Whether you’re heading to the snow for the first time or returning for a yearly alpine escape, Talbingo is one of the best base locations for visiting Kosciuszko National Park and nearby snowfields like Selwyn Snow Resort.
At Aussie Chillout’s Pether Cottage, we host winter travellers every season. This complete guide covers snow driving tips, gear hire, park passes, accommodation, and the best nearby snowfields for a safe, easy, and unforgettable snow holiday in Talbingo.
Snow Holiday Car Preparation & Driving Tips
Driving in alpine and snowy conditions requires preparation. Before heading into the Snowy Mountains, make sure your vehicle is winter-ready.
Essential Snow Driving Tips:
Carry and fit snow chains when required in alpine areas
Lift windscreen wipers when parked to prevent freezing
Avoid using the handbrake overnight in freezing conditions
Use proper de-icing methods instead of hot water on windscreens
Disability Care Worker to Business Owner: Chillout Like A Local In Australia
Talking Travel with Aussie Chillout – David and Hilary Harris Owner / Manager. I (David Harris) went from being a disability care worker for 22 years. In 2010 I attempted to make a business of short term rental accommodation. This did not quite work out. I had to go back doing salary work as an employment consultant for 2 years from 2013-2014. Above all I wanted to be my own boss. Accordingly, I left work to manage my own business in 2014 and I have not looked back. On 22 February 2018, it went from our personal names to Aussie Chillout. So that I could move forward getting direct bookings. It also gives the opportunity to social media marketing and blogs. Chillout Like A Local In Australia.
Due diligence has meant that I have been able to purchase 7 modest accommodation properties since 1990 to 2014. At one time or another they have either been our principal place of residence, permanent rentals or short term rentals. People think that you have to have a lot of money to purchase property. I only need a cash deposit once and the rest of properties the equity was deposit. The properties purchased range from $48,000 up to $379,00.
David and Hilary Harris of Aussie Chillout Pty Ltd – Short Stay Holiday Rentals around Australia
What sector of the travel and tourism industry are you engaged in?
Subsequently we own and manage 7 short term holiday rental properties around Australia in partnership with my wife Hilary. They are in 3 States and 6 Geographical Locations. So it makes life interesting when dealing with 3 different states and 6 councils with legislation and COVID-19. Thus we have a wealth of experience when talking travel with Aussie Chillout.
I have been approached by others to manage their properties as STR but stated that I was not interested. The main reasons being that I don’t want to become a slave to a business and be responsible for other’s properties. Plus, I did not want to go through hassle of getting the necessary real estate licenses and pay GST on property management fees. It is hard enough running a business let alone more compliance. The other reason is that I want a work / life balance and enjoy family & church.
What does your job involve?
On a daily basis as an owner property manager I check bookings, follow up on emails, SMS and OTA messages from guests. Also reconciliation of bank accounts in Xero. SMS to cleaners re: bookings. Arrange repairs and maintenance as required. This is not time consuming.
I find a work / life balance. But if I have time, I do a TO DO LIST. This can be dropped for family and friends and is flexible. I might do improvements on website, SEO, blogs, social media, digital marketing and FaceBook advertising. There is always something to do to improve Aussie Chillout.
If I am doing a road trip, I’ll check the properties and replace items in kitchen, arrange for trades person or handyman re: repairs and maintenance, buy furniture etc.
What do you enjoy most about your profession?
I love talking travel with Aussie Chillout. It is a joy having my own business and being my own boss. Also making my own hours around my life. This is freedom to me. A lot of business you become a slave to a geographical location, such as, a shop or factory. I can do business while travelling and holidaying. All I need is a mobile phone, computer, iPad, internet and WiFi. It is flexible. A lot of processes are automated i.e. instant booking and automated emails / SMS. It has meant that I can travel overseas to places like South Africa, Canada and USA. I can still do business on cruise ships. That is what I enjoy.
Talking travel with Aussie Chillout is my dream job. It is something that I am passionate about.
How has the COVID-19 pandemic affected your business/businesses?
The biggest impact of COVID-19 was the cancellations, refunds of $5,700 plus, credit vouchers for future bookings and lack of income from March to May 2020. I had to take the drastic step of ringing 3 mortgage institutions and not making weekly mortgage payments. Other than that, I have been able to pay all other bills.
International travellers and non-essential travellers in Australia cancelled bookings.
Subsequently I could only do essential travellers: workers, students, international visitors trapped in Australia, interstate travellers trapped, compassionate reasons. I had to think outside the box and market differently for social distance stays of 1 and 2 weeks to gain essential stays. As a result it meant dropping the prices but this meant getting bookings where individuals did not state truth of reason for stay and I had issues. I had to deal with police a few times from neighbours dobbing in essential travellers. Furthermore police were very understanding during this time.
Since the 1st June 2020 the bookings are coming back. Great news!
What are the biggest challenges for you in your profession? Chillout Like A Local In Australia
One of the biggest challenges is Online Travel Agents. For example: Airbnb, HomeAway, Expedia Group and Booking.com. Without a doubt they have been very controlling and often favour the guests. They make up their own cancellation policies which favour themselves and guests. OTAs don’t respect the cancellation policies of owners, hosts and property managers. OTAs have suffered under COVID-19 and have had to lay off workers. Maybe they might have more respect for owners. If they did not have owners they would not have a business where they can offer STR accommodation to guests.
I am based on the Gold Coast. So I manage the properties from afar and I have to trust the cleaners to manage my properties locally. Sometimes this is challenging. I have had to make some tough decisions.
Budget can be challenging. As a result I need to prioritise and plan capital improvements. Such as, new bathrooms, kitchens, furniture and replacing carpet with vinyl planks. Simultaneously also attending to repairs and maintenance.
Disrespectful guests are a pain sometimes. Plus checking out the competition and marketing properties at a competitive rate.
What do you think are the biggest immediate challenges the industry faces?
State Government legislation rolling out will be the biggest game changer. It means that the short-term rental accommodation sector will become more professional. To this end registering and implementing the legislation will change the industry. Owner hosts that have not been professional in their approach may fall by the wayside and decide not to register. So the owner / managers that are professional will thrive as there won’t be a flood of accommodation on the market.
COVID-19 will have a huge impact on the travel industry. Implementing COVID-19 plans including cleaning etc. In the short-term Aussies will be chilling out like a local in Australia. Especially as international travel to Australia will be restricted until they find a vaccine. Aussies that have made plans to travel overseas or take cruises have changed their plans to travel in Australia. Some states have border restrictions which need to be lifted to encourage tourism and travel again in Australia.
Australian Domestic Flight Travel: Chillout Like A Local In Australia
Qantas and Jetstar will be gradually bring back in flights. Subsequently this will make it easier to travel and stay in short term rental accommodation in Australia again. Similarly travel will resume between Australia and New Zealand as we have got COVID-19 under control. In the meantime we don’t want to open up international travel if it means it is not safe for Australian citizens. Consequently travel and tourism will go backwards again.
Guest confidence in safety and cleanliness of properties and booking again with confidence. Borders need to open and domestic flight travel to resume.
What do you think will be the biggest game changer in the travel industry in the next 12 months?
Online Travel Agents (OTAs) has been hugely impacted by COVID-19. As a result they will have to reassess their business model and accordingly owners and property managers will be more respected. In conclusion owners, hosts and property managers will have to make adjustments over the next 12 months.
Personally the thing that I want to change in the next 12 months is to be less reliant on OTAs. I want to learn and improve website, SEO, digital marketing and social media. This includes FaceBook / Instagram / LinkedIn, blogs and FaceBook advertising. The last 12 months I have had 11-12% of Direct Bookings (phone, SMS, email and website). So the next 12 months I want 30% to be direct bookings. Accordingly this will be a game changer.
What are some of the drawcards of the Aussie Chillout locations?
Talbingo NSW: one of the most picturesque villages in Australia. Blowering, Jounama and Talbingo Dams are nearby. Two dams you can boat and fish. Great water in creeks and waterfalls. Challenging bush walks through Kosciusko National Park and Bargo State Forest. Interesting towns in surrounding areas plus Yarrangobilly Caves.
Cessnock NSW: gateway to the Hunter Valley and the 2nd largest vineyards in Australia (Pokolbin and Lovedale). Hunter Valley Gardens, Hunter Valley Zoo, joy flights, hot air ballooning, wine tasting, cheese, olives, chocolate, restaurants, cafes and intriguing shops. Antiques, art and specialty shops. Day trips to Newcastle, Maitland, Wollombi and Port Stephens.
Salamander Bay NSW: centrally located in the Port Stephens peninsula. Lots of surf and bay beaches, swimming, boating, scuba diving, golf, dolphin and whale watching. Spectacular views from Tomaree National Park. Lots to see and do, markets, restaurants and cafes.
Manilla NSW: regional town near Tamworth NSW. Country music festival, Namoi and Peel River join at Manilla. Great for swimming, fishing and white-water drifting. Paragliding and gliders, Lake Keepit and Split Rock Reservoir. Lots of interesting day trips and hikes through national parks and state forests.
Coolum Beach QLD: Sunshine Coast. 15-minute drive from Noosa and Maroochydore. Beaches galore. Learn to surf or go on boat ride. Shopping, restaurants and cafes, Ginger Factory and Bli Bli water park. Easy drive for travelling from Brisbane and Gold Coast.
Midland WA: (near Perth). Centrally located. Easy 30-minute drive or train trip to Perth. 250 metre from shops, restaurants and cafes. Great location for overseas families visiting uni students. Other reasons to stay include hospital stays for loved ones while getting treatment at Midland Hospital. Perth Hills, historic Guilford and Swan Valley Wineries are places to visit. Go see an Aussie Rules game.
Chillout Like A Local In Australia.
If you could travel anywhere within Australia, what would that holiday look like for you? Talking Travel with Aussie Chillout
Hilary (wife) and I would love to visit places like the Kimberleys and Uluru. We have travelled overseas and in Australia. You can talk travel with Aussie Chillout anytime. Please engage with us.
Of all the 7 properties my 2 favourite places are Talbingo NSW and Coolum Beach QLD. Talbingo NSW: I love nature and walking and exploring Kosciusko National Park. Jounama Creek, waterfalls and Yarrangobilly Caves are some of my favourite places. Coolum Beach QLD on the Sunshine Coast my favourite things to do is go to beach, walk through Noosa National Park and climb Mount Coolum. The restaurants and cafes are fantastic. Noosa is an easy 15-minute drive.
Chillout Like A Local In Australia
This same article is at Travel Monitor. The content above is my own. I supplied the article to Travel Monitor for publication.
Fire to New Regrowth – Isolation to Celebrating Holidays Again
The tourism industry in Australia has copped a beating in the last several months. This has been due to drought, dust, fire, rain, flood and now COVID-19. This addition of Aussie Chillout News looks at this impact on Australian tourism. It is not just accommodation but restaurants, cafes, fast food, retail shops, tourist attractions etc. Lots of local businesses are suffering or have gone under.
READ MORE about Aussie Chillout and how we have survived and now message of hope …
It has also been encouraging to see Australians being generous and supporting others during this time. But if you really want to support Australian Accommodation and Tourism have a holiday in Australia during 2020 and 2021 when restrictions are lifted. This will be different for each state. Our accommodation is in NSW, QLD and WA. Overseas travel will not happen in 2020. Though New Zealand and Australia may open up borders before Christmas which would be exciting if that happened. The world is watching our progress.
NSW Drought: Lake Keepit Dam swimming spot has dried up
Drought – Aussie Chillout Newsletter:
Drought in 2019 halved our bookings in regional areas. In particular Manilla Cottage – Manilla NSW (near Tamworth). Dam levels, fish stock and tourism dramatically impacted. If it wasn’t for Tamworth Country Music Festival and some regular sheep shearers staying. The drought impacted on Manilla accommodation.
Talbingo Fire – 4 January 2020
Fire – Aussie Chillout News:
One of our places in Talbingo NSW on north western side of Kosciusko National Park was surrounded by bush fire on the 4th January 2020. 2-3 houses burnt down but Pether Cottage NSW was OK. We had to refund a booking and another gave a rain check. The major problem is that Mount Selwyn Snow Field burnt down and will not be operating this winter. So along with fire, COVID-19 and no Mount Selwyn Snowfield this will impact on bookings for Pether Cottage – Talbingo NSW in 2020. We have a new cleaner: Christine who is making the cottage spick and span during May 2020. We are making an effort to get the Aussie Chillout Newsletter more regularly.
Flood level in back courtyard at Growder Court 3 – Coolum Beach
Flood – Aussie Chillout Newsletter::
Growder Court 3 – Coolum Beach QLD suffered a torrential downpour and ground floor got flooded on 12 February 2020. We had guests watching TV and the water flowed in below their feet. We had no loss of furniture. For 2 weeks we closed Growder Court 3. while the insurance company treated the wall for dampness and carpet was replaced with vinyl slabs. Looks great!
COVID-19
COVID-19 – Aussie Chillout News:
Personally we had a bumper Christmas overall. But March, April and May 2020 have been very lean with bookings and we have to drop our tariff dramatically just to attract future bookings for essential travel. We requested to stop mortgage repayments but able to pay all other bills. We paid back $5,000 plus of refunds and $5,000+ in credit vouchers for future stays. Majority of guests have been very understanding. Despite setbacks we will survive and look forward to holiday restrictions lifting.
Essential Stays:
Another option is discounted SOCIAL DISTANCE STAYS of 1-2 weeks or more based on essential travel only. Distance yourself from work, family and friends. Wi-Fi, Netflix, Stan and YouTube and communicate with others through social media. This is how we have survived this period from March to 30 June 2020.
1 Week to 13 days – $525 per week for up to 4 guests
2 Weeks or More – $455 per week for up to 4 guests
Extra adults = $12.50 per night. Extra kids = $8.00 per night
Offer expires 11 June 2020.
Essential Travel Requirements:
Short Stay Holiday Accommodation is not illegal but must have ESSENTIAL TRAVEL REASON TO STAY:
The Australian Government: Department of Health was a daily point of reference to get current information on travel restrictions. This site was essential for our Aussie Chillout News.
►medical or health care needs for hospitals and seeing specialists, including compassionate requirements, funerals etc. Family members supporting other family members with medical or health care needs.
►work and study away from home if you can’t work or learn remotely
►guests required to self-isolate for 14 days
►overseas or domestic guests unable to travel back home due to travel restrictions and no flights
►between homes and relocating within state due to insurance, building homes, travel agents with displaced guests and people in shared houses that want to self-isolate
►high risk health care professionals such as doctors, nurses and ambulance officers etc. who want to safely physical and social distance from their own families
►working extended shifts and require accommodation near their workplaces
Essential Workers
So we have had nurses working in gaols, professionals working on website and restructuring business and FIFO workers. Also 14 days self-isolation before commencing NSW Government job planting trees and medical & health care needs. As well as compassionate reasons, no place to stay while house was being renovated, workers cement rendering an aged care facility etc. This has all helped. We also had non-essential travellers not respecting us as well due to discounted rates. Plus nosey neighbours contacting police as they wanted no visitors even when they were essential stays.
We cannot wait until restrictions are lifted, cabin fever is over, and we can all travel locally again firstly in our own region, then state and then interstate and maybe New Zealand before the end of 2020. Our next Aussie Chillout News will have update on travel restrictions.
Thank you for your support in the past, present and future. AUSSIE CHILLOUT is HOPEFUL!
AUSSIES supporting AUSSIES to CHILLOUT LIKE A LOCAL in Australia Accommodation.
Just threw in some useful links for your Hunter Valley Trip Planning. Also Things To Do in Cessnock:
Maps
Below are the best maps to get your way around the Hunter Valley Vineyards. Thus it is worth taking the time to check out all the maps and start planning your trip.
With Covid-19 it has temporarily put a hold on concerts in the vineyards. Hopefully they will return in 2021. Here are some tips for attending concerts in Pokolbin.
From time to time occasionally they can be held at other venues.
GOLF:
There are 3 premium golf courses below in Pokolbin / Lovedale. Get your friends and family and make a weekend or midweek of golf. Get away from Sydney and enjoy the fresh air.
Things to Do in Midland, Perth WA? The following blog has the
Things to do in Midland, things to do in Swan Valley, things to do in Guildford, things to do in Perth Hills, walking trails in Perth Hills, things to do in Kalamunda and things to do in Mundaring.
Things to do in Midland:
While staying in the Swan Valley, there are lots of shops, restaurants, cafes and movies plus things to do in Midland.
It is only a ten (10)-minute drive from Midland Haven, but its boutique vineyards, fresh local produce and rolling vineyards make it feel like a different world. Find more than 40 world-class wineries, 6 breweries, 2 distilleries, gourmet artisan goods, talented local artists, food and craft markets, vibrant studios and more than 40 quality cafes and restaurants. Discover the oldest winemaking region in WA, with the first vines planted more than 180 years ago! An easy drive from Midland makes it the perfect option for day-trippers. Navigate the 32 km scenic loop known as the Swan Valley Food and Wine Trail, which has over 150 attractions. How slow you go and whether you go by tour, bike or car is completely up to you.
One of the best things to do is visit historic Guildford. It was established in 1829 and classified as an historic town by the National Trust of Australia (WA). With its heritage buildings, early settlement and convict history, antique stores, character pubs and village charm, Guildford emits the feel of a bygone era. It is only a 6-minute car drive or 10 – 15 minutes by train or bus.
Grab a bite to eat from the wide range of cafes and restaurants
View what life was like behind bars at the Guildford Gaol, c. 1841, located at Guildford Heritage Precinct and the historic workers’ cottage, Taylor’s Cottage
Visit the impressive Woodbridge House c. 1885, located on the banks of the Swan River in Woodbridge and today operated by the National Trust of Australia (WA)
Cycle Trails: Perth Hills. An extensive network of cycle paths and trails offers challenging mountain biking and scenic wildflower rides. Plus bike hire.
Perth Hills Arts & Culture. Perth Hills has a large and diverse range of local artists and galleries. Come immerse yourself in the culture and discover local artists.
Perth Hills History. Located in the Darling Scarp, Perth Hills has a fascinating history. Come discover and explore our amazing heritage.
Local Produce at Perth Hills. A basket of variety and delights! From local stalls on farms and orchards to our weekly farmers’ market. Locally grown produce – fresh and direct to you!
Kalamunda Markets. The Perth Hills offer a fantastic weekend destination that allows the public to purchase a variety of fresh produce and foods direct from producers. Check out the following Kalamunda markets: Farmers Market, Artisan Market and Night Market.
Salamander Bay Stay and Play Golf Package. Stay in Condo 105 with Aussie Chillout, located on the Horizons Golf Resort premises. Play Golf while you stay at Horizons Golf Resort.
Package Highlights:
Stay at Condo 105 located on the Horizons Golf Resort premises. It is a two-bedroom self-contained condo that sleeps up to eight guests.
Play golf at Horizons Golf Resort one of Australia’s top 100 courses
Enjoy views over golf course and enjoy the company of the resident kangaroos, birds and other wildlife
Visit and enjoy everything that Port Stephens and Nelson Bay have to offer while playing a round of golf.
A perfect getaway for couples, family or groups of friends. Enjoy your stay in our charming Condo 105 @ Horizons Golf Resort premises, where you can have a BBQ overlooking the course, play golf and watch Netflix and Stan at night. Chill and play golf; enjoy wildlife and the sounds of birds; and have a BBQ and drink overlooking the golf course. It is worth the Salamander Bay Stay and Play Golf Package.
What’s Included?
Stay for up to 8 in a self-contained condo. Minimum of 2 nights.
4 players with shared golf carts for one round of 18 holes, or
2 players with shared golf cart for one round of 18 holes
Golf add-ons can be purchased for discounted rate after booking
Access to the golf course (Monday to Sunday) from 7 am to 3 pm starts
Chill and Play Golf
Enjoy a wonderful golf experience at Condo 105 located on the Horizons Golf Resort premises. Salamander Bay Stay and Play Golf Package: the sessions start every 7 minutes from 7 am through to 3 pm daily.
Relax and rejuvenate with your partner, family or group of friends
Chill and play golf to get away from lockdown and hectic life
Terms and Conditions:
Accommodation is available all year round. Minimum of 2 nights. Subject to availability
Monday – Sunday golf is available subject to weather
Looking for a Coolum Beach Stay and Learn to Surf Package?
Coolum Beach Stay and Learn to Surf Package. Stay at Growder Court 3 with Aussie Chillout, located in a quiet location in North Coolum Beach, QLD. It’s a 7-minute walk to the beach. While staying in our accommodation, learn to surf with Coolum Surf School.
Coolum Beach Stay and Learn to Surf Package Highlights:
Stay at Growder Court 3, located in Coolum Beach, QLD. It is a three-bedroom self-contained townhouse that sleeps up to eight guests.
Learn to surf with Coolum Surfing School. Family-owned and operated business for over 15 years.
Enjoy the sun and surf of Coolum Beach. Great place to walk and be refreshed by the ocean breeze, shops, restaurants and cafes.
Visit and enjoy everything that the Sunshine Coast has to offer while enjoying this Coolum Beach Stay and Learn to Surf Package at the same time. Other attractions on the Sunshine Coast include Noosa, Hastings Street, Eumundi Markets, Australia Zoo, Glass House Mountains, Maroochydore, Caloundra and Maleny.
Description of Accommodation and Attractions:
This Coolum Beach Stay and Learn to Surf Package includes a stay in Coolum Beach, QLD: Growder Court 3, a three-bedroom, self-contained townhouse. Sleeps up to 8 guests. Ideal for Families, Group of friends and Couples. Less than a 10-minute walk to the beach and shops. 15-20 minute drive to Noosa (north) and Maroochydore (south). Located in a quiet neighbourhood but a short walk to the beach, Coles, restaurants, cafes and shops. Great location for a beach holiday.
Local Activities Include Learning to surf, surfing, climbing Mt Coolum, Noosa, swimming, boating, cruises, fishing, shopping, Eumundi Markets, The Ginger Factory, Australia Zoo, Glass House Mountains and Maleny. So much more for this Coolum Beach Stay and Learn to Surf Package
Features include the internet, Netflix, Stan, a fully equipped kitchen and an outdoor setting with a BBQ.
Coolum Beach, QLD, is a 1-hour and 35-minute drive north of Brisbane.
What’s Included:
The Coolum Beach Stay and Learn to Surf Package includes a stay for up to 8 in a self-contained townhouse. A minimum of 2 nights for a private surf lesson for 4 guests. A minimum of 4 nights for 3 learn-to-surf lessons for guests. We can modify numbers once you have booked and adjusted the Coolum Beach Stay and Learn to Surf Package.
Surfing add-ons can be purchased for discounted rate after booking accommodation
Whether you’re a complete beginner or an advanced surfer, our 1.5 hr private surf lesson caters to your needs. You get to choose the day and the best time to surf. Coolum Surfing School has been a family-owned and operated business since 2001. Their passion is passing on the “stoke” of surfing. Coolum offers some of the warmest waters in Australia to surf in and is located 90 minutes north of Brisbane. Their professional and experienced staff will have you feeling comfortable, confident and ready to feel the natural high of surfing, whilst always having their clients’ safety as their greatest priority.
All surf equipment is supplied, i.e., surfboards, wet shirts, sunscreen, wetsuits (during the winter months)
Accredited surf instructor
Transfers when pre-booked from Growder Court 3 to Tickle Park at Coolum Beach and return
Clients will only need swimwear and a towel, or
Coolum Beach Stay and Surf Package 2: 4 guests – 3 x 2-hour Beginner Surf Lesson over 3 days
4 guests: 3 x 2-hour Beginner Surf Lesson over 3 days. Jump in and learn the basics with a 2 hr beginner surf lesson. Available every day from 10 to 12 noon and 1 to 3pm. All you need is swimmers and a towel. Coolum Surfing School has been a family-owned and operated business since 2001. Their passion is passing on the “stoke” of surfing. Coolum offers some of the warmest waters in Australia to surf in and is located 90 minutes north of Brisbane. Their professional and experienced staff will have you feeling comfortable, confident and ready to feel the natural high of surfing, whilst always having their clients’ safety as their greatest priority.
All surf equipment is supplied. This includes surfboard, wet shirts, sunscreen, wetsuits (during the winter months)
Accredited surf instructor
Transfers when pre-booked from Growder Court 3 to Tickle Park at Coolum Beach and return
Clients will only need swimwear and a towel
Coolum Beach Stay & Learn to Surf Package – Terms and Conditions
Our Coolum Beach Stay & Learn to Surf Package combines quality accommodation with professional surf instruction, giving you the ultimate Aussie coastal experience. Below are the full terms and conditions to help you plan your stay with confidence.
Accommodation Details
Accommodation is available year-round in Coolum Beach, QLD, making it perfect for both peak season holidays and off-peak getaways. A minimum stay of 2 nights applies, and all bookings are subject to availability.
For the Coolum Beach Stay & Learn to Surf Package, Surf lessons are provided in partnership with a trusted local surf school and are scheduled daily (excluding major holidays):
No lessons on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day
Private Surf Lessons (1.5 hours): Available from 6:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Beginner Group Lessons (2 hours):
Morning: 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Afternoon: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
All surf lessons are subject to availability at the time of booking
Booking Process
To ensure a smooth experience, Aussie Chillout will coordinate your surf lesson booking with Coolum Surf School.
Guests are required to provide:
Preferred lesson date, type, and time
Full names, ages, and contact numbers of all participants
A confirmation call will be made 24 hours prior to your lesson by either the surf school or the guest. Please confirm your booking by calling (+61) 438 731 50 between 6:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
Minimum Participants
A minimum of two participants is required for surf lessons to proceed. If this minimum is not met, the lesson may be cancelled or rescheduled.
Weather Policy
Surf lessons operate in most weather conditions, as surfing can often continue safely in light rain or overcast weather.
However, lessons will be cancelled if conditions are deemed unsafe by the surf school or if the beach is officially closed. In such cases:
Lessons will be rescheduled to a suitable time, or
A full refund for the surf lesson will be provided
Important Notes
This package is designed to provide a flexible and enjoyable Sunshine Coast surfing holiday, but all components are subject to availability, weather conditions, and safety requirements. Early booking is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons in Coolum Beach.
Book Your Coolum Beach Surf Getaway
Experience the best of the Sunshine Coast lifestyle with comfortable accommodation and unforgettable surf lessons.
Visit: http://www.aussiechillout.com.au/ to check availability and secure your Coolum Beach Stay & Surf Package today.
Check out our accommodation: Growder Court 3 – Coolum Beach, QLD, is ideally located in the middle of the Sunshine Coast. BOOK DIRECT! Noosa, Maroochydore, Caloundra, Maleny and the hinterland are all within an easy drive.
Kosciusko National Park is Australia’s Largest National Park. It is walking track heaven. They are all within an easy drive of Talbingo. Lots of flora and fauna, nature at its best, spectacular views, waterfalls and white water along the way. Cool off in the summer months and enjoy the great swimming holes and creeks. Click HERE to see map and description of Kosciuszko National Park Walks. To see more detail re: Kosciuszko National Park Tracks click on links below from the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service. They include:
Blue Waterholes
Blue Waterholes Walks: Kosciuszko National Park Tracks
One of my favourite walks. Coolamine Homestead shows you how they used to live back in the 1800s. My highlight is reading the newspapers that was used as wallpaper. It is protected by perspex. The waterholes and gorges are interesting. You can do a bit of climbing, creek crosses and gorges are spectacular. Take torch to check out caves and enjoy a swim in the many waterholes. Walk far enough and you get to a waterfall.
Yarrangobilly Walks: Kosciuszko National Park Tracks
Apart from the Yarrangobilly Limestone Caves, you could spend a whole day enjoying the Yarrangobilly area and river walks. Or enjoy a view at Bluff Lookout. Nothing like a fresh swim in the river or the thermal pool all year round at 27 degrees Celsius. Take a day pack and have a picnic along the way.
Cumberland Range Walks: Kosciuszko National Park Tracks
Bit of a hike from the car park with two-wheel drive. With 4WD you get closer and walk less. The views over Landers Fall Lookout are spectacular, overseeing the waterfall. Walk a bit further and you will have a spectacular view from the mountain over Talbingo and Jounama Dam. It is one of the most spectacular nature views that I have come across in Australia.
Kiandra was established in 1859 / 1860 as a thriving gold rush town of 10,000+. It is now a ghost town. Currently closed due to fires in Dec 19 / Jan 20. The walk has lots of plaques giving the history of the area, buildings and families that established the town. Fantastic piece of history but fires destroyed a lot of that history.
Blowering Foreshore Walks: Kosciuszko National Park Tracks
The dam at Blowering is the site of the world water speed record of 511 km/h (318 mph). This was achieved by Australian Ken Warby in the Spirit of Australia in 1978. The record still holds today. Around Blowering Dam you have walks through the plantation pine forest of Bago State Forest. The other side has Worogong, Sugarloaf and Blowering Cliffs with views over Blowering Dam.
Talbingo Area Walks: Kosciuszko National Park Tracks
These are the closest walks to Talbingo, NSW. Jounama Creek is Talbingo’s fresh water source. Nice swimming holes and a bit of white water for a natural spa bath. The most famous water fall around Talbingo is Buddong Falls. You drive around T2 Power Station and a bit of drive. Take it carefully in two-wheel drive. If the weather is wet and treacherous, then 4WD is best. Worth the trip and walk.
Best of the Best Websites for Other Kosciuszko National Park Tracks
Below are other great websites and blogs for the best of the best of Kosciuszko National Park tracks. There are some maps included as well. There is a link to a trip intention form for safety reasons. As enjoyable as nature walks can be, it is best to inform others of your intentions just in case something goes wrong. A lot of the walks below may be a 30-minute to 2.5-hour drive away from Talbingo.
Check out our Talbingo NSW Accommodation at Pether Cottage. It is an easy drive for all the above Northern Kosciusko National Park Walking Tracks. Great day to enjoy nature, keep fit and take in the fresh air to enjoy our Australian national parks.
