13 Dec 08 Dunk Island

The spectacular north Queensland island, known as Dunk Island, is found approximately 120 kilometers south of Cairns and 160 kilometers north of Townsville. Located just four kilometers off the coast of Mission Beach, Dunk Island measures in at six kilometers long and two kilometers wide. The island also has a beautiful tropical climate spawning an average year round temperature of roughly 29 degrees Celsius.

As history goes, Dunk Island was originally known as Coonangleba, meaning ‘Island of Peace and Plenty’, by the local indigenous Australians that inhabited the area. Only in 1770, when James Cook was exploring the Queensland coastline, did Dunk Island acquire its European name after the Earl of Halifax, George Montagu Dunk. From its historical beginnings to the present day, many people have since visited the island to enjoy its unique majestic nature.

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28 Nov 08 Backpacker Hostels and Budget Accommodation

Ranging from the busy Mackay City to the seclusion of Pioneer Valley, backpacker hostels and budget accommodation can be found almost anywhere in the Mackay region. From the small family operated businesses to the larger youth hostel establishments, each form of budget accommodation prides itself on the comfort and cleanliness of the entire building.

In Mackay budget accommodation the features and services may vary, but can include air-conditioned rooms, communal kitchen and lounge area with TV, games room, internet connections, luggage lockers and Laundromat. It can be expected that all linen is changed every day and beds re-made. Plus, all staff members are friendly, helpful and readily willing to share valuable local knowledge to enhance any travellers visit to Mackay.

Platypus Bush Camp
Gorge Rd Finch,
Hatton Queensland Australia 4756
Bookings: +617 4958 3204

Larrikin Lodge Backpackers
32 Peel St,
Mackay Queensland
Australia 4740
Freecall: 1800 611 953 (within Australia)
Phone +61 7 4951 3728 (from Overseas)

22 Nov 08 Mission Beach

Mission Beach is a small coastal town, located in the ‘Wet Tropics’ region of Northern Queensland. Known for its stunning natural beauty and as a perfect getaway point to some of the most elusive tropical islands off the Australian coast, Mission Beach is thought to be a haven for both international and national travelers.

In Australia, Mission Beach spans a tiny 22 kilometers and can be found approximately 150 kilometers south of Cairns and 230 kilometers north of Townsville, on the Cassowary Coast. Famous for its stunning beaches lined by World Heritage listed rainforest, Mission Beach also adjoins the Coral Sea, which encompasses island paradises like Dunk, Bedarra, Hinchinbrook and Orpheus, crystal clear waters and the most spectacular marine spectacle, The Great Barrier Reef.
Mission Beach is thriving with natural splendors and has everything necessary for an unimaginably magnificent travelers visit.

On the land, in the air and water, there is a fine selection of activities, attractions and entertainment opportunities awaiting Mission Beach visitors, both during the day and at night. A few popular enjoyment options, associated with Mission Beach and its surrounding areas include Tiger Moth scenic flights, white water rafting, fabulous fresh and saltwater fishing, the Babinda Boulders, National Park rainforest walks and a visit to Paronella Park.

Mission Beach is considered by many to be an appealingly quaint town, encompassing four welcoming communities. It  has a good variety of quality accommodation and terrific dining choices available to all travelers, on varying budgets.  Visitors to the area will also find public and private travel options are numerous and essential services, property information and employment facilities are readily available, in various locations throughout the township.

As one of Australia’s prime travel destinations, Mission Beach’s unique natural beauty has not been compromised due to its increasing popularity among visitors to Northern Queensland. Along with its surrounding mainland locations and exquisite collection of islands, Mission Beach has a lot to offer its visitors.

22 Nov 08 Diving and Snorkeling

The Great Barrier Reef right on the northern coast of Queensland. Diving and snorkelling off the coast provides every patron a truly unforgettable experience. Along with the spectacular reefs, snorkelling around the islands is fantastic and diving amongst a shipwreck is fascinatingly marvellous.

Novice and experienced divers or snorkelers can all revel in the under water beauty found anywhere along the Great Barrier Reef. There are a many professional dive operators in throughout the Great Barrier Reef region that rent appropriate equipment, take out dive tours and provide valuable training courses. Also, to find the best diving and snorkeling spots, talk with locals, inquire at the accommodation front desks and even try the Information Centers.