In the beginning

The Boonwurrung people were the Indigenous tribe, the traditional custodians of the Mornington Peninsula before the European settlement was established near Sorrento in 1803. Aboriginal people had occupied these lands for millennia.

The late 1800s

Grapes were initially planted in Victoria during the gold rush, leading to the development of the Mornington Peninsula as a wine region. In 1886, wine from the region was recognized at the Intercontinental Exhibition in London, and by 1891, there were six registered vineyards.

The rising star of this wine region soon faded due to a combination of factors, including a downturn in the economy, changing wine preferences, and the emergence of warmer-climate regions.

Due to its cool climate, this region stopped grape growing and winemaking for almost 80 years.

1970s

A group of winemakers began revitalizing the region by establishing a modern wine industry. In 1972, Baillieu Myer planted vines at Elgee Park in Merricks North, intending to produce high-quality, cool-climate wines similar to those found in renowned wine regions of France.

The first Pinot Noir and Chardonnay vines were planted in Mornington, leading to the establishment of the area’s first commercial winery at Main Ridge Estate.

After visiting Château Pommard in Burgundy and noting climatic similarities, they planted an experimental vineyard of seven grape varieties in an old lemon grove.

Red Hill Orchard produced their first vintage in 1979 using a kitchen moulis, with their first commercial vintage happening the following year at the newly constructed Main Ridge.

The Estate Winery was established in 1980 and successfully lobbied for local council regulations to be changed to permit cellar-door sales.

1980s

The second wave of Peninsula producers made a significant impact on Australia’s wine community. Moorooduc Estate was established in 1982 by Richard and Jill McIntyre, and is now a well-known family-run winery in the region. Richard described their wines as “natural, with a touch of.”

In 1982, the term “quality control” was introduced to ensure top-quality fruit is delivered to wineries in optimal condition, with minimal manipulation required to produce wine. The incorporation of the Mornington Peninsula Vignerons Association in the same year has since played a significant role in the industry.

The region contains most of the vineyards and wineries, with Paringa Estate being another notable establishment in the second wave.

The winery, established in 1984 by Lindsay McCall and his wife, started out as a pioneer in the region and has since grown to become one of the biggest names. They bought a derelict orchard in Paringa Road to begin their venture.

1990s

The region saw continued development as winemakers honed signature varieties like Pinot Noir and Chardonnay while also exploring new varieties like Pinot Gris/Grigio. More vineyards were established, and notable producers such as Kooyong, Ten Minutes by Tractor, Montalto, and Yabby Lake added to the region’s appeal.

Today

The Mornington Peninsula’s wineries have contributed to the region’s success and nurtured a new wave of winemakers dedicated to showcasing its potential. Known for producing top-quality Pinot Noir and Chardonnay, as well as a variety of other wines like Pinot Gris, Shiraz, Tempranillo, and Gamay, the region’s winemakers are focusing on vineyard practices and minimal intervention in the winemaking process to highlight the diverse soils and microclimates that make this Australian region unique.

We recommend the Melbourne Wine Tour if you are interested in our region.

Alice Springs is a diverse and exhilarating destination with stunning landscapes, remote communities, and a unique pioneering history. It is known for its thriving outback centre, local personalities, contemporary and traditional art, and natural wonders such as the Larapinta Trail and the MacDonnell Ranges.

Popular activities near Alice Springs

Alice Springs, located in Australia’s Northern Territory, offers a variety of activities and attractions for visitors to enjoy, including desert landscapes, historical sites, and cultural experiences with the Arrernte people. You can visit the sights and explore the region by joining us on a day trip from Alice Springs. Here are ten recommended things to do in the area.

View the sunrise from a hot-air balloon

Outback Ballooning in Alice Springs launched Australia’s giant hot-air balloon in 2017, which can accommodate 24 passengers and the pilot. It offers a unique experience of watching the desert dawn from above while floating peacefully in a hot-air balloon, with kangaroos, brumbies, and camels roaming below. After landing, guests are treated to sparkling wine, juice, and light refreshments.

Visit the Alice attractions

Visitors to Alice Springs can explore the Alice Springs Reptile Centre to see a variety of unique reptiles, including goannas and frill-necked lizards, and learn about the extensive education program offered by the Alice Springs School of the Air. The Telegraph Station provides a glimpse into the area’s history as the first European settlement in Alice Springs. Those interested in wildlife conservation can visit the Kangaroo Sanctuary to see orphaned joeys being cared for by Chris’ Brolga’ Barnes, known from the BBC series’ Kangaroo Dundee.’

Watch the desert transform

Explore the flora and fauna of Central Australia at the Alice Springs Desert Park. Walk through three desert habitats and watch the free-flying birds of prey show in the nature theatre. See local reptiles, bats, birds, and the Australian Bilby in the nocturnal house. Learn how Aboriginal people find and prepare food, make bush medicine, and store water.

Explore the scenic gardens

Visitors to the Olive Pink Botanic Gardens can explore the gardens at their own pace, visit the Visitor Centre for information, and grab a meal at the café while taking in the native plant and animal life along the walking tracks.

Golf at top desert courses worldwide

The golf course in Alice features manicured greens and rolling fairways set against the red MacDonnell Ranges. Golfers enjoy the challenge of narrow fairways bordered by rocky outcrops and rough terrain. Amenities include a pro shop, motorized buggies, a driving range, a putting green, a clubhouse, and a restaurant.

Experience a camel ride at sunset

Experience the beauty of the Australian outback with a camel ride through the Ilparpa Valley offered by Pyndan Camel Tracks. The camels are well-trained by Marcus, an experienced ‘camel man’, and guests can enjoy a peaceful ride while enjoying the stunning sunset views. Complimentary pick-up is available from Alice Springs accommodations.

Discover the West MacDonnell Ranges

The West MacDonnell Ranges are located 160km west of Alice Springs and are known for their picturesque scenery, top-notch hikes, swimming spots, and natural wonders. Visitors can join a tour or drive to explore the area. Some highlights include spotting black-footed rock wallabies at Simpsons Gap, witnessing the vibrant red walls of Standley Chasm at noon, swimming at Ellery Creek Big Hole, and visiting Ormiston Gorge, Glen Helen, and the Ochre Pits, an important sacred site for local Aboriginal people.

Visit the East Macs

Explore the East MacDonnell Ranges by heading east from Alice Springs. Visit Emily Gap to see Aboriginal rock art and picnic at Jessie Gap. Walk the circular track at Corroboree Rock and then visit Trephina Gorge, a popular attraction in the area. Further along is N’Dhala Gorge, accessible only by four-wheel drive, where you can find over 5,000 ancient rock carvings. Explore the ruins of Central Australia’s first town at the Arltunga Historical Reserve. Lastly, visit Ruby Gap, known for its beautiful scenery and history of garnet findings.

Consider camping at Rainbow Valley

Rainbow Valley is a sandstone bluff with colourful bands that change colour at sunset. Mushroom Rock is an unusual sandstone formation with a natural tunnel. You can take a short walk to see it. You can join a day trip from Alice Springs (75km south, four-wheel-drive required) or camp there with your gear. The area has toilets, barbecues, and picnic tables for visitors.

Visit the birthplace of Albert Namatjira

Hermannsburg, located a 1.5-hour drive west of Alice Springs in Central Australia, is the first town in the region. It is known as the home of the famous Aboriginal watercolour artist Albert Namatjira. Visitors can explore his house and the museum, enjoy refreshments at the Kata Anga Tea Rooms, and view original paintings by Albert Namatjira and works by the renowned Hermannsburg Potters at the Namatjira Gallery.

Kings Day is a national holiday in the Netherlands celebrated on the 27th of April each year. It marks the birthday of King Willem-Alexander and is a day filled with festivities, parades, orange-colored clothing, and joyful celebrations. Let’s dive into the traditions and customs of this special day.

Preparations

Before Kings Day, the Dutch people start preparing by decorating their houses and streets with orange-colored banners, flags, and balloons. Orange is the national color of the Netherlands and is associated with the royal family, the House of Orange-Nassau. People also clean out their attics and garages to set up stalls for the famous Kings Day flea markets.

Flea Markets

The Kings Day flea markets are a highlight of the celebrations. People of all ages set up stalls on the streets to sell their second-hand items, toys, clothes, and homemade crafts. It’s an excellent opportunity for locals to socialize, bargain, and engage in sustainable practices by recycling and reusing items. The streets are bustling with bargain hunters, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere.

Parades and Festivities

Throughout the day, there are parades and various festivities organized in cities and towns across the Netherlands. Music bands, dance groups, and performers fill the streets, offering entertainment for all ages. Colorful floats, decorated boats on canals, and street performances create a festive ambiance. People wear orange clothing, wigs, hats, and accessories, showcasing their national pride and love for the royal family.

Children’s Activities

Kings Day is a special day for children, packed with fun activities. Many cities organize special events such as treasure hunts, face painting, puppet shows, and games for children to enjoy. Families often participate in these activities together, making it a memorable experience for everyone.

Traditional Games

There are several traditional games played on Kings Day, such as “koekhappen,” where participants try to bite a hanging cookie with their hands tied behind their back, and “spijkerpoepen,” where players attach a nail to a string tied around their waist and try to lower it into a bottle.

Street Performances and Music

Street performers and musicians fill the air with their talents, showcasing diverse forms of entertainment. You can find bands playing traditional Dutch music, DJs hosting open-air parties, and local talents performing on street corners. Dancing, singing, and celebration are in full swing throughout the day.

Eating and Drinking

Food and drinks play an essential role in Kings Day celebrations. Street food stalls offer a wide variety of traditional Dutch snacks, such as “bitterballen” (deep-fried meatballs), “poffertjes” (tiny fluffy pancakes), and “haring” (raw herring). The Dutch also enjoy their famous orange-colored liqueur, “Oranjebitter,” and other refreshing beverages while celebrating.

Kings Day is a day of joy, unity, and national pride for the Dutch people. It brings communities together, fosters cultural traditions, and creates memorable experiences for people of all ages. The combination of flea markets, parades, street performances, and delicious food makes Kings Day a unique and vibrant celebration in the Netherlands.

What is Three Kings Day?

Phillip Island is known for its variety of animal encounters, with one of the most popular being the nightly parade of Little Penguins returning from their day at sea.

The smallest penguins in the world, fairy penguins are native to Australia and New Zealand and can be found on Phillip Island in Victoria, so book a Penguin Parade tour and watch them in their habitat.

The Fascinating Habitat of Victoria’s Little Penguins

This beauty of a spectacle is a ripper for animal enthusiasts in the area, especially since this unreal experience is a once-in-a-dinkum-lifetime event. Not only can you squit at the adorable little blighters waddling up the beach, but you can also get the lowdown on their digs and how they go about their day at the Visitor Centre.

Believe it or not, the Little Penguins are the tiniest penguins going around – that’s why they’re named that. They stand about 33cm tall on average and mainly hang about the southern coasts of Australia and New Zealand, spending their days at sea snagging a feed before rocking up back on shore come nightfall. Sometimes, folks call these wee creatures fairy penguins because of their pint-size.

Guide to Locating Little Penguins

Phillip Island is home to the largest colony of Little Penguins. The penguin parade occurs every evening on Summerland Beach. The island is popular with tourists seeking wildlife encounters. There are 32,000 breeding pairs on the island and in St Kilda and Victoria Pier. Little Penguins have lived on the breakwater long and have been studied for conservation since the mid-1980s.

Various tourist spots in Australia include Little Penguins near London Arch, the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road, and Wilson’s Promontory and Gabo Island.

These spots are all about gorgeous, untamed beaches where the penguins can kick back on an evening, and the warm waters are perfect for them to go fishing during the day. Phillip Island is your best bet if you’re chasing nature encounters while wandering around Australia. The nightly penguin parade is a top-notch way to spend your evening after you’ve sussed out everything to know about the adorable little blokes’ home turf, their story in Oz, and the efforts to keep them safe for their future.

Be sure to rock up at the viewing area early to snag the best spot, whether you’re keen to watch the procession from up top or right at eye level.

What makes fairy penguins unique?

The penguins, also known as trim or blue, are unique because they have blue feathers. These blue feathers help them blend in the water, where they spend most of their time. They have about 10,000 feathers despite their small size. Visitors are fond of these penguins because they are tiny and adorable, making them unique attractions.

Where can fairy penguins be found?

Little penguins can be best observed on Summerland Beach in Phillip Island, where the Penguin Parade occurs every evening at sunset as the penguins return to the island for the night.

Penguin Parade offers various ways to view the blue penguins.

General viewing

The general viewing area at Summerland Beach has tiered seating and boardwalks available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering a great view of the beach before the penguins arrive.

Penguin Plus

If you want a better view of the penguins, consider upgrading to Penguin Plus. This upgrade offers a different viewing experience compared to general seating. You will be on a platform that blends in with the natural surroundings and puts you closer to the penguins’ path.

Underground viewing

Experience the unique opportunity to observe penguins at eye level as they navigate their path underground. Visitors are enclosed behind a window for safety and protection from the weather.

Guided ranger tour

Take a ranger-guided tour to observe little penguins as they come ashore at the beach. This experience offers a unique opportunity to witness them up close on the beachfront.

Ultimate adventure tour

Visitors can learn about penguins from a ranger during a beach walk, followed by observing them in a secluded area as they shuffle through the sand. Night vision scopes are available for viewing in the dark.

Family wildlife tour

The ranger organizes an educational program for children, and you and the kids have reserved seats in the main viewing area.

Tips for watching Little Penguins

– Flash photography is prohibited due to the penguins’ sensitivity to light, which can frighten or disorient them.

– It is recommended that the penguins remain seated to avoid sudden movements that may scare them.

– Visitors are advised to arrive an hour before the penguins arrive to explore the visitor centre or have a meal.

– The Penguin Parade is held regardless of weather conditions, so it is essential to check the forecast and dress accordingly.

Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a large sandstone rock formation in the heart of Australia’s Red Centre. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and holds significant cultural and spiritual importance to the Anangu people, the traditional owners of the land. Many tourists flock to this iconic landmark to witness its natural beauty and learn about its cultural significance. If you are planning to visit Uluru, it is important to understand the costs associated with the experience.

Entrance fee:

Before exploring Uluru, visitors are required to pay an entrance fee. As of October 2021, the fee is $38 AUD for adults and $20 AUD for children under 18 years old. This fee allows you access to the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, where Uluru is located, and is valid for three consecutive days.

Guided tours:

While it is possible to explore Uluru independently, many visitors opt to take guided tours to enhance their experience and gain a deeper understanding of the site’s cultural significance. The costs of these tours vary depending on the type and duration of the tour. On average, you can expect to pay between $75 AUD to $300 AUD per person for a guided tour.

Accommodation:

If you plan to stay overnight near Uluru, there are various accommodation options available. These include luxury resorts, budget-friendly hotels, and campgrounds. The prices for accommodation range from $150 AUD per night for basic hotel rooms to over $1,000 AUD per night for luxurious resort suites. Camping fees start at around $20 AUD per person per night.

Transportation:

Getting to Uluru often involves air travel to Alice Springs, the closest major airport. From there, you can take a domestic flight to Ayers Rock Airport, which is located near Uluru. Alternatively, you can drive from Alice Springs to Uluru, which takes approximately 4.5 hours. The cost of flights to Alice Springs varies depending on your departure location, but on average, you can expect to pay between $300 AUD to $800 AUD for a round-trip ticket. Car rental prices start at around $50 AUD per day.

Additional expenses:

• Food and drinks: It is important to consider the cost of meals and refreshments during your visit to Uluru. Dining options range from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants, with prices varying accordingly.
• Souvenirs and merchandise: Many visitors like to purchase souvenirs and indigenous artworks as a memento of their trip. These items can range in price depending on their size and complexity.
• Optional activities: Uluru offers additional experiences such as helicopter rides, camel rides, and cultural workshops. Prices for these activities vary but can range from $50 AUD to $500 AUD per person.

Final thoughts:

Visiting Uluru is a unique and unforgettable experience that comes with various costs. From the entrance fee to accommodation and transportation, it is important to budget accordingly for your trip. Remember to also consider additional expenses such as guided tours, food, and optional activities to make the most of your visit to this iconic landmark.

Uluru – Top 10 Things to Do – by Fozzie

Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, is a sacred and iconic natural landmark located in the heart of Australia. It is a place of great cultural significance for the Indigenous people and attracts millions of tourists each year. Planning your visit to Uluru requires careful consideration of the best times of year to fully enjoy this unique destination.

Spring (September to November)

In spring, Uluru experiences mild temperatures that range from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). The weather is pleasant for outdoor activities and exploring the immense beauty of the area. Spring flowers also bloom, adding vibrant colors to the landscape. However, it can be a busy time due to the school holidays, so it is recommended to book accommodation and tours well in advance.

Summer (December to February)

During summer, the weather in Uluru can be scorching hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit). It is important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun’s strong rays. Despite the heat, summer brings occasional thunderstorms, creating dramatic skies and cooling down the area. Summer is considered the low tourist season, so you may find better deals on accommodations and fewer crowds.

Autumn (March to May)

Autumn is a transitional season in Uluru, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 degrees Celsius (68 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit). The weather is stable, allowing for comfortable exploration of the area. Autumn is also a great time to witness stunning sunrises and sunsets, as the sky often showcases vibrant hues of orange and purple. It is advisable to book your accommodation and tours in advance, as this is still a popular time for tourists.

Winter (June to August)

Winter in Uluru brings cooler temperatures, ranging from 5 to 20 degrees Celsius (41 to 68 degrees Fahrenheit) during the day, and can drop below freezing at night. Despite the chilly weather, winter days are often sunny and clear, providing ideal conditions for hiking and outdoor activities. Winter is considered the peak tourist season, so it is recommended to book well in advance and be prepared for larger crowds.

Uluru offers a unique experience throughout the year, with each season presenting its own charm and advantages. Whether you prefer mild temperatures, vibrant landscapes, or minimal crowds, there is a time of year that will suit your preferences. Consider these factors when planning your visit to Uluru and make the most of your journey to this remarkable natural wonder.

Uluru Astro Tours