Set in the picturesque upper reaches of the Blackwood River Valley, Balingup is an inspiration to many artisans, from artists and crafts people to wine makers and providors of gourmet produce. Follow one of Western Australia's top tourist drives, or take to the walking trails to sample the riches this region has to offer. Take the two hours and 40-minute drive south of Perth to reach the forests, winding rivers, rolling hills, vineyards and lush orchards of Balingup. Or, enjoy the journey at a slower pace, walking the Bibbulmun Track - one of the world's greatest long-distance trails, stretching almost 1,000 kilometres from Kalamunda in Perth to Albany on the south coast. The track meanders through Balingup's Golden Valley Tree Park - a six-hectare collection of trees from around the world that forms the largest arboretum in Western Australia. Here, you can find beauty in every season, from moody winter mists, to spring blossoms and the golden glow of autumn leaves. Venturing further afield, the top rated Blackwood River Tourist Drive takes in some of the region's most scenic landscapes, fascinating historical landmarks, top fishing spots and pretty picnic areas. The best of the Blackwood's art, craft, handcrafted pottery, jewellery, sculpture, alpaca knitwear, herbal products, antiques and collectables can all be discovered in and around the village, not to mention a tempting array of cafes, bakeries, restaurants, fresh produce and local wines. You'll be just as spoilt for choice if you decide to make Balingup your base for a country escape, with a wide range of family-friendly accommodation and romantic retreats to choose from.

Just over an hour's drive from Adelaide, the Yorke Peninsula has a wealth of experiences waiting for you. With its distinctive “boot” shape, the Yorke Peninsula boasts more than 700 kilometres of coastline. It's easy to find the perfect beach to get away from the rat race. You might even find a well kept secret fishing spot or perfect swell to surf. With the waters of Gulf St Vincent on the east and Spencer Gulf on the west, fresh seafood is everywhere you turn! Dine on blue swimmer crabs plucked fresh from the sea or try your luck at catching your own fish from a jetty. The ocean provides great fun and history. At the turn of the twentieth century, many ships sank along the treacherous coast. Learn about the boats and crews at the local museums or dive at sunken vessels. The Yorke Peninsula features historic towns and landmarks. The town of Minlaton is known in some circles as the "barley capital of the world". The region's rich limestone soil makes it some of the best farmland in Australia. The region's parks give you a chance to take in the picture postcard beauty of the region. There are native plants and animals in abundance. You can spend your nights in a holiday home, caravan park or out camping. You'll find something for every budget and holiday plan. There are two accredited Visitor Information Centres on the Yorke Peninsula. These centres are open seven days a week and will provide you with any information you might need for your travels. From the Hummock Ranges in the east, across to Port Broughton in the north, Yorke Peninsula is the traditional home of the Adjahdura people. In 1919, World War One pilot Captain Harry Butler, made the first airmail flight from Adelaide to the Yorke Peninsula. He was the first man to fly over water in the southern hemisphere. Captain Butler's Red Devil Bristol monoplane rests in a display hangar in Minlaton. It is believed to be the only genuine one of its kind left in the world.

At the end of the Birdsville Track is the frontier town of Birdsville, one of Outback Australia’s most recognised towns. Deep in the heart of wild and isolated country, Birdsville is situated between the eastern edge of the Simpson Desert, the vast gibber plains of Sturt’s Stony Desert to the south and rich Channel Country to the north. Once a notorious place through which cattle drovers moved their stock, Birdsville is a thriving community where you can enjoy a cold drink at the iconic Birdsville Hotel, try your taste buds on a curried camel pie, back a winner at the world-renowned Birdsville Races or dance the day away at the Birdsville Big Red bash. Watch the sunset over Big Red, the tallest sand dune in the Simpson Desert or spend an unforgettable day with family and friends at the Birdsville billabong, where birdlife, fish, yabbies and marsupials abound. If you’ve always wanted to visit this iconic destination, now is the time to tick Birdsville off your bucket list.

Bringing together a world-class museum, a shrine and an extensive archive, the Australian War Memorial in Canberra is a moving and insightful experience for both young and old. Discover the diverse Australian experiences of war and connect with the stories of people and events that shaped Australia. With the purpose of commemorating the sacrifice of Australians who have died in the war, the Memorial is a place to pay your respects and discover what it means to be Australian. Ninety-minute guided tour available at 10 am, 10.15 am, 11 am, 12 pm, 1 pm and 2 pm daily.

Small enough to be able to regularly reinvent itself, big enough to offer something for everyone, South Australia’s capital is at the forefront of culture, arts, food and events, and is leaving others behind. Blessed with beautiful beaches minutes away, world-class wine regions on its doorstep and a pioneering culture that keeps moving forward, the city has an immense sense of space surrounding its grand colonial architecture and expansive parklands. So, unlike other capital cities, you never feel the hustle and bustle here. Known as a city that loves to party, the capital is a great host, and lively festivals decorate the city’s calendar throughout the year, celebrating food, culture, sport and the arts. The locals are a proud lot, and enjoy healthy competition between other cities and states for recognition of their exports. The land on which Adelaide stands today was inhabited by the Kaurna Aboriginal tribe until Europeans arrived in 1836 and proclaimed the province of South Australia. Adelaide was planned as an easily navigable grid pattern and today consists of mostly wide streets around central Victoria Square. On the outskirts is a ring of parklands, keeping the city green. Its cultural mix ensures there is a plethora of diverse dining on offer, and passionate locals guarantee it is always matched with a drop from one of the regional wine districts, such as the Barossa or Adelaide Hills. You are spoiled for choice in this easy-to-visit city, where recreation is king and there is always something to celebrate.