Other Attractions
Zoos | Aquariums | Sanctuaries | Theme Parks | Other Attractions
Science Works, Melbourne
This is the place to come to ‘push it, pull it, spin it, bang it’ with hands-on exhibitions on all kinds of science-related stuff. Also in the complex is the Melbourne Planetarium, with simulated night skies which allow you to explore the breathtaking stars and planets of the universe. There is also a fun 3D adventure through space to enjoy.
Williamstown, Melbourne
www.museumvictoria.com.au/scienceworks
Whale World, Albany
Whale World is the only whaling museum in the world created from a working whaling station. You can see the restored boat Cheynes IV which they used to chase whales with, enormous whale skeletons, the old whale-processing factory and an aircraft display. They also have the world’s largest collection of whale paintings and a 3D film on the giant creature.
Albany, Western Australia
Australian Stockman’s Hall of Fame and Outback Heritage Centre, Longreach
This impressive centre was developed as a tribute to the men and women who opened up outback Australia for settlement, industry and agriculture. It deals with everything from Australia’s indigenous heritage, the challenges of outback education and communication through to the life of the modern-day stockman. Highlights include a photo gallery and an old blacksmith’s shop.
Longreach, Queensland
Sovereign Hill, Ballarat
Sovereign Hill is a recreated goldmining town, complete with authentically dressed townspeople and horse-drawn carts rumbling over the cobblestones. Panning for gold is a popular activity, while the evening ‘Blood on the Southern Cross’ show re-enacts the Eureka Rebellion through an explosion of light and fire effects. You can also take rides in horse-drawn carts, or explore the gold mines.
Ballarat, Victoria
Riversleigh Fossil Site, near Burketown
The fossils in this World Heritage-listed part of Boodjamulla (Lawn Hill) National Park record the evolution of mammals over 20 million years. The ancestors of marsupials including moles, bandicoots, marsupial lions, koalas, wombats, kangaroos and possums have all been found here. Guided tours provide an insight into this ancient world, or you can just go exploring on your own.
Boodjamulla NP, Queensland
Ginger Factory
The Ginger Factory is a real taste of Queensland and a fun place for the whole family to visit. Every school holidays The Ginger Factory Kids Club has a great program of activities for kids of all ages, with magic shows, entertainment and cooking lessons. It truly is an awesome school holiday destination.
Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Port Arthur Historic Site
Over 12 000 convicts from Britain, some of whom did nothing more than steal some food to survive, were shipped to Port Arthur many, many years ago. Over 30 buildings and restored ruins sit on this large site, revealing how life was for the convicts and their guards. Spooky lantern-lit historical ghost tours depart at dusk, and you can also take a tour to the Isle of the Dead, which is the cemetery for the colony. Not for those scared of the dark.
Tasman Peninsula, Tasmania
Coober Pedy
Coober Pedy supplies around 80 per cent of the world’s gem-quality opals. Around 90 years ago, some of the soldiers returning from World War I first established the town’s unique underground style of living. Today, much of the population calls these ‘dugouts’ home – ideal places to escape the extremely hot summer temperatures and cold winter nights. Attractions of the town include the Umoona Underground Mine and Museum and the original 1916 Old Timers Mine. Coober Pedy is certain to be an interesting trip for the whole family.
Coober Pedy, South Australia
Q1
Q1 is the tallest residential building in the world. The Q1 Observation Deck gives breathtaking panoramic views from Brisbane to Byron Bay at 230m above sea level. If you have the energy, try and walk up all 1331 stairs– it’s not easy! For a quicker option, zip up to the top in 42.7 seconds aboard the express elevator. When you get to the Qdeck, relax and have snack at Qbar.
Surfers Paradise, Queensland
Rottnest Island
The quokka is a small marsupial only found in Western Australia and around 10 000 of them take refuge on Rottnest Island. They are semi nocturnal, furry and grow to the size of a rabbit, and sometimes will hop right up to you. For the best view of these little creatures find the signs about a kilometre south of Thomson Bay, just before Kingstown Barracks, or search the area along the boardwalk at Garden Lake. Rottnest Island is a great place to explore– you can hire a bike and ride from one beach to the next while keeping an eye out for the great sea birds that fly overhead.
Rottnest Island, Western Australia
