TIME makes Brisbane a Big Deal
In 2022, Queensland’s Scenic Rim (on the doorstep of Brisbane) was listed by global travel authority Lonely Planet as one of the hottest destinations to visit in 2022. This March Time Magazine ranked Brisbane among the “50 most extraordinary destinations to explore in 2023” thanks to its attributes as the ‘sports’ and ‘sun’ capital of Australia. This year, the city will co-host one of the planet’s most popular sporting events, the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023 as the first of many major sporting events on the runway towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
New Great Barrier Reef Experiences
The Great Barrier Reef defies description. It’s the biggest structure ever built by living things and the only one visible from outer space. It’s home to one of the world’s most complex and uniquely diverse ecosystems; and, a destination, as Sir David Attenborough attests, is “better than travelling to the moon.” At 70 million football fields, it’s around the same size as Japan and bigger than two thirds of the countries on the planet. It is the largest coral reef system in the world and it attracts some two million visitors a year. Now there are new ways to explore it:
Phase 2 of the Museum of Underwater Art, Townsville (02 May 2023)
Eight giant sculptures weighting up to three tonnes each, and known as Ocean Sentinels, will be installed on the Great Barrier Reef ocean floor on May 2, 2023 at John Brewer Reef. The installation marks the second phase of the Museum of Underwater Art, (first launched in August 2020) which is an underwater tourism attraction designed to highlight reef conservation restoration and education for divers and snorkellers.
Since its launch 2.5 years ago, visitors have been able to swim through a giant coral greenhouse populated with 20 life-sized sculptures. With the installation of the giant sculptures at the adjacent John Brewer Reef, visitors can meet some of the fiercest reef advocates and marine scientists. Created by international renowned artist Jason deCaires Taylor each statue has been crafted using a new high grade, low carbon earth friendly concrete reinforced with marine stainless steel. Each one is also modelled off world leading marine scientists and reef advocates. They include Professor ‘Charlie’ Veron, known as the Godfather of Coral, Magnetic Island “Clam Man”, Dr Richard Braley, who is famous for research on giant clams, Professor Peter Harrison who discovered coral spawning at Magnetic Island around four decades ago, and Dr Katharina Fabricius who is a leading researcher at AIMS (Australian Institute of Marine Science). For more information:
Reef Magic Pontoon, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef (early 2022)
W: https://www.reefmagic.com.au/
Experience Co’s Reef Magic pontoon, opened early 2022, is the newest and largest activities platform on the Great Barrier Reef. Located off Cairns at popular Moore Reef, the new pontoon boasts a one-of-a-kind water entry point for swimmers and snorkellers featuring an easy step structure catering for a range of abilities. It has one of the largest helmet diving circuits on the Great Barrier Reef and also offers intro and certified diving, and guided snorkel tours of the colourful coral gardens which are home to ‘Wally’, the world-famous Maori Wrasse.
For those preferring to stay dry, the huge sundeck with sun loungers is a great spot to soak up the views after experiencing the reef on a semi submarine, glass bottom boat or the state-of-the-art underwater observatory with fish feeding displays throughout the day alongside interpretative commentary. The pontoon’s sustainability, research and education commitment not only includes 18 solar panels and three wind turbines for sustainable power, but the platform is also home to a dedicated scientific lab where GBR Biology Marine Biologists conduct vital reef research.
Dive Spear and Sport @1770, Gladstone (December 2022)
Agnes Water and the Town of 1770 in Central Queensland is now home to a brand-new dive training facility and tourism operation. With the pristine Southern Great Barrier Reef just an hour’s boat ride from shore, as well as several wreck dives and a variety of wildlife frequenting the area year-round, Dive Spear and Sport @ 1770 have range of activities to offer all levels of divers and freedivers alike. The line-up of experiences includes recreational scuba diving trips to the reef, as well as technical diving opportunities to wrecks up to 48m for qualified divers, spearfishing, freediving courses, charters and a range of other services. Running a dive vessel accommodating a maximum of 25 divers, the operation caters for certified divers and experienced spear fishers and freedivers.
More Aquatic Experiences
With almost 7000km of coastline and some of the nation’s most popular beaches, it’s no wonder that Queensland continues to deliver aquatic experiences suitable for visitors. Here are some of the new ones:
K’gari Salty Safaris, Fraser Coast (Late 2022)
W: https://salty-safaris.com.au/
K’gari Salty Safaris offer daily tours for visitors to explore one of Queensland’s most pristine marine environments, including the beaches on the remote western side of K’gari (Fraser Island). The tour is a new partnership between long term locals and experienced marine operators of Hervey Bay Whale Watch and Sweet Escape Yacht Charters. K’gari Salty Safaris’ vessel and permits allow for direct access to a number of beaches within the World Heritage listed waterways. This includes the “Western Wonders Tour” to experience the West Coast of K’gari (Fraser Island) and the Great Sandy Strait with the chance to see whales from mid-July to October during the humpback migration season.
Gold Coast’s New Atlantis Precinct and Wonder Reef
W: https://seaworld.com.au/attractions/rides-and-precincts/the-new-atlantis
W: https://www.wonderreef.com.au/
The New Atlantis Precinct at Sea World on the Gold Coast is amazing for kids. Built on the heroes and legends of the Old Atlantis, it includes three new attractions: the new Leviathan rollercoaster, Vortex and Trident ride. Meanwhile, in 2022, the Gold Coast also welcomed a new dive experience, with the opening of the $5 million Wonder Reef. Positioned 2.5km off the beach and just a 10-minute boat ride from the Gold Coast Seaway, the artificial underwater attraction features nine buoyant ocean-friendly structures, abundant with marine life, providing certified divers the chance to descend up to 30m below the surface.
Tasty Trails
Bursting with sunshine and rich volcanic soils, there’s lots of new food tours for cuisine connoisseurs to drool over across the state of Queensland.
River to Bay Champagne & Oyster Cruise, Brisbane (Early 2022)
W: https://rivertobay.com.au/project/champagne-and-oyster-farm-tour/
Jump in a 17-seater fast boat at Northshore Harbour just east of Brisbane city and head to Moreton Island to meet new lessees Andrew and Lisa who will share the life of an oyster farmer as you pop or chew (your choice) your way through half a dozen oysters fresh from Moreton Bay. Inspired by the hit show, “Where the Wild Men Are” and uninspired by the drudgery of COVID, Andrew and Lisa left their professorial li
ves in country Armidale to take a sea change, taking on the 69 hectare lease on the western side of Moreton Island (in 2021) and settling into a remote community of just 15 permanent residents. Guests on River to Bay tour will enjoy sparkling wine, sweeping views to 280 m high sand dunes and a superb sunset during the tour.
Savour Southern Queensland Country Tasting Trails, Southern Queensland Country (late 2022)
W: https://www.savourqueensland.com.au/
The Savour Southern Queensland Country Tasting Trails are a must do for foodies with each trail calling for empty baskets and empty bellies. Six delectable self-drive itineraries wind through the rolling hills, towering mountain ranges and sprawling countryside west of Brisbane. Choose from cellar doors and vineyards, food-focused events and workshops, local producers, breweries and distilleries, picnics and country pubs. Whether it’s a day trip or a multi-night culinary journey, travellers have the flexibility to follow just one trail or combine different experiences from a few, tailoring the trip to individual tastebuds.
Tour Macadamia’s Australia and The Orchard’s Table Café, Bundaberg (late 2022)
W: https://www.macadamiasaustralia.net/
Family owned and run Macadamias Australia have added a new guided tour to the visitor experience where guests can learn all there is to know about this cracking nut, followed by a tasting. This tasty and innovative attraction also features a pick-your-own orchard experience, an interactive learning centre, a working macadamia processing plant, a café showcasing gourmet macadamia cuisine and Bundaberg’s best local produce, plus an event space. Inside, the visitor information centre uses recycled timber and macadamia trees, standing tall under the high-set ceiling to create an indoor ‘orchard’ as such, to visually tell the story of the Steinhardt’s, the family behind Macadamias Australia who started farming fruit and vegetables in the region in the 1950’s.
The Orchard’s Table café brings the indoors outdoors, and the outdoors indoors with an undercover, outdoor terrace overlooking the macadamia orchard. Sample macadamia delights that have been curated using seasonal local ingredients such as sausage rolls topped with crushed macadamias, ham and salad brioche buns topped with macadamia, locally made gelato and not to mention the Signature Sweet Potato Cake with macadamia nuts. Before you leave don’t forget to stock up on macadamia goodies from the onsite store.
Indigenous Culture
Queensland boasts some of Australia’s richest and most diverse cultural indigenous experiences. From kayaking around the Gold Coast to interpretive tours at the northernmost tip of the state, the story of Australia’s first people and their culture truly comes alive. Here are some of our newest Indigenous tours.
Taribelang Bunda Cultural Tours, Bundaberg (mid 2022)
W: www.bundaculturaltours.com.au
Taribelang Bunda Cultural tours is the first of its kind in the Bundaberg region. The half-day tour offers guests the opportunity to engage in authentic storytelling, Dreamtime and taste native bush flavours, while journeying through the significant sites of the Taribelang people, experiencing a genuine connection to the land. The aim is to create friendships while building an appreciation and greater understanding of the indigenous history woven throughout the region.
Yarriba Dreaming Tour, Brisbane (mid 2022)
W: https://www.mtbarneylodge.com.au/yarriba-dreaming/
For a multi-day cultural immersion deep in nature, head to Mount Barney Lodge, a 90-minute drive from Brisbane, for the Yarriba Dreaming experience launched in mid 2022. The three-day personal journey connects guests to country and one’s own dreaming journey. The tour is based on walking the ancient landscapes of the Scenic Rim and share stories and learn traditional ways of life. The tour is hosted by Gurruhmun, a Ugarapul and Bidjara man with ancient local heritage as well as Mount Barney Lodge guides.
Jarramali Rock Art Tours, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef (relaunching May 2023)
W: http://www.jarramalirockarttours.com.au
Immerse yourself in an authentic, Aboriginal cultural experience like no other. Through hidden rock art, unravel the ancient stories of the Kuku-yalanji people to learn more about Australia’s Indigenous history. Visit pristine and culturally meaningful rock art sites, where you’ll be personally guided by Traditional Owners through an unforgettable journey through what archeologists say is a 20,000-year-old outback museum.
Epic landscapes and inland country tours
It’s not just about the beach, sand and reef in Queensland. The Sunshine State’s rural and countryside destinations offer a raft of epic tourism experiences for those ready to do something a little bit different.
CQ Nature Tours, Capricorn (early 2022)
W: https://www.cqnaturetours.com.au/
Caity and Christian Bom from CQ Tours launched a new tour to share their passion, knowledge, and beautiful backyard of Nyanda Station and Carnarvon Gorge National Park with budding explorers. Having grown up on Nyanda Station, a 38,500-acre working cattle property neighbouring Carnarvon Gorge, Caity spent much of her childhood exploring the area with her family and discovering many hidden gems. In tandem with her husband, who is also an accredited Savannah guide, they launched new tours to help guests gain a greater understanding of the landscape and what makes the sandstone wilderness so special. These include walking tours to popular sites of Carnarvon Gorge and 4×4 Tag-along trips through Nyanda Station, viewing rarely seen parts of Carnarvon National Park. CQ Tours also offers the Nyanda Gorge Tour which includes a scenic tag-along drive through creeks and waterways before exploring the Nyanda Gorge via foot.
The Cunnamulla Hot Springs, Outback Queensland (coming soon)
W: https://www.outbackqueensland.com.au/outback-travellers-guide/
In 2023, visitors to Cunnamulla in Outback Queensland will be able to learn about the artesian basin before experiencing the benefits of bathing in its waters at the Cunnamulla Hot Springs. Scheduled to open in June/July 2023, there will be three free-flowing pools of varying temperatures on the banks of the Warrego River. Guests may also decide to alternate between the hot pools and a chilled plunge pool. A range of therapeutic activities will also be on offer within the state-of-the-art complex. Once open, the facility will be a wellbeing must-do destination in Outback Queensland.
Finchy’s Gorgeous Gorge Tour, Mackay (2022)
W: https://australian.com/activity/queensland/mackay/finchys-gorgeous-gorge/
Explore Australia’s longest continuous stretch of sub-tropical rainforest, Eungella National Park on a day tour to Finch Hatton Gorge. With pick up from central Mackay, guests sit back and relax as the tour bus climbs the range before embarking on a guided hike through the rainforest, stopping off at watrfalls and swimming holes for a refreshing dip. To refuel, stop at a local pub on the way back to Mackay for lunch and a cold drink.
Stunning New Queensland Stays
The Langham, Gold Coast (June 2022)
W:https://www.langhamhospitalitygroup.com
The highly anticipated beachfront Langham Gold Coast threw its doors open less than 12 months ago in June 2022. Taking pride of place in one of three towers of the Jewel development, The Langham Gold Coast’s luxury offering spans 169 rooms/suites and 170 serviced apartments, with views across the iconic Surfers Paradise skyline in one direction and the glistening Pacific Ocean in the other. The hotel also plays host to the brand;s signature Cantonese restaurant T’ang Court, an elegant afternoon tea served at Palm Court in the lobby lounge and a luxe wellness spa with treatments inspired by Traditional Chinese Medicine.
qtQT Gold Coast, Gold Coast (November 2022)
W: https://www.qtqtgoldcoast.com/cabins/
An escape where laid-back flirts with luxe, the six qtQT Cabins each feature a private balcony, set within a tropical green oasis and a golden horizon. Guests can book one or secure all six cabins exclusively, with each cabin suited for up to two guests or perfect for a solo escape. Designed for discerning creatures of comfort, the cosy cabins each have their own character; filled with natural textures, earth tones and lavish local linens, creating a welcoming sense of tranquillity. qtQT Cabins give guests the choice to either unplug, without the distraction of televisions, or book all six cabins exclusively. Guests can make their stay even more unique with individualised Curated Experiences. These experiences are bespoke activities organised by qtQT's Curator of Sunshine, a dedicated concierge to curate unforgettable stays. From elevated feasting on The Terrace, an al fresco dining area, followed by star gazing by the firepit or bespoke local bucket list dreams made a reality.
The House at Lizard Island, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef (2022)
W: https://thehouseatlizard.com/
Newly built on a pristine headland of exclusive Lizard Island, The House, and its adjoining residence The Cottage, make up the Estate, a rare opportunity to enjoy laidback luxury at its finest. Located 240 kilometres (150 miles) north of Cairns and 27 kilometres (17 miles) off the coast of northern Queensland, Lizard Island is unspoiled paradise, covered with over 1000 hectares of National Parkland and surrounded by a protected Marine Park. The Estate itself is built on a secluded corner of the island, enveloped by three of the Island’s most beautiful white-sand beaches and access to calm turquoise waters prime for snorkelling, diving, and fishing.
Guests have their pick of both the main multi-level residence The House, as well as The Cottage, a separate single level sanctuary, situated nearby for an au pair, an older child, or grandparents. Up to eight guests can enjoy an all-inclusive stay on The Estate, with a private host dedicated to curating a perfectly unique experience for guests. A stay at The House comes with a team of experts trained to accommodate all conceivable wants and needs, including a naturalist to lead hikes, a private chef and sommelier to cater to all tastes, a facialist, masseuse and yoga instructor to enhance wellness journeys. The House itself comes with a fleet of boats available to explore the reef including ‘Pisces’, a 56’ Riviera Motor Yacht available for tailor-made experiences.
The Estate’s private chef is dedicated to showcasing the diverse and exceptional produce found in and around Queensland’s tropical north food bowl, as well the incredibly fresh seafood.
Silky Oaks Lodge, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef (Feb 2022)
One of Australia’s most enduring luxury resorts, Silky Oaks Lodge reopened in 2022 under the Baille Lodge’s portfolio to combine luxury with tranquillity in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest. The rooms, restaurant and spa all have views of the rainforest or the Mossman River. Stays at Silky Oaks Lodge include breakfast and dinner matched with wines, sunset drinks and snacks, in-suite bar, morning yoga, access to walking trails, one return daily shuttle to Port Douglas, use of lodge facilities and activity equipment (kayaks, bikes etc.). In 2022, the Lodge was named by Travel + Leisure as one of the 100 best new and reimagined properties in 35 countries worldwide.
The Crocodile Hunter Lodge (Australia Zoo), Sunshine Coast (mid 2022)
W: https://www.thecrocodilehunterlodge.com.au/
Inspired by Steve Irwin’s life, legacy and love for wildlife and wild places, The Crocodile Hunter Lodge offers eight deluxe cabins (including an accessible cabin) surrounded by wilderness and native fauna, helping guests reconnect with nature. With family-friendly rustic cabins and spacious decks overlooking the bushland and wildlife habitats, overnight guests receive complimentary breakfast and a gift pack, along with unlimited entry to Australia Zoo.
Adjacent to the Warrior Restaurant and Bar, itself a remarkable eatery, is a multi-species habitat which is home to red kangaroos, emus and koalas. Guests can admire these Aussie icons while taking a dip in the 25-metre infinity pool or dining at the restaurant. The Crocodile Hunter Lodge is proud to support sustainable initiatives already in practice at Australia Zoo. The build of the Lodge includes timbers recycled from the world-famous crocodile viewing grandstands, built with Steve Irwin’s own hands at Australia Zoo. More than 3,000 native trees and shrubs are planted throughout the grounds, creating natural wildlife corridors for animals, along with purposefully placed nesting boxes.
Meanwhile in Noosa, anglers will be reeled in by the Noosa Sportfishing Lodge, combining a riverfront holiday home with offshore fishing experiences or choose to hideaway in the hinterland at Heidi – an Into The Wild Escapes tiny home with unbeatable hilltop views.
The Pavilions on Hayman Island, Whitsundays (September 2022)
W: https://haymanisland.intercontinental.com/accommodation/beachfront-pavilions/
InterContinental Hayman Island Resort has recently welcomed 12 new ultra-luxury Beachfront Pavilion suites to the island, providing an ‘adults-only’ escape with uninterrupted ocean panoramas. Step out the onto the popping green grass that fringes each of these stand-alone pavilions and with just a few steps, feel the sand between your toes. Inside, the spacious king size bedroom compliments the separate living area which opens out onto a tranquil outdoor deck, topped off with a private heated plunge pool, perfect for a sunset soak.
Barrel View, Southern Queensland Country (late 2022)
W: https://www.barrelview.com.au/
Barrel View is a new and truly striking accommodation offering that will capture the attention of has opened just outside of Ballendean in the heart of wine country. The three ‘cottages’ have been custom built as premium accommodation for a deluxe adult retreat with an architectural twist. These giant wine barrels don’t go unnoticed and boast 180-degree views over Girraween and Sundown National Parks. Each is named after a ‘Strange Bird’ varietal. The accommodation offers a king bed in each barrel, private ensuite, kitchenette, deck area for incredible sunsets and country vistas, complimentary bottle of local wine and Wifi.
Hotel Indigo Brisbane City Centre, Brisbane (July 2022)
W: https://www.ihg.com/hotelindigo/hotels/us/en/brisbane/bnecc/hoteldetail
With interior design by Joseph Pang, Hotel Indigo Brisbane City Centre is a transformed riverfront hotel, incorporating the story and character of the surrounding city neighbourhood throughout the property. Step through the giant red doors at the entrance into the 212-room hotel to find it jam-packed with original artworks and murals created by Queensland artists, all adding intrigue and character, each referencing the city's history, people and streetscapes. A 16-storey mural on the side of the hotel by artist ‘Blends’ is hard to ignore, featuring a blue wren – which is a reference to the award-winning and much-loved novel, Boy Swallows Universe, by Brisbane-based author Trent Dalton. The hotel also offers contemporary dining with Izakaya Publico restaurant and the 1603 bar.
Looking Ahead…What’s Coming This Year
Queen’s Wharf, Brisbane (coming in 2023)
W: https://queenswharfbrisbane.com.au/
Queen’s Wharf Brisbane is transforming Queensland’s Capital Queensland’s newest entertainment and leisure destination is taking shape on Brisbane’s river edge, bolstering the city’s destination offering ahead of the 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Set for a staged opening in late 2023, Queen’s Wharf Brisbane will change the face of Brisbane with an iconic design that embraces Brisbane’s subtropical climate and celebrates the precinct’s Indigenous and European heritage.
A myriad of restaurants, bars and cafes, the iconic Sky Deck soaring 100 metres above the river and an open-air Leisure Deck perched between the precinct’s four towers will create new destinations for locals and visitors to enjoy. The world-class precinct stretches across more than 12 hectares of CBD land, blending beautifully repurposed heritage buildings with stunning contemporary architecture. It is expected to attract an estimated 1.4 million additional visitors each year, supporting Queensland jobs and industry and driving positive economic outcomes for the state. When complete, Queen’s Wharf Brisbane will deliver four new luxury hotels, more than 50 new food and beverage experiences, significant luxury retail, stunning public artworks, the restoration of nine heritage buildings, around 1,500 residential apartments and much more.
The $3.6 billion Queen’s Wharf Brisbane development is being delivered by Destination Brisbane Consortium – a joint venture led by The Star Entertainment Group alongside its Hong Kong-based partners, Chow Tai Fook Enterprises and Far East Consortium.
Ardo and Pelorus Island coming to North Queensland, Townsville
W: https://www.morrisgroup.com.au/newspost/name-revealed-for-townsvilles-new-88-million-luxury-hotel/
W: https://www.northernescape.com.au/activity/pelorus-island/
In Townsville, the Morris Group, known for exquisite accommodation options like Mt Mulligan Lodge and Orpheus Island Lodge, will add their magic to the new $88 million five-star Ardo luxury hotel, scheduled to open in late 2023. In tandem with the mainland opening, the group will also launch a secluded island residence – Pelorus Island – comprising of five private suites by the water at the south-west corner of Pelorus island.