Head to the middle of nowhere for an authentic Italian flavours

A remote lodge in rural Australia might seem like an unlikely spot to explore the rustic regional cuisine of Italy.

Located at the northern end of Kosciuszko National Park between Gundagai and Tumut, Nimbo Fork Lodge offers romantic escapes and corporate getaways.

And gourmet adventures at the fork of the Tumut River and Nimbo Creek: a spectacular location.

Three Blue Ducks Nimbo, the on-site eatery, is launching a new culinary series this winter - Regioni d’Italia - Chef Frankie’s Italian Food Tour, a monthly long lunch celebrating the distinct flavours of Italy’s regions, beginning Saturday, June 28.

The series will celebrate the rich culinary traditions of Italy’s diverse regions, beginning with head chef Frankie Mauro’s home region of Friuli-Venezia Giulia.

Priced at $69 per person, each lunch will include a snack and three share-style courses that pay homage to a specific Italian region. A list of local wine specials will also be available to purchase on the day, highlighting Australian producers of Italian varietals. The experience will be offered across multiple sittings from noon to 2pm.

“This series is a chance for me to show that Italian food is about so much more than pizza and pasta,” said Mauro.

“Each region has its own identity, its own ingredients, its own soul. Friuli, where I’m from, has food that’s rich, bold and shaped by the mountains.”

The debut menu will offer a personal introduction to the series.

“Cotechino e brovada is a dish of slow-cooked pork sausage with pickled turnip and is one of my favourite things in the world to eat - it’s what I grew up on," the chef says. "My dad’s side of the family were farmers, so we were raised around hunting, butchering, and curing meat. These dishes carry memories for me, and it’s special to be able to share that with guests.”

Other dishes will include Prosciutto di San Daniele e Asiago con grissini; gnocchi di zucca; frico polenta and gubana con rum , traditional northern Italian fruit and nut cake with rum

Future lunches will spotlight other regional cuisines including Emilia-Romagna, Trentino-Alto Adige, Marche, and Tuscany.

Event Details
Where: Three Blue Ducks at Nimbo Fork Lodge, 330 Nimbo Road, Killimicat NSW 2720
When: Launching Saturday June 28, then monthly on the last Saturday of the month from June-October
Price: $69 per person | Includes snack + three shared courses | Drinks additional

Bookings are essential. To reserve a table see threeblueducks.com/regioni-ditalia.

For more info visit nimbofork.com.au.

Japan to crack down on medical fee dodgers

If you have an outstanding medical bill in Japan you might be refused entry next time you try to get back into the country.

Japan plans to deny entry to foreign tourists who have not settled medical bills during previous visits to Japan.

A cabinet meeting last week drew up a new policy to crack down on unpaid medical fees for visiting tourists and also unpaid health care premiums for foreign workers and foreign exchange students.

Foreign tourists who outstanding medical fees will be denied entry, travel news hub Travel Mole reports.

The government also plans to reject visa extensions for foreigners working in Japan who have not paid national healthcare premiums.

There are no specific details on how the rules will be implemented.

“If our current systems are unable to address the realities of globalisation and fail to dispel public anxiety, then drastic reforms must be undertaken,” Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba said.

“We will make sure to consider the rights of foreign nationals are ensured and provide necessary support so they won’t be isolated in our country.

“But we will take strict measures for those who don’t follow the rules.”

Companies that employ foreign workers and don’t pay the required social insurance premiums will also be penalised.

This includes tourism related businesses.

Foreign nationals who live and work in Japan at least three months are required to join the national health care program.

Foreign exchange students must also join the national healthcare program.

Image: PJ Endrinal, Scop.io

Holidaymakers have a growing focus on wellness

Holidays that focus on health and wellness are all the rage as we approach Global Wellness Day on June 14. 

Regenerative travel, recharging. physical health, mental clarity, and long-term wellbeing are among the main drivers of vacation choices, trend forecasters and travel platforms like Kayak’s What the Future Travel Trend Report say. 

They suggest that by the end of the decade, holidays that support longevity and wellness will rival traditional luxury escapes in popularity.

Savvy travellers are trading indulgence for purpose and seeking itineraries that move their bodies, clear their minds, and connect them more deeply with nature.

So I'm told. 

Active travel company UTracks reports a growing appetite for wellness-focused holidays. 

“Our itineraries naturally align with this shift,” says general manager Kate Baker. 

“Walking and cycling, staying in small locally run lodgings, and spending time immersed in nature, it’s a style of travel that, while not new, seems increasingly in tune with what people are looking for in 2025.

“Our travellers want to feel recharged, not just during the trip, but afterwards. Our tours offer a healthy dose of time in nature, terrain that moves you, and transformation that lasts. 

"When people return home feeling clearer, stronger, and more connected to the places they’ve visited, that’s a good sign our tour balance is right.”

UTracks Tours in Europe fitting this vibe include:

• Mont Blanc Guided Walk (France, Italy, Switzerland)
https://www.utracks.com/France/Alpine-Hiking/Mont-Blanc-Guided-Hike

• Cycling the Danube Path (Austria)
https://www.utracks.com/Austria/Self-Guided-Cycling/Blue-Danube-Cycle-to-Vienna-in-Comfort

• Amalfi Coast Walk (Italy)
https://www.utracks.com/Italy/Self-Guided-Walking/Classic-Amalfi-Coast-6-Days

and
• Lake Bled and the Julian Alps Circuit (Slovenia)
https://www.utracks.com/Slovenia/Self-Guided-Walking/Lake-Bled-and-the-Julian-Alps

Premier wine tourism operation hits the market

A leading wine tourism operation in regional Victoria has just hit the market.

Cannibal Creek Vineyards in West Gippsland, just an hour south-east of Melbourne, is being sold by the Hardiker family.

The property includes an award-winning cellar door and restaurant, a fully equipped winery plus a renovated three-bedroom home with a pool.

Sitting on 27.9 hectares, including 4.3 hectares under vine, it is surrounded by its namesake Cannibal Creek, Mount Cannibal and Bunyip State Park.

The vineyard comprises chardonnay and pinot noir vines, along with sauvignon blanc, merlot and cabernet sauvignon.

Kirsten and Patrick Hardiker planted the vines 28 years ago and told GoTR they hope to sell the business in its entirety on a walk-in, walk-out basis, saying the property has become too much for them to manage.

"Pat has had a series of operations over the years: hips, shoulder, back and most recently knees and it has become too much for us," co-owner and manager Kirsten said. "Unfortunately our adult children have pursued different professions. 

"We still love the process of growing grapes and making wine, less so the selling of it. The restaurant (below) and cellar door are well patronised, but it is time for a different, and possibly younger, outfit to take it on."

The property is being sold by Matt Rice from Facey Commercial and Ben Rose, from Castran, who is also a vineyard consultant.

Among the suggested possibilities, subject to council permission, are expanding the size of the vineyard and winery operations, and/or the restaurant and cellar door, as well as extending the opening hours.

There is also the idea of building accommodation on the site and capitalising on its scale and scenery to become a destination for weddings and events.

"This unique lifestyle property provides the opportunity to be creative, social and active in a beautiful environment,” said Rice.

“You can do as little or as much as you choose with options to contract out the winery operation or lease out the restaurant, if running and growing the operation is not your preference.”

Tynong North is on the edge of West Gippsland in the Port Phillip wine region, which is in easy day-trip distance for Melburnians and visitors to Victoria.

For details see https://www.commercialrealestate.com.au/news/acclaimed-vineyard-restaurant-cannibal-creek-for-sale-1387757/

Vinarchy rings in the changes, including closing Banrock Station

The new Vinarchy global wine business has only been in existence for a few weeks, but major changes are already afoot. 

Among the changes announced this week: 

* The new business will invest $30 million to establish its Rowland Flat winery in the Barossa as a centre of excellence for premium and sparkling winemaking.

* Berri Estates in the Riverland will become Vinarchy’s primary commercial winemaking, packaging, and warehousing hub.

* Winemaking currently undertaken at the St Hallett winery in the Barossa and Hardy’s Tintara winery in McLaren Vale will see production moved to Rowland Flat for the 2026 and 2027 vintages respectively.

* The Banrock Station visitor centre and wetlands will close. 

* The company's global headquarters will be in Adelaide. 

“Adopting this twin-hub structure at Berri Estates and Rowland Flat allows us to consolidate our resources and expertise, strengthening the business and ensuring we remain competitive in the face of ongoing challenges in the global wine market,” said Joe Russo, Vinarchy’s Chief Supply Officer. 

“These important changes represent Vinarchy’s commitment to building a stronger winemaking footprint in South Australia.

“Both St Hallett and Hardys are critical brands for Vinarchy and we recognise the rich local history they have in the Barossa and McLaren Vale. 

@While our winemaking will move, our commitment to quality wines, local sourcing and premium cellar door experiences for these brands do not change.

“These wines will be made with the same grapes from the same regions, by the same winemakers, just at another winery.”

Vinarchy says it is committed to maintaining a compelling and sustainable cellar door footprint by focusing investment behind its primary brand experiences in South Australia: Jacob’s Creek, St Hugo (top image), Hardys, St Hallett, Grant Burge, Katnook Estate and Petaluma.

As part of these plans, Rolf Binder and Banrock Station cellar door and restaurant operations will close, although vineyard and viticulture operations at these sites will be unaffected.

"Vinarchy recognises these changes may create uncertainty for team members and is committed to supporting its people as changes are implemented progressively over the next 12 months," Russo added.

“We are deeply mindful of the impact these changes may have on our people.

“Where roles are affected, we are committed to supporting our teams through redeployment opportunities to other locations in many cases, or, where necessary, redundancy and outplacement support. We will continue to consult closely with our teams over the coming months as we make this transition.”

Vinarchy says it remains committed to its long-standing partnerships with regional suppliers and premium grape growers across the Riverland, McLaren Vale, Adelaide Hills, the Barossa and Coonawarra. 

Looking ahead, the newly appointed CEO of the merger between Accolade Wines and Pernod Ricard Winemakers Danny Celoni said: “I believe Vinarchy is well positioned to play a leading role in the future growth and expansion of the wine category. 

"Our rich heritage, combined with our established brands, capabilities, and unwavering commitment to customer and consumer centricity provides an exceptional platform for driving core category growth, differentiated innovation and value creation.”

Purple Soul wines make a serious statement

A few weeks ago I was invited to attend "a wine evening of elegance and indulgence" - which sounded right up my street.

Unfortunately, the evening was being held in Adelaide, and am usually based in Tasmania, so had to decline.

But given the event was a launch for a wine brand that I had not heard of - Purple Soul Wines - I was intrigued.

It turns out Purple Soul is based in McLaren Vale with a production facility at Loxton, and is owned by the Lim family, who also have business interests in China.

Fifteen years spent mostly in sales and operations for bulk wine producers motivated Jamison Lim to create his own wine brand, Purple Soul, in 2018. He clearly purchased some quality base material as his wines date back to vintage 2019.

He's chosen his support staff well with Oliver Crawford (ex-Devil's Lair and current MD of wine consultancy group Veraise) as winemaker.

The range is built around chardonnay, grenache and shiraz from the Adelaide Hills, Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale respectively.

Each wine has a name derived from Greek mythology. And as well as Purple Soul, the Lim family also has wine brands in China, Chile, and Italy.

I think they'll be selling a lot of their wine in China as they have done well in several Chinese wine shows, and the ornate packaging is eye-catching.

The first wine I tried - the plummy and turbo-charged 2019 Anchor of Oceanus McLaren Vale Shiraz ($60) - is clearly aimed at lovers of big, macho alcoholic styles. It is described as "bold and only for the brave". It is huge - with 16.7% alcohol by volume.  

Much more to my personal taste were the 2023 Harp of Gaea Barossa Grenache ($60) and the 2023 Sphere of Uranus Adelaide Hills Chardonnay ($60), much more traditional in style abut both full of flavour. 

These are wines that make a serious statement. See https://purple-soul.com.au/

 

Orange gets a chic new vineyard events space

 

Historic Mayfield Vineyard, which has a history that dates to 1813, has unveiled The Grove, a new event space in the heart of Orange wine region.

Mayfield is already  one of Orange’s premier wedding and event destinations, but has added the new venue designed to host celebrations and social gatherings as well as corporate events.

The Grove complements the vineyard’s School House venue and historic Homestead.

Set in the vineyards, The Grove has a capacity of 150 seated and 180 for cocktail events. 

The grounds are home to a rare collection of northern hemisphere tree species. 

“We’re excited to unveil The Grove as a new venue that expands the opportunities for our guests,” said Mayfield Vineyard owner Rebecca Eastham. 

“Whether it's a wedding, milestone celebration, or corporate retreat, our guests now have the flexibility to host events across several unique, picturesque settings within one estate.”

Further details can be found at mayfieldvineyard.com.au

Your opportunity to buy Virgin Australia shares

Fancy owning shares in Virgin Australia? You will get that chance later this month. 

Virgin Australia Holdings Limited (Virgin Australia) has confirmed its long-rumoured intention to proceed with an Initial Public Offering (IPO) and list on the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) under the ticker code VGN. 

The airline said: "A Prospectus has today been lodged with the Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) and filed with the ASX."

Virgin Australia is the country’s second-largest airline group and has been revitalised under the ownership of Bain Capital. 

It operates a fleet of more than 100 aircraft on 76 routes to 38 destinations across its domestic and short-haul international airline business. 

The IPO is comprised of an offer of 236.2 million fully paid ordinary shares at an offer price of $2.90 per share, raising A$685 million to allow certain existing equity holders the opportunity to realise part of their investment in the company.

On completion, investors participating in the offer are expected to hold 30.2% of shares on issue, with the remainder being held by existing investors, which include Bain Capital, Qatar Airways Group, Virgin Group, and Queensland Investment Corporation.

“After making significant progress in Virgin Australia’s transformation and with the backing of leading global airline Qatar Airways Group as a strategic investor, we believe it is now appropriate for the business to transition to a publicly listed company,” said Virgin Australia chairman Peter Warne. 

“This provides an opportunity for new investors to share in the success of Virgin Australia as the airline enters its next phase.

“I commend all those involved in orchestrating Virgin Australia’s remarkable turnaround and setting the business up for long-term success.”

* Virgin Australia currently expects to list on the ASX on Tuesday, June 24, 2025. 

When hotel lobbies morph into art galleries

Hotel lobbies are spaces populated by people with time to kill. 

Waiting to check in; meeting someone, perhaps awaiting a taxi or Uber. 

It makes sense, then, that hotel spaces are increasingly being utilised as art galleries. 

That's the case at Rydges Melbourne, part of "a growing movement toward the integration of site-specific, bespoke art, not simply as decoration, but as a strategic tool to elevate guest experience and differentiate spaces".

The new example is Spectra, a vibrant new installation on display at Rydges Melbourne, created by acclaimed abstract expressionist Rowena Martinich and artist Geoffrey Carran. 

What is described as "their signature fusion of fine art and spatial design" aims to transforms the hotel’s walls, carpets and common areas into a "fully immersive, colour-saturated environment, a bold step in rethinking commercial interiors."

The exhibit tries to blur the lines between fine art and functional design, 

Lee Davey, general manager at Rydges Melbourne, says the partnership aligns with the hotel’s commitment to support local creatives.

"We’re excited to see our lobby come to life with Spectra, and we hope it sparks conversation and connection with our guests. 

"Collaborating with local talents like Rowena Martinich and Geoffrey Carran for Melbourne Design Week lets us support our community in a way that feels true to who we are. We’re proud to be part of what makes this city so special - its events, its festivals, and the creative spirit that brings people together.”

Featuring custom-designed carpets (in partnership with GH Commercial), a 12m wallpapered wall, limited-edition canvas prints, original large-scale paintings, and a vibrant window installation are all showcased.

"Spectra allows us to apply our artistic language to a functional setting in a way that's both immersive and emotionally resonant," says Martinich. 

"Seeing my gestural painting translated into carpet was a dream realised, where colour and movement become part of how people interact with a space."

Spectra is on view until July 20 at Rydges Melbourne. www.martinich.com.au

Cruise ships get a thumbs up from New Zealand

While many destinations around the world are banning or restricting cruise ships the New Zealand government announced they will be permitted to continue sailing Milford Sound.

The decision came after calls to block cruise ships.

Government officials say they have struck a balance by allowing cruise tourism in Milford Sound Piopiotahi while funding $NZ15.2 million for infrastructure improvements and conservation.

“We are supporting the local economy and providing certainty for operators by enabling cruise ships and aircraft to continue to access the fjord,” said New Zealand Tourism and Hospitality Minister Louise Upston.

Cruises are already restricted in the Sound and no more than two ships can visit per day.

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) welcomed the decision.

“Milford Sound Piopiotahi is one of New Zealand’s most spectacular natural assets and the international cruise industry is strongly committed to protecting it,” the CLIA said.

“The cruise industry will continue to work closely with New Zealand authorities to ensure the appropriate management of cruise tourism.”

All visiting cruise ships must sign a deed of agreement with Environment Southland for managed access to the Southland coast.

Trump bans people from 12 countries from the US

We’ve all read about Australians with legitimate visas being refused entry to the United States by “overzealous” US Customs and Border Protection staff. 

Now President Donald Trump has upped the ante by banning anyone from 12 countries from entering the US at all. 

The Trump administration on Wednesday banned people from 12 countries from entering the United States, a dramatic escalation in Trump’s crackdown on immigration, The New York Times reports. 

The ban, which goes into effect on Monday, primarily affects travellers from Africa nations and the Middle East. The list includes Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. 

How dare they not be American? 

Trump has also partially banned travellers from several other countries, including Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

The decision to ban travel from those countries comes after Trump blocked asylum seekers at the southern border of the US and barred international students from Harvard University.

The newspaper says Trump’s order frames the reasoning for restricting travel as necessary because of national security threats, but critics say that the order discriminates against broad swaths of people based on their ethnicity alone. 

In his first term as president Trump barred travel from several Muslim-majority countries, including Iran.

“The recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado, has underscored the extreme dangers posed to our country by the entry of foreign nationals who are not properly vetted, as well as those who come here as temporary visitors and overstay their visas. We don’t want them,” Trump said in a video message posted on social media.

Trump’s order comes just a few days after an Egyptian man in Colorado attacked a group honouring hostages being held in Gaza. Trump administration officials warned that they would crack down on migration in the wake of the attack.

You can just imagine the outrage if countries imposed complete bans on US passport holders. 

Get 66% off Vietjet fares - for one day only

The folks at Vietjet - the biggest airline between Australia and Vietnam - love a headline-grabbing sale, or special offer.

Their latest offer runs for one day only on Friday, June 8, with Vietjet launching an exclusive 6/6 flash sale, offering a 66% discount off Eco fare tickets across its entire network - with 66,666 discounted seats up for grabs.

The promotion applies to Aussie travellers looking to explore Vietnam’s top destinations like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City flying from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth.

The offer is valid for travel between August 18 and November 30.

Vietjet is rolling out hot new routes this winter, such as Phu Quoc–Singapore, Hanoi–Tuy Hoa (Phu Yen), Nha Trang-Da Nang, and international services to Xi’an and Chengdu in China.

The airline's flight network covers Vietnam, Australia, India, China, South Korea, Japan, and south-east Asia.

Fares must be booked at www.vietjetair.com or the Vietjet Air mobile app by entering the promo code SUPERSALE66.

Tread Softly walks the walk for female winemakers

Tread Softly Wines, one of Australia’s highest-profile sustainability-driven wine brands, has launched a Next Generation Winemaking Rising Star Program, an initiative designed to empower the next wave of female winemaking talent.

The year-long program offers one rising female winemaker the chance to work alongside some of Australia’s top mentors, develop their own signature wine, and gain end-to-end exposure across production, marketing, and global trade and consumer engagement.

Known for is eco-friendly practices and lighter wines, Tread Softly's new initiative has been designed to empower emerging winemakers to continue progressing in sustainable winemaking and nurture a greener future for generations to follow.

Applications are now open for the program and close on July 11.

Tread Softly says it has a mission to incorporate social responsibility by supporting emerging winemakers.

“Our goal with the Next Generation Winemaking Rising Star Program is to champion up-and-coming female winemakers to leave their mark on the industry," said Indeya Passfield, Tread Softly global marketing manager and program mentor.

"Tread Softly is more than a wine brand - it’s a movement. By employing efficient production practices and planting over two million trees, we’ve been working hard to reduce our carbon footprint and give back to the land.

"Now, we are expanding our mission to give back to the wine world by investing in its future leaders.”

Submissions will be judged on creativity, authenticity, and sustainability, with the most compelling entry selected for the program.

Tread Softly is a brand of Fourth Wave Wines. See www.treadsoftly.com/nextgeneration.

South-East Asia full of promise for wine producers

South-East Asia is a region that offers multiple new business opportunities for wine producers around the world, the head of the Vinexpo organisation believes.

Speaking after the conclusion of Vinexpo Asia in Singapore, Vinexposium CEO Rodolphe Lamayse said: "The wine and spirits industry is at a global turning point.

"With so many uncertainties re-shaping global trade, South-East Asia emerges as a new consumption continent. This is no time for solo moves - it's about playing as a team.

"And Vinexpo Asia offered precisely the field for that. Our responsibility is clear: bring structure, perspective, and clarity."

Vinexpo Asia 2025 ran from May 27-29 and attracted 8,998 trade participants at Marina Bay Sands, including substantial numbers from Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Indonesia and the Philippines.

Vinesposium reported that the ASEAN bloc demonstrated a shared momentum driven by demographic growth and economic ambition.

"It's always very exciting to be at Vinexpo Asia, it's an annual activity for us. We meet our partners and explore new brands to introduce in Malaysia. Being here speeds up the process," says Wilson Khor, marketing brand manager at Luen Heng F&B.

Vinexpo Asia will returns to Hong Kong from May 26-28 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Center (HKCEC). The event alternates between Singapore and Hong Kong.

For more information see the Vinexpo Asia website.

.

Double duty for star chef Kellie

There are some busy times ahead for star Adelaide chef Jake Kellie.

Kellie, who guides star eatery arkhé, has this week also taken the reins as culinary director at luxury Barossa estate Kingsford The Barossa.

Kellie will lead Kingsford’s Orleana Restaurant as well as the broader food offering across the boutique hotel.

He is charged with re-shaping the restaurant’s offering that promises to be a celebration of the region's rich produce. 

"Kellie’s bold cooking style and immersive approach to dining is in perfect synergy with the vision for Orleana, a restaurant designed to showcase the depth of produce in the region and complement the legacy and landscape of the Kingsford Estate, says Salter Brothers Hospitality Chief Operating Officer, Andrea Richards.

"He’s built an outstanding reputation with some of the world’s best chefs including Gordon Ramsay and Heston Blumenthal, honing his craft at revered restaurants including The Fat Duck (UK), The Ledbury (UK), Estelle (Melbourne), Aria (Sydney) and most notably as head chef at Michelin-starred Burnt Ends in Singapore that also inspired his own restaurant, arkhé.

“As one of Australia’s finest chefs, his approach to food is fearless, refined, and grounded in deep respect for produce and technique. He pushes boundaries without losing sight of authenticity, which is exactly why he resonates so strongly with today’s guests.”

The dining space at Orleana sits within Kingsford’s luxury lodge, surrounded by 225-acres of native Australian landscape.

The restaurant serves both a la carte and a chef’s selection with ingredients harvested either on-site from the estate’s kitchen garden or sourced via a network of local growers.

A big task given he will also continue to oversee arkhé, his Norwood restaurant.

“This is a place where food is grown with care, cooked with purpose, and served with humility," Kellie says.

"It's a place where guests are invited to connect - with the region, the producers, and the stories behind each plate. I believe that modern Australian cuisine is not defined by trend, but by terroir - and that thoughtful food, grown and cooked with integrity, creates meaningful hospitality.

“For me, Orleana is a chance to bring something fresh and grounded to the Barossa, a restaurant that’s shaped by the seasons, the producers we work with, and the amazing team behind it. I want to create food that feels honest and generous and build a culture that supports that at every level. There’s so much potential here, and I’m keen to bring it to life.” 

See https://kingsfordbarossa.com.au/ 

Jetstar launches Newcastle-Bali flights

Jetstar has announced it will take off from Newcastle to Bali for the first time on October 21, 2025.

Operating three times a week using Jetstar’s A321LR fleet, the Newcastle to Bali (Denpasar) route will provide more than 70,000 seats annually between the two destinations.

With a direct flight time of just over six hours, the new service will eliminate the need for passengers from the Newcastle region to take connecting flights, making it easier than ever for people to experience Bali’s beaches, cultural heritage, and hospitality

This milestone marks Newcastle’s return to international travel, the first ongoing international route since 2020, and reinforces Jetstar’s continued growth.

The announcement of the new route also comes just one month after Jetstar launched direct flights from the Gold Coast to Bali, commencing August 1.

Bali remains Jetstar’s most popular international destination, with around 100 flights taking off to Bali each week.

Jetstar Group CEO Steph Tully said the new international route is an exciting milestone as Jetstar continues to significantly expand its network.

"We're thrilled to be the airline to launch Newcastle’s first international flights in more than five years with our new direct service from Newcastle to Bali,” she said.

“Jetstar is committed to making travel more accessible, and people living in and around Newcastle will no longer need to drive to other airports to fly overseas, which means more time and money can go toward their holiday.

"We want to thank Newcastle Airport and the NSW Government for their support in making travel more accessible”

Fancy a mental challenge? Meet Melbourne's new drawcard

Looking for something different to do in Melbourne this winter?

Prison Island just might fit the bill.

Promoted as being "packed with adrenaline, teamwork, and challenges", Prison Island is a new interactive adventure that can be enjoyed by friends, families, or corporate teams.

Opening on Friday, June 5, the new attraction will be located at District Docklands, bringing a completely new leisure concept to Melburnians.

Brought to life by immersive entertainment specialists Make It Now, and co-produced with leading global live entertainment platform Fever, Prison Island features more than 30 unique "cells" - each offering a combination of action games, sports, and skills-based tests.

Forget typical escape rooms, Prison Island is a fast-paced, team adventure where strategy and skills must be combined.

With 34 unique challenge cells to choose from, every room is a new mission, and every win gets you one step closer to the top of the leaderboard.

Teams of two to five players have 90 minutes to conquer as many challenges as possible - ranging from logical thinking and dexterity to physical tasks.

Each cell is individually designed to keep players constantly engaged, allowing friends, families and colleagues to reveal their competitive sides.

Originating in Scandinavia, the concept of Prison Island has proved popular in numerous European cities.

“Our mission is to bring people together through play and create an unforgettable experience. The various cells provide a dynamic and versatile experience that combines action, logic, and teamwork,” said Mikael Bouteillon, founder of Prison Island.

Tickets are available at https://feverup.com/

Ferry, ferry dumb: Tasmania botches major project

If you order two new high-tech ferries to boost tourism to your island then the first thing you need to do is ensure that you have somewhere suitable for them to dock.

Unfortunately for the tourism industry in Tasmania that did not happen when ferry operator TT-Line ordered two new ferries to run from Devonport, on the north coast of the island, to Geelong, outside Melbourne.

The new Spirit of Tasmania ferries, Spirit IV and V, have been built in Finland by shipbuilder Rauma Marine Construction and have been undergoing testing and preparations to travel to Tasmania after several delays. 

IV has spent several months docked at Leith in Scotland with nowhere to go, and now V is also homeless. 

TasPorts, which operates docking facilities around Tasmania, did not begin construction on the new berth in Devonport until last year and it is not expected to be completed until late 2026 at the earliest.

That left the two ships with no role - and nowhere to berth. The government was left with huge bills to dock the ships in Scotland, It investigated leasing them out but could not find anyone willing to do so.      
Both ships, which will add 40% to freight capacity between Tasmania and mainland Australia, were originally due to be delivered to Tasmania in late 2024.

Former minister for infrastructure and transport Michael Ferguson resigned ahead of a no-confidence motion over his handling of the saga - but he remains a member of the government. 

The former TT-Line chairman Michael Grainger and chief executive Bernard Dwyer also left the company. 

Earlier this month, the government revealed one of the projects central to the cost blowouts and delays - the construction of the new berth - had blown out by over $100 million on the most recent estimate. 

Initially quoted at $90 million prior to 2024, the berth construction cost was estimated at $375 million last year, and that figure has now been revised to $495 million.

Last week, the flailing Tasmanian Government revealed that both new ships have issues with their LNG (liquefied natural gas) systems.

The state’s Minister for Transport Eric Abetz said TT-Line has advised the problems will “take some time” to fix, and will again delay the duo of vessels’ arrival in Australia from Finland.

"RMC has advised TT-Line that the issue needs further assessment and rectification, and as a result Spirit IV will not depart for Australia until the work is completed," Abetz said.

"The government is awaiting further details in relation to a new expected departure date, but it is understood that this work will take some time."

Abetz said that any necessary repair costs will be covered under warranty with RMC, and that TT-Line had representatives on the ground in Finland and was engaging with the company.

Abetz had previously said in June last year: “All going well, we expect that the first of the new ships will be ready for delivery in Q3 of 2024, commencing its journey to Tasmania not long after.”

That proved wildly optimistic.

 
Repairs are also being made after a gas bottle was sucked from the seabed into the thrusters of one of the new ferries during testing

The LNG blow has added to delays previously caused by port construction blowouts and bad weather, delivering a sizeable hit to the Tasmanian tourism economy and anger among those exporting goods from the island state.

 It has also sparked comments that Tasmania should change its slogan to "State of Inertia" and has been described by an opposition MP as "the biggest infrastructure stuff up in Tasmania's history".    

Hawaii to impose environmental tax on tourists

Hawaii, a group of islands of outstanding natural beauty, is to become the first US state to impose a climate impact fee on visiting tourists.

Funds raised will be used to fund climate change projects and environmental stewardship, travel media outlet Travel Mole reports.

The ‘Green Fee’ is being added to Hawaii’s current transient accommodations tax, as a 0.75% increase. That will take the per night lodging tax imposed on visitors to 11%.

The new tax becomes effective January 1, 2026.

It is payable for guests staying in hotels and short-term vacation rentals and those arriving on cruise ships.

“As an island chain, Hawaii cannot wait for the next disaster to hit before taking action,” Hawaii governor Josh Green said.

“We must build resiliency now, and the Green Fee will provide the necessary financing to ensure resources are available for our future.”

The fee could generate up to $100 million annually - let's hope it is put to good use and not absorbed in consolidated revenue.

Specific projects funded by the Green Fee revenues will be announced will be announced during the next legislative session.

They are expected to cover sustainable tourism initiatives, environmental stewardship, and climate resiliency.

Cruise ship guests were added to the transient accommodation tax to ensure "equity across the tourism industry".

Image: Kauia, Hawaii Tours

Discover warming winter treats at Yalumba

Winter may have arrived but there is still a busy calendar for wine lovers at one of the Barossa's most popular destinations.

Yalumba's historic Wine Room is ready to welcome visitors indoors for a season of warmth, flavours and fine company.

The winter events begin with The Signature & Museum Release Tasting Lunch on Friday, June 14.

Held in the Signature Cellar, this is an intimate tasting experience hosted by former chief winemaker Louisa Rose.

Guests can enjoy a three-course lunch from Vintners Bar & Grill chef Peter Clarke with paired wines including the new release The Signature 2022 Cabernet Sauvignon & Shiraz along with a previews of the 2025 museum releases.

The SALA Festival at Yalumba runs in August.

South Australia’s Living Artists (SALA) will hold two exhibitions in the Wine Room.

First, the Vintners Art Prize - an annual collaboration with Vintners Bar & Grill - showcases local talent with artworks exploring themes of food, wine, and place. Open to residents and workers of the Barossa and Light Regional Council areas, entries close July 18, with the winner announced on July 23.

There will also be a solo showcase by Yalumba’s own Lisa Tekell. Inspired by Australian fauna and flora, Lisa’s finely detailed oil paintings are connected to the natural world.

Her works this year focus on native flowers in full bloom, as seen in her travels, and will be on 
display throughout the month. Book a wine tasting and explore these local works at the same time.

Winter Wine & Whisky at Yalumba will run on August 8-9 and is a mid-winter celebration of flavour, fire, and craft at Yalumba - including the release of a new Smith’s Angaston Whisky.

Guests can enjoy a guided tasting of the new limited-edition whisky along with a behind-the-scenes look at the Hill-Smith family's historic pot still and fistillery and live cooperage demonstrations with barrels being hand-charred for whisky maturation.

Acoustic music on the Terrace and a hearty fireside meal by Howard’s Fire will also be on offer.

Tickets include a glass of Yalumba wine, the whisky tasting, and a meal.

The Yalumba Wine Room is open daily 10am-5pm at 40 Eden Valley Road, Angaston.
Bookings recommended. www.yalumba.com

European vineyards worst hit by climate change

Europe’s wine regions have experienced the most significant climate shifts among global viticultural areas, a new study published in PLOS Climate reveals.

The Public Library of Science is a non-profit organization that publishes academic journals.

The research, conducted by a team of scientists led by Elizabeth Wolkovich, analysed climate exposure across 749 globally-distributed vineyard locations using over 500 grape-growing regions. 

It found that European wine regions have recorded the most extreme increases in warming metrics, particularly in the frequency of hot days and maximum temperatures during the growing season, trace journal the drinks business reported.

The study assessed 10 climate metrics relevant to viticulture - including daily minimum, maximum and mean temperatures during budburst, the growing season and harvest, as well as the number of hot days exceeding 35°C. 

It compared recent climate conditions (1981–2020) against pre-industrial baselines (1901–1940) to quantify the effects of human-caused climate change on winegrowing.

Southern and western Europe showed the highest levels of climate exposure across nearly all metrics.

In particular, the number of extremely hot days in these regions increased by nearly five times compared to pre-industrial levels. The average temperature during the growing season has also risen by more than two standard deviations in key European vineyard areas.

The study found that while climate change is impacting all wine regions globally, the severity and nature of that exposure differ. 

For instance, North American regions generally saw lower relative increases in extreme temperatures and hot days than their European counterparts.

These warming trends present growing challenges for viticulture. 

Changes to average and extreme temperatures during the growing season can alter grape phenology, including earlier ripening and shifts in harvest timing, which in turn may affect grape composition, wine style and regional identity.

Although the study does not offer prescriptive adaptation strategies, the authors emphasise that these observed changes are consistent with anthropogenic climate change, and suggest that many of the world’s most historic and prestigious wine regions are already undergoing unprecedented climatic shifts.

The findings underscore the need for wine producers, particularly in Europe, to assess and implement long-term strategies to address evolving climate risks, including grape varietal selection, vineyard management adjustments, and potential shifts in regional production norms.

Image: Vineyards in Catalonia. Silvia Arellano, Scop.io