SPECIAL ADVERTISEMENT SUPPLEMENT
FOLLOW
YOUR SPORT
TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
WIN
ay to
a fantastic holid tch
a
w
Melbourne to
England play
Australia!
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
CONTINUE YOUR SUMMER OF
SPORT
DOWN UNDER
If you love becoming immersed
in England’s summer sporting
highlights, why not indulge
your passion by following
up with a trip to Melbourne
and a chance to witness
world-class sports events at
first hand as part of your trip?
Details correct at time of going to press. Check with the relevant venue before purchasing a ticket or setting off.
CONTENTS
2-3 CONTINUE YOUR SUMMER OF SPORT
DOWN UNDER
Head to Melbourne for a sporting extravaganza.
4-5 TOP THINGS TO DO IN MELBOURNE
Discover the delights of this vibrant city.
6-7 THE RUGBY LEAGUE WORLD CUP
The biggest sporting event in Australia in 2017.
8-9 THE MELBOURNE CUP CARNIVAL
The pinnacle of the Australian racing calendar.
10-11 THE ASHES
Cricket’s greatest rivalry returns to Melbourne when
Australia take on England.
12-13 THE AUSTRALIAN OPEN
The world’s greatest athletes dominate the courts.
14-15 THE FORMULA 1 AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX
Edge-of-the-seat F1 racing set against the stunning
Melbourne skyline.
16-17 MORE SPORTING HIGHLIGHTS
From cycling and hockey to sailing and surfing.
18 EXTEND YOUR STAY AND HIT THE ROAD
Explore Melbourne and Victoria on a road trip.
19 COMPETITION
Your chance to win a trip to Melbourne to watch
England v Australia in the Rugby League World Cup.
H
ave you, like many Britons,
loved the gripping on-course
action and the glamour of
Royal Ascot and relish the prospect of
a summer of sport ahead, from the
dramas of Wimbledon’s Centre Court
to the thrills and spills of Silverstone and
the British Grand Prix? Whether you’ll
have the good fortune to attend one of
Britain’s many great sports events over
the summer, or you’re planning to enjoy
them as an armchair spectator,
witnessing the world’s finest sportsmen
and women in action is an experience
not to be missed.
Imagine, then, combining such
riveting entertainment with a holiday in
one of the world’s most exhilarating
destinations, in a vibrant, cosmopolitan
city surrounded by some of the most
incredible landscapes on earth. Picture
yourself in the stands at some of sport’s
most hallowed venues, watching a
sporting extravaganza unfold before
your eyes, all in the heart of the city, a
short walk from central hotels or a tram
or train ride away.
When you book a holiday in
Melbourne this winter, you’ll not only
enjoy a balmy southern hemisphere
summer, but you’ll have the chance to
soak up the atmosphere at major
international events such as the
Formula 1 Australian Grand Prix, The
Ashes, The Melbourne Cup Carnival,
the Rugby League World Cup and the
Australian Open, while exploring this
captivating city, known as the
gateway to Australia, and the
fascinating state of Victoria.
There is no better time to discover the
delights of Melbourne and its environs.
Compact enough to explore
comfortably on foot, by tram or by
bicycle, it’s a city that welcomes visitors
with a warm embrace, inviting you to
join the locals as they enjoy a laid-back
lifestyle with a chic café culture, vibrant
arts scene and stylish shopping.
From the beautiful Botanical Gardens
and the beaches of St Kilda to cultural
highlights and a cosmopolitan
nightlife, Melbourne is a city of
contrasts with a colourful, beguiling
character. And, it nestles at the heart of
Victoria, which boasts some of
Australia’s most celebrated scenery,
AT A GLANCE
RUGBY LEAGUE WORLD CUP
Opening match (Aus v Eng)
October 27, 2017
Quarter-final November 19, 2017
THE EMIRATES MELBOURNE CUP
November 7, 2017
THE ASHES
December 26-30, 2017
VOLVO OCEAN RACE
January 2, 2018
AUSTRALIAN OPEN TENNIS
January 15-28, 2018
CADEL EVANS GREAT OCEAN ROAD RACE
January 28, 2018
AUSTRALIAN FORMULA 1 GRAND PRIX
March 2018
Melbourne Cricket Ground, captured by SDP
FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM 3
THE HEAT OF
COMPETITION
(clockwise from
above): MCG,
venue for The
Ashes; the
Australian
Formula 1 Grand
Prix; the Cadel
Evans Great Ocean
Road Race.
Opposite, main
picture, an aerial
view of MCG;
the Australian
Open, below
Melbourne
Picture
yourself in the
stands at
some of
sport’s most
hallowed
venues,
watching a
sporting
extravaganza
unfold before
your eyes
from the Great Ocean Road to national
parks and the chance to see koalas,
penguins, whales, platypus and
kangaroos in their natural habitat.
With over 3,000 restaurants, cafés
and bars serving up a mouthwatering
menu of more than 75 different regional
cuisines from around the world, your
appetite will be whetted as you
immerse yourself in life in this
charming city – and beyond. Discover
world-renowned wineries in the Yarra
Valley and Mornington Peninsula, and
tempt your taste buds with delicious
local produce served up in critically
acclaimed restaurants across the state.
In fact, whatever your taste in
holidays, Melbourne offers the perfect
base for a wonderful adventure – with
the bonus of a calendar of world-class
events to enjoy while you’re there.
4 FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM
TOP THINGS
TO DO IN MELBOURNE
Melbourne is consistently voted one of the world’s
most pleasant cities in which to live, and visitors are
quick to immerse themselves in the vibrant culture
of this cosmopolitan community – there’s so much
to see and do while you’re there
A
caffeine hit is often the only
way to start the day, and
Melbourne led the way in the
coffee revolution: connoisseurs and
fledgling flat-white drinkers alike will
enjoy discovering Melbourne’s army of
skilled baristas in a panoply of stylish
cafés – join a Coffee Lovers’ Walk to
glean expert knowledge about beans,
roasting and brewing as you sample
different coffees en route.
Then, what to do with the day ahead?
At the heart of Melbourne lies an
intriguing network of bustling laneways
brimming with creativity and culture.
Lined with colourful street art, this
community of independent boutiques,
cafés and lively bars echoes to the
sounds of buskers and is intrinsic to
the character of the city.
It’s a compact
city that
punches
way above
its weight
and offers
something for
everyone
Discover some of the city’s stylish
boutiques, selling fashion by local
designers, Australian labels and a
range of imported brands. From
elegant occasion wear – ideal for a day
at the Melbourne Cup Carnival – and
catwalk fashion to relaxed linen layers
and beachwear, there’s something to
suit all tastes and budgets.
Spend a leisurely day meandering
the laneways, or book a Hidden
Secrets Tour and join a local guide for
an insider’s take. There’s a host of
specialist tours with knowledgeable
guides sharing expertise on history,
sport or any other subject. Discover
independent art galleries and
museums, or take a street-art tour to
learn about contemporary graffiti. If
you fancy exploring the fringes of this
compact city, a Melbourne by Bike
Tour could take you to cool Fitzroy and
Collingwood, or join locals along the
foreshore in St Kilda.
If you’ve come to Melbourne to enjoy
world-class sports events hosted by
the city, then seize the opportunity to
FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM 5
join a Melbourne Sports Tour, which
takes you behind the scenes at iconic
venues such as the MCG – known to
locals as ‘The G’ – the Rod Laver Arena
and Flemington Racetrack. Chances
are, your visit may coincide with one of
the many festivals hosted in the city:
from music and film to comedy, food
and wine, Melbourne is an ideal venue
for international gatherings and
attracts the world’s leading lights in
their fields to showcase their talents.
Whether you’ve been enjoying a
sporting spectacular, immersing
yourself in local culture or seeing the
sights, taking in panoramic views of
the city from Eureka Skydeck 88 is a
lovely way to round off your day before
dinner. Epicureans will revel in the array
of dining options on offer in Australia’s
culinary heartland. A melting pot of
international cuisines can be found at
all levels, from grab ’n’ go street food to
award-winning fine dining at the hands
of renowned chefs.
Then, join locals as they head for a
night out at one of Melbourne’s
popular rooftop bars. From hip and
kitsch hangouts to sophisticated
cocktail bars, many feature sets from
DJs or live music and some serve food
late into the night. Wherever you end
up, you’ll be a stone’s throw from your
bed for the night in a compact city that
punches way above its weight and
offers something for everyone.
visitmelbourne.com
‘Melburnians
are sports
mad,’ says
local hero
Mark Webber.
‘The climate
allows for a
very outdoor
lifestyle, so
people are
always doing
something’
RIGHT, FROM TOP
1. Explore
Melbourne’s
laneways
2. Relax beachside
in St Kilda
3. Discover
amazing street art
4. Take a hot-air
balloon ride over
the city
5. Enjoy one
of the many
rooftop bars
Opposite: Cycling
is a great way to get
around the city.
Below: Alfresco
eating by the river,
Melbourne style
DON’T MISS
1
2
3
4
5
6 FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM
FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM 7
BEYOND SPORT
OCTOBER 27-DECEMBER 2, 2017
THE RUGBY LEAGUE
WORLD CUP
Head to Melbourne to watch England take on the
home team in the opening match of the Rugby League
World Cup, Australia’s biggest sporting event of 2017
MATCH DAY
START THE DAY
Enjoy pre-match refreshments at The
Beer & Burger Bar in Swan Street,
where there’s a set-price lunch for
any burger, chips and a drink.
ENJOY THE DAY
Take an afternoon stroll and soak up
the atmosphere around the sports
Precinct – the former Olympic Park –
now home to numerous major venues.
R
ugby League fans from across
the globe will descend upon
Australia, New Zealand and
Papua New Guinea for the 15th World
Cup this autumn, with the action
kicking off on the evening of Friday,
October 27 at Melbourne’s stunning,
state-of-the-art AAMI Park Rectangular
Stadium. The opening match will be a
must-see, with England taking on the
PLEASURE DOME:
The futuristic
geodesic AAMI
Park, top, gives
spectators superb
match views, above
EVENT STATS
Opened in May 2010, the 30,000-seater
Rectangular Stadium, officially known
as AAMI Park, features a cutting-edge
geodesic dome roof over the seating
area, offering spectators
unobstructed views of the pitch.
AFTER THE EVENT
Head to the Uitgang Bar in Bridge
Road for a great spot to enjoy local
craft beer, independently made
spirits and Australian wine, and order
a takeaway from a great
neighbourhood pizzeria.
home team and reigning champions in
what will surely be a hard-fought and
passionate game.
Nestling between the Yarra River and
the world-renowned Melbourne Cricket
Ground, the striking Bioframe design of
AAMI Park cuts a distinctive silhouette
on the city skyline, and will be brimming
with atmosphere in this sporting clash
of the titans – the Kangaroos are
currently stationed first and England
are third in the world rankings.
As it’s home to Melbourne Storm, the
local Rugby League team, as well as
Rugby Union team the Melbourne
Rebels, plus Melbourne Victory and
Melbourne Heart, the city’s original
A League football (soccer) team and
their intercity rivals, you may want to
catch more sport at this popular venue
while you’re in town – especially if you
plan on staying around for the World
Cup Quarter Final match being played
at AAMI Park on the afternoon of
Sunday, November 19.
So, grab your team shirt and follow
England to Melbourne this autumn and
enjoy a southern-hemisphere spring
packed with brilliant sport.
visitmelbourne.com
TRYING TIMES
(above and below):
England will be
looking for home
support in the
15th Rugby League
World Cup
You may
want to catch
more sport at
this popular
venue
● After the intense drama and
passion of a rugby international,
head out of the city and
enjoy nature’s embrace in the
breathtaking surroundings of the
Grampians, known as the Garden
of Victoria. This rugged, unspoiled
landscape boasts stunning walking
routes – check out the Grampians
Peaks Trail – taking in spectacular
waterfalls, Aboriginal rock art,
beautiful wild flowers and the
chance to spot kangaroos. The
Brambuk Cultural Centre offers
fascinating insight into local history
and Aboriginal culture, while
the 200km Silo Art Trail is work
in progress, bringing together
international artists with a series of
outdoor murals and installations.
Work up an appetite by heading
out on mountain bikes, rock
climbing or abseiling, then enjoy
the acclaimed tasting menu from
chef Robin Wickens and bed down
for the night at the award-winning
Royal Mail hotel.
8 FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM
FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM 9
NOVEMBER 7, 2017
COMPETITIVE
SPIRIT:
While jockeys
strive for victory,
left, watching
crowds vie in
the fashion
stakes, below
THE MELBOURNE
CUP CARNIVAL
BEYOND SPORT
Join Australia’s most fashionable crowd as they put on
their finery and come out to play at the Melbourne Cup Carnival
C
ome early November, all eyes
are on Melbourne as it plays
host to one of the most
glamorous events in the global sporting
calendar. The Melbourne Cup Carnival
features four thrilling race days: AAMI
Victoria Derby Day, this year on
November 4, Emirates Melbourne Cup
Day (November 7), VRC Oakes Day
(November 9) and Emirates Stakes Day
WINNING STREAK:
Nearly all
Australians down
tools in November
for the Melbourne
Cup, above
RACE DAY
START THE DAY
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at the stylish, award-winning
Cumulus Inc in Flinders Lane, before taking the train out
to Flemington Racecourse.
ENJOY THE DAY
Make the most of your Melbourne Cup Day experience by
booking a hospitality package in The Precinct, positioned
on Flemington’s front lawn and perfectly placed for
people watching and all the racing action.
EVENT STATS
First run in 1861, the Melbourne Cup record is held by
Kingston Rule, who won in a time of 3:16.30 in 1993.
AFTER THE EVENT
Continue the party atmosphere with dinner and live music
at the Botanical, a stone’s throw from the Royal Botanic
Gardens in South Yarra.
(November 11). And, just like Royal
Ascot or the Grand National at Aintree,
Melbourne Cup Carnival promises so
much more than elite sporting action.
With AUS$6.2 million at stake in prize
money, and an 18-carat solid-gold
trophy valued at AUS$175,000, the
Melbourne Cup itself boasts the richest
prize in Australian sport: it’s hardly
surprising, then, that this spectacle
attracts the great and good of
Australian society.
Well heeled crowds flock to
Flemington – just six kilometres
northwest of Melbourne’s CBD – to see
the best staying handicap race in the
world, run over a 3,200-metre track that
promises breathtaking prowess and
dazzling drama along the way. Not for
nothing has the Melbourne Cup
become known as ‘the race that stops
a nation’: nearly all Australians down
tools to watch the spectacle on a
spring afternoon.
It’s also one of the biggest days in the
social calendar, when a crowd of
100,000 put on their finery and parade
for the cameras. It’s a chance for A-list
celebrities to mingle with the fashion
crowd and familiar faces from the world
of sport: previous years have seen the
likes of Sarah Jessica Parker, Elizabeth
Hurley, the late Diana, Princess of
Wales, Eva Longoria, Sir Richard
Branson and Naomi Campbell enjoying
the lavish hospitality in the exclusive
invite-only Birdcage enclosure.
In fact, so ubiquitous is Melbourne
Cup Day to Victorians, it’s an official
public holiday so locals can enjoy the
carnival atmosphere that goes hand in
hand with the event that puts them in
the sporting spotlight.
On the day preceding the race,
Melbourne’s streets are closed for a
colourful parade featuring the
participating trainers and jockeys,
watched by thousands. Why not join in
the fun this year?
visitmelbourne.com
Not for
nothing has
the Melbourne
Cup become
known as ‘the
race that stops
a nation’
● Less than an hour from
Melbourne discover the delights
of the Mornington Peninsula,
where relaxed living is the order
of the day. Don’t miss the chance
to enjoy a restorative soak in the
naturally heated geothermal
waters of Peninsula Hot Springs:
choose from public pools or
a more tranquil and intimate
experience in a private outdoor
mineral spring bath.
Foodies will love the opportunity
to sample fresh fare on a local
produce trail, meeting farmers,
growers and producers, browsing
markets and sitting down to
a meal prepared with flair by
acclaimed chefs. The peninsula
also boasts celebrated regional
Pinot Noir and cool-climate
Chardonnay, with newer regional
varietals, including Pinot Grigio,
Pinot Gris and Shiraz achieving
growing recognition.
Why not try a winery tour with
a difference? A horseback tour
offers the chance to see the
region from a different vantage
point, while sampling the flavours
of the terroir along the way.
If you’re a nature lover, discover
almost-extinct native animals
at Moonlit Sanctuary or swim
alongside wild dolphins and seals
off Sorrento on the southernmost
point of Port Philip Bay.
10 FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM
FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM 11
DECEMBER 26-30, 2017
THE ASHES
BEYOND SPORT
For cricket fans, there’s no better way to spend
Christmas week than watching England play Australia
for The Ashes in the Boxing Day Test at the MCG
K
nown affectionately to locals
as ‘the G’, Melbourne Cricket
Ground was first built as a
wooden members’ grandstand in
1853 and has evolved to become the
largest stadium in the southern
hemisphere and the tenth largest in
the world, with a capacity of over
100,000. Playing host to the first ever
Test match, played between Australia
and England in 1877, the MCG is
hallowed not only by cricket fans but in
HALLOWED
GROUND:
The fourth Test in
the 2017 Ashes
series is slated for
MCG, above; iconic
moments for
players, opposite,
top, and fans, below
wider sporting circles. Today, the
annual Boxing Day Test match is one
of the most popular sporting events in
Australia, and when The Ashes are at
stake, it’s one of the most coveted
tickets in world sport.
Why not join tens of thousands of fans
at the fourth Test in the 2017 series, as
this great sporting contest returns to
Melbourne’s sporting mecca and the
unforgettable atmosphere of this iconic
ground? Nestling in the heart of the
MATCH DAY
START THE DAY
Set yourself up for a day in the
MCG stands by tucking into a
hearty breakfast at Top Paddock
in Church Steet, where their
signature morning meal features
chorizo, poached eggs, pickled
onion, Adelaide green tomatoes
and relish on toast.
ENJOY THE DAY
Get more out of your time at
‘the G’ by booking a
behind-the-scenes tour prior to
your visit. See the famous MCC
Long Room and Library for
yourself, and discover the venue
from the players’ perspective,
with a peek inside the changing
rooms and the cricketers’
viewing room. The on-site
National Sports Museum is also
worth exploring, showcasing
memorabilia from numerous
sports, including cricket, golf,
Rugby Union, tennis, cycling,
Australian football and more.
EVENT STATS
Between 1942 and 1945, the
Commonwealth Government
requisitioned the MCG for military
purposes, with over 200,000
personnel from the US Army Air
Force, the Royal Australian Air
Force and the US Marine Corps
regarding it as a home away from
home during that time.
AFTER THE EVENT
Enjoy the convivial all-day and
post-match atmosphere in one of
the MCG’s contemporary cafés
and bars, including the Lock Up
Bar within the old stadium police
cells in the Southern Stand, once
used to manage troublesome
patrons at events.
CBD, it’s easy and quick to reach by
foot or on public transport from
anywhere in or around the city, making
the journey a civilised experience that’s
part of a great day out.
As England make their bid to retain
the Ashes, apply your suncream, grab
your hat and bask in the glory of a
Victorian summer day to watch two
historic sporting rivals take to the
crease. Arrive early for the full
experience: by 10am the noise rising
from the tiered spectator stands within
the MCG cauldron is astounding. And,
whatever the outcome, there’s nothing
quite like spending your Boxing Day
witnessing this sporting war on the
wicket first hand.
visitmelbourne.com
The noise
rising from
the tiered
spectator
stands within
the MCG
cauldron is
astounding
● Around 100 miles southeast of
Melbourne, Wilsons Promontory,
commonly known as The Prom, is
Australia’s southernmost national
park and the perfect antidote to
the buzz of Boxing Day at the MCG.
Home to kangaroos, wallabies,
wombats and seals, plus
approximately 180 species of
birds, The Prom boasts beautiful
hiking routes and cycling trails,
and is a popular holiday
destination for locals.
The wider region of Gippsland
offers vast stretches of unspoiled
beaches, lakes and mountains,
with a leisurely lakes cruise being
an idyllic way to while away the
hours and see the spectacular
landscape. There are currently only
20 or so residents living in the
quiet mountainside town of
Walhalla, once one of Australia’s
richest, thanks to a 3km seam of
gold running through it, but you
can explore the frozen-in-time
hotels, shops and churches and
imagine what it was like when
4,000 or so people called it home.
12 FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM
FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM 13
GAME, SET
AND MATCH:
The Rod Laver
Arena, opposite,
provides a
breathtaking
setting for key
matches, whether
at sundown, left, or
in the heat of the
afternoon, below
DECEMBER 15-28, 2017
THE AUSTRALIAN OPEN
Join the world’s elite tennis players as they head to Melbourne for the initial
Grand Slam of 2018, and see the thrills and spills of the Australian Open at first hand
MATCH DAY
START THE DAY
Fancy starting your day with beetroot fritters with cured
trout and horseradish? Or how about a chocolate
buttermilk pancake, poached pear, banoffee, caramel and
vanilla mascarpone? A fabulous range of delicious classic
and more interesting gourmet breakfast treats are on offer
at Arbory Bar & Eatery in Flinders Walk.
ENJOY THE DAY
There’s a range of restaurants on site at Melbourne Park, so
you can enjoy delicious fare without having to miss any of
the on-court action. Choose from Billie Chu, Cucina di
Casa, Estelle Bistro or the Laneway Club.
EVENT STATS
Almost 400 ball kids are involved in the tournament,
selected from over 2,500 applicants.
AFTER THE EVENT
Head to the dark-panelled bar at Eau de Vie in Malthouse
Lane and partake in an elegant house cocktail, prepared by
be-gloved, goggle-wearing bartenders using liquid
nitrogen, or choose from their selection of more than
250 whiskies. Sit down for their acclaimed degustation
dinner in The Library, complete with cocktail pairings.
A
fter losing Novak Djokovic and
Andy Murray in week one,
leading to an epic men’s final
between Roger Federer and Rafa
Nadal, plus a spectacular all-Williams
women’s final, the 2017 Australian
Open championship has gone down in
sporting legend. For tennis fans, it
showcased some of the game’s finest,
demonstrating that experience
sometimes trumps youthful energy,
while in wider circles, the tournament
highlighted the emotional thrill that
accompanies a triumphant comeback
of one of sport’s greats.
So, why not be part of what is sure to
be more exhilarating action at the 2018
Australian Open and join the world’s
leading players in Melbourne for this
first Grand Slam event of the year?
Organised in a range of venues within
Melbourne Park, the key matches take
place at the Rod Laver Arena, with
reserved seating for around 15,000 fans
and a closing roof. The Margaret Court
Arena is the equivalent of Wimbledon’s
No 1 Court, also with reserved seating,
while the Hisense Arena and outside
courts are on a first-come, first-served
seating basis on match days.
Treat yourself to a hospitality
package to enjoy fine dining and VIP
access, or simply buy a ground pass
and opt in to a variety of matches
throughout your day at this exciting
sporting spectacular.
Alongside the tennis, there’s
Open Sessions live music at the
free-to-enter Australian Open Festival,
where on-court action is shown live on
giant screens, plus the Ballpark, a
children’s entertainment zone featuring
a mini theme park and family-friendly
food options.
visitmelbourne.com
The
tournament
highlighted
the emotional
thrill that
accompanies
a triumphant
comeback
of one of
sport’s greats
BEYOND SPORT
● After the exhausting rallies
at the Rod Laver Arena, head an
hour out of Melbourne to the
Yarra Valley to discover a slower
pace of life, where vast vineyards
stretch out to the horizon and
invite you to step behind the
cellar door and meet Victoria’s
renowned winemakers.
Relax on a leisurely ride on
the Puffing Billy Steam Train
or take to the dawn skies in
a hot-air balloon and see the
gently undulating landscape
from a different perspective,
then descend to indulge in a
delicious brunch prepared from
fresh local produce. If you prefer
to earn your fare, hike through
lush tree ferns and forests in
the Dandenong Ranges, or visit
Healesville Sanctuary, where you
can participate in the world’s first
‘Wade with platypus’ experience
– a treat not to be missed!
14 FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM
FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM 15
MARCH 2018
THE AUSTRALIAN
GRAND PRIX
BEYOND SPORT
Take the your seat at Melbourne’s Albert Park next March,
where the world’s elite drivers continue their bid for the 2018
Championship. It is, as they say locally, ‘a great place for a race’
T
he noise. The smells. The
drama. Formula 1 is one of the
most exhilarating spectacles in
the sporting calendar, and nothing
comes close to being there yourself to
experience the unique atmosphere of
race day at first hand. And where
better to enjoy Formula 1 than in the
sporting capital of Australia? From
those electrifying few seconds in the
pits, when engineers scramble to
change tyres and add fuel faster than
most of us do our seatbelts up, to the
heart-stopping moments when a
result-changing decision to overtake
adds drama the race, it’s a thrilling ride
– and that’s just for the spectators.
Albert Park, the circuit that has
hosted the Australian Grand Prix since
1996, features the magnificent
backdrop of the Melbourne skyline
and is set in beautifully maintained
grassland. It is a pleasure to walk
around, making even the most basic
general admission ticket appealing if
you simply want to soak up the
RACE DAY
START THE DAY
Fuel your day at Albert Park with a delicious brunch at
The Petty Officer in Victoria Avenue, where artisan coffee
accompanies a range of mouthwatering breakfasts.
ENJOY THE DAY
The Grandstands at Albert Park are named after legendary
Formula 1 drivers: Fangio, Schumacher, Prost, Senna, Piquet,
Brabham and Moss, to name just a few, plus, of course,
Webber, after national hero Mark Webber. Premium seating is
under cover – not just to shelter from rain, but beating sun, too.
EVENT STATS
The area around the circuit was designated a public park in
1864 and named to honour Queen Victoria’s consort, Prince
Albert, and the Grand Prix circuit is run on 5.3 kilometres of
public roads around the lake within the park. Drivers complete
58 laps of the circuit in a race that covers 307.58 kilometres.
AFTER THE EVENT
After a rousing day at the race track, head out for a night on
the town at St Kilda Beach. Order a pizza, oysters or fish and
chips and cocktails at relaxed beachfront hangout Republica,
or enjoy more sophisticated dining at sleek new venue
Captain Baxter, with an open-air deck for pre- or post-dinner
drinks. The Vineyard is something of an institution in St Kilda,
and features regular live entertainment, DJs and dancing.
buzzing atmosphere alongside
100,000 or so other spectators. Or, if
you prefer to take a seat, there are
numerous grandstands, particularly at
the start and finish lines, with various
tiers of ticket prices and multi-day
passes available to watch qualifying
rounds on the Friday and Saturday.
Of course, the Grand Prix experience
doesn’t stop once the winner has
popped their Champagne cork on the
rostrum and sprayed the crowds:
there’s a vast choice of food and drink
options, ranging from takeout to
gourmet fare, plus the high-octane
glamour you’d expect from one of the
key dates in the social calendar, with
live music and entertainment, including
international keynote acts, to keep the
atmosphere alive well into the evening.
visitmelbourne.com
PETROLHEAD
HEAVEN:
Albert Park,
opposite, provides
the circuit for
thrilling F1 races,
above, and
triumphant victory
laps, below
It’s a thrilling
ride – and
that’s just
for the
spectators
● Just 90 minutes’ drive from
Melbourne, Phillip Island offers the
chance to see some of Australia’s
unique wildlife in its natural
habitat, while enjoying pristine
white beaches and some of the
best surfing in Australia. It’s home
to the world-renowned Penguin
Parade, and you’ll have the chance
to see the spine-tingling sight
of these characterful creatures
waddling from the water back to
their burrows on Summerland
Beach, at dusk.
Join a wildlife cruise to visit a
colony of 16,000 fur seals in their
natural habitat, or wander among
the treetops and discover what
life is like for some of Australia’s
famed marsupials at the Koala
Conservation Centre.
Thrill seekers can buckle up for
an adrenaline-fuelled ride around
the Phillip Island Grand Prix Circuit,
and ride in go-karts on a
scaled-down 750-metre replica of
the renowned track – or simply
opt for a guided tour for exclusive
access to the Pit Lane, Race Control
and the winner’s podium.
16 FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM
FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM 17
MORE
SPORTING
HIGHLIGHTS…
Melbourne is truly the
sporting capital of
Australia throughout
the year: from cycling
and hockey to
sailing and surfing,
there’s something
to suit everyone
S
ports fans will always feel at
home in Melbourne, where
locals are passionate about all
sports, from Aussie Rules football to
water sports and everything in
between. In fact, sport is an intrinsic
part of everyday life in Victoria, and
you’ll have the chance to participate in
or spectate at a variety of sporting
pastimes and events during a holiday in
this beautiful part of Australia.
If you’re planning on spending
Christmas and New Year in Melbourne,
seize the opportunity to witness the
magnificent spectacle of the Volvo
Ocean Race making a stop in Australia
for the first time in more than a decade.
With the participants setting sail from
Alicante in Spain on October 22, the
longest professional sporting event
in the world this year features three
times more Southern Ocean sailing
than in recent years, with a tough
6,300-nautical-mile leg from Cape
Town to Melbourne sure to provide a
Locals are
passionate
about all
sports, from
hockey
to water
sports and
everything
in between
dramatic finish – predicted to be on
Christmas Day. Melbourne will host a
week-long stopover, with an impressive
Race Village, before the fleet leave on
Leg 4 to Hong Kong on January 2,
2018, continuing their passage on the
gruelling 45,000-nautical-mile
round-the-world route.
First staged in 2015, the Cadel Evans
Great Ocean Road Race was the first
event of its kind in Australia, inspired by
BEYOND SPORT
the prestigious European ‘Spring
Classic’ cycling events and named after
Australia’s only Tour de France winner.
Attracting the world’s elite cyclists, this
weekend festival of racing delivers
thrilling, intense competition in one
of the most spectacular locations on
the planet. The UCI WorldTour Elite
Men’s Race will be held on Sunday,
January 28, 2018, with the chance to
line the route and cheer the world’s best
teams as they race from Geelong’s
waterfront along a ribbon of stunning
coastline to Bell’s Beach.
In addition, there’s the chance to
participate in the People’s Ride on one
of two spectacular courses – 111km
and 65km – experiencing at first hand
the exhilarating nature of road racing
along this amazing coastline.
The Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix
will see the world’s best riders return
to Phillip Island to compete from
October 20 to 22, 2017, with world
champion Marc Marquez and crowd
favourite Valentino Rossi bidding for the
title, reaching speeds of up to 344km/h.
Also known as ‘Aussie Rules’, AFL
(Australian Football League) is the sport
of choice for Victorians throughout the
winter and their passion for the game is
infectious – even if you don’t
understand the rules. If you can get a
ticket for the AFL Grand Final at the
MCG on September 30, snap it up, or
find a sports bar and watch it with locals
to soak up the atmosphere.
Whatever your sporting preferences,
Melbourne is the ultimate destination
for an action-packed holiday.
visitmelbourne.com
AUSSIE ACTION:
The Cadel Evans
Great Ocean Road
Race, opposite,
above, Australian
Motorcycle Grand
Prix, opposite,
below, and the
International
Hockey Festival
2017, above, are
just some of the
host of sporting
events on offer
This festival of
racing delivers
thrilling
competition
in one of
the most
spectacular
locations on
the planet
● Escape the city and head off on
the ultimate road trip, seeing the
magnificent spectacle of the
12 Apostles rising from the
Southern Ocean on Victoria’s
dramatic coastline. A drive along
the Great Ocean Road is a
bucket-list adventure, with the
chance to explore lush rainforest,
beautiful waterfalls, deserted
beaches and stunning
national parks along the way.
Visit Australia’s National Surfing
Museum in Torquay and catch a
whale-watching trip, depending
on the timing of your visit:
October is the end of the season
to see southern right whales at
Logans Beach, while November
sees blue whales beginning to
arrive in Portland.
18 FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM
EXTEND YOUR STAY
AND HIT THE ROAD
Anyone who visits Melbourne falls for this
fabulous city and its people: why not extend
your holiday and get behind the wheel for
an exhilarating road trip, exploring the sights
of Victoria – and beyond?
M
elbourne is a compact
and colourful
metropolis, easy to
explore, but there’s something
liberating about heading
beyond the urban landscape on
a road trip. So, why not plan a
longer stay and the chance to
enjoy more of Victoria’s
incredible scenery and activities,
all packed into a relatively
compact area, meaning less
time behind the wheel and more
memory-making experiences?
GREAT SOUTHERN
TOURING ROUTE
Discover the sights of Victoria’s
south on a leisurely five-day trip,
taking in breathtaking coastline
as you wend your way along the
Great Ocean Road, and
beyond. Hang out at some of
Australia’s finest surf beaches
and spend the night in a
stunning eco lodge in the Otway
National Park. Spot emus,
koalas, kangaroos and
waterbirds at Tower Hill Game
Reserve, and explore the
charming fishing village of Port
Fairy, with its old whalers’
cottages and the chance to take
a boat trip to a seal colony.
Head inland to the Grampians,
with its dramatic landscape,
walking trails and indigenous
culture, before making your way
to the goldfields and the chance
to discover Sovereign Hill and
immerse yourself in the
excitement of Ballarat’s gold
rush days.
GO BEYOND MELBOURNE
Whether you have three, four,
five days or more, indulge your
senses close to Melbourne.
NEW SOUTH
WALES
SYDNEY
VICTORIA
GRAMPIANS
BALLARAT
MELBOURNE
GEELONG
METUNG
PORT FAIRY
PORT
CAMPBELL
PHILLIP
ISLAND
WILSONS
PROMONTORY
Great Southern Touring route
Go Beyond Melbourne
Melbourne to Sydney
WIN
FOLLOW YOUR SPORT TO MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA VISITMELBOURNE.COM 19
From swimming with the
dolphins and seals in Port
Phillip Bay to touring the
vineyards of the the Yarra
Valley, the Mornington and the
Bellarine Peninsulas, or
enjoying the nature and unique
wildlife on Phillip Island, you’ll
only be within a couple of hours
of the city. Try your hand at
surfing, take in a round of golf on
one of the many award-winning
courses, or simply follow the
produce trails where you can
sample farm-fresh fare, regional
wines at cellar doors and
delicious meals at some of
Australia’s finest restaurants.
Whether you’re a nature lover, a
thrill-seeker, a culture vulture,
an epicurean or simply seeking
some R&R, tailor your trip to
your own interests and take it at
your own pace.
MELBOURNE TO SYDNEY
COASTAL DRIVE
If you fancy making your way to
the sights of Sydney after a stay
in Melbourne, begin your
journey with a visit to the seal
colonies and little penguins of
Phillip Island, then continue
onwards to Wilson Promontory
and enjoy stunning walks and
magnificent scenery. Stop at
Metung and enjoy the
Gippsland Lakes, then continue
northwards into New South
Wales towards Sydney.
a fantastic holiday to
Melbourne to watch
England play Australia
Follow the England rugby team to the Rugby League World Cup opening
match v Australia on October 27, 2017 in Melbourne. Flights courtesy of
award-winning Qatar Airways. Enjoy three nights in Melbourne before
enjoying your own road trip in Victoria, with eight days’ camper-van hire,
provided courtesy of leading Australia holiday specialist Austravel.
THE PRIZE INCLUDES:
● Two Economy Class seats return to Melbourne from
the UK with Qatar Airways.
● Three nights’ 4* hotel accommodation in Melbourne
and eight days’ Apollo camper-van hire to explore the
surrounding area.
● Two Category A tickets to the opening match, including
access to the official RLWC function and corporate
hospitality on October 27, Australia v England.
● Two Captain’s Run training session
passes on October 26 at AAMI Park.
...AND THERE IS MORE
Once you have entered our exclusive
competition, you’ll then have the chance
to WIN one of TWO more AMAZING
HOLIDAYS in Melbourne and the
surrounding area, with tickets to the
2018 F1 GRAND PRIX or the
2018 AUSTRALIAN OPEN
FOR MORE DETAILS
GO TO THE LINK BELOW
TO ENTER and for full terms and conditions go to
dailymail.co.uk/visitmelbourne
Our A380.
It’s all in the detail
Experience the skies like never before on board our A380. From the
renowned hospitality of our award-winning crew, to the
state-of-the-art entertainment system and delicious gourmet dining,
the secret to unforgettable flying is simple - it’s all in the detail.
Visit qatarairways.com