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The Weekender: Crescent Head

The article is written by Maddison Reynolds

The New South Wales coastline is full of beautiful, hidden-gems often disregarded by the typical traveller. While many opt to undertake the famous east coast road-trip during their time here, much of the coast can be explored on weekend trips from Sydney.

This June long weekend, I grabbed a bunch of mates and headed north to the small, coastal town of Crescent Head. My boyfriend, an avid surfer, had visited here many times before and had raved to me about the beautiful beaches, spectacular surf and piquant pies from the local bakery. Packing in Sydney on Thursday night, the weather report looked grim, so I prepared my study notes in the event that this would be a fairly average weekend spent indoors. To my surprise, Crescent Head had plenty to deliver (even unseasonable sunshine).

The Drive

Crescent Head is located 440km north of Sydney. The best way to get there is, of course, by car.

The drive can take anywhere between 5 and 6 ½ hours, depending on Sydney’s (very unpredictable) traffic. Be wary of peak travel times and try and avoid travelling during school holidays and long-weekend periods.

If you’ve ever travelled up the east coast before, you’d know that there are plenty of places to veer off the highway, grab a bite to eat (Heatherbrae pies are my personal favourite) and stretch your legs.

Once you reach the Kempsey turn-off, pass the Crescent Head signs and follow the road into the main street of Kempsey. Be sure to take advantage of the shops here and grab all the food and drinks you’ll need for your stay. Crescent Head only has one convenience store so this is your last option to grab that 1kg tub of hummus you’ll no doubt be needing after a day of long-boarding.

Accommodation

The Crescent Head Holiday Park is located right on Crescent’s famous main beach, home to one of the best right-hand breaks in the world. The park offers cabins as well as camping options and is situated in the middle of town. It is a convenient walk to cafes, shops and restaurants.

Alternatively, Crescent Head is home to plenty of rental properties, depending on the size of your group. We chose a property just out of the main town centre that housed a group of 6. The property was secluded and private, making it perfect for impromptu dance parties in the early hours and quiet bonfire sessions.

For those feeling a little more adventurous, beach camping is available in the Goolawah National Park. Visit the Visit NSW website for more details.

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Things to Do

If you’re going to Crescent Head, chances are you’re already a keen surfer or you’re at least keen to give it a try. Crescent Head is world-renowned as one of Australia’s best breaks and is perfect for beginners and those more experienced. It is also the perfect place for longboarding and stand-up paddle boarding if these are your chosen crafts. The best thing of all about Crescent Head is that even in the early weeks of winter, the water is still warm enough to surf in without a full wetsuit. There really is an almost endless summer on the mid-north coast.

Crescent Head is also home to beautiful national park land. If you’re in a 4WD, head into Hat Head National Park, Goolowah National Park and Lime Burners National Park. There are ample amounts of secluded beaches and picture-perfect lookout points to be discovered. The best advice in this region is to head out and explore. Pack an esky full of snacks and beers, grab your surfboard and get out there!

Some of the roads in this region are unsealed so be sure to check the Visit NSW site before heading out.

Places to Eat

Crescent Head is a small town so there are a limited amount of options when it comes to dining.

Barnett’s Bakery is famous for its pies and pastries. Expect to see queues of locals lined out the door if you visit between morning and late afternoon rush. Australian’s know good pies, so a pie shop as busy as Barnett’s is generally worth your wait.

If you’re after a coffee or café brunch, head to Blackfish Café or Green Room Café. Blackfish Café is also home to one of the friendliest cattle dogs I’ve ever met and there’s plenty of time for canine cuddles while you’re waiting for your coffee.

The Crescent Head Country Club is a great option for a pub-feed and beers after a long day of exploring. In peak periods the Country Club fills up quickly so be sure to arrive early to grab a table.

Despite my original misgivings, Crescent Head turned out to be the perfect place for a relaxing weekend away from the hustle and bustle of the city. This quiet, and secluded town had so much to offer for those willing to look for it. And even though I left covered in surfing bruises, Crescent Head was truly the perfect place to get salty, have a laugh and recharge with friends.

GOLD COAST BUCKET LIST: A LOCAL STUDENT PERSPECTIVE

The article is written by Jane Churchill

DO/VISIT

Take a stroll at Springbrook Natural Bridge: Springbrook is nestled in the Hinterland and home to some of the states most spectacular bush walks and scenery. For a unique experience, head out at night and you can check out the glow worms.
Swim at Tallebudgera or Currumbin Alley: If you’re not a huge fan of swimming in the surf or if you are just after a more relaxing experience, Tallebudgera Creek and Currumbin Alley are patrolled swim areas with picturesque aqua water and no waves!
Have a Sunset Picnic at Burleigh Headland: Every single weekend Burleigh Hill is packed with young people having a drink and nibbles with friends whilst the sun sets over the city. It is the perfect spot to capture the most incredible Gold Coast view.
Check out local artists, creatives, boutiques, foodies, small businesses and designers at The Village Markets at Burleigh: Held on the first and third Sunday of every month at Burleigh Heads State School between 8:30AM and 2PM.
Buy Fresh Produce at the weekly Miami Organic Farmers Market: Held every Sunday at Miami State High School from 6AM to 12PM.
Have a drink at Melbas on the Park: A popular student bar & nightclub located in Surfers Paradise.
Swim at Curtis Falls on Tamborine Mountain: Being only a 30-minute drive from the city, swimming in a waterfall is ultimate city escape.
Relax at Currumbin Valley Rock Pools: Natural swimming pools with rope swings, picnic tables and toilet facilities. However be wary about going during school holidays!
Elsewhere Nightclub: An alternative dance club with a focus on European deep house DJs. Free Entry on Sundays before 11PM.
Catch a gig at Mo’s Desert Clubhouse in Burleigh: One of the few, but great, music venues on the Gold Coast.

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EAT

Niche & Co or BlendLove: Voted the best Acai bowls on the coast.
Justin Lane: Italian Pizzeria and Rooftop Bar in Burleigh Heads, with a view of the ocean.
Paddock Bakery: A local breakfast hotspot that bakes their own bread on site.
The Night Quarter: A weekly street food market (and live music venue) at Helensvale, opposite the tram/train station. Open every Friday night.
The Collective Palm Beach: A more upscale but unique Dinner Destination (Reservations Essential).
BSKT Cafe: Have a healthy brunch and then attend a Yoga Class upstairs.
The Yard Cafe: Local Cuisine & Live Music in Nobby Beach.
Randy Wallhole: Hipster cafe in close proximity to Griffith University.
The Burleigh Social: Famous for its Smashed Avocado.
Mandala: Vegan Restaurant and Bar with live music every Thursday. And on Tuesday, it’s unlimited Pizza night!

Best Hikes and Walking trails surrounding Brisbane

The article is written by Kelsa McIntyre

A fun way to stay active and explore new places is to check out the walking trails and hikes. This time of year is perfect to get out into the bush as its still blue skies with no humidity so being in the sun isn’t unbearable. With mountains and bushland surrounding Brisbane, there are plenty of opportunities for you to get up high and see the city and ocean from afar or get up close and personal with the native vegetation. Let’s start off with the easier walking trails and work ourselves up to the big mountains.

Mt Coot-tha
Mt Coot-tha is also known as the Brisbane Lookout is a short 15-minute drive from the city and is a great trail for anyone who’s just starting out. The lookout offers great views of Brisbane City and Moreton Bay. If you don’t have a car, there are public transport options such as Uber or catching a bus from Brisbane City directly to the bottom of the lookout. The walk to the summit takes approximately 30 minutes from JC Slaughter falls picnic area and if that’s not challenging enough there are plenty of other circuits that’ll get your heart rate up.

Araucaria Track
This track is a fairly easy bush walk just 25 minutes from the CBD. Expect to see many varieties of birds while also watching your step, as there are a number of signs stating that brown snakes are in the area #welcometoaustralia. This track takes up to 90 minutes and is also accessible via public buses or Ubers.

Boondall Wetlands Bikeway
This one is a serene walk as there are boardwalks and bitumen paths that make it easier to navigate. Whether you’re after a short stroll or a more challenging walk, the wetlands have it all. Walk or ride the 13km bikeway in 3 and a half hours or choose one of the shorter paths, either way, you’re bound to see endless amounts of mangroves and open forest in Brisbane’s largest wetlands area.

Mermaid Mountain
If you’re after something a bit more challenging Mermaid Mountain is the perfect trek. Starting from the town of Mt Crosby this 18km hike will take about 5 hours so best to have the whole day free for this epic trek. Bring along your camera as you’re in for some great snaps with a view of rolling hills and Lake Manchester.

Mt Tibrogargan
If you’re up for an even bigger challenge Mt Tibrogargan is the one for you. This mountain is no walk in the park; beginning at the base of the cliff this climb is more like a scramble than a hike. Once you are half way, it is best to decide if you wish to continue or not as past that point it is basically a 90-degree climb where you have to use hand and foot holds to pull yourself up. Once you are at the top, however, there is a great sense of accomplishment as you are at the 364-metre summit! I would only recommend this climb to people who are somewhat experienced and have a moderate fitness level. It’s also best to do this in pairs or in a group, as you are able to help and encourage each other. This climb and descent take up to 4 hours. I would also recommend wearing long pants that you don’t care about as you are sliding on your bottom for most of the way down so expect some rips and scratches.

Mt Beerwah
Tallest of the Glass House Mountains, Mt Beerwah is slightly harder than Tibrogargan. From the get-go it is a near 90-degree ascent, however, once you are past this point the climb begins to become easier. The spectacular 360-degree view of the other Glass House Mountains once at the top makes up for the 3 challenging hours it takes to complete. Again, this climbs not for the faint-hearted and is demanding not only physically but mentally but if you think you’re up for it why not give it a go this weekend and let us know how it went! @studyanywhere

8 Australian Customs You Might Find Strange

The article is written by Jane Churchill

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Macca’s Run
This is perhaps the most famous tradition among young Australians. A ‘Macca’s Run’ is a late night ritual where a group of friends head to the nearest McDonalds drive thru (Macca’s). The tradition is so popular that Buzzfeed wrote an article about the 24 Different Ways to Do a Maccas Run.

Bunnings Sausage Sizzle
Every Australian has become obsessed with the Bunnings Sausage Sizzle. Bunnings Warehouse is Australia’s most popular Hardware & Garden store and every weekend, all year round, a different local charity, club or organisation runs a sausage sizzle (a BBQ). In reality, it’s just a tent where they serve a sausage with a piece of white bread, grilled onions, tomato sauce and a can of soft drink (soda).

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Schoolies
Schoolies is an annual event held on the Gold Coast that attracts year 12 graduates from across the country. It occurs the following week after high school graduation and is basically 7 days of celebrating, drinking and partying with no adult supervision. Many hotels close to the general public during this week to cater for the thousands of ‘schoolies’ in town.

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Drinking Wine in a Bag, also known as, Goon
Goon is the slang term given to wine that comes in a shiny silver plastic bag, commonly known as a ‘Goon Sack.’ It is most popular among teenagers and university students due to its high alcohol percentage and low price. You can drink it straight from the bag and when it’s empty people will blow it up and use it as a pillow. True Story!

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Wearing Thongs Everywhere
Thongs, known to non-Australians as ‘flip-flops,’ are a vital piece of the Australian wardrobe. Australians will wear thongs to a café, to the shopping centre or even to a party. There is a thong hierarchy here, with Havaianas being on the top. A pair of Havaianas can cost between $30.00 and $45.00.

Using Chicken salt instead of Regular Salt
Don’t be surprised if you are asked “Would you like regular salt or chicken salt” by a cashier when ordering hot chips. Chicken Salt was originally created for the purpose of seasoning chicken, however, now it is a staple food seasoning at any takeaway restaurant. It contains regular salt and a mixture of different spices and is bright yellow in colour.

Calling Ketchup ‘Tomato Sauce’
To the rest of the world, that sweet tomato flavoured condiment is known as Ketchup. But nope, not in Australia. Here, it is simply, “Tomato Sauce.” Ah, but what do you call the sauce that goes with pasta then? Pasta Sauce. Simple.

Adding Beetroot to Burgers
On the topic of food, don’t be surprised if you order a burger and it comes with a large slice of beetroot on it. Many Australians would not consider this to be bizarre, but apparently, the rest of the world does!

Study Hack 2018

The article is written by Ebbony Lawman

Through university, I got a lot of advice from my teachers and fellow students on the best ways to study. Such as staying up all night reading chapter after chapter or putting your textbook under your pillow to absorb the information.

Eventually, I found a study hack that worked for me, sadly I didn’t learn this until my last subject of my degree. Fortunately, for you, I did the research to back up this hack and collected some science-backed study to prove it.

In this podcast, I discuss how this study hack could be a primary form of communication at university and how, like myself, also can be a form of procrastination, much the opposite to study itself.

So, what is this hack? Glad you asked…. It’s social media!

I’ve never really thought about social media as a way of sharing information at university, as I’ve always related social media with sharing my personal information with friends and family. I certainly didn’t think about using it for study.

Looking back at my time at university and the previous units I’ve enrolled in, that didn’t have this form of learning integrated into them. I’ve realised that I used good old social media, in a different way, it was my escape route, to browse endless entertainment and the latest news. It would sadly decrease my engagement level and self-belief to the bare minimum, it was a constant battle with myself to stay motived.

Until this unit Making Social Media, I felt completely engaged throughout the entire unit, my grades increased by 20%. So, when I was researching for expert opinions I made sure to find people who would back up this theory such as Junco, Heiberger, Loken and Vern Freedlander to find out what the secret weapon is, listen to the podcast above.

If I knew what I know now five years ago, it probably would have made the world of difference. But that’s why I am writing this, to give you the tools you need to succeed and stay engaged throughout your degree.

Just follow these simple steps;

Create a Twitter account
Encourage your teachers, friends and classmates to do the same
Create a unique hashtag for your unit
Start sharing information!

That’s it! That’s all you need, its 100% true that if you don’t get out of your comfort zone you will never know what you’re capable of.

So, what are you waiting for, get excited! Download Twitter today and do everything that you’ve always wanted to do. Show the world what you’re made of and that social media is the way of the future. Because, after completing this unit, I truly believe integrating social media in university is the future of learning and our generation can lead the way for the next gen.

If you need some inspiration to get you started, check out the following hashtags on Twitter; #ALM101 #ALCAlumni #ComeJoinUs #IMadeSomeMedia and #Learningbydoing.

You can list to the podcast here.

Top 5 tips to look prevent yourself getting sick this winter

This article is written by Sachithri Kodagoda

We’ve said goodbye to our wonderful warm autumn and unfortunately welcomed Sydney’s version of winter. While the idea of snuggling up in bed with some soothing scented candles, lots of soft warm blanket and good old Netflix show are quite romantic, the reality of the sunless, rainy days is quite bleak, especially if you get a nasty cold. And let’s be honest, if you get sick during the start of winter do you ever really get better? Here are 5 tips to look after yourself to prevent yourself from falling sick this winter.

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Stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet

It is so tempting to indulge yourself in bowls carbs and cheese night after night with a nice cup of hot chocolate to lift your spirits during this dreary season, but your body and immune system will thank you if you stick to the vegetables, protein and fruit during the cold months. Salad truly sounds like a nightmare even more so in winter so why not try a bowl of delicious vegetable soup and some Asian inspired greens recipes. Also, it’s easy to forget to drink water when it gets colder so remember to keep track of your hydration, as hydration helps ease muscle soreness, back stiffness and overall keeps everything running smoothly.

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Keep moving

Ever heard the say “Summer bodies are made in the winter”. Well while this little platitude may or may not be true moving around during winter is extremely beneficial to your physical health and your mental health. If the thought of gym or going for a run makes you want to just snuggle under your covers a little more why not join a dance class, or join your local sports team. That way you’ll be moving around, learning a new skill and be meeting new people, all of which will motivate you to keep moving this winter. A side benefit, of course, is that you could have a rocking fit healthy body for the summer time.

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Practice good hygiene

Having good hygienic habits is always important, but is particularly important during winter to stop yourself from getting those nasty germs. Wash your hands regularly, cover your mouth when coughing, keep your hands off your face and most importantly stay far, far away from sick people.

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Rest

Yes, finally a tip that includes your comfy warm bed! Try and get at least 7 hours of sleep a night, as a lack of sleep can lead to a weaker immune system and make your body more prone to getting those foul little viruses floating around the air.

Get the flu vaccine

Get the flu vaccine! It is adjusted every year to match the flu viruses going around every new year and is the best weapon in your arsenal against getting sick. You can get from most pharmacies, chemists and of course your local GP.

Hope this information is valuable to all you lovely people and stay warm and healthy this winter!

Australian TV Shows explained

The article is written by Rachel Ganczarczyk

Understanding Australian culture and lifestyle are difficult for any foreigner, especially upon the first arrival. So it’s always a good idea to immerse yourself in the Australian culture, lifestyle activities and traditions in society. One way you can do this is by watching popular Australian TV shows, where you can understand more about the way of life in Australia as well as maybe even end up discovering a new favourite TV show! Below is a list of some of Australia’s most popular TV shows, so be sure to check them out.

MasterChef Australia – Channel 10

If you’re a foodie or love to be creative in the kitchen, then be sure to watch MasterChef Australia for some unique blends of flavour, thrilling team challenges and spectacular dishes that look more like artwork than food! Watch how everyday Australians cook up a storm in the kitchen and take the ultimate test to be crowned Australia’s MasterChef.

Home & Away – Channel 7

If you’re one for drama and deep storylines, then Home & Away may be the perfect show to tune into and follow. It’s Australia’s most popular soap-opera that’s known for its setting in fictional beach town Summer Bay. Watch and follow the lives of residents and the drama that unfolds in each of their unique storylines.

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House Rules – Channel 7

Are you hands-on, practical, passionate about interior design or have a creative flair? Watch how six teams of everyday Australians taken on the incredible challenge of renovating each other’s homes to outstand the judges, score points and win the ultimate prize. Judge for yourself each house reveal and see what if your favourite team can make it to the top of the leaderboard.

The Project – Channel 10

If talking about current affairs, politics and relevant social issues interest you, then tune into The Project. It’s a panel-discussion show that delivers news differently, with celebrity guest appearances and comedic segments and punchlines to keep you amused throughout the program. Watch how debating interviews, controversial opinions and current social issues are put to the stage and delivered to the everyday Australian in a way that is unique and engaging.

The Voice Australia – Channel 9

Good tunes and blasting hits are what you’ll be in for if you tune into The Voice Australia. See how everyday Australians take on the incredible challenge of singing their way to the top to become Australia’s The Voice winner. See how judges coach them, critique them and motivate them to become professional performers, world-class rockstars and talented artists who want nothing more but than to sing their hearts out.

For more details, episode recaps and some behind-the-scenes footage, be sure to check out the website for each program.

Gotta love Melbourne in June

The article is written by Paola Bianchi Cover photo by chiaralily

Let’s face it. June in Melbourne equals sunny but cold days. The winter has been waving us for a while but now is officially here.

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Is this an excuse to get lazy and see Netflix every day? No way! (although it sounds a good idea)

Here are 3 awesome excuses to get OUT of home and IN some great venues)

WINTER NIGHT MARKET

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During 13 weeks the renowned Queen Victoria Market is open during the night but with a gourmet approach. Raw fruits and vegetables are replaced by more than 30 global street food stalls.
It’s a great opportunity to taste food from all over the world. Singaporean, Japanese, Peruvian, Spanish, you name it.
There are also live music and product stalls for gifts.

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Every Wednesday of June, July and August. From 5 pm to 10 pm. It’s free!

WINTER WINE FEST

Each year during the Queen’s birthday weekend, Mornington Peninsula showcase its best local wineries and cheese makers!

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This event requires a ticket, but it is so worth it! Wine, food and music. Who is with me?
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All right, enough of eating delicious food and awesome wine and let’s focus on our inner self for a weekend, shall we?

Next event its by far the most original one:

MIND BODY FESTIVAL

The Mind-Body Festival is Australia’s largest well-being and natural therapies event held in Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane every year.

7 entrance mind festival Image by Paola Bianchi
There are more than 200 stalls, short workshops and seminars, guided meditations, live performances and plenty of great products (books, crystals, tea blends) and body services (massages, iris health check, aura photographs) on offer and so many more that you have to see it believe it!

8 Pic room mind festival Image by Paola Bianchi
Without a doubt, the centrepiece of the event is the physic reading room. Well-known physics will use their abilities to give you an honest reading base on their tools, like tarot, hand reading, clairvoyance, mediumship and much more.

9 Pic reading room Image by Paola Bianchi

Head to Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Center, near the Casino, to pamper yourself with magic.
Tickets are free! Make sure you swipe them in those stalls that are giving away great prices!

How to Stay Healthy During Exam Time

The article is written by Nina Sudnitsin

Exam season has descended upon us university students in Australia and undoubtedly, we’re all feeling anxious.

It’s imperative for your exam success and overall wellbeing to stay mentally and physically healthy during this stressful period. Healthy habits tend to be neglected during intense revision sessions which can result in headaches, soreness and lack of motivation. Instead of hindering your potential success, boost your productivity and wellbeing through conscientiously staying on top of your health game.

Yes, its stressful and you’ll be cramming as much revision as you possibly can 24 hours before your exam, but trust me (and speaking from painfully recent experience), your sleep and nutrient-deprived brain will not be your friend during a torturous two-hour exam of reading and writing. To keep your vision and mental abilities at their peak functionalities take a look at these tips to help you survive exam week and come out the other end relieved and healthy.

planning

Plan your study sessions

Planning what to do during revision sessions is imperative to stay on top of your study. Prioritising your tasks, such as what lectures to review, which questions to practice and what summaries and outlines to do will instantly clear your head and reduce your inevitably high-stress levels.

That being said, everyone functions differently. You actually might prefer unplanned study where you revise anything you can, especially if you’re running out of time, but keep in mind that to-do lists, schedules, checklists and calendars all work wonders for effective study and ensure that you utilise your precious time efficiently.

Extra tip: to clear your head and further discipline yourself, turn off your Wi-Fi and shut down your phone. There are myriad distractions that detrimentally contribute to your valuable focus, so make sure to remove any liabilities.

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Take time for yourself

If you feel your motivation dwindling, it may be because you’ve been sitting at your desk for 5 hours straight and words just aren’t sinking into your content-saturated brain. This is the time to take a break and do something you enjoy, whether it be reading a favourite book, playing some music or painting.

Taking time for yourself is alright. There is no use mindlessly notetaking and reading content if you aren’t meaningfully processing and understanding it. During the assessment period, it’s very normal to feel stressed and constantly thinking of revising, but burning yourself out is not the way to a great GPA! So, don’t neglect your mental health and take a break.

sleep

Sleep

Yes, I bet you’ve heard this advice many more times than you can count, but sleep is important. Aiming to get at least 7-8 hours each night is ambitious for exam periods, but it’s imperative if you’ve got an 8am exam the next day. Beds are comfy, so call it an early night before that important exam.

hydrate

Stay hydrated and nourished

Keep your body functioning during stressful exams with nourishing foods and plenty of water. During study sessions, have a water bottle close by. You’ll find yourself inadvertently sipping on it throughout. Not keen on plain, boring water? Spice it up by adding fruit infusions such as lemon, berries and even cucumber, because it’s definitely better than energy drinks for your health.

Another tip is to consciously snack on healthy food such as fruits and nuts to keep you going without feeling guilty (with an occasional chocolate treat)!

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Don’t forget to move

Of course, sitting, head down and studying at your desk all day is beneficial towards exam prep, but it’s the opposite of your health! Towards the end of your day, your slouching posture is sure to leave you extremely tired and sore. To keep your blood flowing and metabolism working, don’t skip that gym workout. Get up and walk around, walk around the block if you must and then settle back down for some more study. You’ll be thanking that walk, later on, I promise.

The Best Free Things to do in Brisbane

The article is written by Nina Sudnitsin

If you’re running low on cash or you’re in need of a cultural intervention when in Brisbane, there are a multitude of activities to fulfil your sightseeing needs that keep your wallet decently full.

Brisbane is a culturally diverse city and home to beautiful nature which offers many free events and experiences that will suit people from any corner of the earth. So, if you’re craving an adventure, longing to take a break from your impending exam revision or you’re just feeling the mid-week blues, try out one of these free activities that fall under the categories of culture, music, fitness and nature.

CULTURE

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Take a city hall tour

What better way to explore a new city than exploring its landmark building? The Brisbane City Hall exudes 1920s art deco vibes and is a heritage listed building which schedules daily tours from 10:30am to 2:30pm. If you want a guaranteed spot, be sure to book online (it’s free!)

library

Pick up a book at the State library

The State Library of Queensland (SLQ) is a unique library, thanks to its extraordinary architecture and its split five-level design. The SLQ is a custodian for Queensland’s history, so be sure to check out the wonderful small odes to our history as a state around the library. When you’re done exploring, pick a book, settle down in a comfy chair by the large glass windows and enjoy a quiet afternoon.

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Stroll through QAGOMA

Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art located in South Bank (next door to SLQ) are more than worth a day of exploring. Each season brings about new exhibits, so strap on your walking shoes, put on your thinking hat and get ready for a day of art critiquing.

Have a laugh at Knockoff

Every Friday evening, the Powerhouse, located in New Farm, plays host to a free comedy show. Local as well as national artists take the stage to deliver hilarious rants and epic one-liners. The evening takes place in an iconic Brisbane venue and this event is a great way to meet new people and have a good laugh.

MUSIC

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Sunday Sessions on the Green

There’s no better way to spend a Sunday evening than listening to great live music along the river. Every Sunday evening, a local music act plays enchanting tunes and funky grooves for the public. Enjoy the last bit of the weekend evening along River Quay in South Bank with a picnic blanket and some snacks to share with good company.

The Sound Society

The Sound Society is another live music program which is held in two locations –South Bank (from 2-7pm) and Roma Street parklands (9am-12pm) – on the first weekend of each month. With the backdrop of trees and palms, the chill atmosphere is a lovely way to spend your weekend catching up with friends or relaxing in the sun.

FITNESS

Take a free fitness class in South Bank

Every few months, South Bank parklands hosts free fitness classes. You heard right: no need to sign up for a gym membership! Whether you’re an early bird or night owl, there’s a class to suit any need. Yoga, Pilates and Tai Chi are only a few of the multiple offerings. Bookings are not required and it’s an activity suitable for all ages and fitness levels.

hiking

Hike up Mt Coo-tha

Located 15 minutes west of the CBD, taking a hike to the summit of Mt Coo-tha is a rewarding experience. There are over 60 different tracks to choose from and a helpful guide by the Brisbane City Council offers a great overview! Mt Coo-tha forest track map

If the options are overwhelming, why not settle on the route taken most, the Summit Circuit. It combines the Summit Track with the Mahogany Trail, and provides a complete circuit from JC Slaughter Falls to the unforgettable Mt Coo-tha Lookout.

NATURE

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Stroll through the Botanic Gardens

Speaking of Mt Coo-tha, the Botanic Gardens at Mt Coo-tha are stunning and it’s arguably the best parkland Brisbane has to offer. There are free guided walks from 11am to 1pm (excluding Sundays) or if you’d prefer to take a break from walking, there are free mini bus tours as well. Definite highlights at the Botanic Gardens include the beautiful tropical dome and the Japanese garden, so be sure to visit them.

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Visit the koalas at the Daisy Hill Koala Centre

In an outdoor setting and open every day from 10am-4pm, admission to the Koala Centre is free! Visitors can’t cuddle or pat the koalas as they’re situated in their natural habitat, but definitely bring a camera with you to snap the cute mammals as they go about their daily routine of eating and sleeping. There’s also an abundance of area for bushwalking and picnics!

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