thesize of Sydney, Port Lincoln is today’sdestination. Overnight Stay: Port Lincoln Hotel.

DAY 7 • PORT LINCOLN – ADELAIDEToday we travel along the coastline of the EyrePeninsula and Spencer Gulf. We pass throughquiet coastal towns of Tumby Bay, Arno Bay andCowell. We will continue through towns of PortAugusta and Port Wakefield before arriving inSouth Australia's capital, Adelaide. Our driveinto the city passes generous boulevards,historic churches and elegant architecturewhich reflect South Australia's strong Europeanheritage. Overnight Stay: Adelaide Hilton.(Clients on the 11 Day tour join the tour thisevening. Tour Code: OAS.)

DAY 8 • ADELAIDE – KANGAROO ISLAND(Clients on the 8 Day tour depart the tour thismorning after breakfast. Tour Code: OPA.)This morning we’ll visit the lookout onMontefiore Hill, site of the life size bronzestatue of Adelaide’s founding father, ColonelWilliam Light. Then we’ll drive to the trendycoastal suburb of Glenelg. We continue to thewine-growing area of McLaren Vale wherewe’ll stop for wine tasting and lunch. At CapeJervis we’ll board the ferry to Penneshaw onKangaroo Island. Two Night Stay: KangarooIsland Seafront Resort.

DAY 9 • KANGAROO ISLANDKangaroo Island is home to a breathtakingdiversity of natural environments, secludedbeaches, charming hamlets and denseforests. We’ll spend the day with a local guidewho will give us an insight into life on thissouthern island. Our encounters with theisland’s wildlife will include a walk amongstsea lions lolling on the beach and a visit toCape De Couedic Lighthouse to see NewZealand fur seals frolicking in the SouthernOcean swell. Tonight we’ll watch penguinsreturning to their burrows after their dailyfishing expeditions (colony numbers may varydepending on the season).

DAY 10 • KANGAROO ISLAND – TANUNDAWe return to the mainland by ferry this morningand drive to Victor Harbour. We’ll then continueto the Mount Lofty Ranges and the village ofHahndorf, one of the Adelaide Hills’ most famoustowns. Afterwards we’ll enjoy wine tasting atsome of the Barossa Valley’s well knownwineries. Overnight Stay: Barossa Motor Lodge.

DAY 11 • TANUNDA – WILPENA POUNDToday we farewell the wine country and departfor the Flinders Ranges and the outback. On theway we’ll call in at the historic copper miningtown of Burra where a local guide will escortyou on a tour of the town. Continuing due northwe pass through Peterborough and Orroroo,after which you’ll see the beginnings of thebeautifully coloured ridges of the FlindersRanges. From here we follow the line of theranges to Wilpena Pound. Overnight Stay:Wilpena Pound Resort.

DAY 12 • WILPENA POUND – ARKAROOLAWilpena Pound is the centrepiece of the FlindersRanges National Park, recognised as one of thefinest landscapes in Australia. It is rich inwildlife that have adapted well to the ruggedmountains and gorges. After breakfast we’lltake a short transfer up the ridge forspectacular views across the pound. We visit theold mining town of Blinman. The crumblingruins of old cottages and the Blinman mine nowform an historic town set in a sparse hillylandscape. We continue on to ArkaroolaWilderness Sanctuary. Two Night Stay:Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary and Resort.

ACROSS THE NULLARBOR8/11/17 days

42

Cape de Couedic, Kangaroo IslandEyre Highway near Eucla

Sydney

Flinders RangesNational Park

WILPENA POUND

WEST WYALONG

Gammon RangesNational Park

Lake Menindee

1

Blue MountainsNational Park

PERTH

KALGOORLIE

NORSEMANGreat Australian Bight

Eyre Highway

Nullarbor Plain

KANGAROOISLAND

2

Tumby Bay

11

EUCLA 1

1

STREAKY BAY

PORT LINCOLN

1Lake Lefroy

1

BROKEN HILL

2

ARKAROOLA

Nullarbor National Park

Lake Frome

Head of Bight

1 ADELAIDE

NEW SOUTH WALES

WESTERN AUSTRALIASOUTH AUSTRALIA

1 TANUNDA

1

2

DAY 13 • ARKAROOLAToday is a day of adventure and exploration.Travelling in a specially constructed open-top4WD vehicle, you’ll take a guided Ridgetop Tourof some of the most spectacularly ruggedcountry on earth. Our local tour guides willshare their knowledge of Arkaroola's 1,600million year geological history as you navigatethe steep slopes of the famous Ridgetop Track.After dinner take in the millions of stars at theArkaroola Astronomical Observatory.

DAY 14 • ARKAROOLA – BROKEN HILLWe drive south across the flood plains of oneof Australia's many large salt lakes, LakeFrome. As we make our way across FromeDowns Station, we’ll go through the longestmanmade structure on earth ‘The Dog Fence’,built to stop dingoes savaging sheep flocks.We’ll travel along the Barrier Highway intoNew South Wales and on to Broken Hill, site ofthe world’s richest deposits of silver, lead andzinc which led to the establishment of BHP.Two Night Stay: Silver Haven Motor Inn.

DAY 15 • BROKEN HILLToday we start at the outback ghost town ofSilverton. Spend time strolling around therestored gaol, art galleries and the celebratedSilverton Hotel. At the Day Dream Mine you’llget a feel for life back in the early mining days.We then visit the Silver City Mint and Gallery toview the Big Picture, the world's largest acrylicpainting on canvas. Later we’ll take a drive outto the spectacular Living Desert Sculptures.

DAY 16 • BROKEN HILL – WEST WYALONGWe gradually begin to leave the outback formore populated country along interesting backroads through Menindee, Ivanhoe and Hillston.Our destination today is the historic goldmining town of West Wyalong. Overnight Stay:Club Inn Resort.

DAY 17 • WEST WYALONG – SYDNEYAfter we leave West Wyalong, we pass throughthe gold mining town of Grenfel. From the coal-mining town of Lithgow we take the GreatWestern Highway over the Blue Mountains,stopping for photos at Katoomba’s iconic ThreeSisters. We’ll arrive in Sydney late thisafternoon, where it will be time to say farewellto your crew and fellow travellers (please bookyour flights from 7pm onwards).

43

Nights accommodationLand ContentUnsealed RoadFerry

1

All prices are per person, twin share in AUD. Fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees, accommodation and meals asspecified. Additional activities are at own expense and unless otherwise stated must be booked on tour. Tour itinerary and pricingvalid from 01 April 2009 to 31 March 2010. Enquire for itinerary and pricing that fall outside this period. Flights are not included. For full terms and conditions, please see pages 58-59.


17 Day Tour Tour Code: OPASPerth to Sydney $5,995Single Supplement $1,155

8 Day Tour Tour Code: OPAPerth to Adelaide $3,095Single Supplement $550

2009 Oct 12, 14, 19, 232010 Oct 11, 13, 18, 22

11 Day Tour Tour Code: OASAdelaide to Sydney $4,325Single Supplement $710

2009 Oct 18, 20, 25, 292010 Oct 17, 19, 24, 28

17 Day Tour Tour Code: OSAPSydney to Perth $5,995Single Supplement $1,155

11 Day Tour Tour Code: OSADSydney to Adelaide $4,325Single Supplement $710

2009 Oct 072010 Oct 06

8 Day Tour Tour Code: OAPAdelaide to Perth $3,095Single Supplement $550

2009 Oct 162010 Oct 15

Clients also have the option of taking this itinerary in reverse

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS• Guided tour and gold panning at the Miners Hall of Fame in Kalgoorlie• Overnight stay in Norseman which is located on the edge of the Nullarbor Plain and marks the

start of our 2 day adventure across this fascinating land along the Eyre Highway to Streaky Bay • See the fascinating Australian sea lions and great birdlife in their natural habitat at Point

Labatt Conservation Park • Travel along the scenic coastline of the Eyre Peninsula and Spencer Gulf, passing through

many quaint coastal towns • Wine tasting in one of Australia’s better known wine growing regions, McLaren Vale • 2 night stay at the Kangaroo Island Seafront Resort including a guided tour of

Kangaroo Island• Explore the famous wine growing region of the Barossa Valley • Stay overnight at the Wilpena Pound Resort located in the heart of the beautifully coloured

Flinders Ranges National Park • Explore the spectacular rugged slopes of the famous Ridgetop Track on your guided open-

top 4WD adventure during your 2 night stay at the Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary Resort • Take in the millions of stars at the Arkaroola Astronomical Observatory which provides

some of the best viewing conditions in Australia • Stay 2 nights in the mining town of Broken Hill and get a feel for life back in the early

mining days on a guided tour of the Day Dream Mine • Visit the outback ghost town of Silverton and spend time strolling around the restored gaol

and art galleries

ACCOMMODATIONWe have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles on this tour ranging from 3.5 to 5 starhotels. Each location has been chosen to make the most of what each region has to offer.

DAY 1 • SYDNEY - NARRABRIDepart Sydney this morning and travel norththrough the Upper Hunter Region toMuswellbrook, a charming country town whichis surrounded by vineyards and horse studs.Our journey sees us travelling along the NewEngland Highway through quaint rural townssuch as Murrurundi and Gunnedah. Ourdestination today is Narrabri which is situatedin the heart of the Namoi Valley and known forits cotton, beef and wheat production.Overnight Stay: Country Comfort Narrabri.

DAY 2 • NARRABRI – BOURKE This morning we will be entertained andeducated about the world’s most popular fibre ona tour of the modern and impressive AustralianCotton Centre. Head to nearby Culgoora to visitthe amazing Australian Telescope, established bythe CSIRO in 1967, which is also linked to thetelescopes at Coonabarabran, Parkes andTidbinbilla, making it the most powerful in thesouthern hemisphere. Our journey will thencontinue on to the edge of the outback travellingthrough the interesting towns of Wee Waa andWalgett. This evening we will arrive at the historicriver port of Bourke which is situated on theDarling River but surrounded by red dirt plainsand scrub. Overnight Stay: Darling River Motel.

DAY 3 • BOURKE – WHITE CLIFFSToday we will board the paddle vessel PV Jandrafor a relaxing cruise along the Darling Riverbefore driving further inland to Tilpa. Here wewill visit the century old Royal Hotel. Continueon via Wilcannia before arriving at White Cliffs.This remarkable opal mining town, famous for its underground accommodation, will beour destination this evening. Overnight Stay:White Cliffs Underground Motel.

DAY 4 • WHITE CLIFFS – TIBOOBURRADiscover the unique pioneer opal town of WhiteCliffs on a guided tour. Visit the solar powerstation, opal showroom, art gallery and Jock’sPlace, an underground dugout home and mine.We then travel north into the outback joining theSilver City Highway, passing through the smallsettlement of Milparinka before arriving inTibooburra, known to be the most isolated townin New South Wales and which was establishedat the height of the gold rush. Overnight Stay:Granites Motel.

DAY 5 • TIBOOBURRA – INNAMINCKAToday we enter South Australia, crossing theborder at Cameron Corner that marks thejunction of New South Wales, South Australia andQueensland. Here we pass through the longestmanmade structure on earth ‘The Dog Fence’.We drive through the Strzelecki Desert to theStrzelecki Track and past the Moomba GasFields. Two Night Stay: Innamincka Hotel.

DAY 6 • INNAMINCKAThis morning we will cross into Queensland andover the Bourke and Wills Bridge before stoppingat the Dig Tree, where Bourke and Wills missedtheir support party by just nine hours. Also seethe resting place of these two explorers as wevisit their graves. Head to an oasis known as‘Callamurra Waterhole’, a beautiful stretch ofwater which has not dried up since it was firstseen by Sturt. Return to our accommodation inInnamincka for dinner this evening.

DAY 7 • INNAMINCKA – BIRDSVILLEOur route today takes us through very remotecountry. We pass Australia’s largest shearingshed at Cordillo Downs and visit the CadegaRuins before arriving at Birdsville. This townbegan life as ‘Diamantina Crossing’ in 1881 andstories of stockmen who passed through thetown on the famous Birdsville Track are part oftown legend. Overnight Stay: Birdsville Hotel.

DAY 8 • BIRDSVILLE – BOULIAThis morning we’re off to the tracks whereBirdsville’s annual race meeting sees thepopulation grow from 120 to 6,000 in two days.Visit the Birdsville Working Museum to look intothe past and see how harness makers,wheelwrights and blacksmiths worked. We thendrive out to the edge of the Simpson Desert fora look at ‘Big Red’. This is the first of over 1,000parallel sand dunes that vehicles must cross toreach the western side of the desert. Travellingvia Bedourie we reach Boulia, today’sdestination which is famous for the Min MinLight. Overnight Stay: Desert Sands Motel.

DAY 9 • BOULIA – JERVOISWe approach the Northern Territory along a dirttrack grandly named the Donohue Highway. Aswe cross into the Northern Territory we stop atthe remote settlement of Tobermorey. We arenow on the Plenty Highway which started as a

stock route used for cattle droving between states.We continue on to the remote location of Jervoiswhere we pull out the tents for a night of camping.Overnight Stay: Jervois Station Camping.

DAY 10 • JERVOIS – ALICE SPRINGSThis morning we’ll travel to Gemtree where youwill fossick for rich red garnets and sparklingzircons. We’ll then join the Stuart Highway, one ofthe world’s longest transcontinental roads, andhead for Alice Springs, Australia’s most famousoutback town. Affectionately known as ’The Alice’,your stay here will leave a lasting impression ofthe local characters and surrounding naturalbeauty. ANZAC Hill offers a panoramic view of thetown and is the starting point for our orientationtour. Three Night Stay: Lasseters Hotel.

DAY 11 • ALICE SPRINGS(Clients on the 11 Day tour depart the tour thismorning after breakfast. Tour Code: OSA.)Enjoy a full day sightseeing tour of Alice Springs.At the School of Distance Education (previouslyknown as the ‘School of the Air ‘) you will see howthe world’s biggest classroom is run. Enjoy a walkthrough different native habitats, see birds of preyin action and observe rare animals in thenocturnal house at the award-winning DesertPark. Visit the Alice Springs Cultural Precinct.Here you can stroll through the originalcemetery where you will find the graves of thegreat Aboriginal artist Albert Namatjira andHarold Bell Lasseter of ‘Lasseters Lost Gold’fame. For aviation enthusiasts, the ConnellanHangar houses memorabilia of this pioneeringairline. We will call in to the Royal Flying DoctorService to learn how this remarkable lifeline forremote areas operates and we’ll visit the OldTelegraph Station.

DAY 12 • ALICE SPRINGSThe magnificent West MacDonnell Ranges is ourdestination today. Our first stop is the grave ofReverend John Flynn, founder of the Royal FlyingDoctor Service. Next we take a short walk intoSimpsons Gap for a chance to sight rare black-footed rock wallabies. Further along the range wewalk into Standley Chasm and on to OrmistonGorge for lunch and a refreshing swim in thewaterhole. To end the day we go to the GosseBluff to see the crater 5 kilometres wide and 150metres high, which was created by a cometcrashing into earth millions of years ago.

GRAND AUSTRALIA11/17/33 days

44

Kata Tjuta, Uluru-Kata Tjuta National ParkMini Palms in the Bungle BunglesMini Palms in the Bungle Bungles

BROOME Geikie GorgeCruise Wolfe Creek Crater

HALLS CREEKBUNGLE BUNGLES

1 12

DARWIN 1

BOURKE

INNAMINCKA

TIBOOBURRA

BIRDSVILLE

BOULIAJERVOIS

1ALICE

SPRINGS

ULURU

KINGS CANYON

RABBIT FLAT

ChambersPillar

2

1

Strzelecki Desert

Standley Chasm4

2

1

1


Sydney

Muswellbrook

1

2

1

MANNING GORGE

HOME VALLEY STATION 2

KATHERINEKUNUNURRA

2

Kakadu National

Park

JABIRU

FITZROY CROSSING

WINDJANA GORGE

1

1

Kata Tjuta

Katherine Gorge Cruise Yellow Waters Billabong CruiseLitchfield

NationalPark

NORTHERN TERRITORY

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

QUEENSLAND

NEW SOUTH WALES

1

111WHITE

CLIFFS

1 NARRABRI

DAY 13 • ALICE SPRINGS – KINGS CANYONBefore we reach Kings Canyon today, we divertfrom the highway to Chambers Pillar. Earlyexplorers used this spectacular rock formationas a navigation aid through remote country.Heading back through Maryvale Cattle Station,we rejoin the Stuart Highway until we turn westalong Ernest Giles Road to Kings Canyon.Overnight Stay: Kings Canyon Resort.

DAY 14 • KINGS CANYON – ULURU This morning enjoy a choice of guided walks.Take in the atmosphere of Kings Canyon on amoderate walk along the canyon floor. Or, ifyou’re feeling more energetic, a walk along therim is also available. Rejoin the coach as wedrive to Kings Creek Station, a working cattleand camel station which is the largest exporterof wild camels in Australia. We then continue onto the million acre cattle station, Curtin Springsbefore arriving at the first of our two night stayin Yulara, a small township purpose-built tocater for visitors to Uluru. Two Night Stay:Desert Gardens Hotel.

DAY 15 • ULURUIt’s an early rise today to see the sun come upover Uluru and then you will have theopportunity to explore this magnificent monolith.You may choose to do the 9.5 kilometre basewalk or stay with your crew who will take youinto special areas to explain their significance tothe local Aboriginal people. Spend some time atthe Cultural Centre before we go to the equallyspectacular Kata Tjuta (Olgas). Once at KataTjuta, you can take a walk between the hugerock domes. No visit to Uluru is complete untilyou see a sunset. Watch the changing colours ofthe mighty monolith during pre-dinner drinksbefore embarking on a unique dining experienceat the award-winning Sounds of Silence dinner.

DAY 16 • ULURU – ALICE SPRINGS This morning you may wish to take an optionalscenic flight over Uluru (own expense). Locatedwhere the Stuart Highway and the LasseterHighway meet, we travel to Erldunda Roadhousebefore arriving in Alice Springs early afternoon.Enjoy some free time to explore Alice Springsbefore returning to the hotel for dinner.Overnight Stay: Lasseters Hotel.

45

DAY 17 • ALICE SPRINGS – RABBIT FLAT(Clients on the 17 Day tour depart the tour thismorning after breakfast. Tour Code: OSAC.)We farewell the Red Centre to drive the legendaryTanami Track, one of Australia’s longest stockroutes. The area is so remote that there are onlytwo roadhouses on the track - Tilmouth Well andRabbit Flat which will be our campsite fortonight. Overnight Stay: Rabbit Flat RoadhouseCamping.

DAY 18 • RABBIT FLAT – HALLS CREEKFlanked by the Tanami Desert and the GreatSandy Desert, we’ll come to the junction of theCanning Stock Route. The Canning was once afavourite route for drovers and is now used byadventurous four-wheel drivers. We’ll thencontinue to Wolfe Creek Crater, the secondlargest meteorite crater on earth. A short walk tothe rim of the crater will reveal an expansive viewof the perfectly round impact site, which is 60metres deep and nearly a kilometre wide. We’llspend the night in Halls Creek, site of WesternAustralia’s first commercial gold discovery.Overnight Stay: Kimberley Hotel.

DAY 19 • HALLS CREEK – BUNGLE BUNGLESThis morning explore the old stone buildings atthe Old Halls Creek town site and the ‘Great Wallof China’, a spectacular formation of erodedquartz rock. Our vehicle turns off the GreatNorthern Highway and into World Heritage listedPurnululu National Park, home to one of WesternAustralia’s most fascinating landmarks, theBungle Bungle range. We’ll head to the southernend of the Park for a walk into Cathedral Gorge,an acoustically magnificent natural amphitheatre.Two Night Stay: Bellburn Safari Camp.

DAY 20 • BUNGLE BUNGLESThis morning there is the opportunity of taking anoptional helicopter flight over the magnificentBungle Bungle range (at own expense). Today wedrive to the northern end of the Bungle Bunglerange for a memorable day of walks into two ofthe Park’s best attractions. The first walk is in toEchidna Chasm through a narrow gorge thatreveals something new at every bend, it’s likewalking through a huge gap in the landscape withsunlight bouncing off the flaming red hues of therock walls. After lunch we set off along a creekbed into Mini Palms. A climb through rocky

outcrops brings you to a platform atop a scenicamphitheatre for views of verdant palm trees andthe valley beyond.

DAY 21 • BUNGLE BUNGLES – FITZROY CROSSINGWe leave Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) NationalPark this morning and rejoin the GreatNorthern Highway to Fitzroy River Lodgewhich is located on the banks of one of thehighest volume rivers on earth and where wewill set up camp for the night. Overnight Stay:Fitzroy River Lodge Camping.

DAY 22 • FITZROY CROSSING – BROOMEThis morning relax on a cruise through thesanctuary that is Geikie Gorge, where 30 metresteep limestone walls laid down over a period of50 million years were formed by fossilised coralreefs. After the cruise we head west along theGreat Northern Highway. Our route along thenorthern edge of The Great Sandy Desert isdotted with the unusually shaped Boab trees.We’ll cross the Fitzroy River that is almost dry atthis time of year, but transforms into a mightytorrent over 10 kilometres wide during the wetseason. In Broome there will be a brieforientation tour before you check in to your hotel.Two Night Stay: Cable Beach Club Resort.

DAY 23 • BROOMEThis morning enjoy a tour of the sights ofBroome. Stop at Gantheaume Point for a greatphoto opportunity looking back across CableBeach. We then stop at the Broome Jetty beforewe visit the Japanese Cemetery, a testament tothe dangerous early days of the pearling industryas over 900 divers are buried here. View the OldCourthouse and enjoy a tour at the PearlLuggers’ Museum where you will learn of theperils of the deep and what made the pearldivers life so hazardous. This afternoon, wanderthrough the old buildings in China Town wheremany indigenous art galleries and pearlshowrooms can be found. There is also theopportunity of taking an optional scenic flightover the picturesque Buccaneer Archipelago (atown expense).

CONTINUED NEXT PAGE


1

Katherine GorgeKatherine Gorge

46

Relaxing at Manning GorgeEchidna Chasm

DAY 24 • BROOME – WINDJANA GORGEWe leave Broome for Derby this morning. On ourway into town we will visit the famous BoabPrison Tree that for many years was used bypolice as a convenient lock-up for prisoners. Thisafternoon we join the famous Gibb River Road,originally a stock route that was upgraded to carrygiant road trains loaded with cattle. At WindjanaGorge a large population of Johnston fresh watercrocodiles inhabit the water hole. We will set upcamp before taking a leisurely walk into the gorgeto spot some crocodiles basking in the sun. As thesun’s last rays light up the mountain range, enjoya drink with your fellow travellers. Overnight Stay:Windjana Gorge Camping.

DAY 25 • WINDJANA GORGE – MANNING GORGEAfter packing up the tents we will take you toTunnel Creek. Here you will enjoy a walk intoWestern Australia’s oldest cave system. Bell Gorgeis one of the most picturesque gorges of the WestKimberley where swimming, photography,bushwalking and bird watching can be enjoyed. Wewill then continue along the Gibb River Road. Theday will end at Manning Gorge where after settingup camp we’ll enjoy dinner under the stars.Overnight Stay: Manning Gorge Camping.

DAY 26 • MANNING GORGE – HOME VALLEY STATION – KIMBERLEYThere are very few populated areas betweenManning Gorge and Home Valley Station, sotoday we will take in the sights and enjoy a picnic along the way. As we travel on, the redescarpment of the Cockburn Range willdominate the landscape and will eventually leadus to Home Valley Station, a working cattlestation spread over 700,000 acres of untamedKimberley wilderness. Overnight Stay:Home Valley Station Homestead.

DAY 27 • HOME VALLEY STATION –KUNUNURRAThis morning enjoy a guided tour of this part ofthe rugged Kimberley. Visit the mighty PentecostRiver, explore the vast and ancient sandstonecliffs of Bindoola Gorge and take a refreshingswim in the clear waters of the Bindoola Pools.Your Aboriginal guide will share with you thehistory and indigenous involvment that surroundHome Valley’s operations. We then reboard ourcoach to follow the Cockburn Range before

park. We then drive on to Kakadu National Park,20,000 square kilometres of tropical wilderness,savannah woodland, ancient escarpments andinhabited by a multitude of flora and fauna. A visitto the excellent Bowali Visitors’ Centre willprovide you with plenty of information about thiscomplex region. Depending on time andavailability you might choose to take a scenicflight over the wetlands of Kakadu (at ownexpense). Overnight Stay: Kakadu Lodge Caravan Park Camping.

DAY 31 • JABIRU – DARWIN This morning enjoy a cruise on the YellowWaters Billabong where it is possible to seeestuarine crocodiles in their natural habitat.One third of Australia's bird species isrepresented in Kakadu National Park, with atleast 60 species found in these wetlands.Whistling ducks, jabiru, brolga and magpiegeese are the most abundant. Then it’s ontoUbirr to view Aboriginal rock art galleries thatdate back thousands of years. After a climb upon to the escarpment you will be rewarded withpanoramic views you’ll never forget. In theheart of crocodile, buffalo and barramundicountry, we’ll stop briefly at the quirky BarkHut Inn. Our journey then takes us to the laid-back tropical city of Darwin. Two Night Stay:Crowne Plaza Hotel.

DAY 32 • DARWIN – LITCHFIELD NATIONALPARK – DARWINWe’ll spend our last touring day in LitchfieldNational Park where numerous waterfallscascade from a sandstone plateau called the‘Tabletop Range’. View intriguing magnetictermite mounds. We then travel to theextraordinarily beautiful Wangi Falls for thechance to swim in the pool at the base of thefalls. We’ll spend the afternoon at the TerritoryWildlife Park where you can get close to thebirdlife in the dome aviary or walk through theaquarium tunnel as barramundi and turtles swimoverhead. The majority of fauna found in the TopEnd is represented in this Park which covers 400hectares. Our dinner this evening is time to sayfarewell to your crew and fellow travellers.


reaching the Cambridge Gulf and the port ofWyndham. A visit here is not complete withouttaking in the panoramic views of the region atthe Five Rivers Lookout. You will see for milesout across the Cambridge Gulf and the fiverivers that flow into it - the Ord, Pentecost,Durack, King and Forrest. Continuing toKununurra we will follow the Carr Boyd Range.Kununurra is a vibrant town at the centre of thefertile Ord River Irrigation Scheme which shipshuge volumes of fruit and fresh produce toAustralian and overseas markets. Two NightStay: Kununurra Lakeside Resort.

DAY 28 • KUNUNURRATo start this exciting day we visit the Hoochery,the State’s only licensed distillery where rum isproduced from local sugar. We’ll then drive tothe rebuilt homestead of the Durack family,Argyle Downs. After a visit to the homestead thatis now a museum, we cross the dam wall to joina cruise down the spectacular Ord River and intoLake Kununurra.

DAY 29 • KUNUNURRA – KATHERINEToday we leave the Kimberley and WesternAustralia and enter the Northern Territory. Wewill pass by Bullo River Station, made famous bytop-selling author Sara Henderson. On to themighty escarpment country in the Victoria Riverregion, one of the most picturesque areas in theNorthern Territory. We’ll travel through TimberCreek, named in 1855 when the explorerAugustus Gregory used timber from the banksof the creek to repair his expedition’s boat. Nearthe Victoria River Crossing, we’ll pass by theVictoria River Downs Station which was once thelargest land holding on earth. The Victoria River,known by locals as ‘The Vic’, was a key influenceon Aboriginal heritage and today is a lifeline forpastoral properties. When we arrive atKatherine we’ll set up camp for the night.Overnight Stay: Nitmiluk Caravan Park Camping.

DAY 30 • KATHERINE – JABIRUYou’ll agree that our early start is well worth itbecause the still of the morning is the best timeof day to cruise through Katherine Gorge. Thecruise takes in two of thirteen gorges carvedthrough ancient sandstone by the KatherineRiver. At the Nitmiluk Visitors’ Centre you’ll seeinformative displays outlining the geology,landscape and Aboriginal history of the national

Echidna Chasm

The Living Desert Sculptures, Broken HillRoad sign near Alice Springs

All prices are per person, twin share in AUD. Fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees,accommodation and meals as specified. Additional activities are at own expense and unlessotherwise stated must be booked on tour. Tour itinerary and pricing valid from 01 April 2009 to 31March 2010. Enquire for itinerary and pricing that fall outside this period. Flights are notincluded. For full terms and conditions, please see pages 58-59.


33 Day Tour Tour Code: OSCDSydney to Darwin $11,695Single Supplement $2,260

17 Day Tour Tour Code: OSACSydney to Alice Springs $6,645Single Supplement $1,130OSAC Includes: 4 nights in Alice Springs, 1 night in Kings Canyon and 2 nights in Uluru

11 Day Tour Tour Code: OSASydney to Alice Springs $4,095Single Supplement $650OSA Includes: 1 night in Alice Springs

2009 Apr 132010 Apr 12

2009 Apr 132010 Apr 12

2009 Apr 132010 Apr 12

2009 Sep 172010 Sep 16

2009 Oct 092010 Oct 08

2009 Oct 032010 Oct 02

33 Day Tour Tour Code: ODCSDarwin to Sydney $11,695Single Supplement $2,260

17 Day Tour Tour Code: OCASAlice Springs to Sydney $6,645Single Supplement $1,130OCAS Includes: 4 nights in Alice Springs, 1 night in Kings Canyon and 2 nights in Uluru

11 Day Tour Tour Code: OASSAlice Springs to Sydney $4,095Single Supplement $650OASS Includes: 1 night in Alice Springs


47

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS• Overnight in the outback township of Tibooburra, the most isolated

town in New South Wales • Pass through Cameron Corner where New South Wales, South

Australia and Queensland meet • Travel through the Strzelecki Desert along the Strzelecki Track to

Innamincka • Travel through the Simpson Desert, home to the awesome sand

dune ‘Big Red’ • Fossicking for red garnets and sparkling zircons at Gemtree • Explore Alice Springs including a visit to the Royal Flying Doctor

Service, the award-winning Desert Park and the Old Telegraph Station • Explore the magnificent monolith of Uluru (Ayers Rock) and

spectacular giant domes of Kata Tjuta (Olgas) • Experience unique dining under the stars with views of Uluru and

Kata Tjuta at the Sounds of Silence dinner • Take in the atmosphere of Kings Canyon with a walk along the rim

of the canyon or along the canyon floor • Travel along the legendary Tanami Track, one of Australia’s longest

stock routes • Stay 2 nights in the World Heritage listed Purnululu National Park

at the Bellburn Safari Camp • Walk into the majestic Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm in the

Bungle Bungles • Cruise through the amazing Geikie Gorge • Stay 2 nights at luxurious Cable Beach Club Resort in Broome • Broome sightseeing tour including a tour at the Pearl Luggers’

Museum• Travel the length of the remote Gibb River Road through the centre

of the Kimberley Region • Visit spectacular Windjana Gorge, home to Johnston fresh water

crocodiles • Walk into Tunnel Creek, Western Australia’s oldest cave system • Overnight stay in the Kimberley at Home Valley Station Homestead• Cruise down the spectacular Ord River and into Lake Kununurra • Guided cruise through stunning Katherine Gorge • Explore World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park • Visit beautiful Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park • 2 night stay at the 5 star Crowne Plaza Hotel in Darwin

ON TOUR ACTIVITIESA number of great walks are included on various days throughout thistour. The following walks are considered moderate to difficult and a goodlevel of fitness will especially be required for these walks:• Cathedral Gorge • Echidna Chasm • Mini Palms • Tunnel Creek • Manning Gorge • Bell Gorge • Around Uluru • Kings Canyon • Palm Valley

ACCOMMODATION

We have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles which make themost of what each region has to offer - from 3.5 to 5 star hotels towilderness lodges and tented cabins. During this tour enjoy theexperience of camping 7 of the 32 nights in your own tent. All equipment,including comfortable off the ground beds, will be provided and ourfriendly crew will show you the ropes of how to pitch your own tent.• The following overnight stays are in camp areas which all have toilet

and shower facilities - Day 9, 17, 21, 24, 25, 29 and 30• Day 19 & 20 – your 2 night stay at Bellburn Safari Camp is in

permanently tented safari cabins, comfortable beds and shared facilities

Road sign near Alice Springs

DAY 1 • ALICE SPRINGSWelcome to Alice Springs, Australia’s mostfamous outback town. This evening, meet yourOutback Discovery crew and get together with your fellow travellers during dinner.Three Night Stay: Lasseters Hotel.

DAY 2 • ALICE SPRINGSEnjoy a full day sightseeing tour of Alice Springs.At the School of Distance Education (previouslyknown as the ‘School of the Air‘) you will see howthe world’s biggest classroom is run. Take a walkthrough the different native habitats at theaward-winning Desert Park. Visit the AliceSprings Cultural Precinct and the Old TelegraphStation. We will also call in to the Royal FlyingDoctor Service to learn how this remarkablelifeline for remote areas operates.

DAY 3 • ALICE SPRINGSThe magnificent West MacDonnell Ranges is our destination today. We take a short walk intoSimpsons Gap for a chance to sight rare black-footed rock wallabies. Further along therange we walk into Standley Chasm and on to Ormiston Gorge for a refreshing swim in the waterhole.

DAY 4 • ALICE SPRINGS – KINGS CANYONBefore we reach Kings Canyon today, we divertfrom the highway to Chambers Pillar. Earlyexplorers used this spectacular rock formation asa navigation aid through remote country. Headingback through Maryvale Cattle Station, we rejointhe Stuart Highway until we turn west alongErnest Giles Road to Kings Canyon. OvernightStay: Kings Canyon Resort.

DAY 5 • KINGS CANYON – ULURU This morning enjoy a choice of guided walks.Take in the atmosphere of Kings Canyon on amoderate walk along the canyon floor. Or, ifyou’re feeling more energetic, a walk along therim is also available. Rejoin the coach as wedrive to Kings Creek Station, a working cattleand camel station which is the largest exporterof wild camels in Australia. We then continue onto the million acre cattle station, Curtin Springsbefore arriving at the first of our two night stayin Yulara, a small township purpose-built tocater for visitors to Uluru. Two Night Stay:Desert Gardens Hotel.

DAY 6 • ULURUIt’s an early rise today to see the sun come upover Uluru and then you will have theopportunity to explore this magnificent monolith.Spend some time at the Cultural Centre beforewe go to the spectacular Kata Tjuta (Olgas).Watch the changing colours of the mightymonolith during pre-dinner drinks beforeembarking on a unique dining experience at theaward-winning Sounds of Silence dinner.

DAY 7 • ULURU – ALICE SPRINGS This morning you may wish to take an optionalscenic flight over Uluru (own expense). Locatedwhere the Stuart Highway and the LasseterHighway meet, we travel to Erldunda Roadhousebefore arriving in Alice Springs early afternoon.Enjoy free time to explore Alice Springs beforereturning to the hotel for dinner. (Clients on the 18 Day tour join the tour this evening. Tour Code:OABD.) Overnight Stay: Lasseters Hotel.

DAY 8 • ALICE SPRINGS – RABBIT FLATWe farewell the Red Centre to drive thelegendary Tanami Track, one of Australia’slongest stock routes. The area is so remote thatthere are only two roadhouses on the track -Tilmouth Well and Rabbit Flat which will be ourcampsite for tonight. Overnight Stay: Rabbit FlatRoadhouse Camping.

DAY 9 • RABBIT FLAT – HALLS CREEKFlanked by the Tanami Desert and the GreatSandy Desert, we’ll come to the junction of theCanning Stock Route. We’ll then continue toWolfe Creek Crater, the second largest meteoritecrater on earth. Overnight Stay: Kimberley Hotel.

DAY 10 • HALLS CREEK – BUNGLE BUNGLESThis morning our journey takes us into WorldHeritage listed Purnululu (Bungle Bungle)National Park. We’ll head to the southern end of the Park for a walk into Cathedral Gorge. Two Night Stay: Bellburn Safari Camp.

DAY 11 • BUNGLE BUNGLESThis morning there is the opportunity of takingan optional helicopter flight over the BungleBungle range (at own expense). Today we driveto the northern end of the Bungle Bungle rangefor a memorable day of walks. The first walk isinto Echidna Chasm and then we set off along acreek bed into Mini Palms.

DAY 12 • BUNGLE BUNGLES – FITZROY CROSSINGWe leave Purnululu (Bungle Bungle) NationalPark and rejoin the Great Northern Highway toHalls Creek. Arrive Fitzroy River and set upcamp for the night. Overnight Stay: Fitzroy RiverLodge Camping.

DAY 13 • FITZROY CROSSING – BROOMERelax on a cruise this morning through thesanctuary that is Geikie Gorge. We then headwest along the Great Northern Highway. InBroome there will be a brief orientation tourbefore you check in to your hotel. Two Night Stay:Cable Beach Club Resort.

DAY 14 • BROOMEThis morning enjoy a tour of the sights ofBroome. Stop at Gantheaume Point and then wevisit the Japanese Cemetery and the OldCourthouse. Enjoy a very informativedemonstration at the Pearl Luggers’ Museum.This afternoon there is the opportunity of takingan optional scenic flight over the BuccaneerArchipelago (at own expense).

DAY 15 • BROOME – WINDJANA GORGEWe leave Broome for Derby. On our way intotown we will visit the Boab Prison Tree. Thisafternoon we join the famous Gibb River Road.At Windjana Gorge we will set up camp beforetaking a leisurely walk into the gorge to spotsome crocodiles basking in the sun. OvernightStay: Windjana Gorge Camping.

DAY 16 • WINDJANA GORGE – MANNING GORGEAfter packing up the tents we will take you toTunnel Creek. Here you will enjoy a walk intoWestern Australia’s oldest cave system. We will then continue along the Gibb River Road to Manning Gorge where after setting up camp we’ll enjoy dinner under the stars. Overnight Stay: Manning Gorge Camping.

DAY 17 • MANNING GORGE – HOME VALLEY STATION – KIMBERLEY As we travel through this remote region todaythe red escarpment of the Cockburn Range willdominate the landscape and will eventually leadus to Home Valley Station. Overnight Stay:Home Valley Station Homestead.

RED CENTRE, KIMBERLEY & TOP END18/24 days

48

Chambers PillarDidgeridoos

FITZROYCROSSING

Geikie GorgeCruise

Wolfe Creek Crater

BROOMEHALLS CREEK

BUNGLE BUNGLES

Victoria River

Tana

mi T

rack

1 12

ChamberlainGorgeCruise

Katherine Gorge Cruise

Yellow Waters Billabong Cruise

DARWIN 1

ALICE SPRINGSKINGS CANYON

RABBIT FLAT

Kata Tjuta2

1

Stua

rt H

wy

Lasseter Highway

Tanami Track Standley Chasm

Gosse Bluff

2

1

1



Tanami Desert

Lake Argyle

2

1

1

MANNING GORGE

HOME VALLEY STATION 2

KATHERINEKUNUNURRA

Kakadu National

Park

4

JABIRU

WINDJANA GORGE

ULURUChambers Pillar

1


WESTERN AUSTRALIA

NORTHERN TERRITORY

DAY 18 • HOME VALLEY STATION –KUNUNURRAThis morning enjoy a guided tour of this part ofthe rugged Kimberley. A visit here is notcomplete without taking in the panoramic viewsof the region at the Five Rivers Lookout. Two Night Stay: Kununurra Lakeside Resort.

DAY 19 • KUNUNURRAThis morning we visit the Hoochery, the State’sonly licensed distillery where rum is producedfrom local sugar. We then drive to the rebuilthomestead of the Durack family, Argyle Downs,which is now a museum. We then cross the damwall to join a cruise down the Ord River.

DAY 20 • KUNUNURRA – KATHERINEToday we leave the Kimberley and WesternAustralia and enter the Northern Territory. Wewill travel on to the mighty escarpment countryin the Victoria River region. When we arrive atKatherine we set up camp for the night.Overnight Stay: Nitmiluk Caravan Park Camping.

DAY 21 • KATHERINE – JABIRUThis morning we cruise through Katherine Gorge.We then drive on to Kakadu National Park hometo tropical wilderness, savannah woodland andancient escarpments. Depending on time andavailability you might choose to take a scenicflight over the wetlands of Kakadu (at ownexpense). Overnight Stay: Kakadu Lodge CaravanPark Camping.

DAY 22 • JABIRU – DARWIN This morning enjoy a cruise on the Yellow WatersBillabong.Then it’s on to Ubirr to view Aboriginalrock art galleries that date back thousands ofyears. Two Night Stay: Crowne Plaza Hotel.

DAY 23 • DARWIN – LITCHFIELDNATIONAL PARK – DARWINWe’ll spend our last touring day in LitchfieldNational Park. We’ll travel to the extraordinarilybeautiful Wangi Falls. We’ll spend the afternoonat the Territory Wildlife Park. Our dinner thisevening is time to say farewell to your crew andfellow travellers.


49

Manning Gorge


1

All prices are per person, twin share in AUD. Fully inclusive of all sightseeing, entrance fees, accommodation and meals as specified.Additional activities are at own expense and unless otherwise stated must be booked on tour. Tour itinerary and pricing valid from 01 April 2009 to 31 March 2010. Enquire for itinerary and pricing that fall outside this period. Flights are not included. For full terms and conditions, please see pages 58-59.


24 Day Tour Tour Code: OACDAlice Springs to Darwin $9,065Single Supplement $1,890

18 Day Tour Tour Code: OABDAlice Springs to Darwin $6,265Single Supplement $1,185

2009 Apr 222010 Apr 21

2009 Apr 282010 Apr 27

24 Day Tour Tour Code: ODCADarwin to Alice Springs $9,065Single Supplement $1,890

18 Day Tour Tour Code: ODBADarwin to Alice Springs $6,265Single Supplement $1,185

2009 Sep 172010 Sep 16

2009 Sep 172010 Sep 16


TOUR HIGHLIGHTS• Explore Alice Springs including a visit to the Royal Flying Doctor Service and Desert Park• Stay 2 nights at Desert Gardens Hotel in Uluru • Explore Uluru (Ayers Rock) and the spectacular giant domes of Kata Tjuta (Olgas) • Experience unique dining under the stars at the Sounds of Silence dinner at Uluru• Take in the atmosphere of Kings Canyon on a guided walk• Travel along the legendary Tanami Track, one of Australia’s longest stock routes • Stay 2 nights in the World Heritage listed Purnululu National Park at the Bellburn Safari Camp • Walk into the majestic Cathedral Gorge and Echidna Chasm in the Bungle Bungle range• Cruise through the amazing Geikie Gorge • Stay 2 nights at luxurious Cable Beach Club Resort in Broome • Broome sightseeing tour including a tour at the Pearl Luggers’ Museum• Travel the length of the Gibb River Road through the centre of the Kimberley Region • Visit spectacular Windjana Gorge, home to Johnston fresh water crocodiles • Overnight stay in the rugged Kimberley at Home Valley Station Homestead• Explore World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park • Visit beautiful Wangi Falls in Litchfield National Park

ACCOMMODATIONWe have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles which make the most of what eachregion has to offer - from 3.5 to 5 star hotels to wilderness lodges and tented cabins.During this tour enjoy the experience of camping 6 of the 23 nights in your own tent. Allequipment, including comfortable off the ground beds, will be provided and our friendlycrew will show you the ropes of how to pitch your own tent.• The following overnight stays are in camp areas which all have toilet and shower

facilities – Day 8, 12, 15, 16, 20 and 21• Day 10 & 11 – your 2 night stay at Bellburn Safari Camp is in permanently tented safari

cabins, comfortable beds and shared facilities

ON TOUR ACTIVITIESA number of great walks are included on various days throughout this tour. The followingwalks are considered moderate to difficult and a good level of fitness will especially berequired for these walks:• Cathedral Gorge • Echidna Chasm • Mini Palms • Tunnel Creek • Bell Gorge • Manning Gorge • Bindoola Gorge • Around Uluru • Kings Canyon • Palm Valley

DAY 1 • PERTHOn arrival at Perth airport you will be met andtransferred to your hotel. Enjoy time at leisurebefore meeting your Outback Discovery crewand fellow travelling companions for a welcomedinner. Overnight Stay: Holiday Inn Burswood.

DAY 2 • PERTH – BUSSELTONThis morning enjoy a sightseeing tour ofhistoric Perth Mint. Your tour includes theamazing spectacle of a traditional gold pour,during which pure gold is heated to moltentemperatures and transformed into a solidgold bar. After your tour you’ll enjoy morningtea at the Mint. From Perth we drive to theForest Heritage Centre. Here you can explorewildflowers and timber getters trails andclimb the 11 metre forest canopy viewingplatform and series of walkways. We reboardour vehicle to journey along the spectacularcoastline to Busselton. Two Night Stay:Abbey Beach Resort.

DAY 3 • BUSSELTONTravel to Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse on the mostsouth western tip of Australia, where the Indianand Southern Oceans meet. Your local guidewill explain how the old lighthouse wasmanually operated until 1982 by a clockworkmechanism and kero burner, one of the last inthe world. Visit Caveworks, a fascinating eco-centre with impressive educational displays.Then enter Mammoth Cave to learn about thesespectacular limestone formations. Visit EaglesHeritage which houses the largest collection ofeagles, hawks, falcons and owls in Australia.Finish your day tasting the local wines whichthe Margaret River area is renowned for.

DAY 4 • BUSSELTON – ALBANYTravel south to the famous Gloucester Tree.Standing at 61 metres tall, the tree is from theKarri family, the world’s third tallest treespecies. It was pegged in 1946 so that peoplecould climb it and use it as a watchtower forbushfires. Take a breathtaking ride on thePemberton Tramway through the toweringKarri and Jarrah Forests. Continue on to theValley of the Giants and the Tree Top Walk toview the canopy of the magnificent tingle forest and get a different perspective on theshapes, sounds and movement of the forest.Two Night Stay: Dog Rock Hotel.

DAY 5 • ALBANYThis morning tour Torndirrup National Parkwhere the Southern Ocean has moulded therugged coastline into some spectacular rockformations. One of the most notable is thegranite Natural Bridge and the Gap, where thewaves rush in and out with tremendous ferocity.Experience Albany’s seafaring history atWhaleworld, a fascinating whaling museumlocated in Australia’s last operational whalingstation. This afternoon enjoy a Wilderness andGeology Cruise, you may even spot somemigratory whales breaching.

DAY 6 • ALBANY – ESPERANCEThe imposing jagged peaks of the StirlingRange, combined with serene 360 degreeviews and the breathtaking beauty of theStirling Range National Park, ensures a trulymemorable visit. Continue to the coastal townof Esperance and be amazed by the stunningcoastline with sparkly turquoise water andsqueaky white sand. Overnight Stay: Comfort Inn Bay of Isles.

DAY 7 • ESPERANCE – KALGOORLIEJourney to the gold rush town of Kalgoorlieand follow the Golden Mile, said to have beenthe richest square mile of gold bearing earthin the world. The discovery of gold in theKalgoorlie Goldfields over one hundred yearsago resulted in the influx of thousands, whoscoured the red earth in a frenzied search foralluvial gold. Tour Hannan Street and admire several fine old Victorian-style hotels.At the Miners Hall of Fame you will have theopportunity to pan for gold, watch gold being poured or even put on your hard hat and go down a mineshaft. Overnight Stay:Rydges Kalgoorlie.

DAY 8 • KALGOORLIE – HYDENOnce the centre of Australia's greatest goldrush, Coolgardie is known as the ‘Mother of theWestern Australian Goldfields’ and is now theNation's best preserved gold mining town. We’lldrive along the town’s wide streets lined withgrand stone and brick buildings, and corrugatediron and timber homes that reflect both thewealth and importance of the gold rush. Journeyto Hyden to see the unusual rock formations ofHippo’s Yawn and Wave Rock. Overnight Stay:Wave Rock Hotel Motel.

DAY 9 • HYDEN – PERTHTravel to York, one of Western Australia’s mosthistoric towns and visit the York Motor Museum,recognised as one of the finest privatecollections of veteran, vintage, classic andracing cars in Australia. Housing a collection ofapproximately 150 vehicles, the museumpresents the evolution of motor transport withfine examples of quality and workmanship fromeach era. These range from an 1894 Peugeot tothe Williams FW07 which Australian Alan Jonesdrove on his way to becoming the 1980 WorldGrand Prix Champion. Continue on to Perth.Two Night Stay: Holiday Inn Burswood.

DAY 10 • PERTHThis morning you’ll enjoy the city sights of Perthincluding Government House, Bell Tower andthe WACA Ground. At Kings Park take in thegreat views of the river and city. We thencontinue on to the port city of Fremantle for abrief orientation tour. You’ll get a good overviewof the charm of the historic harbour precinct,the well-preserved architecture, the bustling‘cappuccino strip’ and markets. After some freetime exploring Fremantle, board your cruisevessel for our return to Perth on the Swan River.On the way you’ll savour a delicious buffetlunch. The remainder of the afternoon is yoursto continue exploring the city.

DAY 11 • PERTH – GERALDTON Travel to Nambung National Park, home ofthe Pinnacles. These limestone pillars rise upto 4 metres high out of the sand like ancientruins. The raw material for the limestonecame from seashells which were broughtashore by waves thousands of years ago andthen carried inland by the wind to form highmobile dunes. Over time the elements haveremoved the surrounding sand, leaving thepillars exposed. Then we’ll visit WesternFlora Park and take a tour withinternationally recognised wildflower expertAllan Tinker. Described as the ‘wildflowerwizard’ and having three wildflower speciesnamed after him, your tour will provide aunique insight into the wonders of WesternAustralian wildflowers. Overnight Stay:All Seasons Geraldton or Best WesternHospitality Inn.

SPRING WILDFLOWERS & MONKEY MIA15 days

50

The Pinnacles, Nambung National ParkDolphin, Monkey Mia

GERALDTON

KALBARRI

MONKEY MIA

BUSSELTON

ALBANY

ESPERANCE

HYDEN

KALGOORLIE

Fremantle

Cape LeeuwinTorndirrup

National Park

Margaret River

Lake Lefroy

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2

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Pinnacles

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Stirling Range National Park

NambungNational Park

Kalbarri National Park

Shark Bay

PERTH

Murch

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Swan River

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DAY 12 • GERALDTON – SHARK BAYThe sprawling Kalbarri National Park is locatedon the lower reaches of the Murchison River. Asyou travel through the park today you’ll seemagnificent red and white banded gorges andwildflowers on the rolling sand plains. We’ll visitNature’s Window which is a natural rock archthat frames the upstream view. We’ll then stopat Hawks Head Lookout which offersspectacular views of Murchison Gorge.Overnight Stay: Monkey Mia Dolphin Resort.

DAY 13 • SHARK BAY – KALBARRILocated at Dolphin Beach, famous for itskilometres of secluded crystal blue waters andpristine white-shell beaches, World Heritagelisted Monkey Mia has attracted pods ofdolphins to its tranquil shores daily for morethan forty years. This dolphin interaction isknown to be one of the most reliable meetingplaces for dolphins in the world. Shark Bay isalso home to other marine life such as sharks,whales, turtles, manta rays and dugongs. VisitHamelin Pool to see some of the world’s oldestorganisms - stromatolites. The dome shapedstructures are the result of primitive life formsthat first existed on earth billions of years ago.Travel through part of Kalbarri National Park,famous for its extraordinary river gorge sceneryand onto the seaside town of Kalbarri.Overnight Stay: Kalbarri Edge Resort.

DAY 14 • KALBARRI – PERTH Watch out for beautiful springtime wildflowersas you travel to the Western Wildflower Farm tosee, smell and touch the flowers. You’ll tour thewildflower packing, drying and dyeing shedsand outside you can stroll amongst kangaroopaws, flowering gums and shrubs. Visit NewNorcia, a piece of old Spain in the middle of theAustralian bush. See the imposing monastery, asample of fine European architecture and thefascinating museum containing everything fromthe history of the mission to paintings bySpanish and Italian masters. Continue to Perthwhere you’ll say farewell to your crew andfellow travellers at this evening’s dinner.Overnight Stay: Holiday Inn Burswood.

DAY 15 • PERTHYour tour concludes after breakfast when youwill be transferred to the airport.

51

Nights accommodationLand Content

1

Sep 13, 1627, 30

Sep 12, 1526, 29


15 Day Tour Tour Code: OWWAPerth to Perth $5,195Single Supplement $1,255


2009 2010

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Watch a traditional gold pour during a tour of the Perth Mint and enjoy Devonshire Teain the elegant Perth Mint Tea Garden

• Guided tour of the unique Forest Heritage Centre • 2 night stay at Abbey Beach Resort situated on the beachfront of Geographe Bay • Visit to the historic Cape Leewin Lighthouse on the south western tip of Australia –

a famous landmark over 100 years old• Guided tour of the fascinating Caveworks and Mammoth Caves • Visit the Eagles Heritage Wildlife Centre which houses the largest collection in

Australia of eagles, hawks and falcons • Wine tasting at a winery in the Margaret River area • Visit the famous Gloucester Tree, the world’s tallest bushfire lookout tree • Take a breathtaking ride on the Pemberton Tramway through the Karri and

Jarrah Forests • Walk along the canopy of the Valley of the Giants in Albany • See the spectacular rock formations of Natural Bridge and the Gap • Guided tour of the Whaleworld Museum in Albany • Visit beautiful Stirling Ranges National Park • Guided tour and gold panning at the Miners Hall of Fame in Kalgoorlie • See the unusual rock formations of Hippo’s Yawn and Wave Rock • Visit the York Motor Museum, recognised as one of the finest private collections of

veteran and vintage cars in Australia • Explore the sights of Perth and Fremantle followed by a luncheon cruise on the

Swan River • See the unique Pinnacles landscape at Nambung National Park • Guided tour with Allan Tinker, an internationally recognised wildflower expert • Visit World Heritage listed Shark Bay and admire the dolphins at Monkey Mia

up close • Visit New Norcia, Australia’s only monastic town and see the imposing monastery

ACCOMMODATION

We have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles on this tour ranging from 3.5 to 5 star hotels. Each location has been chosen to make the most of what each region has to offer.

Wildflowers

DAY 1 • LAUNCESTONOn arrival at Launceston airport you will bemet and transferred to your hotel (please bookflights to arrive by 1.30pm). This afternoonmeet your Outback Discovery crew and fellowtravellers and join them for a tour ofLaunceston. This is a city of elegant 19thcentury architecture and the surroundingcountryside is Tasmania’s premier wine-growing region. Launceston was founded onthe junction of the Tamar, North Esk and SouthEsk Rivers and it is known as Tasmania's‘Garden City’. We will visit Cataract Gorgewhere you can enjoy a ride on the world'slongest single span chairlift or a walk over thehistoric King George Bridge. This eveningenjoy a welcome dinner. Overnight Stay:Peppers Seaport Resort or similar.

DAY 2 • LAUNCESTON – STANLEYOur first stop on our journey around thisbeautiful island state will be at the TrowunnaWildlife Sanctuary where you will have theopportunity to interact with native Tasmanianwildlife including Tasmanian devils andwombats. We then continue on to Sheffield,famous for its spectacular street murals. Wetravel through orchard country to the port townof Devonport and along a stretch of stunningcoastline to the pretty town of Penguin. Ourroute then takes us to Boat Harbour Beach, acharming hillside village known for its finewhite-sand beach. As we drive west along thecoast and approach the historic town of Stanleyyou’ll see ‘The Nut’, a huge flat-topped circularheadland that dominates the town. You can takea chairlift ride (own expense) to the top forwonderful views up and down the coast. Tonightwe stay in the heart of this charming town.Overnight Stay: Stanley Seaview Inn.

DAY 3 • STANLEY – CRADLE MOUNTAINThe historic grazing property of Woolnorth isthe site of Tasmania’s largest wind farm. Feelthe strength of the winds that power theturbines on this morning’s tour. We then visitCape Grim and the Rocky Cape Lighthouse forgreat views of this rugged coast. At HellyerGorge you can take an easy stroll along theriverbank where moss covered rocks and largetree ferns are shaded by huge forest trees. Two Night Stay: Cradle Mountain Lodge.

DAY 4 • CRADLE MOUNTAINA special day begins with a guided tour of theWorld Heritage listed Cradle Mountain - Lake StClair National Park. In 1911 Austrian bornnaturalist Gustaf Weindorfer bought land andbuilt a chalet to attract people who wanted totrek at Cradle Mountain. Nestled among themyrtles and King Billy pines at Cradle Valley, therebuilt Waldheim Chalet takes you back to thetime when the Weindorfers first offered theirrenowned hospitality to guests. You will alsospend time exploring Dove Lake. Later there’sfree time to take another walk from your lodge.You may be lucky enough to see a platypus in thepools of Pencil Pine Creek or a wombat feedingin the bush. We’ll host a wine and cheese tastingbefore dinner, so you can sample some of theexcellent local produce. After dinner there willbe an informative slide presentation aboutCradle Mountain, its flora and fauna.

DAY 5 • CRADLE MOUNTAIN – STRAHANToday we travel through wilderness areasdotted with lakes that have been dammed topower hydro electricity stations. We will crossLake Pieman at Reece Dam, a favourite spotfor trout fishermen. At the historic town ofZeehan we will visit the museum where you’lllearn about the history of the region’s miningindustry which began to boom around 1882when silver-lead deposits were found. TheMuseum’s displays of pioneering memorabiliainclude some of the best mineral samples inthe world. On to Queenstown to board thereconstructed Wilderness Railway which wasbuilt despite treacherous weather and difficultterrain to forge a link between the miningtown of Queenstown and the port of Strahan.At the end of the line the train arrives at thepretty little town of Strahan on MacquarieHarbour. Two Night Stay: Strahan Village.

DAY 6 • STRAHANMacquarie Harbour is the gateway to theFranklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park.This morning board your luxury cruise vesselto cross the harbour to Hells Gate where theharbour flows into the sea. The cruise willcontinue along the wide lower reaches of theGordon River to Heritage Landing where you’llwalk through the ancient rainforest beneathtrees thousands of years old. From here it's a

visit to Sarah Island where a guide will take youon a tour around the remains of this harshpenal island whilst reciting stories of survival.This evening you will enjoy the comic re-enactment of a true story of escape from SarahIsland aboard ‘The Ship That Never Was’.

DAY 7 • STRAHAN – HOBARTToday we make our way back to Queenstownbefore driving across barren slopes damagedby the many years of mining. We’ll visit thedeepest lake in Australia, Lake St. Clair. Fromhere, it’s on to Russell Falls in Mount FieldNational Parks, where the track to thepicturesque falls is framed by stunning talltree ferns. We’ll continue to historic NewNorfolk for a brief look around. New Norfolkwas pioneered in 1808 by Norfolk Island freesettlers and has many fine examples ofcolonial architecture including St. MatthewsChurch, Australia’s oldest church, Bush Innand Old Colony Inn, now a museum. We’ll thentake the long winding road to the top of Mt.Wellington for a spectacular view over Hobart(weather conditions permitting) beforemaking our way to Hobart, set on the RiverDerwent and very much a city of the sea withviews of the Derwent estuary appearingaround every corner. Two Night Stay:Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart.

DAY 8 • HOBARTToday we travel to Huon Valley which is setamongst pristine waterways and wilderness.Arts, craft and heritage; apple blossoms andvineyards; farmers, foresters and fishermencapture the essence of the Tasmaniancountryside. Close by is the Tahune Airwalkwhere you’ll have a unique view of the lushforest canopy. We’ll then start making ourway back to Hobart via the towns of Huonvilleand Cygnet.

DAY 9 • HOBART – FREYCINET NATIONAL PARKThis morning we visit one of Australia's oldest towns, Richmond. This quaint villagehas the country’s oldest Catholic Church andsandstone bridge in Australia as well as craftshops, galleries and antique shops. Then wecontinue to the penal settlement of Port Arthurwhich began as a timber station and in 1857

TASMANIAN WILDERNESS EXPLORER12 days

52

Penal Colony, Port ArthurWineglass Bay, Freycinet National Park

LAUNCESTON

STANLEY

CRADLEMOUNTAIN

STRAHAN

HOBART

FREYCINET NATIONAL PARK

Ross

2

Richmond

Huon ValleyPort Arthur

Macquarie Harbour

Bay of Fires

RussellFalls

Lake St Clair

Sheffield

Wynyard

‘The Nut’Cape Grim

1

Cradle MountainLake St. Clair National Park

Gordon River

Lake Pieman

Tamar River

Franklin-GordonWild Rivers

National Park

Lake Gordon

Mt. WIlliam National Park

2

Wineglass Bay

Bicheno

St Helens11

2

Curringa Farm

2

became a convict penitentiary. Just 20 yearslater, the last convict left Port Arthur. Today,your guide will show you the well-preservedruins built with convict labour, impressivearchitecture and chilling prison facilities. You’llcruise around the Isle of the Dead. DepartingPort Arthur, we will visit three naturalformations carved by the sea – the Blowhole,Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen, before wecontinue north along the Tasman Highwayuntil we reach spectacular Freycinet NationalPark. Two Night Stay: Freycinet Lodge.

DAY 10 • FREYCINET NATIONAL PARKThis morning visit the Park’s Visitor Centrewhere you will be introduced to the naturaland cultural heritage of this region viacreative displays. Then we’ll walk toWineglass Bay lookout in Freycinet National Park to admire the clear blue seaand the circle of white sand fringing the bay. The afternoon is at leisure to enjoy your surroundings.

DAY 11 • FREYCINET – LAUNCESTONThis morning we’ll leave Freycinet and headnorth towards the fishing village of St Helens.We then take the back tracks along the Bay ofFires and through Mount William NationalPark. In the Tamar Valley we’ll visit the earlyEuropean settlement of George Town beforevisiting the lighthouse at Low Head. We crossthe Tamar River via the modernistic BatmanBridge and drive to Beaconsfield for a tour ofthe Grubb Shaft Mining Museum. Continuingthrough the Tamar’s wine growing areas, we return to Launceston. Overnight Stay:Peppers Seaport Resort or similar.

DAY 12 • LAUNCESTONThis morning we’ll drive to Woolmers Estate, a19th century rural settlement. The Estate hasoutstanding cultural significance because itrepresents continuous ownership by a singlefamily over six generations, from the time theland was first settled in 1817 to the death of thelast heir in 1994. The National Rose Garden ofAustralia is also at Woolmers, and a strollthrough the gardens is highly recommended.We’ll then stop in the historic town of Ross,after which you’ll be transferred to the airportfor your homebound flight (please book yourflights to depart from 3.00pm onwards).

53

Gordon River cruise, Strahan

Oct 25Nov 15

Jan 17Feb 07, 28Mar 14Oct 24Nov 14


12 Day Tour Tour Code: OTALaunceston to Launceston $4,695Single Supplement $960


2009 2010


1

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS• Visit Trowunna Wildlife Sanctuary and meet a Tasmanian devil • Explore the township of Sheffield, famous for its spectacular street murals • Overnight stay in the historic English village of Stanley nestled at the foot of the

towering volcanic core, ‘The Nut’ • Guided tour through Woolnorth Wind Farm and Cape Grim• 2 night stay in the cosy pine cabins at Cradle Mountain Lodge• Guided tour of the World Heritage listed Cradle Mountain-Lake St Clair National Park• Ride on the famous West Coast Wilderness Railway from Queenstown to Strahan• 2 night stay in Strahan, a pretty little town located on Macquarie Harbour • Cruise on the mighty Gordon River in guaranteed window seating • Visit the deepest freshwater lake in Australia, Lake St Clair and take in the stunning

scenery as you enjoy a short walk • Explore picturesque Russell Falls as you stroll through the lush rainforest • 2 night stay at the Hotel Grand Chancellor Hobart, located on the bustling waterfront • Tour the Huon Valley and take a walk on the Tahune Airwalk • Visit the quaint historic villages of Richmond and Ross • Explore the Tasman Peninsula and visit the natural rock formations of the Blowhole,

Tasman Arch and Devil’s Kitchen • Guided tour of the penal settlement of Port Arthur and cruise around the Isle of the Dead • 2 night stay in spectacular Freycinet National Park at Freycinet Lodge• Walk to stunning Wineglass Bay in the centre of Freycinet National Park • Guided tour of the Grubb Shaft Mining Museum in Beaconsfield• Tour of Woolmers Estate, home to the National Rose Garden

ACCOMMODATIONWe have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles on this tour ranging from 4 to 5 starhotels and lodges. Each location has been chosen to make the most of what each region hasto offer.

ON TOUR ACTIVITIESA number of great walks are included on various days throughout this tour. The followingwalks are considered moderate to difficult and a good to excellent level of fitness willespecially be required for these walks:• Dove Lake • Wineglass Bay Lookout

DAY 1 • MELBOURNEOn arrival in Melbourne you will be met andtransferred to your hotel. Enjoy some freetime before meeting your Outback Discoverycrew and fellow travellers during yourwelcome dinner this evening. Overnight Stay:Rendezvous Hotel Melbourne.

DAY 2 • MELBOURNE – WARRNAMBOOLWe cross the West Gate Bridge and drivealong the western shores of Port Phillip Bay toVictoria’s largest regional city, Geelong. Theholiday town of Torquay is Australia’s surfingcapital and the official start of the Great OceanRoad. The views are the most spectacular onthe winding stretch between Lorne and ApolloBay. We travel through the hardwood forestsof the Otway Ranges rejoining the coast at theTwelve Apostles, giant rock stacks standinglike sentinels in the ocean. We’re now on theShipwreck Coast, named for the large numberof ships that were lost here. Overnight Stay:Country Comfort.

DAY 3 • WARRNAMBOOL –COONAWARRA As we leave Warrnambool, we’ll go koalaspotting at Tower Hill, a dormant volcano thatlast erupted 30,000 years ago. Our next stop isa visit to the fishing town of Port Fairy, one ofVictoria’s earliest ports which still boastsoriginal colonial architecture. This afternoonwe cross the South Australian border into aregion renowned for geological featurescreated after extensive volcanic activity. At theUmpherston Sinkhole you’ll see the beautifulsunken garden. The streets and houses ofMount Gambier are built around the slopes ofan extinct volcano, with the city climbingalmost to the lip of the famous Blue Lake. Wecontinue to the historic township of Penolaand the Mary MacKillop Interpretive Centreand The Woods MacKillop Schoolhouse.Overnight Stay: Chardonnay Lodge.

DAY 4 • COONAWARRA – KANGAROO ISLANDToday we travel past vineyards and grazingproperties to Naracoorte where we visit theNaracoorte Caves and the coastal fishing townof Kingston. We’ll then follow the waters ofthe Coorong to Meningie and past Lake Albertand Lake Alexandrina. We’ll stop for afternoon

tea on the banks of the Murray River at TailemBend. At Cape Jervis we’ll board the ferry toPenneshaw on Kangaroo Island. Two Night Stay:Kangaroo Island Seafront Resort.

DAY 5 • KANGAROO ISLANDKangaroo Island offers a breathtakingdiversity of natural environments - secludedbeaches, farmland, charming hamlets anddense forests. We’ll spend the day with a localguide who will give us a very informativeinsight into life on this southern island. Ourencounters with the island’s wildlife willinclude a walk amongst sea lions lolling onthe beach and a visit to Cape De CouedicLighthouse to see New Zealand fur sealsfrolicking in the Southern Ocean swell.Tonight we’ll watch penguins returning totheir burrows after their daily fishingexpeditions (colony numbers may varydepending on the season).

DAY 6 • KANGAROO ISLAND – ADELAIDEWe return to the mainland by ferry thismorning. We’ll enjoy some free time at thecoastal township of Victor Harbour whichstands on Encounter Bay. We then continuethrough Goolwa and on to Adelaide. Thegenerous boulevards, historic churches andelegant architecture of Adelaide reflect SouthAustralia's strong European heritage. Two Night Stay: Hilton Adelaide.

DAY 7 • ADELAIDEThis morning we’ll visit the lookout onMontefiore Hill, site of the life size bronzestatue of Adelaide's founding father, ColonelWilliam Light. Then we’ll drive to the trendycoastal suburb of Glenelg, Adelaide’s mostpopular beach. Across town we will travel tothe Mount Lofty Ranges and the village ofHahndorf, one of the Adelaide Hills’ mostfamous towns and Australia's oldest Germansettlement. Afterwards we’ll enjoy winetasting at some of the Barossa Valley’sprestigious wineries.

DAY 8 • ADELAIDE – WILPENA POUNDToday we leave the city behind for theFlinders Ranges and the outback. On the waywe’ll call in at the historic copper miningtown of Burra where a local guide will escortyou on a tour of the town. Continuing duenorth we pass through Peterborough and

Orroroo, after which you’ll see the beginningsof the beautifully coloured ridges of theFlinders Ranges. From here we follow theline of the ranges to Wilpena Pound. Thismajestic natural amphitheatre is a lost worldinside a giant stone crater. Overnight Stay:Wilpena Pound Resort.

DAY 9 • WILPENA POUND – ARKAROOLAWilpena Pound is the centrepiece of theFlinders Ranges National Park, recognised asone of the finest landscapes in Australia. It isrich in wildlife that has adapted well to therugged mountains and gorges. After breakfastwe’ll take a short transfer before our walk upthe ridge for spectacular views across thepound. We visit the old mining town of Blinman.The crumbling ruins of old cottages and theBlinman mine now form an historic town set ina sparse hilly landscape. It is gravel road all theway to Arkaroola Wilderness Sanctuary. Fewother places in Australia offer such ease ofaccess to so many sheltered waterholes, deepplunging gorges and breathtaking mountaintop views of vast desert plains and distant saltlakes. Two Night Stay: Arkaroola WildernessSanctuary and Resort.

DAY 10 • ARKAROOLAToday is a day of adventure and exploration.Travelling in a specially constructed open-top4WD vehicle, you’ll take a guided RidgetopTour of some of the most spectacularlyrugged country on earth. Our local tour guideswill share their knowledge of Arkaroola's1,600 million year geological history as younavigate the steep slopes of the famousRidgetop Track. Back at the resort you willhave time to relax or take a stroll in theWilderness Sanctuary. After dinner take in themillions of stars at the ArkaroolaAstronomical Observatory, a rare opportunityto tour the universe from a location thatprovides some of the best viewing conditionsin Australia. Under the expert tuition ofArkaroola's guides you’ll have an intergalacticexperience that normally isn't available toanyone but astronomers and scientists.

DAY 11 • ARKAROOLA – BROKEN HILLWe drive south across the flood plains of oneof Australia's many large salt lakes, LakeFrome. As we make our way across Frome

KANGAROO ISLAND & FLINDERS RANGES14 days

54

Wilpena Pound, Flinders RangesKangaroo IslandKangaroo Island

MELBOURNE

WARRNAMBOOL

COONAWARRA

KANGAROOISLAND

ADELAIDE

1

2

2

1

2

Great Ocean Road

Lake Albert

WedderburnBendigo

CoorongNational

Park

Barossa Valley

Flinders RangesNational Park

Blue Lake

Cape Jervis

Dar

ling

Rive

r

Mur

ray

Rive

r

Murray River

WILPENA POUND

Gammon RangesNational Park

Mungo National

Park

Lake Frome

Lake Menindee

Menindee

ARKAROOLA

Barrier Highway

1

NEW SOUTH WALES

VICTORIA

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

BROKEN HILL

MILDURA

2

Lake Mungo

1

1

Downs Station, we’ll go through the longestmanmade structure on earth ‘The Dog Fence’.We’ll then join the Barrier Highway into NewSouth Wales and on to Broken Hill, site of theworld’s richest deposits of silver, lead andzinc which led to the establishment of BHP.Two Night Stay: Silver Haven Motor Inn.

DAY 12 • BROKEN HILLToday we start at the outback ghost town ofSilverton, scene of more than 140 films andcommercials from Mad Max II to the RoyalFlying Doctor Service series. Spend timestrolling around the restored gaol, artgalleries and the celebrated Silverton Hotel.At the Day Dream Mine you’ll get a feel forlife back in the early mining days. There’sfree time to explore the streets of Broken Hillbefore we visit the Silver City Mint andGallery to view the Big Picture, the world'slargest acrylic painting on canvas. Later we’lltake a drive out to the spectacular LivingDesert Sculptures.

DAY 13 • BROKEN HILL – MILDURAThis morning we leave Broken Hill forMenindee, an historic small town located onthe banks of the Darling River and home tothe ‘Menindee Lakes’. We then continue ourjourney into World Heritage listed MungoNational Park. The famous ‘Mungo Lunette’was formed by sand swept up from the driedup lake floor and dumped on the shoreline,now the site of the spectacular ‘Walls ofChina’, carved from layers of the lunette andquite spectacular to view. Overnight Stay:Best Western Boulevard Motor Inn.

DAY 14 • MILDURA – MELBOURNEWe depart Mildura this morning and make ourway through typical mallee country withextensive low scrub and open pine woodland.We’ll stop in Wedderburn, now a population ofjust 500, but once a very populous and veryrich gold mining settlement and retaining oneof Victoria’s few remaining active gold mines.In the early afternoon, we’ll arrive in Bendigowhich is notable for its Victorian architecturalheritage and gold mining, for a brief stop. Thenit’s on to Melbourne, where it will be time tosay farewell to your crew and fellow travellers(please book your flights from 7 pm onwards).

55

The Twelve Apostles, Great Ocean Road

Nights accommodationLand ContentUnsealed RoadFerry

1

Nov 10, 25Jan 19Feb 04, 23Mar 10

Nov 09, 24Jan 18Feb 03, 22Mar 09


14 Day Tour Tour Code: OMMMelbourne to Melbourne $5,095Single Supplement $1,150


2009 2010

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

• Travel along the spectacular rugged coastline of the Great Ocean Road and see theTwelve Apostles

• Visit the quaint fishing town of Port Fairy, one of Victoria’s earliest ports• See the beautiful sunken garden at the Umpherston Sinkhole • Visit the famous Blue Lake of Mount Gambier formed out of a volcanic crater

erupting last, 5,000 years ago • Take a guided tour of the Naracoorte Caves located in South Australia’s only World

Heritage listed site, the Naracoorte Caves National Park • Stay 2 nights at Kangaroo Island Seafront Resort located an idyllic setting at

beautiful Penneshaw, on one of the world's most pristine locations• Enjoy a guided tour of Kangaroo Island including the Remarkable Rocks and

Admirals Arch and experience amazing wildlife • Experience the elegant city of Adelaide during your 2 night stay at the Adelaide

Hilton Hotel• Explore the famous wine growing region of the Barossa Valley • Stay overnight at the Wilpena Pound Resort located in the heart of the beautifully

coloured Flinders Ranges National Park • Explore the spectacular rugged slopes of the famous Ridgetop Track on your guided

open-top 4WD adventure during your 2 night stay at the Arkaroola WildernessSanctuary Resort

• Take in the millions of stars at the Arkaroola Astronomical Observatory whichprovides some of the best viewing conditions in Australia

• Stay 2 nights in the mining town of Broken Hill and get a feel for life back in the earlymining days on a guided tour of the Day Dream Mine

• Spend time strolling around the restored gaol and art galleries in the outback ghosttown of Silverton

• Visit Menindee Lakes• Travel through World Heritage listed Mungo National Park

ACCOMMODATION

We have chosen a great mix of accommodation styles on this tour ranging from 3.5 to 5 starhotels. Each location has been chosen to make the most of what each region has to offer.

Fixed wing flight Uluru & Kata TjutaDuration: 40 minutes UluruDuration: 20 minutes

Helicopter flightUluru & Kata TjutaDuration: 30 minutes UluruDuration: 15 minutes

Scenic flights over uluru & Kata TjutaBoard your aircraft for a spectacular and informative flight over Uluru and view the amazing desert thatsurrounds from above. Choose from one of the following exciting flights over the ancient monolith and see theunusual orange-tinted domes of Kata Tjuta. You are guaranteed a window seat on the aircraft.

ADDITIONAL

half day buccaneer archipelago flightDescending over King’s Sound in your fixed wing aircraft, hundreds of the thousand islands in the BuccaneerArchipelago appear. Not the least of these photo opportunities is the Horizontal Waterfall. Flying on to Talbot Bay,hundreds of lines of pearl shells belonging to the famous Paspaley Pearling Empire can be seen. Then on to CapeLeveque where, after landing, you are free to bathe in temperate, turquoise waters. Tour departs from Broome. Duration: Half day

Scenic Flight Over Kakadu National ParkEnjoy the views from the comfort and safety of your fixed wing aircraft as you embark on a spectacular scenicflight over World Heritage listed Kakadu National Park. As you fly over the remarkable landmarks andattractions within the Park, you will see just how complex and vast this ancient landscape really is. Duration: 30 minutes

Additional activities at own expense and are subject to availability, operational and seasonal factors. Minimum numbers may apply.Unless otherwise stated, they must be booked on tour. Price on application.

56

ADDITIONAL

Helicopter flight over the bungle bunglesThis helicopter flight is a must when you are in the Purnululu National Park and it provides a perfect opportunityto take photos of this amazing landscape. Take a close up look at the gorges you have walked through and seespectacular areas inaccessible from the ground. Views include Piccaninny Gorge and Creek, Deep Gorge, Y Gorge, The Western Wall and much, much more! Duration: 30 minutes

Bungle bungle domes specialBoard your helicopter and depart Bellburn airstrip for the south west tip of the Bungle Bungles where youwill view Y Gorge before flying across the top of the massif for the mouth of spectacular Piccaninny Gorge.Return to Bellburn along the southern face of the range with plenty of time to view and photograph thefamous beehive domes of the Bungle Bungles. Duration: 18 minutes

You will have the opportunity to enhance your touring experience with the following fabulous additional activities. All of

the options focus on the highlights of the region which will truly add to your holiday experience.

56

pre & post tour

Why not make the most of your holiday and extend your stay at these great hotel options.

As an industry leader, we are committed to taking responsibility for thegreenhouse emissions associated with the day to day operations of aninternational touring business.

Climate Neutral OfficesSince the start of 2007 Outback Discovery have partnered with ClimateFriendly to make our offices and sales team climate neutral. Wehave also formed a committee dedicated to reducing ourenvironmental impact and increasing the efficiency of ouroperations.

Carbon CreditsOutback Discovery purchases the equivalent amount of carbon credits asour office administrations produce in emissions each year. These credits arepurchased from Climate Friendly and fund the renewable energy industry.

Partnerships – Climate FriendlyClimate Friendly have been neutralising carbon emissions since

2003, they help Outback Discovery and our guests neutralisethe carbon emissions from their travel by contributing to theclean energy industry.

*Your payment goes directly to Climate Friendly in exchange for Carbon Credits for renewable energy projects. Outback Discovery does not profit in any way from these payments. Please visit our website www.scenictours.com/climateneutral for more information about how the carbon offset program works.

GreenChoiceOUR ONGOING COMMITMENT TO THE ENVIRONMENT

Carbon Neutral Touring & CruisingFrom just $4* per person per day you can neutralise your Holiday. Simply letyour travel agent know that you wish to take the GreenChoice option andOutback Discovery will add GreenChoice to your booking. For more informationvisit www.scenictours.com/climateneutral.

Carbon Neutral FlightsNeutralising your international flights can be donedirectly through Climate Friendly. Please visitwww.climatefriendly.com/flight.

CARBON

NEUTRALISE

YOUR TOUR

FOR ONLY

$4*PER DAY GREENCHOICE

SYDNEYSofitel Sydney WentworthTwin Share $170Single $335

ALICE SPRINGSLasseters HotelTwin Share $80Single $155

DARWINCrowne Plaza Hotel‡

Twin Share from $100*Single from $200*

PERTHHoliday Inn BurswoodTwin Share $180Single $355

BROOMERendezvous Sanctuary Resort‡

Twin Share from $200Single from $365

Cable Beach Club Resort‡

Twin Share from $190Single from $350

BRISBANEHotel Ibis BrisbaneTwin Share $115Single $230

CAIRNSHilton HotelTwin Share $125Single $215

MELBOURNERendezvous Hotel MelbourneTwin Share $125Single $225

ADELAIDEHilton HotelTwin Share $125Single $240

LAUNCESTONPeppers Seaport ResortTwin Share $150Single $255

57

All prices are per person inclusive of full buffet breakfast. ‡Prices are ‘from’ and are based on the lowest 2009 season price. *Supplements may apply during special events, you will beadvised at the time of booking. Rooms are subject to availability.

IMPORTANT: The terms, conditions and limitation of liabilityunder which the Tours operate are set out in these terms andconditions and the payment of the Security Deposit or TourPrice represents acceptance by You of the following: In the event of any inconsistency between these terms andconditions and the Tour Brochure, the terms and conditionswill prevail to the extent of that inconsistency. Definitions and interpretation1. In these terms and conditions, unless the context otherwiserequires: capitalised words have the meanings given in thedictionary in clause 62; and these terms and conditions mustbe interpreted in accordance with clause 63.2. The tours in the Tour Brochure are co-ordinated by OutbackDiscovery a division of Scenic Tours Pty Limited (Company).Bookings3. Any booking is made pursuant to these terms andconditions.4. It is a condition of booking that You are fit and able to takecare of Yourself for the duration of the Tour.5. The Company may, if in the opinion of any representative ofthe Company or Carrier, either refuse to allow You on the Touror expel You from the Tour if Your mental or physical conditionis such as to render You: incapable of caring for Yourself; likelyto become objectionable to other passengers; or a hazard toYourself or other passengers. The Company will not be liablefor any expenses arising from such persons being precludedfrom completing the Tour for any such reason.6. Each booking is conditional on the Company securing theminimum number of bookings required to operate the Tour andto ensure an enjoyable group atmosphere. Where sufficientnumbers cannot be achieved, the Company reserves the rightto cancel or suspend a scheduled departure. The Company willendeavour to make any decision to cancel or suspend the Tourwithin 60 days prior to the scheduled Tour departure date.7. Any booking made within 21 days prior to the scheduledTour departure date will incur the Late Booking Fee.8. If Your booking is not a twin-share booking You must pay theSingle Supplement Rate for the Tour at time of booking. At Yourrequest, the Company will endeavour to match You withanother single traveller. If the Company is successful, You willbe refunded the Single Supplement Rate within 2 weeks ofcompletion of the Tour. The Company otherwise accepts noresponsibility for the suitability of the rooming partner and it isa condition of travel that single passengers willing to shareaccommodation and accept the rooming partners allocated bythe Company. If a passenger at any time during the tourconsiders the rooming partner to be unsuitable, the Companywill, using the pre-paid single supplement and subject toavailability, attempt to arrange single accommodation for theremainder of the tour. 9. If You have any special requirements (including dietaryrequirements) You must notify those requirements to theCompany at the time of booking and reconfirm your requestwith the Outback Discovery Tour Manager upon arrival. Specialrequests are a request only.Tour Features10. The features of the Tour are set out in the Tour Brochure. 11. The Company makes no representation about the featuresof any Tour other than those expressly set out in the TourBrochure and these terms and conditions.Brochure Validity12. The Tour Brochure and these terms and conditions arevalid for the departure date as stated in the Tour Brochureunless otherwise indicated.Variation and Cancellation by the Company13. The Company reserves the right to: alter or change theaccommodation, Carriers or vessels at any time for anyreason; and cancel or alter the itinerary and/or Tour at anytime without notice as the Company considers necessary forany reason whatsoever including road, weather or trafficconditions, non performance of suppliers, industrial action,operational conditions and requirements, water levelproblems, excessive winds or Force Majeure event.14. Where a Tour is cancelled prior to the departure date, theCompany will use its reasonable endeavours to offer thenearest possible alternative tour (subject to a refund orpayment to cover any tour price difference) or, if this is notacceptable to You, refund the Tour Price or such portion of it asthe Company considers appropriate.15. In the event of industrial action affecting air, rail, cruise ortour related transportation the Company will make every effortto contact the client and advise alternative arrangements. TheOutback Discovery after hours emergency number is +61 418686 507.16. You acknowledge the Company is often not the provider ofattractions, excursions and/or optional tours (Tour Inclusion).Accordingly, You agree the Company may, where it is requiredto do so, suspend or cancel any Tour Inclusion where that TourInclusion is not available or, in the opinion of the Company,unadvisable or unsuitable.17. You agree the Company is not liable for, and You dischargeand release the Company and its directors, officers,employees, agents or subcontractors absolutely andunconditionally from all Claims arising from or in connectionwith the Company exercising its rights under clauses 13-18.18. Any expense incurred by You as a result of the Companyexercising its rights under clauses 13-18 will be Your soleresponsibility. Variation or Cancellation by You19. If You request a variation to Your booking, the Companymay choose to accept or reject that request at its sole

discretion. If the Company accepts Your request, You must paythe Variation Fee.20. You may cancel Your booking by notice to the Company inwriting and payment of the Cancellation Fee.Security Deposit21. To secure any booking, You must pay the Security Deposit.22. Any Security Deposit paid will automatically be creditedtowards the Tour Price at the time of final payment, unlessotherwise requested. 23. Security Deposits are non-transferable and non-refundable. Tour Price and Payment24. The Company reserves the right to vary the Tour Priceadvertised or printed to cover any increase in air fare, fuelprice, Government taxes and charges, exchange ratefluctuations, or other Tour related tariffs and costs.25. While travel agents can forward deposits and otherpayments on Your behalf, they are not the Company's agent forthe purpose of receipt of monies. Delivery to a travel agent ofthe Security Deposit or any part of the Tour Price does notconstitute receipt by the Company and the Company is notliable in respect of any money paid to Your travel agent untilsuch monies are received by the Company. You acknowledgeportions of the Tour may be provided by Carriers andaccordingly accept that the Company may pass on anysurcharge or other increase imposed by a Carrier withoutnotice and You must pay that surcharge or increase as part ofthe Tour Price.26. Late Booking Fee: A fee of $50 per file is payable forbookings made within 21 days of departure.27. Variation Fee: A fee of $50 per file is payable for eachchange to the client’s original booking to cover communicationand administration cost.GST28. If GST becomes payable by a party (the Supplier) in relationto any supply that it makes to the other party (the Recipient)under or in connection with these terms and conditions, theparties agree that: any consideration provided for that supplyunder these terms and conditions other than under this clauseor any value deemed for GST purposes in relation to thatsupply (Agreed Amount) is exclusive of GST; an additionalamount will be payable by the Recipient equal to the amount ofGST payable by the Supplier in relation to that supply and theadditional amount is, subject to having received a correctlyrendered tax invoice from the Supplier, payable at the sametime as any part of the Agreed Amount is to be provided forthat supply; and the Supplier must provide the Recipient with atax invoice in accordance with the GST Act.29. Where, under the terms of these terms and conditions,one Party is required to indemnify another, the amount bywhich the indemnifying party indemnifies the other does notinclude any amount for which the indemnified party (or anentity grouped with the indemnified party for GST purposes)has claimed, or is entitled to claim an input tax credit underthe GST Act.Warranties30. Where the Company is the sole provider of the Tour, theCompany warrants the Tour will be carried out with due careand skill in a competent manner and according to generallyapplicable industry standards.31. To the extent permitted by law, all other express or impliedwarranties, representations or terms other than thoseexpressly contained in these terms and conditions areexpressly excluded.32. Where law implies any condition or warranty which cannotbe excluded, then the Company’s liability for any breach ofsuch implied condition or warranty is limited, at the Company’sabsolute discretion, to one or more of the following: in the caseof goods, any one or more of the following: the replacement ofthe goods or the supply of the equivalent goods; the repair ofthe goods; the payment of the cost of replacing the goods or ofacquiring equivalent goods; the payment of the cost of havingthe goods repaired; or in the case of services: the supplying ofthe services again; or the payment of the cost of having theservices supplied again.Liability33. Despite any other provision in these terms and conditions,and to the extent permitted by law, the Company’s total liabilityto You or any third party for any Claims made by You or anythird party (including Claims in negligence) relating to theTour, will not exceed the Tour Price actually paid by You.34. The Company will not be liable for any loss of profit,savings or revenue or interest or any other consequential,indirect, incidental, special or punitive loss, damage orexpenses even if the Company has been advised of theirpossible existence and even if such loss, damage or expense iscaused by the Company’s negligence or the negligence ofCarriers.35. Nothing in these terms and conditions will operate toexclude, restrict or modify the application of any provision ofthe Trade Practices Act 1974 or any equivalent Australian Stateor Territory legislation, the exercise of a right conferred bysuch a provision, or any liability of the Company for a breach ofa condition or warranty implied by such a provision, where it isunlawful to do so.36. You agree the Company is not liable for, and You dischargeand release the Company and its directors, officers,employees, agents or subcontractors absolutely andunconditionally from: any loss suffered by You directly orindirectly arising from any Tour failing to arrive or depart at thetimes stated in the Tour Brochure (including accommodationexpenses and missed travel connection expenses); any non-

performance, change of itinerary or delays in departure orarrival times of other suppliers or Carriers; reliance by You onany representation made by the Company directly or indirectly(including any photographs or images in a Tour Brochure)which is not expressly stated in the Tour Brochure or theseterms and conditions; or loss of enjoyment experienced by Youin connection with the Tour.Carriers37. The Carriers (including airlines, rail carriers and seacarriers used in association with the Tours) are not responsiblefor statements in the Tour Brochure or any of its features.38. The applicable conditions of sale in use by the Carriers willconstitute the sole contract between the Carriers and You andYou acknowledge You have received and agreed thoseconditions.Force Majeure39. The Company will not be liable for any delay or for failureto perform its obligations under these terms and conditions,resulting from or as a consequence of Force Majeure.40. If a delay or failure of the Company to perform itsobligations is caused or anticipated due to Force Majeure, thenperformance by the Company of its obligations are suspended. 41. If a delay or failure by the Company to perform itsobligations due to Force Majeure exceeds 60 days, theCompany may immediately terminate these terms andconditions by giving written notice of termination to You.42. The Company will endeavour to book the most appropriateairfare for the Tour but accepts no liability in regards to theairfare or any loss suffered by You in connection with it.43. You should consult Your travel agent regarding the termsand conditions of any airfares.Risk and Insurance44. The Company discloses: there are risks associated withthe Tour and its activities (including Tour Inclusions); certainrisks and dangers may arise beyond control of the Companyincluding events of Force Majeure, hazards of travelling inundeveloped areas, travel by boat, train, automobile, aircraft orother means of transportation, forces of nature, politicalunrest and accident, illness, epidemics or pandemics inregions without means of rapid evacuation or medicalfacilities; and baggage is entirely at Your risk during the Tour.45. Despite any other provision in these terms and conditions,You agree the Company is not liable for, and You discharge andrelease the Company from all Claims arising from or inconnection with any loss or harm suffered by You arising fromany risk identified to You referred to in clause 44 or any otherrisk which You should have reasonably recognised.Itinerary Changes46. During local or national holidays, certain facilities such asmuseums and restaurants, sightseeing tours and shoppingmay be limited or not available. Alternatives will be offered ifpossible.47. It is Your sole responsibility to obtain suitable insurancesfor the Tour. Outback Discovery recommends passengersinvestigate all Department of Foreign Affairs warningsregarding the safety of travelling to certain destinations listedin this brochure.Smoking48. Smoking is not permitted inside tourist coaches and suchother places prohibited by the Company from time to time. 49. The Company will use its reasonable endeavours to ensurethere are frequent stops during the coach trips for smoking butthe Company cannot guarantee these facilities will beavailable.Baggage Allowance50. Due to limited space available on the vehicle and inaccordance with the airlines, clients are entitled to carry onesuitcase per person with the total sum of its length, width andheight not exceeding 140cm (55 inches) and weight 20kg (42lbs.). Personal items such as make-up, cameras etc. should becarried in a travel bag which is not to exceed 4kg per person(9lbs). Clients are to ensure that luggage meets the weightrequirements as overweight items will be left behind.51. You must ensure luggage meets the weight requirementsand acknowledges the Company (or Carrier as the case maybe) may elect not to carry overweight items.52. Excess baggage is at Your cost.Young Travellers53. We do not accept children under 15 years of age on thesetours as we have found they are too young to enjoy these typesof holidays.Dispute Resolution54. A party may not commence any court or arbitrationproceedings relating to a Dispute unless it complies withclauses 54-58 except where the party seeks urgentinterlocutory relief.55. A party claiming that a Dispute has arisen under or inrelation to these terms and conditions must give written noticeto the other party specifying the nature of the Dispute (DisputeNotice).56. On receipt of a Dispute Notice from the other party, theparties must endeavour in good faith to resolve the Disputeexpeditiously using informal dispute resolution techniquessuch as mediation, expert evaluation or determination or othertechniques agreed by them.57. If the parties do not agree within 7 days of receipt of theDispute Notice (or any further period agreed in writing bythem) as to: the dispute resolution technique and proceduresto be adopted; the timetable for all steps in those procedures;and the selection and compensation of the independent personrequired for such technique, then the parties must mediate theDispute in accordance with the Mediation Rules of the Law

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Society of New South Wales. The parties must request thePresident of the Law Society of New South Wales or thePresident's nominee to select the mediator and determine themediator's remuneration.58. If the Dispute is not resolved within 30 days of the date of aDispute Notice, then any party which has complied with theprovisions of clauses 54-58 may in writing terminate anydispute resolution process undertaken pursuant to clauses 54-58 and may then commence Court proceedings in relationto the Dispute.Governing Law and Jurisdiction59. The laws applicable in New South Wales govern theseterms and conditions.60. The parties submit to the non-exclusive jurisdiction of thecourts of New South Wales and any courts competent to hearappeals from those courts. Survival61. Any indemnity in these terms and conditions isindependent and survives termination of the Tour. Any otherterm which by its nature is intended to survive termination ofthese terms and conditions survives termination.Dictionary62. Cancellation Fee means: the fee calculated in accordancewith: Carrier means a provider of Tour related servicesretained or otherwise contracted by the Company to provide allor part of a Tour. Claim means any allegation, debt, cause of action, liability,claim, proceeding, suit or demand of any nature howsoeverarising and whether direct or indirect, consequential, presentor future, fixed or ascertained, actual or contingent andwhether at law, in equity, under statute or otherwise.Company means Outback Discovery a division of Scenic ToursPty Limited.Dispute means a dispute arising out of, or relating to the Tourincluding without limitation a dispute as to interpretation,breach or termination of these terms and conditions or as toany claim in tort, in equity or pursuant to any law.Force Majeure means any act of God, war, terrorism, fire, floodor any other extreme weather conditions, loss of power,epidemics or pandemics, industrial disputes, slow-downs orother strike activities, riots or civil disturbances, acts ofgovernment, semi-government or other authorities, inability toobtain any necessary licence or consent and delays caused bysubcontractors and suppliers (including telecommunicationcarriers), material shortages or any other disruption to theprovision of the Tour.GST has the meaning given to it in the GST Act.GST Act means A New Tax System (Goods and Services Tax)Act 1999 (Cth).Late Booking Fee means a fee of $50.Security Deposit means in the case of any Tour as showing inthe brochure a minimum security deposit per person ispayable within 7 days of booking (refer to individual tour pricesfor security deposit).Single Supplement Rate means the rate determined by theCompany from time to time.Tours means a tour coordinated under these terms andconditions by the Company.Tour Brochure means the brochure as released by theCompany from time to time setting out the specific details ofthe Tour.Tour Manager means a tour manager employed OR contractedby the Company.Tour Inclusion includes activities such as trekking, climbing,exploring, swimming, and snorkelling which are set out in theTour Brochure and undertaken by You.Tour Price means the price for the Tour as set out in the TourBrochure from time to time.Variation Fee means a fee of $50.You means each person who makes a booking with theCompany for a Tour.Interpretation63. In these terms and conditions:(documents) a reference to these terms and conditions oranother document includes any document which varies,supplements, replaces, assigns or novates these terms andconditions or that other document;(references) a reference to the background, a party, clause,paragraph, schedule or annexure is a reference to thebackground, a party, clause, paragraph, schedule or annexureto or of these terms and conditions;(headings) clause headings and the table of contents areinserted for convenience only and must not be used wheninterpreting these terms and conditions;(person) a reference to a person includes a natural person,corporation, statutory corporation, partnership, the Crown andany other organisation or legal entity;(natural person) a reference to a natural person includes theirpersonal representatives, successors and permitted assigns;(rights and obligations) a reference to a right or obligation of aparty is a reference to a right or obligation of that party underthese terms and conditions;(including) ‘including’ and ‘includes’ are not words oflimitation;(rules of construction) neither these terms and conditions norany part of it is to be construed against a party on the basis thatthe party or its lawyers were responsible for its drafting;(legislation) a reference to any legislation or provision oflegislation includes all amendments, consolidations orreplacements and all regulations or instruments issued underit;(writing) a reference to a notice, consent, request, approval or

other communication under these terms and conditions meansa written notice, request, consent, approval or agreement;(replacement bodies) a reference to a body (including aninstitute, association or authority) which ceases to exist orwhose powers or functions are transferred to another body is areference to the body which replaces it or which substantiallysucceeds to its power or functions; and (correspondingmeanings) where a word or phrase is defined, its othergrammatical forms have a corresponding meaning.

65. Group Discounts: Group discounts cannot be combinedwith any other offer.66. Multi Tour Discounts: Discount will only apply when fullpayment has been received.67. Safety: Please be aware that during your participation invacations operated by the carrier companies and OutbackDiscovery certain risks and dangers may arise beyond theircontrol including, but not limited to the hazards of travelling inundeveloped areas; travel by boat, train, automobile, aircraft orother means of transportation; the forces of nature, politicalunrest and accident or illness in remote regions withoutmeans of rapid evacuation or medical facilities. The carriercompanies and Outback Discovery will not have liabilityregarding provision of medical care or the adequacy of anycare that may be rendered. It is understood that OutbackDiscovery will use their best efforts to ensure that adequatemeasures are taken. Clients must make their own enquiriesregarding safety warnings and government warnings inrelation to the destinations they are travelling to. These changequite regularly and can be found through the Department ofForeign Affairs. Outback Discovery can accept no responsibilityfor the actions of terrorism in certain locations. 68. Special Diets: Clients requiring special diets such asvegetarian or diabetic must inform Outback Discovery at timeof reservation. Special requests are a request only. OutbackDiscovery will do all possible to accommodate requests butcannot guarantee special requests can be met in all instances.69. Travel Insurance: We strongly advise clients to take outtravel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances whichmay arise (including, but not limited to; cancellation fees, lossof luggage, early return following death of a relative as definedin the respective proposal forms).70. Cancellations are not effective until received by theCompany. Days of notice are based on the first date on whichclients commence arrangements booked through theCompany, including pre-tour accommodation and flights. Daysof notice commence from the day notice is received (duringoffice hours not being weekend or public holiday) by theCompany. The following fees apply to each individual person oncancellation:

74. Tour Price and Duration: All prices in this brochure arequoted in Australian currency and include tour preparation,operation and marketing costs. All prices in this brochure are

current at time of printing but are subject to change withoutnotice. The number of days duration stated in each itineraryincludes day of departure and day of return.75. Included in Your Fare: All coach travel, service of aTour Manager, airport transfers, meals, accommodation,sightseeing and admissions as indicated in the itinerary. 76. NOT Included in Your Fare: Airfares (unless specifiedon itinerary pages), meals not specified in the itinerary,drinks, laundry, optional activities and items of a personalnature. Changes to flight schedules may require additionalovernight accommodation at either commencement orcompletion of tour, which is at client’s own expense.77. Airfare Conditions: Discounted airfares are subject toavailability and conditions apply. Your Outback Discoveryreservations consultant will book the most appropriate farefor your tour. Please note that some discounted airfares haveconditions which make them unsuitable to be used inconjunction with these tours. Full details and conditions maybe obtained from your travel consultant. Changes to originaltickets will incur amendment fees, are subject to availabilityand surcharges may apply. Please note: All airfares aresubject to routing restrictions. Airfares and applicable taxesare subject to increase without notice due to fare and taxchanges, surcharges dependent on class available at time ofbooking and other factors outside our control. Please contactyour travel consultant for the applicable rules andregulations. 78. Airport Transfers: Domestic airport transfers areincluded. They are only available on the day of the tour’sdeparture and the day the tour terminates at designatedtimes. Transfers outside these times will be at the client’sexpense and arrangements. Clients who have purchasedOutback Discovery pre and post tour hotel accommodationwill be provided Airport transfers to/from their hotel to theairport. If your airline booking is not made by OutbackDiscovery, you must ensure your flight details are provided toOutback Discovery (this can be entered by Tour Personaliserat www.outbackdiscovery.com.au. Please note: No refund willbe given for unused transfers. Transfers cannot be routed toother pick-up points or destinations. Clients who miss thepre-booked transfer will be responsible for making their ownway to/from the hotel at own expense. Transfers must bebooked and flights advised to Outback Discovery a minimumof 60 days prior to travel otherwise transfers cannot beguaranteed.79. Hotel Accommodation: It may be necessary tosubstitute a hotel of a similar standard than the advertisedhotel. IMPORTANT: Overnight accommodation required tomeet tour and/or flight connections is not included in the tourprice and is at clients’ own expense.80. Tour Participation: Outback Discovery welcomespassengers with disabilities or special needs provided theyare accompanied by a companion capable of providing allassistance required. Any special requirements must beadvised at time of booking. The Company reserves the rightto refuse to carry any person who it deems cannot fully carefor themselves on Tour without assistance. Wheelchairs andwalkers cannot be carried on motorcoaches, due to spacelimitations. Wheelchair passengers should be aware of theselimitations. We regret that we cannot provide individualassistance to a passenger for walking, dining, getting on andoff motorcoaches or other transportation vehicles, or otherpersonal needs. Travellers who need such assistance mustbe accompanied by a qualified companion.81. Health & Fitness: Tours include up to 1 – 5 kilometrewalks over steps and uneven ground and in some cases canbe during high temperatures. For client safety and enjoymentyou should be in good physical condition to participate in alltours. Some walks vary in degree of difficulty from moderateto difficult.82. Medical Equipment: Please note that in some remoteoutback locations electric power may not be available 24hours per day.83. Itinerary Changes: During local or national holidays,certain facilities such as museums and restaurants,sightseeing tours and shopping may be limited or notavailable. Alternatives will be offered if possible. In the caseof breakdown or other unforeseen circumstances, OutbackDiscovery reserves the right to charter the services of othertransport companies and to make any other changes asrequired to ensure the smooth and safe operation of the tour.84. Images, Photographs and Information: Thephotographs in the brochure and information providedrepresent typical scenes and descriptive detail for each tour,but it is possible that the subject matter may not be seen orexperienced whilst on tour. Some pictures may have beendigitally enhanced.85. Single Accommodation: A limited number of singlerooms are available at a Single Supplement Rate for eachtour. In some locations, single rooms are smaller than twinrooms.86. To ensure all clients have the opportunity to enjoy frontand window seats, a daily seat rotation system is employed. 87. Additional Optional Activities: are not included inthe tour cost and incur an additional charge. Tours aresubject to availability, operational and seasonal factors. Aminimum number of people are required for some activitiesto operate and must be booked on tour unless statedotherwise on individual itinerary pages.88. These Terms and Conditions may be subject to furtherchanges by the Company from time to time and are shown onthe Company website.

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CANCELLATION FEESDAYS OF NOTICE: FEE PER PERSON65 days and over Loss of Deposit64 days to 14 days 50% of tour fare13 days to 8 days 75% of tour fare7 days or less 100% of tour farePlease note: Transferring to another date is treated as acancellation and cancellation fees will apply.

71. AUTO CANCELLATIONPlease note: Bookings will be AUTOMATICALLYCANCELLED if deposit is not received by OutbackDiscovery within 7 days of booking.

72. SECURITY DEPOSITA minimum security deposit of $250 per person ispayable within 7 days of booking to ensure a place onthe tour is held for the client. Any security deposits paidwill automatically be credited towards the tour price at thetime of final payment, unless otherwise requested.Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable.Deposits stated above are correct unless otherwise statedin promotional offers.

73. PAYMENT OF TOUR PRICEThe total tour price must be paid no later than 65 daysprior to departure TO CONFIRM BOOKINGS unlessotherwise stated in promotional offers. It is the soleresponsibility of clients to pay the tour price by the due date.

64. LOYALTY REWARDSIf you have travelled with Outback Discovery or our sistercompany, Scenic Tours, on tours of 7 days or more in the last 7 years, you are entitled to the following savings:1 previous tour, save $100 per person; 2 previous tours, save $150 per person; 3 previous tours, save $200 per person; 4 previous tours, save $250 per person; Loyalty Rewards are only available for Tours of 7 days or more.Loyalty Rewards cannot be combined with any other discount.Loyalty Rewards cannot be combined with group discounts.

YOUR PROFESSIONAL TRAVEL AGENT

Direct Dial Australia WideReservations

1300 799 443www.outbackdiscovery.com.au

[email protected]

Travel Agents: Log into Outback Discovery Express Book for live availabilityhttp://bookings.outbackdiscovery.com.au

Group Enquiries: 1300 655 112

License Number 2TA 002 633 ABN 85 002 715 602Tours operated by Outback Discovery® (A division of Scenic Tours Pty Ltd).

Head OfficeLevel 1, 11 Brown StreetPO Box 807Newcastle NSW 2300AustraliaTel: (02) 4929 4333Fax: (02) 4929 4943

Brochure Code: DS/OD/AUD 0910

Sydney OfficeLevel 14, 56 Pitt StreetPO Box R1803, Royal ExchangeSydney NSW 2000AustraliaTel: (02) 82741300Fax: (02) 82741333

australia - scenic tours® · australia 2009/2010 the kimberley • top end • cape york •...

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