Thats Australia

Seals by Sea Tours at Cape Bridgewater, 20 kilometres west of Portland, is a world class tour. It is an exciting boat charter which takes up to 11 passengers to the largest mainland seal colony in Australia.

See up to 1000 Australian and New Zealand fur seals. It takes just 3 minutes from our jetty to be alongside the rock platforms and into the watery cave where you will experience a unique interaction within the seals’ natural habitat.

During the 45 minute cruise you will watch the seals playing all around you, showing off to the sound of clicking cameras and getting up to antics that will delight both the young and the young at heart! Some will even approach the boat to have their whiskers tickled! Suitable for all ages.

Operates daily, weather and sea conditions permitting. BOOKINGS ESSENTIAL Departure times vary according to season and demand.

Winner of the Best Tourist Attraction 2001. As seen on Getaway, The Best of Getaway, Postcards, Totally Wild, The Leylands and Coxys big break.

Geelong is Victoria’s second largest city and offers a diverse range of food, wine, cultural and recreation attractions and colonial history. A waterfront city, it is also the major gateway to the Bellarine Peninsula and Great Ocean Road.

Geelong takes full advantage of its unique north-facing bay with fabulous waterfront eateries, landscaped gardens and walking paths set against the backdrop of Corio Bay. Stroll past the sculptured bollards dotted along the foreshore that chronicle characters from the city’s past and present, including dapper young ladies in neck-to-knee bathing costumes, 1930s lifesavers, traditional Aussie families, a Geelong footballer, jaunty sailors, fishermen and a town band.

Close by is Eastern Beach, which features an art deco-style pool, promenade complex and the restored pavilion that houses a pleasant restaurant, café and kiosk.

Pakington Street, the wide tree-lined avenue linking the suburbs of Geelong West and Newtown and home to the annual Pako Festa, is only a few minutes from the city. There are many different restaurants and eateries to try as well as delicatessens, wine merchants, a park to relax in and a street ambience to experience.

Explore the city’s 100 National Trust listed buildings and delve into the history of wool at the National Wool Museum, housed in an impressive three storey historic bluestone wool store dating back to 1872. Take in the Geelong Art Gallery’s outstanding collection of Australian paintings, sculpture and decorative arts.

From horse racing to multicultural festivals, Geelong is a city of major events. Each January Corio Bay is home to Australia’s oldest and largest sailing regatta – Skandia Geelong Week. And the Australian International Airshow fills the skies at Geelong’s Avalon Airport every two years in March.

Geelong is about one hour from Melbourne via the Princes Highway. Daily rail and coach services are available from Melbourne.

Torquay is Victoria’s surfing capital, attracting beach lovers from far and wide to its fabulous beaches and the Great Ocean Road beyond. Torquay has protected family beaches, and wilder, more invigorating surf beaches like Jan Juc. Bells Beach, where the big swells are definitely for experienced surfers, is the next stop along the coast. This world famous beach is the venue for the Rip Curl Pro, one of the most sought after surfing titles on the World Championship Tour, which is held every Easter. There are plenty of opportunities for novices to learn to surf all year round, or you can just sit and watch the waves roll in. Just a short drive away, Point Addis provides breathtaking views out to sea and back to the gently arching bay. The dense bush and towering yellow cliffs contrast with the ocean’s wide blue expanse through to Anglesea and beyond.

Torquay is a popular destination at any time of year. There are great walks, shops, eateries and excellent accommodation. Check out the colourful Cowrie Community Market on the third Sunday of every month.

A hike around the Surf Coast is spectacular in any weather. The Surf Coast Walk is a well established trail stretching more than 35 kilometres from Jan Juc, near Torquay, to Moggs Creek and past Anglesea. Explore thick verdant forest and colourful heathland. You are bound to see many rare and endangered native birds and other wildlife, such as and kangaroos and wallabies. The more adventurous sightseer can take to the air in a chartered vintage Tiger Moth for spectacular Great Ocean Road views.

Some of the biggest names in surf wear and accessories have their headquarters in Torquay, with huge retail outlets at Surf City Plaza selling everything connected with the sport. The Surfworld Museum captures the spirit of surfing in a vibrant range of exhibits that will absorb the interest of anyone who has ever jumped into a wetsuit and onto a board.

Torquay is located 95 kilometres south west of Melbourne. Travel by car via the Surf Coast Highway. Daily rail services are available from Melbourne to Geelong. Local bus services are available from Geelong.

Surrounded by market gardens, orchards and vineyards, Uraidla’s stunning setting makes it a favourite with many visitors.

Uraidla is known for its Hills Produce Market, open on the first and third Sundays of each month, from 10am to 3pm. The market sells fresh produce, gourmet foods, plants and cut flowers.

The Uraidla Show, held in February, offers all the fun of a traditional country show and the Uraidla Hotel is a good option for meals or a glass of local wine.

While in the area, take a few minutes and divert to Basket Range - arguably one of the prettiest scenic areas of the Adelaide Hills.

Uraidla’s origins can be traced back to 1840, but it wasn’t until the 1870s that the area really boomed, with farming the main industry. The valley that surrounds Uraidla was christened Chapel Valley after the wooden chapel built there by the early settlers; however, they replaced it with a stone version in the 1850s. Though its no longer there, a replica model sits in the pioneer cemetery on Swamp Road.

And there’s more to discover in the Adelaide Hills.

It’s the home of boutique wineries, historic homes, art galleries and charming villages. It’s also the place for romantic weekends away, cosy pub meals, scenic drives and nature walks.

Children love the Adelaide Hills’s giant rocking horse, National Motor Museum and wildlife parks.

Located only 20 minutes from Adelaide’s central business district, the Adelaide Hills provide a wonderfully refreshing change from the pace of the city.

Jump on a ferry and cross to Williamstown, a quiet waterfront suburb that offers a relaxing alternative to the bustle of city life. Enjoy a sumptuous meal by the water at Nelson Place and stunning views of Melbourne’s city skyline through the masts of moored boats.

It’s hard to pull yourself away from Nelson Place, with its range of arts, crafts and other speciality shops in historic buildings. You’ll find everything from galleries to classic vinyl and CD shops and don’t miss the craft market on the third Sunday of each month.

Discover the history of Williamstown, which was established in 1837 as Melbourne’s first port. Explore the interior of the replica of the Enterprize, which was the first vessel to carry European settlers up the Yarra and into Melbourne. You can even charter the vessel on weekends.

For another touch of history, stop off at Gem Pier and take a look at the HMAS Castlemaine, a World War II minesweeper converted into a maritime museum. Pause at the Time Ball Tower on Point Gellibrand, built by convicts in the mid-1800s to tell ships the time. It’s still in use today.

There are activities for the whole family in Williamstown. Scienceworks offers an exciting, interactive science experience for the whole family. Grab your bucket, pack a picnic and paddle in the shallows at the lovely Williamstown bay beach. Take a ferry ride across the bay to St Kilda or down the Yarra River to Southbank.

Williamstown is approximately 15 minutes from Melbourne via the West Gate Freeway. Ferries from Southgate run every two hours from 11am daily and take about an hour, or take the half hour ferry ride from St Kilda Pier weekends. Williamstown is a 30-minute train journey from Flinders Street Station.

Visit South Melbourne, one of Melbourne’s oldest suburbs and its beautifully restored public buildings, terrace houses and stately mansions to see how Melbourne’s grand past embraces the present. Nearby Albert Park is a contained area worth a visit for its cafés, delis and scenic outdoor activities. Time your visit for mild March, when the area gets into gear for the Formula 1™ Australian Grand Prix.

Running through the heart of South Melbourne is cosmopolitan Clarendon Street, featuring restored Victorian shopfronts housing fashion, food and coffee outlets. An eclectic range of independent retailers stretches toward the bay along Coventry, Dorcas, Bank and Park streets – you’ll be rewarded for your time with items to covet. Stop for a refreshing drink at one of South Melbourne’s impressive pubs.

The lynchpin of South Melbourne is the South Melbourne Market, a fixture of the area since 1867. You’ll find characters, charm and fresh produce galore at the market, as well as unusual homewares to take home.

Sandwiched between South Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay is Albert Park, popular year-round for its cafés and delis and swag of leisure facilities along Bridport Street. Most popular is Albert Park Lake. Embark on the circuit around the lake and surrounding parklands and join Melbourne’s inner city dwellers jogging, sailing, cycling or rowing. Stop for a dip at Albert Park beach if the temperature heats up. Also in the neighbourhood are the Albert Park Golf Course and the Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre, as well as the Formula 1™ Australian Grand Prix racetrack.

Jump on tram 12 from Collins Street or number 1 from Swanston Street to get to South Melbourne and Albert Park.

Cycle or skate along St Kilda’s palm-lined foreshore then make a dash for an alfresco dining table on Fitzroy or Acland streets against the panoramic backdrop of Port Phillip Bay.

St Kilda, Melbourne’s favourite playground, was once a seaside resort for genteel Melburnians to take the sea air. In the 1960s and 1970s it took on a seedier edge, but today its racy atmosphere has largely been replaced by a heady dose of cosmopolitan cool.

Any tram with St Kilda beach displayed from Bourke, Swanston or Collins streets will get you here to join the Melburnians who flock to walk, cycle and skate along the foreshore. Take advantage of a windy day and dive into the water to sail, windsurf or kitesurf. Release your inner child amid the amusements and rides at iconic Luna Park. When its time to rest, sit in an outdoor café with a coffee – or something a little stronger.

Away from the foreshore, you’ll find much of St Kilda’s activity concentrated in Fitzroy and Acland streets. Fitzroy Street is renowned for its cool cafés, restaurants and bars, with tables spilling onto the footpath. It is one of Melbourne’s most attractive eating and drinking streets. Nearby Acland Street is a bustling, vibrant street with an eclectic mix of restaurants, wine bars and continental cake shops. During the day the streets are lined with people drinking lattes; at night they’re buzzing with clubbers and night owls making the most of the pubs, bars and clubs often featuring international bands or DJs.

St Kilda has long been treasured for its independent vibe. Don’t miss the selection of independent music and book stores, as well as second-hand furniture and a growing collection of fashion boutiques.

Strut your stuff along Chapel Street and after arming yourself with internationally renowned designer labels from the vast array of fashion boutiques in Prahran and South Yarra, seat yourself at a chic café or bar and get ready to see and be seen.

Chapel Street is the backbone of Prahran and South Yarra and is lined with trendy shops selling all things groovy and hip from cutting edge fashion to funky homewares and inspiring gifts. Browse Australian designers like Scanlan & Theodore, Colette Dinnigan and Bettina Liano.

Nearby Toorak Road and High Street are also well-known shopping strips, offering understated sophistication with exclusive shops and boutiques.

Detour to Greville Street (just off Chapel Street in Prahran) for offbeat retro clothing and eclectic gifts, jewellery and record stores. If you’re in the area on a Sunday afternoon, wander through Greville Street Market. For fantastic fresh food and discount shopping don’t miss the Prahran Market on Commercial Road.

Cool bars and cafés like Caffé e Cucina, Café Domo, Pieroni and Chinois are as much about fresh food and cocktails as providing great scope for people-watching, a common pastime in this part of town. Fashion devotees, art students, 30-something professionals, models, techno kids and skaters are all part of the landscape here.

Drag yourself away from the shops and head north for a walk along the banks of the Yarra or take in the precinct’s high society history at the beautiful Como House, where you can wander around the manicured gardens and peek inside the 1850s Victorian-era mansion.

Catch trams 72, 8 or 6 from Swanston Street or take the train from Flinders Street Station to either Prahran or South Yarra stations.

Best known for its bargain designer and seconds shopping along Bridge Road and Swan Street, vibrant Richmond is also the place to go for Greek or Vietnamese food, languid all-day breakfasts and great live music.

Richmond is one of the Melbourne’s earliest settlements and these days is where many of Australia’s finest fashion designers have their factory outlets and seconds stores – pick up bargains at Mimco, Country Road and Atelier. Stop on Swan Street or Bridge Road for lunch in a restaurant or café, many of which offer a genuine taste of Greece. Church Street is the place to go for designer furniture and objets d’art. Try for a booking and savour the tastes at stylish mod-Oz restaurant, Pearl.

Nearby Victoria Street, or Little Saigon, is the heart of Melbourne’s Vietnamese community. Wander among the long stretch of eateries, bakeries, butchers, fishmongers and grocers and grab a bite along the way. Don’t expect white linen tablecloths and hovering waiters – Victoria Street is about the hustle and bustle of fast, fresh and exceptional Asian food at a bargain price.

Bars and live music thrive in Richmond, the Corner Hotel being one of Melbourne’s most famous intimate live-music venues, hosting big-name bands alongside obscure newcomers. Just across Swan Street, Dizzy’s Jazz Club is known for its quality acts. Sip a cocktail in refined surrounds at Der Raum, or celebrate the hops and tour the Carlton & United Breweries’ brewhouse in Abbotsford.

From the city, you’re just 10 minutes from Richmond. Take the number 70 tram from Flinders Street to Swan Street or number 109 from Bourke Street to Victoria Street, number 48 or 75 from Flinders Street to Bridge Road. Alternatively, jump on the train and travel just one stop from Flinders Street Station.

Take a sip of integral Melbourne history in Lygon Street, Carlton. Carlton was the place where the city’s famous café culture was born with the arrival of Melbourne’s first espresso machine at one of the street’s Italian-owned cafes in the 1950s.

Melbourne’s own Little Italy is crammed with double-storey Victorian terraces featuring endless cafes and restaurants serving steaming bowls of pasta, espresso and delicious gelati. Charming waiters will try and entice you to step inside or take a seat for sidewalk service. Old favourites like Tiamo and University Café are as warm and welcoming as they are traditionally tasty.

Further down Lygon Street you’ll find bookshops, galleries and plenty of shops selling the latest European and Australian fashions. The crowd here is mixed, from students at the nearby university to the literary set buying up big at Readings bookstore and older Italian men just watching the world go by. Don’t miss the Lygon Street Festa in October – a celebration of traditional and contemporary Italian culture and one of Australia’s largest outdoor street festivals.

For a taste of Melbourne’s history, take a walk through Carlton Gardens and the World Heritage listed Royal Exhibition Building and on into the Melbourne Museum, which houses everything from dinosaur bones and Melbourne Cup hero Phar Lap, to a full set from popular TV soap, Neighbours. It also features touring exhibitions and the spectacular IMAX movie experience.

Take some time to explore the Melbourne General Cemetery, final resting place of some larger than life Australians including Burke and Wills, Eureka Stockade activist Peter Lalor and one-time Prime Minister Robert Menzies.

Head to Carlton on tram number 1 or 22 heading north from Swanston Street or bus numbers 20, 201, 203 or 207 from Melbourne Central.