Brisbane

Brisbane, often referred to as Brissie or Brisvegas, is the capital of Queensland.  It has a very warm and inviting atmosphere and not just in terms of the weather, with the numerous free outdoor activities on offer including ‘Streets Beach’ in South Bank, the man-made beach complete with beautiful white sand, or the amazing Mt Coot-tha that overlooks Brisbane city all the way to Moreton Bay.

The large and winding Brisbane River flows right through to Moreton Bay and can be explored on one of the many river cruises and ferries that slowly make their way up and down the river.  Whilst many are paid cruises and ferries which you will either need to prebook or use a prepaid go card, there is also a free option.  The Brisbane City Council have provided a hop on hop off ferry service called the CityHopper that you can travel on up and down the river.  It has eight different terminals from North Quay to Sydney Street.  This free service is a fantastic way to get a panoramic view of Brisbane including the city buildings, the restaurants and cafes along the river, the Storey Bridge and of course the Brisbane River, all whilst relaxing on the CityHopper ferry.  You may even be lucky enough to spot or take a ride on either the Bluey or Bingo ferry, for fans of the loveable blue heelers, heading up or down the river.

A stroll through the beautiful City Botanic Gardens with its weeping fig trees and Baldwin Lawn Playground is a great place to go with kids.  If you venture further out by car, approximately 25kms from the CBD, you can find some beautiful Koalas within the Daisy Hill Koala Centre.  The Daisy Hill Koala Centre is managed by Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service and entry is free.  There are interactive displays, films about Koalas and many other educational resources at the centre.  There are free talks daily at 11am and 2pm when the Koalas are fed their leafy greens by the keepers.  Although visitors cannot pat or hold the Koalas, seeing them in a conservation park and learning about this much loved species is a memorable experience for all.