Frontier Events and Events Queensland in association with EMS Exhibits is bringing the internationally acclaimed and awardwinning exhibition CSI: The Experience to the Piazza Surfers Paradise this summer in the exhibition’s first ever visit to Australia. Following triumphs in the US, Europe and Asia, the exhibition – based on the multi award-winning hit television drama series CSI: The Experience – is now open to coast super-sleuths, inviting visitors to assume the role of a forensic detective to solve cases using scientific principles and techniques from the TV show.
Designed for visitors 11 years of age and older, the exhibition was developed in consultation with 175 forensic science experts, guiding visitors through a process closely copying the realities of crime scene investigation. Upon entering the exhibition, detectives are inducted into the realm of forensic science through a video introduction by Anthony E. Zuiker, the creator and executive producer of the television series. Real-life forensic scientist Ron Singer then briefly summarises the science to be found in the exhibit before CSI’s lead investigator Gil Grissom addresses the audience. With guidance in the form of video messages from the much-loved past and present characters from the television show, detectives are invited to present their findings to team supervisor Gil Grissom in his office in the hopes of solving the case. Successful detectives are rewarded with a personalised crime scene diploma upon cracking the case.
Detectives then travel through one of three intricately constructed crime scenes to identify and record evidence. State-of-the-art crime labs assist them to piece together evidence, whilst an autopsy room explains the process of pathology analysis.
Premier Anna Bligh welcomes the arrival of the exhibition: “this award-winning TV series has been watched in homes all over Queensland for years, and now the experience is being brought to life right here on the Gold Coast,” she says.
“The Queensland Government is investing in major events and exhibitions like this through Events Queensland because they attract visitors and help deliver the Gold Coast tourism industry the boost that it needs.
“The Gold Coast is a perfect destination for this exhibition, which is sure to be a hit among locals and tourists alike.”
Michael Gudinski, Director of Frontier Events says: “the success of the CSI television franchise has been phenomenal worldwide. Millions have been enthralled by the science behind solving crimes. I am delighted that Frontier Events is able to join with Events Queensland to bring CSI: The Experience to Surfers Paradise, where we anticipate locals and tourists alike will discover first-hand their inner CSIs.”
CSI: The Experience received the American Experience Industry’s Thea Award for Excellence in Innovation. The Thea Awards, considered the experience industry’s highest honour, recognise excellence in the creation of outstanding guest experiences.
The experience has taken off in Las Vegas, where it is a permanent set-up, and has also toured through New York, Europe and Asia. This is the first time it will be setting up camp in Australia and Surfers Paradise’s playground will be the host.
For more information and to buy tickets, visit www.ticketek.com.au/csi
Holiday fever is running hot at Hyatt Regency Sanctuary Cove with its Christmas Lunch Buffet at Cove Café on December 11 and 18. For $55 per person, enjoy traditional Yuletide fare (including dessert!) and the smooth sounds of Mat Stokes in beautiful surroundings. Christmas Eve sees carollers performing at the venue too. For more information, visit www.sanctuarycove.regencyhyatt.com.
The d’Arcy Doyle Art Awards 2011 and exhibition runs until December 18 at Mudgeeraba Foundation Centre Gallery, 7 School St. Over 300 works by artists from across Australia will be on display for the competition, which was created to honour the late Queensland artist d’Arcy Doyle and to encourage emerging artists. The exhibition is open from 10am – 6pm daily with free admission, and the People’s Choice Award will be presented at 2pm on December 18. For more information, visit darcydoyleartawards.com.au.
QPAC has a catalogue of Christmassy offerings to keep kids and adults alike occupied over the school holidays and spread some seasonal cheer. As part of the Fairy Tales and Fantasy program presented by Queensland Ballet, Swan Lake will be performed from December 3-21 at the Playhouse, with tickets priced from $50-$84. December 9 and 10 sees festive extravaganza Spirit of Christmas hit the Concert Hall, with tickets priced between $22 to $35, and Charlie and Lola’s Best Bestest Play is set to keep kids entertained from December 14-18 at the Cremorne Theatre. Ticket prices vary from $29.90-$35.
Ring in 2012 in style at SkyPoint Observation Deck, with fabulous live entertainment and delicious food at the most exclusive New Year's Eve celebration on the Gold Coast. Tickets cost $120 per person, which includes entry to the observation deck, a glass of Innocent Bystander’s Pink Moscato, delicious food and dessert options plus the best fireworks views on offer. Entertainment will be provided by Local duo Sugar Fix and the SkyPoint resident DJ. To book, call 5582 2740 or visit www.skypoint.com.au.
Tickets are now on sale for Sofitel Broadbeach’s Moulin Rouge-inspired New Year’s Eve celebration, A French Cabaret Affair. Held at the hotel’s signature restaurant Room81, the event includes live entertainment from Boogielicious and cancan dancers and a six-course menu with accompanying wines created by awardwinning chef Michael Crosbie. Tickets cost $250 and can be booked by calling 5570 0396.
Mickey’s Music Festival arrives at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre on January 6 and 7. The all-star headliners include Mickey & Minnie Mouse, Donald and Goofy, Ariel, Sebastian and Ursula, Jasmine, Aladdin and Genie and Woody, Buzz and Jessie, with more than 25 stars taking to the stage. The show will see Disney hits remixed to the hottest sounds of today – a live concert experience where kids can dance and to hot songs they all know. Ticket prices start at $29.50 or $105 for a family pass, with tickets available from www.ticketek.com.au.
The Insure My Ride Le Minz 24 Hour Scooterthon, presented by TGB Scooters and the Australian Scooter Festival, is held from 12pm on December 17-18 at the Gold Coast Parklands as a prelude to the Australian Scooter Festival, which will be held at the Gold Coast Convention and Exhibition Centre from February 17-19. Entry is free to watch entrants from across Australia tackle the tricky terrain by scooter.
The Australasian New Car Assessment Program (ANCAP) recently handed down a mixed bag of crash test results, ranging from the maximum five-star rating to a disappointing two-star rating. The Indian-made Mahindra Pik-Up was the worst performer in the latest round of crash testing, earning a twostar crashworthiness rating. The Pik-Up, fitted with dual front airbags, matches the Chinese-built Great Wall V240 at the bottom end of the safety scale.
The only lower-ranking vehicles according to ANCAP currently on sale are the Proton Jumbuck and the Mitsubishi Express, which both score just one star.
The Chinese-built $11,990 Geely MK – a small sedan currently only sold in Western Australia – was awarded a three-star result, putting it on par with its compatriot the $10,990 Chery J1, and the $11,990 Proton S16.
ANCAP does not recommend buying vehicles with less than a four-star crashworthiness rating. Performing better was the Nissan Micra light hatch, and the Citroen Berlingo and Renault Kangoo small vans. All three achieved a four-star safety rating when tested by ANCAP’s sister program, Euro NCAP. The Audi A6 and the BMW X3 led by example, both receiving the maximum five-star crashworthiness result when tested by Euro NCAP.
ANCAP Chair Lauchlan McIntosh says although the majority of new cars sold in Australia come with a strong safety recommendation, it is important for consumers to take a look at each vehicle’s safety rating before settling on a purchase. “These results show that, while we are seeing an increasing number of fivestar vehicles in Australia, there are still new cars coming onto the market with considerably lower ratings which provide less crash protection for drivers and passengers,” Mr McIntosh said.
“While motorists have a wide range of models available at different pricing points – and at different safety levels irrespective of price – the ANCAP safety assessment is a vital and valuable aid in the selection of a new car.”
ANCAP is supported by all Australian and New Zealand motoring clubs, the Australian Government, the New Zealand Government, all Australian state governments, the Victorian Transport Accident Commission, NRMA Insurance and the FIA Foundation.
For a full list of ANCAP’s vehicle safety ratings and other vehicle safety information, go to www.ancap.com.au.
A significant increase in pedestrian fatalities on Queensland’s roads over the past year should serve as a warning to pedestrians to behave responsibly when on or near roads, the RACQ says.
Preliminary statistics from Queensland’s Department of Transport and Main Roads show that pedestrian fatalities are currently 52.9 per cent higher than at the same time last year.
RACQ Senior Road Safety Advisor Joel Tucker said pedestrians had a responsibility to avoid unnecessary risks. “Pedestrians should be alert and cautious at all times when on or near roads,” he said.
“Alcohol can affect a pedestrian’s ability to make good decisions, so mates need to look out for one another and make sure they all get home safely – preferably in a taxi or courtesy bus, or with a designated driver.” Australian Transport Council research has found that approximately 40 per cent of pedestrians killed nationally had a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) higher than 0.05 and three quarters of these had a blood alcohol concentration of more than 0.15.
“RACQ research shows that pedestrians rely heavily on their hearing to identify the presence and speed of nearby vehicles,” Joel said. “People shouldn’t use mobile phones and portable music players when crossing roads, as this can reduce their awareness of approaching vehicles. “Pedestrians are vulnerable road users with very little to no protection. Just as drivers should try to minimise distractions when on the road so, too, should pedestrians.”
Back in the sixties and seventies, holidays were all about packing up the car or caravan and making the most of the beautiful Australian scenery we are blessed with. Myriad holiday trends have since been and gone, but now the humble caravan is reliving its heyday and drawing in a whole new generation of holidaymakers who just can’t get enough of holidaying on the open road.
“Caravanning is definitely enjoying a retro revival,” says Bill Morley, owner and operator of Getaway Caravan & Camper Hire, Worongary. “The children from this generation have fond memories of their caravan holidays, and now want their own children to have the same experience of packing up the car and caravan and taking a road trip to a beachside or bush destination. You also have the empty nesters that are enjoying their freedom and exploring everything our amazing country offers, all in their own time.”
There are a number of reasons, Bob explains, why the caravan is making a comeback: “the desire for people to holiday at home is a big one, alongside the quality of caravans available for people either to buy or hire, which often include all mod cons like leather interiors, LCD Televisions, gas cooking, washing machine, air conditioning and iPod docks. Also, many caravan parks are of an excellent standard, offering great facilities for the whole family. “Caravanning offers the freedom to explore and discover Australia’s natural wonders in your own time with family and friends, as well as enjoying activities like fishing, swimming and bushwalking in the great outdoors. Caravanning holidays also tend to more social and you can make new friends along the way.”
But before you get carried away, Bill has a word of warning – “do try caravanning before you splash out on your own caravan, and the best way to do that is to hire a caravan first. Give us a call at Getaway Caravan and Camper Hire, and we can help you with that.”
Visit www.getawaycaravancamperhire.com.au to find out more about caravan holidays.
Rhianne Muir experiences new heights of luxury at the newly refurbished surfers paradise marriott resort and spa.
A whopping $30 million has been pumped into the all-encompassing refurbishment of one of the Coast’s most iconic resorts, Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa, and with even the quickest whistle-stop tour, it’s clear that it has been a case of money very well spent.
With the resort boasting 28 levels and 329 rooms, this has been a makeover of epic proportions, with each and every room receiving its own touch of TLC. There have also been extensive improvements to the fixtures and fittings across the hotel, lobby area, front area, lagoon ool, conference and events floor and the resort’s all new interactive restaurant, Citrique.
The refurbishment has also seen an upgrade to the function rooms on the state-of-the-art events floor, exclusively set aside for conferences, weddings and special events. The hotel even boasts its own creative design team to give events that extra special touch. During our visit we take a sneaky peek at the reception hall of a wedding to be held later that day, the decadent decoration testament to the fact that experts really do make a difference when it comes to adding a touch of class to the big day.
With the remodelling of each guest room a key aspect of the refurbishment, we are keen to see what all the fuss is about, so head up (and up!) to the junior suite we’ll be spending the night in. Located sky-high on level 27 – second only to the bespoke presidential suite on the top floor, no less – this spacious room features a huge, plush bed (accompanied by a pillow menu!) a huge LED TV, swanky soft furnishings and a host of stylish fittings. Add to that the huge, lavish bathroom featuring the jewel in the five-star crown – a raised spa bath surrounded by full length windows offering views of the glitter strip and the ocean – and its clear that the Marriott is serious about staking it’s claim as the Coast’s finest in luxury accommodation.
With three different room types – the standard room, junior suite and executive suite - all boasting the hotel’s signature stunning beach, skyline and Hinterland views, groups of all sizes and needs are catered for at the resort. Boasting a contemporary look with neutral colours and accents of coral with furniture inspired by modern Queensland coastal charm, these rooms exude chic as well as comfort.
We are lucky enough to have access to the Elandra Retreat Club, which is available to guests staying in the Elandra Retreat Club suites on the top four floors of the hotel. A luxurious, contemporary lounge with ocean and resort views, the retreat offers complimentary food and beverages throughout the day, playing host to a fully stocked self-service kitchen and coffee machine.
Located on the 27th floor, the space is open to eligible guests from morning until night for snacks, alongside fresh morning and afternoon tea and evening canapés, which we tuck into with what can only be described as greedy gusto! We feast on bubbly, Australian cheeses, a selection of cured meets and fresh canapés before heading downstairs for a hotly-anticipated dinner at Citrique. Recently refurbished to provide patrons with the ultimate interactive dining experience, Citrique is where the Marriott really comes into its own, bringing food to life with open-plan kitchens, eager chefs and attentive staff, all creating a truly personalised dining experience. With eight international culinary concepts and four food zones – cold for seafood, salads and sushi and hot for soups, curries and stir fries (to name but a few), alongside the roast and dessert sections – Citrique leaves diners spoilt for choice. We enjoy an impressive smorgasbord of super-fresh seafood before heading to the made-to-order risotto station to watch the chef rustle up Citrique’s signature risotto with chorizo, squid, black rice and a host of other gourmet goodies. Yum! Tender roast pork, sweet potato and chilli soup and delicious Asian delicacies also feature on our piled-high plates.
Citrique is sensationally stylish whilst also being family friendly and atmospheric. With white walls and stainless steel the atmosphere is cool and sophisticated, but superb design and thoughtful accents and accessories – not to mention a roaring wood-fired pizza oven – add an undeniable homeliness and accessibility to the restaurant. Whether opting for the à la carte menu or getting spoilt for choice with the buffet, Citrique makes for an unforgettable – and delicious – dining experience. Java Plus, a grab and go-style deli, the luxurious lobby lounge bar and the renowned Benihana Japanese Steakhouse are also on hand for foodies to enjoy, meaning that guests and visitors alike are never left pondering the eternal question of what to have for dinner.
After a fantastic night’s sleep we wake up early to make the most of the morning, firstly heading down to the luxurious Lattouf Hair & Day Spa for a sauna and steam room session. The perfect hideaway for a spot of rest and relaxation, the spa encompasses gorgeous modern spa rooms, a fully-equipped hair salon, several treatment rooms and a gym. Bliss.
A relaxed trip to the pool follows suit,, where we take advantage of the resort’s unique artificial reef to check out the resident fish. Backing out onto its own marina, the huge lagoon area really is a haven within a haven, with snack huts, luxurious cabanas, a waterfall and caves to keep kids and big kids (including us!) alike satisfied.
We leave the resort feeling like we’ve been on an extended holiday… no mean feat considering that we have, in, fact, only spent 24 hours at a resort ten minutes down the road from home. Now that’s what I call a makeover!
For more information on the Surfers Paradise Marriott Resort & Spa, visit www.marriott.com.au.
Conversely, there are areas of the world that, although quite safe for travellers, create an aura of self-doubt and confidence when dealing with language, culture and the tyranny of distance from the comforts of Western civilization. These destinations offer a smorgasbord of sights, sounds and people, sure to appeal to any person wanting to get off the beaten track.
These countries or areas of the world are very much available to discerning travellers in the form of small group packages.
Bob and Beth Malcolm, joint managing directors of Travel Masters, have devoted the past 30 years to producing tours aimed at whims of this travel-savvy demographic.
Travel Masters, long acknowledged as one of the leaders in small group travel, understands these attitudes and expectations. During the last three decades, they have fine-tuned travel experiences to exotic locations to the point where the services and comforts on trips are as close to what one would get at home, even though the actual location could be as remote as far western Kashgar in China or the Amazon River.
So, why choose a small group tour?
The primary reason for choosing a small group option to somewhere like the Silk Road and Tibet is the security in numbers and the participation of a qualified and professional tour escort who has been there before! Throw in a national guide alongside local guides who join in each city or region and you have the absolute best in both local and international travel expertise. The stress often associated with airports, railway stations and other mass transit options is also heavily reduced with escort and guides.
You get to enjoy regions that you might hesitate to venture alone or with your partner. You meet similar travellers who share the same passion for exploring the more remote and exotic parts of our world… and you do it with the support and experience of a company that has been there and done that many, many times. Let’s take a look at some of the destinations discerning travellers are still keen to explore, experience and enjoy.
South America – Departing in May each year, you’ll fly over the mystical Nazca Lines of Peru, sail down the Amazon on a traditionally designed riverboat, walk into the mist of Iguassu Falls, climb to magnificent Machu Picchu and experience the famed cities of Rio de Janiero and Buenos Aires.
Silk Road and Tibet – Departing in August each year, you’ll stop in romantic oasis towns along the fabled Silk Road, climb the western end of the Great Wall, attend the largest livestock market in Kashgar, ride the highest railway in the world and stand on the rooftop of the world in Tibet.
Africa and Egypt – Another August departure, you’ll visit Amboseli, Samburu, the Great Rift Valley and Masai Mara – the world’s best game reserves. Cruise the legendary Nile River for seven days and take in Giza, Luxor Edfu and Aswan. For 2012, two groundbreaking trips have been released - in August 2012 Bob and Beth will embark on a cruise that explores the unique region of Canada’s northwest Passage, While in February 2012, you can explore the ancient Kingdom of Bhutan and, for the first time, cruise India’s Brahmaputra River on a brand new vessel.
Informative brochures are available on all these tours. Contact Travel Masters at Nerang Ph 555 42 777, The Travel Studio at Mermaid Waters Ph 5572 7272, or Lifestyle Travel at Coolangatta Ph 5599 2929.
The Varsity Lakes Sports House, an innovative purpose-built facility designed to encourage community participation in sports, has officially opened to the public on the shores of Lake Orr due to a unique partnership between the public and private sectors in the hope of creating a legacy to benefit local residents.
First proposed in 2001 due to a lack of storage space for local groups and clubs, the Sports House has been created through a union between the Gold Coast City Council and Land Lease. The 1.15 hectare block of land was purchased by the Council in 2010, with these funds used by Land Lease towards construction of the facility, which will now be managed by the Varsity Lakes Community Limited (VLCL), a not-for-profit community group which will ensure that the income raised goes back into the facility to provide services to the local community. The $4.5m facility has space for fitness and recreation programs, commercial spaces for offices and muchneeded storage space for local boating organisations. With its huge storage facility The Boat Shed and splendid views over Lake Orr and surrounding communities, the site is set to become the ideal location for Coasters of all ages to participate in outdoors sports.
Councillor Jan Grew, who has also contributed divisional funds to the project, says the opening of Sports House is the realisation of the public and private sector working together to achieve great outcomes for the community. “It’s been tremendous to have this support from Land Lease and Council. It’s been a long time coming, and the Sports House is going to support a huge number of people in this community who want to utilise the beautiful Lake Orr,” she says.
“This facility will have a significant impact on the community’s wellbeing, giving sports clubs, students and the general public a superb venue for sporting and recreational pursuits, and Sports House will enable 1000 people a week to be socially and physically active through activities like dragon boating, sailing and kayaking.”
There are already numerous sporting groups taking advantage of the facility’s boat storage facilities, including the Special Olympics sailing team and the Gold Coast Dragon Boating Club, with the first dragon boat regatta set to take place on October 23.
With the silly season fast approaching,Gold Coast VIP services company Key to the Coast is gearing up to provide Coasters with a safe way to experience Surfers Paradise nightlife, with all the VIP trimmings included. We all know how daunting it can be trying to book your airport pick up, accommodation and activities before travelling, and Key to the Coast can organise all these details, starting with a Superstretch Hummer or Chrysler pick up from the airport to accommodation pre-booked by the company. These limousines are state of the art, with fully stocked bars available on request, massive sound systems, great laser shows, plasma TVs and external cameras.
These vehicles are also available for Key to the Coast’s range of nightlife activities perfect for special occasions, including full- hosted Vegas-style limousine nightclub tours, bar and restaurant tours, casino nights, ladies nights and our exclusive gents nights.
Key to the Coast VIP Nightclub Access Passes, all you need to experience the gold coast nightlife with your friends and family. Experienced drivers, hosts, bodyguards and co-ordinators will ensure a safe, fun night out.
“We find quality assured businesses to work in conjunction with to assure everyone a safe night out,” explains Key to the Coast owner Gareth Davies, who has a background in hotel management. “We can organise everything for the perfect going out experience.”
Key to the Coast also organises motorcycle scooter and jetski hire, jetboat rides, parasailing and transfers to the Gold Coast theme parks. For more information on Key to the Coast, visit www.keytothecoastgc.com or call 55045166.
When it comes down to basics, it’s all about performance. Our favourite Aussie jocks now use high-tech fabrics and new construction to ensure breathability, support, flexibility and now, quick dry properties, and are a must for any man this summer.
Bonds is launching its new men’s Quick Dry Trunk ($26.95) for summer. The innovative trunk is perfect for sport, under board shorts, for the gym, swimming and outdoor work, and is made from a special lightweight lycra that feels like swimwear with no sagging, clinging or chaffing.
Bonds Ambassador Pat Rafter is joined by the new Bonds Active Model, surfer Perth Standlick, to launch the new Quick Dry Campaign for summer.
Holeproof Explorers – the number one name in socks – has moved into underwear with the new Explorer Base Layers and Extreme range in trunks, briefs and singlets ($14.95). Flat seams prevent chafing and the fabrication is durable to ensure dryness and comfort in even the most rugged conditions.
Jockey has launched a range of performance and fashionable everyday offerings. Ambasasdor and Aussie cricketer Mitchell Johnson is wearing the new Hoops style ($26.95), a rugby-striped cotton trunk.
Grundies was established by Tony Vass, whose vision was to create comfortable and stylish underwear brand at wholesale prices. Available online at www.grundies.com.au, Grundies come in all shapes, sizes and quirky designs. Coolangatta Gold Champion and Kellogg’s Nutri Grain Ironman Caine Eckstein has been signed for three years as the face of Grundies.
A report by Dun & Bradstreet reveals that the number of Australian firms paying their bills more than three months late has jumped 20 percent, and that two-thirds are taking longer than the standard 30-day period to pay company accounts.
The Dun & Bradstreet Trade Payment Analysis states national payment terms reaching 53.4 days during the June quarter 2011, while the number of severely delinquent payments - those 90 days or more overdue - jumped almost 20 percent compared with the June quarter 2010.
Dun & Bradstreet CEO Christine Christian says the continuing high rate of delinquency is concerning given the importance of trade credit to the health of the nation’s economy. “Individual businesses are the unsung bankers of our economy,” she states. “Business-to-business lending through the extension of trade credit amounts to billions of dollars a year. The rate at which these micro-loans are being paid back is a key indicator of the health of Australian businesses.”
According to Chris Page from debt resolution firm iCollect, SMEs are suffering in the present climate, hamstrung by a lack of cash flow.
“We are seeing a rise in the number of businesses relying on a professional debt resolution partner”, he says. “It’s a convenient, cost-effective solution. Using a professional third party to mediate between the two parties removes some of the barriers that two individuals may have developed, diffuses any conflict, and allows an organisation to focus on running their business, not chasing debtors.”
The iCollect receivables management program is designed to help businesses improve efficiencies in their credit and accounts receivable functions, thereby optimising cash flow.
“We manage receivables by acting as part of the business,” explains Chris. “We can monitor the accounts receivable ledger, follow up late payments and act on your behalf before an account becomes a problem to help you avoid the need for collection services. We can, however, convert a receivable to debt collection if required. Our account specialists work with businesses to ensure that we uphold your brand, and on the retention of clients.”
It’s a “firm but friendly” technique, he says. “We are focusing on retention of clients for a business, not just payment of that one invoice. We use our negotiation skills, the correct, objective terminology and compassion to get to the fundamentals of the issues and work out arrangements to suit both parties.”
To date, iCollect has had great success in managing the accounts for various firms across a broad range of industries, including but not limited to the IT sector, advertising and wholesalers.
“I am often surprised at how many businesses place a job as important as this in the hands of an inexperienced accounts receivables person,” observes Chris. “The accounts receivable function of a business ensures its life blood – its cash flow – is maintained.” Find out more at www.i-collect.com.au.
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