Post ATE 2013 Famil Program Taronga Western Plains Zoo 1 – 2 May 2013 Western Hemisphere

*Please note itineraries are subject to change* *All accommodation and activities will be confirmed prior to your departure*

Taronga Western Plains Zoo in is the largest attraction in regional NSW. It’s an open range Zoo, which means that you won’t notice the moats and barriers that keep the animals safely in their enclosures. The Zoo is home to over 700 animals including many rare and endangered species such as Black Rhinos and Cheetah. Visitors can get around the Zoo’s 6km circuit by car, bike, electric cart or on foot. The Zoo offers a range of daily activities including talks, tours and encounters. A free access Savannah Visitor Plaza includes the Zoo Shop, café and playground overlooking the Savannah Lake and Primate Islands.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo is the home of the award winning Zoofari Lodge overnight experience. Nestled in the heart of the Zoo’s African Savannah section, Zoofari Lodge offers unique accommodation and exclusive behind-the-scenes tours. Zoofari consists of a series of African-style tented lodges with ensuite facilities and heated floor tiles, and a stunning Main House recently updated with a contemporary African influence. The Main House includes a fully licensed restaurant and bar, lounge area and outdoor saltwater swimming pool. The 12 individual lodges are located in native bushland just a few steps from a huge area where several species of African animals roam. Zoo admission, bike hire and meals are all included in the Zoofari Lodge package.

There are many other things to do in the Dubbo area. Take a heritage walk to admire Dubbo's historic buildings or visit the Western Plains Cultural Centre. Don't miss a visit to Old Dubbo Gaol which re-creates 19th century prison life. Enjoy lunch at tranquil Shoyoen Sister City Garden or a relaxing riding lesson at the Western Plains Riding Centre.

Your Taronga Western Plains Zoo contact is:

Susan Rollason, Business Development Manager T: + 2 9978 4683 M: + 61 428006710 E: [email protected] W: www.taronga.org.au

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

We recommend you pack: A rain jacket A warm sweater/jacket for nights Water bottle Comfortable walking shoes Camera Sunglasses & Hat Sunscreen Umbrella Spending money

Australian Smoking Laws: Federal law bans smoking in all Australian Commonwealth government buildings, public transport, airports and international and domestic flights. Further bans are in place but are governed by individual states. Most Australian states and territories have banned smoking in enclosed public places, particularly workplaces and restaurants.

Australian Voltage: Australia uses 220-240 voltage with a three flat pin. Battery chargers for digital cameras, laptops and other electrical equipment will display the input range and as long as this is within the 220-240v range it will work with just a socket converter. If not, it is possible to purchase a transformer that will increase or decrease the Australian voltage as necessary.

Dress Code The dress code for the famil is casual during the day and smart casual for evening activities. We recommend bringing a warm jacket for evenings.

Currency Although credit cards and ATMs are readily available, it is a good idea to exchange some money for smaller purchases.

Climate The warmest months are December to February, with an average maximum temperature of 25ºC. The average minimum temperature from June to August is 9ºC. Warmer clothing and enclosed walking shoes/boots are recommended for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Warm jacket suggested for evenings. This itinerary includes: accommodation, tours, transfers and meals as specified. All other items and expenses of a personal nature, or noted “own arrangements” or “own expense” are to be met by the participant.

Please note your itinerary arrangements do not include: • Items of a personal nature (e.g. Mini bar, videos, beauty salon) • Laundry service • Telephone, internet access or other communication costs • Travel Insurance or Visas • Tipping • Drinks and alcohol - unless specified otherwise • Meals - unless specified as hosted

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DAY 1 – Wednesday, 1 May 2013 (L,D)

0615 Arrive Sydney Central Station and meet your Destination NSW Escort.

0645 Board the Dubbo XPT, Countrylink Train. (Train and/or flight options to be confirmed)

Countrylink Contact: Giles Gosman T: 13 22 32 /+61 2 4907 7501 E: giles.gosman@.nsw.gov.au W: www.countrylink.info

Travelling long distances by train has been part of the Australian way of life for over 150 years. CountryLink continues that tradition by carrying almost two million passengers every year to over 365 destinations in NSW, Queensland, the ACT and .

CountryLink is part of the government-owned Rail Corporation which also operates CityRail which provides the passenger rail service covering the greater Sydney region.

Our XPT and Xplorer trains provide a safe, comfortable and relaxing way to travel while sitting back in air-conditioned comfort watching the magnificent Australian landscape roll by. Our trains connect with the largest network of coaches in Australia to service almost every corner of NSW and beyond.

0710 Dubbo XPT departs Sydney Central Station.

Dubbo is a seven hour stress-free rail trip from Sydney by the CountryLink XPT. Sit back and enjoy the air-conditioned on-board café and soak up the scenery.

1340 Arrive Dubbo on the XPT. Transfer by shuttle bus to Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

1400 Arrive Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

Taronga Western Plains Zoo Contact: Susan Rollason – Business Development Manager P: +61 2 9978 4683 E: [email protected] W: www.taronga.org.au/taronga-western-plains-zoo

Check into the Savannah and Serengeti Lodges.

Nestled amongst the native forest behind the African Savannah section at Taronga Western Plains Zoo, Zoofari Lodge comprises twelve luxurious African-style canvas covered lodges.

Zoofari Lodge has two types of lodges available: Savannah and Serengeti. The Savannah Lodges sleep up to four people while the Serengeti Lodges sleep up to six people and are slightly larger. The Savannah Lodges consist of a double bed and two single beds, while the Serengeti Lodges have a queen bed, two single beds and a sofa bed.

All lodges are equipped to make your stay as comfortable as possible with a private ensuite, mini bar, coffee and tea making facilities, fridge, reading lamps, radio/alarm, shaded verandah and outdoor furniture. All bedding, linen and towels are provided.

Enjoy a refreshment at the Lodge House Bar.

1530 Depart on the guided Sunset Safari Tour.

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1700 Time to rest, take a dip in the saltwater pool or relax on your veranda before freshening up for dinner.

1900 Dinner in the Main House, African style banquet dinner .

Start by unwinding with a beverage on the Main House verandah and immerse yourself in the peace and tranquility of this secluded location.

Enjoy an African style banquet dinner, carefully prepared by the Zoofari Lodge chef. A culinary experience with an abundance of aromas and flavours that will stimulate your senses. The delectable menu is complimented with an excellent range of wines as well as full bar service.

2030 Set off on a nighttime guided Zoo under Spotlight Tour.

2130 Return to the Lodge House for a night cap at the bar or try a little star gazing .

Overnight: Taronga Western Plains Zoo

DAY 2 – Thursday, 2 May 2013 (B,L)

0650 Time to rise and shine for the guided Early Morning Jaunt Tour.

Learn a little more about this amazing open range zoo and see what early morning activity goes on.

0815 Breakfast

Now the animals have breakfast, it’s time for the guests to have theirs (cooked breakfast at the Main House)!

1000 The overnight Zoofari Experience concludes and time to journey around to the Zoo’s Australian section.

1030 Continue onwards to the main entrance to learn about the new accommodation developments at Taronga Western Plains Zoo.

1100 Depart for Western Plains Cultural Centre

1110 Visit Western Plains Cultural Centre.

Western Plains Cultural Centre 76 Wingewarra Street, Dubbo NSW 2830 T: + 61 2 6801 4444 E: [email protected] W: www.wpccdubbo.org.au

Dubbo's new state of the art cultural centre houses both the City's art gallery and its museum. Exhibitions include travelling displays and permanent collections. They're closed Tuesdays. The Gallery's collection focuses on 'The Animal in Art' and includes sculptures, children's book illustrations, works by George Lambert and other two dimensional works in a variety of media. The Gallery also offers regular changing exhibitions (about every six weeks). For more information contact the gallery direct.

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1230 Lunch

1345 Arrive Old Dubbo Gaol for guided tour .

Old Dubbo Gaol 90 Macquarie Street, Dubbo, NSW 2830 T: + 61 2 6801 4460 E: [email protected] W: www.olddubbogaol.com.au

Old Dubbo Gaol is one of the most popular tourist attractions in country New South Wales. The fully restored 1800s Gaol is enhanced with some of the latest technology in entertainment. Animatronics and hologram exhibits bring to life the stories and atmosphere of this fascinating place and relic of pioneering Australia.

Suitable for visitors of all ages, the Old Dubbo Gaol caters for all levels of interest especially families. You will meet, hear and see the Condemned Man, the Ghost of Old Dubbo Gaol, the Executioner and the Gallows. Experience the eerie silence of solitary confinement, view the living conditions and examples of prison labour, inspect actual prisoner records and discover their crimes and sentences.

1400 Guided tour begins

1500 Guided tour concludes.

1515 Transfer to Royal Flying Doctor Service.

1530 Arrive Royal Flying Doctor Service Dubbo Base Education Centre.

Royal Flying Doctor Service Dubbo Base Education Centre Contact: Terry Cooreena Road on the northern side of the Dubbo Airport T: 0407 444690 W: www.flyingdoctor.org.au/about-us/visitor-centres

The Royal Flying Doctor Service Dubbo Base Education Centre opened in July 2011, the Education Centre at the Royal Flying Doctor Service Dubbo Base is a "must see" attraction.

• See the live saving work this Australian icon does for people who live, work and travel in remote Australia. • Hear how Reverend John Flynn visualised a "mantle of safety" over remote Australia more than 80 years ago. • Learn about the development and operations of the Dubbo Base and see RFDS history and memorabilia. • See real life medical footage of RFDS doctors, nurses and pilots doing their job.

1630 Transfer to Dubbo Airport.

1645 Arrive Dubbo Airport.

1730 Depart Dubbo for Sydney on QF2039 .

1830 Arrive Sydney. Own arrangements

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DESTINATION NSW FAMIL PARTICIPATION RELEASE FORM

You agree to take part in the Activities set out in the itinerary (annexure A) on the following terms:

1. In this Release, "Activities" includes without limitation: all international and domestic flights; transfers, transport; accommodation; touring; attractions and any other activity which is part of the familiarisation.

2. By accepting the offer of Destination NSW to visit Sydney/New South Wales, you agree to the terms set in this Release.

3. You agree to comply with the directions of the person operating the familiarisation and any other instructions Destination NSW gives you concerning the familiarisation or the Activities.

4. Destination NSW has taken reasonable care in arranging the familiarisation. However, Destination NSW has relied on information provided by facility or services operators and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy or completeness of that information.

5. Destination NSW may cancel or suspend an Activity or the familiarisation or your involvement in it for any reason at any time.

6. To the extent the law allows, Destination NSW excludes all express and implied warranties, including as to the familiarisation and the content of the Activities or their suitability for any purpose.

7. As part of your participation in this program, you agree to take out and maintain all appropriate insurance including relevant personal travel and medical insurances.

8. You participate in the familiarisation and the Activities at your sole discretion and risk. Destination NSW is not liable for any expense, loss, damage, injury, sickness, death or accident you or any other person suffers or incurs directly or indirectly as a result of the familiarisation or the Activities (including consequential or indirect loss) or otherwise arising out of your participation in the familiarisation and Activities, whether that loss or damage is due to our negligence, default, another tort or for any common law or statutory action.

9. You acknowledge that, in addition to the usual dangers and inherent risks of any activity, this familiarisation has certain additional dangers and risks, which you accept by participating, some of which may include: • physical exertion for which you may not be prepared; • the increased possibility of accident, injury or death due to the nature of the Activities; and • remoteness from normal medical services.

10. I understand that the Activities may be organised and provided by other parties other than Destination NSW and that Destination NSW is not liable for the acts of these other parties.

11. I also understand that there may be risks involved which are not known to me or to Destination NSW and may not be foreseen or reasonably foreseeable by any of us at this time or at the time of the carrying out of the Activities.

12. I assume all of the risks associated with my participation in the Activities and I warrant that I am voluntarily assuming all responsibility for my participation in the Activities, including any loss or damage suffered by me as a result of my participation in the Activities.

13. I warrant that I am physically fit to participate in the Activities, that I do not suffer from any medical condition which participation in the Activities is or is likely to put me at higher risk of injury. If you have a medical condition which may affect participation in the Activities or is likely to put me at higher risk of injury, we recommend not participating. Please advise us of any medical conditions, special dietary requirements and/or allergies.

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14. I hereby release and forever discharge and agree to save and hold harmless Destination NSW and their directors, officers, employees, agents, the lessors and lessees or licensors and licensees of any food, drink, property, facilities or equipment consumed and/or used in connection with the Activities and other participants (“the released parties”) from any and all injuries (including personal injury, disability, dismemberment and death) illness, losses, damage, claims, liabilities or expenses, of any kind or nature (whether accruing to me, my heirs or my personal representatives) that are caused or alleged to be caused in whole or in part by the action, negligence, failure to act or condition of the food, drink, property, facilities or equipment of any released party that arise out of or in connection with my participation in the Activities and I agree that Destination NSW may plead this agreement as a complete defence to any claim brought by me, my heirs or successors in contravention of the terms of this agreement.

15. You agree to abide and comply with all relevant laws whilst in Australia.

16. As part of the Activities you may travel by a mode of transport (i.e. car) which is operated by someone else. You agree that Destination NSW is not liable for the acts of the operator. Destination NSW does not warrant that the operator has a particular skill level of operating the mode of transport and you participate in this component of the Activities at your own risk acknowledging that there may be risks involved which are not known to me or to Destination NSW and may not be foreseen or reasonably foreseeable by any of us at this time or at the time of the carrying out of this component of the Activities.

17. You will complete an image/footage release form as outlined in Annexure B.

TERMS & CONDITIONS OF FAMILIARISATION

The NSW visit is outlined in your itinerary.

Please note your itinerary will not include the following items in which such payment remains the liability of you:

1. Items of personal nature (such as room service, mini bar, movie channels, laundry service, beauty treatments, etc.); 2. Telephone, internet, wifi, fax or other communication costs unless specified in the itinerary; 3. Insurance; 4. Meals, drinks and alcohol – unless specified in the itinerary.

You will receive a final confirmed itinerary within two weeks prior to travel.

Your itinerary will be designed with the aim to increase your knowledge of Sydney and/or regional New South Wales.

It is compulsory to attend itinerary inclusions.

Please contact Destination NSW prior to departing for Australia if you have any concerns regarding the itinerary.

You must have a valid passport and necessary visa documentation for entry into Australia.

You are not allowed to change the itinerary.

Destination NSW reserves the right to change the itinerary at any time.

An evaluation and feedback from must be completed within the time-frame requested. This will be provided by Destination NSW after the conclusion of your visit.

It is mandatory for you to conduct yourself in a responsible and professional manner throughout your visit.

Any medical conditions/allergies/special dietary requirements must be advised.

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