DESTINATION NSW MEDIA KIT 2019 KIT MEDIA NSW DESTINATION

Destination NSW PR and Communications team Street address: Level 2 88 Cumberland Street NSW 2000 MEDIA KIT 2019 Postal address: GPO Box 7050, Sydney NSW 2001 T +61 (0) 2 9931 1111 F +61 (0) 2 9931 1490 W destinationnsw.com.au

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visitnsw.com Tweed Heads

Byron Bay Ballina

NEW SOUTH WALES Lightning Ridge Moree NORTH COAST Grafton

Bourke

Coffs Harbour Armidale

White Cliffs Tamworth Coonabarabran Cobar Port Macquarie OUTBACK NSW COUNTRY NSW

Broken Hill Taree LORD HOWE ISLAND Menindee HUNTER Mudgee VALLEY PORT STEPHENS NEWCASTLE Parkes

Mungo National Park Orange Bathurst BLUE MOUNTAINS CENTRAL COAST SYDNEY Wentworth Griffith SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS Hay WOLLONGONG

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Deniliquin MURRAY Moruya Drive times Distance Drive time Cooma Locations Montague Island (kms) (hours and minutes) SNOWY Sydney — Albury 553 5.33 MOUNTAINS SOUTH COAST Merimbula Sydney — Broken Hill 1160 12.51 Sydney — Dubbo 391 5.03

Sydney — Eden 546 6.04

Sydney — Katoomba 102 1.34

Sydney — Moree 627 7.21

Sydney — Newcastle 163 2.21

Sydney — Port Macquarie 386 4.20

KEY: Sydney — Tweed Heads 817 9.02 Commercial Airport Sydney — Wollongong 90 1.25 OVERVIEW ABOUT DESTINATION NSW

Destination NSW is the lead government With a vision to establish Sydney and NSW as reward programs; and strives to achieve the Minister for Tourism and Major Events. agency for the tourism one of the world’s most successful tourism the NSW Government’s goal of tripling the It is principally funded by the NSW and major events sectors. Established destinations, Destination NSW develops and 2009 overnight visitor expenditure within the Government and is part of a cluster of under the Destination NSW Act 2011, delivers initiatives to drive visitor growth State’s visitor economy by 2030. agencies under the responsibility of the Secretary of the Department of Industry. Destination NSW’s charter is to achieve throughout the State; secure major sporting As a Public Service Executive Agency, economic and social benefits for the people and cultural events; work in partnership Destination NSW is governed by a Board of of NSW through the development of tourism with Business Events Sydney to win major Management and is subject to the direction of and securing of major events. international conventions and incentive travel

2 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 OVERVIEW • 3 CONTENTS

Experience NSW...... 7 What's New...... 19 Famous Flowers...... 33 Aboriginal Culture...... 39 Hot Destination: Mudgee...... 45 Road Trips...... 51 Secret Sydney...... 59 Luxury Redefined...... 65 Infrastructure...... 75 Cruise...... 83 Air...... 89 Events...... 93

4 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 OVERVIEW • 5 EXPERIENCE NSW

Edged with over 1,000km of Pacific coastline, New South Wales is one of ’s most geographically diverse States, boasting vast outback plains to alpine high country and glorious pockets of rainforest, not to mention one of the world’s most striking cities, Sydney.

6 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 EXPERIENCE NSW • 7 SYDNEY SHORT BREAKS

Beyond the urban cool of Sydney discover once-in-a-lifetime adventures, from whale watching to wine tasting, sand surfing to rock climbing and more. These handpicked mini breaks are less than three hours drive from the CBD.

BLUE MOUNTAINS One and a half hours drive* Just beyond Sydney are the dramatic landscapes of the Blue Mountains, where sightseers soak up iconic views from lofty lookouts, explore cool climate gardens, discover secret bushland waterfalls, and stay in heritage accommodation nestled against mountain-backed bushland. Home to the famous Three Sisters rock formation and the steepest incline railway in the world, the Blue Mountains has long been a drawcard for adventurers, with bushwalking, rock climbing and a cooler climate with altitudes of up to 1,000 metres.

THE HUNTER VALLEY Two and a half hours drive Australia’s oldest wine growing region is just a couple of hours drive from Sydney. The Hunter Valley is renowned for its semillon and shiraz varietals, acclaimed wineries and restaurants, luxury resorts nestled amongst vineyards, world class spas and championship golf courses. Wander through the wine-tasting hotspot of DISCOVER SYDNEY AND NSW Pokolbin, explore the majestic Hunter Valley gardens, picnic amongst the vines on fresh local produce and don’t miss spying the lush The iconic metropolis of Sydney sits amid encounters with wildlife at Taronga Zoo, Hunter from above in a hot air balloon. extraordinary natural beauty with a sparkling Sydney is a global go-to destination. Beyond Harbour, ocean pools and national parks, the Harbourside city is the expansive beauty of as well as vibrant cultural diversity and New South Wales, where travellers from far fascinating colonial history. From a dip at and wide traverse the dramatic landscapes, , to dining under the sails of the buzzing coastal cities, world heritage world famous or close wilderness and pristine white sand beaches. *distances are approximate

8 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 EXPERIENCEXXXXXXXXXXXXX NSW • 9 PORT STEPHENS Two and a half hours drive LORD HOWE ISLAND Port Stephens has 26 golden beaches, a bay more than twice the size of Sydney Harbour Two hours flight and many beautiful inlets. Outside the Immerse yourself in the jaw-dropping hikers. Tropical and cooler waters collide shelter of the bay you’ll find the rolling surf of beauty of this World Heritage paradise just in the ocean around Lord Howe, resulting stunning One Mile Beach, and further South, two hours’ flight from Sydney. The island in the world’s southernmost reef, rare Australia’s largest coastal dune system measures less than 11km end to end and corals, green and hawksbill turtles and 500 where you can explore ancient indigenous barely 3km across, and only 400 visitors are species of fish – perfect for scuba diving and sites on a quad bike cultural tour across allowed at any one time. Lord Howe Island's snorkelling. Stay in a luxury lodge, enliven Stockton Dunes. Port Stephens is home to famous twin peaks, breathtaking views and your senses with a spa treatment and soak around 150 bottlenose dolphins with plenty natural make it ideal for walkers and up the tropical ambience. of boat tours departing from Nelson Bay. As the sun sets, dine on freshly caught seafood alfresco at Nelson Bay or Tea Gardens.

CENTRAL COAST One and a half hours drive Just over an hour North of Sydney, the Central Coast is a diverse region known for its pristine beaches, verdant countryside, winding waterways and laid back lifestyle. There’s a new beach to discover every day and some of the State’s best surfing, snorkelling and diving, as well as coastal walking tracks, mountain bike trails and wildlife encounters. Paddle a kayak in search of the elusive platypus in Wyong, drop six storeys on the world’s longest rollercoaster zip line and ride a horse through the enchanting Glenworth Valley.

SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS Two hours drive You'll find plenty of ways to de-stress with spa treatments, golf, bushwalking or canoeing down the peaceful river. Known for its heritage villages and old world charm, fresh local produce is on offer throughout the area at country accommodation in Berrima, Mittagong, Moss Vale and Kangaroo Valley. Enjoy genuine country hospitality in cosy B&B accommodation or a grand country manor. You'll find plenty of ways to de-stress with a soothing spa treatment, playing golf, going bushwalking or canoeing down a peaceful river.

10 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 EXPERIENCE NSW • 11 OUTBACK NSW

Rich red earth meets endless blue skies million-year-old water comes straight from in the NSW Outback, a place that’s unlike the ground. Spend some time in the unofficial anywhere else on earth. Discover ancient capital of the Outback, Broken Hill, and walk Aboriginal sites and rock art that’s been the streets of historic country towns that are preserved for thousands of years, explore lined with heritage sandstone buildings. The the otherworldly landscapes of the Mungo Outback is a place for off-road adventures, National Park, search for glittering black camping under the stars and sharing a drink opals and soak in artesian bores where two- with the locals in a remote pub.

COUNTRY NSW

Get a taste of authentic Aussie charm in outdoor adventures, from bushwalking and Country NSW. Eat and drink your way around mountain biking to horse riding, fishing, rock the wineries of Orange and Mudgee, marvel climbing and more. Travel in Autumn for rich at the heavens in the Warrumbungle Dark Sky colourful foliage or Spring for fields of pastel Park, join a lion safari at Taronga Western blossoms. You’ll find warm country hospitality Plains Zoo or take a lazy road trip through and welcoming locals everywhere you go, historic towns and working farmland. There’s making for a truly unforgettable stay. an ever-changing landscape that’s made for

12 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 EXPERIENCE NEWEXPERIENCE SOUTH WALES NSW • 13 NORTH COAST

The North Coast traces the intricate coastline at Australia’s most Easterly Point at the along New South Wales from the Tweed in the Lighthouse in Cape Byron and perhaps catch North down to Port Stephens. With artisan sight of a whale as they migrate to warmer shopping, iconic surf breaks, rainforest trails, waters each year from May to November. and secluded rock pools to swim and snorkel Follow a food trail through tea, macadamia or in, the North Coast offers an enchanting and banana plantations, eat at hatted restaurants diverse holiday experience. Watch the sunrise or enjoy fish and chips by the beach.

SOUTH COAST

Head South from Sydney and unwind at sands in the world, spot whales close to your own pace on the beautiful South Coast, shore, see kangaroos in the wild, savour stretching from Stanwell Park all the way to freshly shucked oysters on Australia’s Oyster Eden on the Sapphire Coast. This beautiful Coast, and enjoy a range of water sports, region is home to charming towns, deserted cycling and bushwalking. The South Coast is beaches, unforgettable experiences, an ideal self-drive destination, with the scenic spectacular wilderness, and a thriving food Grand Pacific Drive winding its way along the and wine scene. Relax on some of the whitest coast between Sydney and Melbourne.

14 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 EXPERIENCE NSW • 15 SNOWY MOUNTAINS

The magnificent alpine scenery of the Snowy that showcases four distinct seasons, with Mountains — or The Snowies as they’re snow-covered slopes in Winter and alpine affectionately known — is characterised lakes edged with fields of wildflowers in by incredible mountain peaks, snow Summer. It’s home to Australia’s highest gum woodlands and rolling plains dotted peak Mount Kosciuszko and attracts with ancient boulders, with much of the adventurers all year round, with hiking, Snowy Mountains region incorporated into mountain biking, fly fishing for trout in the Kosciuszko National Park. Australia’s high warmer months, and skiing, snowboarding country is one of few places in Australia and powder play in Winter.

RIVERINA MURRAY

Discover the food bowl of NSW, a rich Kelly in . Visit the region in Spring agricultural region on the banks of the mighty to follow the bright golden flowers of the . Take a cruise along the river Canola Trail. Take some time out for a glass in a restored century-old paddle-steamer, of wine ¬- the Riverina produces one quarter see koalas in the wild at , visit of Australia’s wine and there are more than the State’s largest inland city, Wagga Wagga, a dozen wineries in the region, including big and walk in the footsteps of bushranger Ned names like De Bortolli and McWilliams.

16 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 EXPERIENCE NSW • 17 WHAT'S NEW

The latest hotel openings, restaurant launches, brand new bars and exciting experiences around Sydney and New South Wales.

CABN Kangaroo Valley 18 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 Credit: Murray Fredricks WHAT’S NEW • 19 ACCOMMODATION

SYDNEY is set to be the city’s new Four Points by Sheraton Sydney with almost hotel hub. The high rise Sofitel Darling 300 rooms and suites, an al fresco bar, Harbour led the way and will soon be joined restaurant and event spaces. by Vibe Darling Harbour in 2019 and the five- If you’re looking for Sydney’s most star W Sydney in the striking Ribbon building interesting new hotels, then Surry Hills in 2019 or 2020. is where you’ll want to hang your hat. Clockwise from A 12-storey hotel will rise above Wynyard Paramount House Hotel and Little Albion opposite page: Station in late 2019. The luxurious-yet- are some of Sydney’s coolest places to stay, SKYE Suites Sydney; affordable Little National Hotel will have making guests feel like they really live in The Ribbon Project 230 rooms, a gym, library, and rooftop bar the city. Plans are underway to convert Tyne (render), credit: Marriott and restaurant. House in Surry Hills into a luxury 285-room International; hotel to open in 2020. Four Points by Sheraton New hotels for Western Sydney are in the pipeline for 2020, with Four Points by In the heart of the Sydney CBD, the new SKYE Sheraton and QT Parramatta Suites are sleek, warm and inviting. The 73 both opening. suites are larger than a typical hotel room and provide guests a sophisticated environment In Pyrmont, the glitzy new six-star Ritz- with Delonghi appliances, Vittoria coffee Carlton is set to open above The Star machines, a mattress menu, mini bar, laundry sometime in the early 2020s. The $500 million facilities and Kevin Murphy toiletries. project will mark the return of the brand to Sydney after more than a decade and the Across the bridge, TFE Hotels has opened property will be a mix of hotel rooms and the sleek new Vibe Hotel North Sydney in the elite private residences sharing a Sky Lobby, heart of the bustling North Sydney business restaurant, pools, gyms and wellness centre. precinct. It features a rooftop pool with views over the city and a dedicated ‘eat street’ of The huge Central Park development in dining options. Chippendale now has its own hotel, the new

20 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 WHAT’S NEW • 21 Faraway Domes in the New England town of Stay on a working horse farm in refurbished Warialda is the latest pop-up retreat offering shipping containers at Belisi Luxury Farm overnight stays in a clear sphere. The hi-tech Stay in Wagga Wagga. The two-bedroom domes in peaceful bushland have bespoke tiny homes have plush beds, stone bath and rustic furniture including a four-poster king SMEG appliances, and sit high on the hill bed and outdoor bath. overlooking the paddocks. The Cove is a brand new collection of self- Go off the grid in the Kangaroo Valley in CABN, contained cottages in Jervis Bay dotted a tiny eco-friendly retreat hidden in rugged amongst beachfront bushland surrounded bushland. The custom-built cabin sleeps up by Booderee National Park. For lovebirds, to five, has a bathroom and full kitchen, and the entire property can be booked out plenty of glass to let the outside in. for an exclusive destination wedding, Opposite page: Faraway Domes, Warialda accommodating 100 guests. Below: CABN Kangaroo Valley, credit: Murray Fredricks

REGIONAL NSW On the Mid North Coast, Bannisters Port Just 10 minutes outside of Broken Hill, the Stephens has opened its doors. The State’s historic Mt Gipps Hotel, which began serving second Bannisters property has 80 coastal- thirsty travellers in 1890, has been reborn luxe rooms, four suites and a breathtaking as the Broken Hill Outback Resort. Due for penthouse, as well as an infinity pool completion in 2019, the complex will include overlooking the bay and a new seafood 24 king spa cabins, 40 caravan and camping restaurant from celebrity chef Rick Stein. sites, swimming pool, playground, bistro, fine dining restaurant and bush walking trails. Spicers Retreats has opened a second Hunter Valley property, Spicers Guesthouse, Near the small town of Braidwood, Mona in November. The group spent $20 million Farm is a 124-acre property with sprawling on a two-year renovation of the former gardens, wisteria-lined arbours and historic Peppers Guest House in Pokolbin, creating buildings restored lovingly into luxurious a 49-room retreat with extensive wedding havens. There’s also a restored wool shed and event facilities. and pretty chapel for events and weddings. Albury is set to get its first five-star boutique Bangalay Villas are 16 new luxury villas on hotel, with the luxurious CIRCA 1928 the South Coast near Seven Mile Beach. currently under construction. Set inside a With a pared-back, beachy style, the one- or restored Art Deco bank built in 1928, the two-bedroom villas have sweeping views hotel will also have a day spa, tea lounge and over the Shoalhaven Heads golf course to the shopping. Room rates will be around $500- mountain range. 700 per night.

22 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 WHAT’S NEW • 23 Mayfield Garden in Oberon, the southern expanded deck and private hot tub. The hemisphere’s largest privately-owned cool Capella Spa has been reimagined as a loft climate garden, has launched a seasonal to give views out over the ocean. glamping experience. Glamping in The InterContinental Hotels Group has Garden by Simple Pleasures Camping announced that it will refresh and rebrand Co. gives exclusive night-time access its heritage property in the Hunter Valley to the gardens, with guests sleeping in as voco™ Kirkton Park Hunter Valley. The stylish belle tents with Hugo Sleep queen fourth voco™ branded property in Australia, mattresses and luxury linen. it will offer luxurious design, paddock-to- Visitors can now stay in three beautifully plate dining and exceptional service. restored lighthouse keepers’ cottages at NRMA Parks and Resorts has recently Seal Rocks on the NSW Mid North Coast. acquired two new properties in NSW: The Sugarloaf Lighthouse complex dates NRMA Stockton Beach Holiday Park in the back to 1875 and the two- and three- Newcastle region and NRMA Yarrawonga bedroom cottages have sweeping views over Holiday Park in the Murray River the Pacific Ocean. region. The new parks are part of the NRMA’s Capella Lodge on Lord Howe Island, a focus on expanding regional tourism and member of Luxury Lodges of Australia, offering enjoyable, affordable holidays. completed a $4 million refurbishment in late 2018. All nine suites have been updated, with the premium Makambo Loft Above: Kirkton Park, Hunter Valley suite now scoring a private plunge pool Opposite above: Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island and the Catalina Suite upgraded with a loft, Opposite below: Glamping in the Garden, Oberon

24 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 WHAT’S NEW • 25 FOOD & WINE

SYDNEY The final touches will be put on the new Darling Square neighbourhood, on the site of the old Entertainment Centre. The Steam Mill Lane dining precinct was the first to be completed and in 2019 it will be joined by Little Hay Street, a strip of al fresco cafes and shops that links Darling Harbour and Chinatown. The six-storey timber-wrapped Darling Exchange will also open in 2019 with a library, meeting and events space aimed at tech and start ups, market food hall and a second outpost of famed Chinese restaurant Golden Century on the roof. The $32 million renovation of the historic Campbell’s Stores buildings along The Rocks waterfront will be completed by early 2019. It will be home to a number of restaurants from high-profile operators, including the team behind the new Pacific Club Bondi Beach, chef Nobuyuki Ura from Sushi-e and the Lotus Group. Surry Hills is now home to Sydney’s first ever craft rum distillery, Brix. It’s currently producing three core rums (white, gold and spiced) with plans to create more small- batch varieties. The modern industrial space also has more than 150 rums from around the world on the shelf. In Sydney, the best place to drink is on a SYDNEY’S HOTTEST OPENINGS rooftop with new bars opening across the city. Try Old Mate’s Place in the CBD, Slims Don’t Tell Aunty, Surry Hills Rooftop in East Sydney, El Camino Cantina The drinks and dining experiences on offer at Ron’s Upstairs, Redfern in Manly, Imperial UP in Erskineville, Nick Sydney Opera House have been reimagined, Bistecca, CBD & Nora’s in Parramatta, The Quarryman’s with the appointment of Trippas White Group Poly, Surry Hills Hotel in Pyrmont or Ess at The Governor in to manage the theatre bars, The Lounge and Bert’s, Newport Macquarie Park. new function centre. Celebrity chef Karen Paperbark, Waterloo Experience a piece of living history at Mister Martini has been named Ambassador Chef Bella Brutta, Newtown Percy, a new wine and pinchos (sort of like for the house venues and menus will draw on tapas) bar inside a 19th century warehouse at her French-Tunisian and Italian heritage, and Lankan Filling Station, Darlinghurst the Ovolo 1888 hotel in Pyrmont. It’s named focus on Australian produce. A1 Canteen, Chippendale after Percy Ewart, a former wool classer whose The Botanica, Vaucluse name was etched on the sandstone wall. Above and opposite below: Mister Percy, Pyrmont

26 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 WHAT’S NEW • 27 REGIONAL NSW The team behind the Three Blue Ducks Lilian Teahouse at Lilianfels Resort and paddock-to-plate restaurant group have Spa in Katoomba. Colourful birdcages are taken things in a new direction, opening a bar suspended from the ceiling and bowls of Asian and late night eatery in Byron Bay. Locura comfort food are crafted from local produce. (which means ‘madness’ in Spanish) has a A new state-of-the-art cellar door has Mexican and South American vibe with small opened at Shaw Wines in Murrumbateman. plates and killer cocktails. Overlooking the rolling vineyards, the striking Brokenwood Wines in the Hunter Valley modern space has a private tasting room and launched a huge new cellar door complex in a lounge area where wine lovers can enjoy a December 2018 complete with personal wine tasting with a cheese plate. tasting pods (rather than a large central bar), Taste the flavour of native botanicals from entertainment terrace for live music and the Blue Mountains with 1832 Wolgan Gin, a a restaurant. new artisan spirit produced exclusively for The recently renovated Tathra Hotel on Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley resort, the Sapphire Coast is now home to the a member of Luxury Lodges of Australia. Humpback Brewery to create their own The gin was created with Mikey Enright brews that change with the seasons from of Sydney gin bar The Barber Shop and refreshing lagers and flavourful India pale contains handpicked native plants, seeds and ales to dark ales and more. flowers, and pristine water from Carne Creek which flows through the For authentic Asian street food in the Blue surrounding the resort. Mountains, visit the newly opened Miss EXPERIENCES

The world-class is set to open Broken Bay Pearls on the Central Coast is the in Western Sydney. There will be more than only Akoya pearl farm in New South Wales and 30 exhibits of native and exotic animals, and is now offering fascinating Pearl Farm Tours clever design elements will bring visitors where visitors immerse themselves in the closer to animals than ever before as they pearl cultivating business, head out to see the walk along elevated boardwalks and through longlines on water and learn pearl culturing, a series of immersive landscapes. harvesting and grading. A Shellar Door will also be opening for land-based experiences Hikers should plan a trip to the South Coast and the sale of pearls from the farm. in 2019 with the completion of a $3.9 million upgrade to the Great Southern Nature Walk Forage for and pick your own sweet in the . Work is also strawberries at Bidgee Strawberries and continuing on the Royal Coast Track, which is Cream, a new family-owned and operated set to be finished in 2020. agri-tourism venture in Wagga Wagga. The Cashen family’s 14.1 hectare property is Clockwise from top: An epic 80km walking track will soon link two home to 84,000 individual strawberry plants Tathra Hotel, of Sydney’s most iconic beaches. The Bondi Miss Lilian Teahouse, and visitors can take part in tours and then to Manly walk will wind around the harbour Shaw Wines gather their own. foreshore, across the and through lush national park.

This page: Broken Bay Pearls, credit: Central Coast Drones

28 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 WHAT’S NEW • 29 Lets Go Surfing has achieved Ecotourism Toast the sunset on the tranquil waters Certification through Ecotourism Australia around Port Stephens with the newly for its ongoing commitment to preserving the launched Sundowner Cruise from environment. LGS currently operates surf Moonshadow – TQC Cruises. Departing from and stand up paddleboard schools at iconic Nelson Bay, the two-hour cruise includes a beaches across New South Wales, including fully-licensed bar and drinks can be enjoyed Bondi and Byron Bay. on the large outdoor deck. Two exciting new exhibits opened at Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo in 2018 – Lion Pride Lands and Wild Herds. Lion Pride Lands replicates an African Masaai village with eight majestic lions while Wild Herds is based on a Mongolian village and is home to takhi (or Prezwalski’s horse) and fallow deer. Experience the Great Barrier Reef in the heart of the city with the new interactive Day and Night on the Reef experience at . It’s the world’s largest Great Barrier Reef display and features illuminated jellyfish, a bioluminescent beach, coral spawning and sea turtles laying eggs. The in Sydney is set to undergo a $50 million refurbishment to expand its touring exhibition halls in preparation for hosting major international exhibitions. The first will be an exclusive six- month run of Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh in 2021. The refurb will also include new education facilities, museum shop, café and other amenities. Culture Scouts will be expanding its portfolio of curated walking tours to include Bondi and Paddington in 2019. The tours show visitors these suburbs from a local’s perspective with food and coffee tasting, boutique shopping and hidden historic details. Jenolan Caves, which have been welcoming tourists since the late 1800s, is currently undergoing an $8.5 million upgrade. Works will include a new visitor centre, walking trails and a viewing platform beside Blue Lake. A new $1.9 million café opened in mid- 2018 and management is investigating plans to renovate the historic Caves House hotel.

Above: Australian Museum, Sydney Below: Jenolan Caves Opposite above: Lets Go Surfing, Byron Bay Opposite below: Taronga Western Plains Zoo Dubbo

30 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 WHAT’S NEW • 31 FAMOUS FLOWERS

Spring is a magical time in New South Wales, heralding warm clear days and beautiful blooms from September to November. Discover lilac jacarandas, golden canola fields, blush cherry blossoms and brilliantly hued tulips from country to coast.

32 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 Mayfield Garden, Oberon FAMOUS FLOWERS • 33 PURPLE HAZE

LAVENDER BAY Harbour Bridge, Sydney Opera House, Sydney Harbour and the historic cobblestone streets Pack a picnic and head to Kirribilli, Lavender of the oldest neighbourhood in Sydney. Bay, Greenwich, Waverton, Hunters Hill, Woolwich, Longueville or Wollstonecraft for a long lunch under the trees. In the heart GRAFTON— of Lavender Bay is heritage-listed Wendy THE JACARANDA CAPITAL Whiteley’s Garden, which has spectacular The historic town of Grafton alongside the views to the Sydney Harbour Bridge and the Clarence River on NSW’s North Coast is Harbour foreshore dotted with jacarandas. known as the Jacaranda Capital. Grafton is home to more than 2,000 Jacaranda trees UNDER THE ARCHES and the annual Grafton Jacaranda Festival in Spring is the longest running flower festival On the North Shore there’s a little piece of in Australia. Festival highlights include magic by the name of McDougall Street. coronation of a Jacaranda Queen, a street Come Spring, tourists and locals alike flock parade with themed floats, markets, live to the fairytale avenue in Kirribilli, where performances and fireworks. the splendid arch of jacaranda trees creates a lavender-hued dome, perfect for Spring selfies. Just remember to be road safety THE INTERSECTION, PADDINGTON aware at all times and mindful of residents. For luxury shopping with your lavender hues, head to Oxford Street, Glenmore Road and SYDNEY HARBOUR Five Ways in Paddington. Don’t miss The Intersection, Paddington, the tree-lined Take a do-it-yourself jacaranda walking tour point where Glenmore Road meets Oxford through the city starting at the Royal Botanic Street. The chic enclave is home to high-end Garden Sydney, passing through Circular Australian designer boutiques and is opposite Quay and The Rocks. View the stunning trees the jacarandas on Victoria Barracks Lawn. set against the backdrop of the iconic Sydney

34 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 FAMOUS FLOWERS • 35 MAYFIELD GARDEN, OBERON Aerial shots of the stunning Mayfield Garden are Instagram gold, with the 160-acre cool climate garden boasting a hedge maze, obelisk pond and water garden with floating lilies. You can easily spend a day in the magnificent grounds discovering Spring-flowering bulbs, blossom fields and avenues of trees. During the Spring festival glamp in a luxurious belle tent and dine at the on-site paddock-to-plate café serving tasty meals melding ingredients handpicked from Mayfield.

TULIP TIME, BOWRAL SPRING BLOOMS ACROSS THE STATE The famed Tulip Time Festival in the Southern Highlands has come a long way CHERRY BLOSSOM FESTIVAL, CANOLA TRAIL, THE RIVERINA since 1961, when it began with just 500 tulips. Corbett Gardens, in the town of Bowral, is AUBURN The Canola Trail is a triangle-shaped tourist the centrepiece of the Festival, named after Sydney is full of secret gardens and the loop between Temora, Coolamon and , passionate gardener and Bowral resident Auburn Botanic Gardens in Western Sydney just north of Wagga Wagga in The Riverina Ada Corbett who convinced council to is not to be missed during Spring. That’s region. The trail takes in the spectacular sight create a garden on an empty block in town, when the gardens are in full bloom — an of golden fields of flowering canola crop, then formed the Bowral Public Gardens Insta-queen’s dream. From 17-26 August, which contrast against the bright blue sky and Committee in 1912. Fast forward to 2018 and you can wander underneath the canopy of red soil. As visitors travel the trail between Corbett Gardens was mass-planted with over pink during the Cherry Blossom Festival and charming towns, cellar doors and farm-to- 75,000 tulip bulbs as well as 15,000 flowering there are eye-catching decorative bridges table eateries, they gain fascinating insight annuals for Tulip Time. Locals and visitors and a traditional tea house too. into the region’s agricultural production— from all over the world descend on Bowral to canola yields the largest oilseed crop in marvel at the bright pockets of glossy tulips. Australia—and discover the rich history and colourful characters of The Riverina too. Clockwise from top: Cherry Blossom Festival, Mayfield Garden, Tulip Time

36 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 FAMOUS FLOWERS • 37 ABORIGINAL CULTURE

From tasting bush tucker to watching contemporary indigenous dance, New South Wales is a vibrant hub of Aboriginal tourism in Australia. In fact, over the last five years Destination NSW has grown export-ready Aboriginal tourism experiences in NSW by 340 per cent, from five products in 2013 to 22 in 2018.

38 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness ABORIGINAL CULTURE • 39 KEY EXPERIENCES ACROSS NSW

FIRST LESSON CULTURAL TOURS BUNDYI CULTURAL TOURS Gain a better understanding of local Wiradjuri Proud Wiradjuri man Mark Saddler shares Culture with First Lesson Cultural Tours in the his extensive knowledge of the oldest culture Central West of NSW. Follow in the footsteps of in the world in The Riverina near Wagga Aboriginal ancestors and discover significant Wagga with Bundyi Cultural Tours. Guests sites such as the scarred canoe tree, axe connect with the ancient land and learn about grinding site and bush medicine plants. plants, animals, tool making, language and bush tucker in tours such as the Aboriginal Walkabout Tour or Taste of Wiradjuri Tour. BOURKE INDIGENOUS TOURS At Bourke in the northwest of NSW, Bourke Indigenous Tours take you along the Darling NGARAN NGARAN CULTURE River for a one and a half hour walk and talk, AWARENESS discovering the Bourke Wharf, the local Ngaran Ngaran Culture Awareness is Aboriginal Art Gallery, a local indigenous an Aboriginal-owned and operated tour radio station and finishing at Back O’ Bourke company on the NSW South Coast. Lead Exhibition Centre. guide Dwayne ‘Naja’ Bannon-Harrison—with over 17 years’ experience—takes you on the 40-hour Gulaga Creation Tour, to experience Below: Bourke Indigenous Tours, Bourke Opposite page: Sand Dune Adventures, sacred walking, local Dreaming stories and Port Stephens traditional ceremonies.

SAND DUNE ADVENTURES UNKYA CULTURAL ECO TOURS In Port Stephens, gain exclusive access to These tours on the NSW North Coast Aboriginal land with Sand Dune Adventures. showcase the culture and heritage of the The quad bike experience takes in the Gaagal Wanggaan National Park. The Gaagal magnificent Worimi Sand Dunes on Stockton Wanggaan Eco Tour is a two and a half Beach, riding bush to beach with expert hour walk through pristine bush, while Aboriginal guides who provide insight into the Gurruuja Juun (Whale Tail) Tour gains Aboriginal culture and heritage. spectacular beach views from Scotts Head.

WUPA@WANARUAH ART TRAIL WAJAANA YAAM ADVENTURE TOURS Hop on the Indigenous art trail in the Hunter Paddle with purpose in with Valley with the Wupa@Wanaruah Art Trail, Wajaana Yaam. The stand up paddle board which exhibits Aboriginal artworks across tours in traditional Gumbaynggirr country various venues for 10 weeks in the beautiful give a portion of profits to after-school wine region. Wupa means ‘to make’ or learning programs. The expert Aboriginal ‘to paint’ and the trail showcases both guides take you to marine parks in Coffs established and emerging Aboriginal artists. Creek, Red Rock and Corindi Old Camp for an authentic experience.

40 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 ABORIGINAL CULTURE • 41 KEY EXPERIENCES IN SYDNEY

ABORIGINAL HERITAGE TOURS BLAK MARKETS Held in Sydney’s spectacular Royal Botanic The renowned Blak Markets of Sydney are Garden and led by an Aboriginal guide, the a vibrant marketplace with an Aboriginal tour introduces visitors to some of the bush focus held eight times throughout the year in foods that were part of the diet for the Gadigal various community hubs around Sydney with people, the original inhabitants of the area. market stalls, cultural presentations, art workshops, indigenous entertainment and heritage tours. DREAMTIME SOUTHERN X Local character and Aboriginal Elder Margret Campbell developed the Dreamtime BANGARRA DANCE THEATRE Southern X, The Rocks Dreaming Aboriginal Bangarra—the Wiradjuri word meaning ‘to Heritage Tour to give guests a fascinating make fire’—is Australia’s award-winning and history of the Gadigal people’s land and most innovative Aboriginal dance company water use within Sydney Harbour. On the with an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander 90-minute journey Margret artfully weaves cast of writers, directors and performers. the Aboriginal people’s spiritual saltwater Dance is a traditional medium for expression heritage into the modern context of the for many Aboriginal people and the powerful Harbourside city that exists today. performances dig deep into Aboriginal culture and explore contemporary social themes. ART IN THE CITY Opposite above: Blak Markets, Sydney Sydney offers many opportunities to see Opposite below: Dreamtime Southern X, Sydney contemporary and traditional Aboriginal art and artefacts. The Museum of Contemporary Art has a significant collection of Indigenous art, including pieces from Arnhem Land from the 1950s. At the Art Gallery of NSW, Yiribana For more information, download Gallery is one of Australia’s largest spaces The NSW Aboriginal Tourism Toolkit dedicated to indigenous art. With words, at: destinationnsw.com.au images and artefacts, the Australian Museum explores the diversity of Aboriginal Australia, tracing the impact of European society.

42 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 ABORIGINAL CULTURE • 43 HOT DESTINATION: MUDGEE

A charming and historic country town surrounded by boutique wineries, rolling farmland and untouched wilderness, Mudgee should be on every traveller’s radar in 2019.

44 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 Burnbrae Wines, Mudgee HOT DESTINATION: MUDGEE • 45 EAT The Mudgee region is famous for its fresh produce, with cherries, figs, olives, stone fruit, lemons, free-range pork, honey and more grown year round. Follow the Farm Gate Trail to visit the producers or pick up some goodies at the farmers market, held on the third Saturday of the month. Set on the edge of a dam in the grounds of the Robert Stein winery, Pipeclay Pumphouse specialises in paddock-to-plate dining that uses simple techniques to highlight the ingredients. The majority of produce is sourced locally and much of it is from the on- Rylstone, about 45 minutes outside of Mudgee. site farm, including Angus beef, Dorper lamb Owner Na Lan is an artist from Xian in China and free-range Berkshire pork. who began making food for friends before Hidden away down an alley in the centre opening a restaurant. There are more than 30 of Mudgee, Alby & Esthers is a café during dumplings, steamed buns and desserts to try, the week and a chic wine bar on the as well as a gallery and shop. It’s so popular, weekends. The menu focuses on local you’ll need to book in advance on weekends. ingredients and the wines are all drawn from surrounding vineyards. Above: Pipeclay Pumphouse, Mudgee You’ll find some of the best yum cha in Below: 29 Nine 99, Rylstone Australia at the tiny 29 Nine 99 restaurant in Opposite: Lowe Wines, Mudgee

DRINK The Mudgee region is the third-largest trees and owner and winemaker David Lowe producer of wine grapes in NSW and there are will often come out to join you for a drink. The more than 35 cellar doors around Mudgee. vineyard and winery are fully organic, and Red wine varietals dominate, with shiraz, specialise in small-batch winemaking. cabernet sauvignon and merlot the most Other top wineries include First Ridge (with popular. Chardonnay is the most popular a cellar door made entirely of repurposed white wine, with semillon, sauvignon blanc, shipping containers), Moothi Estate, verdelho and traminer also produced. Huntington Estate, Bunamagoo Estate Wines Logan Wines has a striking, modern and the tiny Short Sheep Micro-Winery, which glass tasting room that looks out over the produces just 1,500 cases a year. vineyards. Settle in by the window with a glass If you prefer beer, sample some of the brews of Ridge of Tears shiraz and a tasting plate of on offer at the Mudgee Brewing Company local cheeses. At Lowe Wines, tastings take inside a 100-year-old red brick wool store in place on the lawn under the shade of wisteria the centre of town.

46 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 HOT DESTINATION:XXXXXXXXXXXXX MUDGEE • 47 STAY Built within the 1862 Mechanics Institute, Deep in Mudgee wine country, Sierra the Perry Street Hotel has 13 self-contained Escape is a breathtaking property with three suites with kitchenettes and king sized beds. five-star tents to escape from the world for The décor is inspired by the architecture of a while. The glamping huts are luxurious Berlin and guests can wrap up in the custom- and spacious with wooden floors, king or designed kimono-style bathrobes. queen beds and deep freestanding outdoor bathtubs overlooking the property. A couple of blocks away is The Parkview Hotel, set inside another historic building dating back to around 1870. The seven suites have period features like restored fireplaces This page: Sierra Escape, Mudgee and intricate chandeliers, and a large open Opposite above: Whatever Mudgee Lifestyle + Home verandah is available for all guests to use. Opposite below: Mudgee Wine + Food Festival

PLAY wall drips clear springwater into shady pools below. The area is always lush and cool, even The Mudgee region is also a place for in the middle of summer, with native apple outdoor adventures. The ancient Wollemi gums, tree violets, orchids and moss. National Park is just over an hour southwest of the town and is home to Dunns Swamp (or Ganguddy), a tranquil waterway surrounded SHOP by green bushland and sandstone rock The pretty streets of Mudgee are dotted formations. It’s a popular spot for camping, with one-off boutiques selling handpicked fishing, canoeing and swimming, and is homewares, clothing, jewellery, accessories surrounded by a network of walking trails. and toys. The tourism board has recently Keep an eye out for long-necked turtles and launched the Shop Like A Local Trail that elusive platypus. provides visitors with an easy-to-use map To the north, in the Goulburn River National that takes them around the best stores. Close Park, is The Drip walking track. The walk to a dozen shops make the list, including takes over one hour return and brings visitors Whatever Mudgee, Edited & Co, Cherry Red to The Drip Gorge where a 35 metre sandstone and Cedar Cicada.

DON'T MISS

Mudgee Wine + Food Festival, 13-29 September 2019 A huge celebration of the fresh produce, dining and wine of the Mudgee region. Events include long lunches, tastings, masterclasses, tours, music and the Flavours of Mudgee street fair on the closing weekend.

48 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 HOT DESTINATION: MUDGEE • 49 ROAD TRIPS

Blaze a trail from country to coast with Destination NSW’s new online road trip planning tool and explore Regional NSW at your own pace.

50 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 Canola fields, Sebastopol XXXXXXXXXXXXXROAD TRIPS • 51 ROAD TRIP PLANNER NATURAL WONDERS

Destination NSW brings the adventure of a The highly visual itineraries are curated THE GREATER BLUE MOUNTAINS DRIVE road trip to life in the digital world with an into four appealing themes of Heritage and Where: Sydney > Blue Mountains > Greater Blue Mountains exciting new online content tool. Culture, Food and Wine, Beaches and Surf, and Natural Wonders, bringing all these You’ve got: 2 days The new DNSW road trip and itinerary experiences to life digitally, and giving visitors planner is powered by digital campaign tool Best for: Romantic getaway the confidence and tools to explore regional Alpaca Travel, which lets visitors explore New South Wales even further. NSW’s great touring routes with step-by- step directions, as well as options to book Located on the NSW Road Trip pages on DAY 1 DAY 2 accommodation, track their GPS details and visitnsw.com, here is a sample of four regional Sydney > Blue Mountains Blue Mountains > Greater Blue Mountains share their itinerary with family and friends. road trips through NSW, from country to coast. The drive from Sydney to Katoomba, in the From the Blue Mountains, there are 18 trips heart of the Blue Mountains, takes about to choose from that branch off the main 90 minutes via the . The Great route, covering national parks, vineyards Western Highway climbs beyond Penrith and historic towns from the Upper Hunter, into the mountains past towns including Mudgee, Goulburn, the Southern Highlands Springwood, Faulconbridge, Wentworth Falls and the Hawkesbury. and Leura. Katoomba has elegant dining options and plenty of places to stay – use it as a base to explore Leura, Blackheath, Mount Victoria and the Megalong Valley.

BEACHES & SURF

GRAND PACIFIC DRIVE Where: Royal National Park > Kiama > Shoalhaven Area You’ve got: 2 days Best for: Coastal cruising

DAY 1 DAY 2 Royal National Park > Kiama Kiama > Shoalhaven The Grand Pacific Drive heads south from Just south of Kiama is Gerroa, a sweet the Royal National Park, the second oldest seaside escape at the northern end of Seven National Park in the world, only 36km from Mile Beach. Further afield, in the Shoalhaven Sydney. From here the 140km trip winds past region, Jervis Bay is 79km from Kiama and surf beaches, through rainforest and seaside boasts white sand beaches, sapphire seas towns. Take the spectacular Sea Cliff Bridge, and resident dolphins. which extends over the ocean as it hugs the coast on your way to Austinmer.

52 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 ROAD TRIPS • 53 HERITAGE & CULTURE

THE LONG PADDOCK Where: > > Hay > Ivanhoe > Wilcannia You’ve got: 4 days Best for: History buffs

DAY 1 DAY 3 Moama > Deniliquin Hay > Ivanhoe The Long Paddock route follows the historic is 38km north of Hay. Stop on the Cobb stock route, from the mighty Murray to see the remains of the River to iconic Outback towns. Starting in famous One Tree Hotel. Continue north past Australia’s paddle-steamer capital, the twin sprawling paddocks and station homesteads towns of Echuca-Moama are rich in riverboat to Booligal and stop for a fabulous pub lunch heritage, food and wine, and towering at Duke of Edinburgh Hotel. 133km north of river red gums. The journey from Moama Booligal is Ivanhoe – don’t miss The Long to Deniliquin features intriguing heritage Paddock mural ‘The Pioneers’, a fantastic and natural attractions. Begin by exploring work by Wayne Strickland that tells the story history at Port of Echuca Discovery Centre or of the Ivanhoe area, then finish off the day taking a ride on a paddle-steamer. with dinner at the Ivanhoe Hotel.

DAY 2 DAY 4 Deniliquin > Hay Ivanhoe > Wilcannia Heading north on Cobb Highway, cross the Wilcannia was once a thriving port for at Wanganella 42km north of cargoes of wool shipped along the Darling Deniliquin. Flowing for about 320km before River by steamers and is situated 163km entering the at Moulemein, this from Ivanhoe. The road is unsealed, so before is the longest creek in the world and paradise setting out check road conditions with the for Murray cod. local Visitor Information Centre, local council, police or motoring authority. Rain may cause The historic Royal Mail Hotel in closure of these roads. From Wilcannia, you is a great place to stop for refreshments – it can connect with the Run or the was an original staging post on the Cobb & Co Great Central to Outback NSW Drive. stagecoach route. Keep going to historic Hay, 51km north of Booroorban, nestled on the banks of the beautiful . Clockwise from opposite above: Country landscape between Ivanhoe and Menindee; Kayaking along the Murray River; Carriage ride through Canowindra

54 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 ROAD TRIPS • 55 FOOD & WINE

FOOD LOVERS' LOOP Where: Sydney > Hawkesbury > Mudgee > Hunter Valley You’ve got: 4 days Best for: Foodies

DAY 1 DAY 3 Sydney > Hawkesbury Mudgee > Rylstone > Denman Named after the mighty Hawkesbury River, One of the oldest villages in the Great this region has been the city’s food bowl since Dividing Range, Rylstone is a pretty heritage the early days of the colony. As a result, there town on the Cudgegong River. In Spring, are plenty of established food producers, as they showcase their abundant local produce well as boutique wineries, distilleries and at Street Feast – an annual festival of food breweries. You will also find stunning natural and wine. Denman is nestled amongst olive scenery, art galleries, innovative farm-to- groves and horse studs in the Upper Hunter, table restaurants and outdoor river activities and is where you start the Hunter Valley such as kayaking and fishing. Tasting Trail.

DAY 2 DAY 4 Hawkesbury > Mudgee Denman > Pokolbin, The Hunter Valley Find the perfect pairing of produce and wine Feast and wander in wine tasting hotspot as you meander along the delicious food Polkolbin, home to some of the Hunter’s most trail of the Mudgee region. With local wine well-known wine labels. The perfect base to and paddock-to-plate dining a speciality, explore the surrounding vineyards, sample Mudgee is a food lover's paradise. Home to hearty reds and interesting whites at various many artisan producers, it boasts fabulous cellar doors and dine on fresh, local produce. food year round and with so many boutique Pokolbin has magnificent natural beauty wineries to explore, it’s fast becoming a and is one of the most famous of the Hunter premier wine region. Valley’s grape growing areas.

Opposite above: Keith Tulloch Winery in Pokolbin, Hunter Valley Opposite below: High Valley Mudgee Cheese Co

56 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 ROAD TRIPS • 57 SECRET SYDNEY

Think you know Sydney? Think again. Go beneath the surface of the Harbour City to discover secret swimming spots, underground bars, quirky galleries and local foodie favourites.

58 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 Andrew Boy Charlton Pool SECRET SYDNEY • 59 DRINK Sydney loves a bar with a view and The Butler Walk through a cobblestone courtyard, in Potts Point has a picture-perfect outlook down the stairs and back 170 years to The over the city framed by lush green foliage. Doss House, the newest small bar in The It’s famous for its cocktails (especially the Rocks. There are 150 whiskies on offer as espresso martini) and has an Iberian-inspired well as tasting platters of native delicacies, menu of share plates to choose from. like emu prosciutto and kangaroo salami. Ceilings are low and rooms are small, giving If you like drinks served in a coconut, the bar a cosy, convivial feeling and making garnished with bananas carved into dolphins it the kind of place you could happily settle or set on fire at the bar, then Jacoby’s is the into for the night. place for you. This Twin Peaks-themed tiki bar in Enmore is unashamedly fun, serving tropical classics and top-notch natural wines Opposite page: Butter, Surry Hills Below:Jacoby's, Enmore in a room designed to feel like 1950s Hawaii. Try The Romero: as the menu says, it’s strong enough to raise the dead.

SWIM EAT The floating pontoons in the Murray Rose Sneakers, fried chicken and champagne? At Pool (formerly Redleaf Pool) are two of Butter in Surry Hills you can get all three. This Sydney’s most prized Summer perches. This hybrid store/restaurant serves up crunchy, calm harbour pool is a favourite with locals, juicy fried chicken (either in a shoebox or as hidden away beside Double Bay and with a a sandwich) with a side of laces (shoestring wooden boardwalk running around the edge fries), pickles and donuts for dessert. Pair it for overwater strolling. with champagne or an alcoholic slushie. Running along the edge of The Domain, A mixed plate at Enmore’s much-loved Cairo the Andrew (Boy) Charlton Pool looks out Takeaway will be made up of crumbly green over the wharves of Wooloomooloo and the falafel, brightly coloured pickles, smoky naval ships at anchor off Garden Island. The roasted lamb, bronzed chunks of cauliflower saltwater Olympic pool is popular with both and more flavourful Arabic delights. Get a serious lap swimmers and those who prefer table in the small courtyard out the back or to laze about on stylish wooden deckchairs. perch on a bar stool in front of the counter to watch the chefs in action. Bondi and Coogee beaches are practically household names, but just around the corner Grab a bowl of ramen or a crunchy banh mi you’ll find the secluded oasis of Gordons Bay. at Rising Sun Workshop in Newtown and Climb across the rocky headland to find the you’ll eat with a soundtrack of hammers and perfect place to spread your towel, before welding torches. It’s Sydney’s only communal cooling off with a dip in the crystal clear motorbike workshop and café, and if you sit water. Divers and snorkellers can follow on the upper mezzanine you can watch the the Gordons Bay Underwater Nature Trail rev heads at work. Profits from the kitchen go marked by concrete-filled drums and a chain. back into the enterprise, meaning you can eat a tasty meal and help someone afford to work on their passion at the same time.

60 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 SECRET SYDNEY • 61 DO The most aesthetically pleasing workout space in Sydney is perched on a rooftop in Surry Hills. Paramount Recreation Club promises physical, mental and social wellbeing in a Palm Springs-inspired space with shades of sky blue and white. Try the signature workout, get a treatment in the spa and refuel with a fresh juice from the Kiosk. Grab a glass and a paintbrush for a class at Cork & Chroma, a fun and creative painting class in Surry Hills. The studio provides all the equipment you’ll need (like paint, brushes, aprons and canvas) as well as a teacher to guide you through the steps for creating your own masterpiece. Bring along your favourite wine to get the artistic juices flowing.

SEE SHOP Discover one of the world’s most significant transformed and now houses a boutique hotel, One of Sydney’s great literary institutions, biodynamic lamb and organic seedlings to collections of contemporary Chinese Art at health club, restaurants, bar and co-working Berkelouw Books has been open on Oxford fresh flowers, gourmet nuts and boutique the White Rabbit Gallery in Chippendale. The space. Fittingly, there’s also a petite cinema Street in Paddington for 25 years. A three- wines. It’s also the best place to grab a collection is owned by philanthropist Judith in the basement, Golden Age Cinema is storey treasure trove, it stocks thousands of coffee, pastry, dumplings or steaming bowl Neilson, who was inspired to curate modern beautifully recreated with 1940s-era cinema new, secondhand and rare books. There’s of pho for breakfast. Chinese art after a trip to Beijing and the focus chairs and an art deco bar next door. It shows also a café and wine bar if you want to linger Paddington is one of Sydney’s high-end everything from new releases to vintage is on post-2000 artworks. There are two new over that latest page turner. shopping hubs, with Australian designers exhibitions every year and the gallery’s Tea classics, trivia nights and even sing alongs. Every Saturday morning, growers and and one-of-a-kind boutiques lining the House is a destination in itself with a tranquil producers from around Sydney and NSW leafy streets. Wander along William Street, vibe and menu of handmade dumplings and display their wares at the Carriageworks where the shops are mostly tucked inside fine Chinese and Taiwanese tea. Above: White Rabbit Gallery, Chippendale Opposite above: Paramount Recreation Club, Market in Eveleigh. It’s a bright, loud, vibrant renovated terraces, and find something The former headquarters of Paramount Surry Hills and delicious spectacle, with everything from unique to take home. Pictures in Surry Hills has been completely Opposite below: Cork & Chroma, Surry Hills

62 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 SECRET SYDNEY • 63 LUXURY REDEFINED

New South Wales tourism is embracing a new wave of luxury travel with once-in-a-lifetime experiences, bespoke tours and insider knowledge.

64 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 Sofitel Darling Harbour LUXURY REDEFINED • 65 THE RISE OF LUXURY

The luxury travel market in New South to visit NSW including China, USA, New impressive accommodation and seamless to extraordinary theatre experiences and Wales continues to attract discerning Zealand, Korea and UK. On average, these service to meet the needs of this new wave wellness packages. holidaymakers and business travellers travellers spend around 3.6 nights in luxury of luxury nomads. with luxurious accommodation, world- accommodation during their stay in NSW, The modern luxury traveller wants to stay This page: Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley Resort, class restaurants and iconic experiences. ensuring their break is a memorable one. on trend, hoping to discover emerging credit: James Horan, Destination NSW Luxury visitors accounted for 21 per cent of The new era of luxury travel is based on hubs, enjoy meet-the-local experiences, Opposite: Barrenjoey House, Palm Beach international visitors to the State in the year bespoke and unique experiences, as today’s and observe natural wonders before ending September 2018. luxury travellers seek out the ‘experience of everybody else. These types of customised In the same year, they spent $2 billion in a lifetime’. The industry is seeing a growth experiences can be found across NSW, from NSW, with the most likely countries of origin of tailor made experiences, blended with bespoke food trails and luxury car tours

66 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 LUXURY REDEFINED • 67 FLY HIGH built seaplane terminal — then take off from the water to Jonah’s Whale Beach, the only For travellers seeking a bird’s eye view, Relais & Châteaux hotel in Sydney. Sydney HeliTours soar above the city and take in the spectacular views with scenic flights – they also offer transfers to the exclusive LUXURY ADRENALIN Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley Resort. Pushing the trend of luxury heritage brand On the western slopes of the Blue Mountains, collaborations, Prancing Horse pairs the acclaimed resort blends eco-tourism luxury supercar tours with iconic hotels and with unparalleled luxury, accommodating fine dining. The cream of the crop is their no more than 90 guests at a time. Lavish Supercars, Helicopters & Luxury Yachts free-standing suites occupy just two per tour, a memorable weekend escape to the cent of the property’s total land area which Central Coast behind the wheel of a stable offers a range of nature-based activities such of luxury cars including a new Ferrari 488 BESPOKE TOURS as wildlife safaris, walks, horse riding and GTB, Lamborghini Huracán LP 610-4, and mountain biking. McLaren 570/650S. After an elegant lunch A range of private tours provide exclusive CRUISING As the sun rises, Balloon Aloft will take at Bells at Killcare, guests are privately travel options including access to some Sydney Harbour Boat Tours lets guests you floating over the beautiful landscapes chartered in an Augusta 109S-Grande twin- of the State’s most desirable venues and design their own itinerary and explore Sydney of Sydney and the Hunter Valley with a engine helicopter for a scenic tour of Sydney. experiences. Fitting with the trend of Harbour in a high-performance sports champagne breakfast on landing. Sydney By 4pm, it’s time to step aboard a luxury fully customised experiences, guests can cruiser with a local skipper at the helm. In Seaplanes, based at Rose Bay, provides the yacht at Rose Bay for a sunset champagne cherry pick from favourite activities such as the fully customisable experience, guests quintessential luxury lover’s transport. Enjoy cruise, finishing at Dawes Point for an shopping, theatre, boating and more. cherry pick destinations and experiences — a bellini at their Empire Lounge — the edgy indulgent stay at Park Hyatt Sydney. such as cruising by waterfront suburbs and departure space in Australia’s first purpose- ARTS snorkelling — or leave the planning to the knowledgeable team to recommend hidden Starstruck guests can tackle their very own coves, dining hotspots and more. walk-on role in an Opera Australia production at the Sydney Opera House. On a mutually agreed performance date, guests enjoy hair, SHOPPING makeup and a costume fitting, then learn Enjoy a day of luxurious shopping with important stage procedures with the Assistant Splendour Tailored Tours and visit Sydney Director before show time. On stage, the lucky fashion landmarks such as Strand Arcade, guest will be mesmerised by the footlights and high-end and the sound of 50 people singing in perfect urban hotspots like Double Bay, Paddington harmony to a crowd of 1,500 people. and Bondi Beach. Immerse yourself in iconic Aussie designer brands while being FOOD TRAIL personally hosted by your stylist, and stop for a delicious gourmet lunch along the way. Australian Luxury Escapes handcraft local Guests can plan their day in advance with and authentic experiences with a luxurious their stylist over champagne, discussing Australian flavour. Take a private Hunter personal style and what they aim to get out of Valley Wine Trail tour to visit boutique their Sydney shopping experience. wineries, chocolate shops and a high-end dessert bar for VIP tastings. Lunch is at Bistro Molines, a stylish French restaurant Above: Shopping in Paddington that sits above fields of terraced vineyards. Opposite: Jonah's Whale Beach In Sydney, food tours are run through popular dining spots in the Inner City and through hidden laneway bars.

68 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 LUXURY REDEFINED • 69 PERSONALISED STAYS

As travel continues to incorporate meet the growing trend of families wanting personalised experiences to further elevate a personalised getaway. Parents can unwind and evolve the luxury ethos for discerning from the time they check in with special travellers, five-star hotels like The Langham, gifts for the little ones. Once inside the room Sydney are crafting more customised booking guests will delight in themed linen, child- options. The Langham offers a menu of friendly bath amenities and an in-room indulgent experiences so travellers can build movie experience with snacks, as well as their own sophisticated stay, with pillow a Tee Pee sleepover experience for kids menus, champagne breakfasts in bed and staying in a Four Seasons Suite. wellness experiences. And if you want to go For a luxury home away from home, over the top, you can even have The Langham, Luxico offers VIPs, families, and affluent Sydney all to yourself. The Pure Decadence travellers access to Australia’s best homes package costs a cool $1 million and gives you with premium hotel-style, 24/7 concierge private access to the entire hotel (98 rooms support and access to unique experiences. and 13 suites) for two nights including full Luxico is the exclusive manager of private staff, meals, free-flowing bar, day spa and homes, penthouse apartments and town cars. country estates in Sydney and Byron Bay, For families, the exceptional Four Seasons all selected for their space, privacy and Hotel Sydney has designed a bespoke stay to discerning presentation.

Baillie Lodges has long been a pioneer in delivering intimate lodgings and bespoke experiences for the sophisticated global YOUR PERSONAL DRIVER nomad. 2019 heralds a new and exciting chapter for Baillie Lodges – the leading To hotel hop in style, personal luxury lodge owner and operator in Australia transport companies such as – with the news that an affiliate of KSL Capital Instyle Chauffered Limousines Partners, LLC (KSL) has made a substantial and Hughes provide comfortable investment in the company. The first Baillie and luxurious vehicles. Since 1904, property was in New South Wales — Capella discerning Australian corporate Lodge on World Heritage-listed Lord Howe and leisure travellers have relied Island — and founders James and Hayley upon Hughes’ fleet to get them Baillie will lead the new venture with KSL, around, enjoying a flexible 24 hour continuing to deliver luxurious escapism, and service. At Instyle, the reliable pursue acquisitions of select lodges to join fleet of luxury vehicles provides the Baillie portfolio. airport transfers, event transport, wine tours to the Hunter Valley and, coming in 2019, a luxury cruise service on Sydney Harbour. Above: Capella Lodge, Lord Howe Island Opposite: The Langham, Sydney

70 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 LUXURY REDEFINED • 71 TRENDING LUXURY DESTINATIONS

The Tweed Coast is buzzing, especially Newcastle is set to have its first five-star around Cabarita Beach, home to surf-motel- hotel, with hospitality group Crystalbrook turned-Insta-star Halcyon House and brand Collection winning the tender to acquire new outdoor boutique hotel The Hideaway. Newcastle’s iconic ‘Roundhouse’ Council Tucked between hip holiday destination Byron Administrative Centre with intention to and family favourite Gold Coast, Cabarita convert the building into a luxury hotel, to Beach is a top surfing spot bounded with the open in late 2020. The hotel will be named natural beauty of the Nature Reserve to the Kingsley, following the group's philosophy north and west, and the Pacific Ocean to the of giving each of their properties a gender- East. It’s evolving into a key foodie destination neutral name and unique personality. with Paper Daisy at Halcyon House recently Kingsley is representative of Newcastle’s awarded two hats in the 2019 Good Food heritage and the city’s earlier name, Guide, and trending food trails taking in Farm Kingstown, dating back to 1804. & Co and Madura Tea Estate. The Boathouse Group has recently completed Further north, The Byron at Byron Resort & transformations of two luxury properties on Spa is a go-to tropical retreat for discerning the New South Wales coast. On the Central travellers, with a recent transformation of Coast, following a $5 million facelift, the its restaurant, bar and central facilities. former Patonga Beach Hotel has been With on-trend copper island bar, inviting transformed into the bright, nautical The indoor/outdoor feel and artwork of native Boathouse Hotel Patonga with a seasonal Australian botanicals by Julian Meagher menu, 17 different beers, outdoor deck and this is a barefoot luxury at its finest for stylish waterfront accommodation opening 2019. Prancing Horse luxury tours has a in 2019. In Sydney’s exclusive Palm Beach, Supercar Drive Day in February 2019 from heritage-listed Barrenjoey House, which The Byron at Byron Resort & Spa, including joined The Boathouse Group in 2018, has had the latest specification Ferrari 488 GTB and its seven guest rooms and iconic restaurant Lamborghini Huracán LP 610-4, plus lunch refreshed with coastal luxe design and at Paper Daisy. Elements of Byron resort sophisticated menu of seasonal local fare. recently unveiled new villas, an adults-only pool with a swim-up bar and a cocktail caravan on the beach as part of its final stage of development.

Opposite above: Elements of Byron Resort & Spa Opposite below: Kingsley, Newcastle (render), credit: EJE Architecture This page: Halcyon House, Tweed Coast

72 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 LUXURY REDEFINED • 73 INFRASTRUCTURE

Sydney is reshaping for the future with world-class cultural, sporting and tourism infrastructure projects planned for 2019 and beyond.

74 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 The Star's Ritz-Carlton (render) INFRASTRUCTURE • 75 LOOKING TO THE FUTURE 2019 2020 Western Sydney’s future home of Walsh Bay Arts and Cultural Precinct Sydney is a vibrant city on the move with a long and tourism infrastructure makes NSW sport takes shape The refurbishment and preservation of list of exciting infrastructure developments, an exciting place to visit and encourages will be known Walsh Bay Arts and Cultural Precinct is more public space, new hotels, renewed spending in local communities, ultimately as Bankwest Stadium after a seven-year underway and due for completion in 2020. On cultural hubs and improved transport leading to a stronger NSW economy. Here’s a partnership between the NSW Government completion, the revitalised performing arts options under construction. The planning and snapshot of the infrastructure developments and Bankwest for naming-rights of Western hub will be home to an expanded group of execution of high-quality cultural, sporting planned for 2019 and beyond. Sydney’s newest purpose-built stadium. The companies: Sydney Theatre Company, Sydney new stadium, on the site of the old Pirtek Dance Company, Bangarra Dance Theatre, Stadium, is on track to open in 2019 as a Philharmonia Choirs, Gondwana Choirs, The state-of-the-art venue showcasing the finest Song Company, Bell Shakespeare, Australian home grown and international sporting and Chamber Orchestra and Australian Theatre entertainment acts. The modern stadium for Young People. The wharves were originally will revolutionise the visitor experience with constructed in the 1920s, and current works undercover seating for 30,000 people; high- include refurbishment of the arts facilities, a quality food and beverage facilities; five levels series of stairs, external lift and balconies, as of premium corporate spaces; and advanced well as new commercial and retail spaces. broadcast facilities as well as improved public plaza areas. Light Rail progress The State Government is committed Restoration of historic Campbell’s Stores to delivering Sydney’s new Light Rail The $32 million restoration of the historic Infrastructure with projected completion Campbell’s Stores in The Rocks is underway due 2020. Currently, in Zone 1 , with essential conservation works including works are focused on track slab pour, the repairing decayed sandstone walls, roof tile construction of stops, tree planting and replacement and preservation of heritage barrier reduction. In Zone 2, looking south features. Dating back to 1839, Campbell’s from Essex Street, crews are focusing on Stores are the only remaining warehouses finishing works, and in Zone 3 George Street, of their archetype on Sydney Cove foreshore. crews are working on paving, kerb works and Once completed in early 2019, the dynamic new reducing barriers. In Randwick, another state- hospitality space will house 12 restaurants, of-the-art stop has been installed, with the café and bars, with panoramic views of Sydney slimline bronze canopies designed to resist Harbour. The Rocks precinct boosts the NSW corrosion and shield patrons from weather. visitor economy by $400 million and attracts Stay up to date on construction progress at over 14 million visitors a year. sydneylightrail.transport.nsw.gov.au

Opposite page: Western Sydney Stadium

76 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 INFRASTRUCTURE • 77 2021 Sydney Modern Project at the Art Gallery gallery, unique art space repurposed from a of New South Wales former WWII oil tank, dedicated studios for education and a hub for Aboriginal and Torres Sydney Modern Project will be an Strait Islander art. The art museum will be architecturally-designed standalone building the first in Australia to achieve the highest at the Art Gallery of New South Wales linked environmental standard for design with a to the historic gallery with a public art garden. Six Green Star design rating. Scheduled for Highlights of the new contemporary art completion in 2021 for the iconic gallery’s destination will include a major exhibition 150th anniversary.

2022 Renewal of the Sydney Opera House New hotels Since opening its doors in 1973, the Opera By the end of 2022, approximately 4,600 House has become the country’s premier rooms will be added to the Sydney hotel tourist destination, with a national-identity market, which is expected to ease robust value Deloitte Access Economics estimates occupancy levels temporarily after years of at $4.6 billion. escalating demand, research shows. Hotels opening in 2020 include Marriott’s W Sydney The Sydney Opera House needs to be at Darling Harbour’s Ribbon Building, and renewed for the 21st century and the NSW The Star’s Ritz-Carlton. In the past year, new Government has committed $202 million hotels and serviced apartments opened in towards upgrading the Concert Hall, Sydney include the Four Points by Sheraton entry, foyer, and new creative and learning Sydney Central Park, Quest Penrith and centres, and replacing technical systems the SKYE Suites Sydney CBD. In addition, that have reached the end of their working the Meriton Suites Bondi Junction is due to life. A further $26 million will upgrade the complete its 42-room extension. acoustics in Joan Sutherland Theatre as well as safety, functionality and accessibility improvements. All upgrades will respect the heritage and integrity of the Opera House in Above: The Star's Ritz-Carlton (render) accordance with the Utzon Design Principles, Opposite above: Sydney Modern Project, Conservation Management Plan and in view from Woolloomooloo (render) consultation with the Eminent Architects Opposite below: Sydney Modern Project internal Panel and Conservation Council. studio (render)

78 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 INFRASTRUCTURE • 79 2023 2026 New Sydney Fish Market The Western Sydney Aerotropolis The $250 million relocation and The Western Sydney Aerotropolis is a redevelopment of the Sydney Fish Market is business and residential hub that will be due to open in 2023 at the southern end of built around the planned Western Sydney Blackwattle Bay, Sydney Harbour. The design Airport, due to open 2026. The accessible was commissioned last year, led by Danish and innovative 24-hour city combines nine architects 3XN, in partnership with Sydney precincts in 11,200 hectares, including a new firms BVN and Aspect Studios, and includes town centre, recreational facilities, homes new public wharves, a waterfront promenade, for all ages, parks and sports fields, as and a new ferry stop as well as a timber and well as a world-class health and education aluminium roof inspired by fish scales that precinct. The NSW Government has signed will float over the building. Relocating the fish international investment agreements with market to the new site will return Blackwattle three of Japan’s biggest multinational Bay’s foreshore to the public, improve companies — Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, the pedestrian and cycling links and connect Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group and Hitachi more of Pyrmont to the water. to strengthen the development of the Western Aerotropolis.

TRANSPORT NEWS

• Parramatta Light Rail will connect • The NSW Government is investing $470 communities and transform the way people million to build the M4 Smart Motorway, move around Western Sydney. The major which will introduce intelligent technology infrastructure project is being delivered by to reduce stop-start traffic and improve the NSW Government as part of a record travel times. The project will create the $87.2 billion infrastructure investment first smart motorway of its kind in NSW across the State. Initial works to remediate and include a 35km upgrade along the M4 the site of the future light rail depot in Motorway from Granville's to Camellia have begun. the Blue Mountains region of Lapstone. The new motorway will use real time- • New Metro Rail will run from Sydney’s information and traffic management 2056 Northwest region under Sydney Harbour, systems to ease congestion, manage A tale of three cities: Metropolitan NSW freight gateways, and strong service-based through new underground stations in industries. The Metropolitan NSW plan incidents and improve road safety. By 2056, Greater Sydney will be a metropolis the CBD to Bankstown in the Southwest. is part of The NSW State Infrastructure of ‘three cities’ – an Eastern Harbour City, When services start in 2019 in the city's Strategy 2018–2038, which builds on the NSW Central River City and Western Parkland northwest, trains will go every four Government’s major long-term infrastructure Above: Light rail in Sydney City. Residents will be able to access jobs minutes in peak time. By 2024, Sydney Opposite: New Sydney Fish Market (render) plans over the last seven years. and services within 30 minutes. Newcastle, will have 31 metro stations and a 66km Wollongong and Gosford will be important For more information, visit Infrastructure of metro railway, transforming the way economic hubs with key transport and NSW online. Sydney travels.

80 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 INFRASTRUCTURE • 81 CRUISE

Cruising is one of the fastest growing segments of the global leisure travel market and NSW is leading the way with four major cruise ports.

82 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 Sydney Harbour CRUISE • 83 THE PORTS

NSW has four major cruise ports: diverse experiences for visitors. Newcastle Sydney, Newcastle, Port Kembla offers beautiful beaches, intriguing history, (Wollongong) and Eden. great dining and activities such as canoe tours, guided walks and dolphin-watching cruises. It’s also the gateway to the Hunter SYDNEY Valley, Australia’s oldest wine region. As one of the world’s great harbour cities and a ‘marquee’ port, Sydney is the region’s PORT KEMBLA (WOLLONGONG) premier cruise ship destination and an essential stop for any cruise to Australia. This region just south of Sydney sits in the Sydney is the only Australian city to have two shadows of a striking 30-million-year-old dedicated cruise terminals – the Overseas rock escarpment. It has an abundance of Above: Newcastle coastline Passenger Terminal at Circular Quay and natural beauty and a string of golden beaches Below: Cruise ship White Bay Cruise Terminal – and four cruise stretching along the coast that offer plenty of in Eden berths. Passengers enjoy a view of Sydney opportunities to swim, surf, picnic or play. Opposite: Wollongong Harbour’s icons, the Sydney Harbour Bridge coastline and Sydney Opera House, from outside the EDEN cabin door and, once on shore, easy access to the city’s major attractions including Home to the third-deepest natural harbour beaches, national parks, zoos and aquariums, in the world, the relaxed coastal town of restaurants and bars, theatres, and shopping. Eden on the Sapphire Coast is surrounded by national parks, sandy beaches and pristine waterways, and is renowned for its oysters NEWCASTLE and other seafood. Popular activities include Located on the NSW Central Coast, whale watching, deep-sea fishing, kayaking, Newcastle is the State’s second largest city surfing and exploring the stunning hinterland and a vibrant port with many exciting and countryside.

84 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 CRUISE • 85 THE CRUISE INDUSTRY THE FUTURE

NSW leads the Australian cruise boom. 14 ships visits to the port. Port Kembla, which In July 2018 the NSW Government released its The NSW coast has a number of smaller The Australian Cruise Association reported received its first ever cruise ship visit in 2016- first Cruise Development Plan (CDP). The CDP destinations that may attract visits from the that, in 2017-2018, the Australian cruise 2017, received two visits in the past season. delivers on a recommendation in the Visitor growing expedition, luxury and specialty cruise markets. The NSW Government has industry as a whole contributed $4.8 billion In 2018, Virgin Australia launched a world- Economy Industry Action Plan to create a announced an investigation of opportunities to the economy. NSW was the biggest first service that allowed cruise passengers long-term plan for the NSW cruise industry. at Coffs Harbour with other potential ports contributor, with $2.8 billion flowing into the to check in and drop off their bags for Destination NSW works with cruise lines, including Yamba, Port Stephens, Port national economy. domestic flights once their ship has docked ground handlers and the tourism industry to continue to capture the most significant share Macquarie and South West Rocks. In 2017-2018 the State welcomed a total of at either of Sydney’s cruise terminals. This of the economic benefits delivered by the 368 cruise ship visits from 44 individual ships new technology creates a seamless visitor Both Newcastle and Eden are currently growing cruise sector. across its four principal ports. The 2017-18 experience, allowing passengers to spend the engaged in infrastructure development cruise season saw a record 341 ship visits day in Sydney unencumbered before making In 2018-19, Newcastle is expecting 26 projects that will be completed in 2019. to Sydney, including seven maiden voyages, their way to the airport. cruise ship visits bringing more than 28,000 Newcastle’s $800,000 moorings bollard bringing more than 1.6 million passengers into passengers into the region. These figures upgrade will enable it to welcome ships the city. Newcastle had 11 ship visits during include seven maiden visits, one of which carrying more than 3,900 passengers to its Above: Cruise ship in Sydney Harbour the season (up from five visits in 2016-2017), Opposite: La Perouse in Sydney, and the Cruise will be Explorer of the Seas, the largest cruise new $12.7 million cruise terminal. In Eden, the including three maiden calls, and Eden had Development Port ship ever to call at Newcastle. Eden is also $44 million Breakwater Wharf Extension will predicting growth with 17 ships scheduled to allow vessels over 300m to berth in the cove visit, including six maiden calls. and provide direct land access for passengers.

86 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 CRUISE • 87 AIR

Home to one of the busiest airports in the world and with construction underway for the new $5.3 billion Western Sydney airport, New South Wales is flying high.

88 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 Sydney Airport AIR • 89 AIRLINE & PASSENGER NEWS

Sydney Airport is Australia’s main NEW ROUTES LAUNCHED IN 2017-2018 international gateway and the country’s • Wuhan, China – China Eastern Airlines busiest airport for scheduled international and domestic passenger services. In 2017- • Hanoi, Vietnam – Vietnam Airlines 2018, 41% of international arrivals to Australia • Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam – Jetstar landed at Sydney Airport. • Apia, Samoa – Samoan Airlines The airport is serviced by 47 airlines flying to 57 international and 48 domestic destinations. • Qingdao, China – Beijing Capital Airlines In 2017-2018, three new airlines began flying • Haikou, China – Hainan Airlines to Sydney; Samoa Airlines, Beijing Capital • Zhengzhou, China – Tianjin Airlines Airlines and Tianjin Airlines. • Houston, USA – United Airlines Sydney Airport is the busiest in Australia and in 2018 was used by 44.4 million passengers (up 2.5% from 43.3 million in 2017). WESTERN SYDNEY AIRPORT International passenger numbers grew by Construction of the new $5.3 billion Western almost one million to a total of 16.7 million. Sydney Airport began in late 2018. The airport Of the nationalities arriving into the airport, will open in 2026 with one runway and the India was the fastest growing market (+13.8%) capacity to handle 10 million passengers per followed by the USA (+9.4%), Japan (+7.4%) and year. It will developed in stages as demand Indonesia (+5.8%). grows and a second runway will be added. The airport will be 10km from the nearest built-up According to the Sydney Airport Master area, meaning that it can operate without a Plan 2039, released in August 2018, passenger curfew (unlike Sydney Airport). numbers are forecast to increase by more than 50% to 65.6 million in the next 20 years. International passengers are expected to NEWCASTLE AIRPORT be the main drivers of growth, particularly Newcastle Airport is the State’s second passengers from major Asian markets, busiest, serving more than 1.27 million including China, India, South Korea passengers each year. Sydney, Brisbane, and Vietnam. Melbourne and the Gold Coast are the Sydney Airport is one of the world’s oldest primary routes. continually operating airports and will In 2018, Newcastle Airport launched its first celebrate its centenary in 2019. A range of international flights in 16 years when Virgin community initiatives will take place during Australia began operating seasonal flights the year including heritage walks, photography (November to February) between Newcastle displays, airport tours and events. and Auckland three times a week. The flights depart from the airports new $1.6 million international processing facilities. The 2036 Newcastle Airport Vision master plan, published in March 2018, predicts that the airport will service more than 80,000 international passengers a year by 2021.

90 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 AIR • 91 EVENTS

At any time of the year in New South Wales, you’re guaranteed to find a festival, a performance or an exuberant celebration taking place.

92 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 Vivid Sydney EVENTS • 93 2019 EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

JANUARY Sydney Chinese New Year Festival 1-10 February Parkes Elvis™ Festival The Year of the Pig celebrations will run in 9-13 January early February 2019 and incorporate a Lunar The iconic Parkes Elvis™ Festival is a Lanterns exhibition, dragon boat races, celebration of the life and music of Elvis historical tours and film screenings. Presley held annually in Parkes, in the Central West of NSW. Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras 15 February – 3 March Sydney Festival The annual festival shines a global spotlight 9-27 January on LGBTQI lives, culture, communities and The Sydney Festival enlivens Sydney every creativity, and the highlight is the parade, a Summer with a bold cultural celebration bustling extravaganza that brings Sydney to of ideas, art and performance. The diverse a standstill. 2019 program runs from 9-27 January and showcases dramatic cabaret, interesting MARCH art installations, modern indigenous performances and live music. Longines Golden Slipper Carnival 23 March Toyota Country Music Festival Tamworth Golden Slipper 2019 at Rosehill Gardens is 18-27 January one of the biggest races on the Australian Byron Bay Bluesfest JUNE This celebration of country music is Autumn racing calendar. It is the richest 18-22 April True Grit Australia's largest music festival with over two-year-old race in the world and draws On the Easter long weekend at Tyagarah Tea 1-2 June 700 artists featured in 2,800 scheduled some of the best local and international Tree Farm, just north of Byron Bay, the Byron True Grit is Australia’s first military-inspired events across 120 venues and the famed horses to compete. Bay Bluesfest showcases music from all over obstacle challenge held in various locations Golden Guitar awards. the world with over 200 performances on five around Australia. The NSW event will be held stages, as well as market stalls, camping and APRIL in June with a 10-12km length course with Australia Day Celebrations Sydney children’s entertainment. over 30 obstacles that highlights the regional 26 January Orange F.O.O.D. Week natural terrain of Lower Portland. Begin at Barangaroo with a traditional 5-14 April MAY Aboriginal smoking ceremony, take in The Food Basket of NSW comes alive with Sydney Film Festival the sparkling Harbour extravaganza of tall the fresh, abundant produce of Orange, Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week 5-16 June ships then enjoy the Australia Day concert embracing sustainable practices and 12-18 May The world’s best new films (ones you won’t at Sydney Opera House. community spirit. In 2018, Orange F.O.O.D. MBFWA includes runway shows, trade find in the multiplex) come to Sydney for 12 Week became Australia’s first globally showrooms, a seminar series and a weekend days and nights of inspiring and entertaining ISO 20121-certified food and wine consumer event curated for fashion fans from FEBRUARY premieres, talks and parties at the State Sustainable Event. around the country, held at Carriageworks Theatre, as well as cinemas in the CBD, Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour contemporary multi-arts centre in Eveleigh. Newtown, Cremorne and Western Sydney. 1-3 February Sydney Royal Easter Show The Liqui-Moly Bathurst 12 Hour is a 12-23 April Vivid Sydney Peak Festival international endurance race with 12 hours Celebrating the Australian lifestyle from 24 May – 15 June 7-10 June of bumper to bumper supercar racing rural traditions to urban living, city and Vivid Sydney is the world’s largest festival Celebrate the opening weekend of the snow action at the esteemed Mount Panorama. country folk come together at the Sydney of light, music and ideas, celebrating the season at the Perisher Peak Festival, which Showground every year at Easter for diversity of Sydney’s creative energies with a will feature over 120 concerts across several agricultural and animal experiences, series of light art, innovative ideas programs venues in the unique environment of the carnival rides, entertainment and more. and cutting-edge music performances. Opposite: Sydney Festival, credit: Jamie Williams Perisher snowfields.

94 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 EVENTS • 95 JULY SEPTEMBER Splendour in The Grass Broken Heel Festival 19-21 July 13-15 September Held near beautiful Byron Bay and Find desert, disco and plenty of divas at the affectionately known as just Splendour, this one-of-a-kind Broken Heel Festival. This three day festival showcases top line global festival celebrates the iconic Australian film music acts as well as the very best emerging Priscilla Queen of the Desert with three days talents from the Aussie music scene. of music, cabaret, markets, parties and more in Broken Hill. AUGUST Blackmores Sydney Running Festival Bangalow Music Festival 15 September OCTOBER Coates Hire Newcastle 500 9-11 August One of the most scenic runs in the world, the 22-24 November Southern Cross soloists present the 2018 Deni Ute Muster Blackmores Sydney Running Festival consists Supercars will take over the streets of Bangalow Music Festival, a unique long 4-5 October of four exciting events, all crossing the Sydney Newcastle for the Coates Hire Newcastle 500. weekend getaway full of world-class The Deni Ute Muster is an iconic rural event Harbour Bridge and three finishing at the There will be three days of non-stop on-track chamber music. with 24 hours of live music, Ute Show N action as teams battle it out in the final round of iconic Sydney Opera House. Shine competition, Bullride Spectacular the Virgin Australia Supercars Championship. Festa delle Salsicce (Rodeo), NSW Whip Cracking Championships, Tulip Time 25 August woodchop demonstrations, helicopter rides, 24 September – 7 October L’Étape Australia by Le Tour de France Experience the jovial atmosphere of circus, camel rides and more. One of Australia’s oldest and largest flower 29-30 November Griffith’s Festa delle Salsicce (Festival of festivals, showcasing over 100,000 colourful L’Étape Australia by Le Tour de France is the Sausage) where you can eat, drink, chat Sculpture by the Sea tulips in the Corbett Gardens in Bowral. a unique road cycle event that provides an and enjoy traditional folk music over a long 24 October – 10 November experience close to riding in the Tour de lunch to celebrate the end of the salami- The world’s largest annual free outdoor France. It is held in the NSW Snowy Mountains making season. sculpture exhibition will be back on the cliffs on 170km of fully closed roads, under of Bondi for its 23rd year. The two-kilometre professional conditions. walk features more than 100 works by artists from Australia and around the world, all set against a stunning ocean backdrop. DECEMBER Rolex Sydney Hobart Race Grafton Jacaranda Festival 26 December 26 October – 3 November The start of this annual yachting event on The Grafton Jacaranda Festival is the longest Sydney Harbour is a Boxing Day tradition. running floral festival in Australia, held under The twin start lines are just north of Shark canopies of purple blossoms, with a program Island and onshore, JANUS et Cie Sydney Race of markets, open gardens, art exhibitions and Village hosts activities for all ages. the crowning of the Jacaranda Queen. NYE 2020 on Sydney Harbour NOVEMBER 31 December Have an unforgettable New Year’s Eve 2019 ARIA Awards watching the festivities from vantage points on November the edge of Sydney Harbour, with Welcome to This flagship event of the Australian music Country, aerial displays, Harbour of Lights and calendar celebrates the brilliance and the iconic fireworks. diversityof the Aussie music scene. The Australian music industry’s biggest night of celebration is now in its 33rd year and Above: Sculpture by the Sea, credit: Ross Duggan features globally successful local acts. Opposite: Blackmores Sydney Running Festival

96 • DESTINATION NSW • MEDIA KIT 2019 EVENTS • 97