From Queensland to New York: a dinner truffle experience

Truffles are the stars of a new winter menu at W Brisbane’s signature restaurant The Lex.

The eatery is known for fusing Queensland produce with New York City influences, but the fungi are being sourced from the other side of the country in Western Australia.

Lex is showcasing a dedicated truffle inclusion, putting the spotlight on one of the season’s superstars: French Perigord truffles, with freshly shaved truffle added to their à la carte choices for $15 a gram.

Sourced from Oak Valley Farm in Western Australia, the truffles also star on a four-course Truffle Tasting menu, with menu highlights including a Moreton Bay Bug roll paired with smoky truffle aioli, and Tater Tots with crème fraîche and black truffle.

A winter hero dish, the slow-cooked and smoked Warilba lamb rump is served with parsnip, green carrot oil and shaved truffle. Guests can also opt to upgrade to the MB6+ Wagyu NY strip steak, topped with freshly shaved truffle and finished with a garlic jus.



Rounding out the truffle-laced experience are sides like roasted potatoes with rosemary garlic oil and truffle, Truffle Mac & Cheese with lobster, and creamed spinach with Gruyere cheese and Warrigal greens.

The winter dining experience at The Lex also features interactive elements that add a theatrical element to the menu - this is Brisbane, after all.

Guests can indulge in a caviar bump to start, preview a dry-aged tomahawk steak tableside, or end the evening with the cheese trolley.

The hotel says 85%+ ingredients are sourced locally from Queensland suppliers.

The Lex four-course Truffle Tasting menu is available until July 31 for for $145 per person with wine pairing options also available.

The Lex is open for dinner Monday-Saturday nights.

You can book here.

New cellar door recognised at architecture awards

The recently opened Tolpuddle Vineyard Tasting Room in the Coal River Valley has taken out the top honour for Commercial Architecture at the 2025 Tasmanian Architecture Awards. 

The awards were presented by the Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) earlier this month. The project also received a commendation for Sustainable Architecture and the EmAGN Project Award.

Held annually, the AIA awards recognise excellence across commercial, public, educational, residential, interior and heritage architecture. 

Designed by Hobart-based Tanner Architects and built by Cordwell Built, the Tolpuddle Vineyard Tasting Room is nestled within the vineyard, with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows framing sweeping views of the vines. 

Salvaged West Coast Tasmanian timber features throughout the building, and guests can enjoy seating both indoors and outside. 

“We deliberately chose to use local architects and builders for the project," said Tolpuddle Vineyard co-owner and project director Martin Shaw. 

"Tanner Architects interpreted the brief brilliantly and Cordwell Built did a sensational job in construction. We couldn’t be happier with the outcome.”

The Australian Institute of Architects (AIA) jury citation said: “This project exemplifies a refined and disciplined approach to commercial architecture, achieving balance between agricultural authenticity and architectural sophistication. 

"Likewise, the built form is sensitively integrated within its landscape, demonstrating a strong connection to place. The clear delineation of tasting areas and amenities ensure a seamless and intuitive
user experience."

The Tolpuddle Vineyard Tasting Room is open by appointment Friday through Monday 11am to 5pm with last bookings at 4pm. Tastings are $55 per person.

See tolpuddlevineyard.com

Image: Adam Gibson   

Bastille Day celebrations will be a few days late this year in Sydney

With Bastille Day inconveniently falling on a Monday this year, Sydneysiders will have to be patient before Sydney’s iconic French festival returns from July 17-20.

The Bastille Festival - four days of food, wine, art and more - will be again be held across the Circular Quay/The Rocks precinct.

For over a decade, the Bastille Festival has been bringing joie de vivre to Sydney's Francophiles.

“Each year, we aim to recreate what we love about France right here in the heart of Sydney,” says Vincent Hernandez, the founder and event directorval Director. “This 12th edition is all about going bigger, bolder, and more immersive - offering Sydneysiders and visitors a true ‘Tour de France’ of flavours, sights, and sounds.”

Bastille Festival 2025 will feature more than 120 exhibitors and over 80 dishes.

Expect crowd favourites like raclette, escargots, crêpes, and macarons, along with international flavours reimagined with a French twist.

“Food is at the heart of French culture, and it’s at the heart of Bastille Festival too,” says Hernandez. “We want every bite to transport you - whether it’s through a traditional regional speciality or a creative new fusion you’ve never tried before.”

Bastille Festival’s wine program is promoted as its most extensive yet.

Eight wine regions will be offering a curated selection of four wines. From Bordeaux to Burgundy, Beaujolais to Provence, Languedoc to the Rhône Valley, and Alsace to the Loire Valley, it sounds a liquid delight.

“Our wine experiences aren’t just about tasting - they’re about storytelling,” says Hernandez. “Each glass is a journey through a region, its traditions, and its people.”

This year, Champagne will take centre stage, with pop-up stations throughout the festival and two distinctive wine bars offering Champagne paired with oysters and seafood.

There will also be mulled wine, spiced hot cider, beer bars, and cocktail stations with 18 bars dotted around Circular Quay and The Rocks.

The program includes over 100 free shows, including live concerts, street theatre, dance lessons, fire performances, acrobatic displays, and more. And entry is free.

See https://bastillefestival.com.au/sydney/

Melbourne pub to unveil a $7.5 million revamp

One of Melbourne's favourite traditional pubs will unveil a new look in August after a $7.4 million facelift.

The Palace Hotel, a landmark in Camberwell in the inner east of the city, will have a revamped ground floor, while upstairs the restoration of the building’s original balcony will offer a relaxed new space.

A new menu from executive chef Tony Moss, will have a focus on sharing and snack-led social food for upstairs, including hand-stretched Roman-style pizza.

Downstairs will offer classic modern counter meals.

Venue manager Neil O’Connor says: "The Palace Hotel has always held a special place in Camberwell, and this renovation ensures it continues to be a cherished gathering spot for generations to come.

"We've created a unique offering that caters to every mood and occasion, from a casual weeknight to a sophisticated evening out, all built around a serious dedication to quality F&B.

The Palace has been a cornerstone of the local community for over 130 years. The renewal project, led by Cayas + Ward and built by Five One Group, celebrates the building's authentic character while introducing modern amenities and distinct experiences across its two levels.

ALH Hotels managing director Paul Carew says: "We're taking our redevelopments seriously to ensure every ALH venue, like The Palace Hotel, sets a new standard for customer satisfaction.

"We believe in honouring the rich history of these iconic venues while innovating, to deliver truly outstanding food and beverage experiences."

For more info see www.palacecamberwell.com.au.

An oasis in Bali's tourism epicentre

Whether you plan on partying, surfing or spending some time in the pool with the kids. Pullman Bali Legian Beach has a major drawcard: its location.

Midway between Kuta and Seminyak, and situated right across the road from one of Bali's most popular surfing beaches, this is an ideal base for lovers of bustling international hotels.

All the local attractions are within a short stroll, whether you want to walk along the beach, visit myriad restaurants and bars, have a massage, a mani/pedi, drink cocktails, visit a market, get a tattoo, drink at a beach club or maybe see a drag show.

Or alternatively there's enough activities on site for the whole family that you could stay on site and stay busy all week.

There are a variety of room styles on offer and we were lucky enough to spend one night in a Premium Deluxe Ocean View room (below), and the second in a spacious and very quiet Exclusive Family Room.

This is a big hotel - offering terrific variety. 

There are 378 rooms and suites, each with the possibility of overlooking the gardens, pools or ocean. 

There is plenty of fresh air and sunlight no matter which room format you choose, and all rooms are  equipped with LED smart TV and cable channels, fast and free wifi, bathtubs and rainfall showers, yoga kits and safe deposit boxes.

There is a lot of greenery here; it is a little oasis from the hustle and bustle outside. Visit the hotel's own temple gardens, dine in the Montage all-day dining restaurant (with different global cuisines featured each night of the week), or dine from an on-trend food truck. 

Think Middle Eastern foods one night, seafood another, or Tastes of Asia, which we enjoyed. Not gourmet, but hearty. The relaxed resort vibe does sometimes extend to the service.

But if you need a late-night bite after being out partying, or a cosy breakfast in bed, there is 24-hour in-room dining.

Breakfast can be whatever you want from a buffet array of healthy options ranging from Japanese and Indian to western options. The egg station is quick and efficient and makes excellent omelettes. 

The al a carte all-day menu features Indian and Korean dishes, western favourites and local tastes like satay platters and bebek goreng (duck fried rice) 

There are three bars, an infinity pool, garden pool and kids pool, a well equipped gym with enthusiastic trainers, a kids club, even function rooms and a ballroom. 

Keeping guests’ wellness to the fore, the modern Tjakra7 Spa features hydro pools (below), steam room and sauna, along with a range of spa therapies. It is very impressive. 

There are bars serving cocktails, mocktails, beers and wines. Choose from L-Bar near the lobby area (which has late-night BOGOF happy hours), IP Bar at the rooftop Infinity Pool that offers great sunset views, and the relaxed Garden Bar. 

For those needing time before check in or after check out there is a lounge with computer screens and bathroom facilities. 

Kids will love the late-night movies shown open air in the gardens.  

What does the manager have to say? 

“Pullman Bali Legian Beach is a property which stands out amongst all the hotels and resorts in this legendary Kuta and Legian area," says GM Ravi Khubchandani. 

"As the home of business, casual meetings, and leisure, Pullman Bali Legian Beach is a primary choice to stay for many people that would like to enjoy the exalting life alongside the famous Legian Beach.”

See https://www.pullman-bali-legianbeach.com/ 

# The writer was hosted by Accor

Overseas visitors still turning their back on the US

Overseas tourist arrivals to the United States continue to slump.

Apparently people from many other countries just don't like Donald Trump very much.

June preliminary figures from the US government show visitation from overseas substantially down, news hub Travel Mole reports,

The trend is due to a combination of factors including geopolitical turbulence, economic difficulties and a degraded image of the country in the eyes of many potential travellers, it reported.

Preliminary numbers released by the National Travel and Tourism Office saw visits from overseas to the US down by -3.4% year-over-year.

With 2.8 million overseas travellers in June, the figure represents only 80% of 2019 levels. The overseas figure excludes visitors from Canada and Mexico.

From the 20 top inbound markets, 11 showed a decline in June. Ecuador, South Korea, and Australia showed the most significant declines with respective drops of -14.1%, -10.7% and -10.2%.

Arrivals from Western Europe - a top inbound region for the US - were also down by 2.5% in June.

All Scandinavian countries recorded a double-digit decline but the US did receive more visitors from Italy (up 3.4%) and Spain (up 2.1%).

The most resilient region in June was Latin America (excluding Mexico). Central American arrivals posted a growth of 6.8% while South American visitors were up by 2.1%.

In contrast to the general trend, Argentina and Brazil posted respective gains of 15.6% and 18.6%. 

Wine, weddings, parties, anything in Western Australia

Take an American and a South African. Drop them in Western Australia and watch them build a thriving wine business and cellar door, a spirits brand and luxury accommodation.

Ampersand Estates, co-owned by friends and business partners Melissa Bell and Corrie Scheepers, offers wine and events in the Pemberton region of south-west Western Australia.

It is home to three spacious luxury accommodation options surrounded by vineyards, native forest and wild kangaroos.

The Homestead sits on the Donnelly River and has five king-sized bedrooms, each with en suites. The Vintner’s Residence is on a hilltop, overlooking the vineyards and surrounding forest – it also boasts five king-sized bedrooms with en suite bathrooms.

The Settler’s Cottage is a two-bedroom, one-bathroom configuration, adjacent to the lakeside cellar door.

A private in-house chef is available to cater for gourmets and in-house guests also have a weather guarantee.

From July through September, guests staying at Ampersand Estates will enjoy bottomless Ampersand wine - every time it rains.

There is also a Winter Escape package where guests stay three nights and pay for two.



Bell and Scheepers have reinvigorated the former Donnelly River Winery, the oldest winery in the region.

Ampersand is promoted as a "harmonious convergence of premium wines, luxury accommodation, gourmet culinary delights, unique spirits, and the breath-taking natural beauty of Western Australia". 

The property hosts events and weddings, as well as wine lovers.

The wine range includes chardonnay, syrah, rosé, pinot noir and sauvignon blanc - exported to Singapore - while the Rainfall Distillery produces a range of spirits, specialising in gins and vodkas.

Pemberton is 3.5 hours’ drive south of Perth and 40 minutes east of Margaret River region.

Part of the Southern Forests wine region, the Pemberton region boasts six cellar doors and is the Southern Hemisphere’s black Perigord truffle epicentre - producing up to 85% of the annual harvest.

I haven't tried the wines or the spirits yet - but I will report back.  

See www.ampersandestates.com.au

Stirred, not shaken: Subsea Estate trials ocean-matured wines

There are multiple ways to make your wines stand out from the crowd.

Make them organic, biodynamic, amber or natural. Choose a striking label, or uniquely shaped bottle.

But wines that have been immersed in the ocean to mature have a serious point of difference.

Meet Subsea Estate from Western Australia, which promises "a complete immersion in ocean winemaking innovation" .

These wines undergo fermentation and maturation on lees beneath the waves, stirred by the ocean swells, which create a different texture profile. Did the wines roll off my tongue, or was it the power of suggestion?

The Subsea Estate wines come in two different iterations; Land & Ocean ($40), and Pure Ocean ($120).

So think Margaret River semillon and shiraz partially, or fully, elevated under the Southern Ocean.

Land & Ocean wines are fermented on land then treated to southern maritime influence, while Pure Ocean is matured entirely on the "WineReef".

Subsea Estate has established its open ocean underwater ‘cellar’ in Rare Foods Australia’s 413-hectare ocean lease off Flinders Bay near Augusta.

Subsea Estate’s cellars lie 15 to 20 metres below the water where "consistent temperatures, oceanic pressure, and gentle currents create distinctive characteristics that speak of ocean rhythms and the seasons of the sea."

I preferred the more complex Pure Ocean version of the shiraz but the Land & Ocean version of the semillon.

I suspect it will take a few vintages to learn the ideal timing to evaluate the "unique flavour profiles that express their ocean provenance".

The wines are the brainchild of local abalone diver Brad Adams and French winemaker Emmanuel Poirmeur, sparked by a vision: "what if… Margaret River’s exceptional wines could be transformed by the very waters that make this region unique?"   

The wines are well made and stand up without their unique provenance, but certainly make an intriguing dinner party talking point or a brilliant mystery wine game subject.

“We’re excited to bring to Australians a totally new and unique drinking experience that’s a true taste of  Margaret River," the founders say in their mission statement.

“We love working with our wonderful natural marine environment to produce wines that can’t be replicated on land. They’re a truly unique product of our magnificent region and our adventurous spirit.”

More trials, and more grape varieties are on their way.

Subsea Cellar Door is at Lot 331 Augusta Boat Harbour, Leeuwin Road, Augusta, and is open daily. 

Explore their story further at https://subseaestate.com

Church Block: And then there were three

Church Block has been a favourite with red wine lovers since it was launched by Wirra Wirra back in 1972.

The brand was originally a grenache/shiraz blend before  founder Greg Trott transitioned to the now-classic cabernet-led blend.

Now Church Block will offer three different McLaren Vale reds - so wine lovers will need to pay attention which iteration they pick up from their local bottle store.

Church Block Shiraz and Church Block Grenache Shiraz join the traditional Church Block Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Merlot blend, which has become regarded as a benchmark for value with an RRP of around $25.

Maintaining the integrity and legacy of Church Block was key to the development of the new wines, says Wirra Wirra CEO Matt Deller.

“The evolution of Church Block was a natural next step,” Deller said.

“It gives us the freedom to explore McLaren Vale’s classic reds through the Church Block lens, with the same focus on authenticity, balance and style that’s defined it for more than 50 years.

“It deepens what Church Block stands for, while staying true to where it began.”

Emma Wood, Wirra Wirra’s chief winemaker since 2022, had a clear vision for the new releases.

“We’ve always approached Church Block as a fine wine,” she said. “We carefully source and blend for complexity, style, and balance.

"These new wines need to live up to the reputation built over 51 vintages by over-delivering on quality, which is why Church Block resonates with both casual drinkers and collectors alike.”

The current vintages of Church Block Cabernet Blend and Church Block Shiraz will also debut a new lightweight proprietary bottle, reducing glass weight from 547g to 410g. This innovation cuts production emissions by 68 tonnes annually, representing a 10% reduction in overall emissions for Wirra Wirra.

The new Church Block wines will hit the stores any day now.

My samples have just arrived, so look out for an update over the next few days.

Why you need to be cyber alert when travelling

Travellers tend to relax when away from home. They shouldn't.

Many don’t realize that their hotel rooms can be hotspots for digital threats - making seemingly relaxing getaways risky moments for their personal data and devices.

"Cybersecurity doesn’t go on holiday just because you do," says Matas Cenys, senior product manager at Saily.

"Even in your hotel room, hackers can exploit weak spots in public infrastructure and devices to access your information.

"That’s why travellers need to take digital security seriously - especially when relying on unfamiliar networks abroad."

Here are some of the ways devices can be hacked on vacation - and how to stay safe with smart precautions and secure mobile connectivity, as recommended by Saily.

Hotel wifi: Protect your connection
Public wifi can be convenient, but it's also one of the easiest gateways for hackers. In hotels, cybercriminals can exploit network vulnerabilities by either infecting the hotel’s legitimate wifi or setting up fake hotspots that look like official hotel networks but are designed to steal your data. Confirm the correct network name with hotel staff or avoid public wifi by using mobile data via an eSIM service, which provides secure, and affordable internet access.

USB charging ports: Stick to the socket
USB ports in hotel rooms may be convenient, especially for international travelers, but they’re not always safe. Modified ports can enable “juice jacking” - a method where malware is transferred to your phone via the USB cable, allowing hackers to steal passwords, credit card numbers, or even your location.

Smart TVs: Don’t let your screen spy on you
Smart TVs in hotel rooms often come equipped with cameras, microphones, and access to streaming services - and they're sometimes poorly secured. Hackers can exploit these devices to eavesdrop, watch, or capture login credentials.

Automatic connections: Disable and defend
Most smartphones are set to connect automatically to known wifi networks, but this can backfire when you're surrounded by insecure or malicious networks. Devices can reconnect without you noticing - even when you’re not in the room. Turn off auto-connect for wifi and Bluetooth. Enable security apps like firewalls or VPNs.

Phishing scams: Don’t let your guard down
Advanced cybercriminal groups like DarkHotel have been known to target high-profile travellers at luxury hotels with phishing campaigns and malware-laced networks. Their phishing emails are convincing, often highly personalised. Avoid clicking suspicious links or downloading unknown attachments.

# Saily is promoted as an affordable and secure travel eSIM app created by the team behind NordVPN.

Image: Lin Watchorn, Scop.io 

Scaling the heights: star chef Best to reinvigorate a Sydney icon

Celebrated Australian chef Mark Best - one of the finest pan handlers of his generation - will open Infinity by Mark Best next month.

Best, known for his outstanding Marque restaurant in Surry Hills, will head a new culinary project on the top level of Sydney Tower.

In partnership with Trippas White Group (TWG), the reimagined restaurant on level 81 will be re-born as "a reflection of contemporary Australian dining".

Best has been earmarked as the man to reinvigorate the iconic Sydney space.

“Infinity by Mark Best is an opportunity to define what Australian dining can truly be: delicious, contemporary, culturally resonant, and grounded in ingredients and identity,” Best said.

“I want to tell a story of place, memory and innovation - to express who I am, and who we are - on a plate.

"I want to explore the evolving story of Australian cuisine, drawing on memory, transforming the familiar, and crafting a dining experience that connects land, culture and imagination; in a setting unlike any other, 81 floors above the city that shaped me.”

Best’s opening menu will include signature snacks like Coffin Bay oysters with grilled sea foam and South Coast Sea Urchin crumpets.

The wine list, curated by Best alongside sommelier for Infinity by Mark Best, Polly Mackarel, will be exclusively Australian.

Paul Romanella, executive general manager at TWG, said: “Partnering with one of Australia’s most celebrated chefs is an exciting milestone for TWG. This collaboration is not only a celebration of culinary excellence but a bold statement of our commitment to championing the best of Australia in a world class setting. Together, we’re creating an unparalleled dining experience.”

Designed to seat 90 guests, Infinity by Mark Best opens on August 13.

See https://infinitysydneytower.com.au/whats-on/mark-best/

Hotel group goes large with four new brands

 

I can’t think of anything the world needs less of than more new hotel brands.

Minor Hotels, a leading global hotel owner and operator with more than 560 properties across 57 countries, disagrees.

Minor this week announced the strategic expansion of its brand portfolio with the addition of four new hotel brands, including the group’s first “soft” brands.

It says the newly launched brands will support Minor Hotels’ continued growth by enabling it to expand into new markets and provide distinctive hospitality offerings across the luxury, premium and select segments.

Soft brands are a hybrid between independent hotels and core-branded properties.  

The new brands include:

The Wolseley Hotels: a luxury brand that will blend British elegance with European flair and global influence. The aim is to create "elegant, immersive spaces that hum with the rhythm of cosmopolitan life".

Minor Reserve Collection: A "luxury soft" brand, Minor Reserve Collection is designed for travellers who seek "thoughtful, tailored stays that balance innovation and time-honoured hospitality".

Colbert Collection: A "soft" brand in the premium segment, will be aimed at those with a passion for "culinary excellence and genuine social connections". 

iStay Hotels: Will offer stays that are "fun and affordable, comfortable and convenient, delivered with minimal fuss". 

These brands join Minor Hotels’ existing portfolio of hotel brands - Anantara, Elewana Collection, Tivoli, NH Collection, Avani, nhow, NH and Oaks. 

“We have meticulously crafted each new brand to capture specific opportunities in the market, enabling us to meet the evolving needs of modern travellers and owners alike," says Ian Di Tullio, Chief Commercial Officer of Minor Hotels. 

"By expanding our brand offering to address new segments, we are empowering our partners, delighting our guests, and accelerating our global growth strategy. 

"These additional brands are instrumental in helping us reach our growth target of 850 properties by the end of 2027.”

The first property announcements for The Wolseley Hotels, Minor Reserve Collection, Colbert Collection and iStay are expected in the coming months.

Taxing times: Amsterdam hits tourists the hardest

If you think your hotel room in Amsterdam is a little expensive, you can blame the local taxes. 

The biggest city in the Netherlands has claimed the top spot as the European city with the highest tourist tax, new rankings compiled by Holidu.pt, the Portuguese branch of the holiday rental technology company Holidu. 

The ranking is based on data from Euromonitor’s “Top 100 City Destinations.”

As of now, Amsterdam charges tourists an average of €18.45 per night, applying a 12.5% tax on the total value of accommodations. 

The measure is part of the city’s strategy to tackle over-tourism, support public infrastructure, and ensure that tourism contributes to Amsterdam’s economy.

Second place is shared by four Greek destinations -Athens, Heraklion, Rhodes and Thessaloniki - which apply an average daily tax of €8.17. 

Dubbed a “climate resilience tax”, it is designed to fund infrastructure upgrades and sustainable tourism. Rates vary by accommodation type and are lower during the off-season (November to March).

Berlin ranks sixth, following a recent tax increase. Since January 1, the German capital imposes a 7.5% levy on the net cost of accommodation, averaging €7.38 per night. Notably, the tax now also applies to business travellers, marking a departure from previous exemptions common in German cities.

Italy is also included  in the top 10, with Milan leading among Italian cities. The city raised its maximum tourist tax to €7 per person, per night, for guests in 4- and 5-star hotels. The average rate now stands at €6.44. 

Rome and Florence share eighth position, with an average rate of €6.18. In Rome, tourists pay €10 per night in 5-star hotels, €7.50 in 4-star, and as little as €4 in 1-star accommodations. Florence applies similar rates, with 5-star hotels at €8, 4-star at €7, and 1-star at €3.50.

Interestingly, some of Europe’s most popular tourist cities do not top the list. 

Barcelona, Paris, and Nice rank 11th and equa 12th. 

While Barcelona charges an average of €5.81 tourist tax, Nice and Paris stand at €5.65 per night. 

Visiting a national park? Make sure you don’t get shot

Stay alert if you are visiting a national park in the Australian state of Victoria.

There may just be a heavily armed deer hunter lurking around the corner.

The Victorian National Parks Association, Invasive Species Council and Environment East Gippsland have all slammed the state government’s decision to open 130,000 hectares of the Errinundra (above) and Snowy River National Parks to seasonal deer hunting.

"The government is shooting themselves in the foot," said Victorian National Parks Association executive director Matt Ruchel.

"People visit national parks to walk, camp, birdwatch and immerse themselves in nature – not share the bush with amateur shooters with high-powered weapons." 

State Environment Minister Steve Dimopoulos says hunting will "reduce the impact of deer on our national parks", but the government's 2021 Statewide Deer Control Strategy states that "...recreational hunting on its own is not an effective means of controlling deer numbers.”

Jack Gough, CEO of the Invasive Species Council, said: "Let's be clear, this is not a serious response to the serious issue of out-of-control feral deer populations trashing, trampling and polluting our forests and rivers. Opening up national parks to recreational hunting is not going to make a difference to numbers on the ground."

The government touts economic benefits from the state's 45,000 licensed hunters. But national parks receive 50 million visits annually - three times more than state forests. This generates greater economic value through nature-based tourism.

Independent polling shows that when asked what visitors valued most about national parks, 53% cited peace and quiet, while 37% explicitly identified "no shooting or hunting" as a reason they would visit national parks more often.

The decision dramatically expands hunting areas beyond the 1.8 million hectares of state forest already available in eastern Victoria. 

If hunting proceeds, Parks Victoria will need dramatically more rangers with enforcement powers, opponents argue. Given the government has consistently cut funding to Parks Victoria, it’s unclear how it will finance the monitoring and compliance of 45,000 licensed hunters across these vast landscapes, along with the safety of visitors.

"We don’t need deer control as just a sport,” said Ruchel. “We need bigger co-ordinated control programs with integrated aerial control and supervised, accredited or professional hunters, especially for the most important habitats.”

The organisations are calling for a clear, well-funded program to protect high-conservation-value areas, using a combination of professional control, supervised accredited hunters, and thermal-assisted aerial programs that can reduce deer populations faster than they reproduce.

On track to enjoy Britain in serious style

Keen to tour Britain in conspicuous style?

Britain’s first luxury sleeper train will welcome its inaugural passengers on July 21, when it makes its maiden journey from London's Victoria Station.

The Britannic Explorer, operated by luxury travel specialists Belmond, will offer three-night itineraries to Britain’s most iconic regions, including Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales.

The train features 18 cabins, including three grand suites and 15 suites, restaurant cars, and an onboard spa.

Each journey will include a program of off-board experiences, including scenic hikes, lavender farm visits, wood-fired saunas, art classes, and yoga by the sea.

Fine dining experiences will be designed by renowned chef Simon Rogan, from L'Enclume in the Lake District.



Passengers are invited to unwind and mingle in the train’s bar, located in the Observation Car, which is designed as the social heart of the Britannic Explorer.

The Cornwall and Lake District routes will run from Friday to Monday, while the Wales route runs from Monday to Thursday.

"I am incredibly proud to launch this revolutionary new train, which further enhances Belmond’s global portfolio of market-leading luxury rail experiences," said Gary Franklin, vice president of trains and cruises for Belmond.

"The Britannic Explorer offers something truly unique; an opportunity to discover the rugged Cornish coastline and the vast expanses of the Lake District like never before."

Belmond’s boutique hotel, The Cadogan, A Belmond Hotel, London, is just a 20-minute transfer from Victoria station.

The experience will not come cheap. 

Luxury accommodation aboard the Britannic Explorer starts from £11,000 based on a double cabin to include a three-night itinerary, excursions, meals, wine and alcoholic beverages on board. For more information see here.

Thailand abandons plans for legal casinos

Thailand has abandoned a plan to allow legal casino gambling, blaming the current political crisis in the country.

The move comes after Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra was suspended from office.

The casino bill is a major policy project for the Pheu Thai Party but it conceded it is "not the appropriate time" to proceed with it, said Julapun Amornvivat, the deputy finance minister.

“It’s a shame; the delay is a lost opportunity for the country,” he said.

Our Thai correspondent had long predicted that the casino plan would not go ahead, citing the money made by influential businessmen in the illegal casino industry.

He said it would "dilute the profits made in illegal casinos".

The Prime Minister is in trouble over an ethics violation in an unrelated natter – the military standoff with Cambodia, media hub Travel Mole reported.

The casino bill aimed to offer permits for major integrated casino resorts to boost tourism revenues.

The cabinet withdrew the bill "for now" as the ruling party has lost the support of its coalition partners.

“It needs more studies that require further understanding and social context,” government spokesperson Jirayu Huangsab said.

Image: Calanja McIester, Scop.io

Regional winery restaurant icon closes after 13 years

It is time for a change at one of regional Victoria's most popular winery restaurants.

After 13 years of sharing regional Italian cuisine, the Dal Zotto family will close down their much-loved Trattoria in the King Valley later this month.

The change will make way for a revamp of their cellar door which will continue to celebrate the Dal Zotto family's legacy as Australia’s "First Family of Prosecco".

While the Trattoria will close its doors on July 13, the cellar door will remain, alongside the on-site accommodation - Dal Zotto Homestead and Studios.

The reimagined space will feature a prosecco-focused destination with Italian-inpsired wine and food pairing.

The closure of the Trattoria does not mean the food offering will disappear entirely. Instead, the family said in a satetment, t will evolve, serving antipasto platters and select food pairings that complement Dal Zotto wines.

Second-generation custodians Michael and Christian Dal Zotto said: “To our incredible teams, past and present, thank you for bringing the Trattoria to life.

"And to our guests, who filled our tables with love and support, we say a heartfelt thank you. You have been the heart of this journey, and we are forever grateful for the friendships forged and the stories shared.”

See www.dalzotto.com.au

Airport spies get a bounty for pinging over-sized bags

Ever wondered why you get pinged for trying to sneak over-sized hand luggage onto your budget flight?

You might well be the victim of an airport snitch.

Airport workers employed on behalf of easyJet are being paid bonuses to stop passengers with suspected oversized baggage.

A leaked email shows gate staff at contractor Swissport are "eligible to receive £1.20 for every gate bag taken" at British airports, travel news hub Travel Mole reports.

The email was addressed to staff at seven UK airports including Birmingham, Glasgow and Newcastle.

It is called the "easyJet gate bag revenue incentive".

A former Swissport passenger service manager said: “Confronting people with excess baggage is like taking on fare dodgers. You risk abuse or worse.”

easyJet allows a small bag to be brought onto flights for free - and larger ones for an additional fee, starting from £5.99.

Oversized cabin bags seized at the gate are put in the hold at a cost of £48 for the errant passenger.

The email was sent out in November 2023 but the incentive scheme is still operating, Travel Mole reported.

“We serve our airline customers and apply their policies under terms and conditions for managing their operation."Swissport said in response.

"We’re highly professional and our focus is on delivering safe and efficient operations.”

easyJet said in a statement: “easyJet is focused on ensuring our ground handling partners apply our policies correctly and consistently in fairness to all our customers.

“Our bag policies and options are well understood and we remind customers of this when booking, before they travel and on their boarding pass.”

Bordeaux over-supply crisis may see more vines ripped out

An over-supply of non-premium grapes is causing increasing concern in Bordeaux.

At least 5,500 hectares of vines may still need to be uprooted in Bordeaux by 600 struggling wine grape growers, officials say.

"We are losing more consumers than hectares today," said Jean-Samuel Eynard, president of the Gironde Chamber of Agriculture,

"If things don't improve, it will continue and continue," he was reported as saying by wine industry news hub Vitisphere.

Discussions continue in Bordeaux as to how many hectares of vines would need to be uprooted to return to a structural commercial balance that would allow wine prices to rise.

Bernard Farges, president of the regional wine council the CIVB (Bordeaux Wine Interprofessional Council), this week emphasised the problems facing the industry.

"The headwinds are piling up," he said. "Liquidations, restructurings, lost jobs, bled-dry businesses, a deteriorating economic fabric, and impoverished villages."

Why Tasmanian wine producers are celebrating

Tasmanian wine producers are celebrating a combination of exceptional quality, strong value and record-breaking yields in 2025.

Tasmania’s wine grape growers managed variable seasonal conditions to harvest an impressive 23,002 tonnes of grapes - equating to about 20 million bottles of wine. This represents a 37% increase on 2024 and is almost double the disappointing 2023 vintage.

Sheralee Davies, CEO of Wine Tasmania, welcomed the 2025 vintage results and recognised the efforts of the island’s grape growers and winemakers, many of whom are small family businesses.

“Tasmania may only be a small wine region, producing 1.2% of the country’s total wine, but it represents 6.5% of the national value and is ranked fifth most valuable wine region based on its farmgate value,” Davies said.

The 2024/25 growing season was slightly warmer than average, but the island’s maritime and southerly-influenced climate helped moderate temperatures, while timely rainfall was received.

Harvesting began earlier than usual in 2025, with this earlier, condensed and larger vintage applying some pressure to winery capacity. Despite some challenges including localised frost and hail, Tasmania’s viticulturists reported good quality cool-climate fruit.

“This record vintage comes at a time when Tasmania is building on strong demand for its wine, including undertaking a new export market program," Davies said.."While global wine consumption is decreasing, people are prioritising and preferrencing higher quality wines, such as those Tasmania produces.”

The full 2025 Tasmanian wine grape vintage report can be accessed at winetasmania.com.au/vintage2025.

Image: Dalrymple vineyards

Some positive news for Australian wine producers

The Australian wine industry is celebrating some positive news with the wine grape crush up in 2025 after two record low vintages.

Sadly, it is still below the long-term average and there are negatives.

The 2025 Australian wine grape crush is estimated to be 1.57 million tonnes, 160,000 tonnes (11%) more than the 2024 crush but still 140,000 tonnes below the 10-year average of 1.71 million tonnes, the National Vintage Report 2025, released today by Wine Australia, shows.

The smaller crush relative to the long-term average is likely to have been a result of both seasonal and strategic factors, with a decline in demand for wine globally driving adjustment in the Australian wine sector, according to Peter Bailey, manager for market insights at Wine Australia.

“The 2025 crush equates to around 1.1 billion litres of wine, which is in line with current sales of Australian wine on domestic and export markets,” Bailey said.

The year-on-year increase in the crush was driven by red varieties, which were up by 20%, while the crush of white varieties was 2% higher than in 2024.

“The crush of red grapes is still estimated to be the third-smallest in more than a decade (the past two years being the smallest) and was 9% below its 10-year average, while the crush of white grapes was 8% below the 10-year average,” Bailey added.

He noted that the mix of red versus white was problematic.

“The significant increase in red varieties this year could exacerbate the challenges facing the sector in terms of excess stocks of red wine, and might further reduce demand for these varieties next vintage,” he said.

The total value of the Australian wine grape crush in 2025 is estimated to be $1.13 billion, an additional $136 million (14% compared with 2024.

Bailey said that despite the increases, the average purchase values for warm inland reds in the past two years were the lowest in over a decade, and for many growers would not be sufficient for production to be economically viable.

“Conditions are not likely to improve for red grapes until there is a significant reduction in the supply base,” Bailey said.

“The wine sector needs to continue to work together to bring supply and demand back into balance at a profitable price point for growers and winemakers.”

Shiraz regained its position as the number one variety, increasing by 23%, while chardonnay dropped back to second place, after significant frosts across many regions caused it to decrease by 13%.

South Australia accounted for the largest share of the national crush by size, with 48%. New South Wales was the next largest, with a 33% share of the crush.

The National Vintage Report is available from www.wineaustralia.com/market-insights/national-vintage-report. 

How to celebrate Bastille Day in Australia

While Australians tend to ignore the 4th of July and many other national days they are quite partial to celebrating both St Patrick's Day and Bastille Day.

Perhaps because both involve the enjoyment of alcohol.

Jean-Claude Mas, the man behind the Arrogant Frog wine label, has just released some new drops in time for Bastille Day on July 14.

Mas owns around 20 estates around the Languedoc region and says he crafted the Arrogant Frog range "for people that want to drink well without spending a fortune and to enjoy a wine that is incredibly consistent vintage after vintage".

He says the wines "deliver pleasure, style, and a real sense of place, all with limited fuss and a cheeky smile."

The newcomers are the Arrogant Frog Sauvignon Blanc 2023 and the Arrogant Frog Chardonnay 2023, along with Arrogant Frog Pinot Noir 2024 and, my favourite of the quartet, the Arrogant Frog Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 'Ribet Red' 2023.

Mas has these Pays d'Oc wines are $13.99 at Dan Murphy's, or $13.30 if you buy six or more. A very affordable way to mark Bastille Day celebrations.

But with Bastille Day falling on a Monday - maybe you might choose next weekend to celebrate in advance.

In Sydney, French-accented eateries Armorica (above) and Franca are hosting a weekend of celebrations with exclusive menu offerings and live jazz on Saturday, July 12, and Sunday, July 13.

Jazz musicians will perform live from 1pm-4pm during lunch service at both venues, adding to the festive atmosphere, and guests will be greeted with a complimentary French 75 Cocktail upon arrival to toast the occasion in style.

Armorica is offering guests two set menus for Bastille Day Weekend: Liberté - minimum two persons - for $95pp and La Grande Révolution - minimum four persons for $160pp.

Franca is offering guests a three-course set menu for the weekend for $125pp.

See https://www.armorica.com.au/ and https://www.francabrasserie.com.au/

 

On yer bike in East Gippsland

 

Former railway lines turned into cycling and walking trails are proving increasingly popular. 

Victoria’s East Gippsland Rail Trail is one of several standout rail trail experiences offered by Australian Cycle Tours, and for a limited time, travellers can save up to 20% on select departures between August and December 2025.

This scenic 100km+ trail weaves through temperate rainforest, farmland and historic towns, finishing at the Gippsland Lakes. Highlights include Metung Hot Springs, cellar doors, seafood dinners and koala habitat. It uses the route of the former railway line between Bairnsdale and Orbost.

Cyclists can choose between a self-guided or supported group cycle, with savings available for bookings made before the end of July. 

The self-guided ride includes accommodation, luggage transfers and app-based navigation. It is promoted as being ideal for independent travellers who want everything organised, with the freedom to take each day at their own pace. E-Bikes are also available.

Best of East Gippsland Rail Trail is designed for small groups departing on September 8 or November 3. This itinerary includes local guidance, van support, a soak in the Metung Hot Springs, scenic side trips and locally hosted meals.

More information and bookings:
https://www.australiancycletours.com.au/popular-trails/east-gippsland-rail-trail

All the info you need to enjoy Australia's east coast with your furry friends

You know you are on a winner when you are publishing the seventh edition of a book. 

 
Travelling with Pets on Australia's East Coast by Carla Francis is about to be re-released having proven a big hit with pet lovers who like to hit the road with their furry friends. 

Francis is a freelance writer and a devoted pet owner who cannot stand to leave her dog behind when she travels. 

Her book takes in the huge area from from Port Douglas to Port Fairy, right through Queensland, New South Wales and Victoria, and features everything from cat cabins to cute cockatiel-friendly caravan parks. 

If a property or service business welcomes canines or felines, it will probably be listed; from five-star hotels to campsites. 

Francis says her mission was "to provide a definitive guide to pet-friendly accommodation". 

So think doggie days out, dog-friendly beaches, parks, cafes, pubs and wineries, plus traveller’s tips for pet-friendly sightseeing.

Well laid out and chock full of useful info.    

Travelling with Pets on Australia's East Coast has an RRP of $34.99 and is published by Woodslane Press. It is available at bookstores and at www.woodslane.com.au 

New festival sets itself some lofty goals

A new festival in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales has set itself some rather lofty goals - with the confident announcement that The Horizontal Festival is set to "transform Australia's festival landscape".

The new festival, which will debut at Centennial Vineyards on October 4-5 is, apparently "positioned to become a major annual highlight on the state’s cultural calendar".

Big boasts. And the press release carries on in similar vein.

"Horizontal Festival is not just another food and wine event. It is an immersive journey, placing the customer experience at its heart by blending the best of NSW’s food, wine, music, and art in creatively curated spaces."

Sounds huge. But what makes it different?

"Festival-goers will enjoy varietal-led wine tastings, exceptional local cuisine, live music performances and art installations - all designed to foster meaningful connections between producers, visitors and industry."

To be honest, it doesn't sound drastically different to plenty of other festivals.

On we go.

"Horizontal Festival reimagines the festival experience by seamlessly merging the energy of a music concert with the discovery and charm of agri-tourism.

"Throughout the festival, guests will enjoy live performances and curated music in every zone, alongside captivating art installations, interactive workshops, and demonstrations by sommeliers, chefs, and artisans - creating a truly immersive, multi-sensory festival experience that invites exploration and engagement at every turn."

Hmm.

Festival creator and founder Amanda Fry, who I have known for some time, says: “Events have evolved beyond what’s on stage or on the plate - people are craving unforgettable, immersive experiences that engage all the senses.

"I designed Horizontal Festival to put the guest at the heart of the action from the moment they enter the event. Every space offers a multi-facetted experience because I want people to walk away having been part of something fresh, new and exciting.

“By blending the very best of NSW’s food, music, wine, and art in creatively curated spaces, we’re setting a new standard for what a festival can be. A festival that truly puts the customer experience first.

“Across all the events I curate, supporting local businesses and artisans is at the centre of everything we do. So Horizontal Festival is a platform to showcase the extraordinary talent and craftsmanship found right here in the Southern Highlands and across New South Wales.

"We want every guest to walk away feeling inspired, engaged, and part of a vibrant community and planning their next trip to meet the makers in their home towns.

“We’re thrilled that Destination NSW is investing in a regional event of this scale. Their support is instrumental in helping us shine a spotlight on the beauty and potential of the Southern Highlands as a backdrop to celebrating all the NSW makers, creators and growers can offer.”

At the heart of the Horizontal Festival experience are a series of distinct, immersive zones - each "thoughtfully curated" to transport guests on a journey of taste, sound, and discovery.

The organisers are certainly setting themselves a very high bar. And giving potential attendees high expectations.

Check out festival information, program highlights, ticket sales, and updates at www.horizontalfestival.com.au.

Snakes alive: smuggler has to wriggle out of charges

An alleged wildlife smuggler will try to wriggle out of charges after being found with three live pythons smuggled down his underwear. 

 
A Sri Lankan man was arrested at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi airport this week after three ball pythons were discovered on his person, the Bangkok Post reported. 

The Wildlife Crime Intelligence Centre said officials received intelligence on Tuesday that the man had arrived in Bangkok on a Thai Airways flight. 

Background checks showed he had a record of trafficking various wildlife species. He had previously been arrested on wildlife smuggling charges in Colombo in 2024, the centre said.

The centre monitored the movements of the suspected wildlife smuggler and on Wednesday he returned to the airport to check in for his return flight. 

Officials asked him to undergo inspection using X-ray equipment. No illegal items were found. They then undertook a body search that found the three ball pythons hidden in his underwear.

The suspect was taken into custody and authorities are expanding the investigation, the newspaper reported. It was not reported how large the snakes were. 

The ball python, also called the royal python, is named because of its tendency to curl into a ball when stressed or frightened.

Demand continues to surge for Asian cruises

Demand for international cruising continues to surge, new data reveals. 

Cruise Guru, CLIA’s 2024 Online Cruise Agency of the Year, has revealed a significant shift in consumer interest towards international cruising, with Q1 2025 data showing a 19% surge in searches for international cruises compared to the same period last year. 

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is the world's largest cruise industry association.

Cruise Guru said destination-specific searches jumped by 22.08% with Asian countries such as Japan, South Korea, China and other south-east Asian destinations among the top regions searched in Q1 2025.

Asia emerged as the top region of interest with 22% selecting it as their preferred destination, surpassing traditional hotspots. 

“We are witnessing a clear shift in the way Australians are searching for cruises with our data showing a rising appetite for international itineraries, particularly in Asia," said Michael Betteridge, Chief Commercial & Operations Officer at Cruise Guru.

"Asia is an easy choice as it combines value, closer-to-home convenience and a sense of discovery as travellers seek new horizons beyond the traditional Mediterranean and South Pacific routes.”

Australia’s domestic cruising capacity has declined about 30% in recent years with changes expected to be felt in the coming seasons. Several cruise lines have adjusted their schedules or withdrawn ships from the region, creating a gap that’s prompting Australian travellers to look further afield.

Contact 13 13 03 or visit www.cruiseguru.com.au.

7/7 means up to 77% off flights with Vietjet

 

There is no airline that offers as many special deals and airfare reductions as Vietjet, which is now the largest Vietnamese airline flying between Australia and Vietnam.

Vietjet has announced a "7/7 double-day promotion" that offers Australian travellers up to 77% off discounted fares across its Vietnam domestic and international network, including direct routes between Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth to Ho Chi Minh City, as well as between Sydney, Melbourne and Hanoi.

The sale kicks off for one day only, from 3am on July 7 to 2am to July 8 AEST.

Guests booking Eco tickets via www.vietjetair.com or the Vietjet Air mobile app using the promo code SUPERSALE77 will be eligible. 

The offer is valid for travel between August 11, 2025, and March 28, 2026.

As a part of Vietjet’s global expansion, the airline has also launched two new direct routes from Hanoi to Chengdu and Hanoi to Xi’an.

To meet rising travel demand, Vietjet has added over 600,000 additional seats across its growing network of more than 145 domestic and international routes, connecting travellers to destinations in Vietnam, India, China, South Korea, Japan, south-east Asia, and beyond.

Cradle Mountain Lodge ups the sweetness for winter

The team at Peppers Cradle Mountain Lodge, one of Tasmania's iconic venues, has come up with some sweet treats to help guests enjoy the rest of winter. 

Cradle Mountain Lodge is celebrating the first snow of the season this week with the launch of a new seasonal indulgence: Signature Hot Chocolates, now available at the Tavern Bar & Bistro. 

Inspired by the beauty of Tasmania’s highlands, the limited-edition drinks are named after local highlights: The Aurora Glow is a blend of creamy white chocolate and rose; the Wombat Burrow is dark chocolate with coconut cream and a hint of vanilla; the Cradle Campfire is a combo of chilli dark chocolate and cinnamon and the Highland Spirit is a mix of milk chocolate, caramel, and brûléed sugar.

In addition to this offering, guests are encouraged to extend their winter escape with an exclusive stay offer: book two nights or more and receive 20% off accommodation throughout the season.

Each hot chocolate blend can be optionally enhanced with a carefully selected spirit, maybe a Tassie whisky, to make them perfect for an après-walk indulgence beside the fire.

I love the tranquillity of Cradle Mountain lodge with its crisp mountain air, cosy timber cabins and wildlife spotting opportunities. 

"Winter at Cradle Mountain Lodge is truly magical," says GM Kim Barnes. 

"From the first snowfall that blankets the ancient forests to the quiet moments watching native wildlife like wombats and pademelons adapt to the season, there is a unique serenity and beauty that captivates every guest. 

"It’s a time to slow down, reconnect with nature, and experience Tasmania’s wilderness in its most enchanting form."

Explore the full Signature Hot Chocolate menu here: www.cradlemountainlodge.com.au/hot-chocolate

AirAsia eyes Gulf hub as it ponders return to Europe

Malaysia-based low cost carrier AirAsia is looking to expand its flight destinations into Europe.

AirAsia has plans to establish an airport hub in the Arabian Gulf, giving it a stepping stone to resume European flights after a long absence.

It is eyeing one-stop flights from Kuala Lumpur to London Gatwick among other major cities.

AirAsia CEO Tony Fernandes said talks were held with government officials from some Gulf states recently, but no location has yet been decided.

“From there, Europe is a shorter distance," he told the Financial Times. "We can then start looking at those kinds of exciting, longer-haul fares, and start taking people around the world through a one-stop and multi-hop strategy."

The airline has tried non-stop flights to Europe previously, including to London and Paris, but found the high costs a negative factor.

Costs are a major factor in the Asia market with rival Jetstar Asia recently announcing it will shut down.

“I think destinations that decide that they’re premium are missing out on a big market," Fernandes added.

"We’re going back to the Ryanair strategy of looking at alternative airports to serve those markets.”

AirAsia currently only has about 8% of its passenger traffic taking connecting flights.

It hopes to significantly grow this.

“Airlines such as ours have just been point to point, but a shift could be a very, very profitable part of the business for us,” Fernandes said.

Cannes cracks down on cruise ship visitors

The French Riviera resort of Cannes is the latest popular destination to crack down on cruise ship numbers. 

From the start of 2026, ships accommodating more 1,000 guests will be banned from Cannes harbour.

And there will be an additional limit of 6,000 passengers per day allowed to visit the city, news hub Travel Mole reports.

Larger ships are not totally banned from visiting, but will have to tender further out at sea.

This is already the case for some of the largest ships now as the old port cannot accommodate the largest vessels.

The Cannes city council voted for new limits following the introduction of similar restrictions in nearby Nice and Villefranche.

“Cannes has become a major cruise ship destination, with real economic benefits," said Mayor David Lisnard. 

"It’s not about banning cruise ships, but about regulating and setting guidelines for their navigation.”