Important Information

Please keep in mind that AMYC occurs around the same time that some states are on “Schoolies”, and popular places in Queensland are the Gold Coast and the theme parks, so expect it to be quite a loud and busy time at some of these places! So… on to the attractions…

Beaches

There’s a reason why other people steal our sand - it’s because it’s so nice! Around Brisbane, you have two choices for beaches: you can go north to the Sunshine Coast or go south to the Gold Coast.

• Unlike the Gold Coast, the Sunshine Coast is not one beach per se. It is a reference to the many beach areas up the coast, about 1-2 hours drive. These areas include: Caloundra, Maroochydore, Mooloolaba and Noosa. Generally speaking, these beaches are (argued by some to be) nicer than the Gold Coast and less populated, especially during Schoolies time.
• The Gold Coast is one of the most famous places in Australia. It is conveniently located and can be travelled to from Brisbane by car or train in about an hour. There are actually numerous beaches here, but the main attraction is Surfer’s Paradise, which is basically where the main hub of restaurants, hotels, markets and of course, Main Beach, reside. Also on the way to the Gold Coast is a popular shopping destination, Harbour Town, which has many factory outlet stores, restaurants and even a cinema.

Brisbane

In and around Brisbane CBD there are a few places you might like to visit:

• Queen St Mall is essentially the heart of Brisbane CBD – there are shops and restaurants everywhere.
• The CityCat, Brisbane’s ferry service, is a cheap way to cruise the Brisbane River and enjoy the view from the water. To do a round trip takes you almost out to the river mouth and all the way in as far as the University of Queensland. Buying a daily ticket also allows easy transfer between places such as the Mall and South Bank if you don’t like walking.

• Gardens/Parks: The City Botanic Gardens are just a short walk from the CBD. Another popular place to visit is the Roma Street Parklands, which has recently been refurbished and is a nice place to have a picnic and walkabout. It is about 5 minutes by public transport from the CBD. New Farm Park is also just a short ferry trip away.
• South Bank/Cultural Centre: These areas are a mere 5 minutes from the CBD and are home to large variety of places to visit. South Bank has many restaurants, open picnic/BBQ areas and a manmade beach. The Cultural Centre is aptly named as it cross-links the Queensland Museum, Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art (GoMA), Sciencentre, State Library and the Queensland Performing Arts Centre. Unlike some other states, general entry to the museum and art gallery is free!

• Other: Mt Coot-tha Lookout overlooks Brisbane city and is a popular scenic place to visit. Along the Brisbane River, there are a host of other recreational activities including rock climbing, kayaking, abseiling, rollerblading and cycling.

Islands

There are 3 islands in South-East Queensland which are popular travelling destinations. Just be sure to do your research if you’re planning on going!

• Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world and arguably the nicest of the islands to visit. It is home to some of the most pristine lagoons and rainforests in Australia.
• Moreton Island is in some ways similar to Fraser Island in that it has many nice fresh water lagoons, sand dunes, beaches and forests.
• North Stradbroke Island is a large island which has a large variety of places to visit – beaches, parks and BBQ areas, and is also home to a famous, large freshwater lake called Blue Lake.

Theme Parks

The most well-known theme parks are those near the Gold Coast. These include Dreamworld/WhiteWater World, Movie World, Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World and Sea World. Which ones should you visit?

• Dreamworld/WhiteWater World – If you ever wanted to go on roller-coasters or adrenaline-pumping rides, this is where you want to go. WhiteWater World is next door to Dreamworld, but focuses more on aquatic rides and adventures. Entry to the two theme parks is separately managed, but a pass can be bought which allows you access to both areas if you so wish.
• Movie World – Self-descriptive; has lots of entertaining shows, thrill rides, stores and that general feeling of being in a movie wherever you go.
• Wet ‘n’ Wild Water World – In the Sunshine State and in Summer, a theme park full of gigantic waterslides, tunnels and rides is definitely a must visit!
• Sea World – If you’re more laid-back and into seeing animals and animal shows rather than the heart-stopping excitement of rides, this is the place to go. Be aware that “extras” such as helicopter rides will cost more and may need to be booked in advance.
• Another popular ‘theme park’ is the Australia Zoo, where Steve Irwin used to work! It is located approximately one hour north of Brisbane. It has everything and more that you’d expect to see and do at a zoo, including crocodile feeding, koala exhibits, elephant feeding and snake handling.

More information at:

http://www.ourbrisbane.com

http://www.150mustdos.com.au/