8-Day Tour: Discover Moree’s Culture & Lightning Ridge’s Opals | 16-23 July 2025

This morning, we join a morning tea cruise along the Brisbane River. Sit back and relax as our captain provides informative commentary while we cruise past Brisbane’s most iconic sights, including Kangaroo Point Cliffs, the city centre, and the Story Bridge.

Next, we visit Newstead House, a beautiful heritage-listed building where we learn about the history of the property and its surrounding area. Lunch today is at the famous Breakfast Creek Hotel. With a history dating back to 1889, the hotel was one of the first to offer beer garden-style dining and also opened Brisbane’s first drive-through bottle shop in the 1960s.

After lunch, we visit Brisbane City Hall, the largest in Australia. City Hall is the heart of Brisbane for locals and often hosts major cultural, social, and civic events. We enjoy a guided tour to discover its rich history and, for those who wish, ride the city’s oldest working cage lift to the top of the Clock Tower. The tour also includes a visit to the Museum of Brisbane, which explores everyday people and places, uncovering unexpected and fascinating stories.

We return to our hotel with some free time at leisure. Tonight, we dine at Black Hide. Drawing on three generations of the Gambaro Group, Black Hide delivers an exciting dining experience with premium seafood, renowned steaks, and stunning river views.

Breakfast at hotel | Lunch at Breakfast Creek Hotel | Dinner at Black Hide

After breakfast and with our bags packed, we make our way north for the homeward journey.
We’ll have time to stretch our legs and purchase lunch before arriving home with memories of a fantastic tour of Brisbane.

Breakfast at hotel | Lunch at own expense

This morning, we join a morning tea cruise along the Brisbane River. Sit back and relax as our captain provides informative commentary while we cruise past Brisbane’s most iconic sights, including Kangaroo Point Cliffs, the city centre, and the Story Bridge.

Next, we visit Newstead House, a beautiful heritage-listed building where we learn about the history of the property and its surrounding area. Lunch today is at the famous Breakfast Creek Hotel. With a history dating back to 1889, the hotel was one of the first to offer beer garden-style dining and also opened Brisbane’s first drive-through bottle shop in the 1960s.

After lunch, we visit Brisbane City Hall, the largest in Australia. City Hall is the heart of Brisbane for locals and often hosts major cultural, social, and civic events. We enjoy a guided tour to discover its rich history and, for those who wish, ride the city’s oldest working cage lift to the top of the Clock Tower. The tour also includes a visit to the Museum of Brisbane, which explores everyday people and places, uncovering unexpected and fascinating stories.

We return to our hotel with some free time at leisure. Tonight, we dine at Black Hide. Drawing on three generations of the Gambaro Group, Black Hide delivers an exciting dining experience with premium seafood, renowned steaks, and stunning river views.

Breakfast at hotel | Lunch at Breakfast Creek Hotel | Dinner at Black Hide

After breakfast and with our bags packed, we make our way north for the homeward journey.
We’ll have time to stretch our legs and purchase lunch before arriving home with memories of a fantastic tour of Brisbane.

Breakfast at hotel | Lunch at own expense

Rise and shine early this morning — it’s time to explore Nimbin! With everyone on board, we take a beautiful scenic drive to Nimbin, nestled in the foothills of the Nightcap National Park. On arrival, we will be met by our local tour guide.

We begin by exploring the iconic Nimbin Bush Theatre and its stunning riverside setting. This vibrant cultural hub is housed within the historic Old Butter Factory. From here, we visit the Nimbin Candle Factory, which has been making beautiful, traditional, non-toxic candles using essential oils and vegetable dyes since 1973. Watch how the candles are created using a water-powered dipping deck, inspired by equipment used in ancient monasteries.

We then return to the Nimbin Bush Theatre to enjoy a delicious lunch. With our appetite satisfied, we take a relaxed stroll along the new Rainbow Road Walk and admire works by local artists. This purpose-built track offers visitors a safe, enjoyable, and active way to experience the natural surroundings while connecting with cultural and artistic expression.

Before heading back to Murwillumbah, we stop at Nimbin Village for some shopping, a taste of hippie culture, and a visit to the afternoon farmers’ market. After a fabulous day, we return to our accommodation to freshen up before enjoying dinner at the Murwillumbah Services Club.

Continental breakfast at Motor Inn | Lunch at Nimbin Bush Theatre | Dinner at Murwillumbah Services Club

This is the final day of our tour, but not the end — today promises one more adventure before we return home. After breakfast, we depart Murwillumbah and head towards the Beechmont Hotel in Advancetown for a morning stop, passing through the historic towns of Crystal Creek and Natural Bridge along the way.

Our journey continues to the Beaudesert Historical Museum, where we enjoy morning tea and explore the fascinating exhibits. The museum plays a vital role in preserving the stories and legacies of the pioneers from the early Moreton Bay settlement through to the present day.

We then make our way to Ipswich for lunch at the Jets Leagues Club, beautifully set in a heritage-listed building that blends classic architecture with warm hospitality.

In the afternoon, we take a picturesque drive home via Lake Wivenhoe and Kilcoy, arriving at Landsborough with time to purchase afternoon tea. Back on board, sit back, relax, and reflect on the experiences of the past few days as we make our way home — filled with memories of our incredible journey through the lush hinterland and vibrant heart of Nimbin.

Continental breakfast at Motor Inn | Lunch at Ipswich Jets Leagues Club

This morning, we have some time to explore Cataract Gorge, a magnificent reserve in the city centre. At your own pace, stroll along the pleasant walks through the landscaped gardens to the tea rooms, or take a ride on the chairlift (own expense) which crosses the gorge.

Our next stop is Entally House, one of Tasmania’s Historic Trust Houses, thought to have been built in 1819 and opened to the public in 1950. We enjoy morning tea, a talk, and a look around the property and outbuildings.

Located in the foothills of the Great Western Tiers mountain range, we arrive in Deloraine. Here, we visit the Yarns Artwork in Silk, a large-scale textile artwork with four soft sculptured panels made of hand-dyed silk. The main highlight here is the light and sound show presentation in the auditorium. Also, wander through the indoor/outdoor museum and gift shop before taking time to purchase lunch (own expense) in town.

This afternoon, we stop just outside Devonport for a tasting and possibly a treat at the House of Anvers Chocolate Factory. Located on the property grounds formerly known as Wyndarra Lodge, this stylish 1931 Californian Bungalow is set on 12 hectares of gardens with mature trees and plants from all over the world.

Arriving in Devonport, we check into our accommodation with time to settle in before dinner.

Argosy Motor Inn, Devonport | 2 nights 
Breakfast and dinner at motel | Lunch at own expense

Today, we explore the picturesque north-west coast of Tasmania. The drive offers beautiful views as the Bass Highway winds its way along the coast—often right next to the water.

Our first stop this morning is the village of Penguin, which sits on the shores of Bass Strait. The town is named after a nearby rookery and pays tribute to its feathered friends with a three-metre-tall sculpture, The Big Penguin, proudly standing on the esplanade to commemorate the town’s centenary in 1975.

Travelling west, we arrive in Wynyard for our morning tea break before continuing through towns such as Table Cape and Boat Harbour Beach, admiring the magnificent coastal views along the way.

As we approach Stanley, you’ll notice an ancient volcanic rock formation on the horizon—The Nut. Nestled at its base is the historic fishing village of Stanley. Rich in early Tasmanian history, this charming town boasts beautifully preserved heritage buildings.

Upon arrival, we enjoy lunch before taking the chairlift to the summit of The Nut, where we are treated to spectacular views across Bass Strait and over the township. This is said to be one of the prettiest spots on the north-west coast of Tasmania.

Mid-afternoon, we return to Devonport.

Breakfast and dinner at motel | Lunch at Stanley Hotel

Today, we travel south towards Cradle Mountain–Lake St Clair National Park, home to rugged peaks, ancient rainforests, and stunning alpine scenery.

We tour the national park and visit key sights including Dove Lake, a glacially carved lake directly beneath Cradle Mountain, offering breathtaking views. We also explore Waldheim Chalet, once the forest home of pioneer Gustav Weindorfer.

Lunch will be served at the Cradle Mountain Hotel, followed by a visit to Devils @ Cradle, a conservation sanctuary dedicated to Tasmania’s iconic devil. Our guide will introduce us to the alpine lifestyle of these unique creatures. We’ll then enter a special viewing area for an up-close encounter—where we may see the devils sunbathing, resting in dens, or roaming in their enclosures.

We continue our journey via Zeehan, arriving in Strahan where we will stay for the next three nights.

Strahan Village | 3 nights 
Breakfast and dinner at motel | Lunch at Cradle Mountain Hotel

Today, we’re in for a truly scenic experience as we join a World Heritage Cruise through the wild and remote waters of Macquarie Harbour and the Gordon River. This immersive cruise brings the river’s beauty and history to life for a memorable day on the water.

As we travel the tranquil waterways, we’ll hear fascinating stories about the region’s past, pass through Hells Gates, and step ashore Sarah Island to view some of Australia’s oldest convict ruins. A highlight of the cruise is the serenity and mirror-like reflections of the Gordon River, offering one of Tasmania’s most iconic natural sights.

We’ll also enjoy a boardwalk stroll through ancient rainforest at Heritage Landing, where you’ll get a close look at the incredible Huon pine trees, some of the oldest living organisms on Earth.

After a stunning day on the water, we return to Strahan. In the early evening, enjoy a lively performance of “The Ship That Never Was”, a pre-dinner show that brings convict history to life through humour and storytelling, depicting the fate of Sarah Island’s last convicts.

Breakfast and dinner at motel | Lunch included

We join the West Coast Wilderness Railway for a return rail journey on the *Rinadeena, Rack and Rainforest route. We board the heritage steam train at Queenstown Station and travel to Lynchford, once a hub for pioneers, adventurers, and those chasing gold.

Travelling in the Wilderness Carriage, we begin with a glass of Tasmanian sparkling wine and canapés, followed by a traditional Devonshire tea. At Lynchford Station, we disembark to follow in the footsteps of early settlers—try your luck panning for gold or explore the fascinating Lynchford Museum.

As the train begins its ascent towards Rinadeena Saddle, enjoy the feeling of complete immersion in the rainforest. Along the way, we experience three kilometres of the unique rack and pinion railway, a historically significant innovation still central to this railway’s cultural heritage. At Rinadeena Station, once a small settlement where families lived and worked, we take some time to explore before boarding for our return to Queenstown.

A light lunch will be included during the day’s experience.

In the afternoon, we visit the Eric Thomas Galley Museum, located in the heritage-listed Imperial Hotel, built in 1887 from locally made bricks. The museum showcases 30 themed rooms of historical significance, sharing the story of survival, endurance, and sacrifice. It also provides a personal record of the people and their lives shaped by the discovery of gold and other minerals at Mount Lyell in the last century.

Breakfast and dinner at motel | Lunch included

Leaving Strahan, we journey into the pristine wilderness of the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park, stopping at the impressive Nelson Falls for our morning tea break.

We continue to Derwent Bridge, known as the geographical centre of Tasmania, where we enjoy lunch at the Wilderness Hotel. Afterwards, we visit the Wall in the Wilderness, a magnificent art installation that tells the story of the region through intricately carved wooden panels. When complete, the “Wall” will stretch 100 metres in length—an awe-inspiring tribute to Tasmania’s rich heritage.

In the afternoon, we continue our scenic drive towards Hobart, taking in the spectacular Tasmanian landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, we check into our accommodation and enjoy dinner at the motel.

Wrest Point Hotel Casino, Hobart | 2 nights 
Breakfast and dinner at motel | Lunch at Wilderness Hotel

We’re fortunate to be in Hobart on a Saturday—perfect timing to visit the vibrant Salamanca Markets. Set beneath a canopy of elm trees, the markets host hundreds of stallholders, offering a wide array of local crafts, jewellery, fashion, and gourmet produce. Enjoy time at your leisure to wander through the stalls and purchase lunch (own expense).

In the afternoon, we join a guided tour of Hobart, learning about this charming city set between Mount Wellington and the Derwent River. Founded in 1804 as a penal colony, Hobart is Australia’s second-oldest capital city, where history greets you at every turn.

Our final visit is to the Cascades Female Factory, a self-contained, purpose-built institution designed to reform female convicts. During the early 1800s, approximately 7,000 women passed through the gates of this historic site. Our guided tour offers insight into the punishment, reform, and daily life of the women transported to Van Diemen’s Land.

For our final evening, we enjoy a special farewell dinner at the Point Revolving Restaurant, where panoramic views over Hobart and the Derwent River provide a stunning backdrop to reflect on our journey.

Breakfast and dinner at hotel | Lunch own expense

After breakfast, we farewell our hosts and make our way to Hobart Airport for our return flight home. We arrive later this afternoon, bringing to a close our wonderful holiday through the wild and beautiful West Coast Tasmania.

Breakfast at hotel | Lunch own expense

We depart Perth this morning and head to the town of York for our morning break. This quaint village is full of beautiful old buildings and there is little doubt that it is one of the best-preserved and restored nineteenth-century towns in Australia. At lunch time we arrive in the town of Hyden where we have lunch at the Wildflower Café. This afternoon we see one of Western Australia’s most famous landmarks, Wave Rock. Located just 4 kilometres east of Hyden, geologists believe the original formation was vertical but has been sculptured and coloured by chemicals over 2,700 million years to take on its wave-like character. With our locally based guide to show us around it will be a fascinating afternoon.

Hyden Wave Rock Hotel Motel 

(Breakfast and dinner at motel | Lunch Wildflower Café)

Today we head south to the stunning Stirling Ranges National Park for great views of Bluff Knoll, the highest and one of the most spectacular peaks in south western Australia. We soak up the views while enjoying our picnic lunches. We continue on this afternoon and make our way to Albany, one of the oldest settlements in Western Australia, known for its stunning coastlines and rugged cliffs. Albany also holds the honour of being the birthplace of the Anzac story and is home to the National Anzac Centre, where we have the privilege of visiting today. The state-of-the-art museum uses multimedia, interactive exhibits and historical artefacts to create a deeply personal connection with the past and pay tribute to those who served in WWI. Later this afternoon we check into our accommodation to settle in for the next two nights.

Hilton Garden Inn Albany | 2 nights 

(Breakfast and dinner at motel | Packed lunch included)

This morning we join Albany Ocean Adventures for a cruise through King George Sound. Leaving the marina we look forward to seeing the historic sights plus an abundance of wildlife as well as enjoying the natural beauty of the area. Morning tea is served onboard as our skipper provides interesting commentary about what we are seeing. After the cruise we drive to nearby Frenchman Bay, the location of Albany’s Historic Whaling Station, which now records the history of whaling here. We enjoy lunch here before a guided tour of the station. On the way back we make a couple of stops to view the southern coastline of the Torndirrup National Park. There are numerous natural attractions here including The Gap and The Bridge – each providing great views of the coast.

(Breakfast and dinner at the motel | Lunch at Whalers Galley Cafe)

Leaving Albany behind, our first stop for the day is the area known as the “Valley of the Giants” in the Walpole National Park. We divert from the main highway and travel through this dense forest of unique hardwood tingle trees where we are booked for a Tree Top Walk! 40 metres up in the canopy, we explore this world-class tree-top walk which soars gently upwards amidst the tingle foliage and opens a world of birds and flowers that most people never see. Today’s lunch will be at the Manjimup Heritage Park, where we will also visit the PowerUp and State Timber Museums. Discover the history of the State’s timber industry and how it continues to play an important role for people living in the Southern Forest Region, and learn about the evolution of electricity in Western Australia. We finish the day by arriving in Busselton, and checking into our accommodation, situated ideally with the beach at the back door.

Abbey Beach Resort, Busselton | 2 nights 

(Breakfast and dinner at motel | Lunch at PARK Manjimup Café)

Margaret River is one of the most unique destinations, known for its world-class wine alongside unspoilt coastline, stunning inland rivers, and ancient underground caves. This morning we drive south along the scenic Caves Road which takes us past the Margaret River mouth to Mammoth Cave. The magical, gothic-like limestone cave is a natural time capsule, home to the ancient fossil remains of the long-extinct giant animals known as Australian Megafauna. After a guided tour here, we visit the Cave Works Interpretive Centre where we will learn more about the formation and history of caves within the region. Next, we travel south to Cape Leeuwin stopping for lunch at the Augusta Hotel, overlooking the Hardy Inlet. We then take a look at the historic Cape Leeuwin Lighthouse. The lighthouse is situated at the most south-westerly tip of Australia, standing at the point where the Indian and Southern Oceans meet. A visit to Margaret River would not be complete without a wine tasting so we finish off our day at the beautiful Leeuwin Estate Winery, one of the founding wineries in the Margaret River region.

(Breakfast and dinner at the motel | Lunch at Augusta Hotel)

This morning we call into iconic Busselton Jetty, extending 1.8 kilometres across stunning Geographe Bay, it is the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. We jump aboard the leisurely train, taking in the 360-degree views of the Indian Ocean as we journey across the calm, clear waters. At the end of the jetty is the Underwater Observatory, allowing us to experience one of Australia’s greatest artificial reefs. Descending eight metres below the surface, we’ll be led through the natural wonders that lie beneath the jetty. Departing Busselton travel north up the coast, pausing in Bunbury to purchase lunch. This afternoon we arrive in Fremantle where we conclude our day in style by joining Captain Cook Cruises for their one-way Fremantle to Perth Cruise.

Pan Pacific Perth 

(Breakfast and dinner at hotel | Lunch at own expense)

Today our tour sadly comes to an end. We make our way to Perth Airport to board our flight home. We arrive home this afternoon after a fantastic adventure to South West WA.

(Breakfast at the hotel | Lunch at own expense)