2018 Familiarisation trips

Destination NSW was the proud host of the 2018 Buyer Famil Programme.

PRE Famil program: 4-7 May 2018

1. Discover Southern NSW – Southern Highland & Snowy Mountains

Relax and unwind among the rolling hills of the Southern Highlands, just 90 minutes from Sydney. With a cool climate renowned for producing award-winning wines, the region is rich with national parks and nature reserves scattered with a range of impressive walking trails, scenic lookouts including Fitzroy Falls. Test yourself with challenging outdoor adventures or just savour some quiet time, with a vibrant coffee culture, fabulous shopping and multitude of award winning restaurants and cafes.

Then onto Canberra for an overnight stay before visiting the Snowy Mountains – a haven of recreation in summer or winter ski resorts.

 Note: In Canberra and the Snowy Mountains temperatures range from 3°C/37°F to 14°C/57°F. Please ensure you are prepared for the colder conditions.

Photo courtesy of: Destination NSW
Photo courtesy of: Destination NSW

2. Explore outback New South Wales

Touring NSW Outback gives you the opportunity to experience a unique landscape that will take your breath away. For millennia, Aboriginal inhabitants have appreciated the harsh but fragile natural beauty of Outback NSW. Today, you can see astonishing 30 000 year old Aboriginal rock art at sites in Mutawintji National Park, and the remains of Mungo Man and Mungo Woman, dating back 40,000 years, at Mungo National Park.

Some of the most remote areas in NSW are here including Lightning Ridge, Broken Hill, White Cliffs and Corner Country. The region offers some unique attractions, including the Royal Flying Doctor Service Education Centre and the Living Desert Sculptures in the Living Desert Reserve.

Wherever you go in Outback NSW you’ll be sure to find comfortable accommodation, great food and a warm welcome.

 Note: if you are planning to select the “Explore Outback” famil; please consider a flight arrival into Sydney on Thursday 3 May to ensure you can participate.

POST Famil program: 11-14 May 2018

1. Journey the legendary Pacific Coast

Heading south from Byron Bay to Sydney along the Pacific Ocean coastline, this scenic drive takes you through some of the most striking landscapes in NSW to Coffs Harbour.

An almost continuous line of surf beaches, national parks and a hinterland of rolling green hills and friendly villages make this a great drive. There are plenty of attractions, an array of accommodation choices and adventures and fun to be had along the way. Discover these and the many hidden secrets along the way. On this itinerary you will experience Byron Bay and its beautiful Hinterland as well as the stunning drive along the Legendary Pacific Coast to Coffs Harbour.

 Note: if you are planning to select this famil; please consider a flight departure from Sydney on Tuesday 15 May to ensure you can participate.

Photo courtesy of: Destination NSW
Photo courtesy of: Destination NSW

2. Get active in the central coast and Port Stephens

The essence of the Central Coast is a beautiful coastline with long sandy beaches, pristine lakes and stunning national parks with many outdoor pursuits to try. Perhaps some horse riding in unspoilt Australian bush, an adrenaline filled zip line adventure, or walk along the stunning coastline of the Bouddi National Park Coastal walk.

Then visit Port Stephens, via Newcastle – a vibrant and trendy city just 3 hours from Sydney. Port Stephens offers many activities and unique experiences such as quad biking and sand-boarding at Stockton Sand Dunes and horse-riding through the bush or try surfing. Try the freshly-caught seafood, local wineries and waterside, alfresco dining options.  The bay is home to around 150 bottlenose dolphins; with opportunities to view or even swim with them. Kayak and paddle boarding activities are also available.

Sydney in a day – all buyers: 9 May 2018

Action in the great outdoors

 Join us for a great introduction to Sydney’s lifestyle with plenty of outdoor action. On this itinerary, you’ll visit some of the city’s most well-known locations including Manly and Bondi Beach, the Sydney Opera House and The Rocks. You’ll also explore the city in a variety of ways – by bike, on a harbour cruise, on a surfboard or paddle board, and on a Skywalk. It’s a short, action-packed visit that’ll give you the chance to find out why Sydney is such a great holiday destination for everyone.

Photo courtesy of: Destination NSW