ALL THAT GLITTERS IS STILL GOLD

Asolid-gold favourite for good reason, Australia’s GoldCoast has everything you need for a fantastic family getaway!

T here’s a big list of must-haves when you’re booking a family holiday. And the biggest musthave of all is that there has to be something for everyone! For the perfect combination of activities, food and accommodation options for families of all sizes, look no further than Queensland’s Gold Coast it’s just a quick flight over the ditch.

Along with classic attractions such as Dreamworld, WhiteWater World, Sea World, Movie World and Wet n’Wild (many of which have brand-new rides), there are a few Gold Coast gems you may not have heard about...

1 SANCTUARY... OF FUN

When the fantastic Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary was first opened ( by a beekeeper and flower grower), it was a simple bird sanctuary. Today, you’ll find not only the classic Aussie characters ( kangaroos, saltwater crocs, koalas and wombats) but also an adventure park with a high ropes course including 11 zip lines among the rainforest treetops!

If the littlies have tired legs, you can catch a train around the whole park. But before you leave, treat yourselves to an ice cream from the Sanctuary Cafe or, if you go on a Friday, stick around for the Sanctuary Markets in the Village Green.

2 QUICK SPLASH

Currumbin Rock Pools is a happening hinterland waterhole and a great place for the kids to cool off. On the drive there, you’ll see fruit stalls, gardens and cottages.

3 BURN SOME ENERGY!

Movie World is now home to the longest, fastest and highest rollercoaster in the Southern Hemisphere the DC Rivals HyperCoaster reaches speeds of up to 115km/h. Woop!

4 CHASING (SMALL) WATERFALLS

At Springbrook National Park, walk to Natural Bridge, where a waterfall leads underground to a glow- worm cave. In summer, keep your eyes open for fireflies!

5 YOUR SLICE OF PARADISE

Tallebudgera Creek has it all: shade, privacy and a small beach, perfect for the little ones. Swim, snorkel, kayak and stand- up paddleboard to your heart’s content and pack that picnic too.