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Australia Inland Botanical Gardens

Parks and Gardens

Australian Inland Botanic Gardens

Australia's most unique Botanic Gardens, a prime example of what community spirit can achieve, is on display at the Australian Inland Botanic Gardens (AIBG). Set on 50 acres the plantings showcase Australian arid and exotic flora, including a rose garden featuring over 1,600 colour coordinated bushes. Visitors can enjoy a tractor-train tour through the gardens every Saturday at select times or by appointment. Garnpang Homestead and coffee shop is open daily, so relax over coffee or lunch and browse through a selection of handcrafted gifts. On the fourth Saturday of each month is a sumptuous breakfast made by talented volunteers. The AIBG has opened a Children's Garden. It comprises play equipment made from recycled materials. made by volunteers which include school students. This is a place to play in a natural environment. There is a cubby house, sand pit and musical instruments. There is no entrance fee, but a donation for the garden's maintenance is welcome.

Buronga NSW

Sportex

Landmarks and Buildings

Australian Institute of Sport

Go behind the scenes on an award-winning 90-minute guided tour of Australia's premier elite sports precinct, the Australian Institute of Sport (AIS), located minutes from the Canberra city centre. Discover where Australia’s sporting champions are created and gain an insight into the life of their leading athletes. Included is a visit to Sportex, one of Australia's leading interactive sports exhibits, set amongst a first-class collection of sporting memorabilia. Try wheelchair basketball, virtual downhill skiing, rock climbing, football penalty shootouts and more. Great fun for all ages and athletic abilities. Be sure to visit the Australian Institute of Sport Shop whilst you are there, where you can shop like a champion for exclusive AIS merchandise and refuel at the AIS cafe. Guided public tours depart daily from the AIS Visitor Centre, see the website for further details. Now with the Canberra Mega Pass, you can take your Canberra trip to the next level. Take a tour of the Australian Institute of Sport, encounter animals at the National Zoo & Aquarium, and get curious at Questacon, Australia’s National Science & Technology Centre. The Canberra Mega Pass is available to book now.

Bruce ACT

Australian Jazz Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Jazz Museum

Discover the heartbeat of Australia's jazz legacy at the Australian Jazz Museum, a vibrant tribute to the nation's rich jazz history. Located in Wantirna, the museum invites music enthusiasts and curious visitors to explore a world of rhythm and melody. The Australian Jazz Museum boasts an impressive collection focusing solely on Australian contributions to jazz. Its extensive archive includes over 100,000 Australian artifacts, encompassing everything from rare disc recording and CDs to fascinating memorabilia including posters, books and musical instruments. This collection not only celebrates Australia's jazz pioneers but also highlights the country's enduring influence on the global jazz stage. Visitors can delve into the evocative displays and exhibitions that breathe life into Australia's extraordinary jazz heritage. The Museum also proudly preserves the Australian Jazz Convention's historic collection, a treasure trove dating back to 1946, offering a unique glimpse into the evolution of jazz over the decades. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or new to the genre, the Australian Jazz Museum promises an inspiring journey through sound and history. Celebrate the vibrant culture of jazz and explore the stories that have shaped the music loved by all today. The Museum is open every Tuesday and Wednesday. Private guided group tours are available by appointment. The Museum is now available to view online at the Virtual Museum. You can access this via the Museum website.

Wantirna VIC

Australian Kelpie Centre — Image credit: Casterton Visitor Information Centre

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Kelpie Centre

Casterton is celebrated as the birthplace of the kelpie working dog. Visitors can explore the newly constructed, all-purpose Australian Kelpie Centre. This facility is located on Henty Street, situated in the heart of the Kelpie Trail. The centre provides several valuable services. It houses the local Visitor Information Centre for tourist assistance and souvenir purchases. Meeting spaces and amenities are available for public use. A highlight for visitors is the interpretive display. This exhibit showcases the fascinating history and heritage of the kelpie working dog breed.

Casterton VIC

Australian Light Horse Heritage Collection

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Light Horse Heritage Collection

Displaying a collection of light horse memorabilia, much of which graciously bequeathed by the (late) Ian Jones. Ian Jones was an author, expert Ned Kelly historian, Australian screen and television writer and director (including that of ‘The Lighthorsemen’ film 1987). The Australian Light Horse and Heritage Collected owner Dave, now has the honour of displaying these precious items for the public to admire. Transcribes reveal a fascinating account of the remarkable journey our fellow troopers undertook and displays include a tunic from a Charger at Beersheba and another tunic from a 4th Light Horse Regiment member illustrated in Ian’s book, A Thousand Miles of Battles.

Dunkeld VIC

Australian Museum exterior — Image credit: Australian Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Museum

Step into a world of wonder at the Australian Museum, located in the heart of Sydney. With free general entry, it is a must-visit destination for the curious at heart. Founded in 1827, it is Australia's first museum and has over 22 million scientific specimens and cultural objects in its collections. Experience the rich traditions of Australia's First Nations Salt Water Peoples in Garrigarrang. Learn about the knowledge systems and sustainable practices used for countless generations that helped Australia's First Nations peoples become one of the oldest continuous living cultures on the planet. Journey back in time and walk among real dinosaur skeletons and life-sized models of prehistoric creatures, including the Australian Muttaburrasaurus and the world's first-ever anatomically correct replica of a T.rex. Young adventurers will love the Museum's award-winning, immersive learning and play space, where they can explore the world through the eyes of a burra (eel). Filled with interactive play zones and hands-on discovery, it's fun for the whole family. Refuel and recharge with a range of dining options at the Australian Museum, from lunch with a view over Hyde Park at Bistro Gadi to casual, family-friendly fare at Billabong Waterhole café.

Sydney NSW

Australian Museum Diprotodon Exhibition

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Museum Diprotodon Exhibition

The Australian Museum Diprotodon Exhibition is housed at the Coonabarabran Visitor Information Centre, conveniently located on the Newell Highway at the southern end of town. The exhibition displays the skeleton and skull of a Diprotodon, the largest marsupial ever to have lived. It is often likened to a giant-sized wombat. The remains of the Diprotodon were found in the creek bed of Cox's Creek near Tambar Springs in 1979. The exhibition also provides information on another megafauna that were believed to have existed at around the same time. Free guided tours of the display are available for groups with advance notice. Please contact the Coonabarabran Visitor Information Centre for more information. There is also an area located in the Museum which showcases artwork from local artists, as well as the Aboriginal Keeping Place.

Coonabarabran NSW

Brough House

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Museum of Clothing and Textiles

Based in Maitland, the Museum of Clothing (AMCAT) was established in 2005 and is Australia's only dedicated clothing museum containing a substantial collection of textile items including dresses, hats, shoes and ties ranging from as early as 1860 to the present day. AMCAT’s mission is to collect, conserve, document and display the history and heritage, of clothing and textiles from Australia’s earliest times to the present day. The collection is a source of knowledge, ideas, stories and memories, and is a focus of community education and engagement. The collection is developed and managed as a community resource, to inspire, educate and inform the community and visitors, and to contribute to the conservation of the history and heritage of textiles and clothing. Open to the public throughout the year, the Museum of Clothing is a not-for-profit organisation operated by a dedicated team of volunteers, with the common goal of preserving the history of the clothing and textile industry.

Maitland NSW

Australian Museum of Performing Arts

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Museum of Performing Arts

The Australian Museum of Performing Arts (AMPA) is Arts Centre Melbourne's newest venue. Unveiling treasured objects from circus, dance, music, opera, theatre and popular entertainment, the Australian Museum of Performing Arts brings untold stories of the stage to life through major exhibitions. The museum will showcase highlights from Australia's extraordinary performing arts history, found in the Australian Performing Arts Collection, and the very best from international museums and galleries. Every exhibition is a love letter to the performing arts.

Melbourne VIC

Mist in rainforest

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian National Botanic Gardens

Escape from the city in this beautiful collection of Australian plants at the Australian National Botanic Gardens, located minutes from the hustle and bustle of the Canberra City Centre. Offering a breathtaking array of native plants in a spectacular bushland setting, this is the only place in the world you’ll see this diversity of Australian native plants in one location.

Acton ACT

Australian National Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre Gallery

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian National Botanic Gardens Visitor Centre Gallery

Meander through the diverse gardens and landscapes of the Australian National Botanic Gardens, then step inside the Visitor Centre Gallery and enjoy an exhibition exploring the Australian environment through fine art, craft, photography and sculpture. With an ever-changing exhibition program, there's always something new to see at the Gardens' Visitor Centre Gallery.

Acton ACT

museum waterfront

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian National Maritime Museum

Spectacularly located at the waterfront of Darling Harbour, the Maritime Museum is a distinctive indoor/outdoor attraction and great entertainment for the whole family. The museum has one of the largest and most diverse in-water fleets in the world, including the cold war submarine HMAS Onslow, naval destroyer HMAS Vampire, and the stunning replica of Captain Cook's tall ship HMB Endeavour. Explore the danger and drama of military life at sea inside the interactive Action Stations experience that shows the inner workings of the Royal Australian Navy like never before. The museum also hosts six permanent galleries, and an ever-changing program of temporary exhibitions, ensuring something for everyone. When it is time for a break, treat yourself at the waterfront Ripples Cafe or picnic at the tables on the Waterfront Boardwalk. The museum offers a range of facilities and services for people with disability, such as Auslan-interpreted programs for the Deaf community and programs such as descriptive touch tours for visitors with vision impairment.

Darling Harbour NSW

Exhibition Space

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian National Surfing Museum

The Australian National Surfing Museum Torquay celebrates the history of surfing in Australia. It tells the story of this countries rich beach culture and surfing heritage that has developed over the last one hundred years. Explore Australia’s favourite pastime - visitors can relive time spent at the beach, or discover the intimate link between surfers and the breaking waves. Find out about surfing hero's and legends in The Australian Surfing Hall of Fame, which celebrates the lives of Australian surfing champions. You can check out their biographies mounted on a typical example of the board they rode. Enjoy spectacular footage of surfers in action while you are surrounded by vintage surf memorabilia and an epic array of historic surfboards. Trace the development of the surfboard along the boardwalk as a breaking wave looms overhead. Explore the many elements that go to make up surf culture, clothes, movies, music, and walk through the ultimate surf mobile, the VW kombi van. Whether you are eight or eighty eight, at the Australian National Surfing Museum Torquay you can ride a wave of history and discover how awesome and inspirational surfing can be. For updates or further information please check the website.

Torquay VIC

Butterfly Brooch featuring South Australin opals . — Image credit: Australian opal and diamond collection

Shopping and Markets

Australian Opal and Diamond Collection

Australian opal and Diamond collection is located in Adelaide, South Australia, where the majority of Australian Opals are Mined. Field as such as Coober Pedy Andamooka and Mintabie produce spectacular world class Opal gemstones. From Mining, Wholesalers, exporters and manufacturing jewellers, producing high Quality and affordable Opal, diamond and Pearl Jewellery. One on one and tourist groups are welcome to experience the VIP demonstration and education on Australia's National Gemstone.

Adelaide SA

Australian Black Opal Ring with Diamonds — Image credit: Australian Opal Cutters Pty Ltd

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Opal Cutters

Australian Opal Cutters is one of Sydney's leading Australian opal destinations, offering visitors the opportunity to discover, learn about and purchase genuine Australian opals directly from a fourth-generation family business established in 1967. Located in the heart of Sydney's CBD, they specialise exclusively in natural Australian opals and handcrafted opal jewellery. Visitors can explore one of Australia's largest collections of certified Australian opals and opal jewellery, including Black Opal from Lightning Ridge, Boulder Opal from Queensland, Crystal Opal and White Opal. Their experienced team explains how opals are mined, graded, valued and crafted into fine jewellery, while our on-site workshop showcases traditional opal cutting and jewellery manufacturing. Whether you're looking for a unique Australian souvenir, an engagement ring, investment-quality opal, custom-designed jewellery, or simply want to experience Australia's most famous gemstone, Australian Opal Cutters offers an authentic and educational visitor experience. Guests can browse thousands of genuine Australian opals, learn about Australia's opal mining heritage, and work with their jewellers to create a personalised piece that will last a lifetime. Conveniently located near Town Hall Station, Australian Opal Cutters is recognised by visitors from around the world as one of Sydney's premier destinations for genuine Australian opals, custom jewellery and expert opal knowledge.

Sydney NSW

The museum displays the history of child welfare in Australia. — Image credit: Care Leavers Australasia Network

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Orphanage Museum

The only one of its kind in Australia, the Australian Orphanage Museum (AOM) is dedicated to exhibiting the authentic accounts of people who grew up in Orphanages, Children's Homes and Foster Care in Australia. Established by the Care Leavers Australasia Network (CLAN) in 2001, the museum started as a small collection of objects and memorabilia to tell the true stories of vulnerable people that endured a dark chapter in Australian history. The museum now comprises over 2,000 items, and CLAN is always looking for new donations of photos and artefacts to further share the stories of Care Leavers and preserve this history for future generations. The museum's diverse exhibits explore three continuing themes: The History of Child Welfare in Australia, The Children's Voices, and Care Leavers Activism. The narratives are presented in ways that respect the rights of Care Leavers to present their own accounts and tell their experience of growing up in institutions. The museum has an extensive library which includes 760 books plus videos, audio cassettes, media articles, reports, theses, manuals and other research documents. Group bookings are welcomed by appointment. The museum is in central Geelong and there is a bus stop out the front. There is also street parking nearby.

Geelong VIC

Opal cutting at Australian Outback Opals — Image credit: Australian Outback Opals

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Outback Opals

Australian Outback Opals is a family-owned business specialising in Australian opals and handcrafted opal jewellery. They provide a full range of services including opal cutting, jewellery repairs, and custom-made jewellery design and manufacture. All opal cutting is completed in-house, they manage custom orders and repairs, as well as for creating beautiful bespoke pieces by their talented jeweller. They offer jewellery in gold, platinum, sterling silver and titanium, including rings, pendants, earrings, bracelets, bangles and cuff links. Their opal stock includes triplets, doublets and solid opals sourced from Australian Opal Fields such as Lightning Ridge/ White Cliffs (NSW), Coober Pedy/Andamooka/Mintabie (SA), and Winton/Quilpie/Yowah (QLD). They also sell opal carvings, rough opal specimens, fossils, souvenirs along with gold and silver chains. Their target market includes local customers seeking jewellery repairs or custom-made pieces, along with domestic and international tourists looking for authentic Australian opal products, souvenirs, and uniquely crafted jewellery. Opal is believed to bring love, luck and happiness to those who give and those who receive! Besides opal, they also offer a range of Australian Sapphire Jewellery, from the traditional deep royal blues to the fancy stone colours and along with a range of beautiful Black Pearl jewellery. They are conveniently located at 1 Eagle Heights Road, Tamborine Mountain, next door to The Forest Cafe, The Mountain Scoop and Tall Trees Motel.

Tamborine Mountain QLD

Australian Outback Spectacular - Horses

Amusement and Theme Parks

Australian Outback Spectacular's Heartland

Australian Outback Spectacular's Heartland takes guests on a journey to the outback, through a transformative arena, immersive projection mapping, mesmerising animals and true Australian characters. Delve into the gripping tale of two struggling Aussie farmers, Reg and Marge, and rejoice with them as the community's courage, bravery and generosity help them overcome a stunning, yet unforgiving life on the land. With the help from some unlikely characters, and friendships that will last a lifetime, the pair overcome the harsh realities of life on the land. Including a delicious three course dinner with beverages, Australian Outback Spectacular's Heartland takes guests on a compelling and emotional ride into the heart of the Australian bush.

Oxenford QLD

Australia's Parliament House

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Parliament House

See democracy in action at Australia’s iconic Parliament House high on Capital Hill. Book your tour for Question Time to see the country’s elected politicians making decisions on behalf of the nation. Take a guided tour, visit the popular Queen's Terrace Cafe, and see an impressive collection of Australian art including one of the world’s largest tapestries.

Canberra ACT

Thundercloud reciting poetry in front of Australian Poetry Hall of Fame mural — Image credit: James Warren

Entertainment Venues

Australian Poetry Hall of Fame

Located on Kamilaroi land, the Arcadia Theatre in Guyra is a venue once more as the Australian Poetry Hall of Fame. Established in 2020 to celebrate and preserve Australian poets and their poetry. There is a large collection of Australian poetry, the Australian Poetry Hall of Fame featuring poetry and portraits of famous Australian poets. There is a large auditorium with a stage for events, a bookshop, art supplies, gift shop and market every Saturday morning and open mic poetry night every Wednesday evening. You can enjoy some of the vegetarian/vegan delights from Seahorse Medicine Cafe and also browse the Red Door Gallery featuring local and national artists. Groups are catered for with special packages available which include poetry performances and talks on Australian poets and poetry. Guyra is on the New England Highway half way between Newcastle and Brisbane, 30 minutes north of Armidale.

Guyra NSW

Australian Railway Monument and Rail Journeys Museum

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Railway Monument and Rail Journeys Museum

Werris Creek is the first and last railway town in NSW and is located on a major railway junction. The Werris Creek railway station is the third largest in NSW. It houses the Werris Creek Rail Journeys Museum, which brings this town's railway past back to life. The stunning displays are a credit to the tireless volunteers who made this museum happen. Constant upgrades and new displays will make the visitor come back again and again. The latest addition is a model railway showing Werris Creek in its railway heydays. The entry donations go towards upgrading and maintaining the museum. The Australian Railway Monument commemorates railway men and women who have lost their lives in railway accidents since 1850. The landscaped monument area features six three metre stainless steel sculptures of railway workers created by Australian Artist Dominique Sutton, an amphitheatre for public concerts and over 2,400 names on walls of remembrance.

Werris Creek NSW

Pepper Grinders

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Red Gum Gallery

Nestled in the heart of Kangaroo Island, discover the unique artistry and natural beauty of Kangaroo Island at the Australian Red Gum Gallery. Here, artist Jonny Gloyne breathes new life into the relics of the giant Red Gum trees that once flourished on the island's western end. Hand-turning each piece, he creates a stunning range of high-quality products that are both beautiful and useful. From pepper and salt mills to salad bowls, fruit platters, clocks, and barometers, there's something for everyone to admire. Experience a truly immersive stay at Roo Lagoon Homestead where you can spend your day observing and learning the skillful techniques of Jonny. With the option to stay onsite, you'll have the opportunity to witness firsthand the mastery of Jonny's craft. The Australian Red Gum Gallery typically operates from 10am to 4pm, six days a week. However, it is recommended to make an appointment and contact them prior to your visit.

Newland SA

Entry to The Australian Reptile Park — Image credit: The Australian Reptile Park

Zoos, Sanctuaries, Aquariums and Wildlife Parks

Australian Reptile Park

The Australian Reptile Park, located on the Central Coast of New South Wales and awarded Australia's best major tourist attraction, is renowned for being a great family fun day out, only one hour from Sydney and Newcastle. Get up close with native Australian wildlife including kangaroos, koalas, Tasmanian devils and wombats. Admire cassowaries, dingos, Komodo dragons, and walk with Hugo, their giant Galapagos tortoise. Learn about the venom program in the reptile show and catch the awe-inspiring Elvis the saltwater crocodile, plus the 40 American alligators in the lagoon. Kids of all ages will enjoy the playground and interactive exhibits, including the Lost World of Reptiles, Spider World, Frog Hollow and Weigel Venom Centre. Pack a barbecue lunch and enjoy the complimentary barbecue facilities in the picnic grounds surrounded by kangaroos or enjoy a variety of food from the cafe.

Somersby NSW

Australian Road Transport Heritage Centre — Image credit: ARTHC

Galleries, Museums and Collections

Australian Road Transport Heritage Centre

The Australian Road Transport Heritage Centre is becoming an iconic national transport museum dedicated to the preservation, upkeep and display of vehicles and equipment that played a role in the development of the Australian road transport industry. In particular the Australian Road Transport Heritage Centre are showcasing some of vehicles and equipment that operated on the Hume Highway and tell some of the stories from the Hume Highway and Gundagai region.

Gundagai NSW

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