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4 Top spots for Climbing

The article and the photos by Paola Bianchi

Climbers and belayers, beginners or advanced. These are four top places to climb in Melbourne and Victoria. Choose one place, grab your gear and go climbing!

Hardrock, central climbing spot

Located in the CBD, close to Melbourne Central, this climbing gym has become the most popular place for locals and students (make sure you show your credentials for a discount). They offer beginners classes and Lead training and the staff is super friendly. It is a relatively small space and can get crowded during peak times, but music is great and the location is super convenient. Situated in a strategic corner on a second floor, has lovely views of the city and the natural light that is coming through the enormous glass windows is an advantage. Here is where I usually bring my friends for the first climbing experience. A great place to start the journey.

You can check this gym here

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North Walls, appealing climbing gym

As soon as you walk into this indoor climbing gym, you can’t avoid appreciating the clean aesthetic atmosphere. They thought about the visual aspect of this building, and we can thank that. It’s a pleasure to climb in white walls with colourful routes and a roof that displays natural light. Inside there is a cafe that provides that often needed caffeine fix, a -in development- training section with bars, and offer several kinds of courses like movement and strength. Lots of seats to relax, great for that friend you invited to shoot the cool pics.

Climbing and coffee, you got me. Located in Brunswick, you can check this beautiful place here:

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Gravity Worx, comprehensive climbing gym

This indoor climbing gym has all you ever needed. Over 200 routes that are changed regularly, 16 auto-belay routes (in case you go alone!), a speed wall (what!?) like the one used on international competitions, a training section and experienced instructors. Courses are also available and schools are welcome. Competitions are often held with prices. This place is huge. Impossible to get bored.

Located in Pasco Vale, check this gym here.

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Mount Arapiles, magic outdoor climbing

Arguably, one of the best climbing spots in the world, this PARADISE for climbers has it all. As it was stated by Chockstone, an online website for climbers in Victoria, Mount Arapiles may be ‘the very the heart and soul of traditional climbing in Australia’.
Located in a protected park in the Wimmera region in western Victoria, this big rock formation can easily compete with the famous Grampians region because of its thousands of quality climbing routes, hiking tracks, bouldering walls, killing sunrises and a gorgeous natural setting full of wildlife. Kangaroos included!

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I know what you might be thinking, ‘that rock does not seem big at all’. Let me tell you that, with its just 370mts of high, you will feel challenged when unrolling your rope on the base.

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Everyone stays at least a long weekend. Some may stay for a whole month. The only option available is a rustic campsite that you should book in advance for a super cheap price. It’s an unpowered site with toilets.

One of the most beautiful aspects of this place is the great vibes of the climber’s community. You can go looking for good climbs, but you will return after making such good friends. The best months are from February to April, as it is not too hot nor cold, and little rain! The least you want is a wet rock that makes impossible for grabbing. Take into account that due the dry weather, there is a wood fire ban from the 1st of November until the 30th of April.

There are different levels of climbing routes to choose from. You can check them on the Arapiles book guide (shown in next pic), or check the classic routes here, or get help to start with these guys.

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7 ideas to Keep Fit on a budget

The article and cover photo by Paola Bianchi

When I arrived in Australia one of the first things that captured my attention was how well were exercise and fitness integrated into the Aussie lifestyle. People were waking up (ridiculously) early to train or spending their time off doing exercise (and having brunch afterwards obviously). I immediately felt inspired to implement a healthy routine.

Keeping your body in movement and your mind oxygenated has so many benefits for everyone, and students should not dismiss this from their lifestyle. I got to know first-hand that doing exercise, especially during exam periods, helps me focus and release tension. Not to mention the overall increased on my good mood and the opportunity to meet new friends.

As a student on a budget, getting fit does not need to be a big issue. There are many free or low-cost options to give a try and to maintain your favourites exercises in the long term.
RUNNING or WALKING

Once you have a good pair of running shoes, there are no excuses not to run regularly or walk at a good pace. You do not need fancy clothes nor expensive gadgets. Running and walking can be done almost ANYWHERE and it’s FREE!

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Photo by aquachara on Unsplash

APP WORKOUT

There are free and paid apps to help you with a fitness plan. Those exercises can be done not just at the gym but also at home or in a park as they require little equipment. Maybe you need a mat, a bench, a skipping rope or some dumbbells. Even on YouTube, you can find good classes but the app gives you a proper program, a schedule and tracks your progression.

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FITNESS TRAILS

It’s like an outdoor gym that has stations for different types of exercise. Sometimes it’s called Parcourse, often have explanation signs and is used as a complement of other activity like running. They are FREE and can be found in parks or biking/running paths.

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MEETUP ACTIVITIES

Again, technology is on our side. The Meetup app is great to find events, classes and regular meetups for diverse activities. This is a FREE app, although some meetups require a small contribution. The most popular fitness groups in Australia are for Hiking, Bushwalking, Biking, Yoga and even beach Volleyball.

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SKATING

This is also a FREE activity. Just need to practice your balance and get a nice skate. Then find a skate park and have fun! There are plenty of YouTube videos with tips and tricks. Of course, you can also skate to commute on a daily basis!

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If keen on investing on yourself without breaking your wallet, the following is for you:

INDOOR BOULDERING & INDOOR CLIMBING

This is by far one of the trendiest yet misunderstood fitness activity. It is by no means an ‘impossible mission’ just for fearless people. Climbing will challenge you in a physical and mental level, but because it’s such personal training each one can climb at their own level.

Bouldering is climbing in small rock walls without any ropes, as the maximum high is usually safe. Plus, there are lots of mattresses to fall onto. You just need a pair of climbing shoes to get started. And maybe some chalk to have a better grip in your hands.

Indoor Climbing is more well known by the general public than Bouldering because it’s Rock Climbing first offspring. The walls are pretty high so you definitely need to hang from your harness attached to the rope.

If never tried any before, I strongly suggest that you do an introductory course first. They are usually given for free in any indoor climbing gym. They also rent all the equipment you need but If you really like this sport, it’s better to get your own gear. Always get the most quality gear you can get as it can last for years. Shoes and harness are the basics to keep you climbing for a long time.

Even though it requires some investment in the beginning, later you can get monthly or yearly passes and each visit to the climbing gym will be less expensive than just paying for the day. Students usually can get discount by proving your ‘student condition’.

The benefits are countless. Because it’s required to be %100 immerse at the moment, it has some of the meditation benefits – stress reduction, improved concentration, increase self-awareness and boost your immune system. It also has some therapeutic effects and that’s why it has been recommended for depression patients! I would say it’s perfect for anyone. You can actually be fully present, overcome your fears and get so much confidence!

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It is easy to get caught up with climbing, sure I did! You can get more gear, a professional rope and even get outdoors. Rock climbing is IN-CRE-DI-BLE empowering!

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!

48 hours in: Kangaroo Island

The article is written by Taryn Feldmann

Need a getaway from city life – Kangaroo Island, located, 112 km southwest of Adelaide, is the perfect destination. It has beautiful scenery, many exciting activities and iconic Australia wildlife that other places won’t be able to offer.

Go hiking, take historic tours, enjoy coastal activities, and Australia’s iconic wildlife. With so much to do you certainly won’t be bored.

Getting there

There are two options – flight or by ferry. The flight is only 30 minutes from Adelaide, South Australia airport and the ferry is 45 minutes along. You can catch the ferry in Adelaide or Goolwa to Cape Jervis. Or check this link for useful information.

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Things to do

Australia’s wildlife

Love animals? These two tours will be perfect for you – Seal bay and Kangaroo Island hire a guide and nocturnal tours, Kingscote.

Seal Bay

This is an unforgettable must do experience. The tour will lead you into their colony on the beach. It gives you a chance to witness them in their natural habitat. Many Instagram worthy memories of the seals and selfies of you and one in the background. Click for more useful info here.

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Kangaroo Island hire a guide and nocturnal tours, Kingscote

Want a fun wild adventure? This tour is for you. It offers a four-wheel drive. There are a few options but for a better experience, the Flinders chase 4wd tour is the way to go.

It’s a tour where you’ll be able to see Kangaroo’s islands unique rock – Admiral Arch, fur seals, echidna, Koala’s, and Kangaroo’s.

This action-packed tour will leave you breathless and with many worth Instagram pictures.

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Coastal activities

Love the sea? These two tours will satisfy your adventure. They are a part of the Kangaroo Island ocean safari and they offer a 2-hour swim with dolphins/seals and coastal snorkelling.

You’ll be able to experience wild dolphins and seals up close and witness coastal sea life whilst snorkelling. This will be a once in a lifetime so be sure not to miss out.

Want to stay on the boat, the 75-minute ocean safari will perfect. Enjoy the scenery of the ancient coastline and the wildlife. Some animals you’ll be seeing: dolphins, seals, and whales if you’re lucky, as you’ll only be able to see them in season.

No matter what you fancy, these tours will leave you talking about it for days.

Historic tours

Want to learn more about Kangaroo Island’s history, this tour will be ideal – Cape Borda Lightstation Flinders Chase National Park

Learn about travelling with sails in an early era and how light keepers lived. It has a lighthouse, light keeper’s cottages, and a maritime museum.

You can personally read diary entries from early light house keepers and look around at Kangaroo island’s amazing history.

Want an even better experience, stay overnight in one of the cottages.

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Hiking

Love walking? Kangaroo Island offers a wide range of hiking trails for beginners and more experienced.

Want nice scenery and wildlife, the flinders chase national park is the location. There’s several walking trails, take a slow stroll and enjoy the iconic granite boulders, Remarkable Rocks, the Admirals Arch, beaches, wildlife and wilderness.

48 HOURS IN: ULURU

The article is written by Candice Locklee

If you’ve ever seen a photo of Australia, chances are you’ve seen Uluru before – it’s a massive red sandstone rock rising out of the desert in the heart of the Australian Outback. Believed to be over 500 million years old, the site is sacred to Indigenous communities and draws over 250,000 people from all over the world every year.

If it’s not at the top of your bucket list – it should be! Uluru is the ultimate Australian experience and a once in a lifetime chance to immerse yourself in the ancient culture and history of our Indigenous people and their land. The best part is that even after you’re done marveling at Uluru, there’s still plenty of other activities and sites to soak in while you’re there.

With so much to do and 48 hours to do it in, here’s our guide to making the most out of a memorable trip to the Red Centre.

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THE FACTS

Uluru sits in the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park and is approximately 450km from the nearest major town – Alice Springs.

The monolith stands at an incredible height of 348 meters above the ground (that’s higher than the Eiffel Tower!) and if you were to walk all around the base you would find yourself walking a circumference of around 10 km.

If Uluru is a must-see, the domes of Kata Tjuta are a close second. Also known as the Olgas, Kata Tjuta is a group of 36 large domed rocks that are located about 50km from Uluru and can be visited on the same day as both major attractions are in the same park.

The highest dome, Mount Olga, stands at an awe-inspiring 546 meters above the plain which makes it almost 200 meters taller than Uluru itself!

It can get scorching hot here in summer and reach temperatures of 47 degrees Celsius. However, the area also receives a ton of rainfall each year and temperatures can get as low as 7 degrees Celsius during winter nights.

The park is also home to a huge range of native flora and fauna. Keep an eye out for the different species – including 21 mammals, 73 reptiles, 178 birds and 4 frogs, as well as over 400 species of plants in the area that are often used as traditional medicines by the Indigenous communities.

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THINGS TO DO

ULURU AND KATA TJUTA SUNRISE AND SUNSET

Watching the sun rise and sink behind Uluru and Kata Tjuta is our number one pick of things to do in the area. Pick a spot, get your camera ready and see both the sky and the rock slowly change colours in a magical experience you won’t forget anytime soon.

There are a number of main viewing areas for watching the sunrise and sunset.

Talinguru Nyakunytjaku is considered the most popular viewing platform in the area. It offers 360-degree views of both Uluru and Kata Tjuta set against the desert with a few kilometers of walking track so you can pick a secluded spot and snap as many pics as you like without interruption.

The Kata Tjuta Dune Viewing area is another popular spot where you can have access to panoramic views of Kata Tjuta with Uluru in the background. It’s a fantastic spot if you want to capture the sun on the rocks at sunrise and the beauty of silhouettes against a red sky at sunset.

There are also bus viewing carparks available. After 4pm, the area is reserved for buses and coaches only where you are free to walk the 500m Dune Walk to a platform that offers scenic views of Uluru and the dunes of Kata Tjuta. There is also a carpark for car sunset viewing if you arrive in your own vehicle.

For a map of the area that includes sunrise and sunset viewing locations, check out the helpful link at the bottom of the post.

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WALKS

Climbing Uluru is disrespectful to the ancient Indigenous tribes who inhabit the area. However, there are plenty of walks available that will take you around the monolith and off into the stunning Australian outback.

One of the most popular is the Uluru Base Walk that will take you around the bottom of Uluru in a 10 km circular track that will take about 3 and a half hours to complete. This is the best walk to do if you’re looking to experience a range of awe-inspiring landscapes – including woodlands, grasslands, and waterholes – as well as any number of native animals and plants that inhabit the area.

It’s recommended to start in the morning at the Mala carpark, where you also have the option of joining a ranger-guided Mala walk for free where you can learn all about the Anangu culture and the history of the rock art in the area. From here, you can continue on to the Uluru Base Walk.

For those who truly want to experience the spirit of the Red Centre and the meaning of solitude, why not take on the Valley of the Winds? This is a challenging 7km walk that takes you through steep and rocky terrain with many steps, valleys, and creeks along the way. There are a number of lookouts, including Karu and Karingana, and we guarantee the jaw-dropping views at the end of it will make the effort worth it!

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TOURS

Uluru and the surrounding areas are rich in Indigenous history and cultural traditions. Taking a tour will ensure that you really get the most out of the experience by learning from a local expert of the land.

Some of our faves are –

Camel rides: What better way to experience the desert landscape than on top of a great, friendly camel? Take a camel ride into the Central Australian Desert and explore this breathtaking region just like the early pioneers did from $80. Tours run from morning to afternoon. Check this link for more info and to book a tour.

Art Tours and Workshops: Maraku is a locally owned organisation teaching and celebrating the ancient arts of the Anangu people that specialise in paintings and wooden sculptures. One of the best ways to understand Indigenous art and its history is to take a dot painting workshop. These are taught by a local Anangu artist who will guide you through creating your very own masterpiece while explaining the significance of the tradition to you. Adults are $69 and classes run twice daily. Check the link.

Free Tours: Ayers Rock Resort offers a number of free tours and workshops in the area. Sit in on a Bush Yarn and listen to an Indigenous Storyteller tell you all about the history of the land and traditional bush tucker. Take an Ecology and Museum Tour to educate yourself about the flora, fauna, and geography of the area or visit the Mani Mani Indigenous Cultural Theatre for a thrilling performance of ancient Aboriginal stories. Follow the link to book the daily activities.

THINGS TO KNOW

The closest airport is Connellan Airport, located about 10 minutes away from Ayers Rock Resort (Yulara). Flights from Sydney and Melbourne will take about 3 hours to 3 and a half hours to fly to the Red Centre. Free shuttle buses are available to take you from the airport to Yulara.

All accommodation is located in Yulara, just outside of the park boundaries. Yulara offers a range of different types of accommodation to suit your budget – from hostels and camping to hotels.

There are a number of ways to get from Ayers Rock Resort to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park but using the Uluru Hop On Hop Off shuttle service is a great option. A return transfer starts at $49 and you can choose from between a 1, 2 or 3-day pass. You can hop on and hop off as many times as you like and the bus stops at all major attractions along the way. Check the link for more info.

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HELPFUL LINK

Follow this link to download a digital version of the Uluru Visitor Guide – it’s packed full of interesting things to do and details on how to do them, maps, helpful tips, historical information and need-to-know info before you begin your trip.

You should also visit the Cultural Centre located at the base of Uluru where you can pick up a copy of the Visitor Guide, ask about sunrise and sunset times, book tours and get an introduction to the land from local experts.

If you’re an international student living in Australia and want to explore this amazing country of ours, visit website Study Anywhere for more info, tips and tricks.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT DRIVING IN AUSTRALIA

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

When making the decision to move overseas to study, you will find yourself making lots of plans and decisions. It can get hectic organizing your things and ensuring you have all that you need while studying abroad. One of these things is knowing what to expect when it comes to driving a motor vehicle in a different country other than your own. To make it easier, we’ve come up with a few handy tips that could help you out when it comes driving while living and studying here in Australia.

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Getting your International Drivers Licence

An International Driving Permit (IDP) is proof that you hold a valid drivers license in your home country. Most countries require you to have one so you can legally drive a car or ride a motorbike, it also comes in handy if you need to rent a car.

In Australia, driving regulations differ from state to state because some states require that you carry an international license along with your current license from your home country. Other states request you carry your current foreign license together with an English translation of your license.

Tip: Here you can check the state you’re living in Australia – for example, NSW, and find out which laws relate to having an overseas license in that location.

Drivers in Australia require a valid driver’s license. You can drive with a foreign (English language) license for three months. But if you are here for longer than that, you need to get a license from an Australian state.

Tip2: If your license is not in English, you’ll need to get an International Driving Permit from the Automobile Association in your home country before coming to Australia.

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Finding yourself a cheap car

While living here in Australia it can be a bit hard to get around with no car, especially if you’re wanting to head out on your own for an adventure or simply drive to the shops. Rather than catching public transport, a car might be the easier option for you – depending on your budget of course.

There are heaps of ways to find a cheap car, including online sites such as Car Sales where you’ll find new cars and used cars and prices ranging from $2000 to $30 000 and are posted regularly. Everyday people and car yards post cars on this site to be sold, so even if you don’t find something that catches your eye immediately, just keep refreshing.

Thanks to the evolution of social media, Facebook is another great way to connect and find yourself a cheap car on buy, swap and sell sites. Wherever you are living, be sure to join the available groups in your location. People are always posting their vehicles that they’re wanting to sell. You could even post that you’re looking for a cheap car to run around in – you’ll be surprised by the power of social media.

Tip: Social media like many things in life, can be a risky business so be sure to take someone with you if you plan on going to look at a car. Never go by yourself.

Tips for driving on Australian roads

Australia is a large and beautiful country and usually, it takes long distances to get between different towns especially away from the city. It is important when driving long distances to Stop Revive Survive every 2 hours.

Here in Australia we drive on the left-hand side of the road and use the metric system of distances and speeds. Speed limits are clearly sign-posted and you will find that 50km/h is the speed limit that applies in suburban areas. School zones are also something to watch out for between the hours of 8-9:30am and 2:30-4pm where 40km/h is the limit. If you succeed the speed limit you will find yourself in trouble with the law as speeding is an offense.

Australian cars are right-hand drive, with automatic and manual transmission both available.

While travelling away from the city you will see signs of Australian wildlife such as kangaroos, possums, and wombats. It is important, especially at night to keep your eyes peeled for these furry friends out on the roads. Here in Australia, we share our home with these animals too. Hitting a kangaroo can cause some serious damage not only to them but to your safety and car too. So always drive carefully!

Tip: For more tips on driving while here in Australia head to TripAdvisor.

PICKING THE PERFECT PHONE PROVIDER

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

While studying abroad you probably want to know who the best phone operator is to go with so you can keep contact with your family and friends back home as well as get the greatest deal on data, international calls, and the best mobile service. So we’ve come up with a few phone providers and tips to make your decision just that little bit easier.

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Phone Tips

While studying and living here in Australia it is best to purchase a SIM card or an Australian mobile number when you arrive here, as using your home phone number can actually be quite costly.

There are two types of mobile phone accounts you can choose from:

Pre-paid:

A pre-paid service gives you heaps of flexibility because you can control how much you spend and can stop using the service anytime. You simply top up with credit as needed which can be purchased at service stations, shops and even over the phone and online. You can purchase pre-paid SIM cards in many shops and supermarkets as well as the mobile phone providers listed below.

Contract:

If you’re going to be studying and living here in Australia for a long period of time then a contract might work out cheaper for you. There are numerous mobile phone operators such as the ones listed below which offer phone plans with a fixed price per month for a certain number of calls, texts, and data.

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Telstra

Staying in touch with loved ones and friends is the most important thing, no matter where either of you is. Telstra is Australia’s largest mobile network and they have some amazing international packs on offer allowing you to make calls as often and as long as you like.

Telstra also offers the best service even when you’re in the most rural and remote areas, they will have you covered. It’s also the best in case of an emergency.

To check out what coverage and data speeds are available in your area head online to Telstra.

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Optus

If you’re calling overseas a lot in Australia then an Optus International Minute Pack is what you need! An International Minute Pack is an easy and inexpensive way to save on calls to mobiles and fixed lines in 32 countries while you’re here in Australia.

For more information head over to Optus online on how to create an account and start making those phone calls!

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Vodafone

Vodafone offers easy and affordable calls from Australia either on a plan or pre-paid.

If you’re after a plan with no lock-in contracts check out more information here and if you want something where you recharge on the go then a pre-paid Vodafone gives you a 35-day expiry on selected Data and Talk Combo Packs and recharges. This is a cheap and effective way to go.

Tip: Data combos have heaps of data, and Talk Combos give you 1000 standard international minutes from Australia to either 15 or 25 selected destinations. How good is that!

Virgin Mobile

Virgin mobile includes standard international calls as part of all of their post-paid plans. You can check out their call rates here.

One of the best things about Virgin Mobile is that they offer International SMS. Sending a text to anywhere overseas from Australia should not cost much more than sending one to your neighbour!

Tip: You can find more info on how to set up mobile plans or how to use pre-paid at Virgin Mobile.

WHERE TO FIND A SUMMER JOB THAT SUITS YOU

This article is written by Alanna Tomazin

Looking for a job over the summer? Great, because we’ve come up with a few handy tips on how and where you can find the perfect summer job while staying here in Australia that suits you!

The thought of looking for a job for the summer can put a buzz kill on your holiday vibes, but the truth is having employment means having money, plus you can meet new people and make new friends. While over here in Australia you’ll need the extra cash to enjoy your time while on a break as sometimes the fun things Australia has to offer aren’t always cheap or free.

Tip: If you’re ever wondering what events are on in Sydney or other areas, head over to Visit NSW.

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Cafes/Restaurant

Living in busy city areas you will find that there are a huge number of cafes and restaurants to choose from when you’re after a nice cup of hot coffee or dinner with friends. But have you ever thought about working in one? Working in a cafe and/or restaurant is a great experience, you can make coffees and be a waitress or a waiter taking food and drinks out to customers. These kinds of places have a busy atmosphere so if you’re up for a challenge then this is the right area of work for you.

To apply for a job at a cafe/restaurant, you should print out a few copies of your resume and walk around to your local businesses, dropping them in.

Tip 1: Be sure to walk in with a smile and say that you would like to drop your resume in and ask if they have any jobs going at the moment.

Tip 2: When working in a cafe employees are usually required to have a barista certificate, meaning that they have basic coffee making skills and know how to use an espresso machine. Not to worry if you don’t have one yet, just jump online at TAFE NSW or Barista Basics for more information.

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Pubs

Gaining bar work is another great place to get some extra cash in your pocket. All you need is your RSA and RCG to guarantee getting hired in this area of work, where you will be pouring beers, making drinks and dealing with gambling games. If you don’t have either you can head online and find a location near you.

Most places such as CBD College offer packages that are cheap and affordable for students like you.

The best bit about working in a pub is that the hours are super flexible and the money is pretty good, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy other activities with your friends.

Retail

With Christmas coming up over the summer break there are always more jobs available for those interested in clothes and jewelry. This is mainly because the shops can get pretty hectic with everyone wanting to buy gifts and do their Christmas shopping.

If you think you would like to work in retail you should definitely print out your resume and drop them into local shops that you are interested in. However, a more efficient way to look for a job in retail is to use job sites such as SEEK, Indeed, and Adzuna.

Tip: Job sites allow you to create a profile and add a CV which you can send through to employers when you apply for a job online. They also send you emails with jobs that suit you.

Harvest/Fruit Picking

Harvest and fruit picking are extremely popular for backpackers and international students who are looking for a change of scenery and love to travel. It is becoming increasingly popular and work is available all over Australia, especially in the summer. The farming industry needs tens of thousands of casual laborers to help pick fruit.

You can work and play by traveling around to different locations and often, you will be paid calculated by the amount of fruit you pick to per full bucket or cart. However, sometimes it is $10-$30 an hour depending on speed.

If you’re interested in experiencing something new and exciting then head online to Harvest Trail for more info and to find the next fruit picking location for you!

48 HOURS IN: PERTH

The article is written by Candice Locklee

As one of the most isolated cities in the world, visiting Perth may not be at the top of your list when you first move to Australia. But with its balmy weather, white beaches, amazing food and wine and laid back Aussie lifestyle, the capital of Western Australia is a scenic paradise just waiting to be explored.

If you’ve only got 48 hours to spare in this vibrant city, here are our top picks of things to do in a short amount of time:

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KINGS PARK

Just outside of the central business district is one of the largest city parks you’ll find in the world and it’s a must-see while visiting Perth. Stretching over 400 hectares (that’s bigger than New York’s famous Central Park!), Kings Park is a spectacular mix of bushland, flat grassy parklands and colourful botanical gardens full of native flora and fauna.

Take a picnic and enjoy a day in the park, get some exercise jogging through the bush or grab your camera and snap some Insta-worthy shots of the city skyline at one of the many lookouts available in the area. Not only is Kings Park the perfect spot for city skyline photos, you can also get some gloriously uninterrupted views of the majestic Swan River, the rolling Perth Hills and endless blue skies that make this city beautiful.

For those who love a tour, there are free guided trail tours on offer that depart daily from outside the gallery shop Aspects of Kings Park at 10 am and 12 pm (1^st Sept-30^th June) and 2 pm. There are also self-guided tours available for those who want to explore at their own pace – just head to the Visitor Information Centre on the site for all the helpful brochures you’ll need to get started.

DIRECTIONS

KINGS PARK:

Just 1.5km outside of the CBD, Kings Park is easily accessible by public transport. From Perth’s main street St Georges Terrace, catch the 935 bus route to Fraser Avenue Precinct (stop Number 17501). From here, it’s an approximately short 429m walk to Kings Park.

Note: This bus travels within the Free Transit Zone so you can hop on and off for free.

THE BEACHES

Western Australia’s world famous beaches boast miles of pure white sand and clear blue water that is perfect for swimming, surfing, snorkelling or just lazing around any time of the year.

Perth is within easy reach of some of the best beaches. Cottesloe Beach is a popular tourist beach halfway between Perth and Fremantle that has been a favourite holiday spot for generations. With over a kilometre of white sand, there’s plenty of time to have a swim and a snorkel before finding a spot to watch the sun go down over the Indian Ocean – sunsets are famous in WA and a must-see any time of the year!

Scarborough Beach is another popular spot. Located on the Sunset Coast, Scarborough Beach is a fantastic idea for those who want to soak up the sun and surf before heading off to one of the many cafés along the beachfront for something to eat. Hotels, hostels and shopping are also just a step away.

For something a little more adventurous, take a day trip out to Rottnest Island – a dazzling paradise of bright white sands and crystal waters that’s perfect for whale watching, bird spotting, snorkelling, swimming and surfing. There’s also plenty of hidden beaches if you want something a little more private, such as Strickland Bay, Mary Cove and Catherine Bay which are favourites for surfers.

DIRECTIONS

COTTESLOE BEACH:

There are two main ways to get to Cottesloe from Perth. You can hop on a train by catching the Fremantle line and getting off at Cottesloe. Trains leave every 15 minutes and the ride will take less than 20 minutes. Once there, just follow the signs to the beach just a short walk away.

Alternatively, you can take the bus line 102 from Elizabeth Quay Bus Station to Cottesloe Station. The ride should be about 40 minutes and cost less than $5. Check the link for a detailed timetable of all the stops, click here.

SCARBOROUGH BEACH:

Get to Scarborough Beach by catching one of the bus routes 410, 421, 422 and 990 that run past Scarborough beachfront.

ROTTNEST ISLAND:

Rottnest Island can be reached by ferry. You can book your ticket online through one of the ferry companies that leave from Perth, Fremantle and Hillary’s Boat Harbour in Perth’s North. Click on the company links for deals and tickets – Rottness Express or Rottnest Fast Ferries.

Study Anywhere_winery

THE WINERIES

If you want to indulge a little, why not head out to Swan Valley and visit one of the many wineries that make this region so famous? Only 25 minutes from Perth’s CBD, Swan Valley is a sweeping landscape rich in art, history, gourmet food and a thriving viticulture that can all be sampled along the famous Food and Wine Trail – a 32km scenic drive that will take you through the heart of the region for you to experience all that it has to offer.

While you’re there, take some time to visit the Caversham Wildlife Park. With over 2000 animals to see, including koalas, dingoes, reptiles, wombats and the super-cute Quokka, it’s a great way to spend the day with friends and take some memorable photos of your time in WA.

DIRECTIONS

SWAN VALLEY:

There is no regular public transport through this region, so it’s best to pre-arrange your transport. Guided tours are a great way to discover the Swan Valley and can take you from Perth city and along the Food and Wine Trail.

Check the link for details.

CAVERSHAM WILDLIFE PARK:

Caversham Wildlife Park is located in Whiteman Park and is open 9am-5:30 pm every day of the year (minus Xmas) – entry is $28 for one adult. From the Bassendean Station in Perth, catch bus number 955 or 956 to Ellenbrook and get off at the Whiteman Park stop on Lord St.

FREMANTLE

No trip to Perth is complete without a visit to the nearby port city of Fremantle – a place that is pretty as a picture and rich with Western Australia history. Once there, check out one of the many popular things to do in town. Visit the foreboding Fremantle Prison that stands as Australia’s largest convict prison still intact, explore the Western Australian Maritime Museum to get an understanding of Fremantle’s interesting history (including its history of surf boards and marine creatures), head down to South Terrace where you’ll find an abundance of tasty cafés, restaurants and craft breweries and visit the popular Fremantle Markets open every Friday/ Saturday/ Sunday for an eclectic mix of great food, drink, Indigenous art and local music.

If you need to burn some extra calories, why not hire a bike for free from the Fremantle Visitor Centre and cycle to all of the places you want to see? Fremantle is very bicycle-friendly and there are bike lanes all over the city that can easily take you to all of the popular tourist destinations within the area.

DIRECTIONS

FREMANTLE:

Transperth, Perth’s public transport system, makes it easy to reach Fremantle. Catch the train on the Fremantle line from Perth Station and get off at the final stop, Fremantle Station. If paying for a cash ticket, it should cost you around $7.40 for a return, or $6.00 if using a SmartRider card. Buses are also available outside of train stations in order to easily meet up with train times and get you between Perth and Fremantle as well as anywhere you need to go in the city.

For details and to plan your journey click here.

NOTE:

Similar to Perth’s CBD, Fremantle offers a free shuttle service called CAT (Central Area Transit) meaning that you don’t have to pay anything to travel around the city. Watch out for the blue CAT that runs every 10 minutes and the red CAT that runs every 15 minutes. Check this link for bus stops and timetables.

Top 5 things to do in Melbourne

The article is written by Candice Tan

If you’ve lived in Sydney or Melbourne for even a short amount of time, you would probably have heard about the small rivalry between the two most populous cities in Australia. In this spirit of this light-hearted competition and our earlier article about Sydney’s hot spots, here is our essential ‘To do’ list in Melbourne:

Study Anywhere_Have a coffee in the laneways

Have a coffee in the laneways!

Melbourne may not have famous icons such as the Sydney Opera House or Sydney Harbour Bridge, but it does make a great cup of coffee. Take a wander down the many vibrant laneways and admire the colourful street art as you sit and sip on an expertly-made espresso or flat white, or be like a local and grab your takeaway cup as you explore what the city has to offer.

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Soak up some culture!

Melbourne has long been considered the Australian city with the most European-feel and cultural activities. From the majestic Princess Theatre to the iconic Comedy Theatre, you will have plenty of choices to spend a night out in Melbourne. Or, just walk down Swanston Street or Bourke Street and enjoy the world-class performances by an assortment of talented buskers.

Study Anywhere_Go to a festival

Go to a festival!

It is almost impossible to be in Melbourne and not encounter a festival happening around the city. From the world famous Melbourne Comedy Festival and Melbourne Fringe to smaller festivals celebrating the multicultural nature of the world’s most liveable city, weekends in Melbourne are never dull. There will always be something to see and do (and probably eat!) at Federation Square or along the Yarra River.

Study Anywhere_Hop on a tram

Hop on a tram!

Melbourne has the largest tram network in the world and on top of that, riding on the trams within the city is free – yes, free! This is something you won’t find in pricey Sydney. There’s even a tram catering to visitors, with a guided tour of the main attractions around the city. The extensive tram system and simple grid-shaped layout of the city also make it one of the easiest cities to navigate.

Study Anywhere_Get out of the CBD

Get out of the CBD!

While the city will keep you more than occupied, if you drive just a couple of hours outside of the city, you’ll encounter some of the most breathtaking places in Australia. From the Great Ocean Road’s spectacular 12 Apostles to the magnificent Wilson’s Promontory, you’ll be amazed at what the Victorian coasts have to offer. Or, be a like a local and take the opportunity to go on a hike or walk when the sun’s out at popular Dandenong Ranges or Macedon Ranges.
So which city is better? Well, it’s a tough one. But one thing’s for sure – both cities have great things to offer and anyone visiting Australia should get a taste of both if they can!

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