It’s a sweet start to the holidays for many Aussie travellers today with the launch of Bonza’s new Sunshine Coast to Launceston route connecting the two popular food bowl hotspots directly for the first time.
The new service from Australia’s only independent low-cost carrier is getting wheels up just in time for the Easter long weekend and will operate twice weekly on Monday and Friday with flights from just $89 per person (one way).
To mark the historic occasion, Bonza has partnered with the Sunshine Coast’s Kenilworth Bakery, famous for its epic 1kg donut challenge, to create a limited edition Bonza ‘hotXnut’ – a cross between a hot cross bun and a donut – to celebrate the agritourism opportunities the new route offers to Australian foodie travellers.
“Aussies are eating their way across our big beautiful backyard and our team of Bonza legends are humbled to help Launnie and Sunny Coast locals get a better taste of both regions. Sunshine Coast and Launceston are steeped in rich paddock-to-plate experiences and home to proud local food and drink producers,” said Tim Jordan, Bonza CEO.
With more than 900 producers calling the Sunshine Coast home, the region has been dubbed Queensland's Sunshine Pantry with food and drinks crafted by creators dedicated to innovation and sustainability. Launceston has been recognised by UNESCO as a City of Gastronomy with an abundance of local producers, a world-class wine region, and low-food miles.
It’s the low-cost airline’s 12th route from its home base at Sunshine Coast Airport and second route from Launceston Airport. The non-stop connection between Sunshine Coast Airport and Launceston Airport makes it easier for Tasmanians to swap their Tassie tuxedos for a surfboard, while Sunny Coasters can chill out and discover Tasmanian treasures across the Apple Isle.
“Our mission is to make air travel affordable for the many, not the few while stimulating new tourism markets, so this service marks the beginning of economic opportunities between the Sunshine Coast and Launceston.”
Sunshine Coast Airport CEO Chris Mills said the new route would be a boost for both regions, increasing travel between the two destinations by both locals and tourists alike.
“The Sunshine Coast and Launceston are two incredibly popular destinations. The Sunshine Coast has stunning beaches, restaurants and experiences, and Launceston has a rich heritage, natural wonders and is a UNESCO City of Gastronomy," said Mr Mills.
“The new twice-weekly service will operate Mondays and Fridays with more than 38,000 seats available annually between the tourism hotspots.
“This will be the first direct commercial flight in history between the Sunshine Coast and Tasmania, creating new opportunities for both regions. The first flight from the Sunshine Coast is full and future bookings are looking really strong.
“Launceston is now the 12th destination serviced by Bonza from Sunshine Coast Airport and is launching just in time for the Easter long weekend and school holidays.”
Launceston Airport CEO Shane O’Hare said the airport was experiencing a period of rapid growth which Bonza has played a key part in.
“We’re the fastest growing airport in the state and today, thanks to Bonza, we become the first airport in the state to unlock the entire south-east Queensland market with non-stop services to Brisbane, Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast,” he said.
“Since the pandemic we’ve doubled our non-stop flight network, with links now to all Australian state capital cities plus Bonza's holiday hot spots opening up a national network for tourism and freight opportunities.
“The first flight is already sold out and forward bookings are looking very strong, with Tasmanians taking the chance to break up the winter with a long weekend beach getaway and south-east Queenslanders keen to explore the natural wonders and gastronomic delights of Launceston and its surrounds.”
The Holiday and Travel Magazine
Exciting News! The readership of this Magazine has recently passed 4 million. An innovative new way of promoting tourism in the Hunter Valley region of New South Wales in Australia, selected Australian cities and featured overseas countries. Featuring MICE and Corporate Travel news, destinations, hotels, musicals and events. On the right hand side of the page you will find an index of articles by date, by world location, and by popularity. Happy reading!
Friday 29 March 2024
AIME 2024 STIMULATES $330 MILLION IN BUSINESS ACROSS THE ASIA PACIFIC BUSINESS EVENTS INDUSTRY
The Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event (AIME) has released analysis from its blockbuster 2024 show, with business traded between exhibitors and buyers estimated to be worth more than $330 million over the next 12 months - a 65% increase on 2023.
The tradeshow in Melbourne Australia was AIME’s largest in a decade, with more than 570 exhibitors, 595 hosted buyers and 17,000 meetings occurring on the showfloor across the two days.
More than 4,000 people attended AIME 2024, including 70 media representatives from around the world, and more than 89,500 connections were made across the event.
Further post-show analysis has revealed:
AIME 2024 was the third event delivered by Event Director Silke Calder and her team from Talk2 Media and Events, who manage the show on behalf of Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB).
Calder said AIME 2024 cemented its position as the premier event for the international business events community in the region.
“The growth of AIME 2024 was just phenomenal, and we are thrilled that these post-show results confirm that success,” she said.
“AIME's winning formula comes down to the unmatched lengths we go to vet our hosted buyers, together with the pre-qualified appointments exhibitors receive through our AI-powered meeting matching platform.
“AIME wouldn’t be the success it is without the great support of the global business events industry and, of course, our incredible sponsors who help us to deliver an outstanding event.
“So many of our exhibitors have reserved their space again for next year so they don't miss out on the connection-building that AIME's unique Australian flavour facilitates. We cannot wait to welcome everyone back for 2025.”
MCB CEO Julia Swanson said the results were a testament to the powerful platform AIME had become for the business events industry and for those who did business in the Asia Pacific region.
“AIME is committed to connecting top-tier buyers and exhibitors from across the globe and this year’s fantastic results solidifies AIME's position as the go-to event in the APAC region,” she said.
“AIME and its host city Melbourne inspire connection and collaboration, driving commerce for both Australia and the wider Asia-Pacific. Kudos to event managers Talk2 Media and Events for delivering an exceptional 2024 event.”
AIME 2024 was the 31st time AIME has been held and it remains the first tradeshow on the annual international business events calendar.
In 2024, AIME's popularity among global exhibitors continued to expand, with 63% growth on 2023 numbers. Exhibitors included Convention Bureaux, convention centres, hotels and resorts, unique venues, event technology companies, production and AV companies, Destination Management Companies (DMCs), airlines, cruise companies and suppliers from every Australian state as well as international destinations including Japan, New Zealand, Africa, Fiji, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Korea, Singapore, USA, Canada, Germany, Italy, Malta, Norway, Spain, UK/Ireland, Vietnam, India, Maldives, Monaco, Sri Lanka and more.
For the first time, at AIME 2024 there was a dedicated zone for the world’s boutique experience makers - The Boutique - that showcased more than 20 operators offering bespoke and highly customisable experiences. Another new zone for 2024, the DMC Network brought together Destination Management Companies from all over the world.
Both initiatives were embraced by attendees and provide just two examples of the annual improvements and creative innovations brought to life each year on the AIME show floor.
This year the annual AIME Welcome Event was held at Grazeland with the theme ‘Neon Carnival’, which more than 1,700 people attended, while AIME’s education Knowledge Program, with its theme ‘The 4 Ps of Glocalisation’ attracted a total attendance of more than 1,850 people.
For more: aime.com.au
The tradeshow in Melbourne Australia was AIME’s largest in a decade, with more than 570 exhibitors, 595 hosted buyers and 17,000 meetings occurring on the showfloor across the two days.
More than 4,000 people attended AIME 2024, including 70 media representatives from around the world, and more than 89,500 connections were made across the event.
Further post-show analysis has revealed:
- More than 90% of exhibitors were satisfied with their attendance at AIME, resulting in an average that outperforms all respective benchmarks and puts AIME in the top 10% of trade shows around the world1
- More than 90% of visitors were satisfied with their attendance at AIME, a statistic that puts AIME in the top 10% of trade shows around the world for visitor satisfaction2
- Almost 1 in 2 visitors were first-time AIME attendees
- More than 85% of visitors report that their objectives for attending AIME were met
- More than 9 in 10 exhibitors are likely to return next year
AIME 2024 was the third event delivered by Event Director Silke Calder and her team from Talk2 Media and Events, who manage the show on behalf of Melbourne Convention Bureau (MCB).
Calder said AIME 2024 cemented its position as the premier event for the international business events community in the region.
“The growth of AIME 2024 was just phenomenal, and we are thrilled that these post-show results confirm that success,” she said.
“AIME's winning formula comes down to the unmatched lengths we go to vet our hosted buyers, together with the pre-qualified appointments exhibitors receive through our AI-powered meeting matching platform.
“AIME wouldn’t be the success it is without the great support of the global business events industry and, of course, our incredible sponsors who help us to deliver an outstanding event.
“So many of our exhibitors have reserved their space again for next year so they don't miss out on the connection-building that AIME's unique Australian flavour facilitates. We cannot wait to welcome everyone back for 2025.”
MCB CEO Julia Swanson said the results were a testament to the powerful platform AIME had become for the business events industry and for those who did business in the Asia Pacific region.
“AIME is committed to connecting top-tier buyers and exhibitors from across the globe and this year’s fantastic results solidifies AIME's position as the go-to event in the APAC region,” she said.
“AIME and its host city Melbourne inspire connection and collaboration, driving commerce for both Australia and the wider Asia-Pacific. Kudos to event managers Talk2 Media and Events for delivering an exceptional 2024 event.”
AIME 2024 was the 31st time AIME has been held and it remains the first tradeshow on the annual international business events calendar.
In 2024, AIME's popularity among global exhibitors continued to expand, with 63% growth on 2023 numbers. Exhibitors included Convention Bureaux, convention centres, hotels and resorts, unique venues, event technology companies, production and AV companies, Destination Management Companies (DMCs), airlines, cruise companies and suppliers from every Australian state as well as international destinations including Japan, New Zealand, Africa, Fiji, Hong Kong, Macau, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Korea, Singapore, USA, Canada, Germany, Italy, Malta, Norway, Spain, UK/Ireland, Vietnam, India, Maldives, Monaco, Sri Lanka and more.
For the first time, at AIME 2024 there was a dedicated zone for the world’s boutique experience makers - The Boutique - that showcased more than 20 operators offering bespoke and highly customisable experiences. Another new zone for 2024, the DMC Network brought together Destination Management Companies from all over the world.
Both initiatives were embraced by attendees and provide just two examples of the annual improvements and creative innovations brought to life each year on the AIME show floor.
This year the annual AIME Welcome Event was held at Grazeland with the theme ‘Neon Carnival’, which more than 1,700 people attended, while AIME’s education Knowledge Program, with its theme ‘The 4 Ps of Glocalisation’ attracted a total attendance of more than 1,850 people.
For more: aime.com.au
Drop the bear: Why you shouldn’t cuddle a koala
Image: Tourism Australia |
If you’ve dreamed of holding a koala in your arms while travelling around Australia, then you’re not alone. Arguably Australia’s most loved native animal, it’s hard to resist the charms of this furry, tree-dwelling cutie. But holding a koala is a bit of a no-no these days. Here’s some reasons why shouldn’t get that koala cuddle shot (and some better ways to admire Australia’s favourite marsupial).
Cuddles from humans cause stress
Koalas may look like docile, chilled creatures but researchers have found that this precious species suffers from ‘silent stress’. Many studies have shown that koalas get stressed when near humans, so being used as a photo prop compromises their welfare. So how does stress impact koalas? Researchers have found that when under stress, koalas produce higher amounts of a hormone called cortisol. Over time, this stress response can hinder a koala’s ability to fight off diseases and infections, often leading to a premature death. This is likely why the survival rate of rescued koalas remains quite low despite best efforts to treat and rehabilitate them.Since ongoing stress is associated with lower rates of survival, some states (like Victoria and New South Wales) have passed laws making it illegal for any zoo or sanctuary to allow visitors to hold a koala. Love koalas? Let them live their best lives in peace by not paying for a photo op that causes them harm.
You might get hurt or injured
While koalas may look super cute and cuddly, it’s important to remember they are still wild animals with very sharp claws and a set of teeth they’ll use if they feel threatened. If you see a koala while you’re out in nature hiking or camping, touching or picking it up just isn’t wise. Like many other wild animals, koalas can become aggressive when approached or touched. A koala could bite you or scratch you if it feels cornered, so to avoid a painful injury it’s best to not handle koalas (or any other wildlife) at all. Not convinced? There have been several documented cases of koala bites resulting in nasty infections that required antibiotic treatment and/or surgery, so it’s best not to risk ruining your trip to Australia by spending it in a hospital getting stitches or antibiotic therapy.So what should you do if you see an injured or distressed koala in the wild? Call an animal rescue agency in your state to report your concerns and receive expert advice on what to do.
Touching koalas could encourage problematic behaviours
Doing it for the ‘gram might seem like fun at the time, but the power of social media means that posting an impromptu snapshot of you hugging an unbearably cute koala could encourage others to do the same on their next trip. Instead, why not post a story sharing why you opted out of a touching a koala? Getting people to rethink how they interact with wildlife will have a far more positive impact on the world than getting a few social media likes for a photo you’ll likely end up regretting in the future.Koalas have enough on their plates (apart from gum leaves)
Sadly, koala populations are in decline in most states. Disease, bushfires, road deaths and habitat loss caused by deforestation have dealt blow after blow to this fragile species that’s listed as endangered in Queensland, New South Wales and the ACT. With koalas on the brink of extinction, these little survivors need to be given the utmost respect when encountered in the wild. See a koala while you’re out mountain biking or hiking? Stop and admire it from a distance, log the sighting with the relevant state authority (there’s an app for that!) and quietly wish it well, but don’t add to the many threats it’s facing by trying to pat it or pick it up.Support koala allies instead
Image: Tourism Australia |
Thankfully, there are ways you can see and admire koalas in a more ethical way. Apart from spotting a furry face up in the trees while bushwalking, visiting not-for-profit conservation organisations that rescue and rehabilitate animals is another way you can see koalas and other native wildlife while also supporting conservation efforts.
In New South Wales, book a tour of the Koala Conservation Hospital in Port Macquarie or enjoy an encounter with a koala at Taronga Zoo. In Victoria, you can get your koala fix by looking up into the canopy while bushwalking in the Otways region, visiting social enterprise sanctuary Wildlife Wonders in Apollo Bay, booking a ‘no contact’ koala experience at Healesville Sanctuary or while wandering the treetop boardwalks at Phillip Island’s Koala Conservation Reserve. In Queensland, Noosa National Park and North Stradbroke Island both have wild koala populations, so be sure to be on the lookout for them while hiking in these regions. In South Australia, Adelaide Hills and Kangaroo Island are your best bests for a sighting in the wild. While koalas aren’t native to Western Australia, the species was introduced about 90 years ago. Head to Yanchep National Park’s special raised boardwalks to see the marvellous marsupials eating and snoozing in the trees.
*Written by Jo Stewart for YHA
Thursday 28 March 2024
Carnival Cruise Line delights children at Queensland Children’s Hospital with special visit by Dr. Seuss characters
- Carnival celebrated $20,000 raised by the ‘Conga for Kids’ initiative with a surprise visit by beloved literary characters
Children were paid an exciting surprise visit when The Cat in the Hat, The Grinch, Thing 1 and Thing 2 stopped by Queensland Children’s Hospital to spread the Carnival Cruise Line FUN. The Dr. Seuss characters dropped in to meet some of their littlest fans and celebrate the funds raised for Children’s Hospital Foundation as part of Carnival Cruise Line’s ‘Conga for Kids’ fundraising initiative.
Raising a total of $20,000 for the Children’s Hospital Foundation during Carnival Luminosa’s 23/24 Brisbane sailing season, Kara Glamore, Vice President of Carnival Cruise Line was in attendance to present the Children's Hospital Foundation with a cheque as Carnival Luminosa wraps up her Australian sailing season.
Thanking Carnival Luminosa’s guests, Kara Glamore said, “Fundraising milestones like this wouldn’t be possible without our guests’ unwavering generosity towards our Conga for Kids initiative. This was Luminosa’s second season homeported in Brisbane so it’s an honour to able to give back to the Queensland community through our work with the Children's Hospital Foundation.”
Funds raised from Carnival's Conga for Kids activity go towards helping kids like three-year-old Lachlan Reed, who was born with chronic kidney disease and has battled with regular dialysis and hospital admissions his entire life.
Thanks to supporters like Carnival, the Children’s Hospital Foundation can support Lachlan and his family – including his two big sisters – during their many hospital visits, providing a place to play and special experiences to take their minds off the complexities of his treatment.
On the support their family has received, Lachlan’s mother Rebecca Reed said, “I cannot put into words how special and amazing it is to have the support of the team at the Children’s Hospital Foundation. Their team have become like family – we would be lost without them.”
On the donation, Birks said, “The ongoing support from the team at Carnival and guests onboard means so much to us at Children’s Hospital Foundation and will enable us to continue to support families and patients. It’s great to be a part of days like today that are all about bringing smiles to the faces of these incredible children.”
Carnival Cruise Line has been a proud supporter of the Children’s Hospital Foundation in Queensland since 2019 and has hosted its recurring Conga for Kids event onboard Carnival Luminosa since the ship began sailing from Queensland in November 2022.
For more information, please visit https://www.carnival.com.au/news/conga-for-kids
Raising a total of $20,000 for the Children’s Hospital Foundation during Carnival Luminosa’s 23/24 Brisbane sailing season, Kara Glamore, Vice President of Carnival Cruise Line was in attendance to present the Children's Hospital Foundation with a cheque as Carnival Luminosa wraps up her Australian sailing season.
Thanking Carnival Luminosa’s guests, Kara Glamore said, “Fundraising milestones like this wouldn’t be possible without our guests’ unwavering generosity towards our Conga for Kids initiative. This was Luminosa’s second season homeported in Brisbane so it’s an honour to able to give back to the Queensland community through our work with the Children's Hospital Foundation.”
Funds raised from Carnival's Conga for Kids activity go towards helping kids like three-year-old Lachlan Reed, who was born with chronic kidney disease and has battled with regular dialysis and hospital admissions his entire life.
Thanks to supporters like Carnival, the Children’s Hospital Foundation can support Lachlan and his family – including his two big sisters – during their many hospital visits, providing a place to play and special experiences to take their minds off the complexities of his treatment.
On the support their family has received, Lachlan’s mother Rebecca Reed said, “I cannot put into words how special and amazing it is to have the support of the team at the Children’s Hospital Foundation. Their team have become like family – we would be lost without them.”
On the donation, Birks said, “The ongoing support from the team at Carnival and guests onboard means so much to us at Children’s Hospital Foundation and will enable us to continue to support families and patients. It’s great to be a part of days like today that are all about bringing smiles to the faces of these incredible children.”
Carnival Cruise Line has been a proud supporter of the Children’s Hospital Foundation in Queensland since 2019 and has hosted its recurring Conga for Kids event onboard Carnival Luminosa since the ship began sailing from Queensland in November 2022.
For more information, please visit https://www.carnival.com.au/news/conga-for-kids
Sunshine State holiday experiences for travellers living with a neurological or sensory disability
According to the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, around 23% of Australians living with disability identify their main disability as mental or behavioural[1]. While Hidden Disabilities programs at major Queensland airports help travellers arrive with confidence, there’s so much to explore across the state after touching down. From wildlife sanctuaries and calming animal experiences to world-class museums and galleries, performance spaces and theme parks delivering sensory-specific programs, these Queensland experiences are ready to welcome travellers with neurological or sensory support needs for a fun-filled holiday.
On selected days throughout the year, visitors living with autism and those with sensory sensitivities or disabilities are invited to experience the gallery in a relaxed environment, and where possible, outside of usual gallery hours. During these times, the gallery volumes are lowered or switched off, high sensory areas are signposted, quiet zones are available, while a sensory floor plan is developed to assist with the visit.
For more information on accessible Queensland holidays visit queensland.com/foreveryone.
Be a zoo keeper for a day at Australia Zoo, Sunshine Coast
Budding wildlife warriors can experience life as a ranger for the day with Australia Zoo’s Khaki Sensory Program. Specifically designed for those aged seven years and older who have autism or special needs, participants spend the day encountering animals with all their senses, from scaly snakes to spiny echidnas, fluffy koalas and feathery native birds.Step back in time at Australian Age of Dinosaurs, Outback Queensland
Follow Outback Queensland’s Dinosaur Trail and explore the largest collection of dinosaur fossils in the country at Australian Age of Dinosaurs. Autistic and neurodiverse visitors can access a downloadable visual story to help prepare for museum spaces that may have bright lights, smells, sounds, or things to touch. The museum also offers large print and tactile guides and a free audio guide.Deep dive at Cairns Aquarium, Cairns & Great Barrier Reef
Get up close with Queensland’s magnificent marine life in a comfortable and soothing environment at Cairns Aquarium. For a more immersive experience, visitors can participate in a ‘Marine Life Encounter’ which includes feeding Cownose Stingrays and a stop at the turtle hospital. Fancy getting in before the crowds? Book an ‘Aquarium by Sunrise’ experience, a two-hour guided tour with a wildlife educator held before opening hours.Be Crew for a Day with Whalesong Cruises, Fraser Coast
NDIS participants and their carers are invited on board Hervey Bay’s Whalesong Cruises to become ‘Crew for a Day’ - a unique adventure program that empowers people living with disability to get hands-on and become part of the team. From tying ropes and securing the gate to interacting with guests on board, guests learn how to be a crew member while enjoying a day of whale watching at the same time.Spark curiosity at Queensland Museum, Brisbane
The Queensland Museum explores natural history, science and human achievement with exhibitions and interactive programs for all ages - and offers extra support to those with sensory needs. Prepare for a visit using specially designed social stories and a map that details high sensory spaces and pick up a sensory kit and noise cancelling earphones on arrival. Designated sessions are available throughout the year to support visitors who prefer a quieter, sensory-friendly experience.Access art at QAGOMA, Brisbane
QAGOMA’s (Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art) award-winning[2] Art and Dementia Program is a participant-focused gallery experience designed for visitors living with dementia and their care partner. Slow art viewing of selected artworks incorporates specially curated visual, auditory and narrative prompts that stimulate exploration and reflection, while a therapeutic creative activity invites relaxation and socialisation, supports autonomy, and encourages meaningful engagement.On selected days throughout the year, visitors living with autism and those with sensory sensitivities or disabilities are invited to experience the gallery in a relaxed environment, and where possible, outside of usual gallery hours. During these times, the gallery volumes are lowered or switched off, high sensory areas are signposted, quiet zones are available, while a sensory floor plan is developed to assist with the visit.
Spend a thrilling day at Movie World, Gold Coast
Theme parks can quickly become overstimulating to those with sensory needs. Warner Bros Movie World offers parent swap and queue proxy services for those who aren’t able to queue for extended periods or have children unable to experience a particular ride or attraction and require supervision. A detailed sensory guide for each attraction is available online, so visitors can be confident when making decisions about where to go and what to do on the day.Enjoy relaxed performances at Brisbane Powerhouse, Brisbane
Premier art space, Brisbane Powerhouse, offers designated ‘relaxed performances’ of major shows throughout the year, specially adapted to be accessible to a wide range of audiences who have autism, those with a learning disability, or anyone with a sensory predisposition. During the performance, house lights are dimmed to ensure a comfortable environment (not complete darkness). Patrons are welcome to exit and re-enter the theatre at any time as required and ushers will be available to assist. Audience members are also welcome to bring items such as earphones, ear plugs, fidget toys, and appropriate muted electronic devices into the theatre to enjoy the performance.Animal-assisted therapy, Brisbane and Gold Coast
Centred on capacity building and special needs education, Travena Glen Farm in Brisbane’s valley, is an NDIS provider offering horse riding and calm animal interactions with alpacas, llamas, goats, pigs, rabbits and more. The facilities are fully accessible for wheelchairs and mobility devices too. In the Gold Coast Hinterland, Mountview Alpaca Farm has developed an alpaca therapy program with tailored alpaca experiences for NDIS clients, aged care clients, and their carers/companions to enjoy a day outdoors.Access sensory support at BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort, The Whitsundays
BIG4 Adventure Whitsunday Resort offers a range of activities - from a water park to go-karts - that make it feel more like a family-friendly theme park rather than your average caravan park. The resort features five accessible rooms, plus the dedicated “Reilly Room” - a sensory support room available for guests with autism featuring a range of relaxation tools (hammocks, weighted blankets, projection lamps, calming music) and educational and play activities (tactile toys, sensory toy box, kinetic sand, play dough and craft).For more information on accessible Queensland holidays visit queensland.com/foreveryone.
PAW Patrol Live! "Race to the Rescue"
- PAW Patrol™ Live! “Race to the Rescue”
- Australian Tour 2024
- Hobart, Brisbane, Sydney, Adelaide and Melbourne
- TICKETS ON SALE NOW
The PAW Patrol are on a roll, returning in person and LIVE on stage! The heroic pups from the top-rated animated preschool series PAW Patrol, produced by Spin Master Entertainment and airing on Nickelodeon, will visit Hobart (27 July), Brisbane (3 Aug), Sydney (10 & 11 Aug), Adelaide (24 Aug) and Melbourne (31 Aug & 1 Sept).
It's the day of the Great Adventure Bay Race between Adventure Bay’s Mayor Goodway and Foggy Bottom’s Mayor Humdinger, but Mayor Goodway is nowhere to be found. PAW Patrol to the rescue! Ryder summons Marshall, Chase, Skye, Rubble, Rocky, Zuma and Everest to rescue Mayor Goodway and to run the race in her place. Using their unique skills and teamwork, the pups show that “no job is too big, no pup is too small.”
PAW Patrol Live! “Race to the Rescue” is the perfect way for families to create lifelong memories and provides kids the opportunity to experience theatre, maybe for the first time. Since its debut in 2016, PAW Patrol Live! has been seen by over 5.5 million people, providing fans in over 40 countries with an unforgettable Broadway-style production. The performance is an interactive live stage show, encouraging audiences to engage through call and response and audience interaction. Dance the Pup Pup Boogie, help the pups rescue Mayor Goodway and win the race!
PAW Patrol Live! “Race to the Rescue”
WHEN: Saturday 27 July HOBART MyStateBank ArenaSaturday 3 August BRISBANE Brisbane Entertainment Centre
Saturday 10 August SYDNEY ICC Sydney Theatre
Sunday 11 August SYDNEY ICC Sydney Theatre
Saturday 24 August ADELAIDE Adelaide Entertainment Centre
Saturday 31 August MELBOURNE Margaret Court Arena
Sunday 1 Sept MELBOURNE Margaret Court Arena
TICKETS: www.pawpatrollive.com.au
SOCIALS: @pawpatrolliveau (Facebook & Instagram)
Wednesday 27 March 2024
Merrie Monarch Festival 2024
The Merrie Monarch Festival is dedicated to the memory of King David Laamea Kalākaua, known as the "Merrie Monarch" for his flamboyant and fun-loving ways.
Every year the Merrie Monarch Festival continues what the king started, by hosting a week-long festival of music, crafts, art, demonstrations and a hula competition at the Edith Kanaka'ole Multipurpose Stadium in Hilo. Celebrating its 61st year in 2024, the Merrie Monarch Festival will again present the best hālau hula (hula schools) from Hawaiʻi - and a few from the continental U.S. and internationally - honoring Hawai'i monarch King Kalākaua and his contributions to the revitalisation of hula.
Free admission to watch performances by our local hālau.
Entertainment at the Grand Naniloa Hotel (12 p.m.),
and the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel (1 p.m.).
9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday, April 6th at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium
An annual favorite, this free event features local artists, crafters, and entertainment.
An exhibition night of hula and folk dance from around the Pacific.
The performances are free to the public, no tickets required.
Individual competition for the title of Miss Aloha Hula with contestants performing hula kahiko, hula ʻauana and oli (chant).
Hālau hula perform ancient style dances.
Hālau hula perform modern style dances, followed by an awards presentation for all group winners.
One of the festival’s most entertaining and fun events for the entire family, the parade begins and ends at Pauahi St. (Kilauea Ave. — Keawe St. — Waiānuenue Ave. — Kamehameha Ave.).
Every year the Merrie Monarch Festival continues what the king started, by hosting a week-long festival of music, crafts, art, demonstrations and a hula competition at the Edith Kanaka'ole Multipurpose Stadium in Hilo. Celebrating its 61st year in 2024, the Merrie Monarch Festival will again present the best hālau hula (hula schools) from Hawaiʻi - and a few from the continental U.S. and internationally - honoring Hawai'i monarch King Kalākaua and his contributions to the revitalisation of hula.
Hoʻolauleʻa (celebration)
9:00 a.m., Sunday, March 31st at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium.Free admission to watch performances by our local hālau.
Free Mid-day Entertainment
Daily (Monday through Friday)Entertainment at the Grand Naniloa Hotel (12 p.m.),
and the Hilo Hawaiian Hotel (1 p.m.).
Merrie Monarch Invitational Hawaiian Arts Fair
9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Wednesday, April 3rd through Friday, April 5th9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Saturday, April 6th at the Afook-Chinen Civic Auditorium
An annual favorite, this free event features local artists, crafters, and entertainment.
Hōʻike Performances
6:00 pm, Wednesday, April 3rd at the Edith Kanakaʻole StadiumAn exhibition night of hula and folk dance from around the Pacific.
The performances are free to the public, no tickets required.
Miss Aloha Hula
6:00 pm, Thursday, April 4th at the Edith Kanakaʻole StadiumIndividual competition for the title of Miss Aloha Hula with contestants performing hula kahiko, hula ʻauana and oli (chant).
Group Hula Kahiko
6:00 pm, Friday, April 5th at the Edith Kanakaʻole StadiumHālau hula perform ancient style dances.
Group Hula ʻAuana & Awards
6:00 pm, Saturday, April 6th at the Edith Kanakaʻole StadiumHālau hula perform modern style dances, followed by an awards presentation for all group winners.
Merrie Monarch Royal Parade
10:30 am, Saturday, April 6th through downtown HiloOne of the festival’s most entertaining and fun events for the entire family, the parade begins and ends at Pauahi St. (Kilauea Ave. — Keawe St. — Waiānuenue Ave. — Kamehameha Ave.).
Unique opportunity to join the cast of West Side Story in first musical walk-on role
Opera Australia is offering musical theatre fans the experience of a lifetime, with a limited number of walk-on roles now on sale for the up-coming season of smash-hit musical West Side Story on Sydney Harbour.
Each night, one diehard fan can buy themselves a slice of stardom, joining the cast on-stage in the iconic ‘Dance at the Gym’ scene and experience the thrill of performing on the magnificent Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour stage.
Walk-on roles with Opera Australia have been a hit with local and international opera-lovers in previous years, however this is the first time this unique experience has been made possible in a musical.
The exclusive offer gives the ultimate musical theatre lover a rare, behind the scenes experience from a performer’s perspective. Their star treatment for the night includes:
Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is supported by the NSW Government, via its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, and through the International Foundation for Arts and Culture as Naming Rights Partner, Dr Haruhisa Handa OA’s Patron in Chief, and OA’s Principal Partner HSBC.
Bookings
Walk-on Role $AUD6,500* (inclusions listed above to cover 1 x Walk on Role + 3 guests)
Available for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday performances only
Opera Australia Box Office | 02 9318 8200 | www.opera.org.au
Each night, one diehard fan can buy themselves a slice of stardom, joining the cast on-stage in the iconic ‘Dance at the Gym’ scene and experience the thrill of performing on the magnificent Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour stage.
Walk-on roles with Opera Australia have been a hit with local and international opera-lovers in previous years, however this is the first time this unique experience has been made possible in a musical.
The exclusive offer gives the ultimate musical theatre lover a rare, behind the scenes experience from a performer’s perspective. Their star treatment for the night includes:
- Professional hair and make-up
- Costume fitting
- Rehearsal session with the Assistant Director to walk through the on-stage moments
- Meet and greet with the ensemble before the performance
- Four Premium Reserve tickets, (Walk on Role performer + 3 guests)
- Dinner for four in the HSBC Platinum Club
- Interval drink for four in the HSBC Platinum Club
- Dedicated photographer to capture the experience
- West Side Story on Sydney Harbour T-Shirt & Program
Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour is supported by the NSW Government, via its tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, and through the International Foundation for Arts and Culture as Naming Rights Partner, Dr Haruhisa Handa OA’s Patron in Chief, and OA’s Principal Partner HSBC.
Bookings
Walk-on Role $AUD6,500* (inclusions listed above to cover 1 x Walk on Role + 3 guests)
Available for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday performances only
Opera Australia Box Office | 02 9318 8200 | www.opera.org.au
Winnie Su with Willoughby Symphony Orchestra & Young Composer Award recipient
Winnie Su |
On Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 April you can hear the grandeur of Ludwig van Beethoven 5th Piano Concerto, Emperor, performed by Winnie Su and the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra under the baton of acclaimed violist and chamber musician, Luke Spicer who is now establishing himself as one of Australia’s foremost young conductors.
This unmissable night of music includes the unveiling of a brand-new work by Ray Lin - winner of the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra’s Young Composer Award for 2024. Ray Lin’s work is titled ‘Voyage of the Silk Road’ and is described by him as “A sonic exploration that reimagines the journey of a voyage on the ancient trade routes of the Silk Road. Being a bridge of communication between the East and the West, the Silk Road remains an important part of history renowned for its mysterious landscapes, fascinating stories and tales, and its function in connecting different regions via the exchange of goods and culture. The music invites the audience to embark on a journey experiencing the Silk Road voyage from the mystery of the uncertainly in the beginning, through the intense challenges to the soaring triumph at the end, underlining the spirit of exploration and cultural exchange that defined the ancient trade routes.”
Ray Lin’s new work is presented alongside Gustav Holst’s A Somerset Rhapsody and Ralph Vaughan Williams’ exquisite Benedicite, sung by the Willoughby Symphony Choir.
VENUE: Concert Hall, The Concourse, 409 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood
DATE & TIME: Saturday 20 April 7pm & Sunday 21 April 2pm
PRICES: from $52.50 to $75
BOOKINGS: 02 8075 8111 https://aucentury.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/salesevent/111564
Follow us @willoughbysymphony
Willoughby Symphony is proudly managed by Willoughby City Council
Tuesday 26 March 2024
NSW FOCUSES ON INDIA TO BOOST THE STATE’S VISITOR ECONOMY
Last week, Destination NSW hosted a delegation of more than 35 key travel partners from India, showcasing the extraordinary array of visitor experiences on offer to one of the state’s most important inbound tourism markets.
The Focus on India program provides NSW visitor economy operators with an invaluable forum to meet with Indian travel partners and enable them to promote and sell Sydney and NSW experiences to their clients.
NSW has returned to its position as the top Australian destination for Indian visitors after six years, with the latest Tourism Research Australia data showing impressive results for the year ending September 2023:
This encouraging growth and preference for NSW indicates the Indian market presents an enormous opportunity for the state’s visitor economy.
The Focus on India program is designed to leverage this opportunity by inviting the visiting delegation of travel agents and tour operators to live and breathe NSW’s diverse visitor experiences firsthand. Delegates got a true taste of the state, with workshops at the Sydney Cricket Ground and a gala dinner at the iconic Sydney Opera House showcasing the best of NSW produce as well as visits to regional NSW locations such as the Blue Mountains, the South Coast and Port Stephens.
The program involved not only showing the travel partners the best of Sydney and NSW, but also connecting them with local businesses involved in the visitor economy. Over 30 businesses from across the state benefitted from meetings and networking opportunities with the Indian delegation, forging connections that will open doors and expose NSW to new and bigger audiences.
With Sydney as the gateway, NSW is well placed to leverage its iconic attractions, natural beauty, and thriving arts and cultural scene and build on the booming demand for its rich and immersive visitor experiences from one of the state’s fastest growing inbound tourism markets.
Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox said "The team at Destination NSW is privileged to have had the opportunity to host the delegation from India. It was great to be able to spend time together and hear firsthand their insights, including that Indian travellers are increasingly seeking experiential travel options.
“The event provided an invaluable platform for NSW visitor economy operators to develop business relationships with key Indian travel partners. These new connections will expose our local operators to new and bigger audiences, supporting businesses and thousands of jobs throughout the state’s visitor economy.”
The Focus on India program provides NSW visitor economy operators with an invaluable forum to meet with Indian travel partners and enable them to promote and sell Sydney and NSW experiences to their clients.
NSW has returned to its position as the top Australian destination for Indian visitors after six years, with the latest Tourism Research Australia data showing impressive results for the year ending September 2023:
- Indian visitors stayed more than 7 million nights in NSW, injecting over $488 million into the state’s visitor economy
- 50 per cent of Indian visitors to Australia visited NSW, the highest market share of all states
- India was NSW’s fastest recovering international source market post-COVID-19, with 8 per cent more visitors and 14 per cent more visitor expenditure compared to the year ending September 2019.
This encouraging growth and preference for NSW indicates the Indian market presents an enormous opportunity for the state’s visitor economy.
The Focus on India program is designed to leverage this opportunity by inviting the visiting delegation of travel agents and tour operators to live and breathe NSW’s diverse visitor experiences firsthand. Delegates got a true taste of the state, with workshops at the Sydney Cricket Ground and a gala dinner at the iconic Sydney Opera House showcasing the best of NSW produce as well as visits to regional NSW locations such as the Blue Mountains, the South Coast and Port Stephens.
The program involved not only showing the travel partners the best of Sydney and NSW, but also connecting them with local businesses involved in the visitor economy. Over 30 businesses from across the state benefitted from meetings and networking opportunities with the Indian delegation, forging connections that will open doors and expose NSW to new and bigger audiences.
With Sydney as the gateway, NSW is well placed to leverage its iconic attractions, natural beauty, and thriving arts and cultural scene and build on the booming demand for its rich and immersive visitor experiences from one of the state’s fastest growing inbound tourism markets.
Destination NSW CEO Steve Cox said "The team at Destination NSW is privileged to have had the opportunity to host the delegation from India. It was great to be able to spend time together and hear firsthand their insights, including that Indian travellers are increasingly seeking experiential travel options.
“The event provided an invaluable platform for NSW visitor economy operators to develop business relationships with key Indian travel partners. These new connections will expose our local operators to new and bigger audiences, supporting businesses and thousands of jobs throughout the state’s visitor economy.”
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