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Upcoming Indigenous Art Events You Shouldn’t Miss

Australia is bursting with scenic regions filled with some fine examples of the art and culture of its indigenous people. Here’s the list of the main events in case you are up for a truly cultural road trip.

Barunga Festival (June 10^th-12^th)

Barunga Festival is a quintessential community gathering held in Katherine region over the Queen’s birthday weekend. During the festival, visitors are invited to camp in the area and actively participate and experience the culture and traditions of its Aboriginal community. Cultural activities range from didgeridoo workshops and performances to bush tucker tastings. Aside from these, there are also performances by popular contemporary artist, as well as team sport events (football, basketball, softball).

There is an entry fee valid for three for days (wristbands must kept during the festival) and includes camping fees. For visitors who prefer hostel/motel options, accommodation is available in the nearby Katherine area.

Alice Spring Beanie Festival (June 24^th-27^th)

Alice Spring Beanie Festival, a community-oriented gathering which celebrates Australia’s best known artifact, is certainly one of the most unique events in Australia. Established in 1997 by a group of volunteers to support and promote the sales of beanies crafted by local Aboriginal women, it has since grown into an event that connects artist and promotes cultural and art exchange.

The festival is a weekend filled with music concerts, a Beanie Olympics, and various textile workshops. Visitors can expect to see both sensible and hilarious knitwear, in addition to experiencing a true sense of community. The entry is free of charge for all events.

Garma Festival (August 29^th July-1^st)

Garma Festival was originally developed as an Aboriginal equivalent of the World Economic Forum. Presented by Yothu Yindi Foundation (YYF), Garma brings together business and political leaders, intellectuals and academics to discuss preservation of the traditional Aboriginal culture and knowledge, cultural exchange between indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, and develop economic opportunities for the former.

Besides the forum which gathers youth of different backgrounds who connect in the attempt to improve the status of the indigenous people, nurture their leadership capabilities and promote young emerging artists, the festival incorporates a variety of music, film, dance and visual art events.

Cairns Indigenous Art Fair (July 15^th-17^th)

CIAF is aimed at establishing a platform to promote, expand and support the art industry of the indigenous people of this region. Through celebration of art and culture, the fair promotes artistic development and cultural exchange between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander artist and visitors.

The program includes a variety of events centered on film, music, fashion and other artistic forms. In addition to this, the event features extensive art market, which attracts both national and international curators and collectors, emerging artist and displays new works in different formats. The tickets are sold separately for different events and some of them include food and drinks.

Darwin Aboriginal Art Fair (August 5^th-7^th)

DAAF is an annual fair organized by the Darwin Aboriginal Fair Foundation, a not-for-profit organization of closely connected indigenous-owned Art Centers. Created as an opportunity to connect artist, art patrons and arts industry buyers during a weekend in Darwin, this is a place where visitors can meet established and emerging artists and purchase artifacts directly from the indigenous people. Exhibited artifacts include various art forms, from paintings and sculptures to music instruments and jewelry.

These were just a few national festivals that are taking place throughout Down Under, offering visitors a chance to experience indigenous communities, their culture, art and traditions, and learn more about them. If you decide to visit any of these, don’t forget to get a free car and use this opportunity to enjoy Australia’s stunning countryside.

Article by Lillian Connors, photos creative commons.

Wollongong for the Absolute Beginners

New South Wales imposes itself as one of the most beautiful areas in the Southern Hemisphere. While this Australian state is well-known for Sydney and its famous sights, it can offer much more attractions to curious tourists. One of the most interesting destinations in NSW is definitely the town of Wollongong. Situated about 50 miles south of Sydney, this place is a real heaven on the Australian East Coast.

Coastal walks with scenic sights

Almost a part of the Sydney metropolitan area, Royal National Park is a great place to visit when you are driving from Sydney to Wollongong. Allegedly the oldest national park in the world, this place contains an incredible string of breath-taking beaches, amazing white cliffs, incredible walking paths and scenic views of the ocean.

A visit to Royal National Park should be pre-planned, so that you manage to book all the tickets and the guided tours you would like to take.

Jamberoo

The largest of its kind in New South Wales, Jamberoo Action Park is a perfect destination for a pleasant family trip. Visitors can go on more than a dozen of spectacular, adrenaline-pumping rides, or show their skills at a landscape golf course.

The high season here is from February to April and during some public holidays, so it would be smart to buy tickets online if you decide to visit it during this period.

Symbio

No matter if you are an urban guy living in Sydney or a tourist traveling around Australia, Symbio Wildlife Park will sweep you off your feet. Here you can have a close encounter with some authentic animals, such as red pandas and cotton-top tamarin monkeys, as well as Sumatran tigers.

In addition to this, the park offers different interactive learning experiences and even serves as a party venue, and you should not miss it when coming to Wollongong.

Car trip that soothes the soul

When you hit the Grand Pacific Drive, you will see why this part of Australia is so famous for its natural beauties. If you are coming from Sydney, first you will spot the amazing scenes of Royal National Park on your left. You will be driving through lush rainforests and picturesque villages before you see the spectacular construction of Sea Cliff Bridge.

Also, when getting back from Wollongong to Sydney, it would be wise to visit one of the local bottle shops to grab some specials from this region as a souvenir. Besides, if someone can drive you back to Sydney, you can also enjoy the spectacular view of this area while having a drink.

Craft beer treat

Also, you can try local beers if you spend the night in Wollongong and then drive back to Sydney. So, if you are not driving anywhere on the day of your visit and want to taste a quality craft beer, go and visit the Illawarra Brewery on the Wollongong beach. When paired with a clear view of the ocean and the fresh ocean breeze, Illawarra craft brews will show you Wollongong the way the local people see it.

Gourmet Heaven

As one of Australia’s most culturally diverse places, with over eighty different ethnic groups calling it home, Wollongong wows the palates of dinners as its highly esteemed food culture keeps on evolving, spoiling locals and visitors alike. People who take their food seriously will definitely satisfy their hunger in one of these eating establishments.

When you see Wollongong and its surroundings, you will realize that the traditional attractions tourists are usually offered Down Under have serious rivals in other parts of Australia. Only the drive from Sydney to Wollongong and farther, along the Grand Pacific Drive is spectacular enough, let alone all the other places along the way. Therefore, if you are planning to visit Sydney, rent a free car and come to Wollongong for a couple of days. Explore its brews, beaches and wildlife and enrich your Australian experience.

Australian Road Trip Adventures: East or West?

Australia has vast empty spaces, beautiful landscapes and modern highways which represent a genuine treat to every road adventurer. There’s so much to discover, so where to start? In this article we tell you what you can expect if you make a trip along the West or East Coast.

The West Quest

Since most tourist itineraries dedicate more time and space to the East Coast, we are going to start on the other side of Australia. Although not as star-studded as the eastern part when it comes to famous sights, the West Coast is famous for its beautiful landscapes, vineyards with gentles slopes and incredible coral areas.

From Perth to Exmouth

The first of two trips along the West Coast we are going to present here starts in Perth. The final goal of this trip is Exmouth. The distance between these two towns is about 2,200 miles. It will take you about 10 days to get from Perth to Exmouth. Since you will be driving along the Indian Ocean, you can stop at many places to enjoy some breath-taking views of the ocean. The strip from Perth to Exmouth is also called the Australia’s Coral Coast and it is lined with wonderful beaches, rich with atolls and azure sea.

You should also visit Coral Bay, a village which is the best starting point to get to Ningaloo Reef. If you come to this attraction in the period between March and late June, you might get a chance to see whale sharks and even swim with those unique animals.

On the other hand, travellers who are not keen on sea adventures should pay a visit to the Kalbarri National Park. Here you can make a two-day stop and go trekking through this wild park. When you finally get to Exmouth, you can get back to Perth or maybe fly to the East Coast.

From Perth to the South

The other exciting road trip along the West Coast that we recommend is the route from Perth to Albany. This trip is perfect for wine lovers and surfers. As you leave Perth, the first attraction to visit is Bunbury. This vivid town with a large port offers a great number of beautiful restaurants with fresh seafood. Here you can see some wild dolphins, as well. Now that you have had some shrimps or calamari, you will be ready for some surfing when you get to Margaret River. This is probably the finest region in Australia for surfing enthusiasts. With about 90 miles of coastline, it gives enough options to every type of surfers.

After an exciting day on the waves, it is time for a wine night. The Margaret River Region is so famous for its wine that even the Guardian has made a special wine guide about this area. Of course, tasting wines demands a night stay in this region. Once you reach Albany, you can go back to Perth along the Albany Highway in less than four hours or choose to fly to another part of Australia.

Feast in the East

Although the Australian East Coast has more famous sights, it is less exciting in terms of road trips. Nevertheless, every road adventurer should try the route from Sydney to Brisbane.

From Sydney to Brisbane

The distance between Sydney and Brisbane is about 700 miles. The road that takes you there is the Pacific Highway, which should take about 10 hours’ drive. However, there will be some off-highway turns, so the whole trip could last longer. The first such turn should be made near Newcastle, where you should leave the highway and turn to the Hunter Valley. Since you will be leaving the main route for a couple of times, it would be wise to get a reliable GPS navigation. Since this is arguably the most attractive wine region in Australia, you should book a hotel room in advance and spend a couple of days tasting wines and enjoying the region.

Before you get back to the highway and continue your trip to Brisbane, make a stop in Newcastle. This is one of the most attractive artistic and cultural hubs of Australia. Brimming with modern boutiques, art galleries and artistic vibrations, Newcastle is a sort of Australian San Francisco and it is worth a visit.

As you keep heading northward, you could make a break in dreamy Port Stephens, where you can watch a dolphin and whale ocean show. As you keep getting closer to your goal, pay attention to Byron Bay, one of the most idyllic places in Australia, with its golden beaches and some great surf breaks. When you finally reach Brisbane, have a look around the town, visit these attractions and visit the divine Gold Coast on your way back to Sydney.

Australia is ready to offer you some great roads and places to visit for your road trip. Pack your things, buckle up and have a fantastic road trip Down Under.

AUTHOR: Lillian Connors is an avid traveler, often just letting her insatiable wanderlust take her to the places she never thought she visit. As a seasoned blogger within this niche, she regularly shares her insights with those infested with a travel bug. This aside, she enjoys losing herself in a good book and knocking back a couple of pints of quality pale ale.

Airbnb in Australia: best places to stay under $100

Getting a free rental car is great, but what about accommodation, you wonder? We’ve got you sorted. We partnered with Airbnb in order to enable you to book comfortable but cheap accommodation across Australia – and you’ll even get a $25 discount on your first Airbnb booking (read the conditions here). With thousands of listings in Australia, Airbnb has become the preferred platform for peer-to-peer accommodation rental. Here’s our selection of some of the best places to stay under $100/night. Cheaper than a hotel, and in most cases, much better!

Sydney:

Ideally located just 8 minutes’ walk from Sydney’s Central train and bus station, this recently renovated Victorian terrace is just one stop away from Town Hall (the centre of the city) and three stops from Circular Quay ferry terminal (the Opera House). From $84.

Melbourne

Fully stylized two-storey loft apartment in the more liveable part of Melbourne CBD. $100

Fantastic room in a beautiful Carlton North terrace house. Includes a private loft space with a TV and beanbags. Enjoy the use of the kitchen, lounge/dining area & outdoor courtyard. Close to bars, cafes, restaurants & public transport. Breakfast included!

Nice room in a beautiful heritage building is situated in the most accessible part of South Yarra with the wonderful Royal Botanic Gardens at one end of the street. $85.

Brisbane

Located 5mins drive to the Sleeman Centre at Chandler and The Belmont Range. Private & self contained, with open plan living & kitchen areas, and french doors that lead to a beautiful sunny covered deck. $89

Comfortable studio tastefully decorated, own entrance, small kitchen, air con. Opens onto covered terrace surrounded by lush tropical garden. $85.

Adelaide

Modern townhouse with tranquil courtyard is ideal for relaxing and feeling at home. The ground floor double bedroom with comfortable queen size bed is private, overlooks an enclosed quiet courtyard. A second bedroom is also available.

Perth

A private room in a lovely house in Northbridge. Only a short walk from the Cultural Centre, CBD and train station. $89

Cairns

This stylish, modern, separate studio, attached to the main house, has its own entrance, deck & ensuite for total privacy. It has views of the garden and pool, is close to cafes, transport & the airport & there are bicycles and free Wi-Fi for guests .$62

Now you know what you need to do: book a free rental car and get a $25 discount to stay at one of those fabulous rooms.

Drive the Great Southern Touring Route

Grab a free rental car from Melbourne and drive the Great Southern Touring Route. Here’s what we reckon you should do:

Melbourne to Torquay
Drive past the distinctive humps of The You Yangs, a favourite with mountain bikers and rock climbers, and you’ll know your journey has begun. Make sure to bring a lock like this bike lock. In the pretty port of Geelong, you can set the seaside mood by wandering along the 100-plus painted bollards on the city’s shorefront. Just beyond the city centre is the turnoff for the Great Ocean Road and Torquay – a famed surfing town with the world’s largest surfing museum. A short drive away you can look for point break at the iconic surf spot of Bells Beach.

Torquay to Lorne
As you steer along the dramatic south-west coastline, you’ll find it hard to believe that returned First World War soldiers carved the Great Ocean Road out of the cliff with picks, shovels and crowbars. There’s a monument to their efforts just outside Lorne Victoria’s most cherished seaside playground. Here you can hit the surf, go fishing, sunbake on the golden sand or drink coffee at one of Victoria’s first cafes.

Lorne to Port Fairy
On the drive to Apollo Bay, you’ll see rugged cliffs drop dramatically to the ocean on one side and national park on the other. Explore the ancient rainforests, heathlands, glow worm caves and spectacular waterfalls of Great Otway National Park on a bushwalk or bike ride. Visit the 150-year-old Cape Otway Lighthouse and stop for a picnic at Paradise and Shelly Beaches. As you continue round the coast, you’ll spot the craggy limestone towers of the Twelve Apostles. Soak up the stunning views and get snap happy from two easy walkways. Continue along the stretch known as Shipwreck Coast for the wild seas that sent at least 700 ships crashing on the rocks.

Port Fairy to Halls Gap

The coastal part of your affair may be over, but don’t think for a moment the romance is. Detour to see the lava tubes at Byaduk Caves in Mount Napier State Park. These sandstone ranges stay in your sights as you drive into the tourist hub of Halls Gap, surrounded by the Wonderland and Mount William ranges. Stay here in accommodation ranging from 5-star villas to basic camping grounds and explore many of the Grampians’ major attractions.

Related: The best mountain bike under 200.

Halls Gap to Melbourne

Head north towards the goldfields and stop along the way at Stawell, where Australia’s most famous foot race is held each Easter. Learn about the history of the Chinese prospectors in the nearby gold rush town of Ararat. Then have your very own Eureka moment as you head into Ballarat, the heart of Victoria’s goldfields. Explore the elegant tree-lined streets and grand public buildings, the legacy of the 1850s goldmining boom. Relive it at Sovereign Hill, a living museum where you can pan for gold alongside volunteers in period costume. Then learn about the famous uprising of the Eureka stockade at the Mining Exchange. Say your goodbyes to the road trip of a lifetime as you head back to Melbournethrough the charming towns of Trentham and Blackwood. Apparently all good things have to come to an end.

Photos and Text from Tourism Australia.

The Grand Pacific Drive: Sydney to Wollongong and Beyond…

Drive your free rental car south out of Sydney and through the Royal National Park to begin the cliff-hugging Grand Pacific Drive. Stop to swim, surf or picnic at Stanwell Tops, where you can also take in stunning coastal views from the cliff-tops. Drive over the dramatic Sea Cliff Bridge, which spans 455 metres over the ocean, and into the scenic city of Wollongong.

The drive boasts many great eateries from a casual lunch of fish n’ chips on the harbour to fine dining or beer tasting overlooking the ocean. The NSW South Coast has a reputation for fresh seafood and Harbour House Crabs options with many restaurants stocking the daily catch. The southern section of the drive features many great wineries and local produce.

Stop for a coffee in Shellharbour on Lake Illawarra or in Kiama where the famous Blowhole shoots water up to 60 metres. Continue through the lush rolling hills to Gerringong and Gerroa, which sits perched on cliffs overlooking Seven Mile Beach.

Drive alongside it to Shoalhaven Heads, a popular spot for swimming, surfing and beach fishing, or head inland for a pub lunch in the pretty historic town of Berry. Do a short, scenic drive to the antique shops, galleries and green pasturelands of Kangaroo Valley.

Or curve towards the coast and stop at Coolangatta Estate for award-winning wines. Finish your first day in Nowra, which offers pretty antique shops and cafes and find a rustic pub to sleep the night.

(Text Tourism Australia)