When coming up with Getaway's "Best things to do in Australia" episode, it was difficult to know when to stop. We had to draw the line somewhere, but we've made a list of other places and things you might like to think about for your next holiday. View the pictures here
Animal adventures
If you love animals, Australia is blessed with some world-class zoos. Every capital city has one it's proud of and there are also open-range style zoos, such as Monarto in South Australia, Werribee in Victoria and Dubbo in New South Wales. They let you see amazing animals in their natural environments, without having to travel to other parts of the world.Another wonderful animal adventure is to take the family on a farmstay. Many farming people open their properties to city-slickers, and it's fun and educational all round. It can be an eye-opener for city children to see where most of their food comes from, how far many country children have to travel to get to school and that there just isn't a hamburger shop around the corner. Everyone pitches in and hopefully recognises that life on the land is hard work but very rewarding.
Outback outings
The outback is the stuff Australia is made of. Western Australia's glorious Kimberley, the Northern Territory's Kakadu, the famous Birdsville in Queensland and Broken Hill in the far west of New South Wales are noteworthy. They all have something wonderful to offer: fabulous sunsets, friendly people, colours just not seen in the city, and who knows, you just might find the Black Stump.Active escapades
If floating silently above it all in a hot-air balloon seems a bit tame and you are ready for an adrenaline rush, there are lots of ways to do that on land, in the air or sea. Get behind the wheel of a fast car or ride a really fast bike. Learn to fly a helicopter. Jet boat rides are a favourite and they are found all around the country, at beaches, and in rivers and harbours.
Theme parks
Queensland's Gold Coast springs to mind. They have everything covered. Movies, action, slides, rides — they are all there with something to entertain young, old, tall, short, brave and a little cautious.Island holidaysIf an island holiday tickles your fancy, Queensland seems to have everyone's share. There are dozens of them, each with something different to offer. Most are in the Whitsundays, but extend way up to Lizard Island past Cairns. Some are just right for families — some are for romantic couples. Imagine your idea of a perfect holiday and you will find the right island for you.
Foodie vacations
There's no argument that Australia has made its mark in a competitive world of food and wine. Where to start? South Australia has the Barossa, Clare Valley and Coonawarra. Victoria has the Yarra Valley, New South Wales has the Hunter and Western Australia has Margaret River. Other states grow varieties and the whole of Australia is sprinkled with vineyards producing palatable drops.
Skiing and other sports
This amazing country is not all about beaches, rides and good wines. New South Wales and Victoria have excellent snow skiing and boarding. Easily accessible, they offer world-class snow, accommodation and the après skiing is pretty good.
Climb the Sydney Harbour Bridge or Brisbane's Story Bridge, go to an AFL game or cricket match at the MCG, certainly Victoria's sacred turf. Mind you, every city and town has a sportsground it believes is the best in the country and there is always something happening there.
What else?
Beaches and fabulous eating don't really need to be mentioned. We all know how spoilt we are, and word's out.Enjoy it all — just the two of you or the herd, a group of your closest pals or on your own. You're bound to meet friendly travellers and have an adventure to remember. ,
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