Melbourne Tourism Week - Another Reason to Visit the World’s Most Liveable City

Melbourne Tourism Week - Another Reason to Visit the World’s Most Liveable City

The Melbourne Tourism Week presents yet another reason to visit Melbourne, the world’s most liveable city for the fifth consecutive year. The city just turned 180 and is celebrating its tourism industry and the diversity of experiences it offers with a number of events across the city.

While celebrating tourism, these events also exhibit the value of the visitor economy to Melbourne. 

Laura Cavallo, Chief Executive, Destination Melbourne said: “Melbourne Tourism Week is the opportunity to celebrate our amazing tourism industry which provides substantial contribution towards Melbourne’s social, cultural and economic well-being. 

On the back of Melbourne recently being awarded the world’s most liveable city title in 2015 for the fifth consecutive year, we are proud to celebrate Melbourne’s global success as a dynamic international destination. 

According to the latest National and International Visitor Surveys, Melbourne received an estimated 8 million domestic and over 2 million international overnight visitors for the year ending March 2015. That’s over 27,000 people Melbourne hosted per night during the course of that year. (This estimation doesn’t include the additional 16.4 million day trip visitors the city welcomed as well.) 

Considering the total domestic and international visitor expenditure for the year ending March 2015, it is estimated visitors spent $13.64 billion dollars in Melbourne, which is the equivalent of $37.3 million per day and $1.5 million per hour. That’s a significant economic injection which keeps Melbourne businesses sustainable and residents employed.” 

Regular tourists can also check out Mozo’s Travel Money section for money saving tips and the top deals in the market. 

The events lined up through the week include:

Sunday 30 August: Melbourne Day

As Melbourne turns 180, the city will liven up with festivities including live music, Aboriginal didgeridoo performances, free ferry trips and more.

Tuesday 1 September: Melbourne Tourism Industry Exchange

Over 60 exhibitors from Melbourne and the surrounding areas will showcase their products to more than 500 tourism professionals who greet and entertain the millions of visitors to Melbourne every year. The event will take place from 1-4pm, Zinc at Federation Square. 

Wednesday 2 September: Local Council Tourism Breakfast

The focus of this event is on investment attraction and building a healthy visitor economy. The keynote speakers are Stan Liacos, Director - City Futures at City of Greater Bendigo and Mark Wilsdon, Business Manager at MONA gallery in Tasmania. The event starts at 7am, Aerial, South Wharf. 

Thursday 3 September: MTILP roundtable with the Minister for Tourism 

The Melbourne Tourism Industry Leadership Program (MTILP) participants will be take part in an exclusive round table discussion with the Hon. John Eren MP, discussing key issues and opportunities for the industry as its future leaders.

Saturday 5 September: Discover your local Visitor Information Centre (VIC) 

As the face of the tourism industry in the local community, Melbourne’s VICs are encouraging their local businesses and residents to come in and discover not only the role the VIC plays but what they can discover in their own backyard.

Top 9 Things To Do At The Royal National Park

Photo Credit: Andy Richards/NSW Government

Top 9 Things To Do At The Royal National Park

Royal National Park is a national park in New South Wales, Australia, 29 km south of Sydney CBD. Located at Audley, just 32km from Sydney city, the park offers incredible beauty and natural diversity just minutes from the highway and train station.

The Royal National Park is the world's second oldest purposed national park (after Yellowstone in the United States), and the first to use the term "national park".

In this natural haven, open ocean, sandstone cliffs and wetlands meet grassy woodland, rainforests, coastal heathland and eucalypt forests. You will also find some significant geological sites, including fascinating beach ridges at Cabbage Tree Basin.

1. Bushwalking and Hiking

The perfect escape for hikers, beginners or those who enjoy a scenic but challenging walk, you can't go past bush walking throughout the Royal National Park. There are numerous walking trails, for walkers of different levels and of different landscapes throughout the park. Over 100 kilometres of walking tracks take in a wide range of scenery - from forests to valleys to beaches - so you'll be spoilt for choice when it comes to taking photos.

The most popular walk is the Coast Walk, which wraps around the park's eastern edge and delivers breath taking coastal scenery. It is a 30 kilometre track, beginning from Bundeena to Otford, or vice versa. It's recommended that walkers allow 2 days for the walk.

Coast Walk

Photo Credit: http://www.cronullabeachyha.com

2. Boating and Canoeing 

The park offers two different landscapes for boating - the river system or along the coast line. Towra Beach is an area of protected wetlands, sand flats and seagrass that can only be reached by boat or paddling. A tranquil beach that's great for padding and exploring, so pack a picnic or build a sandcastle by its calm waters. Any visitors will mostly be of the winged kind; rare migrating birds wade the coastline. To reach Towra Beach, you'll need to bring your own canoes or kayaks.

If you’d like to go on a boating or paddling adventure inside the park, you can launch your canoe or kayak from the nearby boat ramp at Fitzpatrick Park.

Inside the park resides the Hacking River which offers affordable boat and canoe hire for a fun filled day out to explore the river system. Boat and canoe hire at the Audley Boat Hire starts at AUD$20 for 1 hour hire to $40 for a day hire. At the end of the river is a beautiful waterfall and rock beds - great place to rest and relax.

Audley Boat Hire (inside Royal National Park): http://www.audleyboatshed.com/index.html

Hacking River

Photo Credit: http://blog.thinadoukasphoto.com

3. Picnics and BBQs

When you’re pining for the feel of sand between your toes, take the family and head to Wattamolla Beach picnic area. With loads of options to keep everyone happy, this is a popular place to base yourself while you’re exploring the park. Unpack a picnic under the shade of the cabbage tree palms and do some serious unwinding, or have a delicious barbeque.

Cabbage Tree Basin is a great place for relaxing and to have picnics. The area even offers gas barbecues so you can cook up a feast.

If you’re looking to escape the city for a relaxing day near the river, head to picturesque Reids Flat picnic area. When it’s time for lunch, spark up a free gas barbecue and cook up a feast, then enjoy it on a rug or one of the nearby picnic tables.

Fitzpatrick Park is another excellent place for picnics and barbeques. Let the kids to kick a ball or throw a frisbee to work up an appetite. After a tasty picnic or barbecue lunch, relax on your picnic rug, take in some sunshine or set off on an exploration of the park.

Wattamolla Beach

Photo Credit: NSW Government

4. Cycling

Lady Carrington Drive is an easy bike trail that follows the Hacking River upstream from Audley. Cycling over 15 creeks, each identified by its Aboriginal name, you’ll pass blue gums, turpentines and patches of rainforest. Keep your ear out for the mimicking call of the lyrebird and your eyes peeled for lace monitors and echidnas.

Loftus loop trail is a 10km trail that is bound to get your heart rate up. You’ll cover 8km of trail, along with 2km of designated bike track. Terrain changes from flat, wide trails to steep, single-track trails that can be a little rocky under your tyres. There are some steep sections around Temptation Creek, so it’s best to walk these if you’re an inexperienced rider. This diverse terrain makes Loftus loop trail one of Royal National Park’s most enjoyable cycling trails.

Lady Carrington Drive

Photo Credit: David Finnegan/NSW Government

5. Swimming, Surfing and Snrokelling 

Wattamolla Beach lagoon offers safe and enjoyable calm waters for snorkelling, swimming and liloing for the whole family. After enjoying a barbecue lunch, go for a walk along one of the beach tracks, with a prize for the first to see a sea eagle or oystercatcher.

Wattle Forest picnic area offers a beautifully scenic place for a swim for the family. You could be tempted to while away a lazy afternoon in the shade by the river, serenaded by the cockatoos and currawongs, or join the kids for some swimming.

Garie Beach picnic area is the spot for swimming and surfing the waves in the warmer months. It’s an ideal spot for birdwatching, so bring the binoculars for a chance to glimpse an albatross, sea eagle, and the rarer peregrine falcon as they cruise on the updraft from coastal breezes. Please note, Garie Beach does not have lifeguards on duty.

Garie Beach

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

6. Beaches

If you want a day at the beach, the Royal National park offers an array of beaches to choose from.

• Jibbon Beach - offers scenic grounds, Aboriginal tours, fishing and swimming areas.
• Garie Beach - ideal for swimming, fishing and picnics on this gorgeous and family-friendly beach.
• Wattamolla Beach - a calm lagoon and sheltered cove with a sandy bar at the inlet, perfect for snorkelling.
• Werrong Beach - a secluded beach paradise for nudists.

Wattamolla Beach

Photo Credit: Andy Richards/NSW Government

7. Jet-skiing 

Morgans Creek picnic area is a riverside picnic area in Georges River National Park. It’s large and grassy, so an excellent choice for families with children who like lots of space to roam. Popular with anyone who likes to play on the river, you’ll find waterskiers and jetskiers as well as boaters and fishermen out enjoying the water. A dual width boat ramp and easy access from the carpark means you will be out on the water in no time. So take your jet ski down for an awesome ride.

Morgans Creek

Photo Credit: Andy Richards/NSW Government

8. Fishing

Fitzpatrick Park is just the place for a spot of family fishing – cast a line to try your hand at catching a luderick, mullet or mulloway. For beach fishing, you can't go past Wattamolla Beach for a spot of fishing. Jibbon Beach also offers a fantastic spot for fishing on the sands. Reids Flat picnic area provides a calm area for fishing.

Reids Flat

Photo Credit: Andy Richards/NSW Government

9. Whale Watching

Head to Garie Beach for a spot of whale watching in the winter. Every year, humpback whales and southern right whales migrate along the NSW coastline. They head north throughout June and in the first week of July, and return southwards from around September to November. If you're unsure of when to go to spot them, try a walking tour. Sydney Coast Walks (formerly known as Royal Coast Walks) provides expertly guided half day, full day and overnight walking and hiking adventures through Royal National Parks, enabling guests to reconnect with nature and experience the wonder of whale watching.

Sydney Coast Walks: http://www.sydneycoastwalks.com.au/

Whale Watching Sydney

Photo Credit: NSW Government

Accommodation 

Looking for suitable accommodation near the Royal National Park? Then look no further than the
Metro Hotel Miranda, strictly non-smoking, conveniently located in the Sutherland area and only a 10 minute drive to the Royal National Park. Situated in the premier corner position, our hotel suites have kitchenettes and magnificent views over Sydney city. The hotel is located across from Westfield Miranda and cafes and shops. Sutherland Hospital is only a 3 minute drive away from the hotel. For those coming by public transport, the hotel is only 5 minutes walk from Miranda train station.

Metro Hotel Miranda is the only hotel near Cronulla which does not impose minimum night stays.

Location: Cnr Kingsway and Jackson Ave, Miranda NSW 2228 Australia
Book Metro Hotel Miranda Online: http://www.metrohotels.com.au/hotels/new-south-wales/metro-hotel-miranda/welcome/

Hugh Jackman Announces Broadway to Oz National Tour

HUGH Jackman is returning home for a national concert tour. 
  
The Hollywood star has announced a five-city arena concert tour in November and December, Broadway To Oz, based on his hit Broadway show, Hugh Jackman: Back on Broadway.

The Golden Globe, Emmy and Tony Award winner promises a high-octane show taking audiences on a journey through his life so far, performing along with choirs, dancers and musicians.

“Anybody who knows me knows that keeping secrets is not my forte ... today is the announcement of a true bucket list moment for me,” Jackman told reporters in Sydney on Monday.

The production will showcase some of his biggest hits, including The Boy from Oz and Les Miserables, as well as a nod to his role as Wolverine in the X-Men film franchise.

“Broadway To Oz is a dream come true. This is THE show I’ve always wanted to bring home,” he said, promising fans, “You will get to know the real me.”

Jackman’s wife Deborra-Lee Furness and daughter Ava were present for the big announcement.
The eight-date concert tour will kick off in Melbourne on November 24, continuing on to Sydney, Perth, Adelaide and Brisbane.

TOURING NOV & DEC 2015 

Tickets go on sale on Monday August 31 from Ticketek. 

Top 3 Things To Do Near Miranda NSW Australia

Royal National Park 

for Canoeing, Boating, Cycling, Trekking & Whale Watching

Just south of Miranda is Sydney's beautiful heritage listed Royal National Park. A picturesque and expansive park nestled in south Sydney, with its east side facing the Tasman Sea. The Royal National Park covers a wide range of different terrain and ecosystems. It varies from forests with deep river valleys, to coastal cliffs dotted by beaches to landscapes of steep plateaus to mangroves and marshes. It also has small inlets and rock pools along the coastline.

A wonderful place to take the family or for a day of adventure with friends, the Royal National Park has something for everyone.

There are numerous cycling and walking trails, BBQ areas and picnic sites throughout the park. Over 100 kilometres of walking tracks take in a wide range of scenery. Cycling is allowed on fire trails and on specially marked tracks within the park. Try the Curra Moors loop track for cycling or the Karloo walking track for a moderate trek. For views of the sea, you can't go past the coast track. Also perfect for whale watching during the months of May to October.

You can hire a boat or canoe to row along Hacking River inside the park. Boat and canoe hire starts at AUD$20 for 1 hour hire to $40 for a day hire. The river ends near a beautiful mini waterfall where shallow river beds provide an excellent place to swim or dip on a hot day.

Audley Boat Hire (inside Royal National Park): http://www.audleyboatshed.com/index.html

For swimming, fishing and snorkelling activities within the park, the Wattamolla picnic area offers a popular spot for these activities. The kids will love the calm waters of the lagoon for snorkelling, swimming and liloing. Unpack a picnic under the shade of the cabbage tree palms and do some serious unwinding, or head to the beach for a spot of fishing.

If you didn't bring a picnic or food for BBQ, there is a cafe called Weir Cafe inside the park.

If you'd love a coastal experience without all the sand then this scenic lookout has all the bases covered: Governor Game lookout is a great spot for a break on a car tour of Royal National Park. It offers brilliant coastal views and lovely heathlands, is an ideal spot for birdwatching, and a great place for whale watching during the migratory season.

To find out where the whale watching hot spots are, visit this website for tracking: http://www.wildaboutwhales.com.au/WAW/Whale-Watching/Whales-Sighting-Map

A fee of $11.00 applies when taking a car into the Royal National Park.

Location: 159 Farnell Avenue, Royal National Park, NSW

Official website: http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/royal-national-park

How to get there: http://goaustralia.about.com/od/nswsightseeing/a/rnp4.htm

Sydney Tramway Museum

for a glimpse into the past

The Sydney Tramway Museum has an extensive collection of trams from cities all over Australia (including Sydney) and from around the world. There are two tram lines from the museum used to run tram rides for museum visitors. One line runs 1.5 km north almost to Sutherland railway station, paralleling Rawson Avenue. The second line utilises a former railway branch off CityRail's Illawarra railway line that is 2 km into the Royal National Park boarding Sydney's southern boundary. 

The Sydney Tramway Museum is run entirely by volunteers and self funds its day to day activities, restorations and construction programs from gate takings and donations from the public. A great place to visit and ride the trams for an interesting experience, travelling back in time.

Adult prices are $18 and kids tickets are $10. 

Official website: http://www.sydneytramwaymuseum.com.au

How to get there: http://www.sydneytramwaymuseum.com.au/location.html

Cronulla Beach

Cronulla beach, is a gorgeous beach located to the east of Miranda. A beautiful beach with expansive views of the deep blue ocean and clean beige sand, it's a perfect place for a swim or surf. Dotted with cafes and restaurants, there is something to do there for everyone. 

The name "Cronulla" is derived from an Aboriginal word kurranulla, meaning 'place of pink seashells'. Cronulla beach is the only beach that is patrolled in the winter months (check for flags before swimming). The beach is wheelchair accessible, has disabled toilets and a free beach wheelchair service.

If you dislike the crowds and dirty sand at Bondi, Cronulla beach offers a beautiful alternative.

Location: Cronulla NSW Australia

Accommodation 

Looking for suitable accommodation in Miranda? Then look no further than the Metro Hotel Miranda, decorated and strictly non-smoking, this brand new space also offers disabled rooms which have the option of an adjoining room. Situated in the premier corner position, our suites have kitchenettes and magnificent views over Sydney city.

For the shop-o-holics, Miranda's Westfield shopping centre - one of Australia's largest shopping and entertainment centres - is adjacent to the Metro Hotel Miranda, just a short stroll away. While at the same time Metro Hotel Miranda offers a close proximity to Cronulla Beach - a ten minute drive away or five minute train ride away. And for your peace of mind, a large public hospital is near by - Sutherland Hospital - only a fifteen minute walk away. Metro Hotel Miranda is the only hotel near Cronulla which does not impose minimum night stays.

Metro Hotel Miranda Location: Cnr Kingsway and Jackson Ave, Miranda NSW 2228 Australia

Book Here: www.metrohotels.com.au/hotels/new-south-wales/metro-hotel-miranda/welcome/

All rooms are newly renovated, modern and beautifully furnished. 

Orion Lagoon Opening - Robelle Domain at Springfield Central Ipswich 5th September 2015

A NEW world class lagoon swimming pool has been completed and ready for launch at Robelle Domain. It will be one of the biggest public lagoon-style swimming pools in Australia.

The exciting new lagoon at Robelle Domain at Springfield Central is nearing completion so what better way to celebrate the start of Spring and the warmer days with a splash around the new lagoon!

There will be lots of fun happening at the opening event including roving performers, entertainment, and of course the lagoon will be open for swimmers!

Springfield Markets in the park area of Robelle Domain will also be in full swing with entertainment, inflatable rides and fireworks at 7.30 pm!

Saturday, 5 September 2015
12.00 pm – 3.00 pm: Lagoon Opening Activities
12.00 pm – 8.00 pm: Springfield Markets

Access via Sinnathamby Boulevard, Springfield Central:

• FREE entry (food and beverages available for purchase)
• Alcohol free event
• Limited free parking will be available from 8.00 am – 8.00 pm.

The new swimming lagoon will be a much-desired attraction in Robelle Domain, and along with other water bodies cover a total area of 2,500 square metres.

This makes it one of Australia's largest outdoor recreation facilities of its kind.

Ipswich Mayor Paul Pisasale said a review of the original plans and budget enabled council to include a zero to over a metre depth swimming lagoon equal in size to Southbank's famous beach pool.

The lagoon will cater for the local community and families right across the western corridor.
"We are committed to a city that is happy, lively and a place where people can't wait to bring their kids.

"Whether that's to have an ice cream and a splash in the lagoon on the weekend, or to make a permanent home for the family, everyone is welcome in Ipswich and we can't wait to see you.

"This is a decision by all councillors, and I want to thank them for their strategic vision and their dedication to the Ipswich of tomorrow.

"This lagoon also takes pressure off the capital and provides an ideal recreational destination for residents of all cities along the western corridor.

"Enhanced lighting, landscaping, seating, bbqs and water fountains will also be installed to make this a true recreation destination.

"Installation of Safe City CCTV cameras is planned as a future enhancement.

"These works will be a boost for the local economy with a number of jobs created during the construction phase of the project and an additional 15 full time jobs per annum for the city once the lagoon is in full operation," Cr Pisasale said.

Parks, Sport and Recreation Committee Chairperson and Division 1 Cr David Morrison said this decision will be welcomed by all local residents and families.

"The 3.74 hectare development that includes the lagoon, new green space and walking tracks brings together Robelle Domain, Orion Town Centre, Springfield Central train station, Education City and the Parklands Business District into a single unified hub.

"Being able to do some shopping at Orion, enjoy a gourmet al fresco lunch and then stroll through beautiful parklands to take the kids for a dip is in the immediate future for local residents.

"It's going to be great and as the local Councillor I am thrilled.

Springfield Land Corporation deputy chairman Bob Sharpless welcomed the commencing of works and confirmation of the lagoon pool.

"This is another significant milestone in the history of the Springfield Central town centre," Mr Sharpless said.

"Just as South Bank has done, this South Bank at Springfield will become a tourism destination for tens of thousands of visitors with major economic flow-ons also to be  expected across the Ipswich region."

The new South Bank size lagoon parkland is expected to attract 100,000 visitors a year.

Sources: http://www.ipswich.qld.gov.au/about_council/media/article-archive/2014/green-light-for-swimming-lagoon-at-robelle-domain
http://www.ipswich.qld.gov.au/about_ipswich/news_and_events/events/robelle-domain-lagoon-opening

CRIKEY! Madame Tussauds Sydney unveils world first wax figure of Australian icon Steve Irwin

Steve Irwin wax figure

Crocodile Hunter Steve Irwin was today honoured in sublime wax form at Madame Tussauds Sydney with the official unveiling of the world’s first wax likeness of the late Aussie icon.

Almost nine years since his passing, Steve Irwin’s wax figure will pay tribute to the Crocodile Hunter’s legacy as a respected wildlife expert, television personality and conservationist, and will feature as a permanent addition in the Darling Harbour attraction’s ‘TV Zone’.



“We were thrilled when Madame Tussauds approached us to create Steve’s wax figure. As a family we are continuing Steve’s legacy at Australia Zoo and carrying on where Steve left off with his global conservation work with Wildlife Warriors,” said the late Crocodile Hunter’s wife, Terri Irwin.

“The team at Madame Tussauds have done an incredible job with the figure; I’m truly amazed at how much work has gone into making his likeness as authentic as possible. His wax figure will assist keeping Steve’s memory, and his mission to protect wildlife and wild places, alive. ”

Whilst the traditional Madame Tussauds figure-making process sees the subject undergoing a thorough two day face-to-face ‘sitting’, the creative journey behind Steve’s figure required a collaborative approach with the Irwin family to capture the late Aussie icon’s exact likeness.

With the aid of a comprehensive photographic brief, a dedicated team of talented Madame Tussauds artists and sculptors spent over four months meticulously recreating every detail of Steve’s expressions and body including individually inserting each strand of hair on his head, face and chest one-by-one, a process which took the team over one month to complete.



To add to the authenticity of the Crocodile Hunter’s wax figure, the Irwin family kindly donated Steve’s original trademark khaki shirt and shorts, along with his socks and desert boots.

Steve Hinks, General Manager of Madame Tussauds Sydney said unveiling Steve’s wax figure today is an exciting time for the attraction’s domestic and international visitors, and remarked: “Steve Irwin was a true blue Aussie bloke, whose infectious personality and extreme love of wildlife captured hearts around the globe. It is an honour for Madame Tussauds Sydney to serve as the permanent home for the wax figure of Steve Irwin.”

“Since Madame Tussauds Sydney opened in 2013, Steve Irwin has been our most requested figure, so we have no doubt his amazingly lifelike wax figure will be extremely popular with our guests.”
Now on public display with the iconic Australian outback as the backdrop for the adventure, visitors can come face-to-face with the international icon and even don the iconic khaki outfits Steve Irwin was synonymous with!

Joining a long list of esteemed Australian personalities at Madame Tussauds Sydney including Nicole Kidman, Kylie Minogue, Rod Laver and Donald Bradman all under one roof, the all-new Steve Irwin display impeccably captures the spirit of Australia.

From Australian politicians to sporting legends, Madame Tussauds Sydney is a must-see, unique attraction in the heart of Darling Harbour that promises interactive and unique fun for the whole family.

Address: Madame Tussauds Sydney, Aquarium Wharf, Darling Harbour SYDNEY N.S.W.
Opening Hours: From 9:30am
Phone: 1-800-205-851

Shatner Show Coming To Australia - Shatner's World

William Shatner has announced that his Broadway show, Shatner’s World…We Just Live In It, is coming to Australia.

The first show will begin Sunday, October 11, in Brisbane.

“I’ve done this one-man show on Broadway and in many cities across the United States,” said Shatner. “At the curtain call, the audiences’ reaction, their love and appreciation, moved me to tears. This show has been one of the highlights of my life.”

Other cities where Shatner’s World will be performed include Adelaide, Perth, Sydney, and Melbourne.

Tickets go on sale July 27 (pre-sale) and August 3 (general public). 

ABOUT SHATNER'S WORLD 

In SHATNER'S WORLD…a one man force of nature delivers a larger than life performance complete with his laugh-out-loud humor, signature storytelling and select musical selections in his inimitable style.

Through anecdotes, songs, jokes and even some poignant moments, you will experience William Shatner 's phenomenal path from classically trained Shakespearean actor to cultural icon, brilliantly creating the larger-than-life and most important character he has ever played, William Shatner.
Who Am I, Really? 

I haven’t saved the universe countless times (or even once), but a part of me is Captain Kirk. 

I’m not a hard-bitten, L.A. cop, but a part of me is T.J. Hooker. 

I’m not an addled (well, maybe), high-powered attorney, but a part of me is Denny Crane. 

I’ve had many other roles, on-screen and off… 

Husband, father, friend. Horseman, Singer, Philanthropist, NEGOTIATOR. 

All of the parts contribute to the whole, 

AND IT MAKES FOR ONE HELL OF A STORY!

I’ve been kissed hundreds (maybe thousands) of times on screen, yet only loved a few. 

And perhaps most importantly, I’ve been killed 19 times, and yet I am still standing here in front of you ready to go another 80 years.

Metro Hotels Has Accommodation in:

Brisbane
Melbourne
Perth
Sydney

Ten Reasons Why You Should Check Out the Gladstone Show

THE Gladstone Show kicks off tomorrow, so we've put together a list of ten things on offer not to be missed.

Ten Reasons Why You Should Check Out the Gladstone Show 

1. First trucks: The monster trucks are here and ready to cause some mayhem. Gladstone will get to see a brand new monster truck never seen before in Australia. The performance will begin from 6pm Wednesday and consist of car crushing and other tricks. 

2. Motor cross: Zac Mckenzie and Jake May will perform their latest tricks including back flips at the free style motor cross event on their motorbikes. The performance will begin after the monster trucks (which start at 6pm) as part of the night performances in the show ring. 

3. Wedding cakes: Wedding cakes on display! Some cake entries have been reported to be up to 1m high in this competition. Anyone can enter, as long as they have a killer cake recipe. 

4. Syco Sam: Rolling completely on its roof with flashing lights underneath, the Syco Sam bus is one of the all day rides available at the show. It is a kid's favourite Australia-wide. 

5. Horticulture: The show will include a horticulture tent holding some of Gladstone's rarest and finest plants on display all day. In previous years organisers have had to re-arrange the tent to make room for all the entries. 

6. Bar: Adults can head to the bar throughout the day if they are feeling a bit thirsty after an action packed ride with the kids, or just want to relax and have a drink and watch the performances. 

7. Arts and crafts: The arts and crafts tent will be open all day; with award-winning art and needle work and photography on display. Anyone can enter their own exhibits for all of Gladstone to see. 

8. Food: Dagwood dogs and hot chips; what better way to celebrate Show day than by indulging in some of the great show foods on offer all over the showgrounds from the moment the gates open to the finish. 

9. Show bags: Everybody loves a show bag, and the Gladstone show promises to have hundreds of different show bags, from Spiderman to Dora the Explorer. 

10. Fireworks: If you love fireworks, the Gladstone Show is the place for you. To finish off the night there will be a firework show. Stay until 8.30 pm to watch.