Newsletter July 2011

Office News

  • We had staff traveling to Red Centre & Gawler Ranges 
  • We welcome our new staff members Linda & Tamara. We are sure that they will be a wonderful asset to the team!

    • Product of the Month

    Tandara - It’s a little bit special 

    night-shot.JPGExperience Sydney in a whole new way…. Australia’s largest city now has a unique luxury camping experience in Lane Cove National Park, only 10 kilometres from the Sydney Harbour Bridge.   Tandara Luxury is the result of an innovative approach taken by Lane Cove River Caravan Tourist Park to offer something very different to what is usually found at a camping ground.

    inside.jpgGlamping (or glamorous camping) is a style of camping that allows you to experience the joys of camping without the hassles that can sometimes be involved.  With no setup required you can immediately relax and enjoy the intimate setting.  Glamping is not generally favoured by the traditionalist camper but it can still be a very attractive option for them and is a unique experience for Sydney. Tandara sets a new standard of excellence for camping. In fact, camping as a term does not do the concept justice.

    bath.jpgTandara Luxury camping is a spacious canvas tent designed for two people that has a full king size bed, quality bedding, wi-fi internet access, large flat screen TV, Foxtel, fridge, electronically controlled entertainment and lighting, easy chairs, floating wooden floor, and so much more.  The ‘pièce de résistance’ is the bathroom area.  
    The shower has two shower heads and dual controls which enables two people to shower at the same time. There is a full size bath, modern hand basin and exceptional quality fittings throughout. The bathroom has solid walls on three sides to ensure additional privacy but still has easy access from the main room. 

    Tandara Luxury is perched on the western side of the Lane Cove River valley in a very private setting and it is located totally within Lane Cove National Park. This truly individual site has privacy fencing, secure gated entry and a personal parking space. From the moment you step out of your car you appreciate the care and thought that has gone into the development of Tandara Luxury. From the elevated walkway that winds between the native flora you immediately feel the tranquility of the location. Tandara faces East so the morning sun will flood the substantial deck area, yet the accommodation area will be shaded by the surrounding bush and established native trees. 

    outside.jpgThe outside area has sun lounges and chairs with plenty of room to relax. There is a gourmet barbeque with oven and spit for your exclusive use as well as bicycles if you’re feeling energetic.  But it’s more likely you will spend the majority of your time merely relaxing and appreciating the unique setting. For your peace of mind there is 24 hour security on site every day of the year.

    Please contact APTC for rates and reservations

    What’s New

    Australia Wide

    Carbon Tax

    • The tourism industry in Australia is facing another challenge.
    • “Travel Daily” writes on 12 July 2011:   Tourism bodies have accused the Gillard government of once again turning its back on the industry amid warnings that the carbon tax will heap further pressure on already-struggling businesses.  The Queensland Tourism Export Council (QTIC) expressed “grave concerns” for the future of the industry while the Australian Tourism Export Council (ATEC) said the industry will face a further burden. QTIC chief executive Daniel Gschwind said the likely negative impact of the tax, on an industry still struggling in the aftermath of this year’s natural disasters, had been ignored. “Unlike other export-oriented industries including coal and other resource industries, tourism will not receive any compensation in the proposed package, which means the forgotten sectors like tourism will suffer as we shoulder a greater burden,” he said. Rising costs will encourage domestic travellers to visit cheaper overseas destinations, and discourage international travellers from visiting Australia, Gschwind warned. He suggested that consumer confidence will be hit with travel a lower priority for Australians with less disposable income as a result of the tax. ATEC chief executive Felicia Mariani echoed Gschwind’s views that tourism had been neglected. “The Australian tourism product is already seen as expensive with the high dollar and travel costs,” she said. “This tax will add a further burden to our price competitiveness and make Australia an even less affordable place to take a holiday.” Qantas and Virgin Australia yesterday said air fares will rise. The environmental benefits of the tax also came under fire. While Gschwind acknowledged it may help to achieve “a minimal reduction in greenhouse gas emissions,” he remained sceptical that it would affect big tourist drawcards such as the Great Barrier Reef which have already been substantially invested in by the Queensland tourism industry. “We have been making a significant investment, at a cost to businesses, to develop and implement sustainable practices for several years now,” he said.

    Rail Australia  - Fuel Price Surcharge

    • As a result of continued high fuel prices, the current fuel price surcharge for Platinum Service, Gold Service and Red Service tickets onboard The Ghan, Indian Pacific and The Overland will increase from 1 August 2011.
    • All bookings made prior to 1 August 2011 will be at the current prices, regardless of the date of travel.  However, all new bookings made on or after 1 August 2011 will attract the increased Fuel Price Surcharge.
    • The Surcharge will apply to all guests travelling on the Indian Pacific, The Ghan and The Overland. 
    • Prices for travel on The Southern Spirit will not be affected.

    New South Wales

    Merlin Entertainments acquires Sydney Attractions Group

    • Sydney Attractions Group is now owned by the Merlin Entertainments Group, effective immediately.
    • The group will be introducing Sydney’s own Madame Tussaud’s in May 2012, a 250m-tall Sydney Tower Eye including a 4D cinema experience in September this year, and they will refurbish and overhaul Sydney Aquarium which is to be re-opened as “Sea Life Sydney” in September 2012.

    Mercure Kooindah Waters Central Coast

    • New addition to  the Accor portfolio
    • Mercure Kooindah Waters Central Coast is a hotel with 84 rooms and resort style facilities, previously owned by Mantra as Kooindah Waters Golf & Spa Resort.
    • Along with a wine bar and specialty restaurant, the hotel also has a swimming pool, Day Spa, a ballroom and meeting rooms. Sports facilities include an 18-hole Golf Course, tennis courts and a variety of water sports all close by.
    • The hotel is located on the Central Coast of New South Wales, 90 minutes by road from Sydney city centre.
    • Mercure Kooindah Waters Central Coast is available for bookings from August 1st, 2011.

    Special Events Update: Sydney Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras 2011 - Dates now confirmed

    • Saturday 3 March 2012 will be a Special Event date requiring minimum nights & special conditions.
    • Please refer to our online tariff for Rates and Minimum Nights stay.

    Queensland

    HAYMAN

    • Hayman has reopened on 01 August according to plans.
    • This much anticipated occasion has followed months of extensive restoration, due to the destruction of Tropical Cyclones Anthony and Yasi early this year.
    • A new botanic garden abounds with stunning colour and perfume and some 33,000 new plants and 327 new plant species introduced by respected landscape designer, horticulturalist and personality, Jamie Durie.
    • Innovative restaurant concepts are being presented in the new Nic Graham-designed Fontaine (which is set to be Australia’s signature resort restaurant), the new look Azure and much-loved La Trattoria and Oriental restaurants.
    • The Hayman Activities hub boasts new floodlit tennis courts, extensive sports and trainingfacilities and is the starting point for the re-laid Hayman walking trail.
    • They also truly unveil our new Beach Villas offering an amazing beachfront experience.

    Grand Mercure Coolangatta

    • A further Grand Mercure will join the Accor network in Queensland, Australia.
    • Grand Mercure Apartments Coolangatta is an existing property of 45 rooms (formerly known as “Blue C Apartments”), guest facilities include a swimming pool, spa, sauna and gymnasium.
    • The hotel is located opposite Coolangatta beach, within walking distance of shops, restaurants and entertainment and 5 minutes from the Gold Coast International Airport.

    Reef House Resort & Spa  - A New Chapter Begins for Iconic Palm Cove Property

    • The resort’s award winning and world renowned Day Spa has been refreshed inside and out with new paintwork, installation of case goods and more. The day spa is like no other in Palm Cove and has to be experienced. All exclusive Spa treatments begin with an ancient foot ritual and Aboriginal smudging ceremony and ends with complimentary Lemon Myrtle & Wild Rosella Bud Tea served in the Serenity Room.
    • All accommodation rooms are now back on-line with a significant investment already made to refresh the existing room product. 
    • They have also developed a new and more efficient, reception area designed to take guest facilities and services to a brand new level.

    Rydges Tradewinds Cairns - Coral Sea Views with your Bacon & Eggs

    • The breakfast service at Rydges Tradewinds will now be served daily at Sea Level Food & Wine. Previously the breakfast service was provided at Latitude 137 Restaurant.
    • They are already receiving wonderful positive feedback from guests who’ve been experiencing this latest change. Apart from the comments on the great food and service, the guests are particularly enjoying the garden and water views during their alfresco dining.
    • The Breakfast service will commence each day from 6am and conclude at 10am. The menu items have been refreshed and include: - Continental breakfast items: yoghurt, fresh seasonal fruit, selection of breads for toasting and fresh baked pastries, spreads, fresh seasonal fruit and salad; - Hot breakfast dishes: scrambled and fried eggs, bacon, hash browns, tomatoes - Fresh juice selections - Freshly brewed tea and coffee

    Paradise Resort

    • Paradise Resort Gold Coast has been rated “Best 4 star Family resort in Australia” - a fantastic recognition for the family friendly resort.
    • By September they will also open the biggest Aqua Play Water Park in the Southern hemisphere, add 16 brand new kids themed King Bunkhouses, and completely refurbish the restaurants and bars
    • More kid friendly plans are expected to be announced shortly, with new owners Zagame’s Corporation keen to further enhance the family holiday experiences that have made the resort so successful.
    • Paradise Resort Gold Coast is located close to beaches, attractions, and the heart of Surfers Paradise. With a firm ‘kids first’ philosophy, it has become renowned as a heaven for kids and paradise for parents!

    Sea Temple Surfers Paradise - a New Mirvac Hotel

    • Mirvac is pleased to announce the newest addition totheirportfolio, located on Queensland’s iconic Gold Coast - Sea Temple Surfers Paradise.
    • Scheduled to open on 15 September 2011 and comprising of 1, 2 and 3 bedroom luxurious apartments,the 5 star Sea Temple Surfers Paradise willherald the arrival ofMirvac’s hospitality to one of Australia’s most sought after leisure destinations.
    • Our online booking site will be updated inthe following monthsas we receive rates from Mirvac.

    Diamant Hotel Brisbane - a new addition to 8 Hotels

    • 8Hotels has entered into a definitive long-term management agreement to operate the Portal Hotel Brisbane.
    • The property currently known as Portal Hotel will be re-branded Diamant Hotel Brisbane, effective from 1st August 2011.
    • The contemporary European-style boutique hotel perfectly complements the existing Diamant hotels (Sydney and Canberra) and will fill a void in the Brisbane market for outstanding quality, style and value.
    • Superbly located on the tranquil Astor Terrace, the hotel is just a short walk to Brisbane’s city centre, Queen Street Mall, the Eagle Street financial district and Fortitude Valley & New Farm entertainment areas. Elegant design, intimate ambience and modern luxury amenities create an oasis of comfort suited equally to the pleasure traveller.

    SV Whitehaven Eco Adventure Sailing

    • Tall Ship Adventures, owners of the SV Whitehaven Eco Adventure Sailing vessel, are responding to guest feedback asking for more time by offering a 3day/2night sailing adventure with the release of their new extended Eco Adventure Sailing Tour.
    • The SV Whitehaven will now depart twice a week on the following scheduled departures:

    Departs: Tuesdays and Fridays at 9.00am / Returns: Thursdays and Sundays at 3.30pm

    Victoria

    Phillip Island Nature Parks Volunteer Package

    • Phillip Island Nature Parks has teamed up with Conservation Volunteers Australia to offer an exciting 5 days / 4 nights volunteering holiday package to Phillip Island and the Great Ocean Road.
    • Participants get to experience life as a ranger at the Nature Parks, and participate in conservation volunteering activities aimed at protecting the Little Penguin and local wildlife. Included in the package is entry to the Koala Conservation Centre, Churchill Island Heritage Farm and Penguins Plus seating at the evening Penguin Parade.

    Western Australia

    Pensione Perth  - 8 Hotels

    • Aarons Hotel Group is excited to announce it has entered into a management contract with 8 Hotels to run Aarons Hotel Perth.
    • From July 2011, 8 Hotels will be managing all aspects of Aarons Hotel Perth, including a $3.5 million dollar refurbishment, and once completed, re-branding it into the affordable boutique hotel brand “Pensione”.
    • Pensione Hotel Perth is superbly located in the heart of Perth’s CBD, a stones throw from Murray St Shopping centre, and a short walk to the Swan River.
    • Pensione Perth will fill a niche in the Perth market for a quality yet affordable boutique hotel experience, catering to both business and leisure travelers.

    Specials

    Queensland

    Hayman

    • Hayman is delighted to announce that they have re-opened the resort following a five month closure due to the damage caused by the cyclones earlier this year. 
    • They will be extending the popular Hayman Opening Offer as follows:
    • Stay a minimum of 3 nights &  receive a $400.00 Resort Credit
    • Valid for sale: Now - 31 August 2011
    • Valid for travel: Now - 30 June 2012
    • Valid: All Room Types, Contract rates apply
    • No block outs apply

    Beach Club at Hamilton Island

    • § Stay 7/Pay 6
    • § Valid for travel: 16 Jan 2012 to 31 Mar 2012
    • § Available for new bookings only, and not valid in conjunction with other offers

    New South Wales

    Holiday Inn Old Sydney

    • Summer Tactical Offer
    • Valid for travel 16 December 2011 to 15 January 2012 (excl NYE 28 Dec - 02 Jan)
    • New FIT Bookings only

    Marque Sydney and Rendezvous Stafford Sydney

    • Summer Holiday Special
    • On sale until 31 October 2011
    • Valid for travel 01 December 2011 to 31 January 2012 (excluding NYE period 29 Dec 11 - 01 Jan 12)
    • Kids eat free
    • Subject to availability
    • New FIT bookings only

    South Australia

    The Sebel Playford Adelaide

    • Reduced Winter Rates
    • Valid for New FIT Bookings,  in Playford Guest Room
    • Sale Dates:       1st Jul 2011 - 16th Dec
    • Travel Dates:     1st Jul 2011 - 18th Sep 2011 and 12th Dec 2011 - 31st Jan 2012
    • Blackout Date:   31st Dec 2011
    • Terms: Rates are Room only. The offer is not combinable with any other offer and subject to availability.

    Adventure Tours Australia

    • The wildlife doesn’t know it’s winter - so encourage your clients to visit Kangaroo Island before the end of August 2011 and save $50 per person! 
    • Valid for the following tours: 2 Day Kangaroo Island Adventure (KI2FR/KI2FF); 5 day KI & Adelaide to Melbourne (KIAM), 6 day Melbourne to Adelaide & KI (MAKI)
    • Please quote “KI WINTER 2011″
    • Valid for travel before 31st August 2011

    Northern Territory

    Heavitree Gap Outback Lodge

    • The Lodge is offering a reduced rate in their Lodge Room for travel dates 1st Dec 2011 to 28th Feb 2012
    • The offer is not valid for any existing bookings or in conjunction with any bonus offers

    Victoria

    Crowne Plaza Melbourne

    • Summer Tactical Offer
    • Reduced rates 11 December 2011 to 13 January 2012 (excluding NYE 28 Dec - 01 Jan)
    • Valid for New FIT Bookings only

    Holiday Inn Flinders

    • Summer Tactical Offer
    • Reduced rates 11 December 2011 to 13 January 2012 (excluding NYE 28 Dec - 01 Jan)
    • Valid for New FIT Bookings only

    Western Australia

    Lakeside Resort Kununurra

    • Extended Low Season
    • Low Season rates will apply from 23 August to March 2012

    Changes & Refurbishment

    Australia Wide

    Intrepid Connections Safaris

    • Australian Pacific Touring (APT) has announced the recent sale of the Intrepid Connections Safaris to the PEAK Adventure Travel Group
    • All programs and rates will remain the same until the end of the contract year.

    Great Southern Railways - The Ghan

    • Economy rail travel across Australia has just been enhanced with newly refurbished diners aboard The Ghan named ‘Matilda Café’.
    • The new Matilda Café complements the ‘Red Gum Lounge’ launched last year and the recently refitted seating carriages. The new ‘Matilda Café’ features comfortable booth seating for guests to enjoy delicious freshly prepared snacks and meals, freshly ground coffee and a range of Australian wines and beers.
    • The new ‘Red Gum Lounge’ provides the perfect place to enjoy the panoramic window views, socialise with new friends, or spend a leisurely afternoon with a good book.
    • The newly refurbished Red Service Day/Nighter seats offer comfortable reclining chairs that provide more leg room than planes or coaches and are now adapted for accessable access. The two-abreast chairs are comfortable and rotatable, allowing the ability to better socialise and interact with fellow travellers.

    New South Wales

    Jordons Seafood Restaurant

    • The iconic restaurant closed its doors on 12 July after 23 years at its Darling Harbour location. Jordons first opened its doors in 1988 when Queen Elizabeth opened the Darling Harbour Festival Markets building, as it was then known, as part of the bi-centenary celebrations.
    • The closure is due to a lease agreement. They are actively seeking to reopen and possibly relocate in the near future to new premises

    Sydney Airport

    • Effective 5 July, the Sydney Airport has introduced higher parking fees for vehicles entering the pick-up zones. As the fees are really high, many operators cannot absorb the increased, and has changed their operational details to only send their drivers through to the pick-up zone 40 minutes after landing (International) and 10 minutes after landing (Domestic)
    • Clients who arrive through customs and immigration early and cannot find their transfer driver are advised to call the transfer company (phone numbers provided by APTC on documentation and confirmations)

    The Sebel Surry Hills Sydney

    • Power Outage on Sunday 28th Aug 2011 (11.30am - 4.30pm):
    • Energy Australia intends to carry out essential maintenance work at themajor power substation that powers the area that includes The Sebel Surry Hills Sydney. Over the 5-hour period 11:30am - 4:30pm on the 28th August 2011, there will be no power in the hotel, apart from the required Emergency Generators with only emergency lighting operational.
    • Although guests will be able to access their rooms, it isrecommended to arrive at the hotel outside of these times. The hotel apologises for any inconvenience in advance, but hopes this prior notice will allow guests to organisetheir travel arrangements accordingly.

    Taronga Zoo Sydney

    • The Sky Safari (cable car) at Taronga Zoo will be under maintenance and system upgrading between 2 and 22 August 2011 and therefore will not be operational during these days.
    • During the maintenance period, visitors arriving to the Taronga Zoo Ferry Wharf; the lower Taronga Zoo entrance is available and is less than 100m walk from the ferry wharf.
    • This entrance provides direct access to the zoo grounds beside the Great Southern Oceans exhibit. For a downloadable zoo map, please visit: http://www.taronga.org.au/sites/default/files/web-map-ed1.pdf 

    Northern Territory

    Tailormade Tours

    • Tailormade Tours has informed us that they are no longer operating the Elite 4WD Palm Valley Tour effective immediately.

    Queensland  

    Hideaway Resorts (operator of Dunk and Bedarra Island)

    • The two resorts has announced they will not be reopened on 1 April 2012 as originally planned.
    • The extent of the damage from Cyclone Yasi in February 2011 and subsequent inclement weather has made it unfeasible for the current owners to attempt a complete refurbishment of the resorts on their own.
    • “Dunk and Bedarra Island resorts have been part of the fabric of Australian and Queensland tourism for many years and this decision has not been taken lightly,” the CEO of Hideaway Resorts Mark Campbell said.
    • With the resorts not reopening in the foreseeable future any reservations held for the resorts at Dunk and Bedarra islands from 1 April 2012 will be cancelled.
    • As they don’t envisage reopening in the foreseeable future, please ensure that any collateral (both written and online) reflects the fact that the resorts at Dunk and Bedarra Islands are closed until further notice.

    Down Under by Appointment  

    • From 1st August 2011, Down Under Tours will no longer be offering the ‘Down Under by appointment’ range of products for either Charter or FIT.
    • Due to the very high operating cost and the low patronage, this product range was financially unviable for Down Under Tours
    • Their 6 & 9 seat vehicles will be sold, and the Down Under by appointment charter rates will be removed in their entirety.

    Sheraton Mirage Resort & Spa Gold Coast

    • The resort has announced an extensive refurbishment plan, to keep up with Sheraton’s Global Revitalisation effort.
    • The refurbishment will include 293 rooms and suites, accommodation corridors, Lobby, Reception Desk, Guest Lifts, Port Cochere, hotel entry and pool area landscaping, Terraces Restaurant and Breakers Lounge.
    • Due for completion early - 2012, the refurbishment plans include a dramatic renewal of all guest rooms and suites. Boasting spacious hotel rooms starting from 43sqm, the new luxurious appointments include the Sheraton Sweet Sleeper bed, flat screen televisions, wifi access, custom woven carpets, designer furnishings, casual lounge and dining settings, bedside decor and accessories plus bathroom fittings including tap ware, baths, toilets, vanity and refreshed marble surfaces. In room technology enhancements will incorporate environmental benefits and include new LED lighting, intuitive air-conditioning, high speed data and wireless communication and a complete digital entertainment package featuring the latest Movielink system. These works will epitomise a certain beachside luxury that Sheraton Mirage Resort & Spa is renowned for.
    • All refreshment works will be carried out with the greatest care to ensure that guests are not disrupted and the timeline for the project will flex to meet occupancy demands and ensure that the resort remains fully operational.

    Air Whitsundays

    • After the much-anticipated re-opening of Hayman on 1 August 2011 it was announced that after Air Whitsundays will no longer be providing the Hayman Island Day Trip as part of their product portfolio.
    • It was determined that day visit access should be discontinued for all operators in order for Hayman to retain a high level of exclusivity and uphold a commitment to personalised and dedicated service for all in-house guests.

    Western Australia  

    Mercure Perth

    • The Spa and Sauna will not available between 01 to 22 September 2011 due to refurbishment of the Spa area.
    • Mercure Guests may use the Novotel’s spa during this period. 

    Australian Pinnacle Tours // Amended Days of Departures

    • 1 Day 4WD Cape Leveque & Aboriginal Community (CL) Tour
      Tour operates April - November,  Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu & Fri
      Departs: Broome hotels at 7.00am
      Returns: Broome hotels at approx 6.30pm
    • 1 Day Geikie Gorge Experience incl Aboriginal Cruise (GG)
      Tour operates April - November
      Wed, Fri & Sun
      Departs: Broome hotels at 7.00am
      Returns: Broome hotels at approx 10.00pm
    • 1 Day 4WD Windjana Gorge & Tunnel Creek Adventure (WT)
      Operates Tue, Thu, Sat from May to Oct
      Departs from Broome hotels at 7.00am
      Returns to Broome hotels at approx. 10.00pm
    • New Departure Point for Perth day tours as of 01 August.

    The new departure point is: Shop 1,  Old Perth Port at   Barrack Square, Perth

    They will continue to provide hotel/hostel pickups as per normal. The previous departure point (corner of Hay & Pier Streets in Perth) will be a pickup point for tours, however passengers not requiring a hotel pick up should make their way to the new Barrack Square address.