In the know

Queensland

Cairns and Surrounds

Palm Cove

• Hot Air Balloons: Unfortunately the bush tent BBQ champagne breakfast is no longer available, however they do offer alternate breakfast options, including a 5 star breakfast buffet or the local waterfront cafe (additional cost) and will drop you at the front door! What more could you ask!

Queensland

Far North Queensland

Port Douglas

• Peppers Bale Resort: Said goodbye suddenly in March 2012. There is still some beautiful accommodation options in PD. Try the Coconut Grove Apartments located in the heart of town, some with a private roof top pool. 56 Macrossan Street (07) 4099 0600 www.coconutgroveportdouglas.com.au

• Origin Espresso: Never fear, the coffee addicts are still alive and kicking but have moved their little roaster around the corner to 21-23 Warner Street. Wake up and smell the coffee.  www.originespresso.com

Great Barrier Reef 

• Phantom Charters: Sadly, this little gem is no longer operating chartered vessels. However, with so many options available at the Marina you won't miss out on anything the reef has to offer. 

Queensland

Sunshine Coast

Queensland

The Gold Coast

Burleigh Heads

New South Wales

Byron Bay and Surrounds

Byron Bay 

Byron Bay

• The Top Shop: This is what Byron Bay is all about.... rocking up salty, sandy and starving.... you won't be out of place at this revived Byron Icon. Coffee is great and food is fresh from the farmers market, all at a reasonable price. Linger over your lunch on the lawn... there's no rush. Corner of Carlyle and Massinger Streets (02) 6685 6495
• Byron Yoga Centre: Can you put a price on finding your inner joy and connectedness? Prices for Yoga have increased - $17 for a casual visit, $8 for the early 6am rises and $10 for the 4pm session. 
• Fig Tree Restaurant: The Farmers Market Menu (Thurs night) offering local produce cooked with love and precision has slightly increased, 4 courses $55, 6 courses $75.

Lennox Head

• Blackboard on the Beach: Is now open daily from 7.30am. Perfect spot to recharge after an early morning swim!

New South Wales

Central Coast

Terrigal

• The Pear House: The gorgeous shopfront has closed however The Pear House has not disappeared. You can call them to organise a a private viewing in their studio at Matcham (not far from the original store) or check their website or facebook page for 'pop up' stores occuring. (02) 4365 6550 http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Pear-House/138277962891198?ref=ts&v=wall. 
• Lucy in the Sky: No longer on trading via the shopfront, you can still buy online at www.lucyinthesky.com.au
• Haven Beach Cafe: The Seafood Platter for 2 has gone up to $75, but we reckon this is still pretty good value!

Avoca Beach

• The Point Cafe: Make the most of the location for breakfast or lunch as unfortunately they are no longer open for dinner. 

Pearl Beach and Patonga

• Pearls on the beach: Please forgive our typo with the website. The correct address is www.pearlsonthebeach.com.au
• Palm Beach and Hawkesbury River Cruises: Still a great day out exploring the river. Information is available on a new website www.sydneysceniccruises.com

Killcare and Hardy's Bay

• Randall's at the Beach: sadly the doors closed at Randall's late last year. The good news is that owners of the the popular Point Cafe at Avoca Beach have taken over and opened another Point Cafe in the premises. So now you can enjoy the award winning breakfasts, lunch AND dinner in the same glorious location.
• Hardy's Bay RSL: Bummer, no more outdoor pool table!

New South Wales

Manly and Surrounds

Manly

The Manly Pavilion: Sad but true, the stunning Manly Pavilion has hit tough times and is currently closed. We hope a knight in shining armour will come and save this beautiful princess soon.... we will be sure to keep you posted. 

Chica Bonita: Doing the 'street food' mexican thing, this just opened teeny-tiny but groovy sunny little back alley nook, looks like it might have it nailed! Get here early for a table and try the handmade (literally) Guacamole with Margaritas served in quirky jars. 7 The Corso (down the alley) 0450 612 896

New South Wales

Mudgee and Surrounds

• Bizzy Birds Cafe: not sure what we were thinking but the Bizzy Birds Cafe (NOT the Bizzy Bee Cafe!) is as cute as ever.

New South Wales

Orange and Surrounds

New South Wales

Port Stephens

New South Wales

Shoalhaven Region

Berry

• Aladdin's Cave: We are not sure what happened but Aladdin's Cave seems to have closed shop. Sad but true. Can't wait to see what appears in its place. In the meantime, the wool store next door has some much needed ugg boots and other furry friends for those crisp nights.
• Berry Sourdough & Milkwood Bakery: Getting too popular to meet demand, the crew from the famous Berry Sourdough Cafe have opened a mini-cafe (yes it's that good) on the Princes Hwy – 'Milkwood Bakery', opposite the newsagent. Pop in for takeaway coffee, delicious cake and fresh breads. Their main cafe on Prince Alfred street is still as popular as ever and now open for brekkie and lunch from Wednesday – Sunday, 8am-3pm.

Huskisson

• Indigo Love: due to the popularity of the all the collectables, this gorgeous store has expanded and moved around the corner to Curramben Street (opposite the Husky Bakery). You can't miss the painted blue coloured weatherboard house packed with pieces from far and wide, fashion to frolic in and unique nic-nacks. Love indeed! indigolove.com.au Currambene St (02) 4441 8277 
• Pilgrims Wholefoods Cafe: is in the old space of Indigo Love (hidden down the laneway near the carpark) has sensationally fresh brekkies and the burgers alone will ensure that this place becomes your regular hangout. You'll leave feeling very happy and healthy. 57 Owen St (02) 4441 6118
• BooBook: Bookworms will pleasurably peruse amongst this boutique bookstore of old and new books plus other fabulous fair-trade gifts, children’s toys and jewellery. Open 10am – 4pm (closed on Tuesdays during NSW school term). 1/68 Owen St(02) 4441 8585 boobookonowen.com.au
  
• Canoe with a View: Boo hoo, no more view. Unfortunately they are now closed for business however you can speak to the guys at Jervis Bay Kayaks for a self guided tour or a discovery 1/2 day tour instead. Located around the corner from the Husky pub, kayak hire is from $49 a double for up to two hours. (02) 4441 7157. Closed Tuesdays. jervisbaykayaks.com
  
• The Waterhouse: A groovy new offering is just what sleepy Husky needed. On the site of the former Seagrass Brasserie, this little winner is a perfect place for an afternoon bevy and bar snack, with all the city slickers cravings - Ciders and Sliders on Sunday evening a winner. 13 Currambene St (02) 4441 8801 thewaterhousejervisbay.com.au
• The Bike Path: Good news for lovers of lycra and the walkers, the great 'yellow' bike track that runs along the beachfront now extends that little bit further into Vincentia to the front of Orion Beach. Start at Twyford St in Vincentia and peddle all the way to the beergarden at the Husky Pub for a sundowner to reward you for your efforts. 
• Seagrass Brasserie: Unfortunately they are now closed but word on the street is that it will be opening again very soon in a new location - stay tuned. 
• Booderee National Park: Entry fee has increased to $11 to protect the beautiful park's natural and cultural values,well worth the small increase. environment.gov.au
• Kladis Estate: Sadly this little gem is now closed.

New South Wales

Southern Highlands

The wind of change has passed through the Southern Highlands

Berrima

• Due to sad circumstances, Peppergreen Homewares is closing down in January 2012. Everything is 50% off if you are there before it closes
• The quaint Old Bakery Tea Rooms has ceased trading. But if you are still craving a little bit naughty, Southern Highlands infamous Gumnut Patisserie (located on the Post Office corner) has all the baked treats you could dream of.
• Josh's Cafe is alive and well however BYO is now on Thursdays only and there is a $3.00 corkage per person. Ouch!
• New owners and new name has seen the old Journeyman location resurrected at The Stone Room - wine bar and tapas in a ambient surroundings. Sit outside under the shady wines in summer or inside around the fireplace in winter. www.thestoneroom.com.au

Moss Vale

• Don't pass through without stopping in at Made By Others (366 Argyle Street madebyothers.wordpress.com). Have a coffee whilst you peruse the gorgeous gifts and handmade treasures.

Sutton Forest

• Who could resist a little 'pick your own' berry picking at Montrose Berry Farm. Moments from a heritage listed homestead, wander around the berry patch during summer however the onsite farm shop is worth a visit to stock up on the sugary sweetness all year round. Open March to November - Friday to Sunday 10-4pm. Closed 24 June to 27 July 2012. (Ormond St, Sutton Forest. montroseberryfarm.com.au).

New South Wales

Sydney’s Northern Beaches

New South Wales

The Blue Mountains

 Leura

• Everglades Historic House and Gardens: The entry price has increased slightly to $10, still worth a look at this enchanted garden.
  

New South Wales

The Hunter Valley

Rothbury

• Black Creek Farm - the newsest kid on the block, and we like it! Hearty homecooked share plates makes a wintery lunch with friends a must on the balcony of this quirky farmhouse. And they have our favourite Scarborough wines on the list. Open for lunch everyday except Wednesday and Thursday as well as dinner Friday and Saturday. Check out this newest gem, delicious! 803 Old North Road blackcreekfarm.com.au

Other things to do:

• Majors Lane Cooking School: It is a little more expensive to learn the art of asian cooking. Classes have increased to $125pp but you get to keep your apron and if you bring it back it is cheaper the second time around.

Victoria

Beechworth and The King Valley

Calendar of Events

La Dolce Vita - This explosion of all things good about Italy is actually on the 3rd weekend in November. Instead, in June on the long weekend, is Weekend Fit for a King, which is also pretty food, wine and fun focussed! More information available at www.winesofthekingvalley.com.au/home/events

Victoria

Daylesford and Macedon Region

Daylesford

• A Day on Earth Shed 4 Gallery: such a shame that this little gem is now closed. If you are passing through Melbourne, you can visit David Bromley's studio on Chapel Street by appointment. www.adayonearth.com.au

• The Lake House: Sadly, they no longer have the $50 menu on offer. Lunch is now from $76 A La Carte (2-4 courses). Tasting menu for dinner is from $80. www.lakehouse.com.au

• The Convent Gallery: The restaurant is called "Bad Habits Cafe" which is open for breakfast and lunch. The Alter Bar offers light snacks and an extensive wine list. www.conventgallery.com.au

• Frangos & Frangos: The gorgeous boutique hotel "Frangos" is now open. The casual bohemian Cafe KouKla is open 7 days and Frangos restaurant and Jimmy's Bar are open Thursday - Sunday. www.frangosandfrangos.com

• Hepburn Bathhouse & Spa: Entrance is now $26 Tues - Thur and $39 Fri - Mon & PH. The gorgeous "Chocolate Champagne Wrap" is $235 Tues - Thurs and $259 Fri - Mon & PH. www.hepburnbathhouse.com

• Lavandula Swiss Italian Lavender Farm: There has been a slight change to opening hours - Open daily except Wed & Thursday. Open daily during all school holidays (except 24, 25 & 26 Dec). Open weekends only June, July & August. www.lavandula.com.au

Kyneton

• Annie Smithers Bistrot: This delicious French fare restaurant proudly has One Chef's Hat from The Age, Good Food Guide 2012, not 2 Chef's Hat. Our mistake - we thought the food was that good! You can now book a masterclass with Annie herself in her kitchen garden in Malmsbury. Call Sarah on 0477 990 098 for bookings. 

Victoria

Great Ocean Road

Torquay

• Pettavel Winery and Restaurant: Shed a tear for the lovely Pettavel restaurant is currently closed pending the sale of the winery. The Cellar door is currently still open but best to call ahead to check.

Victoria

The Mornington Peninsula

Victoria

Yarra Valley

Healesville

• White Rabbit Brewery: Unfortunately due to growing popularity, tours are no longer available during the week. However with so many ales on offer we know you will have more than enough to keep you busy.
• Yarra Valley Railway: An adult ticket is now $15 and look out for the Halloween special "The Ghost Train" in October!
• Tarrawarra Estate: Sadly the picnic hampers are no longer available, however the restaurant is open from Tuesday - Sunday for lunch and has a great menu!

Yarra Glen

• Hargreaves Hill Brewing Company: The tasting paddle has increased slightly to $8 but still worth a try and a great way to get to know your beer!
• De Bortoli and Locale Restaurant: The cheese tasting now starts from $7 pp (minimum of 10 people), with many options available. Bookings are essential so make sure you phone ahead!
• Yering Station: We were one step ahead of ourselves "Matt's Bar" is located here on the upper level of the cellar door (not at Chateau Yering Historic House). With breathtaking views, great coffee and tasty cheese platters, why wouldn't you?

Cold Stream

• Yarra Yering: Tasting at the cellar door has increased to $10 (redeemable on purchase) and wines now start at $80 per bottle. If you are serious about your wine, this is the place to be.

Other Things to Do

• Balloon Sunrise: A sad sign of the times, Balloon Sunrise went into liquidation late last year. Support the other players to keep them in business! And of course experience this magical region from above. 
• Global Ballooning: What goes up must come down and in this case it is the breakfast price for non-flyers, now $30.
• Sebel Heritage: Is now the "Yarra Valley Lodge", unfortunately the golf course is for members only or guests staying at the Lodge. If you are still up for a visit, there is High Tea including a decadent dessert buffet ($45 pp on weekends) on offer to all.
  
• Driven Indulgence: Now offers the designated driver-only service (taking your own vehicle)from $300 for up to 8 hours, then $25 for each hour thereafter. What a great way to drink and drive!
• Winebus: Prices have increased to $110 pp. Four great wineries, one grape day!

Tasmania

Hobart and Surrounds

Hobart

• Daci & Daci Bakers: As you wander down to Constitution Dock, you’ll come across a little touch of Paris in the name of Daci & Daci Bakery. A worthwhile visit for good coffee and delicious brekkie and lunch – the berry yoghurt was delightfully decadent. While you’re there, pick up some unusual artisan loaves and an assortment of pastries for later. Très bon! 11 Murray St (03) 6224 9237
• Tavern 42degrees South: Set in a prime location right on the pier, it is the perfect spot to sit back, relax and watch the boats coming and going. Ok, it's slightly touristy but who could resist sucking back some fresh Tassie oysters or the smoked paprika cured salmon with that view! Elizabeth St Pier (03) 6224 7742 tav42.com.au
• Astor Grill: Between the CBD and Salamanca Place, the Art Deco Astor Grill doesn't disappoint. Rocky's locally sourced modern Australian cuisine and notable wine list certainly hits the mark and its cosy ambiance and outstanding service will leave you feeling like a VIP guest. 157 Macquarie St (03) 6234 3122 astorgrill.com.au
• Handmark Gallery: Flying the flag for talented Tasmanian artists and craftspeople, the Handmark Gallery is a triumph of creativity with unique sculpture, ceramics, jewellery and textiles to name a few on show. Leave with a keepsake to take home and treasure. 77 Salamanca Pl (03) 6223 7895 handmarkgallery.com
• The Henry Jones Hotel: Happy news is that the walking tour is now FREE! Although, don't expect your drink at the bar to be free too.... but it's still a lovely thing to do to ward off a thirst.
• The Mill on Morrison: A new take on tapas (including a Sundae Bar!), taste Tassie oysters in some crazy ways (grilled with leek and gruyere) and wash them down with a Tassie wine list that will not leave in wanting. 11 Morrison St (03) 6234 3490 www.themillonmorrison.com.au
• Sidecar: What this little bar lacks in size, it makes up for in cool. Smartly designed to take the overflow from waiting Garagistes patrons, it's a great little place for a glass of wine. Bar menu in the making. 129 Bathurst St (03) 6231 1338 www.garagistes.com.au
• Sweet Envy: If you are up in North Hobart, satisfy those sweet cravings at the much talked about dessert heaven. King of the kitchen Alistair Wise ran Gordon Ramsay's pastry kitchen in NYC so had to know what he was talking about - could the imagine Gordon's wrath otherwise. Imaginative names such as Crouching Strawberry Hidden Pandan....worth finding out what that's all about. 341 Elizabeth Street, North Hobart (03) 6234 8805 www.sweetenvy.com

Port Arthur

• Port Arthur Historic Site: Silver Pass is now $70pp, Ghost Tour is now $25pp (if you would like to include dinner purchase the After Dark pass for $69pp), Gold pass remains the same $100pp. www.portarthur.org.au

Richmond

• Ashmore on Bridge Street: This cute 1850’s corner shop has been lovingly restored into a quaint little cafe for brekkie and lunch (or dinner if you happen to be there on Tuesdays night). If tea is your tipple, taste one of their many unusual varieties on offer and the packaging alone will ensure you savour every sip. 34 Bridge St (03) 6260 2238 ashmoreonbridge.com.au
• Puddleduck Vineyard: The tasty cheese platter is now $18. All other details remain the same www.puddleduckvineyard.com.au

Huon Valley

• Grandvewe Cheesery: If you are keen on a bit of sheep milking, this is now at 3pm daily (and not 4.30pm).
• The Huon Jet: Prices have gone up to $75pp. All other details remain the same.
• The Wooden Boat Centre: Entry is now $8. All other details remain the same.

South Australia

The Adelaide Hills

South Australia

The Barossa Valley

Western Australia

Margaret River

Cape Naturaliste

• Cape Naturaliste Lighthouse: There has been a very small increase for the tour, it is now $13pp.

Yallingup

• Wildwood Valley: The cooking classes are extremely popular and already nearly sold out for the year. The price is now $130 for the full day cooking class. There are other options available so make sure you check them out www.wildwoodvalley.com.au

Northern Territory

Darwin and Surrounds